How to Soothe Colic in Babies Naturally
Nearly 20% of babies experience colic, leaving parents desperately seeking relief. If you're up at 3 AM with an inconsolably crying baby, you're not alone – as a mom of 5, I've been in those exhausting trenches more times than I can count.
Colic can feel overwhelming – one minute your baby is content, the next they're screaming for hours. While traditional medicine often leaves parents feeling helpless, I've discovered through my own journey with colicky babies that nature offers gentle, time-tested remedies that bring real relief.
From my experience raising five children, including two who struggled with severe colic, this guide shares proven natural approaches that work with your baby's rhythms – no harsh medications or invasive treatments, just gentle techniques that help both baby and parent find peace.
These methods work especially well when combined with proper newborn sleep strategies to create a calming nighttime routine.
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Getting Started on How to Soothe Colic Naturally
Dealing with a colicky baby can be overwhelming, especially for new parents. If you're feeling uncertain about this journey, remember that every parent faces challenges - check out these first-time mom quotes for inspiration to remind yourself that you're not alone in this experience.
Remedy 1: The Bicycle Leg Movement
Gas bubbles get trapped in tiny tummies. This gentle motion helps move them along naturally.
Here's how to do it properly:
Lay your baby on their back on a firm surface
Gently hold their ankles and move their legs in a cycling motion
Go slow – about one revolution every 2-3 seconds
Continue for 30-60 seconds, then take a break
Try this 15-20 minutes after feeding or when baby pulls knees to chest. Never force the movement and always support their legs properly. This gentle exercise can also be incorporated into your daily tummy time routine, which helps strengthen your baby's core muscles.
Remedy 2: Clockwise Tummy Massage
Tummy massage works by following your baby's natural digestive direction.
Step-by-step massage technique:
Warm your hands by rubbing them together
Place your palm flat on baby's tummy, just below the ribcage
Make slow, gentle circles in a clockwise direction
Use just enough pressure to slightly indent the skin
Continue for 2-3 minutes
Avoid if baby just ate (wait 45 minutes) or if they tense up. Add a warm compress afterward for extra effectiveness.
Remedy 3: The "5 S's" Soothing Method
Dr. Harvey Karp's method recreates the womb environment.
The five components are:
Swaddling - Wrap baby snugly in a blanket, arms at sides
Side/Stomach position - Hold baby on their side or stomach (never for sleep)
Shushing - Make loud "shush" sounds near baby's ear
Swinging - Gentle rhythmic movements
Sucking - Pacifier or clean finger
Combine at least 3 techniques at once. Shushing needs to be as loud as their crying – your baby heard loud whooshing noises in the womb. These techniques work well alongside other gentle sleep training methods as your baby grows.
Remedy 4: Chamomile Tea (for Nursing Mothers)
If you're breastfeeding, drinking chamomile tea can pass soothing properties to your baby through your breast milk. It's a gentle way to provide comfort from the inside.
Safe preparation guidelines:
Use 1 teaspoon of dried chamomile per cup of hot water
Steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain thoroughly
Drink 1-2 cups per day, preferably after meals
Results typically show within 2-3 days
You can also try chamomile-infused baths for your baby. Add a cup of cooled chamomile tea to lukewarm bathwater – just make sure the temperature is appropriate.
Start with small amounts and watch for any reactions. While chamomile is generally safe, every baby is different. If you notice changes in feeding patterns or unusual fussiness, discontinue use and consult your pediatrician.
Remedy 5: Fennel Seed Water
Fennel water is a traditional remedy that has stood the test of time. Cultures worldwide have used fennel for centuries to ease digestive discomfort in babies, and modern research supports its effectiveness.
Traditional preparation method:
Boil 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds in 1 cup of water
Simmer for 10-15 minutes
Strain thoroughly to remove all seed particles
Cool to room temperature before using
For babies under 6 months, give just 1-2 teaspoons between feedings. Older babies can have up to 1 tablespoon. The natural compounds in fennel help relax the digestive tract and reduce gas buildup.
Fresh preparation is always best, so make small batches and use within 24 hours. Store in the refrigerator and warm slightly before giving to baby.
Remedy 6: Warm Bath Therapy
Warm water has an almost therapeutic effect on colicky babies. It likely reminds them of floating in amniotic fluid. The key is getting the temperature right and creating a soothing environment.
Optimal bath setup:
Water temperature: 98-100°F (test with a thermometer)
Add 2-3 drops of chamomile essential oil to the water
Dim the bathroom lights
Keep the room warm to prevent chills
Limit bath time to 10-15 minutes
You can also add a cup of cooled chamomile tea directly to the bathwater for extra soothing properties. Some parents add a handful of oatmeal in a muslin bag – it makes the water silky and gentle on sensitive skin.
After the bath, immediately wrap baby in a warm towel and continue with gentle patting or rocking. Many babies fall asleep shortly after this routine.
