Recommendation*

Rationale

Notes

Chamomile
(Matricaria recutita)
capsule, tea, tincture

A soother, chamomile calms nerves and also relieves indigestion and colic.

Talk to your pediatrician before giving to infants for colic; use for short durations; allergic reactions are rare but possible.

Echinacea
(Echinacea purpurea, E. angustifolia)
capsule, tablet,
tea, tincture

Echinacea stimulates and supports the immune system and helps reduce the severity and length of an illness. Echinacea improves immune function so the body can battle viruses and other types of microbes.

Don't give this herb to children with allergies to daisy-family plants.

Garlic
(Allium sativum)
capsules, cloves, drops

Eating garlic boosts the immune system; helps reduce cholesterol levels; and is antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal. Garlic is useful for treating ear infections.

This herb can cause digestive upset; if kids don't like the taste of fresh garlic, use capsules.

Hops
(Humulus lupulus)
capsule, tea, tincture

Use hops to calm nerves and relieve restlessness, insomnia and colic, or to ease stomachaches caused by anxiety.

No known side effects.

*When giving herbs to kids, check with a health care practitioner for doses. Sources: PDR for Herbal Medicines (Medical Economics Co., 2000); Professional Guide to Conditions, Herbs, & Supplements (Integrative Medicine, 2000); Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child by Janet Zand, LAC, OMD (Avery Publishers, 1999).