Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Carbon, typically in the form of activated charcoal, has a long history of use in traditional and folk medicine for digestive complaints, including colic and gastrointestinal discomfort in adults. The rationale behind its use stems from its porous structure, which is believed to adsorb gases and toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby relieving symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, and abdominal pain commonly associated with colic. This traditional use is well-documented in various cultures and is reflected in some older pharmacopoeias and herbal compendia. However, scientific validation for the effectiveness of activated charcoal in treating adult colic is minimal. Most clinical studies evaluating activated charcoal for digestive issues have focused on its potential to reduce flatulence, with mixed results, and very few have addressed colic specifically. Major health authorities, such as the National Institutes of Health and European Medicines Agency, note insufficient evidence to recommend activated charcoal for routine management of colic or functional abdominal pain in adults. While it remains available over-the-counter for general digestive complaints, its use for colic is supported more by tradition and anecdotal reports than by robust scientific data.

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