Are Tummy Roll-Ons Effective in Treating Colic in Babies?

Colic in babies is a fairly common problem with 1 in every 5 babies suffering from it. Though the reason for colic is still not well understood, experts believe that it is caused because a baby is still getting used to the world outside the womb, making them irritable. Another reason that the doctors believe causes colic is ingesting something that does not suit the baby leading to indigestion, gas and bloating in the stomach.

Babies have an underdeveloped digestive system which makes it difficult for them to digest food completely. Undigested food may cause bloating, gas, constipation and difficulty in burping, distressing the baby. This makes them overly fussy, agitated and restless. No amount of soothing seems to work for them, worrying parents.

What is Colic?

Colic is excessive and intense crying in a healthy baby for no obvious reason. Colic can be extremely distressing for parents because their baby cries for hours at end and no amount of consoling seems to relieve them. Colic pain is most common during the first six weeks of life and declines on its own by age 3-4 months.

Colic is identified when your baby’s crying

• Lasts longer than 3 hours a day

• Occurs more than 3 days a week

• And continues for more than 3 weeks.

As the reason for colic may be varied, there is no set treatment for the same. Nonetheless, if you can find out what triggers it in your baby, you may be able to comfort them. Alternatively, products like the tummy roll-on are available in the market that can help relax the baby and make them comfortable.

You may also like : Learn All About the Best Home Remedies for Colic to Treat & Manage the Condition of Your Baby

Are tummy roll-ons effective in treating colic pain?

Here are some benefits of applying tummy roll-on your baby's tummy that may help treat colic pain:

1. Reduce gas and bloating pain

Tummy roll-ons are an effective way to alleviate pain bloating and gas cause. Choose a product that has been made using the extracts or oils of natural ingredients known to provide relief from indigestion. These could be Asafoetida (Hing), Fennel (saunf), and Mint (pudina). While Hing is known for reducing acid reflux and constipation, Saunf reduces bloating and assists in healthy burping. On the other hand, Pudina has cooling and refreshing qualities, which can soothe the skin and the stomach of the baby.

2. Prevent acid reflux and relax muscles

A tummy roll-on will not only help the child release gas, but it will also reduce bloating, prevent acid reflux and soothe muscles which become tense from the constant crying and discomfort. The cooling properties of Mint soothe the skin and the moisturizing qualities of the base oil ensure easy application. Some formulas also offer the anti-bacterial properties of oils like Sunflower. This protects the baby from germs and bacteria, as all these oils seep easily through the skin and help the stomach.

3. Safe external use only

Another advantage of a tummy roll-on is that it avoids the necessity of making the child drink or have medicines for colic. As it is for external use only, one can rest assured that they are not feeding the baby any unnecessary ingredients. One needs to just apply the roll-on formula on the stomach of the baby, near the naval area, in a circular motion.

4. Natural and Non-Toxic

These products are 100 per cent non-toxic and do not contain harmful chemicals, artificial preservatives and synthetic fragrances. As they are made from trusted products, they can be applied as soon as the baby starts feeling uncomfortable. Keep applying at an interval of 30 minutes or till the time the baby feels better. Their small packaging adds convenience to the product as they can be carried anywhere one goes.

Most mothers who have already tried the tummy roll-on rave about its effectiveness and swear upon its usefulness. If your baby is also prone to indigestion, then a tummy roll-on can be an effective way to treat colic in them.

Conclusion

If your baby doesn’t feel better in spite of the above remedies, you may contact your paediatrician for further investigation and treatment of colic pain.