SINCE childhood, I have heard of the popular remedy known as “Gripe Water” that was often given to crying infants based on the belief that it relieves stomach pain and helps them sleep soundly. My father used to buy it from Al-Mishaan Pharmacy on Palestine Street (formerly Al-Gharaballi Street), and for years it was a household staple in Kuwait. That was until it was discovered that the formula contained alcohol, likely the ingredient that soothed colic and lulled babies to sleep. In response, our wise government banned the import of Gripe Water, allowing only alcohol-free versions in the market.
What those behind the ban may not have realized is that countless products, including medicines, cosmetics, dyes, and even some bullets, contain substances derived from pigs. In a previous article, I discussed the widespread prevalence and importance of substances such as alcohol, which plays a significant role as a solvent, preservative, and effective aid in various products. Alcohol is commonly used in many medications, including cough syrups, cold treatments, Vicks Formula, liquid Tylenol, and more.
In fact, both the United States and the European Union produce around 200 prescription and over-the-counter medications that may contain up to 85 percent alcohol, particularly in mouthwashes and toothache solutions. Alcohol also appears in many foods, often in small amounts due to fermentation or processing. Common examples include breads, hot dog and burger buns, rye, and fruit juices such as grape, apple, and orange, especially if left to ferment or exposed to heat. Other foods like kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, soy sauce, pure vanilla extract, mustard, and even white wine vinegar contain alcohol.
In short, alcohol is not only present in a variety of liquid medications but also in many everyday foods, especially those involving fermentation, yeast, or certain flavor extracts. In a recent article, I highlighted the importance of being more tolerant of various substances in efforts to combat the spread of dangerous drugs. Returning to the topic of Gripe Water, its history is neither surprising nor unusual. The confusion surrounding it likely arises from the similarity between the English word “gripe” and the Arabic word “ghareeb,” which means strange or amazing. Gripe Water has been produced by several European and American companies for years, each adapting its formula based on the needs of its specific markets or customers.
The word “gripe” refers to clinging tightly to something, choking, or experiencing colic. However, caution should be exercised when using Gripe Water with newborns, as it is not recommended for infants under one month old. Despite some potential side effects, the FDA has approved Gripe Water as a dietary supplement for many years, meaning it does not require regulation or monitoring regarding its safety and effectiveness.
By Ahmad alsarraf
email: [email protected]
