Why Honey, Gripe Water & Kajal Are Unsafe for Newborns

New Born Facts

Welcoming a newborn into the world is one of the most precious moments for any family. With that joy, however, often comes a flood of advice—especially from elders and well-wishers eager to share what they believe are tried-and-tested remedies for infant care. Honey for immunity, gripe water for digestion, kajal for eye protection—many households across India still follow these practices with good intention.

But what most new parents don’t realize is this: these traditions can be extremely harmful to newborns.

Modern neonatology has advanced tremendously, helping us understand infant physiology, immunity, and development in ways that were not possible decades ago. Trusted experts, including every leading Neonatologist in Vijayawada, strongly discourage these outdated remedies because newborns are incredibly delicate and vulnerable.

This blog explores why honey, gripe water, and kajal are unsafe, the hidden dangers behind these practices, and the safe, medically recommended alternatives for newborn care. Our goal is to empower every parent with evidence-based information—so babies receive the safest start to life.

The Reality of Newborn Care Today

Newborns are not miniature adults. Their immune systems are immature, their digestive systems are still developing, and their skin and eyes are extremely sensitive. The first 6 months of life—especially the first 28 days—are the most critical for ensuring lifelong health.

Contrary to traditional beliefs, a newborn does not need special foods, powders, oils, herbs, or substances to “grow strong” or “ ward off evil.” What babies truly need is remarkably simple:

• Exclusive breast milk

• Proper hygiene

• Gentle, evidence-based care

Anything beyond that may pose more risks than benefits—particularly honey, gripe water, and kajal, which continue to be misused widely.

Honey for Newborns: A Dangerous Tradition

For generations, people have given honey to newborns within the first few days or weeks of life. Some use it to “sweeten the baby’s tongue,” others believe it improves immunity or digestion. But science tells us a much more alarming story.

1. Risk of Infant Botulism

Honey can contain Clostridium botulinum spores, which are harmless to adults but extremely dangerous to newborns. Because infants' intestines are immature, these spores can multiply and release toxins that lead to:

• Muscle weakness

• Lethargy

• Poor feeding

• Constipation

• Weak cry

• Breathing problems

• In severe cases, life-threatening paralysis

This condition is known as infant botulism, and it is a medical emergency.

2. No Health Benefits for Babies

Babies under 6 months cannot digest honey or any added sugars. It does not improve immunity, appetite, or strength. Instead, early introduction of sweet substances may:

• Increase the risk of early tooth decay

• Disrupt feeding patterns

• Interfere with breastfeeding

3. High Contamination Risk

Most honey is unpasteurized. Even high-quality honey may contain environmental contaminants that a baby’s body cannot handle.

Medical Recommendation

NEVER give honey to a baby under 12 months—no exceptions.

Neonatologists in Vijayawada

Gripe Water: Harmless Tradition or Hidden Risk?

Gripe water is marketed as a cure for colic, gas, hiccups, or “tummy discomfort.” Many parents assume it is safe because they themselves consumed it as babies. However, gripe water—whether herbal, ayurvedic, or Western—comes with significant risks.

1. Not Scientifically Proven to Help Colic

There is no clinical evidence that gripe water relieves gas, colic, or stomach discomfort. Infants often show improvement simply because they are growing, not because the product works.

2. Digestive System Disruption

Newborns have a naturally developing gut. Introducing any external substance—herbal or chemical—may:

• Irritate the stomach

• Cause vomiting or diarrhea

• Trigger allergies

3. Risk of Contamination

Many gripe water brands have been found to contain:

• Alcohol

• Sugar

• Artificial flavors

• Sodium bicarbonate

• Undeclared herbs

• Contaminants or microbes

These can be very harmful to newborns.

4. Increased Risk of Infection

Gripe water is often not prepared under sterile conditions. Even small microbial contamination can lead to:

• Vomiting

• Fever

• Sepsis

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal discomfort

5. Interferes With Feeding

Babies who receive gripe water may:

• Reduce breast milk intake

• Experience altered gut flora

• Develop early food sensitivities

Medical Recommendation

Avoid gripe water entirely. For colic, pediatricians recommend safe, proven methods like gentle burping, adequate feeding intervals, and appropriate tummy-time supervision.

