Alfalfa Herb for Babies with Allergies?
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Helen
Posted on: December 17, 2006



Please can you advise if it is safe for me to give my 7 month old baby alfalfa herb. He is allergic to eggs, nuts and dairy and we are having trouble getting him to take Neocate formula and he will not eat any solids.

Alfalfa is generally safe for any age, but since your baby is very sensitive, you will need to start slowly, with a small amount, and watch for reactions. The adult dose is 500 mg. three times daily, so a normal dose for a 7 month old would be about 30 mg. of alfalfa leaf powder, three times daily. Use only alfalfa leaves, not the seeds or sprouts, which may interfere with the metabolism.

Often a baby who is allergic to cow products can tolerate sheep or goats milk. Other generally safe foods for baby’s with allergies are apple juice, well cooked rice, and rice water, made by boiling rice in double the normal amount of water until the rice is mushy, then straining off the rice. Use only organic products with no additives.

To ensure that your baby is well nourished, I advise you to visit a well qualified natural practitioner, such as a medical or clinical herbalist or a naturopath for a complete assessment and to advise you on possible causes for your son’s difficulty with eating. And of course, continue regular visits with your doctor for a diagnosis of your son’s eating problem and to ensure that your son is gaining sufficient weight.



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