As parents, we are always striving to be and do the absolute best for our babies. Unfortunately, there are many products on the market that are deemed “natural” and “safe” without truly being natural and safe for the sensitive systems of a baby or toddler.
Here’s a few of my favorite things that I have come to realize are SO helpful during those first few years of parenthood.
For Cradle Cap:
Coconut Oil is tough to wash out and a little goes a long way! However, among its many benefits it is anti-fungal. We would smear a little bit on, comb it through, then wash it out. Usually only took 2-3 baths before the cradle cap was cleared up.
No More Yeast Salve includes coconut oil, but it also includes several other anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory herbs to help relieve your little one's scalp.
For Diaper Rashes:
Typically, Earthley's Baby Balm's blend of lavender, calendula, and chamomile is enough to calm the inflammation and soothe the sensitive skin in the diaper area. Desitin is a last resort rash solution for me when we get those rare blistering rashes.
Baking Soda is the other go-to when it comes to the blistering rashes. I sprinkle some in the bath and let them soak. The baking soda neutralizes the acidity of the rash calming the irritation and redness.
Skip the mainstream baby powders. Most of them include ingredients such as talc that is known to cause long-term health problems. Truthfully, I don't believe any powder is really needed, but in the rare circumstances we need a little help staying dry down under, I reach for cornstarch.
For Teething:
Some babies can pop a tooth, and you'll never know. Other babies are sure to make sure the entire universe is aware of their pain and agony.
While some may say it's a myth that teething causes diarrhea and upset stomachs, I happen to believe that real experiences and patterns don't lie. If you notice that your little one has looser stools or is spitting up more while they're teething, don't fret. It's common and due to the excess drool that they are swallowing. Earthley's Infant Tummy Relief includes catnip, fennel seed, and ginger to ease and soothe the stomach while supporting gastrointestinal and gut health.
Teeth Tamer is my number one recommendation for tough teethers! It is made with whole cloves (safe for babies) and catnip. Cloves have a natural numbing effect on the gums while catnip is known to calm and relax the nervous system. My youngest LOVES this tincture and would drink a whole bottle, if I let him!
Another product I used with both of my boys is a baltic amber teething necklace. Baltic amber is a fossil resin produced by pine trees that grew in Northern Europe. The stones release microscopic amounts of oil as it warms with the body's natural temperature, which is absorbed into the skin and bloodstream. Baltic Amber contains succinic acid (anti-fever, anti-inflammatory), and wearing the necklace every day helps reduce the common symptoms related to teething such as red cheeks, fever, swollen gums, and diaper rash.
For Illness:
It's hard to be a parent in general, but it's especially hard when our babies are sick.
Feel Better Fast is the perfect tincture for supporting the immune system. It is safe for babies 6 months+ but can be taken by mom to pass through breast milk for younger babies. The herbs used are anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral!
Mullein Tea is a staple in our house when it comes to respiratory infections. I have given it to my children as young as 12 months (sweetened with a splash of apple juice). Mullein is anti-viral, but it's also an expectorant, meaning it helps the body expel excess mucus. I know, sounds gross, but getting the ick out is one of the fastest ways to get better!
I also love that we are lucky enough to have a nebulizer on hand. I use it for straight saline, hydrogen peroxide, and colloidal silver! I know it's not easy to get your little ones to wear the mask, but if you can at least hold it close to their face then breathing in that moist air will help their respiratory systems during infection.
For First Aid:
Let's be realistic, accidents happen. Bumps, bruises, and cuts...happen. It's part of life, and especially part of growing up as your babies learn how to walk, climb, and continue to grow and explore the world.
Arnica Salve is a great option for natural pain relief.
Black Drawing Salve is perfect for bug bites and stings.
All-Purpose Salve is your go-to swap for Neosporin for cuts, scrapes, and burns.
All-Purpose Spray is your hand sanitizer replacement, but it can be used to sanitize anything! (I know my kid isn't the only one who insists on chewing the grocery cart handle.)
**These 4 items can be purchased separately or as a bundle!
The other thing I love for bumps and bruises is a character ice pack. My mother-in-law is amazing and made a few small ones for us that have elephants on them. When the boy's fall or get hurt, we ask them if they need "Dr. Elephant" to come fix them up. Having a character can help ease the stress which aids in lowering inflammation and calming them down faster.
Bonus tools that can be customized to the child's needs:
Breastmilk! While I believe "fed is necessary," I do believe "breast is best." There are so many studies and scientific proof behind why breast milk is the best option for your baby. Aside from the obvious nutritional needs, breast milk's composition changes to support your baby's needs from an hourly basis to over the years as they grow up and those nutritional needs change. But breast milk is kind of a cure all that helps with all of the above topics! It includes immune supporting antibodies, and it's highly moisturizing. It can be used on rashes, cradle cap, cuts, boogery eyes, dry skin, etc.
While breast milk automatically customizes to the child needs, SEFI Broadcasts are something we can chat about and decide what frequencies would best support your child. For instance, we can create a playlist for teething that focuses on pain relief and stress reduction.
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