Evidence supporting the use of: Amber
For the health condition: Colic (children)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
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Amber, particularly in the form of amber teething necklaces, has a long-standing traditional use in various cultures as a remedy for infant discomfort, including colic. The belief is rooted in folk medicine, where it is thought that when amber is worn against the skin, succinic acid is released and absorbed into the body, providing analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting this mechanism. Succinic acid requires high temperatures to be released from amber—temperatures far exceeding those of human skin—making transdermal absorption implausible. Moreover, no clinical trials or systematic reviews have found any benefit of amber for treating colic in children. Medical organizations warn against the use of amber necklaces due to choking and strangulation hazards. Therefore, while amber's use is based on tradition and anecdotal reports, it lacks scientific validation or plausible biological mechanisms supporting its efficacy for colic. Parents are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for evidence-based treatments for colic rather than relying on traditional remedies like amber.

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