Natural Remedies for Colic Every Parent Should Know

Few things tug at a parent’s heartstrings like the inconsolable cries of a baby with colic. Those long, tear-filled nights can leave you feeling helpless, wondering how to ease your baby’s discomfort and bring peace to your household. If you’re navigating the challenges of colic, you’re not alone—and there’s hope. Many parents have found relief through simple, natural remedies for colic in babies that soothe their little ones and restore calm.

As a mom of three and a Labor and Delivery nurse, I know how overwhelming it can be to comfort a baby who won’t stop crying despite your best efforts. The good news is that colic is a common phase, and there are gentle, effective strategies that can help. From soothing teas to tummy massages, these remedies can ease your baby’s discomfort and give you the confidence to handle even the toughest colic episodes.

In this post, we’ll explore the causes of colic, natural remedies to try, and lifestyle adjustments that can make a difference. And for those moments when you need extra support, my course, Momming Like You Mean It – Mastering The Newborn Stage, offers a wealth of tools and techniques to help you care for your baby with confidence. Let’s dive into the world of colic relief and start soothing your little one today!

Wondering who I am and why I'm giving advice? I'm a mom of three and a labor and delivery nurse. I've assisted in thousands of births and helped countless women on their journey to an empowered motherhood journey. I want to bring my knowledge and genuine mom advice to you. I'm so glad you're here. If you're looking for someone to talk to or lean on in this new mom life, I'm your girl.

Please note: The views on this website are personal opinions only and do not represent the opinions or policies of any provider or institution that I am affiliated with. I am not giving medical advice. Information on this website is not intended to diagnose, or treat any form of any disease. This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. I am only telling you what my experiences are. Please refer to my Disclaimer Page for more information.

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Understanding Colic

Colic is a term that strikes fear into the hearts of many new parents, but understanding what it is and why it happens can help you approach it with confidence. While the exact cause of colic remains a mystery, recognizing its symptoms and debunking common misconceptions can empower you to support your baby through this challenging phase.

What Is Colic?

Colic is characterized by excessive, inconsolable crying in an otherwise healthy baby. It typically begins within the first few weeks of life and peaks around 6 weeks, gradually improving by 3 to 4 months.

The hallmark of colic is the “rule of threes”:

Crying for more than 3 hours a day,
At least 3 days a week,
For 3 weeks or more.

Unlike typical fussiness, colic crying can be intense and difficult to soothe, often occurring at the same time each day—commonly in the late afternoon or evening.

What Causes Colic?

The exact cause of colic isn’t fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute:

Digestive Issues: Gas or immature digestion may lead to abdominal discomfort.
Overstimulation: Newborns are highly sensitive to their environment, and too much stimulation can overwhelm their developing nervous system.
Feeding Techniques: Swallowing air during feedings may contribute to gas and colic symptoms.

It’s also worth noting that colic is not caused by poor parenting or something you’ve done wrong. While it’s a challenging phase, it’s a normal part of many babies’ development.

Understanding colic is the first step toward managing it effectively. In the next section, we’ll explore gentle and effective natural remedies for colic in babies that can help soothe your little one and bring relief to your family.

Effective Natural Remedies for Colic

When your baby is struggling with colic, natural remedies can provide gentle and effective relief without the use of medications. These time-tested strategies address common colic triggers, such as gas and overstimulation, while promoting overall comfort and well-being. Here are some of the best natural remedies for colic in babies to try.

1. Herbal Teas

Herbal teas like chamomile or fennel can work wonders for easing digestive discomfort in colicky babies.

How It Works: Chamomile has calming properties that soothe the nervous system, while fennel aids digestion and helps relieve gas.
How to Use: For breastfeeding moms, drinking a cup of chamomile or fennel tea can pass its soothing benefits to your baby through your milk. If your baby is formula-fed, consult your pediatrician about giving small, diluted amounts of tea directly. When my first baby had acid reflux that caused colic-like symptoms, she had us give a few mls of Chamomile tea (cooled, of course) directly into his mouth with a syringe a couple of times a day. It worked really well and I was so thankful that my doctor approved it for our baby. Definitely talk to yours about it.
Pro Tip: Always use baby-safe, caffeine-free teas and introduce them gradually to ensure they’re well-tolerated.

2. Probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria that support gut health and may reduce colic symptoms by improving digestion.

How It Works: Studies suggest that certain strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus reuteri, can balance your baby’s gut microbiome, reducing gas and discomfort.
How to Use: Probiotic drops are easy to administer and can be added to your baby’s bottle or applied directly to their tongue. Choose a product specifically designed for infants, and consult your pediatrician before starting.
Pro Tip: Consistency is key—give probiotics daily to see the best results over time.

3. Gripe Water / Colic Calm

Gripe water is a natural remedy that combines soothing herbs like ginger and fennel to relieve colic symptoms. But I prefer Colic Calm which is a Gripe water alternative that provides gentle, fast acting relief that works in minutes and helps to soothe gas, colic, upset stomach, reflux and hiccups. What I love about it is that the dosage is so small compared to other Gripe Water brands and takes up much less space in the stomach for the same effect. Not to mention it's natural active ingredients, no artificial colors or flavors, no sugar, simethicone, wheat, gluten, soy, dairy, or animal products.

