Baby constipation and homeopathy: gentle solutions to discover

Constipation in babies is common. Most of the time it is benign, but it quickly causes concern among parents. Homeopathy can provide support, in addition to paediatric monitoring and validated treatments such as osmotic laxatives.

When do we talk about constipation in babies?

Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent, hard, dry and difficult to pass. They can also take the form of small balls and cause crying when they are passed. In infants, the interval between two bowel movements varies greatly, especially when breast-feeding. Some babies go several days without passing a stool, while maintaining good muscle tone, digestive comfort and weight gain.

The role of homeopathy: what the data say

International paediatric recommendations place laxatives, particularly macrogols, at the forefront of treatment for functional constipation. Dietary measures alone are not always enough to correct well-established constipation, but they are still useful for prevention and as a complement, especially after the start of diversification.

It is therefore essential to present homeopathy as a possible support for digestive comfort, and not as a sole treatment. It does not replace medical supervision or conventional treatments when the paediatrician deems them necessary.

Homeopathic remedies often used for constipation in babies

The remedies below are traditionally used. A paediatrician or pharmacist trained in homeopathy should always approve their use, especially before the age of 6 months.

Bryonia alba 5 CH: this is often suggested when the stools are very dry and hard, and the baby is tense, not very mobile and irritated. Current practice recommends 3 granules, 2 or 3 times a day, over several days, after dissolving in a little water.
Nux vomica 5 CH: this remedy is more suitable for ineffective expulsive efforts, with restlessness and discomfort at the end of the day, sometimes after a change of milk. It is generally taken as 3 granules 2 times a day, then spaced out according to improvement.
Lycopodium clavatum 5 CH: this is well suited to bloating, gas and difficult bowel movements following diversification or a change of milk, with marked discomfort in the evening. It is often given as 3 granules, 1 or 2 times a day, as a supplement to dietary measures.
Graphites 5 CH or Silicea 5 CH: these remedies come into play when the stools become bulky, very hard, with anal fissure or fear of going to the stool. They are always combined with a strategy to soften the stools (laxatives, hydration, local care).

In the case of chronic constipation, some homeopathic practitioners consider a more comprehensive treatment of the condition . They take into account the baby’s sleep, appetite, emotional sensitivity and digestive history.

A healthy lifestyle to prevent constipation

A healthy lifestyle remains the key to supporting baby’s transit and limiting episodes of constipation.

Hydration: before the age of 6 months, breast or infant milk normally covers baby’s needs. Any addition of water should be on medical advice. After 6 months, small quantities of water between meals become possible.
Diet: once diversification is underway, fibre-rich fruit compotes (prunes, pears, apples, apricots) and age-appropriate vegetables will help transit. At the same time, constipating foods eaten in excess should be limited.
Movement and massage: pedalling your legs, kneeling on your chest and massaging your stomach in a clockwise direction will help your bowel movements to progress.

Finally, a calm environment, listening to baby’s signals and, later on, sympathetic support when potty training limit the fear of having a bowel movement. This holistic approach combines medical care, a healthy lifestyle and supervised homeopathy to help baby regain a comfortable bowel movement.

FAQ – Constipation & homeopathy

How do you relieve constipation in a baby?

The most commonly used approaches combine gentle laxatives, dietary measures, tummy massages and homeopathy, in addition to medical monitoring if necessary.

Can several natural remedies be combined?

Yes, certain approaches can be combined, as long as the dosage is respected and advice is sought from a health professional.

What treatment is available for constipation in babies?

Nux vomica and Bryonia are the most commonly used, but it is important to observe baby’s stools and behaviour in order to adapt the homeopathic remedy.