In the last article, we explored complementary and alternative medicine botanicals, their specific uses for children, and how they can be given. However, complementary alternative medicines are certainly not a small matter, so we thought we’d delve deeper into the benefits and risks of botanicals, ensuring that you have all the facts before investing in them for your child.

We know that botanicals can be a fantastic natural aid for children, and can provide them with many benefits. That being said, it’s always good to evaluate the safety of botanicals for children, so you can make the right decision for your little one and their individual health.

But before evaluating the risks, let’s talk about the benefits!

What are the benefits of my child using botanicals?

Ginger has been found to benefit children undergoing emetogenic cancer chemotherapy treatments.

Botanicals such as glycyrrhiza A (from licorice roots) have been developed to reduce the risk of cariogenic bacteria. It has been shown to be effective at reducing this in children with a high risk of dental caries.

Botanicals such as Ginkgolide B complex have been known to be useful as a prophylaxis for migraine symptoms in children.

So, now that we’ve looked at the benefits, let’s examine the risks:

What are the potential risks of my child using botanicals?

Botanicals and herbs haven’t been subjected to as many trials as traditional medicines, so although they are generally considered to be safe, many parents will understandably question this. In the past, people who went to buy botanicals had these doubts somewhat vindicated, since studies have shown that the information on the label isn’t always consistent with the content itself.

Aside from this, there are other potential risks:

Botanicals are often self-prescribed, so they are sometimes taken without a proper understanding of their toxicity or potential adverse effects.

Herbals have the potential to negatively interact with traditional pharmaceuticals.

The use of botanicals has been associated with asthma, poor control of symptoms, increased risk of hospitalisation, and more frequent doctor visits.

Botanicals like lobelia, tree tea oil and penny-royal have been thought of as potentially toxic.

It’s recommended that any child who is due to have surgery should discontinue taking echinacea 2 weeks in advance.

It’s particularly important to assess how botanicals will affect children with health conditions such as cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, etc. If in doubt, consult your doctor.

Laxatives such as senna and aloe have the potential to cause electrolyte imbalances and dehydration.

Some children can develop allergic reactions to herbs such as echinacea and chamomile.

To finish, we thought we would outline some final points to consider when looking at contemporary and integrative medicine for your child.

What should I consider when thinking about complementary and integrative medicine use for my child?

Here are some points to think about:

Ask about the practitioner's experience in delivering care to children.

Ask about their education, licence, and training.

Ask about their experience in coordinating care with conventional health care providers.

What are botanicals, and are they healthy for my child? (Part 2)

In this two-part article, Unii looks at whether botanicals will suit your child.