When it comes to supporting our children’s mental health, safety is every parent’s top priority.
Natural herbs for anxiety in children can be a helpful part of managing stress and calming nerves, but it’s important to know which herbs are safe and which should be approached with caution.
What Are the Best Herbs to Safely Reduce Anxiety in Children?
Finding the right natural remedy can be a game-changer for your child’s well-being. Here are some herbs that are generally considered safe for children:
Chamomile: A Gentle Soother
Chamomile is one of the safest and most well-known herbs for children.
It’s been used for generations to promote relaxation and improve sleep.
This herb is gentle enough for children, making it a popular choice for soothing anxiety.
Whether in tea form or added to bathwater, chamomile can be a calming part of your child’s routine.
Lemon Balm: Mild and Effective
Lemon balm is another child-friendly herb that has a long history of use for reducing anxiety.
It has a mild, pleasant taste and can be taken as a tea, tincture, or even mixed into foods.
Its gentle nature makes it safe for most children, and it’s often recommended for easing nervousness and improving mood.
Passionflower: A Natural Relaxant
Passionflower is known for its ability to reduce anxiety without causing drowsiness.
It’s typically considered safe for older children but should be used with caution in very young kids.
Always start with a low dose and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s appropriate for your child’s specific needs.
Herbs to Use with Caution
While many herbs are safe, some should be used carefully or avoided altogether when it comes to children:
Valerian: Proceed with Caution
Valerian root is often used to promote sleep and calm anxiety, but it has a stronger sedative effect compared to other herbs.
While it may be beneficial for older children or teens, it’s not recommended for very young children due to its potent nature.
Always consult a healthcare provider before introducing valerian to your child’s routine.
St. John’s Wort: Monitor Closely
St. John’s wort is popular for its mood-boosting effects and is sometimes used for anxiety in older children and teens.
However, it can interact with many medications and isn’t recommended for children who are already on other treatments.
Close monitoring and professional guidance are essential if considering this herb for your child.
Herbs Not Recommended for Children
Some herbs are simply not safe for children due to their potency or potential side effects.
These include kava kava, which is linked to serious liver issues, and ashwagandha, which, while generally safe for adults, might be too strong for young children’s systems.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before considering these options.
How Can Parents Safely Introduce Calming Herbs into Their Child’s Routine?
Introducing herbs into your child’s routine doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should be done with care:
Start with Herbal Teas
Herbal teas are one of the safest and easiest ways to introduce calming herbs to children.
Chamomile or lemon balm tea before bed can help your child wind down and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
Just be sure to use teas specifically labeled for children to avoid any potentially harmful additives.
Use Tinctures with Care
Tinctures are concentrated herbal extracts that can be very effective, but they should be used carefully.
Always choose tinctures made specifically for children, and follow the recommended dosage closely.
Mixing tinctures into water or juice can make them more palatable for younger children.
Consider CBD Gummies
CBD gummies are a natural option that may help reduce anxiety.
While not an herb in the traditional sense, CBD is derived from hemp and interacts with the nervous system to promote relaxation and has been shown to reduce anxiety in adults.
CBD has not been largely tested on children, however, so this is something to talk to your doctor about to see if it’s wise in your case.
Can These Herbs Be Used with Other Anxiety Treatments?
Combining herbal remedies with other treatments can be part of a well-rounded approach to managing anxiety.
For instance, pairing herbs with natural supplements for the nervous system or the best supplements for anxiety, like magnesium or omega-3 fatty acids, may provide additional support.
However, always consult with a healthcare provider to avoid any potential interactions and to tailor the approach to your child’s unique needs.
In a Nutshell
When it comes to using natural herbs for anxiety in children, safety is key.
Chamomile, lemon balm, and passionflower are gentle options that may help calm anxiety, but some herbs like valerian and St. John’s wort require caution.
Always consult a healthcare provider before introducing new herbs into your child’s routine, especially if they’re already on other medications.
By choosing the right herbs and introducing them safely, you can support your child’s mental health naturally and effectively.
Thank you and live well.
