There are several natural remedies that may help soothe teething discomfort in babies without using medication:
-
Cold Teething Toys or Objects: Offer clean and chilled teething toys, teething rings, or a clean, cold washcloth for your baby to chew on. The cold sensation can help alleviate gum pain and provide relief.
-
Gentle Gum Massage: Using clean fingers, gently massage your baby's gums to provide comfort. Ensure your hands are clean to avoid any potential infections.
-
Chilled Foods: Offer chilled foods like applesauce or yogurt (if your baby is eating solids) to help numb sore gums. Ensure the food is age-appropriate and your baby can safely consume it.
-
Chilled Fruit or Vegetables: Offer cold slices of peeled and chilled fruits or vegetables (such as cucumber or banana) for your baby to gnaw on. Always supervise to prevent choking hazards.
-
Teething Biscuits or Rusks: Provide teething biscuits or rusks designed for babies to chew on. These are specially made to be gnawed on and can provide relief.
-
Amber Teething Necklaces: Some parents use amber teething necklaces, believing that the resin contains a natural analgesic (succinic acid) that may help with teething discomfort. However, ensure proper safety measures are followed, and necklaces are not worn during sleep or unattended times to prevent choking or strangulation hazards.
-
Distraction and Comfort: Offer extra cuddles, comfort, or distraction with soothing activities like singing, rocking, or playing to divert your baby's attention from the discomfort.
-
Chamomile Tea: Rubbing chamomile tea on the baby's gums using a clean finger or providing a chilled chamomile tea bag (after cooling) for them to gnaw on may offer relief due to its mild soothing properties. Ensure the tea bag is sealed and safe to use.
-
Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding: Nursing or offering a bottle can provide comfort to babies experiencing teething discomfort. The sucking action may help soothe sore gums.
Always supervise your baby during teething remedies and avoid anything that poses a choking hazard. If your baby experiences persistent discomfort, excessive irritability, fever, or any concerning symptoms, consult a pediatrician for further guidance or advice.