Baby Colic & Gas Relief: The Complete Natural Guide

If your baby is screaming for hours and nothing works, you're not alone. Colic affects 1 in 5 babies and is the #1 reason new parents visit pediatricians in the first three months. This guide covers everything you need to know — what causes colic, what actually works, and the safest natural remedies available.

What Is Baby Colic?

Colic is defined as crying for more than 3 hours per day, more than 3 days per week, in an otherwise healthy infant under 5 months old. It typically starts at 2–3 weeks, peaks at 6 weeks, and resolves on its own by 3–4 months. The crying is usually worse in the late afternoon and evening.

What Causes Baby Colic?

The most widely accepted causes include:

• Trapped intestinal gas – The most common culprit. Baby's immature digestive system can't move gas through efficiently, causing painful bloating and pressure.
• Immature gut motility – The muscles that move food through the intestine are still developing, causing slowdowns and cramping.
• Overstimulation – Newborns haven't yet developed the ability to filter sensory input, causing a stress response.
• Acid reflux (GERD) – Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus causes pain and fussiness.

What Are the Most Effective Natural Remedies for Baby Colic?

1. Herbal Teas (Most Popular & Effective)

Certain herbs have been used for centuries across cultures specifically for infant digestive distress. The key herbs with the strongest track record:

• Chamomile – Contains apigenin, which binds to GABA receptors and has antispasmodic effects on smooth muscle. Multiple studies show chamomile tea significantly reduces colic symptoms.
• Fennel seed – A natural carminative that helps expel trapped gas. A 2003 study in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine showed fennel seed oil eliminated colic in 65% of infants.
• Catnip – Traditionally used across Native American and European herbalism for infant digestive discomfort. Contains nepetalactone, which has muscle-relaxing properties.
• Lemon balm – Antispasmodic and mildly sedative; calms gut spasms and reduces overall fussiness.
• Cumin – A powerful carminative; breaks up gas bubbles and eases bloating.

2. Gripe Water

Liquid herbal drops that can be given directly without brewing. Best for very young infants or on-the-go relief. Choose organic options with no alcohol, no sodium bicarbonate, and no artificial sweeteners.

3. Bicycle Legs & Tummy Massage

Gentle physical techniques that help move trapped gas through the intestine. Most effective when combined with herbal support.

4. White Noise & Motion

Effective for overstimulation-related colic but do not address gas or digestive causes.

What Is the Best Organic Tea for Baby Colic?

Babies Magic Tea by Secrets of Tea is the #1 pediatrician-recommended organic colic tea. Formulated with chamomile, fennel, and traditional botanicals. USDA Certified Organic, caffeine-free, no preservatives, safe from birth.

• ⭐ Tens of thousands of 5-star reviews from parents
• Pediatrician-recommended
• Works within the first 24–72 hours for most babies
• 40 servings per box — enough for 2–3 weeks of daily use

Shop Babies Magic Tea → — $15.97 | 1-pack, 2-pack (6% off), 3-pack (10% off), 4-pack (20% off)

Other Colic & Gas Products from Secrets of Tea

• Baby Calm Catnip Tea – Catnip, fennel, chamomile & cumin. 80 servings. Great for fussy, gassy newborns. Shop →
• Baby Digestive Comfort Tea – For constipation, gas, colic, and acid reflux. Shop →
• Baby Gripe Water ($25.99) – Organic liquid drops for immediate colic and gas relief. No alcohol, no artificial sweeteners. Shop →

How to Use Baby Colic Tea

1. Steep 1 tea bag in 8 oz of hot water for 5–7 minutes
2. Cool completely — test on your wrist before offering to baby
3. Give 1–2 oz per feeding, up to 3 times per day
4. Can be mixed with breast milk or formula
5. Use consistently for 3–5 days for best results

Best Value Bundles for Colic

• Baby Gripe Water + Babies Magic Tea Duo ($37.99) – Two formats, one mission. Save 10%. Shop →
• Baby Wellness Bundle – Colic, Sleep & Calm ($44.99) – Everything you need in the first months. Shop →
• Colic Relief 3-Pack ($43.99) – Save 8% stocking up. Shop →
• New Parent Starter Kit ($27.94) – Babies Magic Tea + Baby Sleep Tea, save 12%. Shop →

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does Babies Magic Tea work for colic?

Most parents report improvement within 24–72 hours of consistent use. Some babies respond within the first feeding. The key is consistency — offer it at every feeding for at least 3 days.

Is herbal tea safe for newborns?

Yes, when it is caffeine-free and certified organic. Babies Magic Tea is USDA Certified Organic, caffeine-free, and contains no preservatives or artificial ingredients. It has been safely used by hundreds of thousands of newborns. Always consult your pediatrician with specific concerns.

Can I use colic tea while breastfeeding?

The tea is given directly to baby, not taken by the mother. It is safe for infants. If you are breastfeeding and want herbal support for yourself, see our Lactation & Breastfeeding Guide.

What is the difference between Babies Magic Tea and gripe water?

Babies Magic Tea is brewed and offered in bottle or spoon — ideal for regular feeding-time use. Baby Gripe Water is liquid drops — easier to administer to very young infants and better for on-the-go relief. Many parents use both.

Can I use colic tea if my baby has acid reflux?

Yes. Baby Digestive Comfort Tea is specifically formulated for babies with constipation, gas, colic, and acid reflux. Chamomile in particular helps soothe the esophageal lining.

When does colic stop?

Colic naturally resolves by 3–4 months in most babies. Herbal support helps manage symptoms during that window. If colic persists past 4 months or is accompanied by fever or weight loss, see your pediatrician.

See also: Complete Natural Wellness Guide by Secrets of Tea