Teething
Christopher Hobbs:
“Teething is a condition of pain and irritability in infants as teeth begin to develop.”
Etiologic and Other Factors Related to Teething
Teething is a natural developmental process that typically begins around 4-7 months of age when an infant’s primary teeth erupt through the gums. Factors influencing teething include:
- Age and Genetics: The timing of teething can vary based on familial patterns.
- Nutritional Factors: Calcium and vitamin D deficiencies may delay tooth eruption.
- Developmental Factors: Premature or delayed teething may indicate underlying issues, such as developmental delays or syndromes.
Symptoms of Teething
Common symptoms include:
- Swollen, tender gums
- Excessive drooling
- Irritability or fussiness
- Mild increase in temperature (not a fever above 100.4°F/38°C)
- Biting or chewing behaviors
When to Seek Professional Help
- High fever (above 100.4°F/38°C) or prolonged fever
- Severe irritability or inconsolable crying
- Refusal to eat or drink, leading to dehydration
- Symptoms like diarrhea, rashes, or vomiting (not typical of teething and may indicate illness)
- Unusual gum swelling, pus, or bleeding
Treatment Plan for Teething
Herbal Remedies for At-Home Teething Relief
Herbs can provide gentle support for teething symptoms. Some options include:
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) Tea: Known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Dip a cloth in cooled tea and allow the baby to chew on it.
- Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) Oil (Diluted): Offers mild numbing effects. Mix a drop with a carrier oil and gently rub it on the gums.
- Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) Extract: The natural alcohol content can provide numbing, and the scent is soothing. Rub a small amount on the gums.
When to Use Herbal Treatments
- Use herbal remedies for mild symptoms like gum discomfort or irritability.
- Avoid if the child has known allergies to herbs or unusual symptoms (seek professional advice instead).
Always consult a pediatrician before trying herbal remedies, especially in infants under 6 months old.
Christopher Hobbs:
“To reduce the swelling and pain that occurs in infants during teething, anti-inflammatory herbs, pain-relieving herbs and relaxing herbs are often recommended.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Herbal Remedies for Teething
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The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.