Evidence supporting the use of: Bitter Principles
For the health condition: Colic (adults)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bitter principles, also known as "bitters," refer to a range of plant-derived compounds with a characteristic bitter taste, commonly found in herbs such as gentian, wormwood, and dandelion. The use of bitter principles to treat or support colic in adults is primarily rooted in traditional medicine systems, particularly in European herbalism and other folk practices. Historically, bitters have been consumed as digestive aids, with the belief that their taste stimulates appetite, enhances digestive secretions, and helps alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort, including symptoms described as "colic" (which in adults generally refers to spasmodic abdominal pain or cramping).

Scientific evidence supporting the use of bitters specifically for adult colic is limited. While some studies suggest that bitter compounds can stimulate saliva and gastric juice production, improving digestion in general, there is a lack of robust clinical trials directly evaluating their efficacy for colic in adults. Most support comes from traditional texts and longstanding use rather than modern pharmacological validation. Therefore, while there is a plausible mechanism and a long tradition of use, high-quality evidence for effectiveness specifically in adult colic is modest.

In summary, the use of bitter principles for adult colic is justified mainly by traditional usage, with limited scientific validation. The evidence is rated 2, indicating some empirical and mechanistic support but lacking in direct, high-quality clinical evidence.

More about Bitter Principles
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Products containing Bitter Principles

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