Synopsis

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

Bitter Principles, which refer to a class of plant-derived compounds characterized by their bitter taste (such as those found in gentian, dandelion, or artichoke), have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems for digestive complaints, including constipation. In traditional European herbal medicine, "bitters" are commonly administered to stimulate appetite and enhance digestive function. The rationale is that the bitterness stimulates receptors in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, triggering reflexes that increase saliva, gastric juice, and bile secretion, thereby promoting gut motility. This traditional use extends to children in some cultures, though with caution regarding dosage and safety.

However, the scientific evidence specifically supporting the use of Bitter Principles for treating constipation in children is limited. Most available studies focus on adults and pertain to general digestive stimulation rather than constipation per se. Clinical trials directly evaluating efficacy in pediatric constipation are lacking, and safety profiles for many bitter herbs in children are not well established. The mechanism by which bitters might help with constipation is plausible—by promoting digestion and mild laxative effects—but direct evidence is insufficient. Therefore, while the use is rooted in tradition, it is not strongly validated by modern clinical research, especially for pediatric populations.

More about Bitter Principles
More about Constipation (children)

Other ingredients used for Constipation (children)

Other health conditions supported by Bitter Principles

Products containing Bitter Principles