What doctors call the "cutting" or the first "eruption" of teeth is commonly known as teething--the time when a baby's first set of teeth grows through the gums. As the teeth come in, the gums become inflamed and sore. Signs of teething often include irritability (crying and fidgeting), dribbling (because more saliva is produced), and troubled sleep. The baby will also become more clingy when held and try to chew on anything within reach. But no matter how fussy a baby gets, teething will not--as many people believe--cause diaper rash, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, prolonged loss of appetite, earache, coughing, or convulsions; all of these are symptoms of illness and should be evaluated by a physician. Also consult a doctor before giving a baby any herbal remedy.

Herbal Remedies

Chamomile To make a soothing tea, steep 1 teaspoon minced flowers in 2 cups boiling water, then strain. Put the warm tea in a baby's bottle and give it before meals--but no more than twice a day. Alternatively, place one to two drops of chamomile oil, which is available commercially, on a wet swab and apply to the gums twice a day.

Lemon balm To make a mildly sedative tea, steep 1 teaspoon leaves in 2 cups boiling water, then strain. Administer it warm in a baby's bottle before meals, but no more than twice a day.