Children are prone to falling ill every now and then especially after the first few months of their lives. When a child gets a bad cold or flu, the parent instinctively tries to get rid of the sickness by treating with either home, natural or herbal remedies instead of allopathic medicines or pharmaceutical alternatives.
A famous herbalist, Rosemary Gladstar emphasises that infants have delicate bodies which respond promptly to the healing qualities of herbs. Ailments like colic, cold, flu, teething etc in children can be totally cured by herbs, when they are “administered wisely” and the dosages should be adjusted according to the child’s weight.
Effective Herbal Remedies For Baby Cold
Herbal medicines are readily available but appear to be complex as there is lack of awareness. Even though these herbs have been proven to be safe, the parent should practice caution at all times by heeding the advice of the physician before using these herbal treatments. Some of the common herbs used to cure cold and flu in babies are Astragalus, Echinacea, Chamomiullein, Mullein, Ost licorice, Catnip.
Astragalus
This herb is effective in preventing cold in children less than a year old too .it is mixed with glycerine extract is appealing to children.Astrgalus root enhances immunity when added in grain dishes and soups.
Incase the child is suffering from fever then avoid giving this herb as it has a tendency to prolong the fever.However it is one of the safest form of alternate medicine for babies suffering from cold.
Echinacea
Herbalists have proclaimed Echinacea (Echinacea spp.)to be a “mother’s helper”. It is a herb that has the ability to enhance immunity in the young ones.
This herb can be modified in tincture form or can be mixed in tea for attaining positive results in keeping the illness at bay. It should ideally be given at the initial stage of cold or flu. .
Chamomile
(Matricaria recutita)flowers ,when crushed gives soothing tea that cures congestion and is known to be an all rounder for healing aliments in children. Colicky is also cured by a a few drops of tincture of this herb.
Mullein
Researchers in herbal therapies discovered Mullein flower (Verbascum spp.). It is crushed and the oil extracted from this flower is used to treat congestion and extereme cold, even earaches and ear infections caused by common cold or flus. It is highly beneficial in 95 per cent of the cases, especially in children, though, in cases that are chronic or in serious cases this herb is not viable.
Ost Licorice
(Glycyrrhiza glabra) is usually mixed with teas or syrups and given to children .It works wonders in case of dry cough, congestion due to bronchitis, and sore throat as well. It can be given to children as licorice sticks to chew.
Catnip
Nepeta cataria- is a soothing herbal relaxant that can calm disturbed nervous system of the children .when given at the beginning of cold. For children it not only eases colicky but also prevents cough and cold from setting in. It can be given to babies in the form of tincture.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
