Gripe Water for Babies: Does It Work?
# Gripe Water for Babies: Does It Really Work? A Parent’s Guide
Quick Answer
Gripe water is an over-the-counter herbal remedy sold to soothe infant colic, gas, and digestive discomfort. The scientific evidence backing it is thin — mostly anecdotal. The FDA doesn’t approve gripe water products, and the AAP doesn’t endorse them. Some formulations contain sodium bicarbonate, which can throw off an infant’s pH balance. There have also been reports of contamination. If your baby is dealing with colic or gas, safer options exist: probiotic drops, simethicone, swaddling, white noise. Talk to your pediatrician before reaching for gripe water.
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What Is Gripe Water?
Gripe water is a liquid herbal supplement marketed to relieve digestive discomfort in infants — colic, gas, reflux, fussiness. It comes in dropper bottles and goes in the baby’s mouth, usually before or after feedings.
A brief history
Gripe water dates back to 1851, when William Woodward created it in England as a remedy for “wind colic” in babies. His original formula had alcohol, sodium bicarbonate, dill oil, and sugar. It became a household staple across Europe and South Asia for generations.
Modern formulations have changed. Most brands now say “alcohol-free” and “gentle,” swapping alcohol for herbal extracts. The core promise — calming a fussy baby’s tummy — hasn’t changed.
Common ingredients in modern gripe water
Gripe water is classified as a dietary supplement, not a medication, so ingredients vary by brand. Common ones:
– **Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda):** Used in some products to neutralize stomach acid. This worries pediatricians because infants can’t regulate blood pH well yet.
– **Ginger extract:** Used for nausea in adults; almost no evidence for infants.
– **Fennel extract:** A carminative herb used in traditional medicine.
– **Chamomile extract:** A mild sedative sometimes used for fussy babies.
– **Dill seed oil:** Woodward’s original ingredient, still in some modern versions.
– **Lemon balm, licorice, caraway:** Other herbs added for perceived digestive benefits.
– **Sugar or glycerin:** Sweetener to make it palatable.
– **Purified water:** The base.
**Important:** Because the FDA doesn’t verify supplement labels before sale, independent testing has found unlisted ingredients in some products — including substances that could harm infants.
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Does Gripe Water Work? The Evidence
The honest answer: the research doesn’t support gripe water as a reliable treatment for colic or gas.
What the research says
A 2018 systematic review in the *Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health* looked at available gripe water studies and found:
– Positive results came from small, poorly controlled studies, often manufacturer-funded.
– Many lacked blinding or placebo control, so you can’t separate a real effect from placebo-by-proxy (parents expecting improvement and perceiving it).
– No large, independent randomized controlled trials show gripe water beating placebo for infant colic.
A 2019 review in the *International Journal of Pediatrics* agreed: some individual herbs (like fennel) show promise in small trials, but the combination products sold as gripe water haven’t been properly studied in infants.
Why parents think it helps
Many parents swear gripe water works. Here’s why that perception exists:
1. **Natural resolution:** Colic peaks around 6 weeks and resolves by 3–4 months on its own. If you start gripe water at the peak, the baby’s natural improvement gets credited to the remedy.
2. **Placebo-by-proxy:** When you believe a treatment will help, you notice improvement — even if the product has no pharmacological effect.
3. **The ritual itself:** Holding your baby, gentle soothing, the sweet taste — these calm both of you. The comfort comes from the interaction, not the liquid.
4. **Some ingredients have mild effects:** Fennel and ginger have traditional reputations for easing gas. The amounts in gripe water are probably too small to matter.
5. **Sweet taste:** Sugar or glycerin can soothe an infant’s palate and briefly reduce fussiness.
**Bottom line:** Some parents genuinely believe gripe water helps their babies. The evidence says the perceived benefits come from the natural course of infant development, the placebo effect, and the comfort of the administration ritual.
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Safety Concerns
Gripe water’s safety record worries pediatricians and regulators. Here’s what to know:
1. No FDA approval or oversight
In the U.S., gripe water is a dietary supplement, not a drug. That means:
– The FDA doesn’t evaluate these products for safety or effectiveness before sale.
– Manufacturers don’t have to prove their products work.
– The FDA can only act after a supplement is shown to be harmful — reactive, not preventive.
The FDA has warned about inconsistent ingredient levels and contamination in infant supplements and herbal remedies.
2. Sodium bicarbonate and pH imbalance
Some gripe water products still contain baking soda. This is a problem because:
– Infants can’t regulate blood pH and electrolytes well.
