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

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Synopsis

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

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) has a long history in traditional medicine, particularly in Europe and the Mediterranean regions, where it has been used for various digestive complaints, including colic in children. Traditional herbalists often recommended parsley tea or infusions as a mild carminative—an agent thought to relieve flatulence and intestinal discomfort. The rationale was that parsley contains volatile oils such as apiol and myristicin, which were believed to possess antispasmodic properties, potentially easing intestinal spasms associated with colic.

However, scientific evidence to substantiate the efficacy and safety of parsley for treating colic in children is lacking. Most available data are anecdotal or derived from broader uses in folk medicine rather than controlled clinical studies. No high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically address parsley's impact on infantile colic. Modern pediatric practice does not endorse parsley for this use, and safety concerns exist, especially regarding the use of herbal remedies in infants, given the potential for allergic reactions and the presence of compounds that may not be suitable for young children.

In summary, while parsley’s use for colic is grounded in tradition, the evidence supporting its effectiveness is minimal, and its application for this purpose in children should be approached with caution.

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