Antiscolic

/ænˈtɪskɒlɪk/ adjective

Definition

Effective against colic or intestinal pain and spasms.

Etymology

From anti- (against) + scolic (from Greek kolikos, related to colon). The term combines the opposition prefix with the medical term for intestinal spasms, creating an adjective describing treatments that relieve this condition.

Kelly Says

Before modern medicine, antiscolic remedies like fennel tea and ginger ale were lifelines for parents dealing with colicky babies. Modern pediatricians now know most colic is caused by an immature digestive system, not something to 'cure,' which is why you hear less about antiscolic treatments.

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