Is chamomile tea safe for newborns?

Is Chamomile Tea Safe for Newborns?
Chamomile tea, known for its soothing properties, has been a topic of interest among parents considering herbal remedies for their infants. However, the safety of chamomile tea for newborns is nuanced and requires careful consideration.
Age Considerations and Recommendations
Most experts agree that chamomile tea should not be given to infants under six months of age. The general consensus is that it may be introduced safely after a baby’s first birthday. This caution stems from the fact that newborns have delicate digestive systems and are primarily reliant on breast milk or formula for their nutritional needs. Introducing herbal teas too early can pose risks, including potential allergic reactions and digestive issues.
Potential Benefits
Chamomile tea is often praised for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to aid digestion. Some studies suggest that it may help alleviate colic and other gastrointestinal discomforts in infants. The tea is rich in essential nutrients, which can support a developing immune system. However, these benefits are typically more applicable to older infants and toddlers rather than newborns.
Risks and Precautions
While chamomile tea is generally considered safe for older babies, there are important precautions to keep in mind. There is a risk of sensitization, particularly for infants with allergies to plants in the daisy family, which includes chamomile. Parents are strongly advised to consult with a pediatrician before introducing chamomile tea to their child’s diet, especially if there is a family history of allergies.
Moreover, the dosage is crucial. Even for older infants, moderation is key, as excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects. Experts recommend starting with small amounts and observing for any reactions.
Conclusion
In summary, while chamomile tea can be a soothing option for older infants and toddlers, it is not recommended for newborns. Parents should wait until their child is at least one year old and should always consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any herbal remedies. This cautious approach ensures the safety and well-being of the child while allowing parents to explore natural options as their baby grows.

Does chamomile tea pass through breast milk?

[7] It has been safely and effectively used alone and with other herbs in infants for the treatment of colic, diarrhea, and other conditions,[8-11] so the smaller amounts expected (but not demonstrated) in breastmilk are likely not to be harmful with usual maternal doses.

What teas are safe for newborns?

We give teas like chamomile, roiboos, fennel, rosehip, lemon balm or fruit teas to toddlers. After 6 months old, a lot of parents give a little bit of chamomile, caraway or anise tea to help with digestion. You should not give black tea, green tea or mint tea. And there’s a controversy around fennel tea.

What teas should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Some types of tea can affect breastmilk production and cause side effects in the baby. Teas that should be avoided include lemongrass, oregano, parsley, peppermint, ginseng, kava andillicium verum. They should be avoided whenever possible, or consumed only under the supervision of a doctor.

Can we give tea to 1 month old baby?

Herbal tea should never be given to a baby under 6 months of age because it could contain harmful bacteria or cause an allergic reaction.

Can chamomile tea soothe a colicky baby?

Chamomile is a carminative with long history of use as a calming herb and may be used to ease intestinal cramping in colicky infants. A soothing tea made from chamomile, vervain , licorice , fennel , and lemon balm has been shown to relieve colic more effectively than placebo.

Does chamomile tea affect the baby?

There is some evidence that chamomile tea can lead to early labor and preterm birth. Other studies suggest it may help start labor in those past their due date.

Can I use chamomile tea instead of gripe water?

How does chamomile compare to gripe water? Gardiner considers chamomile to be a safer alternative than gripe water, which is largely a blend of herbs but can also include sodium bicarbonate and, in some cases, alcohol.

What causes colic in newborn babies?

Infant colic is regular, unexplained crying fits that usually last for at least three hours. The cause is unknown, but theories include immaturity of the bowel, food allergies and ‘gas’ or ‘wind’. Colic tends to go away without treatment after a few weeks.

Why is manzanilla not good for babies?

It can cause: skin reactions (itching, rash, redness), allergic reaction (hives, difficulty of breathing, swelling of face, lips and tongue), contact dermatitis, eye irritation (if applied on the eyes), and it can cause problems for G6PD-deficient babies. These are some of the possible reactions to manzanilla.

Can newborns drink chamomile?

As mentioned, babies under six months of age should wait until after they are not exclusively breastfeeding or on a solo formula or breastmilk diet before you give them any kind of tea including chamomile. You can start to open up to chamomile tea for your baby when you introduce other liquids like water or juice.