Herbal Remedies for Colicky Babies and Gentle Care for Clogged Nipples
#motherhoodtomenopause
When Alex was a baby, I quickly realized that the gentlest way to help him was by caring for myself first. One of the best things I learned from my husbands stepmother Ann (She ran one of the La Leche groups here in Ohio) was that drinking an herbal tea and allowing its calming, soothing properties to flow through my milk was one of the most effective and nurturing ways to support him and myself. This approach ensures that your baby receives only a diluted amount of the herbs, filtered naturally through your body, which makes it much safer than offering the herbs directly. Babies systems are so delicate, and introducing herbs directly, even safe ones, can sometimes be too strong or overstimulating.
Always check with your Doctor first.
By drinking the tea, you’re not just helping your baby; you’re also nurturing yourself. The herbs in this tea, chamomile, fennel, and lemon balm, are just as soothing for a mother as they are for a baby. Chamomile calms your mind and eases tension, fennel supports digestion (especially helpful when stress affects your stomach), and lemon balm gently relieves anxiety. As mothers, we often carry our babies stress alongside our own, and I truly believe that when we take care of our emotional and physical well-being, it passes directly into our milk as a calming, loving energy for our little ones.
This ritual becomes more than just a remedy; it’s a moment of rest and care for you. When I would sit down to sip this tea, I felt grounded and more connected to myself, and that sense of peace seemed to flow into Alex as he nursed. The act of slowing down, drinking something warm, and letting your body do the work of filtering the herbs can be profoundly healing not just for colicky babies, but for new mothers adjusting to the demands of motherhood.
So, take a moment to make this tea for yourself. Breathe, sip slowly, and know that by nurturing yourself, you’re also nurturing your baby in the gentlest and most natural way possible. It’s a small but powerful act of self-care that creates a ripple effect of calm and comfort for both of you.
For Colicky and Stressed-Out Babies
When Alex was colicky, I would do anything to help him feel better. Chamomile, fennel, and lemon balm became my allies, gentle, baby-safe herbs that calmed his little belly and settled his spirit. These small rituals not only helped him, but they gave me a sense of control and a moment of calm during those challenging days. As a side note, all three of these herbs are so easy to grow and you can harvest and dry them so that you have plenty on hand for the winter months. Warning…Plant lemon balm once and you will have it forever, everywhere. Fennel too.
1. Gentle Herb-Infused Tea/Milk for Nursing Mothers
This tea is a simple way to let the calming properties of herbs reach your baby through your breastmilk.
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers (calms and soothes digestion; check for allergies, especially if your baby or family has ragweed sensitivities)
1/2 teaspoon dried fennel seeds (relieves gas and supports a healthy tummy; avoid if there’s a family history of allergies to celery, carrots, or other Apiaceae plants)
1/2 teaspoon dried lemon balm (eases stress and restlessness; though rare, some individuals may be sensitive to lemon balm, so start with small amounts)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.
2. Add chamomile, fennel, and lemon balm to the water. Cover and let steep for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the herbs and allow the tea to cool to lukewarm.
4. Sip the tea slowly, or mix 1/2 cup of the infusion into your preferred milk to enjoy.
5. Nurse your baby as usual, and let the herbs work their magic through your milk.
This tea not only soothed Alex’s colic but gave me a moment to breathe and center myself.
2. Herbal Compress for a Rumbly Tummy
When I wasn’t nursing, I used these same herbs to make a warm compress for Alex’s tummy. The warmth combined with the calming herbs often did the trick.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the herbal infusion as described above, ensuring it is well-strained and cooled to a warm, safe temperature.
2. Dip a soft, clean cloth into the tea, wring out the excess, and place it gently on your babys tummy.
3. Let the warmth and soothing herbs ease their discomfort.
For a Clogged Nipple
When Alex was still nursing especially towards the end when he had teeth and wanted to nurse constantly , clogged nipples were a recurring struggle for me. The sharp pain, the difficulty of nursing, and the frustration of trying to relieve it felt like an uphill battle some days. Warm herbal compresses became my go-to solution, loosening the blockage while offering soothing relief.
Herbal Compress for a Clogged Nipple
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers (calming and anti-inflammatory; ensure no sensitivity to ragweed or related plants)
1 teaspoon dried calendula flowers (soothing and healing for tender skin; test a small amount if you have a history of flower allergies)
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (stimulates circulation and relieves tension; avoid if allergic to Apiaceae family plants like celery or carrots)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil, then remove from heat.
2. Add the chamomile, calendula, and fennel to the water. Cover and let steep for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the herbs, ensuring the infusion is free of debris, and let it cool until it’s warm but not hot.
4. Soak a clean, soft cloth or cotton pad in the infusion, wring out the excess, and place it gently on the affected nipple.
5. Leave the compress on for 10- 15 minutes, re-soaking as needed to keep it warm.
What Helped Me Most:
While using the compress, I would gently massage the clogged area in small circles, working toward the nipple to encourage the blockage to release.
Nursing frequently on the affected side was key. I found that positioning Alex so his chin pointed toward the clog made a big difference.
Warm showers became my saving grace. I’d use the warmth of the water to massage the area, letting it soften the clog and bring relief.
If you’re dealing with a clogged nipple, I understand how frustrating it can be. If the clog doesn’t clear or you notice signs of infection like redness or fever, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
A Personal Note
I share these because I’ve lived through these rough moments myself. When Alex was a baby, these small rituals brought us both comfort and calm. They reminded me that even in the hardest moments, there are simple ways to feel supported and cared for.
As mothers, we give so much, but it’s important to take time for ourselves, too. Whether you’re soothing your baby’s cries or easing your own discomfort, remember that you’re not alone. Let these herbs and these rituals remind you of the wisdom passed down through generations of wise women and the power of love and care for your child and for yourself.
I truly hope these remedies bring you and your little one peace and ease. You’re doing such an incredible job mama. Trust yourself and lean into the quiet support of mama nature, who is always here for you.
With Affection, always,
Beth
