Chamomile:The Wonder Herb
I absolutely love this herb. When Brianna was a few weeks old she was crying every evening at the same time (characteristic of gas/colic). Our Pediatrician recommended .5oz of Chamomile Tea. She stopped crying the minute I gave it to her. I gave it to her anytime I saw signs of gassiness or discomfort. This herb worked wonders, no more crying, no more kicking her legs in pain. She was like a new baby, I couldn't believe how well this worked. I gave it to her very diluted, you don't want to make it too strong because your baby may reject it. Try giving it a little at a time to see how your baby tolerates it. Although I have never heard of any dangers, please check with your Pediatrician before you take any my advice.
Colic, gas, sore tummy,
Chamomile tea can soothe a colicky or gassy baby. Although colic has no identifiable cause, it can stem from gastrointestinal discomfort. Chamomile has long been a remedy for intestinal spasms so that's why it works great for colic. It has been used for centuries and has a long track record for safety. In one of two clinical trials published by the American Academy of Pediatrics "68 healthy term infants who had colic (2 to 8 weeks old) received either herbal tea (German chamomile, vervain, licorice, fennel, balm mint) or placebo tea (glucose, flavoring). Each infant was offered treatment with every bout of colic, up to 150 mL/dose, no more than three times a day. After 7 days of treatment, parents reported that the tea eliminated the colic in 57% of the infants, whereas placebo was helpful in only 26% (P<0.01). No adverse effects were noted in either group."
Better sleep
Chamomile is also known for its soothing and relaxing properties. It is used as a natural sleep aid. So not only will it sooth a gassy baby but help your baby relax. Babies need their sleep just as much as we do. This herb can help relax a inconsolable baby so both of you can be happy.
Teething
No need to use dangerous over the counter teething jells. The FDA issued a warning against the use of those products anyway. Chamomile is great for teething. Soak a clean washcloth in the tea and let your baby gnaw on it. The soaked wash cloth can also be frozen for an added benefit. It also does wonders for teething when given to drink. 1-2oz should be enough depending on the age of your baby. The relaxing property of the herb will help take the edge off the teething pain naturally.
Tip:
Buy a Sassy Strawberry or Grape Teether. You can put ice cubes in it, dip it in the chamomile tea and put it back in the freezer for a couple minutes. This works great for teething!
Others
Studies have also confirmed that Chamomile has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, anti-allergenic properties. But because I strongly suggest those types of serious conditions be investigated by your pediatrician, I will not even include the uses of Chamomile in such conditions. I do not advocate any home treatment of infections, rashes, or fevers etc. I'm just simply sharing the endless wonders of Chamomile with you.
