24 Secret Natural Home Remedies for Teething Baby at Night

The delicate cries of a teething baby can be distressing for any parent. Nights can seem endless, filled with frequent wake-ups and inconsolable tears. But there’s hope in the form of time-tested, natural remedies. Dive into this comprehensive guide to learn about 24 Secret Natural Home Remedies for Teething Baby at Night.

Teething Basics: Navigating the Gummy Transition

Every baby experiences teething differently. For some, the first tooth emerges with little fuss, while others may find the process very uncomfortable. Signs of teething include:

• Drooling: This often precedes teething by a couple of weeks.
• Swollen, Red Gums: Especially evident where the tooth is coming through.
• Chewing on Everything: Babies naturally want to chew to relieve the pressure.

Understanding these signs can help parents navigate the challenging teething terrain with ease.

The Night-Time Challenge: Understanding Increased Discomfort After Dark

It’s not your imagination – babies often do fuss more at night. Without daytime distractions and combined with the day’s fatigue, teething discomfort becomes more pronounced, making it a formidable challenge to get your baby settled for the night.

24 Home Remedies for Teething Baby at Night

a. Cool Comforts:

• Cold Spoon: Place a spoon in the fridge for an hour. The cold surface provides a challenging yet malleable surface for babies to bite on, offering instant relief.
• Frozen Washcloth: Soak a clean washcloth, wring, and freeze. The textured fabric is perfect for the baby’s emerging teeth, while the cold alleviates discomfort.
• Cucumber Slices: They’re cool and crunchy. Just ensure they’re big enough to avoid any choking risk.
• DIY Herbal Popsicles: Create your own by freezing chamomile or peppermint tea in popsicle molds. They’re a refreshing treat for older babies.

b. Herbal Heroes:

• Chamomile Tea: This ancient herb can calm nerves, reduce inflammation, and induce sleep. You can dampen a cloth in the tea and allow your baby to chew on it.
• Vanilla Extract: Its mild alcohol content can slightly numb the gums, and its sweet taste can distract from the pain.
• Clove Oil: When mixed with carrier oil and applied in small amounts, its analgesic properties can be a godsend.
• Fennel Seeds: They have been used for generations to reduce inflammation. Boil them, let the water cool, and dab onto the gums.
• Licorice Root: Its natural anti-inflammatory properties can offer relief. The root’s chewy texture makes for a great, natural teether.

c. Gentle Distractions:

• Soft Lullabies: Sometimes, singing a soft tune can divert attention from the pain.
• Gentle Rocking: A rhythmic motion can often lull a baby to sleep, momentarily easing distress.
• Massage: Gentle strokes and light massage around the jaw and neck can alleviate tension and discomfort.
• Breastfeeding: For some babies, the act is comforting enough to detract from the teething pain.
• Engaging Storytime: Even if your baby doesn’t understand the words yet, the sound of your voice can be a pleasant distraction.

d. Natural Nibblers:

• Baltic Amber Teething Necklace: When worn, the warmth from the skin releases succinic acid from the amber, which is believed to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Wooden Teething Rings: Untreated wooden rings provide a natural, chemical-free biting surface. The hardness of the wood is excellent for emerging teeth.
• Organic Cotton Teething Mittens: Babies can wear these mittens to prevent them from scratching themselves and serve as a soft chewing surface.
• Cold Foods: For babies introduced to solids, cold foods such as yogurt or cold fruit purees can offer relief.

e. Soothing Solutions:

• Aloe Vera: Its natural cooling and healing properties can be a boon for irritated gums. Ensure you’re using food-grade aloe and gently apply it on the gums.
• Elevated Sleeping Position: Sometimes, elevating the head slightly can alleviate pain due to reduced blood flow to the swollen gums.
• Honey (for babies over 12 months): Its natural antibacterial and soothing properties can provide some relief when rubbed in small amounts on the gums. Remember, honey isn’t suitable for babies under 12 months due to the risk of botulism.

f. Sensory Distractions:

• Warm Bath: A warm, soothing bath with a few drops of lavender essential oil can distract from the pain and help induce sleep.
• White Noise: The steady hum of a white noise machine can offer a comforting auditory distraction and also mask other household noises that might wake a sensitive baby.
• Soft Lighting: Gentle, soft lighting, like a Himalayan salt lamp or a soft nightlight, can create a calming environment, setting the stage for a more peaceful night.

