Ghutti is a commonly used formula in Indian households for babies to relieve colic, flatulence, constipation, diarrhea and indigestion. It has been a tradition for a very long time. It is a well-known Ayurvedic medicine made with natural ingredients like aniseed, caraway, ginger, and fennel for infants and toddlers. When a baby suffers from colic, elders often suggest ghutti as they believe it keeps digestive problems away because of its natural ingredients.
But the question is, Is The Ghutti Safe For Newborns?
The answer to this is NO.
The doctors strictly condemn using ghutti or anything other than breast milk up until six months of age.
Dr. Madhavi Bharadwaj, a renowned pediatrician, on the request of a mother who lost her 3.5-month-old daughter to severe intestinal infection caused by Ghutti, posted the video on Instagram, addressing the myths. She explained how ghutti can be harmful to newborns.
Do we need Ghutti?
Dr. Madhavi starts by highlighting the side effects of Ghutti:
Risk of Infections: We do not know how hygienically it is made?, What are the ingredients?, and Whether honey is one of the ingredients. If yes, then it can lead to botulism which could be life-threatening.
Breast milk rejection: because of the added sweetener baby rejects breast milk that is neutral in taste.
Sedatives: morphine derivatives or alcohol in ghutti cause sedation that is harmful to nervous or brain development.
Any Benefits?
None
What else to give?
She emphasized the benefits of Breast Milk:
Breast milk has digestive enzymes, antibodies and infection-controlling properties that will help in colic.
To pass on elders' qualities or incorporate sweets, use breast milk instead that way both the values of tradition and the health of the baby can be maintained.
In the end, Dr. Madhavi suggests not giving gripe water, ghutti, rock sugar water and honey to infants. It is best to give breast milk to a baby up until the age of six months. Especially, honey should not be given till one year of age.
Conclusion
Breast milk alone is beneficial for newborns. If the infant is suffering from colic, diarrhea, or some other condition consult a doctor rather than going for ghutti, or gripe water to prevent further severe infections.
Note: This content is purely informational and isn’t medical guidance. It shouldn’t replace professional medical counsel. Always consult your physician regarding treatment risks and benefits.