How It Works: The ingredients in gripe water work together to reduce gas, ease stomach discomfort, and calm your baby.
How to Use: Follow the dosing instructions on the product label, and only use gripe water formulated for infants. Be sure to check for alcohol-free and preservative-free options.
Pro Tip: If your baby doesn’t respond well to gripe water, don’t force it—other remedies like Colic Calm may be more effective.

4. Warm Baths

A warm bath can be incredibly soothing for a colicky baby, providing both physical and emotional comfort.

How It Works: The warm water relaxes your baby’s muscles and can help release trapped gas.
How to Use: Fill the baby bathtub with lukewarm water, ensuring it’s not too hot, and gently cradle your baby while they soak. Adding a few drops of lavender oil (safe for babies) can enhance the calming effect.
Pro Tip: Follow up with skin-to-skin contact after the bath to maximize the soothing benefits.

5. Tummy Massage

Gentle abdominal massages can relieve gas and improve digestion, making them an excellent tool for managing colic.

How It Works: Massaging your baby’s tummy helps move trapped air through their digestive system, reducing discomfort.
How to Use: Use your fingertips to make small, clockwise circles on your baby’s abdomen. Combine this with bicycling their legs to help release gas.
Pro Tip: Perform the massage during a calm moment, such as after a warm bath, for the best results.

6. Baby Wearing

Baby wearing is a wonderful natural remedy for colic that combines the benefits of closeness, movement, and comfort to soothe your little one.

How It Works: Being held close in a baby carrier mimics the snug, secure feeling of the womb. The gentle motion as you move around can help calm your baby, reduce crying, and even alleviate gas discomfort.
How to Use: Choose a baby carrier that supports your baby’s head and neck and keeps them in an ergonomic position. Place your baby in the carrier during fussy periods or when they show signs of discomfort. Walk around the house, gently sway, or step outside for a calming stroll.
Pro Tip: Skin-to-skin contact during baby wearing amplifies the soothing effects and promotes bonding, making it a perfect remedy for colicky babies.

Baby wearing not only provides relief for your baby but also gives you the freedom to move around and get things done while keeping them close and comforted.

These six natural remedies—herbal teas, probiotics, gripe water, warm baths, tummy massage, and baby wearing—offer gentle, effective ways to alleviate colic symptoms and bring comfort to your baby. In the next section, we’ll discuss lifestyle adjustments that can help prevent colic episodes and support your baby’s overall well-being. And for even more strategies to soothe and care for your little one, my course, Momming Like You Mean It – Mastering The Newborn Stage, is a comprehensive resource designed to help you navigate the newborn stage with confidence.

Lifestyle Adjustments to Help Prevent Colic

While natural remedies can help soothe colic symptoms, certain lifestyle adjustments can reduce the likelihood of colic episodes and support your baby’s overall comfort. Small changes in feeding techniques, daily routines, and parental habits can make a big difference in managing colic. Here are some practical strategies to consider.

1. Feeding Techniques

Proper feeding techniques can minimize air intake during feedings, which is often a key trigger for colic.

Breastfeeding: Ensure your baby has a deep latch to reduce the amount of air they swallow while nursing.
Bottle Feeding: Use a slow-flow nipple and hold the bottle at an angle that keeps the milk flowing steadily without creating air bubbles. Pausing to burp your baby after every 1-2 ounces can also help.

These adjustments create a smoother feeding experience and help prevent discomfort caused by trapped gas.

2. Burping Practices

Burping your baby during and after feedings is a simple yet effective way to release trapped air and reduce colic.

During Feedings: Take regular breaks to burp your baby, especially if they seem fussy or are gulping milk quickly.
After Feedings: Hold your baby upright and use a gentle burping technique, such as patting their back or using a tummy-to-shoulder position.

Consistent burping habits can go a long way in preventing colic episodes and ensuring your baby feels more comfortable.

3. Dietary Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers

If you’re breastfeeding, your diet may impact your baby’s digestion. Some foods in your diet could contribute to colic symptoms, so it’s worth monitoring what you eat.

Common Triggers: Dairy, caffeine, spicy foods, and certain vegetables like broccoli or onions may cause gas or fussiness in some babies.
How to Adjust: If you suspect a particular food is affecting your baby, try eliminating it from your diet for a week and observe any changes in their behavior.

Remember, every baby is different, so dietary adjustments may not be necessary for all breastfeeding moms. Consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

4. Create a Calm Feeding Environment

Overstimulation during feedings can contribute to colic, so keeping the environment calm and focused can help.

Dim the Lights: A dimly lit room can reduce distractions and help your baby relax while feeding.
Limit Noise: Minimize background noise, such as televisions or loud conversations, to create a peaceful atmosphere.

A calm environment encourages a more relaxed feeding experience, reducing the chances of colic-related fussiness.