Kajal for Babies: More Harmful Than You Think

Applying kajal (kohl) is one of the most deeply rooted traditions across India. Many families believe it:

• Protects against evil eye

• Strengthens the eyes

• Makes eyes bigger

• Improves vision

But contemporary neonatology reveals the truth: kajal is extremely unsafe for newborns.

1. Kajal Contains Harmful Chemicals

Most kajal—homemade or store-bought—contains:

• Lead

• Carbon

• Zinc compounds

• Heavy metals

• Charcoal

• Ash

• Paraffin

Lead exposure is a major concern. Lead can:

• Impair brain development

• Reduce IQ

• Affect behavior and attention

• Accumulate in the body

• Cause long-term neurodevelopmental issues

2. Risk of Eye Infection

Babies have very delicate eyes. Kajal can introduce harmful bacteria or fungi into the eye, leading to:

• Conjunctivitis

• Blocked tear ducts

• Eye irritation

• Redness

• Watering

• Swelling

3. Kajal Often Spreads Into the Nose and Mouth

Babies rub their eyes constantly. Kajal can spread to:

• Nostrils (causing breathing difficulty)

• Mouth (risking ingestion of harmful metals)

4. No Vision Benefits

There is no scientific basis for the belief that kajal improves eyesight or eye shape. Vision development occurs naturally and does not require external substances.

Medical Recommendation

Avoid applying kajal under any circumstances. Keep the eyes clean using sterile cotton and warm water.

Why These Practices Are Still Followed

Despite the risks, these traditions continue because:

1. Cultural Influence

Families pass down rituals through generations, believing they are beneficial.

2. Emotional Pressure

New parents trust elders who appear experienced.

3. Lack of Awareness

Many do not know the science behind neonatal care.

4. Marketing & Misleading Claims

Products like gripe water are marketed as harmless, natural, or herbal.

5. Desire to Do “Something Extra” for the Baby

Parents often feel that natural or traditional remedies must be beneficial—even when they are not.

What Newborns Actually Need

Instead of unsafe remedies, babies only need:

1. Exclusive Breastfeeding

Mother’s milk provides:

• Ideal nutrition

• Antibodies

• Immunity

• Gut protection

• Bonding benefits

2. Proper Hygiene

Always ensure:

• Clean hands

• Clean clothes

• Sterile feeding equipment

• Dust-free environment

3. Gentle Touch & Supervised Tummy Time

Newborns thrive in calm, loving, safe environments.

4. Evidence-Based Medical Care

A qualified professional offers guidance tailored to the baby's unique needs.

Expert Guidance from a Neonatologist in Vijayawada

If parents ever feel unsure about newborn care, it is best to consult a specialist. A trusted Neonatologist in Vijayawada can explain what is safe, what is harmful, and how to care for a newborn during the first vulnerable months of life.

Parents should never rely solely on traditional advice or home remedies, especially when infants’ health is at stake. Modern neonatal science is built on decades of research and is designed to protect babies from avoidable dangers.

This is why leading neonatal centers, including Nori Hospitals, consistently advise against using honey, gripe water, and kajal for newborns.

Safe Alternatives to Traditional Remedies

For Colic or Gas

• Proper burping

• Adequate breastfeeding technique

• Gentle tummy massage

• Warm bath

• Swaddling

For Eye Care

• Keep eyes clean with sterile cotton

• Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, and scented products

For Immunity

• Exclusive breastfeeding for at least 6 months

• Vaccinations on schedule

• Maintaining hygiene

For General Protection

• Skin-to-skin care

• Comfortable clothing

• Avoiding overcrowded spaces

Protecting Newborns Through Knowledge

Parents naturally want the best for their babies. Many follow traditional remedies with love and concern—never realizing the risks behind them. But today, with access to accurate medical knowledge, it is possible to move beyond outdated practices and embrace safer, science-backed newborn care.

Honey, gripe water, and kajal do not protect newborns—they endanger them.

By choosing proper hygiene, exclusive breastfeeding, and professional guidance, parents can ensure that their babies receive the best possible start in life.

Let’s replace myths with facts, and tradition with safe, modern care.

Let’s keep our little ones truly protected.