Herbal Remedies For Various Children’s Ills

If you have children, you know that despite your best efforts, they all get sick sometimes. It seems that they often get sick in the middle of the night.

In fact, when I worked in an emergency room, if we saw a young child coming in crying around one o’clock in the morning, we knew it was probably croup or an ear infection.

Herbs are valuable aids for children, especially when they need fast, safe help. Prompt use of herbal remedies may prevent the need to use conventional medications that contain potentially harmful side effects. Many herbs are available which relieve symptoms as well as pharmaceuticals, but via safer, gentler means. If you decide to use herbs to soothe children’s ills, there are several factors which are important to keep in mind.

Using Herbs for Children Safely

Consult with your child’s health care provider if you are considering using herbal remedies, if your child is very sick, or you have questions. Herbs are sometimes used in conjunction with mainstream therapies to enhance immune health and relieve symptoms. They are used on their own too.

Children’s bodies absorb and utilize herbs differently than adults. In general, children are more sensitive to remedies of any kind, including herbal remedies.

Always store all medications, including herbal remedies, out of the reach of children in child-proof containers.

Administration of Herbs to Children

All parents know that administering medications to children is frequently challenging. Fortunately, herbs can be administered in creative ways which your child may not resist.

Herbal Bath

The easiest way to administer herbs to children is by making them an herbal bath. Unlike adults, whose skin is less absorbent, the skin of a child absorbs the healing goodness of herbs readily. As an additional plus, the child gets the benefits of hydrotherapy. A tepid bath may cool a child with a fever or relieve itchiness. Humidity from a bath is excellent for relieving coughs and un-stuffing clogged noses. Sometimes, children are able to relax and sleep better after a nice warm bath.

To add herbs to a bath, simply tie a handful of herbs in a cloth and submerge the cloth in the tub. Alternatively, you may make a strong tea by covering the herbs with hot water and letting them steep for several minutes. Strain out the herbs and add the tea to the bath. Always add the tea prior to putting the child in the tub, to avoid burns. Use catnip to soothe fussy children and reduce fever. Peppermint is cooling and helps to relieve congestion. Lavender is very calming. Chamomile, chickweed, and calendula relieve itching.

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