Herbal Remedies for Kids – Are They Safe?

Should You Give Herbal Remedies to Your Kids?

Herbal remedies are great – they’re natural, and we avoid taking drugs (some of which have nasty side effects). And of course, they’re much more green and eco friendly than modern medication.

While I’m the first to admit that not all of them work, personally I’ll always try a herbal or natural remedy first. Then if it really doesn’t work, I’ll look at medicines.

That’s fine for us adults.

But what about giving herbal remedies to kids?

Are Herbal Remedies Safe For Kids?

Many parents are uncertain and concerned about the safety of herbal remedies for kids. These are the most common concerns:

1. Children’s bodies are smaller than ours, so how do you know the right dosage?
2. Many doctors and pediatricians discourage the use of herbs for children (I don’t know why).
3. And aren’t there all kinds of horror stories about kids having bad reactions to herbs?

Well, to answer the main question – are herbs safe for kids? The short answer is yes.

The longer answer is that yes, herbal remedies in general are safe for children (particularly remedies and blends sold specifically for kids), but it depends on the herb and the problem the child is having.

So, first, here’s a great tip for you, and then I’ve got a list of 4 herbs which are considered safe and effective for children.

Herbal Remedy Tip: When in Doubt, Give Less.   If you buy a herbal remedy or blend specifically for children, then you can rely on the dosage specified on the packet.

If you’re making your own or only know the adult dose, give the smallest possible dose. Adjust the dosage to fit your child’s weight – here’s how:

• The adult dose is usually for a 150-pound adult (68 kg)
• So a 25 pound (11kg) child would receive 1/6th the dose.

If you aren’t sure, err on the side of less.

(Continued below)

4 Herbal Remedies That ARE Safe For Kids

These are herbs that are generally considered safe for children, as well as quite effective.

1. Chamomile

Peter Rabbit’s mother was right – chamomile tea does help calm the nerves. As long as your child does not have a ragweed allergy (the chamomile flower is related to ragweed),
this soothing tea can be taken at regular strength by young children.

You can also brew up some chamomile tea and mix small amounts of it in the child’s regular drinks during the day to help calm nerves and anxiety. Many children enjoy chamomile sweetened with a little pure honey.

2. Mint

Peppermint and spearmint are safe herbs that can help soothe digestion . In addition, peppermint and spearmint taste good, so you can use them to help flavor other  teas that may not taste quite as nice to your child.

Again, pure honey makes a good sweetener if required.

3. Lemon Balm

This lemony herb makes a delicious beverage, hot or iced. It is quite safe, and also quite effective – it’s antiviral and helps soothe and calm. It promotes sleep as well.

This is a herb that can be brewed into a “lemon-balm-ade” and drunk through the day, or it can be brewed hot and enjoyed with honey.

4. Fennel

This time-honored remedy for colic in babies is considered a safe herb for children. Brewed into a tea, fennel seeds help digestion and soothe the stomach.

It has been shown in studies to be as effective as commercial over-the-counter gas relief drops. It tastes a little like licorice and makes a pleasant tea.

Summary

The more you can do to make sure your kids or grandchildren have safe, natural food, drinks and remedies, the better it is for them, you – and the planet.

Give the lowest dosage (generally, about 1/6 of the adult dose).  Chamomile, mint, lemon balm and fennel are all safe for children.

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Do you give remedies to your kids or grandchildren? Let me know in the comments below.

Warm regards,

P.S.  Don’t forget to download “Live Well, Live Green” for FREE here!

Related:

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• Home remedies for acid reflux