Teething is an inevitable part of a baby’s development, but it can be a challenging time for both babies and parents.
While there are over-the-counter teething products available, many parents prefer natural remedies to ease their little one’s discomfort. In this article, we’ll explore safe and effective natural remedies for teething babies.
Understanding Teething
Before diving into the remedies, it’s essential to understand what happens during teething. Typically, a baby’s first tooth appears around six months of age, although it can vary.
Teething can be uncomfortable due to the pressure of the erupting tooth on the gums. This discomfort often leads to symptoms like drooling, irritability, swollen gums, and a strong urge to chew on things.
Natural Teething Remedies
- Chilled Teething Toys: Place teething toys, made of safe, BPA-free materials, in the refrigerator for a while (not the freezer). The coldness can help soothe sore gums when your baby chews on them.
- Frozen Washcloth: Wet a clean washcloth, twist it, and place it in the freezer for a short time. Once it’s cold but not frozen solid, give it to your baby to gnaw on. The texture can provide relief.
- Teething Rings: Silicone or wooden teething rings are great natural options. Ensure they’re designed for babies and free from harmful chemicals.
- Cooled Foods: Offer your baby chilled, soft foods like applesauce or yogurt. The coldness can temporarily numb the gums and provide relief. Ensure the food is age-appropriate and doesn’t pose a choking hazard.
- Rubbing Gums: Using a clean finger, gently rub your baby’s gums. This gentle pressure can alleviate discomfort. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before doing this.
- Amber Teething Necklaces: Some parents opt for amber teething necklaces, believing that the amber’s natural oils can have a soothing effect when worn close to the skin. However, always supervise your baby when wearing jewelry and be cautious about potential choking hazards.
- Homemade Teething Biscuits: You can make teething biscuits at home using simple ingredients like whole-grain flour and water. Always follow age-appropriate recipes and supervise your baby while they enjoy these treats.
- Chamomile Tea: Brew a weak chamomile tea and let it cool. Use a clean cloth to dab it on your baby’s gums for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Coconut Oil: Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your clean finger and gently massage it onto your baby’s gums. The mild flavor and soothing properties can help.
- Clove Oil: Dilute clove oil with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and apply a tiny amount to the gums. Clove has natural numbing properties, but use it sparingly and consult with a healthcare professional before trying it.
Safety Considerations
- Supervision: Always supervise your baby during teething remedies to ensure their safety.
- Avoid Honey: Never give honey to babies under one year old, as it can carry the risk of botulism.
- Dosage: If using herbal remedies or essential oils, follow recommended dosages carefully and consult with a healthcare provider.
- Consult a Pediatrician: If your baby’s teething symptoms are severe, prolonged, or accompanied by a fever or diarrhea, consult your pediatrician to rule out other underlying issues.
In Conclusion
Teething can be a challenging phase for both babies and parents, but natural remedies can help ease the discomfort without resorting to medication.
Experiment with these natural teething remedies to find what works best for your little one. Remember that every baby is unique, and providing comfort and care during this time is what matters most.