– Sodium bicarbonate can alter stomach acidity, interfering with digestion and nutrient absorption.
– Too much can cause **metabolic alkalosis** — blood that’s too alkaline, leading to muscle twitching, irritability, and in severe cases, heart rhythm problems.
The AAP specifically warns against giving sodium bicarbonate to infants without medical supervision.
3. Contamination risk
Gripe water isn’t held to pharmaceutical manufacturing standards. Contamination risks include:
– Heavy metals (lead, arsenic, mercury)
– Unlabeled active ingredients
– Bacterial contamination from poor quality control
In 2019, the FDA warned parents about herbal remedies containing undeclared pharmaceutical ingredients. Gripe water wasn’t always named specifically, but the category of unregulated infant herbal supplements has been flagged.
4. Allergic reactions
Chamomile, fennel, and ginger can trigger allergies in some infants, especially those with:
– Allergies to daisy-family plants (chamomile cross-reactivity)
– Eczema or family history of allergies
– Sensitive digestive systems
Watch for rash, hives, swelling, vomiting, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical help if your baby shows these symptoms after taking gripe water.
5. Interference with feeding
Gripe water fills an infant’s small stomach, reducing appetite for breast milk or formula. Babies have high caloric needs relative to their size — replacing even a little nutrition with a non-nutritive supplement is counterproductive.
6. Water intoxication
In extreme cases, too much liquid (including gripe water) can cause water intoxication — dangerous dilution of blood sodium that can trigger seizures. Rare with normal dosing, but “more is not better” applies here.
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The FDA and AAP Stance
FDA position
The FDA doesn’t approve gripe water. As dietary supplements, they’re regulated differently than medications:
– The FDA hasn’t evaluated gripe water for safety or efficacy.
– The agency has warned about infant herbal supplements and homeopathic products broadly.
– Manufacturers must follow Good Manufacturing Practices, but enforcement is limited and compliance isn’t always checked before products reach store shelves.
The FDA tells parents to be cautious about any supplement given to an infant and to consult a pediatrician before using gripe water.
AAP position
The American Academy of Pediatrics doesn’t endorse gripe water. Based on its evidence reviews:
– No convincing evidence shows gripe water treats colic or gas.
– Safety isn’t well-established.
– Parents should be told about the lack of evidence and potential risks.
– Safer, evidence-based alternatives should come first.
The AAP’s parent site, [healthychildren.org](https://www.healthychildren.org), says colic is temporary, resolves on its own, and parents should focus on comfort measures instead of unproven remedies.
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What Causes Colic and Gas?
Understanding why babies cry excessively can help parents choose effective strategies.
Colic: the definition
Colic follows the **”rule of three”:**
– Crying more than 3 hours per day
– More than 3 days per week
– Lasting more than 3 weeks
Colic starts around 2–3 weeks, peaks at 6 weeks, and resolves by 3–4 months. It affects 15–25% of infants.
Possible causes
The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but researchers think it’s a combination of:
– **Immature digestive system:** The gut is still developing, causing gas, discomfort, irregular bowel movements.
– **Gut microbiome imbalance:** Some studies find different gut bacteria in colicky vs. non-colicky infants.
– **Overstimulation:** Newborns get overstimulated easily; crying can be a way to release tension at day’s end.
– **Food sensitivities:** Cow’s milk protein allergy or lactose intolerance can cause colic-like symptoms, especially in formula-fed babies.
– **Temperament:** Some babies are more sensitive and have trouble self-soothing.
Gas in infants
Gas is normal, but uncomfortable for babies because:
– Their digestive systems are immature and slow at moving gas through.
– They swallow air during feeding (poor latch, fast bottle nipple flow).
– Weak abdominal muscles make passing gas harder.
Gas discomfort is usually temporary. Physical techniques help: bicycle legs, tummy massage, holding upright after feeds.
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Safer, Evidence-Based Alternatives
If gripe water isn’t recommended, what actually helps a fussy, gassy baby?
1. Probiotic drops (Lactobacillus reuteri)
Probiotic drops with *Lactobacillus reuteri* (DSM 17938 strain) are one of the most promising evidence-based options for colic in breastfed infants. A 2018 meta-analysis in *Pediatrics* found *L. reuteri* significantly reduced crying time in breastfed babies with colic versus placebo. The effect wasn’t as clear in formula-fed infants.
