Pediatric
Colic — infant
Colic is defined as crying >3 hours/day, >3 days/week, for >3 weeks in an otherwise healthy infant. Peaks around 6 weeks, usually resolves by 3-4 months. Devastating for parents; benign for babies.
Key points
- ✓Fennel-seed tea given in small amounts (via bottle or dropper) has pediatric trial evidence
- ✓Probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri has RCT evidence specifically for colic
- ✓Homeopathic Colocynthis 30C for the doubled-over cramping baby
- ✓Babywearing and motion (walking, rocking) calms most colic attacks
- ✓Elimination of cow's milk from maternal diet helps some breastfed babies
Supportive herbs
Homeopathic remedies
Lifestyle & diet
Rotating soothing techniques (swaddle, swing, shush, side-hold, suck — the "5 S's" of Harvey Karp). Parents need breaks — colic is exhausting and support is essential.
When to see a clinician
Any "colic" with vomiting (especially green/bile), weight loss, blood in stool, fever, or persistent distress beyond typical feeding discomfort — rule out reflux, milk protein allergy, intussusception.