The amber necklace is a product popularly recommended for relieving colic, reducing discomfort caused by teething and improving the immune system, as amber, when in contact with the baby’s skin, could release succinic acid, which in turn in turn it would have anti-inflammatory and analgesic action. However, there is no scientific proof of the benefits of the paste or the anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential of succinic acid.
In addition to the lack of scientific evidence, the amber necklace could pose risks to the baby, as some necklaces do not have adequate resistance and can easily break when the baby pulls, which represents a greater risk of suffocation. Furthermore, as the baby often puts the necklace in their mouth and it is exposed to the environment, there is also a greater risk of infection. Therefore, it is important that the pediatrician is consulted so that the best way to alleviate the pain and discomfort felt by the baby can be indicated.
Possible benefits
The functioning of the amber necklace is based on the idea that the substance present in the stone, succinic acid, is released when the stone is heated by the body. Thus, this substance would be absorbed by the body and would result in anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which could have the following benefits:
- Relief from colic;
- Relief of discomfort caused by teething;
- Improves the immune system, helping to fight inflammation in the ear, throat, stomach and respiratory system.
However, there is no scientific evidence that succinic acid is released from the stone when heated, nor that it is absorbed by the body nor that, if it is absorbed, it is in ideal concentrations to provide benefits. Furthermore, there are no studies that prove the anti-inflammatory, analgesic or immune system stimulating effect of this necklace.
The improvement in colic or discomfort caused by teething in babies who used the amber necklace cannot be used as scientific evidence, as these situations are considered natural and improve throughout the child’s development. Therefore, due to the lack of scientific evidence related to its functioning and benefits, the use of an amber necklace is contraindicated.
Amber necklace risks
The risks of amber necklaces are mainly related to the material with which they are made, because some of the necklaces available on the market may have less resistance, so that when pulled by the baby, they may break, increasing the risk of suffocation, for example. Furthermore, if the collar is placed too tightly around the child’s neck or if it gets caught on an object, such as a crib or door handle, there is a risk of suffocation.
Another risk associated with the amber necklace is colonization by microorganisms, as the baby can place it in their mouth several times, touch it and the necklace is exposed to the environment. Therefore, although the microorganisms that colonize the necklace initially do not lead to the development of infection, if the baby has any changes in immunity or a wound in the mouth, there is a greater risk of complications. Furthermore, as it is made with a harder material, there is a risk of hurting the baby’s gums and causing irritation in the mouth.
Therefore, due to the risks associated with the amber necklace and the lack of scientific evidence regarding its benefits and effectiveness, the use of this product is contraindicated, and other safer, more effective and scientifically proven options are recommended to reduce the baby’s discomfort.
Ways to relieve baby’s pain
One of the safe ways recommended by pediatricians to relieve colic in babies is to massage the baby’s belly with light, circular movements to stimulate the elimination of gas, for example. If the colic does not go away, it is recommended to go to the pediatrician so that the cause of the colic in the baby can be investigated and the best treatment can be indicated. Discover other ways to relieve baby colic.
In the case of discomfort caused by the emergence of teeth, you can gently massage the baby’s gums with the tip of your finger, which must be very clean, or give cold toys, as this not only reduces discomfort, but also keeps the gums healthy. entertained. Find out other options to alleviate the pain of teething.
