Help for a Child with Allergies, Irritbility and Anxiety
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Kristie
Posted on: August 09, 2004

I have a son that is 6 years old and weighs 50 pounds. He takes prescription medicines for allergies (Singulair and Zyrtec). I recently ordered a calm child remedy for his anxiety and irritability before starting 1st grade. It contains chamomile (80 mg), gotu kola (36 mg). Also, a 748 mg proprietary blend of zizyphus seed, magnesium taurinate, hawthorn berry, catnip leaf, lemon balm, long pepper fruit, licorice root, chamomile flower, amla fruit, calcium citrate, anise seed, clove fruit, and cinnamon bark. Is it safe to take these together? And what is your opinion about taking GABA, glutamine, passion flower, taurine, and spirulina along with the other herbs and meds?

It is important that you find the root cause of your child’s problem. The prescription drugs and the allergies may be factors. You would likely have better long term results with your child’s anxiety and irritability by working on your child’s allergies with a qualified natural practitioner, such as a medical or clinical herbalist or a naturopath. Dietary changes and herbs, recommended after a complete assessment, do make a dramatic difference in allergies, and can result in a reduction and eventual elimination of his prescription drugs. Though this natural treatment may require 2 to 3 months, the cure is usually permanent because it is working with the root cause of the problem rather than just covering up symptoms.

I use a limited number of herbs with children. Children react quickly to herbs compared to adults. I suggest that you start with one simple herb that is widely used and known to be effective for children, and note its effects. Chamomile is a good calming herb for anxiety and irritability – unless your child is allergic to ragweed. In this case, try lemon balm or catnip. A tea can be made by steeping 1 teaspoon of the dried herb in 1 cup of boiling water in a covered ceramic pot or mug for 15 minutes. Give your child one half cup in the morning and again an hour before bedtime, sweetened with honey if necessary.

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