There is no way to ‘cure’ your teething. It’s not a condition, but a right of passage for all. There are old-fashioned ways to ease your child’s discomfort. Many parents want to go back to traditional or homeopathic methods to help their child through the pain of teething.

Let’s see…

Many are concerned about the long-term side effects and harm that painkillers or ‘gum gels may cause. Many are also averse to the idea of a brightly colored piece of plastic being permanently embedded in their child’s mouth. Diisononylphthalate teething rings are not only unattractive, but also have concerns.

This chemical is used in the manufacturing process as a softening agent. Most teething toys contain between 10 and 20 percent phthalate. This chemical is thought to cause cancer and babies could inhale it as they chew on the ring. Many European countries have banned the use of this chemical in the manufacture soft toys. The U.S. warning did not prohibit the sale of toys containing phthalate by Target, Walmart, K-mart and K-mart.

Let’s understand it

For generations, parents have provided cold food for their toddlers’ teething needs. It’s still one of the best ways to relieve sore gums, especially in the early stages of tooth development. It is a common practice to chew on cold vegetables, particularly carrots. Even giving your child cold, damp cloths to chew on is a good idea. However, make sure the cloth is clean.

Wrapping a piece of cold apples in a cloth is one country remedy. Clove oil can be diluted in vegetable oil to make it an ancient remedy. The solution can be applied directly to the child’s gums using a cotton swab or finger. Clove oil is well-known for its ability to ‘numb’ the skin. One word of caution: Too much pure oil can burn the gums.

Bread has been used as a pacifier or king of teething rings for centuries. Whole-meal breads, such as the old-fashioned variety, work best. Bread must be hard and not easily broken down in the baby’s mouth. This can cause choking. Bagels are still a popular choice for teething rings. Homeopathic remedies are safe and non-toxic ways to relieve pain and make your baby happy.

Remember

It is important to seek professional guidance and advice before using a homeopathic remedy. The Rev. Apis mellifica was first discovered in 1835 by the Rev. Apis mellifica literally means whole honeybee. It was easy to prepare and it worked. The preparation has been improved over the years. Apium virus (removed from venom sack), and later Apis Venenum purum (pure honey venom) were some of these improvements.

This preparation is still available for purchase. You can also buy other homeopathic products, Hyland’s Teething tablets being the most well-known. An old European belief states that amber worn close to the skin can reduce the pain of teething. Although there is no scientific evidence to support this belief, it seems like it could work. However, be careful with your baby as the beads may come loose and cause choking hazards. Distraction is the best and most trusted way to ease your child’s toothache pains. This is a great way to play with your baby and works well for most babies.