teething infant


 A girlfriend recommended clove oil for my teething three month old. She said to apply it directly to her gums. It this safe? Should I dilute the oil? How much and how often?

 

Clove oil does contain natural compounds that can reduce pain when applied topically.  It has a long history of use in dental care primarily for relieving the pain associated with toothaches.  However, it is very important that the clove essential oil be prepared properly or else it can create many more problems than it will help. 

Straight clove essential oil will cause extreme irritation.  To prepare a preparation that is safe for your baby use the following guidelines.  Mix 3-4 drops of clove essential oil with 1 tablespoon of vegetable or olive oil.  This should dilute it enough so it is not irritating to the gums.  To be safe, test the preparation on your own gums first to verify it is not too strong.  This is really a great home remedy worth trying.





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As a certified and fully trained Naturopathic Doctor, Passero has trained and preceptored with some of the nation's leading doctors in the field of natural medicine, working under the guidance of MD’s, Chiropractors, Naturopaths and Acupuncturists. Furthermore, he is currently the Vice President of the Maryland Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

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