Evidence supporting the use of: Angostura
For the health condition: Colic (adults)

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Synopsis

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

Angostura, derived from the bark of the Angostura tree (Angostura trifoliata), has a history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in South America, for various digestive complaints, including colic in adults. The use of Angostura bark as a bitter tonic and digestive aid dates back to the 19th century, where it was utilized to stimulate appetite and relieve symptoms associated with indigestion, flatulence, and stomach discomfort—symptoms often grouped under the term "colic." Early pharmacopeias and herbal texts mention its use for these purposes, and Angostura bitters, which contain extracts from the bark among other botanicals, became popular as a remedy for upset stomach and digestive disturbances. However, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Angostura for treating colic in adults is minimal. Modern clinical trials are lacking, and the pharmacological basis for its use is largely anecdotal or based on its bitter properties, which are generally understood to stimulate digestive secretions. Most references to its use for colic are historical, and there are no substantial, well-controlled studies confirming its effectiveness for this specific condition. As such, while Angostura has a traditional role in the management of digestive complaints, including adult colic, scientific validation remains weak, and its efficacy is rated low based on currently available evidence.

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