DIY Teething Treat Recipes

1. Frozen Banana Bites

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• A dash of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Peel the bananas and slice them into bite-sized chunks.
2. If you wish, you can sprinkle a tiny bit of cinnamon on them for added flavor. However, remember to use it sparingly, as it’s just for a hint of taste.
3. Place the banana slices on a tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Freeze for a few hours or until solid.
5. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a sealed container and store in the freezer. Give them to your baby as a cooling teething treat.

2. Oat and Apple Teething Biscuits

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1 apple, peeled, cored, and finely grated
• 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
• A dash of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Blend the rolled oats in a blender or food processor until they form a fine powder.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the oat powder, grated apple, coconut oil, and cinnamon. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough and shape it into small biscuit shapes, suitable for baby-sized hands.
5. Place the biscuits on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and firm.
6. Allow the biscuits to cool thoroughly before offering them to your baby.

3. Cooling Chamomile Pops

Ingredients:

• Chamomile tea (caffeine-free)
• Silicone popsicle molds or ice cube trays

Instructions:

1. Brew a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool down completely.
2. Pour the cooled tea into popsicle molds or ice cube trays.
3. Freeze until solid.
4. Pop a chamomile ice cube or popsicle out whenever your baby needs soothing relief from teething pain.

4. Sweet Potato Teething Sticks

Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet potato
• A dash of cinnamon (optional)
• A drizzle of olive oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and peel the sweet potato.
3. Cut the sweet potato into long, thin sticks, approximately the width of a finger.
4. Optionally, toss the sweet potato sticks in a light drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle with cinnamon.
5. Arrange the sticks on a baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
6. Bake for about 25 minutes or until they are soft but still hold their shape.
7. Allow them to cool fully before offering to your baby.

5. Coconut & Date Teething Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of pitted dates
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened desiccated coconut
• 2 tablespoons of chia seeds
• 1/4 cup of rolled oats

Instructions:

1. Place dates in a food processor and blend until they form a sticky mixture.
2. Add the coconut, chia seeds, and oats. Process until everything is well combined and forms a dough-like consistency.
3. Take small amounts of the mixture and shape into balls.
4. Roll the balls in some extra desiccated coconut if desired.
5. Refrigerate for an hour or until firm.
6. Store in the refrigerator and serve cold to soothe sore gums.

6. Berry Yogurt Drops

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup of blended berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)

Instructions:

1. Blend the berries until they form a smooth puree. Strain if necessary to remove seeds.
2. Mix the berry puree with the Greek yogurt until well combined.
3. Drop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto a tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Freeze for a few hours or until solid.
5. Once frozen, transfer to a sealed container and store in the freezer. Serve as a cooling treat for teething relief.

Safety First: Precautions to Keep in Mind

While natural, every remedy won’t be suitable for all babies. Here are the safety guidelines:

• Always supervise your baby, especially when they have objects in their mouth.
• Ensure the items you give are age-appropriate.
• Check for allergic reactions, particularly with herbal remedies.
• Always consult with a pediatrician before trying new remedies.

When to Consult a Pediatrician

Teething is a natural phase in your child’s development. However, sometimes the symptoms can be confused with other medical conditions or intensify to the point where professional consultation is necessary. While home remedies can often effectively alleviate teething discomfort, being vigilant about your child’s overall health and well-being is essential. Here’s a detailed guide on when it might be time to consult your paediatrician:

Prolonged Fever:

While a slight increase in body temperature can sometimes accompany teething, a high or prolonged fever is not a typical symptom. If your baby has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, it’s time to call the doctor.

Diarrhea:

Some parents believe diarrhoea is linked to teething, but many paediatricians disagree. Consistent or severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and may indicate an infection or health issue.

Persistent Ear Pulling:

Babies might pull their ears due to the pain radiating from their gums. However, if the ear pulling is persistent and is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or irritability, it could be an ear infection.

Rashes Outside the Drool Area:

Drooling can cause a rash around the baby’s mouth, chin, and sometimes on the neck. However, if you observe rashes on other body parts, they might not be related to teething and should be checked by a paediatrician.

Loss of Appetite Lasting More Than 2 Days:

It’s common for a teething baby to refuse food due to gum discomfort. However, if the refusal persists for more than two days or the baby refuses solids and liquids, it’s essential to consult a doctor.

