It Takes a Host

Viruses and bacteria live everywhere, especially during the cold and flu season. The microbes that cause colds and flu can exist in an airborne state. These same viruses and bacteria can also inhabit faucet handles, drinking fountains and school desks. In other words, our children are exposed every day to infectious agents. If the child's natural immune system is in its most effective state, the germs will be less able to colonize and infect them.

Preventive health care goals, then, include strengthening the child's own immune system to prevent illness through a healthy diet low in sugary foods, strong sleep patterns and attentive care with natural medicines.

First Defense is a Purple Flower

Often, the first medicinal herb parents learn to turn to for immune support is Echinacea root. Botanically known as Echinacea purpurea, this beautiful purple coneflower contains chemical constituents that studies show stimulates the immune system's response to viral and bacterial invaders. Echinacea can be used preventively to safely curb minor illnesses, but there's a trick: you must use Echinacea frequently in the first few days of a minor illness, and for several days afterwards. Using herbs is not like using prescription medications; once a day just isn't enough. Because most children's herbs contain water soluble constituents, your child will need to intake her herbal medicines once every 3-4 hours to maintain constant blood levels of the healing agents.

Don't think that Echinacea is the only herb available for supporting children's immune systems — far from it! One of the dozens of other immune system activating herbs safe for children's use is Astragalus. Other effective antiviral herbs for kids include Hyssop, Lemon Balm, Lemon Thyme, Lemongrass, Ginger root; Echinacea and Oregon Grape Root, Willow bark, Garlic or Mullein.