Home Remedies for Colic
Knowing a few home remedies for colic When your infant cries inconsolably for hours can save the day. No one is really sure what causes colic, although one in five babies may develop this painful condition. There are many natural remedies and techniques that can help soothe the discomfort of colic.
An underdeveloped gastrointestinal tract is suspected as a cause for colic and often movement will bring relief. Many parents who have survived colic know that rolling your baby gently with the baby lying across your lap stomach down is helpful. Another gentle movement that helps is to lay the baby on his or her back and gently press the legs up, bending the knees to help the baby expel gas. Both of these gentle movements seem to eliminate some of the discomfort.
Since colic is a gastrointestinal issue, a number of the remedies for colic revolve feeding time.
- Position - Occasionally the position in which you feed your baby may account for some of the intestinal pressure that causes pain. Keeping the baby at a 30-degree angle is another of the many home remedies for colic.
- Formula Change - If you are not breastfeeding, consult your doctor if your baby develops the symptoms of colic. A change in formula may help.
- Breastfeeding mothers should make sure the baby latches on well and completely empties one breast before switching to the other.
- Burping the baby before you switch to the other breast will help expel any swallowed air.
Warmth is a very easy remedy for colic. Many of the home remedies for colic employ simple techniques that work for anyone with an upset stomach or gas pain.
Hot Water Bottle - Using an infant-sized hot water bottle filed with warm, not hot, water can be placed near the infant. Many times these hot water bottles come with a cover to keep the bottle contact with the baby. If yours does not have a cover, wrap the water bottle in a soft blanket, cloth or dishtowel. Lay the baby on its side and place the bottle near the abdomen. Laying the baby across your lap with the water bottle underneath is also a good position.
Keeping your baby close to your chest is a great way to keep their bellies warm. A front pack infant carrier that allows the baby’s abdomen to rest against your chest is a lifesaver for parents of colicky babies. The movement of your body works to expel gas and the heat from your body keeps the tummy warm.
Herbal Remedies for Colic
Several herbs have proven to be useful in treating colicky babies. It doesn’t matter what causes colic, finding a solution to this painful condition is important. An inconsolable baby may cause parents to become anxious which can lead to an even more upset baby. All of these herbs are available as dried teas or in liquid homeopathic form.
Catnip is an herb that calms the stomach. Chamomile, peppermint and ginger may also be beneficial. Just a teaspoon of warm tea made from these herbs will help lessen the discomfort.
A tested and safe herbal product for even newborn infants is iBaba made by Native Remedies. It is easy to use. Just place a few crystals on your baby's tongue and you should see results in a few minutes. It is free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives and is made in a FDA registered pharmaceutical facility. It also helps with teething pain.
Aromatherapy with herbs may also be of help. Mix three drops of chamomile oil with a teaspoon of almond oil and use it for a gentle tummy massage. If you don't have almond oil, you can use olive oil.
Parents have been soothing colicky babies with home remedies for centuries. Rest assured that these simple home remedies for colic will help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with colic.
