Evidence supporting the use of: Chamomile (not specified)
For the health condition: Colic (children)

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Synopsis

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

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile) has a long history of traditional use for soothing digestive complaints, including colic in children. Its use is rooted in various traditional medicine systems, including European herbalism, where chamomile tea or extracts have been given to infants and young children to ease gastrointestinal discomfort, relieve gas, and promote relaxation. The traditional rationale is based on chamomile’s reputed antispasmodic, carminative, and mild sedative effects, which are believed to calm intestinal cramping and reduce fussiness associated with colic.

Scientific evidence for chamomile’s effectiveness in treating colic is limited but not entirely absent. Some small clinical studies and pilot trials have investigated herbal combinations that include chamomile (often with fennel, lemon balm, or other herbs) for infant colic. These have shown modest benefits in reducing crying time compared to placebo, but because chamomile was not used alone, its individual effect is difficult to isolate. There is some preclinical support for chamomile’s antispasmodic and calming effects on smooth muscle, which may partially explain its traditional use. However, large, high-quality randomized controlled trials of chamomile alone for infant colic are lacking, and concerns about safety (including allergic reactions and contamination) have been raised for use in very young children. Thus, while tradition strongly supports its use, scientific evidence is limited and warrants caution.

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