Synopsis

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

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese and other Asian systems, for its gastrointestinal benefits, including the relief of constipation. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), jujube is considered to nourish the blood and improve digestive function, often being incorporated into herbal formulas to "moisten the intestines" and "regulate bowel movements," especially in children and the elderly. The fruit's high fiber content may contribute to its laxative effects, as dietary fiber is well-known to support regular bowel movements.

However, scientific evidence directly supporting jujube’s efficacy for pediatric constipation is relatively limited. Some preclinical studies suggest that extracts of jujube can increase intestinal motility and promote defecation in animal models, likely due to the presence of saponins, polysaccharides, and dietary fiber. Human clinical studies are scarce, especially in children, and most available research focuses on general digestive health or adult populations. Therefore, while traditional use is robust and the mechanism is plausible, the level of evidence from rigorous human trials remains modest. Jujube is generally considered safe, but its use for childhood constipation should be approached cautiously and ideally under professional supervision.

More about jujube
More about Constipation (children)

Other ingredients used for Constipation (children)

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