5 Healthy Natural Teething Remedies
Teething can be one of the most stressful times for parents. It’s torture to watch your little one be uncomfortable and when they can’t relax, neither can you. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for teething discomfort, there are some natural remedies worth trying to help your little one — and you — get through this difficult time in their development.
- Coconut Oil — Organic, cold pressed, extra virgin coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can be soothing for your baby’s gums. Just massage a few drops of the oil directly onto the gums to reduce swelling, redness and, of course, pain. Look for a coconut oil that is as unprocessed and unrefined as possible for purity.
- Baltic Amber Jewelry — This one may sound odd, but trust us, it’s like magic. True Baltic amber contains succinic acid, which is a natural analgesic, or pain killer, that is safe for use on children. Necklaces or bracelets with amber beads release this acid into the skin when warmed by body heat (don’t worry, they won’t feel anything). The succinic acid reduces inflammation and discomfort.
- Chamomile — Known for its calming abilities, chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) can also be used to reduce discomfort in a teething child. You can find chamomile extract in herbal blends or homeopathic teething supplements for children. Some mothers also like to use chamomile tea to comfort their child — you can dip a washcloth in the tea and then chill it in the fridge for them to chew on.
- Frozen Foods — You can purchase a number of freezable toys to give your child to chew on to ease their pain, but you may already have something cheaper in your fridge that works just as well. Since your baby doesn’t yet have the teeth to bite, a large frozen piece of food, like a carrot or apple, can be a natural way to soothe their sore mouth. The cold from the food will numb the gums to give them some relief. Just be sure to keep an eye on them with this one as the frozen food thaws out. Frozen foods can also be put inside a mesh teether for them to chew on safely, without the risk of pieces breaking off. They’ll also enjoy the taste of the produce as it thaws. Just be ready for the mess with this one.
- Essential Oils — Essential oils like clove and chamomile can be applied to the inside of the mouth for relief from teething symptoms. It’s crucial to mix ONLY one drop or two of the oil with a carrier, like coconut oil, before applying along the gumline and even on the inside of the cheek. Do not skip this step — pure essential oils are very potent and can cause serious skin irritations if used on their own.
Beyond these natural remedies, keeping a variety of teethers on hand is always a good idea. From wooden spoons to rubber and silicone rings and animals, like the massively popular Sophie the Giraffe – pick up a variety made from different materials to give your child a choice. What works one day may not the next, as any parent will tell you. Teething is tough, so try out these solutions to keep your baby as comfortable as possible and give yourself a break, too.