Remedy 7: White Noise and Sound Therapy
White noise is consistently helpful during difficult colic episodes. Babies are accustomed to constant sound in the womb – it was actually quite loud in there. The sudden quiet of the outside world can be jarring.
Effective white noise options:
Vacuum cleaner or hair dryer (from safe distance)
White noise apps set to "womb sounds"
Clothes dryer running (baby should be supervised)
Radio static between stations
Shushing sounds (your voice works too)
The volume needs to be about as loud as baby's crying. Keep the sound source at least 3 feet away from baby's ears to protect their hearing.
Consistency is important. If white noise works for your baby, use it every time they're fussy, not just during major episodes. You can also create simple DIY baby toys that incorporate gentle sounds for additional sensory stimulation.
Remedy 8: Skin-to-Skin Contact
Skin-to-skin contact is remarkably effective for colicky babies. Your body temperature regulates theirs, your heartbeat is familiar and comforting, and physical closeness releases calming hormones for both of you.
Proper positioning techniques:
Place baby chest-to-chest with you, skin touching skin
Support baby's head and neck properly
Cover both of you with a soft blanket
Try gentle back patting or circular rubbing
Maintain contact for at least 20-30 minutes
Both parents can do skin-to-skin – fathers often have great success with this technique. Sometimes a different heartbeat rhythm or voice pitch is exactly what baby needs.
You don't need to stay perfectly still. Gentle swaying, quiet humming, or soft talking can enhance the calming effect.
Remedy 9: Probiotic Support
Probiotics might sound concerning at first, but research shows that specific strains can help reduce colic symptoms by supporting healthy gut bacteria. The key is using the right type and getting guidance from your healthcare provider.
Safe probiotic considerations:
Lactobacillus reuteri is the most studied strain for colic
Look for infant-specific formulations
Typical dose: 5-10 drops once daily
Mix with breast milk, formula, or give directly
Results may take 1-2 weeks to show
Always consult your pediatrician before starting any supplements. What works for one baby might not work for another, and medical guidance ensures you're making safe choices. For more comprehensive guidance on caring for your little one, explore these first-time mom tips that cover various aspects of early parenting.
The theory is that some colicky babies have imbalanced gut bacteria, which affects digestion and comfort. By introducing beneficial bacteria, we might help restore that balance naturally.
Remedy 10: The Colic Carry Position
Special carrying positions provide significant relief for colicky babies. The "tiger in the tree" hold and football carry put gentle pressure on baby's tummy while providing motion and closeness.
The "tiger in the tree" hold:
Place baby face-down along your forearm
Their head rests in your palm, body along your arm
Support with your other hand on their back or bottom
Gently bounce or sway while walking
Switch arms when yours gets tired
The football carry works similarly – baby lies face-down along your forearm, but you hold them more like carrying a football. The gentle pressure on their tummy often helps trapped gas move along naturally.
Safety reminders:
Always support baby's head and neck
Switch positions every 10-15 minutes
Never leave baby unattended in these positions
Stop if baby seems more distressed
Some babies prefer being held upright against your shoulder, others like the face-down positions. Try different holds and see what works best.
Remedy 11: Elimination Diet for Breastfeeding Mothers
Sometimes what you're eating can contribute to your baby's colic symptoms. For some babies, maternal diet changes can make a real difference.
Common trigger foods to consider eliminating:
Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
Caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate, soda)
Spicy foods and strong seasonings
Gassy vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, onions)
Citrus fruits
Eggs or nuts (less common triggers)
The elimination process requires patience. Remove suspected foods completely for 1-2 weeks, then reintroduce them one at a time. Keep a food and symptom diary – it helps identify patterns you might miss otherwise.
This isn't permanent. Once your baby's digestive system matures (usually by 3-4 months), they typically tolerate these foods through breast milk just fine. As your baby grows and reaches important developmental stages, you'll also want to learn about first foods for baby-led weaning to support their continued growth. Consider talking to a lactation consultant for guidance on maintaining good nutrition while eliminating triggers.
Remedy 12: Natural Gripe Water (Homemade)
Store-bought gripe water can be inconsistent, and some contain ingredients that aren't ideal for tiny babies. Making your own gives you complete control over what goes into your baby's system.
Safe homemade gripe water recipe:
1 cup distilled water
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
1/2 teaspoon chamomile flowers
1/4 teaspoon ginger root (optional, for babies over 4 months)
Bring water to a boil, add herbs, simmer for 10 minutes, then strain thoroughly. Cool completely before use. Give 1/2 to 1 teaspoon before feeding or during fussy periods.
Storage and safety tips:
Make fresh batches every 2-3 days
Store in refrigerator in clean glass container
Always test temperature before giving to baby
Start with small amounts to check for reactions
This homemade version is often more effective than commercial gripe water because it's fresher and doesn't contain unnecessary additives.
