6. Remedies.—A few tablespoonfuls of hot water will often allay a severe attack of the colic. Catnip tea is also a good remedy.
A drop of essence of peppermint in 6 or 7 teaspoonfuls of hot water will give relief.
If the stools are green and the child is very restless, give chamomilla.
If the child is suffering from constipation, and undigested curds of milk appear in its fæces, and the child starts suddenly in its sleep, give nux vomica.
An injection of a few spoonfuls of hot water into the rectum with a little asafœtida is an effective remedy, and will be good for an adult.
CONSTIPATION.
1. This is a very frequent ailment of infants. The first thing necessary is for the mother to regulate her diet.
2. If the child is nursed regularly and held out at the same time of each day, it will seldom be troubled with this complaint. Give plenty of water. Regularity of habit is the remedy. If this method fails, use a soap suppository. Make it by paring a piece of white castile soap round. It should be made about the size of a lead pencil, pointed at the end.
3. Avoid giving a baby drugs. Let the physician administer them if necessary.