In traditional times, grandmothers and mothers used to highly depend on home remedies to ensure the well-being of newborn babies. Right from the body toning to grooming and shaping of nose and head, everything was done at home.
However, today with the rise of fast-paced lifestyles, we do not have much time to invest in making home remedies to take care of our newborns, hence it is a need to look out for products that contain natural ingredients and are safe for babies. The growing demand for taking care of newborns through organic approaches over harsh chemicals has been on the constant rise.
Ayurvedic rituals for newborn hygiene and grooming have gained prominence as parents seek gentle and chemical-free solutions for their baby's delicate skin. This shift notes a modern adaptation of traditional practices in response to the changing needs of parents in nurturing their little ones.
To know more about how to take care of newborns organically, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Ms Riddhi Sharma, Founder and CEO of BabyOrgano. Sharma helped us list down ways to take care of babies with natural products.
Ubtan for Gentle Cleansing
Skin care is not only necessary for us adults but for tiny babies as well. In their initial age, it is important to take care of their gentle and sensitive skin without using any harsh chemicals. Sharma said, “The essential Ayurvedic rituals for newborn hygiene involve the use of natural ubtan, a traditional herbal paste that has been used for centuries. Ubtan is a gentle cleanser made from ingredients that include chickpea flour, turmeric, and sandalwood and is known for its ability to exfoliate dead skin cells by leaving the baby's skin soft and bright. Additionally, this Ayurvedic habit is intended to be safe for babies by avoiding harsh chemicals that could harm their delicate skin.”
Also read: 8 Tips To Keep In Mind To Keep A Check On Your Baby's Health
Shampoo for Smooth and Healthy Hair
Newborns have thin, silky and little to no hair on their heads. As their scalp is in the developmental stage, it is very delicate, hence it is significant to not use any chemical based shampoos to wash their hair. Sharma said, “Choosing the right shampoo for your baby is important for maintaining smooth and healthy hair. Ayurvedic shampoos that are enriched with natural ingredients such as methi, aloe vera, shikakai, and bhringraj offer a mixture of nourishment and cleansing. These formulations are gentle on the baby's sensitive scalp and provide a soothing and non-irritating cleansing experience.”
Adding, she said, “These shampoos are also tear-free which reduces the chance of discomfort during bath time. These natural ingredients work together to strengthen hair follicles while also contributing to healthy hair growth and scalp nourishment in your baby's hair care routine.”
Oils for Growth and Development
Talking about the importance of oil massages to babies, Sharma said, “Incorporating massage oils into a baby's hygiene routine is an age-old Ayurvedic practice. Natural oils such as coconut oil, sesame oil, and olive oil are best for their beneficial properties. Massaging with these oils help in the development of bones and muscles, improve blood circulation, boost immunity, and also contribute to better sleep quality. Massaging your baby with these nourishing oils not only supports physical growth but also develops a soothing relationship between parent and child.”
Powder for Calming and Refreshing Effect
Tapping some powder on babies’ skin and sweat-prone areas helps in preventing skin infections. Explaining, Sharma said, “Ayurvedic powders offer a gentle and natural solution for the sensitive skin of your little ones. Powders provide a calming and refreshing effect as they contain cooling ingredients such as Shankhajiru and Lavender. It is especially useful in hot weather, when your baby's skin feels warm and sweaty and it also lowers the risk of rashes and skin infections. It can be beneficial in sweat-prone areas such as the diaper area or skin folds and provides comprehensive care for your baby's skin.”
To ensure your baby’s healthy grooming and hygiene, it is important to go back to the roots and opt for natural care by incorporating these ayurvedic practices. Additionally, Shrama advised to consult a healthcare professional before introducing any new products in your baby’s hygiene practices.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. We advise you to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before using any products for your baby.)