Kids' health10 min
Warm Ajwain Potli for a Child's Gassy Tummy
A small cloth bundle of dry-roasted ajwain, warmed and gently pressed around a child's tummy, a grandmother's remedy for gas and colicky discomfort.
The Ayurvedic view of ajwain
Ajwain (carom) seeds are sharp, hot and aromatic. In Indian homes they are roasted, chewed, boiled in water or tied in a warm cloth for gas, heaviness and chest congestion.
Dry heat from a warm ajwain potli is a common Indian way to comfort a gassy child. Nothing is swallowed, which makes it gentle for young children, but temperature must be checked carefully because children's skin burns easily.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp ajwain
- A clean cotton handkerchief
How to prepare
- Dry-roast ajwain on a tawa for a minute and tie it in the cloth.
- Check on the inside of your wrist that it is only comfortably warm.
How to use
- Press gently around the navel in circles for a few minutes.
- Combine with burping and gentle tummy massage.
Helpful habits
- Dry-roast a small batch and keep it in a glass jar for the week.
Precautions
- Never use a hot potli; test every time. See a doctor for vomiting, a swollen hard tummy, fever, blood in stool or a baby who will not feed.
- It is heating; use small amounts if you get acidity or mouth ulcers.
- For babies and children under five, ask the paediatrician first.
- Traditional use; scientific evidence is limited. Do not stop prescribed medicine.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use it on a newborn?
- Ask your paediatrician first; newborn skin is very delicate.
How often can I use it?
- Once or twice a day when the child is uncomfortable.
Can ajwain be taken every day?
- A pinch with food is normal; medicinal amounts are for a few days.
