Synopsis

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

Colocynth (Citrullus colocynthis), also known as bitter apple, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda and Unani, for various hepatic and digestive ailments. In traditional practices, it has sometimes been employed as a remedy for liver disorders such as jaundice, based on its reputed purgative and anti-inflammatory properties. However, there is minimal scientific evidence to substantiate its efficacy or safety for treating jaundice in adults. The available literature consists mainly of ethnobotanical records and anecdotal reports rather than controlled clinical studies. In fact, the use of colocynth is risky due to its known toxicity; ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation, kidney damage, and even be potentially fatal in higher doses. Modern medical guidelines do not recommend colocynth for jaundice, and there are no robust clinical trials or pharmacological studies supporting its use for this condition. Therefore, while colocynth has a traditional association with the treatment of jaundice, the evidence base is extremely weak, and its use is not supported by contemporary scientific research.

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