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Getting to Know Herb
What Herbs Are Safe, What's Not?
By Angela Harris
Herbs can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions and can easily be found in various forms at your local pharmacy, herb shop or online. Below are some common childhood ailments and information on herbs that can help.
Common Cold:
Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea)
Synonyms: Purple Coneflower, Kansas Snakeroot
A member of the daisy family, Echinacea helps increase the body's resistance to viral infection. If taken properly at the onset of symptoms, Echinacea has been shown to reduce a cold's duration. Echinacea is usually administered in pill or tincture form.
Side effects: Individuals allergic to rag weed, marigolds, daisies and the like should avoid Echinacea.
Colic/anxiety:
German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Synonyms: Wild Chamomile
Chamomile is a safe, multitalented herb for children and parents alike. "Over 10 years ago a study on chamomile for colic was featured in the medical journal Pediatrics," Dr. Degnan says. "A chamomile mixture given to colicky infants was shown to safely provide significant relief of symptoms." Chamomile helps relieve gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, cramps and upset stomach in both children and adults. It also emits a pleasing aroma, making it an ideal additive for baths.
Side effects: Because Chamomile is in the same family as Echinacea, persons allergic to ragweed, daisies and the like should avoid.
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