Due to the calming properties and being rich in antioxidants, teas are considered a healthy part of any diet. Nowadays, different kinds of teas are available in the market. Chamomile tea is one of the most popular teas available in the market. Even though considered as a healthy part of any diet, is it safe for giving babies? “Babies and tea?” must be the first question that arises when new mothers read this? Yes, through the ages, teas are given to babies to aid digestion. So is Chamomile tea for babies safe?
In fact, it is a safe alternative for gripe water. Gripe water, in some instances, was found to have sodium bicarbonate and alcohol in it. Here comes the importance of this herbal tea. This tea is full of rich minerals and antioxidants, which are good for our bodies. Chamomile tea suits babies and helps with their proper growth. It is mostly used to help combat colic in your little ones.
In This Article
- What is Chamomile Tea?
- Nutritional Facts About Chamomile Tea
- When Can Babies Have Chamomile Tea?
- What are the Advantages of Chamomile Tea for an Infant?
- How Much Chamomile Tea Can a Baby Have?
- Are There Any Side Effects of Chamomile Tea for Infants?
- How to Purchase Chamomile Tea?
- How to Prepare Chamomile Tea for Babies?
- FAQ’s
What is Chamomile Tea?
Basically, Chamomile is an herb which comes from a daisy-like flower of the Asteraceae plant family. It has many properties that help in sleep and digestion problems. Chamomile tea is a very popular tea that provides a variety of health benefits. It is widely known as a relaxing herb. Chamomile is used in beer and wine making.
Nutritional Facts About Chamomile Tea
Chamomile carries many compounds that benefit the baby. Following are important nutritional facts about chamomile tea.
- Chamomile Tea is noticeably rich in folate.
- It is well known for its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, antipyretic properties.
- It contains minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, and sodium.
[Read : What Are The Best First Foods For My Baby?]
When Can Babies Have Chamomile Tea?
Experts encourage giving only breast milk and formula to infants in their initial few months of life. The chamomile tea is said to be safe for babies six months plus, especially when you introduce solid food to them. You may also introduce it in small quantities after consulting with your pediatrician. Do not give this tea regularly to your child. It may affect their growth and weight.
What are the Advantages of Chamomile Tea for an Infant?
Chamomile tea provides various benefits to a baby. Basically, chamomile is a carminative herb. This means it has the ability to prevent gas formation in babies. This property alone indicates how beneficial this herbal tea is for unhappy babies. Here are some advantages of Chamomile tea for infants:
- It has properties that may aid digestion. Drinking this tea is soothing to the stomach. It is used to treat several digestive ailments. Chamomile tea quickly relieves your baby from gas.
- Chamomile tea contains an antioxidant, which helps in sleep.
- It is very beneficial for improving the heart health of the child. This tea helps in maintaining blood pressure.
- It boosts the immune system as well. Chamomile promotes bone density and helps to prevent osteoporosis.
- Chamomile tea can be used to relieve some of the symptoms of the common cold. It especially helps overtired babies.
- The other common benefits of chamomile tea are that it is a cheaper alternative than paying for over the counter medicines and treatments. Your child and your family can enjoy it too.
It is possible that your child may have some side effects, but that is nothing to worry about. But you cannot use it as a substitute for breast milk or formula. Your child can only use it as a medicinal remedy.
[Read : Does Adding Sugar In My Baby’s Food Help Her Digest Better?]
How Much Chamomile Tea Can a Baby Have?
The recommended dosage of chamomile tea for babies is one teaspoon which is to be fed at 30 ml every 24 hours to 48 hours. You should start with a smaller quantity. If you find that the baby loves it, you can increase the dosage. About 60-90 ml of chamomile tea per day is considered safe and sound and advantageous too. According to a study, 147 ml per dose is highly advantageous for the baby. You can use it whenever the baby has colic, digestion problems, fussiness, and other conditions. Before giving, just remember to consult with your doctor first.
Are There Any Side Effects of Chamomile Tea for Infants?
Despite the benefits, chamomile tea has some side effects too. It may cause drowsiness, allergies and when given in large doses, it can result in vomiting. But such reactions are very rare. Common side effects of chamomile include eye irritation, vomiting, severe allergic reactions, skin reactions, and other side effects may also occur. So, if you find any side effects of this tea on your child, talk to your physician for additional information.
How to Purchase Chamomile Tea?
If you are looking for the options of purchasing Chamomile tea for your baby, then here is an exhaustive list:
1. Online
You can purchase chamomile tea from any online store like Amazon, Snap Deal, Med Life, FlipKart, Big Basket, and other stores online. You can purchase a box of tea bags. In fact, purchasing online is the best option and at the best price with the best quality. They offer you top organic chamomile tea at pocket-friendly prices.
2. Physical Store
You can also choose the perfect chamomile tea from a reputed physical store for your child. Always choose a popular brand. Buying from a reputed brand and store gives a guarantee that you will get high-quality chamomile tea which is pure and is adulteration less.
3. Prefer Tea Bags
Always choose tea bags as they are covered in singular packets. You will get the best tea as these tea bags are not contaminated by bacteria at all. In case when you open the core packaging, there is no need to worry. You can purchase even after it as they are individually packed also. You should ensure to buy pure and healthy tea as sometimes it may affect the body of the baby.
How to Prepare Chamomile Tea for Babies?
You can prepare chamomile tea very easily by following some easy steps. First, you are required to boil water. Then put the chamomile tea bag inside a cup after pouring some water into it. Remove the bag after 10 minutes so that the water changes into lukewarm. You can give this tea to your baby either in small sips or using your child’s feeding bottle.
[Read : Bottle Feeding in Babies]
Chamomile tea is a healthy beverage. It is safe to drink and it has a delicious taste too and so, it is worth including in your baby’s diet. However, always tell your doctor about all the products you use for your baby.
FAQ’s
1. Can I Give Chamomile Tea to my 6 Month Old Baby?
Yes, you can. You can start giving this tea when you start juices. However, start slow.
2. Can I Add Any Flavors to my Baby’s Chamomile Tea?
No, it is not recommended. Flavors use herbs. Not all herbs are safe for small babies.
3. Should I opt for Chamomile Tea Bags or Leaves for my Baby?
Use tea bags. They are well processed. Leaves carry the risk of bacterial contamination.
4. How Many Times Can I Give Chamomile Tea to my Baby?
Do not give more than twice or thrice a day. Restrict quantity to 145 ml. consult your doctor before you can start giving this tea.
Read Also: Is Alkaline Water Safe For Babies?
