Health & Life

The Ancient Secrets to Soothe a Startled Baby

"It's not uncommon for young children to startle easily in their sleep, leaving parents exhausted and concerned. While there are numerous folk remedies available, this article delves into the most effective methods to address this issue and provides valuable insights for desperate parents seeking a peaceful night's rest for their little ones."

Administrator

15 July, 2024

It’s common for newborns to experience sleep startle reflex, and there are some folk remedies that parents can try on top of medical treatments to help reduce this.

Note: The content below is for reference only. Please consult a doctor or trusted expert before applying any of these methods.

1Reasons Why Newborns Startle in Their Sleep

Typically, startling is a natural reflex for infants, indicating the development of their sensory, motor, and coordination skills. This condition is not harmful and will subside as the child grows older.

Reasons for newborn sleep startle reflex

There are a few physiological and pathological reasons why newborns may startle in their sleep, which parents should be aware of.

Physiological reasons:

Change in environment: The outside world is very different from the womb, and this can cause newborns to easily startle, feel cold, hungry, or be stimulated by factors such as light, sound, and taste.
Incomplete brain development can make newborns more susceptible to stimulation and startle reflexes.
Moro reflex is a natural reflex in infants from 2 to 6 months old.

Pathological reasons:

Calcium deficiency can lead to convulsions in newborns.
Anemia can cause fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and startle reflexes.
Neurological disorders such as epilepsy and encephalitis can also be factors.

2Folk Remedies to Reduce Sleep Startle in Newborns

Use Orange or Tangerine Peels

Orange and tangerine peels contain natural essential oils that can help soothe and relax newborns, promoting better sleep and reducing startle reflexes. Parents can place a few pieces of orange or tangerine peel in the baby’s room to create a calming environment.

Make a Lion’s Ear Pillow

Another folk remedy is to make a pillow filled with lion’s ear leaves and cotton for the baby to sleep on. To do this, dry lion’s ear leaves in a cool, shady place, avoiding direct sunlight. Then, mix the dried leaves with cotton in a 1:1 ratio and stuff them into a pillowcase.

Making a lion’s ear pillow for better sleep

Hang Garlic at the Bedside

According to folk beliefs, garlic is thought to ward off evil spirits and protect newborns from sleep disturbances. It is recommended to hang 5-6 dried garlic cloves at the head of the baby’s crib or bed to create a peaceful sleeping environment.

Place Mulberry Branches in the Room

Similarly, folk beliefs suggest that placing mulberry branches in the room can ward off negative energies and promote peaceful sleep. This is another folk remedy that parents can consider.

Placing mulberry branches in the room

Use Fresh Ginger

Fresh ginger has a calming effect on newborns and can aid in better sleep. Parents can crush fresh ginger and soak it in warm water, then use this water to gently wash the baby’s feet before bedtime.

Aromatherapy with Essential Oils or Bock Choy

Some parents find that aromatherapy with essential oils or bock choy can help soothe newborns and reduce startle reflexes and crying spells during sleep. Place a diffuser or pot of boiling water with these ingredients near the baby’s crib or bed. However, maintain a safe distance to avoid any risk of burns.

Aromatherapy with essential oils or bock choy

3Scientific Ways to Reduce Sleep Startle in Newborns

Create a comfortable, quiet, and cool sleeping environment.
Ensure the baby is well-fed before bedtime to prevent hunger.
Give the baby a warm bath 30 minutes before bedtime.
Gently massage the baby with baby-safe lotions or oils before sleep.
Dress the baby in loose, comfortable clothing that isn’t too tight.
Avoid screen time before sleep, including TV and phone use.

Scientific ways to reduce sleep startle in newborns

4Precautions When Using Folk Remedies for Sleep Startle in Newborns

Consult a doctor before trying any folk remedies to avoid adverse reactions or interactions with medications.
Some herbal remedies may cause allergies in newborns, so caution is advised.

Precautions when using folk remedies

This article has provided some insights into managing sleep startle reflexes in newborns. We hope this information helps parents better care for their little ones!

Source: Marrybaby.vn

Frequently asked questions

There are ancient secrets and techniques that can help calm a startled baby. You can try swaddling your baby snugly, which recreates the cozy environment of the womb and helps them feel secure. Another technique is to use white noise or gentle music to create a soothing atmosphere. Additionally, you can try motion by gently rocking or taking your baby for a ride in the car or stroller. Skin-to-skin contact and offering a pacifier can also help comfort your little one.

It’s normal for babies to startle easily, and it’s due to their developing nervous system. Their reflexes are strong, and they are still adjusting to the sensations and stimuli of the outside world. This typically improves as they grow older and their nervous system matures.

To minimize startles, create a calm and soothing environment for your baby. Keep the room quiet and dimly lit, and avoid sudden movements or loud noises. You can also try to anticipate and gently prepare your baby for transitions, such as slowly lowering them into their crib instead of putting them down abruptly.

In addition to the methods mentioned, you can try babywearing, which involves carrying your baby close to your body in a wrap or carrier. This provides comfort and helps regulate their breathing and heart rate. You can also try giving your baby a warm bath or gently massaging their tummy to ease any discomfort from gas or colic.

Signs of an overwhelmed or overstimulated baby include crying, fussing, turning their head away, clenching their fists, and arching their back. If you notice these signs, try moving to a quieter environment, reducing bright lights, and providing a calm and soothing atmosphere to help your baby relax.