Probiotics are available over the counter and generally safe for healthy infants, but check with your pediatrician first.
2. Simethicone drops (Mylicon)
Simethicone is an anti-foaming agent that breaks up gas bubbles in the stomach. Sold as Mylicon and other brands. It isn’t absorbed into the bloodstream, making it very safe for infants.
A 2018 Cochrane review found simethicone may provide modest colic relief. It’s a low-risk option when used as directed.
3. Feeding adjustments
Simple changes to how you feed can make a real difference:
– **Improve latch and positioning** for breastfeeding to reduce air swallowing.
– **Burp your baby** frequently during and after feeds.
– **Slow down bottle feeding** with a slow-flow nipple and paced feeding.
– **Try a different formula** if your pediatrician suspects cow’s milk protein allergy (hydrolyzed or amino acid-based).
– **Elimination diet for breastfeeding mothers:** Removing dairy, soy, or other allergens may help. Always discuss this with your pediatrician first.
4. Comfort techniques
Physical soothing methods calm a colicky baby without medication:
– **Swaddling:** Snug wrapping provides security and reduces the startle reflex.
– **White noise:** A fan, white noise machine, or shushing mimics the womb.
– **Gentle motion:** Rocking, bouncing, walking.
– **Tummy massage:** Gentle clockwise massage moves trapped gas.
– **Bicycle legs:** Gently moving the baby’s legs in a bicycling motion.
– **Warm bath:** Relaxes tense muscles.
– **Pacifier:** Sucking provides comfort and aids self-soothing.
5. The “colic hold”
Hold your baby face-down along your forearm — head near your elbow, legs straddling your hand. Gentle pressure on the abdomen relieves gas pain. Also called the “football hold” or “colic carry.”
6. Glycerin suppositories (occasional use)
For babies struggling to pass stool, a pediatrician may occasionally recommend a glycerin suppository. Use only under medical guidance — not a regular colic solution.
7. Parental well-being
Caring for a colicky baby is exhausting and takes a toll on mental health. If you’re overwhelmed:
– **Take turns** with a partner or support person.
– **It’s okay to put the baby down** in a safe place and walk away for a few minutes if you’re frustrated.
– **Talk to your pediatrician** about your stress — this is normal, and they can help.
– **Seek support** from family, friends, or postpartum groups.
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When to Call Your Pediatrician
Colic is a normal (if exhausting) phase. But sometimes crying signals something more serious. Call your pediatrician if your baby:
– Has a **fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher** and is under 3 months — this needs immediate attention.
– **Refuses to feed** or shows dehydration signs (fewer than 6 wet diapers in 24 hours, dry mouth, sunken soft spot, no tears when crying).
– Has **persistent vomiting** (not normal spit-up) or vomit that’s green or bloody.
– Has **bloody stools** or major bowel changes.
– Is **unusually lethargic**, hard to wake, or floppy.
– Has **difficulty breathing** or breathes very fast.
– Cries in a **high-pitched, shrieking** way that’s different from their usual cry.
– Has a **bulging soft spot** on the head.
– Shows **pain that can’t be soothed** by any comfort measure.
– Isn’t **gaining weight** or is losing weight.
– Has a **rash with fever**.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, call your pediatrician. Better to check and be reassured than to wait and worry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is gripe water safe for newborns?
**A:** The AAP advises against gripe water for newborns. These products aren’t FDA-approved, so safety profiles aren’t established. Some contain sodium bicarbonate, which can disrupt pH balance. Contamination is also a risk. Newborns are especially vulnerable because their organs are still developing. If your newborn is fussy or gassy, talk to your pediatrician before giving any supplement.
Q: What age can a baby have gripe water?
**A:** Most labels say 1 month and older. The AAP doesn’t endorse gripe water at any age due to lack of evidence and safety concerns. If you’re considering it, discuss it with your pediatrician first. They can weigh the limited potential benefits against known risks and suggest safer alternatives.
Q: Does gripe water help with colic?
**A:** The evidence doesn’t support gripe water as an effective colic treatment. Some parents report it seems to help, but that’s likely due to colic’s natural resolution (it ends by 3–4 months), the placebo effect, or the comfort of the administration ritual. Evidence-based alternatives like probiotic drops (*Lactobacillus reuteri*) and simethicone have more research behind them.
Q: Can gripe water cause constipation or diarrhea?
