How to Treat Common Child Ailments with Herbs

The trend for parents turning to herbal remedies for their children has been increasing recently. Herbs contain a mixture of active components and work to help maintain a healthy child. Boosting your child's immune system rather than just treating symptoms are what herbs do best. Also, parents look to herbal remedies as a safe and effective way to help their child.Herbs tend to work more gently in the body than over the counter drugs as well as reduce the possibilities of unwanted side effects. If your child is afflicted with a minor problem such as a scrape, earache, or a cold, herbs can be a great remedy. For serious conditions, you should consult a healthcare professional. However, for those minor and common aliments we have some safe and effective herbal remedies.

Herbal Remedies for Your Child's Colds and Flu
There have been several herbs that help your child fight off and minimize the common effects of respiratory ailments that are common in colds and flu. Many of these herbs are without the side effect of drowsiness. American ginseng and andrographis are two herbs that enhance a child's immune system and help to reduce the symptoms of a cold. Echinacea is also a classic herbal remedy for a child's cold symptoms.

Herbal Remedies for Your Child's Ear Infection
Many parents have found that the common use of antibiotics and pain relievers as a conventional treatment often can be ineffective. Infections can return due to a resistance to antibiotics. One herbal alternative is garlic, which has antimicrobial properties and should be applied topically as in an oil-based drop. Goldenseal is another herb that can be used for ear infections as well. St. John's wort is seen as both an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory herb that also helps to reduce pain.

Herbal Remedies for Your Child's Stomach Ache
There are several herbs that can be used as an alternative to over the counter drugs to help ease a child's stomach ache. Fennel has been shown to neutralize the excess acid in your child's stomach and it also works as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. To fight vomiting and nausea try the herb ginger and peppermint to help with digestive issues.

Herbal Remedies for Your Child's Teething
A parent who has a child that is teething needs to find a remedy that will promote calming as well as a pain reliever. Chamomile is a safe and gentle pain reliever for a child going through teething. Try using slippery elm and apply it directly to the child's sore gums to relieve the pain. Never give a child aspirin as it could lead to Reye's syndrome.