An inconsolable, violent bout of crying that typically erupts in the late afternoon and goes on for several hours. The diagnosis, especially if in addition to being distressed the baby sticks out their tongue, clenches their fists and pulls their legs up to their chest, is almost always the same: newborn gassy colic. A common and benign condition, but one capable of putting hapless parents through their paces, as they stand helpless and frustrated in the face of their baby's relentless screaming.

Remedies for colic in newborns

The good news is that the problem tends to resolve on its own over time, usually after the third month. The bad news is that there is no real "cure", but several natural remedies can be used to improve the situation. To begin with, it may be worth trying to correct the way the newborn feeds. An overly eager or frantic feed can encourage the swallowing of air and the resulting stomach ache. To address this, the baby can be put to the breast before they become too hungry, or the feed can be paused every now and then to allow them to burp. In any case, breastfeeding should never be stopped because of gassy colic. If a bottle is already being used, it is possible to opt for special anti-colic formulas, while also paying attention to the angle of the bottle, again to avoid the ingestion of air.

Massage

Massages are also very helpful, to be performed around the baby's navel, tracing a kind of semicircle over the taut little tummy. To increase the effectiveness of the massage, specific oils based on marjoram, chamomile and other medicinal herbs can be used, though it is always best to seek advice from your paediatrician. A baby carrier, especially in a "tummy to tummy" position, can also relieve the pain and soothe the crying.

Herbal teas

More controversial, however, is the use of "digestive" herbal teas made with fennel, chamomile or anise, which should only be given on medical advice, and in any case without sugar or other sweeteners and in limited quantities, to avoid any interference with breastfeeding.

Plenty of cuddles

Completely free of contraindications, on the other hand, are walks and relaxing baths, but the most effective remedy of all is a good dose of patience and plenty of cuddles. This is also because stomach ache may not be the real cause of the inconsolable crying: according to several paediatricians, genuine cases of gassy colic are actually quite rare, while most babies who cry a great deal are simply finding it harder to adjust to life outside the womb. All the more reason to cuddle them, massage them and carry them in a sling.