Kid's Corner

Calming Herbs for Kids -by Mitchell Coven, Clinical Herbalist

Safe and effective herbal supplements provide gentle healing support that our children sometimes need. Most children do not need the powerful effects of pharmaceuticals for day-to-day needs. Kids are especially over stimulated these days and need help unwinding or focusing. Historically, chamomile has been used, which is mildly calming to the nervous system. Much stronger herbs, even for kids, are needed for the stress, hyperactivity and pace kids are under. Valerian and Hops are stronger herbs to calm the nervous system. They help soothe the nervous system to help focus and calm during the day. At night, with a larger serving, they can help a child drift off to a deep sleep without a morning hangover. Lobelia helps to decrease adrenaline, which makes the mind overactive and the body tightly wound. The Jimbo's formula Kid's Mellow Plus combines all these herbs into a synergistic blend safe for kids over the age of one. These herbs are suitable for repeated servings. Simply adjust the amount to get the desired effect. Gentle herbal help may help a child avoid more toxic medications.

Generally, kids tolerate liquid herbal extracts better than pills, which can be mixed in juice or water. *

*The material in this article is not intended as medical advice. Its intent is solely informational and educational. Please consult a health professional should the need for one be indicated.

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