Natural home remedies for stomach pain & colic

When babies suffer from tummy ache or colic, it can be a real challenge for parents. Little ones often cry heartbreakingly, curl up their legs, and are difficult to calm. But fortunately, there are gentle and natural home remedies that can help. Here, you'll learn which methods have proven effective and how you can gently provide relief for your baby.

Why does my baby get a stomach ache?

Babies have an immature digestive system that needs to get used to food. Gas in the stomach, bloating, or even colic are common in the first few months. Causes can include:

• Swallowing air while breastfeeding or bottle drinking
• Intolerances to certain foods (e.g. cow's milk)
• Still immature intestinal flora
• Sensitivity to stress or overstimulation

Gentle home remedies for stomach ache

1. Heat – the miracle cure for the small belly

Heat helps relax muscles and relieve bloating. You can try the following:

• Place a warm cherry stone pillow on your stomach (not too hot!)
• A warm bath with soothing lavender or caraway extract
• Gentle abdominal massages with warm hands

2. Abdominal massage with gentle oils

A gentle massage can help stimulate digestion. The following are particularly suitable:

• Caraway oil or a mixture of fennel and chamomile oil
• Massage clockwise with gentle pressure to support bowel movement

3. Riding a bike with your legs

This exercise helps to release air from the stomach:

• Lay your baby on his back and move his legs gently as if riding a bicycle
• Gently push your legs towards your stomach to release gases

4. Fennel and caraway tea (only after consultation with the pediatrician)

Fennel and caraway tea have a relaxing and carminative effect. Breastfeeding mothers can drink it themselves to pass the benefits on to their breast milk. Bottle-fed babies can also be given a small amount of tea after consulting a doctor.

5. Carrying in an ergonomic baby carrier

Being carried often helps because the gentle movement and body warmth relieve abdominal pain. Carrying the baby in an upright position can especially help air escape.

When should I see a doctor?

Sometimes there's more to abdominal pain than just harmless flatulence. Consult a doctor if:

• Your baby cries extremely loudly and cannot be calmed down
• The stomach is hard and bloated
• Your baby has a fever or doesn't want to drink anymore
• Blood in the stool or severe diarrhea

Conclusion

Stomach aches in babies are often harmless, but still stressful for both child and parents. You can provide relief with gentle home remedies such as warmth, massage, carrying, and natural teas. Listen to your gut feeling and always seek medical advice when in doubt.

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