Skip Herbal Remedies: Safer Ways to Soothe a Baby With Colic

Long bouts of crying can leave parents anxious during a baby’s first months, particularly when feeding, changing and comforting seem to make little difference. Colic may be one explanation, but persistent crying should not automatically be attributed to it.

Gentle soothing can help a distressed infant settle. Parents can try holding the baby close, rocking gently or reducing noise and bright light. Burping during and after feeds may also ease discomfort from swallowed air.

Herbal drinks and home remedies are not a safe substitute for medical advice. Parents should avoid giving them to infants without guidance from a healthcare professional and continue normal breast milk or formula feeds.

If the crying becomes overwhelming, caregivers can place the baby on their back in a safe, empty cot and take a brief break or ask someone for support. A baby must never be shaken.

Medical advice is important if crying persists or the baby seems unwell. Fever, difficulty breathing, repeated vomiting, blood in the stool, poor feeding or fewer wet nappies call for prompt assessment rather than treatment as colic at home.