Baby colic is a condition experienced in newborn babies. It is characterized by periods of distress and crying for over three hours a day, three days per week, for over three consecutive weeks. It occurs in babies who are otherwise healthy and well-fed. 1 Baby colic is a condition that happens in 1 in 5 babies.2 For parents, it can be incredibly frustrating and stressful as nothing they do seems to work at calming their baby down and stopping their baby from this consistent crying. Typically there is nothing physically wrong with the baby and so other than sleep-loss, there isn’t much to worry about as it will pass.1
Baby colic causes are unknown. There are a number of possible baby colic causes, but nothing has yet been identified as a primary and direct cause. Researchers believe it may have something to do with allergies, lactose intolerance, digestive problems, anxious parents, and differences in how a baby is comforted and fed. 1 Other possible causes may be that the baby in utero was exposed to chemicals such as cigarette smoke. It may possibly be the baby’s reaction to breast milk or to formula and not being able to tolerate certain proteins.2 Gas and cramping in the digestive system may also be painful for the baby and so it causes them distress.3
Baby colic has a distinct set of signs and symptoms that set it apart from typical baby fussiness. Here are the baby colic signs and symptoms to be aware of:2,3
Baby colic eventually stops over time. However, there are some baby colic natural remedies that can help to relieve the distress for your baby.Here are the top baby colic cures for parents to try:
Olive Oil is the most effective natural product for Baby Colic CuresDecoded worldwide community recommends
Olive oil is a natural and safe home remedy to help treat baby colic. To reduce your baby’s cramping and pain use olive oil as a topical massage. Rub warmed olive oil onto your baby’s tummy and bottoms of feet. Place socks on and swaddle in warm blanket.
Fennel infused tea is a traditional remedy for baby colic. It helps to relax intestines and relieve cramping. Give fennel tea to your baby through a bottle. Breastfeeding mothers can eat fennel as well so that it passes through breast milk.
Mint leaves are a natural remedy for baby colic. Add 1 teaspoon of dried or fresh mint leaves to boiling water. Strain water and let cool. Give the mint water to your baby mixed in with formula.
Black cumin seeds infused in water are used as a natural baby colic treatment. Add 1 teaspoon of black cumin seeds to a cup of boiling water. Let it stand for 15 minutes then strain and let cool. Give the water to your baby through a bottle or mix some into formula.
Star anise infused tea has traditionally been used to treat baby colic. It is given to babies through a bottle or added to formula. Discuss this treatment with your pediatrician before giving your baby star anise tea.