Remedy 13: Gentle Movement and Rhythmic Motion
Movement is consistently effective for colicky babies. It likely mimics the constant motion they felt in the womb – you were never perfectly still during pregnancy.
Effective movement techniques:
Rocking chair with steady 60-80 rocks per minute
Walking in figure-8 patterns (changes direction regularly)
Exercise ball bouncing (sit on ball, hold baby, gentle bounce)
Car ride simulation (baby swing or vibrating bouncer)
Dance-like swaying to soft music
The key is finding the right rhythm for your baby. Some prefer faster movements, others like slow and steady. Many babies calm down with movements that match a resting heart rate – about 60-80 beats per minute.
Safety considerations:
Never shake baby – all movements should be gentle
Support head and neck at all times
Take breaks if you're getting tired
Watch for signs of overstimulation
Exercise ball bouncing is particularly effective for some families. Mom sits on the ball, holds baby securely, and does gentle bounces. Baby often falls asleep within 10-15 minutes. As your baby develops, you can incorporate movement into baby sensory play activities that support their growing awareness.
Remedy 14: Creating a Calm Environment
Sometimes colic gets worse because babies are overstimulated by their environment. They went from a dark, quiet, cramped space to a world full of bright lights, loud noises, and constant activity. Some little ones get overwhelmed by this change.
Environmental modifications that help:
Dim lights throughout the house during evening hours
Keep room temperature around 68-70°F
Minimize household noise during fussy periods
Create consistent bedtime routines
Limit visitors during peak colic times
Creating routine stability:
Same soothing sequence each time baby fusses
Consistent bedtime environment and timing
Predictable feeding and nap schedules
Calm, quiet atmosphere during evening hours
Some babies are more sensitive to environmental changes than others. If your little one gets more upset in busy, loud situations, they might need more environmental management than typical babies. Around 6 months, many parents find it helpful to track important developmental milestones to better understand their baby's changing needs.
Remedy 15: Essential Oil Aromatherapy (Environmental Only)
Essential oils can help create a calming environment, but – this is very important – never apply oils directly to baby's skin or give them internally. We're talking about environmental aromatherapy only.
Safe essential oils for babies:
Lavender (most gentle and effective)
Roman chamomile (avoid German chamomile)
Mandarin (sweet and mild)
Frankincense (grounding and calming)
Proper diffusion guidelines:
Use only 1-2 drops in a large room diffuser
Run diffuser for 15-30 minutes, then turn off
Keep diffuser at least 6 feet from baby
Ensure good room ventilation
Never diffuse while baby is sleeping in the room
Some babies respond well to mild lavender scent during their bedtime routine. The key is subtlety – if you can strongly smell the oil, it's too much for a baby's sensitive system.
What NOT to do:
Never put oils in baby's bath water
Don't apply to skin, even diluted
Avoid oils on clothing or bedding
Never use oils if baby has respiratory issues
Remember, less is more with babies and essential oils. When in doubt, skip it – there are plenty of other natural remedies that don't carry any risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does colic typically last?
Most babies outgrow colic by 3-4 months. It peaks around 6 weeks. Look for the "rule of threes": crying 3+ hours daily, 3+ days weekly, for 3+ weeks.
What natural remedies are safe to try immediately?
Try swaddling, white noise, gentle massage, bicycle leg movements, and skin-to-skin contact. Consult your pediatrician before using any supplements.
Can my diet cause colic if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes. Common triggers: dairy, caffeine, spicy foods, gassy vegetables. Eliminate one food group for 1-2 weeks and keep a food diary.
How do I know if it's colic or normal fussiness?
Colic: intense crying for 1-3 hours, same time daily, continues despite meeting all needs. Baby pulls knees up and clenches fists. Normal fussiness has clear causes and stops with care.
What's the difference between colic and reflux?
Colic: excessive crying without physical cause. Reflux: frequent spitting up, back arching during feeds, discomfort lying flat. See your pediatrician if you suspect reflux.
Do probiotics help with colic?
Lactobacillus reuteri may help breastfed babies. Effects take 1-2 weeks. Always discuss with your pediatrician first.
How can I cope with a colicky baby?
Take breaks, ask for help, join support groups, practice self-care. Seek help if you feel angry at baby or have harmful thoughts. This phase is temporary.
Conclusion
Navigating colic doesn't have to feel hopeless, though I know it feels that way at 2 AM when nothing works. These natural remedies work with your baby's developing system, offering real relief.
Every baby is unique, so patience matters. Start with safe approaches like proper positioning and gentle massage, then gradually try other remedies while tracking what helps most. Trust your instincts and seek professional support when needed.
This phase will pass – most babies outgrow colic by 4 months. Take care of yourself too; a calm parent can better soothe a colicky baby. You can handle this, even when it doesn't feel like it.
