Long days and even worst longer nights. Every moms worst nightmare. It’s already bad enough that we wake up regularly to check the baby’s breathing which results in cranky mornings but a gassy or colicky baby is even worst. (this is me whispering “Gripe water” to you) The baby won’t stop crying no matter what you do. You’ve tried rocking, singing, walking, and even the baby exercising which only relieved some of the gas you have given up on your options. You will literally try anything if it would give you some peace and quiet.
Been there done that!
Even though I didn’t have colic babies just a crying baby with gas was enough for me. I take my hat off to those who’ve experienced a colicky baby. This jewel I’m about to let you in on just may get your nights back and/or peaceful days. Get up and head to the store after reading this (or send someone) and get you some GRIPE WATER! Run and don’t walk!
What is Gripe Water
Gripe water is an over the counter product that helps aid discomfort in infants. Examples of the discomfort in the infants may be as follows:
- gassiness
- colic
- teething pain
- constipation
- hiccups
Back in the 1800’s an American pharmacist found the solution to calming those issues in newborns which is how Gripe water was “born”.
Gas and colic is something that many mothers have and will continue to experience with their new babies. BUT WAIT! You don’t have to suffer in silence because Gripe water may be the ticket for you. It will help take the discomfort away and leave you with a peaceful baby once again.
Give that baby some so you can get some MUUUCCHH needed sleep because I know you are lacking in that department by now.
Does Gripe Water Work
GIRL!!! I swear by using this method for fussy infants as I have used it for both of my sons and will continue to use Gripe water for my future kids. Anyone I come across with a baby and I notice the signs will sure hear about my recommendation of this product.
My first born seemed to have discomfort right off the bat. He always seemed gassy, constipated and had the hiccups and once I started giving him the recommended doses the symptoms always subsided. My second son would take Gripe water for teething pain and it would soothe his gums.
As for others that I have recommended Gripe water to they also have had great results with it and always let me know once they have seen a difference. But I will say that all brands and/or babies are not the same so what works for me may not work for you.
Is Gripe Water Safe
Yes, Gripe water is safe. It now does not contain alcohol which was banned by the FDA in 1982. You can find it available at most places where you will find other over the counter medicines. If you don’t see it in the common area where you find the over the counter meds try in the baby section near the bottles and bath products are.
Common ingredients it consist of today includes:
Sodium bicarbonate and herbs:
- fennel,
- ginger,
- chamomile,
- cardamom,
- licorice,
- cinnamon,
- clove,
- dill,
- lemon balm or
- peppermint,
Depending on the formula and brand ingredients may be different so keep that in mind.
And guess what….it’s not only recommended for infants but also for adults as well lucky us!
How do you use Gripe Water
Most if not all brands include the following doses for your baby. Gripe water should be given to your baby by a medicine dropper or by the medicine pacifier which is what I prefer to use. Never dilute the Gripe water. It can also be given up to six times a day after each feeding.
- Newborns and Infants two weeks to one month old: ½ teaspoon (2.5 mL)
- Babies one month to six months old: 1 teaspoon (5.0 mL)
- Babies six months and older: 2 teaspoons (10.0 mL)
- Adults: two tablespoons (30 mL)
Is Gripe Water Safe for Newborns
Yes, Gripe water is definitely safe for your newborn. The formula is gentle enough for a newborn and their developing digestive system. The ingredients are made from natural herbs and quality ingredients as you have seen above.
Don’t stress over the overwhelming options or lack there of to rid your baby of the nagging symptoms.
Does Gripe Water make babies sleepy
The original recipe does not make babies sleepy after consumption. However; if your baby suffers from colic and has been crying for long stretches and has then taken the Gripe water you will notice that they have calmed down and may go right to sleep. This is because they have been relaxed and worn themselves out with all of the crying.
On the other hand there is a different recipe that is advertised for night time that contains the ingredient Chamomile which is a natural herb that helps you sleep. This would be a great option for night time to assure the baby and you get some rest at night.
Which brand or recipe is best for baby
As I stated before there are different recipes of Gripe water depending on the company you are purchasing from and not every baby is the same. With that being said you may have to try different brands if you find that one brand may not work for your little one.
Start by pin pointing which ingredient is different between the two brands and see if that does the trick. If you find that none of the brands are working it may be something else that may do the trick like eliminating something from your diet if you are nursing. I have never heard of Gripe water not working but everyone is different.
Let me know if you too swear by using Gripe water or if you haven’t had the same luck as I had using it, I would love to hear either way.