Gripe Water for Babies: Safe Dosage, Benefits and Side Effects!

• Written by Sejal Singhania

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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If you’ve ever been around a newborn or spent time with a new parent, you’ve probably heard of gripe water. It is a natural remedy passed down through generations to soothe gassy babies and ease digestive distress.

But is it safe for babies? How much dosage is appropriate? Does it actually work, or is it just another baby myth? Let’s explore the gripe water uses for babies, its ingredients, and safe usage tips so you can make informed, gentle choices for your baby’s well-being.

What is Gripe Water?

Gripe Water is a liquid supplement used to relieve digestive distress in infants and children. It contains a combination of ingredients, such as ginger, dill, or fennel, which are known for their soothing effects on the stomach and intestines. Doctors usually recommend giving gripe water to newborns to ease bloating, cramps and other digestive discomforts.

Note: Since not all babies respond the same way to gripe water, it’s advisable to consult a paediatrician before giving it to your little one.

The Surprising History of Gripe Water

Did you know that the initial ingredients of gripe water contained alcohol and sugar, the two not-so-baby-friendly elements? It originated in 1851 when the English pharmacist William Woodward developed a remedy to treat gastrointestinal discomfort in infants.

Inspired by the treatments for malaria and "fen fever", which was prevalent in Eastern England during the 1840s, Woodward originally included alcohol, sugar, sodium bicarbonate, and dill oil as primary ingredients in gripe water. This remedy soon became popular among physicians and parents and was registered as a trademark in 1876.

Breaking Down Gripe Water Ingredients

Gripe water has evolved over the years, with its ingredients adapting to modern preferences and safety standards. Originally, in the 19th century, it included a combination of alcohol and herbs such as ginger and fennel, which had soothing properties. This helped in relieving gas, colic, and other stomach discomforts in babies.

As concerns about alcohol consumption grew, modern formulations replaced alcohol with sodium bicarbonate to neutralise stomach acid. In recent years, manufacturers have started producing natural, alcohol-free, and sugar-free formulations. Gripe water ingredients differ by brand, but most formulas typically contain herbs thought to soothe the digestive system. Common ingredients include:

• Fennel: It has antispasmodic properties that may help relieve gas and bloating.
• Ginger: It is known for its ability to soothe upset stomachs and reduce nausea.
• Chamomile: It has calming effects that may help alleviate colic and promote sleep.
• Dill: Believed to alleviate gas and indigestion in babies.
• Lemon balm: Used for its soothing and relaxing properties.

Remember: When selecting a gripe water, it's helpful for parents to take a moment to read the ingredients list. It’s best to keep an eye out for ingredients like gluten, including wheat, dairy products, sucrose, and alcohol, and consider avoiding them to ensure the most gentle option for your little one. 

How Gripe Water Works?

Gripe water gently uses herbal ingredients like dill, fennel, and ginger to soothe your infant's digestive system, helping to relieve trapped gas and bloating. It also contains sodium bicarbonate, which can help neutralise stomach acids. Though it has been a trusted remedy for many families over generations, it's always best to consult with a paediatrician first, especially since scientific evidence of its effectiveness is limited and safety depends on the ingredients and proper dosage.

How to Use Gripe Water for Babies?

Here’s a general guide to using gripe water for babies

Check the Ingredients

Ensure the gripe water is suitable for your baby’s age and is free from harmful additives such as sugar or alcohol.

Grip Water Dosage Instructions

Use the recommended amount based on your baby’s age. Here’s a general guideline:

Administer properly

Use a dropper to gently squeeze the liquid into your baby’s mouth. You can also mix it with breast milk or formula if required.

Consult a Paediatrician

Always consult a paediatrician before giving gripe water to babies with health conditions.

Observe reactions

If your baby experiences adverse reactions to gripe water, such as rashes or vomiting, discontinue its use immediately if necessary.

Uses of Gripe Water

Here are the common uses of gripe water:

Relieving Colic

Colic is a term used to describe excessive crying or fussiness in a healthy infant. It typically occurs in babies who are less than 3 months old. Gripe water works as an effective treatment for colic by relieving discomfort caused by gas or bloating.

Easing Teething Pain

Teething pain occurs when a baby’s first teeth start pushing through the gums. This process can be uncomfortable for them and often makes them cranky and fussy. The soothing gripe water ingredients can help in reducing pain, making the teething process easier for babies.

Alleviating Hiccups

Hiccups are common in babies and often make them irritable and uncomfortable. While they usually disappear naturally, giving gripe water fastens the process by comforting the baby’s stomach and diaphragm, resulting in quick relief from hiccups.

Benefits of Using Gripe Water for Babies

Newborn babies undergo a series of physical changes and challenges in their early days, which can make them feel irritable and uncomfortable. Here are some ways in which gripe water can prove to be beneficial in easing their discomfort:

Helps Calm Crying

Digestive issues can be rough on babies, making them moody and emotional. A small dose of gripe water helps to soothe the discomfort caused by colic, gas or bloating. It helps your little one relax, allowing them to rest comfortably.

Alcohol-free Alternative

Since the ingredients of gripe water have evolved over the years, keeping in mind the safety of the babies, it’s an alcohol-free alternative that provides quick relief from digestive issues, making your little one’s life a little easier.

Non-invasive Option

Unlike medications that might require more hands-on treatment, gripe water can be given orally in small doses. This gentle approach allows parents to provide relief to their little ones without the need for invasive procedures.

Natural Remedies Alternative To Gripe Water 

If you're unsure about gripe water, consider trying these natural remedies to help soothe your baby's stomachache or gas. They can provide gentle relief and comfort for your little one. Some of them are:

• Burp your baby after every feed.
• Give a gentle tummy massage in circular motions.
• Try bicycle leg movements.
• Use a warm towel on their tummy.
• Keep feeding upright to reduce gas. 

Side Effects of Gripe Water for Babies

Some common side effects of gripe water for newborns include:

• Drowsiness
• Increases the risk of constipation in babies
• Can worsen the gastrointestinal issues in some infants
• Causes allergic reactions in some babies, such as itching, swelling of the lips or tongue, watery eyes, hives and changes in breathing patterns
• In rare cases, gripe water has been found to contain harmful bacteria, which can cause severe diarrhoea.
• Gripe water contains sodium bicarbonate, which, if overconsumed, disrupts the acid-base balance in the body, leading to metabolic alkalosis.

Note: Even the strongest immune systems can face unexpected challenges and may require a check-up or a doctor’s visit. Ensuring your child is under Family Health Insurance is wonderful. Designed for expecting parents and young families, this plan offers maternity and newborn coverage, inpatient care, and additional benefits. While nurturing your little one’s immunity, let Care Health Insurance support you because caring goes beyond cuddles.

Summing it Up!

Gripe Water is a natural remedy used for easing digestive issues in newborns. When used properly with the correct dosage depending on your baby’s age, it can help provide relief from a distressed stomach.

However, not all babies respond well to gripe water. Therefore, it’s a wise approach to consult a paediatrician before giving gripe water to your baby to ensure their safety and well-being.

Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.