What Is Gripe Water Made of?
Gripe water can be an effective remedy for treating the gastrointestinal symptoms of infants. These symptoms may include colic cramps, gas and hiccups, along with teething problems and reflux stomach. Gripe water contains ingredients that can calm and soothe these symptoms, allowing a baby to relax and be relieved of the agony of a colic attack. There are several over-the-counter brands of gripe water available, such as Baby Bliss and Colic Calm.
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History
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The history of gripe water goes back to 1720 in Europe, where it was prepared as a home remedy to soothe crying infants with colic. William Woodward, an American pharmacist in England, and some other scientists discovered in 1851 that the formula used to treat fen fever (malaria) was effective in treating infant colic. Woodward registered the product "Gripe Water" as a trademark in 1876. Today, gripe water continues to be a popular choice for treating an infant's colic.
Facts
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According to ColicFacts.com, colic may be caused by a baby's immature gastrointestinal system and an underdeveloped nervous system. Some babies are more temperamental and will scream louder and longer, non-stop, during a colic attack.
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Contents of Gripe Water
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The ingredients in gripe water may vary based on the brand name. The basic contents may include ginger, fennel, sodium bicarbonate, fructose and 3.6 percent alcohol, along with dill and chamomile.
Effects of Ginger, Fennel and Chamomile
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Fennel and ginger are both effective ingredients of natural sources that can soothe and relieve digestive problems. Fennel oil is particularly beneficial in relieving symptoms of the gastrointestinal tract. Chamomile is also effective in reducing gas as well as relieving a nervous stomach. It is a mild sedative that can reduce restlessness and irritability.
Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate, Dill and Fructose
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Sodium bicarbonate will reduce the acidity of the stomach. According to Surfnetparent.com, sodium bicarbonate can temporarily relieve some discomfort caused by acid reflux. According to Herb2000.com, "the word dill means to lull." Dill in gripe water can soothe and relieve colic in infants and lull them off to sleep. Fructose is a natural sugar in fruits and honey.
Considerations
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Not all gripe water is created equal. Some gripe water consists of all natural ingredients, containing chamomile, fennel and caraway along with peppermint and ginger as well as aloe, lemon balm, purified water and glycerine. Other types of gripe water may have alcohol and sweeteners added to the basic ingredients.
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