What is Gripe Water?

Any new parent who has dealt with a colicky baby knows the agony of living on no sleep and caring for a baby that never stops crying. New moms are often dismayed when their infants appear to be in obvious pain, and there is nothing that the mom can do about it. Gripe water is one potential solution to this problem, and for the parent of a colicky, fussy baby, a welcome relief as well.

History

Mothers have been using herbal ingredients to help colicky babies for centuries, but gripe water, a herbal concoction that is believed to calm fussy babies, was first developed in England in 1851. William Woodward discovered the formulation when he realized that the remedy used to treat fen fever, a common infant ailment of the time, was also helpful in calming babies or relieving stomach problems in infants. He quickly perfected the formula and trademarked the name "Gripe Water" in 1876. The FDA banned the product in 1993, but since that time a few types of gripe water were approved for sale in the U.S.

Function

Gripe water is believed to calm babies who are suffering from gas, stomach pain and colic, all of which are common in infants. The makers of gripe water also claim that it helps with hiccups, acid reflux, and the pain and fussiness associated with teething. It contains homeopathic ingredients that are gentle on a baby's system. The brands of gripe water which are currently available in the United States are all manufactured in FDA-approved labs and are thoroughly tested for safety.

Identification

The various formulations of gripe water do differ in their ingredients, but most contain similar active ingredients. Caraway or caraway seed oil is one ingredient, and it is believed to calm intestinal spasms. Ginger is another common ingredient, and it is included to calm nausea. Many gripe water formulations also contain fennel, which is thought to help with gas, hiccups, and stomach upset. Other common ingredients include sodium bicarbonate, fructose, which adds a sweet flavor, cinnamon or peppermint oils and dill.

Time Frame

The dosage of gripe water needed to treat colic varies depending on the brand. Typical dosage instructions are to give one-half to one teaspoon on an as needed basis when the symptoms of stomach upset or colic appear. Many types of gripe water allow for repeated dosing every 30 minutes, but most products recommend not giving the treatment more than six times in a 24-hour period. Results appear in about five minutes, and typically the baby will stay calm and comfortable for several hours after receiving gripe water.

Misconceptions

Some mothers worry that there is a narcotic or habit forming drug in gripe water. This worry stems from the fact that many babies will sleep for extended periods of time after receiving the medicine. While the original version of gripe water contained alcohol, it has been removed from current formulas. According to the companies that manufacture gripe water, the reason some babies sleep for a long time after receiving the product is because their discomfort is eased.

Expert Insight

While the FDA has deemed gripe water safe, and many doctors actually recommend the product to new parents, there is always a chance that a baby could have an allergic reaction to the product or that it could interfere with other medications the baby is taking. For this reason, you must tell your baby's doctor if you are giving him gripe water. Take the bottle to your baby's next checkup so the doctor can see the ingredients before prescribing any other medications. Keep in mind, however, that there are no known side effects or drug interactions associated with gripe water.

Resources

• Colic Calm Gripe Water
• Colic Ease Gripe Water
• Gripe Water - Colic Help.com