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Colic & Gas Pain Herbal Remedies

Colic, Herbal Remedies for

Colic is a peculiar condition that affects some children in a way that is uncomfortable and they sometimes have unexplained bouts of vigorous and persistent crying, during which they cannot be consoled in any manner. The Greeks believe this condition lies somewhere in the digestive system and the name "colic" reflects the belief, it is a Greek word meaning, large intestine. It is quite normal for babies to go through some stage in their development. The condition can affect infants in the first three or four months of life, and often begins in the first three weeks after birth. The pain caused by excess gas in the stomach is increased by  swallowed air. This form of gas well may be the most severe type of pain that the infant has ever experienced in their short life. Colic may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as body clenched fists, arched back, a tense and distended tummy along with behavior that seems inconsolable. They may flail or pull their knees up to their chest. One way of helping is to bicycle softly pushing the legs back toward the tummy. And parents must learn to deal with their own emotions and maintain confidence in their ability to deal with a colicky infant and affirm their relationship with their child, not blaming themselves for the condition. This self assurance is an important aspect of dealing with infant colic, as the psychological strains may rob a parent of all confidence in their abilities to deal effectively with their newborn baby.

Catnip is often recommended for children for its soothing, calming properties. A major constituent in Catnip, nepelactone, is similar to chemical contained in Valerian root and works as a mild sedative to insure a good night's sleep. Catnip and Fennel liquid herbs are a synergistic combination of two time-honored botanicals that primarily support the digestive and nervous system. Catnip is also a great source of vitamins A, C, and the B complex. It also contains magnesium, manganese, sodium, phosphorus and a trace of sulfur. It is an excellent herbal remedy for excess gas in the belly and holds both antispasmodic and carminative qualities, to still the cramps of gas bubbles, moving them along and out. 
 
Fennel seed is the most frequently recommended herbal remedy by naturopaths or herbologists. The beneficial effects are attributed to its volatile oils. Among the volatile oils, Fennel extract contains antheole, which has the same chemical structure as a chemical naturally present in the body, called dopamine. Dopamine is known to have to have a relaxing effect on the intestine and a beneficial effect on infant colic. Many lactating mothers have found relief for their infants by using Fennel seed extracts. And Fennel is safe, as no harmful or toxic reactions have ever been reported with its use. And besides it antispasmodic qualities, Fennel has antioxidant, anticarcinogenic and antimicrobial activity which is also attributed to anethole.
 
Peppermint extract contains a carminative oil which reduces gas in the stomach or intestines, and helpful in the relief of colic. It also reduces inflammation in the bowels and lessens gas production. Due to its calming and numbing effects, it also helps to reduce flatulence and other digestive conditions. Peppermint actually expedites the emptying of the stomach and enhances the digestive process. The main ingredient is the volatile oil menthol, giving it the characteristic cooling and cleansing feeling. 
 
Lobelia leaf acts on the regulating centers of the body such as the circulation, digestive, hormonal and central nervous systems. It has been used throughout history in midwifery, to relax the pelvic muscles. And is still used today to calm the nerves and act as a natural sedative. It has also been used as an emetic, expectorant, relaxant, antispasmodic, sialogogue and diaphoretic. It is in no sense a narcotic but it reacts profoundly on the nervous, circulatory system and there is a sense of marked relaxation so that the stomach may release gas or colic. It has been proven to be helpful for hyperactivity, spastic bowel, swelling and ulcers.

 

1. Colic - Chamomile, Lobelia Leaf and catnip. Mix in equal parts. Steep 1 tbsp. in 1 cup boiling water for 10 minutes. Drink warm.

2. Colic in infants - Fennel seed (4 parts), Peppermint leaf (3 parts), Chamomile (2 parts), and Valerian (1 part). Steep 1/2 tsp. mixture in 1-1/2 cups boiling water for 5 inutes, then strain. Give in 5 or 6 doses during the day, in warm milk or by itself.

3. Colic, A Tea for Relief - Juniper berries, Wormwood, Chamomile, and Yarrow flowers. Mix in equal parts. Steep 1 tsp. in 1/2 cup boiling water. Take 1/2 cup, unsweetened

Disclaimer - The information presented herein by Mountain Maus’ Remedies is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.