5 Home Remedies for Colic in Babies Every Indian Mom Swears By
If your baby cries inconsolably for hours, usually in the late evening, it is likely colic. While the exact cause of colic is unknown, it is often linked to a developing digestive system and trapped gas. In Indian households, before reaching for medicine, grandmothers often suggest these time-tested, natural remedies that provide quick relief.
1. Hing (Asafoetida) Paste
This is arguably the most famous Indian remedy for infant gas. Hing is a powerful anti-spasmodic that helps release trapped air from the intestines. Since a newborn's digestive system is delicate, the hing is applied topically rather than ingested.
- How to use: Mix a pinch of hing with a few drops of warm water or olive oil to make a paste. Apply it in a clockwise motion around the baby's navel (avoiding the navel itself). Let it dry for a few minutes, and you will often notice the baby passing gas shortly after.
2. Ajwain (Carom Seeds) Water for the Mother
In the Indian tradition, it is believed that what the breastfeeding mother eats directly impacts the baby’s digestion. Ajwain is known for its incredible digestive properties. By the mother consuming ajwain water, the medicinal benefits are passed to the baby through breast milk.
- How to use: Boil one teaspoon of ajwain seeds in a liter of water. The mother should sip this warm water throughout the day. This not only helps her own postpartum recovery but also keeps the baby’s tummy calm.
3. "Cycle" Leg Exercises
Physical movement is often the fastest way to help a baby move gas through their system. The "bicycle legs" movement is a staple in Indian baby massage (Malish) routines specifically to target colic.
- How to use: Lay your baby on their back and gently move their legs in a cycling motion toward their tummy. Alternatively, push both knees gently toward the stomach, hold for five seconds, and release. This physical compression helps move gas bubbles out of the colon.
4. Warm Compress (Sikaai)
Warmth is naturally soothing for muscle spasms and abdominal pain. A gentle warm compress can relax the baby's tummy muscles and provide instant comfort during a crying spell.
- How to use: Dip a soft cotton cloth in warm water, wring out the excess completely, and gently press it against the baby's tummy. Ensure the cloth is lukewarm and not hot. This is a great remedy to use right before bedtime to help the baby sleep better.
5. Fennel Seed (Saunf) Infusion
Saunf is widely used in India as an after-meal digestive. For babies who are slightly older (and upon consulting a pediatrician), a very weak fennel infusion can help relax the intestinal tract. For younger newborns, the mother can consume fennel tea instead.
- How to use: Boil half a teaspoon of fennel seeds in water, strain it thoroughly, and let it cool. If the baby is over 6 months, a few teaspoons of this water can be given. For younger babies, the breastfeeding mother should drink the tea to pass the soothing properties to the infant.
A Note of Caution
While these remedies are effective for standard gas and colic, always watch for "red flags." If your baby has a fever, is vomiting, has blood in their stool, or isn't gaining weight, consult your pediatrician immediately. Home remedies are meant to supplement care, not replace medical advice.
