Teething is a benchmark in infant development that varies widely by age and the individual. Babies can begin to cut teeth at as early as three months old, or they may remain toothless for the better part of the first year. Some children teethe without any disruptions at all, while others experience fussiness and pain as each tooth pokes through. Natural relief for teething can come in the form of gentle touch and cold temperatures, supplemented with an essential oil balm.
Step 1
Massage your baby's gums gently with a clean finger, suggests the Mayo Clinic. You can also use a damp, soft washcloth to apply pressure to the swollen areas of the gums. This natural form of relief can be performed as often as your child will tolerate it or seems to benefit from it.
Step 2
Relieve the pain of teething with cool toys and foods that your baby can gnaw on. Teething rings, frozen bagels or waffles or just a cool damp washcloth that you have popped in the freezer for a few minutes may numb his gums to alleviate the discomfort. Items that have been frozen for long periods of time may be too cold and uncomfortable for your teething tike to handle.
Step 3
Create a natural, soothing balm with essential oils to give your baby some relief. "Herbs for Health and Healing," a Rodale publication, suggests a combination of clove bud and vegetable oils. Combine 4 drops of clove bud oil and 1 tbsp. of vegetable oils to create a natural anesthetic agent. Rub this balm on your baby's gums as needed.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- Teething toy
- Frozen bagel
- Clove bud oil
- Vegetable oil
