.
Teething, a natural stage all infants go through, starts to occur around 5 to 6 months when a baby’s teeth grow and break through the skin. Some infants experience only mild discomfort while others suffer from sore and inflamed gums that can cause them pain.
.
Symptoms can include drooling, frequent crying, the inability to fall asleep, frequent waking and being generally cranky. The gums can be red and sore and the baby can display a tendency to repeatedly put its fingers into its mouth. It is also not uncommon for teething to be compounded by a mild fever, stomach upset and diarrhea, however, should your baby experience a high temperature it’s best to consult your health care practitioner right away.
.
With all that said, it doesn’t matter whether your baby is experiencing mild or severe discomfort…no, mother likes to see her baby in pain! However, instead of first reaching for the baby tylenol and other over-the-counter drugs, why not try some of these proven natural remedies first…
.
1. Homeopathic remedies
Using homeopathic remedies is a safe way to help teething infants who suffer terribly. There are many homeopathic teething combinations out there, however, I have typically found that using the right single remedy produces even better results. Here are some of the most popular single remedies along with their symptoms:
.
Chamomilla: This is by far the most popular teething remedy and should be considered first, unless some other remedy is obviously indicated. The baby is extremely whiny, irritable and impatient. The baby is aggravated by being touched and nothing seems to give it permanent relief (although being rocked and carried provides the baby some temporary relief). You can also typically find that one cheek is usually hot and red while the other is pale and cold.
Belladonna: This remedy can be given to a baby who experiences great pain that makes them restless and may lead them to kick, scream or bite. This baby will typically have really red gums and lips.
Calcarea phosphorica: Is a remedy typically used in thin children with delayed development of teeth. These babies are typically prone to diarrhea with much flatulence during teething.
Calcarea carbonica: This remedy is typically used in infants who begin teething late. The infants are usually plump, have sweaty heads, loose stools and can have a sour smell.
.
A note about dosing: use a 12C or 30ch (dissolved in water) 2-3 times/week during teething episodes.
.
2. Frozen things
Allowing your baby to chew on something cold will help alleviate the discomfort of emerging teeth. Use anything from frozen wash cloths and juice popsicles, to carrot and celery sticks. Something that many mom’s have found useful is freezing a wet, organic bamboo cloth then allowing it to thaw slightly (so it’s not rock hard) and letting their baby chew on it.
A word of caution when using carrots and celery: use only if your baby’s teeth have NOT appeared yet, otherwise, the veggies may present a chocking hazard.
.
3. Teethers and soft toys
Something you might want to consider using are teething rings and other soft toys. However, I would strongly encourage you to find a natural and BPA and PVC free toy to use as your baby will be putting it into its mouth! A favorite of many moms and babies is Vulli’s Sophie the Giraffe teether as it is made with 100% natural rubber and food paint.
.
4. For the nursing child
As a nursing mom, try drinking gentle anti-inflammatory and calming teas such as Chamomile. Not only will your baby benefit from the tea’s effects but, so will you.
.
5. Massage
If your baby is up for it, lightly rub their face, jaw and gums in a circular motion. Sometimes they may resist but other times it is just what they needed! You can also try wetting a cotton swab with 1 – 2 drops of chamomile oil and gently applying it to your babies gums. As mentioned above, Chamomile has a sedative, anti-spasmodic action and will help calm your babies nerves.