Fussy newborn which is also known as colicky newborn is the realistic fact of new family life. Parents usually get completely exhausted if the newborn child keeps on crying for no obvious reason. All the sleepless nights of parents convince them to discover the cause of the fuss created by the newborn. However more concentration is paid on how to calm the fussy newborn irrespective of the cause. The purpose is done of the child is calm at least for night long.

No specific cause to be mentioned but lots of techniques, maneuvers and procedures are adapted to calm the fussy newborn. One theory suggests that the baby is new to this world; the environment actually is not comfortable for him/her and by proving the environment just like the womb’s environment may soothe the fussy newborns. But this is just a proposal not universally accepted cause. Common causes of fussy newborns are still related to the causes of infant colic i.e.: associated with disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract including indigestion, trapping of air, intestinal cramping, loose stools, acid reflux, lactose intolerance and many more.

Many physical techniques like Rhythmic motion, Soothing sounds, Visual delights and distractions, Close physical contact and touching are very much helpful in soothing fussy newborns. However the key to success and comfortable nights for parents is the Gripe water.

While evidence of gripe water’s effectiveness has been limited to anecdotal accounts, there has been speculation about the reasons for the effectiveness of gripe water. The ingredients of gripe water speak for their effectiveness and relieve of some symptoms according to some studies.

Sodium bicarbonate decreases the acidity of the stomach, chamomile decreases irritability, anxiety and insomnia; fennel helps indigestion,; caraway for heartburn, gas and intestinal spasm; peppermint as an antispasmodic and for the stimulation of bile flow; cinnamon bark as a carminative, astringent, stimulant and antiseptic; clove bud oil as an antiseptic, antiviral, anti helminthes, and relaxant; blackthorn as an antispasmodic; dill weed seed oil for its antimicrobial properties and to increase appetite; cardamom seed oil as a smooth muscle relaxant.

It is a well recognized fact that sweet taste of the gripe water plays a vital role in calming the fussy newborn.

This shows that till now the best remedy for fussy newborns is gripe water.