Herbal Remedies For Kids?
Herbal remedies are growing in popularity. While these products may be harmless for adults, they could be very dangerous for children. Health Contributor Dr. Emily Senay reports for The Early Show.
While herbal remedies have been around for years, there is simply no data on the safety and efficacy in children and no reliable information about dosage.
Many of these products are safe but a few can potentially be dangerous.
Willow bark: This aspirin derivative could cause Reye syndrome, a life-threatening illness, when given to a child suffering from a virus.
Golden seal: Reputed to fight infection, golden seal has been associated with jaundice in infants.
Ephedra: Touted as an asthma treatment and used in some diet product, ephedra has strong effects on the cardiovascular system and can cause heart attacks and strokes.
Chapparel: This anti-depressant and anti-cancer treatment when used long term can suppress the immune system and cause problems.
Popular remedies like echinacea and St. John's wort shouldn't be given to a child about to have surgery as it has been known to interfere with anesthesia.
The following questions parents should ask before they treat their children with herbs:
Questions to Consider
- What is the proper diagnosis?
- Does the herb have side effects?
- Is the child taking other medication?
- What is the proper dosage?
- How long should the child be treated?
Many people take for granted the safety of the drugs and foods they buy. But, unlike other drugs, herbal remedies aren't reviewed by any government agency for quality dosage safety or efficacy.
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