Unusual Irritability:

While it’s typical for babies to be fussy during teething, extreme or prolonged irritability can indicate other issues, like an illness or infection.

Sleep Disturbances Beyond Usual Teething Discomfort:

While teething can disrupt a baby’s sleep, continuous sleep disturbances or unusual patterns might have different causes and should be discussed with a paediatrician.

Signs of Dehydration:

This includes symptoms like fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, sunken eyes, or a soft spot on the head appearing sunken. Dehydration can be severe and requires immediate medical attention.

Visible Abnormalities:

If you observe any unusual bumps, discolourations, or cuts on the gums or in the baby’s mouth, it’s best to have a paediatrician examine them.

Inconsolable Crying:

If your baby is crying for extended periods and can’t be soothed, this could indicate severe discomfort or another underlying issue that needs attention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Teething and Natural Remedies

Q1: At what age do babies typically start teething?

A: While it varies for every baby, most infants start teething around 4-6 months. However, some might show teething signs as early as 2-3 months, while others might get their first tooth closer to their first birthday.

Q2: Can teething cause fever in babies?

A: Mild elevation in temperature can sometimes accompany teething, but a high fever is not typically a direct result of teething. If your baby has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, it’s essential to consult a paediatrician.

Q3: Are all home remedies safe for my baby?

A: While many home remedies are gentle and natural, ensuring they’re appropriate for your baby’s age is crucial. Monitor your baby when trying a new remedy and check for allergic reactions. When in doubt, consult with a paediatrician.

Q4: How long does the teething phase last?

A: Teething can continue until a child is about three years old. The first set, primary teeth, is usually complete by age 2-3, but remember, every child is different.

Q5: Can I use multiple remedies simultaneously for my baby?

A: Yes, you can combine different methods. For instance, you might offer a frozen banana bite and a gentle gum massage. However, observing your baby’s reactions is essential to ensure they’re comfortable and not overwhelmed.

Q6: My baby has a loss of appetite due to teething. Is this normal?

A: Yes, it’s common for teething babies to refuse food because of gum discomfort. However, if this refusal persists for more than two days or the baby refuses liquids, it’s essential to consult a paediatrician.

Q7: Do all babies show clear signs of teething?

A: Not necessarily. While many babies might show clear signs like drooling, irritability, or gum swelling, some babies might get their first tooth without noticeable symptoms.

Q8: Are teething toys necessary if I’m using natural home remedies?

A: Teething toys are not mandatory, but they can be beneficial. Natural remedies provide relief, but teething toys, especially those designed to reach the back molars, can be beneficial in applying counter-pressure to emerging teeth.

Q9: How should I clean and store the DIY teething treats?

A: Most DIY teething treats should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer in airtight containers. Before serving any treat, ensure it’s cold enough to soothe but not too hard to be a choking hazard. Always clean ingredients thoroughly before preparing any recipe.

Q10: How do I know if my baby is having an allergic reaction to a remedy?

A: Signs of an allergic reaction can include hives, a rash, watery eyes or nose, diarrhoea, vomiting, unusual fussiness, or extreme tiredness. If you suspect an allergic reaction or if the reaction is severe (like difficulty breathing), seek medical attention immediately.

Wrapping Up: Guiding Your Baby to Tranquil Nights

With patience, understanding, and the aid of Mother Nature’s remedies, teething doesn’t have to be a tumultuous period. Experiment with these remedies to find the combination that ensures restful nights for you and your baby.

Disclaimer

1. General Information: The content provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.
2. Professional Consultation: Always seek the advice of a pediatrician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding your child’s health or medical condition.
3. Variability: Every baby is unique. What works for one may not work for another. Always consider your baby’s age, health, and known allergies.
4. Safety First: Always supervise your baby when trying new remedies, especially with edible solutions, to prevent choking or adverse reactions.
5. Homemade Recipes: The DIY recipes are based on commonly accepted home solutions. However, ensure all ingredients are safe for your baby’s consumption and avoid ingredients known to cause allergies.
6. External Links: Any links provided in the blog are for convenience and informational purposes only. We do not vouch for the accuracy of the content or the safety of the practices recommended on these external sites.
7. Updates & Changes: Information can change over time. While we strive to keep our content updated, we do not guarantee the information’s completeness, reliability, or accuracy.
8. Liability: The author and publisher of this blog post will not be held responsible for any adverse effects arising directly or indirectly from the suggested remedies. Use them at your discretion.