These lifestyle adjustments can complement natural remedies and help create a more comfortable routine for both you and your baby. By focusing on feeding techniques, consistent burping, and a soothing environment, you’re addressing potential triggers and setting the stage for a calmer, happier baby. In the next section, we’ll explore when it’s important to seek professional help for colic and how to identify signs that may require medical attention.

When to Seek Professional Help

While most cases of colic can be managed with natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments, there are times when it’s important to consult a pediatrician. Colic is typically harmless, but prolonged crying or other unusual symptoms could indicate an underlying medical issue that needs attention. Here’s what to look out for and when to seek professional help.

Signs That May Require Medical Attention

Colic crying often follows a predictable pattern, but if your baby’s behavior or symptoms seem unusual, it’s important to take note.

Persistent Crying Beyond the Expected Timeframe: If your baby continues to exhibit colic-like symptoms past 4-5 months of age, consult your pediatrician.
Refusal to Eat or Poor Weight Gain: Difficulty feeding or failure to gain weight as expected could indicate a feeding or digestion issue.
Changes in Stool or Vomiting: If your baby has blood in their stool, persistent vomiting, or other significant digestive issues, seek medical advice.
High Fever or Lethargy: These symptoms may indicate an infection or illness unrelated to colic and should be addressed immediately.

Always trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s better to err on the side of caution and consult your healthcare provider.

Supporting Parents Through Colic Challenges

Caring for a baby with colic can be an emotionally draining experience. The constant crying, sleepless nights, and feelings of helplessness can take a toll on even the most patient parents. While your baby’s comfort is a top priority, it’s equally important to take care of yourself during this challenging time. Here are some tips to help you manage stress and find support.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or even guilty when your baby is struggling with colic.

Why It’s Important: Suppressing your emotions can lead to burnout. Acknowledging how you feel helps you process your emotions and reminds you that you’re not alone in this experience.
How to Cope: Share your feelings with a trusted partner, friend, or family member. Talking about your challenges can provide relief and help you feel supported.

Remember, colic is not your fault. It’s a common phase that many babies go through, and your love and care are what matter most.

2. Prioritize Self-Care

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential for being the best parent you can be.

Get Rest: Sleep when your baby sleeps, and don’t hesitate to ask for help so you can catch up on rest. Even short breaks can make a big difference in your energy and mood.
Eat Well: Fuel your body with nutritious meals to maintain your energy levels. Hydration is also key, especially if you’re breastfeeding.
Take Breaks: Step away when you’re feeling overwhelmed. A few minutes of deep breathing, a quick walk, or even a shower can help you reset.

Building self-care into your routine allows you to recharge and approach parenting challenges with renewed patience.

3. Lean on Your Support System

You don’t have to navigate colic alone. Lean on the people in your life who are ready and willing to help.

Share Responsibilities: Partner with your spouse or a trusted caregiver to take turns soothing your baby.
Join a Community: Online or in-person parenting groups can provide a space to share experiences and gain advice from others who understand what you’re going through.
Consult Professionals: Reach out to your pediatrician or a lactation consultant for guidance. They can offer reassurance and practical tips tailored to your situation.

Having a strong support system makes it easier to handle the challenges of colic while staying connected to your own needs.

4. Equip Yourself with Knowledge

Sometimes, understanding what’s happening and having a plan can make the situation feel more manageable.

Learn Strategies: My course, Momming Like You Mean It – Mastering The Newborn Stage, offers practical advice for soothing your baby, managing colic, and building confidence in your parenting skills.
Set Realistic Expectations: Knowing that colic is temporary can help you stay hopeful. Most babies outgrow it by 3-4 months of age, so relief is on the horizon.

Empowering yourself with knowledge can help you feel more in control and better equipped to support your baby.

Parenting a colicky baby is challenging, but it’s also a season that will pass. By taking care of yourself, seeking support, and embracing tools like those offered in Momming Like You Mean It, you can navigate this phase with greater ease. In the next section, we’ll recap the key remedies and strategies to leave you feeling encouraged and ready to tackle colic head-on.

Natural Remedies for Colic Conclusion

Caring for a baby with colic can be one of the most challenging parts of early parenthood, but it’s important to remember that this phase is temporary. By incorporating natural remedies for colic in babies, making thoughtful lifestyle adjustments, and seeking support when needed, you can help soothe your baby’s discomfort and create a more peaceful environment for your family.

From herbal teas and tummy massages to baby wearing and probiotics, the gentle strategies outlined in this post provide a variety of options to try. Pairing these remedies with proper feeding techniques, consistent burping, and a calm atmosphere can make a world of difference in managing colic symptoms.

And don’t forget to take care of yourself along the way. Parenting a colicky baby can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Lean on your support system, prioritize self-care, and equip yourself with tools and resources like my course, Momming Like You Mean It – Mastering The Newborn Stage, which offers in-depth guidance to help you navigate this journey with confidence.

Every cry you soothe, every small victory you achieve, and every ounce of love you pour into your baby makes you the incredible parent they need. Colic may feel endless now, but brighter days are ahead. Keep going, mama—you’re doing amazing! 💕

Natural Remedies for Colic Every Parent Should Know