AP

In a tragic incident, a 3.5-month-old baby girl passed away due to a severe intestinal infection allegedly caused by the administration of ghutti, a traditional herbal remedy. The infant, who was given ghutti to ease common digestive issues, developed serious complications shortly after its use. Despite medical intervention, her condition deteriorated, leading to her untimely death. This heartbreaking case raises concerns about the safety of using unregulated herbal remedies on infants, particularly without proper medical guidance.

Ghutti is a traditional herbal concoction commonly given to infants in certain cultures, believed to aid digestion, improve immunity, and relieve issues like colic or constipation. While it has been used for generations, there are concerns about its safety, particularly regarding the side effects it may cause in infants. Since newborns have delicate systems, introducing herbal mixtures like ghutti without medical supervision can lead to potential health risks.

There are some side effects of ghutti in infants that parents and caregivers should be aware of:

1. Digestive Issues

While ghutti is traditionally used to ease digestive problems, it can sometimes have the opposite effect. The digestive system of infants is still developing, and introducing strong herbal mixtures may cause irritation or upset. Some babies may experience diarrhea, gas, or stomach cramps after consuming ghutti. If the ingredients in the ghutti are not properly balanced or if the baby has an unknown sensitivity to certain herbs, it could lead to digestive discomfort.

2. Allergic Reactions

Infants may have allergies or sensitivities to certain herbs, and ghutti often contains a variety of ingredients, including herbal extracts and spices. Allergic reactions in infants can manifest as rashes, difficulty breathing, or even anaphylaxis in severe cases. Since babies cannot express discomfort verbally, it’s important for parents to monitor any unusual changes in their infant's behavior after administering ghutti.

3. Risk of Contamination

Homemade or locally-sourced ghutti may not be prepared under hygienic conditions, increasing the risk of contamination. Poorly prepared or stored ghutti can contain harmful bacteria or toxins that may cause infections in infants. Their immune systems are not fully developed, making them more vulnerable to infections that can lead to severe complications, including fever, vomiting, and dehydration.

4. Overdose of Certain Ingredients

The dosage of herbal ingredients in ghutti may not be standardized, leading to a risk of overdose. For example, ingredients like honey, which is often used in some versions of ghutti, should not be given to infants under one year old due to the risk of botulism, a serious foodborne illness. Furthermore, some herbs may have active compounds that could cause toxicity if given in excessive amounts.

5. Delayed Medical Treatment

Parents who rely on ghutti for their infant’s ailments may inadvertently delay seeking proper medical treatment. For instance, symptoms such as prolonged crying, fever, or digestive issues could be signs of an underlying medical condition that requires prompt attention from a pediatrician. Relying on ghutti as a cure-all remedy could result in the worsening of the infant’s condition due to a delay in receiving appropriate medical care.

Breast milk is universally recognized as the best source of nutrition for infants in the first six months of life. It provides the perfect balance of nutrients essential for a baby’s growth and development, including proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Unlike formula or other foods, breast milk is easily digestible and contains antibodies that help boost the baby’s immune system, protecting them from infections, allergies, and illnesses. It also promotes healthy brain development and fosters a strong bond between mother and child.

During the first six months, infants’ digestive systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to digestive issues and allergies if introduced to other foods prematurely. Offering solid foods or other liquids too early may compromise their ability to absorb vital nutrients from breast milk.

Honey and sweeteners, in particular, must be avoided before the baby reaches one year of age. Honey can contain Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause infant botulism, a serious illness affecting a baby’s nervous system. Other sweeteners, including sugar, are harmful as they can lead to digestive discomfort and increase the risk of tooth decay later on.

While ghutti has been a part of traditional childcare in many cultures, modern parents should be cautious about its use. Infants have sensitive systems that may not respond well to herbal remedies, especially if not prepared or administered properly. Consulting a pediatrician before giving any herbal product, including ghutti, is essential to avoid potential side effects and ensure the well-being of the baby.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)