The soothing effect of scents did not escape even the oldest cultures. As early as Mesopotamia and Egypt, fragrances were used for therapeutic, cosmetic, or ritual purposes. Of course, the use of these precious aromatic essences was reserved for rulers and priests at the time. Today, the use of aromas is experiencing a renaissance, and you can even use this ancient knowledge for aromatherapy for your colicky baby. However, a sense of proportion is required.
Calming through aromatherapy
In this video, you will learn what to consider when using fragrances with babies and what effect individual scents have on your baby.
Four Winds Oil
Relatively well-known is the so-called Four Winds Oil or "tummy ache oil", which is intended to help babies relax better during excessive crying phases. It is applied to the baby's tummy, ideally in a clockwise direction, and is said to have a relaxing and calming effect. Above all, however, this oil helps in cases of babies with flatulence and abdominal pain. However, it is no longer assumed that constant crying is triggered by abdominal pain. Due to its calming effect, Four Winds Oil is definitely worth a try. It is usually a mixture of anise, fennel, caraway, and coriander oil. Sometimes some jojoba oil, chamomile oil, or marjoram oil is also added. In contrast to other essential oils, this oil is suitable for applying directly to the baby's skin. After applying the oil, a warm, damp cloth can be applied to further intensify the effect. This can be, for example, a cloth handkerchief or a thin cloth diaper. Some raw wool can be placed on top as needed, and then the wrap is fixed with a cotton diaper and can thus remain in place all night long.
Other essential oils
Other essential oils also have a calming effect, including lemon balm oil, rose oil, lavender oil, and mandarin oil. Important: These oils must not be applied directly to the skin.
Aroma bath
Some midwives also recommend an aroma bath for colicky babies. For this, a small amount of the corresponding oil is added to the bath water (e.g., the Four Winds oil). To ensure it emulsifies, a little breast milk, cream, or honey should also be added.
What is the best way to use the oil?
Essential oil must never be applied directly to a baby's skin unless it is specifically labeled as a baby care product. Otherwise: Essential oil should always be used sparingly. It is enough to put a few drops on a cloth and place it next to the crib. Alternatively, you can put a drop on the child's romper or the bed sheet. This is completely sufficient to achieve a calming effect.
Sensitive baby noses
But be careful: Infants in particular still have an extremely pronounced and correspondingly sensitive sense of smell. Therefore, if in doubt, you should dose the intense fragrances too low rather than too high.
In any case, the little ones prefer the smell of Mom or Dad.
Many midwives are also well-versed in aromatherapy. If you have any questions, your midwife may have a tip or two for you.
By the way::/H3
It's not just aromas that can help your baby calm down much faster and more easily and reach a more relaxed posture. Our swing2sleep automatic baby hammock achieves the same through gentle rocking and a cozy snugness that also effectively shields your baby from too many external stimuli. In this way, your baby feels completely safe and secure, just like in Mom's belly.
The team at swing2sleep wishes you lots of fun and success with trying and testing.
