An herb commonly used in cooking, fennel is sometimes touted for relief of colic in infants.
Long used in herbal medicine, colic is said to protect against intestinal spasms and help eliminate gas (thought to be a key factor in the discomfort experienced by colicky babies). Although very few studies have looked at whether fennel can fight colic, some research indicates that fennel may be of some benefit to colicky babies. In addition, there's some evidence that taking a combination of fennel, chamomile, and lemon balm may help relieve colic.
Although a number of other natural remedies (including catnip, caraway, mint, and ginger) are also purported to help treat colic, further research is needed. However, there's some evidence that probiotics may help ease colic by curbing inflammation in the gut. Read the article: Fennel for Colic.
