When it comes to treating our children when minor illness arises and maintaining their health in the most natural way possible, herbs for kids are definitely the way to go. Personally I like to use whole foods as their medicine but they do get ill from time to time and they certainly do get cuts and scrapes as all kids do. Herbal remedies have a place in our home as does teaching children about herbs and other medicinal plants and how to forage for them.
Here are some easy and safe herbs to introduce your children too…
Peppermint – Used as a tea for many generations, peppermint relieves stomach pains and bloating caused by gas and colic. To prepare a cup of peppermint tea, pour hot water into two teaspoons of dried leaves of the peppermint plant; cover the mixture for about 10 minutes, strain, and then drink. Also, let the child inhale the steam prior to drinking, which ought to calm the senses.
Peppermint is also good for headaches due to its relaxing effects and asthma for its menthol properties. It is even a proven cure for allergies!
Echinacea – When choosing Echinacea, opt for the purpurea and pallida varieties, as these have been proven effective. These herbs are effective in boosting the immune system especially in fighting off respiratory infections in children, which is thought to be by virtue of its ability to activate white blood cells.
Herbal formulations in the form of tincture-alcohol mix are available. Always follow manufacturers dosage recommendations as strengths will vary.
Chamomile – This is an herb that has many uses and come in many forms, which makes it one of the safest and most accessible herbs for kids. Taken orally, it can relieve symptoms of flatulence and diarrhea, lessen stomach aches and colic, prevent travel sickness, treat common colds and coughs, and even enhance appetite.
When used topically, chamomile is likewise beneficial in the reduction of skin inflammations as well as those found in the mouth and throat. It can also be used to treat minor burns and wounds, which makes it a good addition to the herbal medicine kit for children in the house.
A word of advice on the use of chamomile: Never use two formulations topical and oral at the same time as overdoses can occur.
Garlic – Children might negatively react to garlic especially with its strong odor and aftertaste. However, garlic has strong antiviral and antibacterial properties that can be used to treat ear infections. And with ear infections common in growing children, garlic can be one of your best allies.
To use as ear infections treatment, opt for garlic capsules. Either dissolve the capsules in soup for tasty medication or swallow as is. However, always follow dosage instructions as strength will also vary according to age.
In all these herbs, always make sure that the formulations are always followed. Though the side effects associated with herbs are generally minimal, of at all, when it comes to the safety of your children, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Consulting with a naturopathic doctor or a master herbalist for more concrete solutions is always a good idea.
Also make sure to check out my post on making a Natural First Aid Kit and for more general knowledge of herbs check this fun herbal board game, Wildcraft.
Ohh I love teaching my son about herbs. He loves it too. Here are a couple great links about making an herbarium and herbal lessons for kids! Maybe people can benefit from them!
http://fieldoftansy.blogspot.com/search?q=herbarium
http://lunaherbco.com/herbal_roots.html
When my kids aren’t feeling well. I make them tea with raw honey. Usually chamomile or peppermint. No medication necessary!
We are huge elderberry fans (Sambucol) around here.
I personally like to use organic essential oils as an alternative medicine. There are many blends for many different types of illnesses. One of my favorites is the baby c-relief from Tip 2 Toe Essentials. It really works wonders for colds and flu in babies and small children. You can even use it as a prevention for RSV!…. and one more thing… the smell.. oh, it’s wonderful….
Oh, and here’s a link
http://www.tip2toeessentials.com/BABY-C-RELIEF-ESSENTIAL-OIL-BLEND-p/217.htm
First of all, I love your site, despite the fact that I am a stay at home dad and not a mom.
In response to your post, I would recommend passion flower and aloe vera to be included in every household’s “must have” plants. Aloe is so versatile. It can be used for scars, skin, sunburns, taken internally as a drink, and has an amazingly beautiful flower. Passion flower is great for tea and aids in making one sleepy at night. Sleepy Time tea does not seem to have enough passion flower to do the job for me.
Again, thank you so much for the time and effort you put into these posts. I look forward to more!
Hi, Is anyone familiar with Bach flower?
I use Bach Flower’s Rescue Remedy for tense moments. It is a type of homeopathic. Other commonly used homeopathic remedies are arnica and Hyland’s teething tablets. I love homeopathics! It’s an energetic imprint of a plant and the correct remedy is chosen by matching personalities. I used Antimonium tart. for my infant when he had a wet rattly cough. It is what midwives use for babies born in water who are slow to start. They are completely safe with no side effects. Finding the right remedy can be hit or miss though. I’ve used Phosphorus for anxiety, fear of thunderstorms, and fear of being alone.
Great post. I totally agree. Herbs should be treated as medicines and with caution. There are also some herbs that are toxic. If a person is using herbs a lot they need to seek advice from an ND and make sure their herbal remedies are from good sources.