No, garlic is not recommended for treating jaundice, especially in newborns.
Based on the provided research, garlic has no beneficial effect on the treatment of neonatal jaundice. In fact, the study indicates that garlic might even be harmful, potentially leading to prolonged phototherapy and a longer hospital stay for babies with jaundice.
Understanding the Research
The study's key findings are summarized below:
| Finding | Implication for Jaundice Treatment |
|---|---|
| Garlic has no beneficial effect. | It does not help reduce bilirubin levels, the cause of jaundice. |
| Garlic may cause prolonged phototherapy. | Newborns with jaundice who are given garlic may require more light therapy to treat their jaundice. |
| Garlic may lead to prolonged hospital stays. | Babies receiving garlic may require more time in the hospital to recover from jaundice. |
Why Garlic Isn't Recommended for Jaundice:
- Lack of Efficacy: The research clearly states that garlic does not help in treating jaundice.
- Potential Harm: There is evidence that garlic could prolong the treatment process.
- No Proven Benefit: No scientific evidence indicates that garlic can alleviate jaundice symptoms.
Alternative Treatments for Jaundice:
Instead of using garlic, you should follow the advice of your healthcare provider who will likely recommend:
- Phototherapy: Using special blue lights to help break down bilirubin in the blood.
- Frequent Feedings: Breastfeeding or formula feeding helps the body clear bilirubin.
- Exchange Transfusion: In severe cases, this procedure replaces the baby's blood with fresh blood.
Key Takeaway:
Garlic is not a recommended treatment for jaundice. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate and effective treatment options.
