It's something to help the baby pass gas. A lot of americans use karo syrup instead but gripe water is sold mostly here. I've never seen karo syrup here. They have gripe water with or without alcohol too. I gave it to my son a bit but the non alcohol one.

Gripewater is a godsend... Lol... I am suprised some people do not know what it is! I have no cildren of my own, but working in child/health care I have used it alot. It does no harm as long as you follow the indications.