Gripe Water Side Effects in Babies

While no studies have evaluated the safety or efficacy of gripe water as a solution to these problems, many parents-- including myself-- swear by these popular herbal concoctions. Unfortunately, like all drugs and supplements, gripe water can cause side effects and other complications.

Fennel is one of the most common gripe water ingredients because it effectively reduces gas pain and relaxes spasms in the colon. However, this dill-like plant contains anethole, and other estrogen-like compounds. These may cause problems for a baby's developing endocrine system.

There are at least a few reports of thelarche-- premature breast development-- in babies who consumed fennel teas and gripe water on a regular basis. Parents can prevent this gripe water side effect by using fennel-containing gripe water sparingly.