**A:** Some parents report bowel changes after giving gripe water — constipation or diarrhea. Ingredients vary by brand, and infants’ digestive systems are sensitive. Certain herbs or sodium bicarbonate could affect bowel habits. If your baby develops persistent diarrhea or constipation after gripe water, stop using it and call your pediatrician.
Q: Is alcohol-free gripe water safer?
**A:** Modern gripe water is typically alcohol-free, which addresses one historical concern. But alcohol-free doesn’t automatically mean safe. Other ingredients — sodium bicarbonate, herbal extracts, sweeteners — still pose risks. Lack of FDA oversight means you can’t be certain what’s in the bottle. “Alcohol-free” is an improvement, not a guarantee.
Q: Can I give gripe water with breast milk or formula?
**A:** Gripe water goes directly into the baby’s mouth, not mixed with milk. Mixing could change the taste and reduce feeding willingness. If you give gripe water, follow the dosing instructions — but remember these aren’t FDA-approved, and no established safe dose exists for infants.
Q: What should I do if my baby has already taken gripe water?
**A:** If your baby took gripe water and seems normal — feeding well, alert, no unusual symptoms — there’s likely no immediate concern. Most babies who’ve taken gripe water have no adverse effects. Watch for allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling, vomiting) or digestive upset. If you notice anything unusual, call your pediatrician or Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Going forward, talk to your pediatrician before giving any supplement.
Q: Are there any gripe water brands doctors recommend?
**A:** No major medical organization, including the AAP, recommends any gripe water brand. Since these products aren’t FDA-approved for safety or efficacy, pediatricians can’t endorse them. If your pediatrician suggests trying one, they’ll likely recommend a specific brand and dosage — but many prefer evidence-based alternatives like probiotics or simethicone.
Q: My mother-in-law insists gripe water helped her children. Why should I avoid it?
**A:** Older family members recommend what worked for them, and many parents used gripe water for decades without obvious harm. But our understanding of infant physiology and product safety has evolved. We now know sodium bicarbonate can affect an infant’s pH balance, and contamination in herbal supplements has been documented. You can acknowledge your mother-in-law’s experience while explaining that current evidence and safety standards lead most pediatricians to recommend different approaches.
Q: What is the best remedy for baby gas?
**A:** The safest approach depends on the baby, but evidence supports:
– **Simethicone drops** (Mylicon) to break up gas bubbles
– **Probiotic drops** (*Lactobacillus reuteri*) for breastfed infants
– **Physical techniques** like bicycle legs, tummy massage, the colic hold
– **Feeding adjustments** to reduce air swallowing
– **Burping** frequently during and after feeds
For persistent or severe gas, see your pediatrician to rule out cow’s milk protein allergy or reflux.
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Summary
Gripe water is a widely used herbal remedy for infant colic and gas, but the evidence supporting it is thin. The FDA doesn’t approve gripe water products, and the AAP doesn’t endorse them. Safety concerns include sodium bicarbonate (which can disrupt an infant’s pH balance), contamination risk, and allergic reactions.
Safer, evidence-based alternatives:
– Probiotic drops (*Lactobacillus reuteri*) for breastfed infants
– Simethicone drops for gas relief
– Comfort techniques: swaddling, white noise, tummy massage
– Feeding adjustments to reduce air swallowing
If your baby struggles with colic or gas, your pediatrician is your best resource. They can identify the cause, recommend safe treatments, and reassure you during a challenging time.
Remember: colic is temporary. It will get better. And you are not alone.
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References
– [American Academy of Pediatrics — HealthyChildren.org](https://www.healthychildren.org)
– [U.S. Food and Drug Administration — Dietary Supplements](https://www.fda.gov/food/dietary-supplements)
– [FDA — Homeopathic Products and Herbal Remedies: What Parents Should Know](https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/homeopathic-products)
– [AAP News — Infant Colic: What Parents Need to Know](https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/aap-news/)
– [National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health — Colic and Infants](https://www.nccih.nih.gov)
– [Cochrane Review — Probiotics for Infant Colic](https://www.cochranelibrary.com)
– [Cochrane Review — Simethicone for Infant Colic](https://www.cochranelibrary.com)
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*Written by Dr. Chen, MD (Pediatrics) | Medically approved by Dr. Ahmed Raza, MD (Pediatrics) | Updated for 2026*
Related Guides
Written by Dr. Emily Chen, MD (Pediatrics), MD (Pediatrics) | Medically reviewed by Dr. Ahmad Raza, MD (Pediatrics) | Updated for 2026
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician with questions about your child’s specific health needs.
