Colic is one of those conditions that, unfortunately, we really know very little about. For example, experts can’t even seem to agree about what it is that causes colic, much less how to treat it. Some experts believe that colic is caused by problems in the digestive tract. Other experts believe that colic has to do with having an immature nervous system. It may very well be that there are multiple causes of colic, or that colic can be caused by several things all at the same time. What makes this especially frustrating is that, while colic does not present a long-term danger to your child, the fact remains that colic can be very stressful on the entire household. Parents of a colicky baby often will experience a great deal of anxiety as they look, often in vain, for something to help their colicky baby.

Herbs are one method that parents have used to help their colicky babies. Herbs can be used for a couple of different purposes in helping a colicky baby. For example, herbs like fennel, ginger, and peppermint are thought to be able to help with digestion and with digestive issues. Herbs like chamomile, on the other hand, are thought to help relax a person, even a baby. Using herbs to help your colicky baby may require you to try a variety of different herbs or a variety of herbal products, until you are able to find specific herbs to help your colicky baby.

Gripe water has been another way that parents have used herbs to help their colicky babies. Gripe water is generally made up of several different ingredients, most of which are designed to help with gastrointestinal discomfort and gas. Gripe water will often contain fennel and ginger, for example. In addition to these herbs, gripe water may contain sodium bicarbonate to help relieve the colicky baby’s gas.

Some parents have chosen to use herbal teas to help their colicky babies. If you choose to use herbal teas to help your colicky baby, there are some tings to remember. First of all, make certain that the tea is no warmer than formula would be when you give it to your baby. Second, start your baby out with an ounce or so, to make sure that he or she doesn’t have a negative reaction. If your baby doesn’t react negatively to the tea, you can give between four and six ounces of herbal tea in a day. Giving more than this runs the risk that your baby will drink too much tea, and then not be hungry when it comes time to have breast milk or formula. Keep in mind that the effect of herbal teas on infants has not been studied. It is probably worth discussing with your health care provider before giving herbal teas to help with colic.

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