Using betel leaves for newborns is a traditional health care method that many mothers apply. However, nowadays, many mothers are still wondering whether to use betel leaves for newborns. If so, what is the safest way to use betel leaves for newborns?
1. What are the benefits of using betel leaves?
Some scientific studies have been conducted, and the results show that in about 100g of betel leaves, there is up to 2.4% essential oil. Betel leaf essential oil has extremely strong antibiotic properties and can kill bacteria such as staphylococcus, streptococcus, coliform bacteria, and dysentery bacteria.
According to some folk experiences, using betel leaves for newborns is effective in preventing constipation, reducing pain, indigestion, abdominal pain due to bloating, treating cough, protecting teeth, disinfecting, treating bronchitis, and fungal infections.
Especially for postpartum mothers, betel leaves can be used to prevent melasma, take care of health, and enhance beauty thanks to the 2.3% mineral salts, 61% carbohydrates, and 2.3% fiber in betel leaves.
2. Should betel leaves be used for newborns?
In fact, many families, when they see their newborns crying or having bloated stomachs, have used betel leaves to warm and then apply them to the baby's abdomen. In some cases, after applying the warmed betel leaves, the baby gradually stops crying and plays calmly. However, many babies continue to cry, and parents have to take them to see a doctor to find out the cause.
Although it is said that using betel leaves for newborns can bring many benefits, many mothers still wonder whether to use betel leaves for newborns. According to specialists, using betel leaves for newborns is a folk remedy that has not been scientifically proven, so parents need to carefully consider before applying it to their babies.
In particular, some opinions also suggest that using betel leaves for newborns is not safe because if the leaves are heated and then applied to the baby's delicate skin, it can cause burns. If the baby is premature and weak, it is even more inadvisable to use betel leaves.
There is no scientific evidence to prove whether using betel leaves for newborns is effective. However, parents should note that this method can cause side effects, such as making the baby's skin red due to camphor and menthol in the betel leaves, which can easily form steam that condenses under the leaves and then seeps back into the baby's skin. This is very dangerous as it can cause pneumonia in babies. If parents apply the method incorrectly, it can lead to infections or even endanger the baby's life.
3. What should be noted when using betel leaves for newborns?
Some notes when using betel leaves for newborns:
- When using betel leaves for newborns, always be cautious about the temperature. Newborns' skin is extremely sensitive, and even slightly hot temperatures can cause burns.
- Do not use betel leaves for newborns if the baby has scratches or swelling on their body.
- Do not use betel leaves over charcoal or in a closed room as it can harm the health of both the mother and the newborn.
- Giving newborns betel leaf juice to drink is completely wrong and can seriously affect the baby's health.
Using betel leaves for newborns is one of the traditional remedies passed down from ancient times. While utilizing folk experiences in caring for newborns is not wrong, mothers need to carefully consider any method before applying it. Do not act on impulse as it can affect the child's health and future development.
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.
