Essential natural remedies for kids

As a parent, you want nothing more than for your child to be healthy, and for that, they need a strong immune system. The biological process involved in immune system development takes several years. It requires that children have contact with their environment and become infected with viruses, bacteria and various pathogens.

Even in utero, five months after conception, the fetus receives immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies through the placenta. IgG accounts for 75% of the antibodies secreted in blood serum. It neutralizes toxins and fights against viral, bacterial and fungal infections from the mother. At birth, the mother also transmits bacteria to the baby through the vaginal microbiota. These bacteria form the basis of the baby’s microbiota. The microbiota of newborns delivered by Cesarean section consist of the bacteria present on the mother’s skin and in the hospital environment. The child is protected by maternal antibodies until the age of approximately six months. To activate and develop their acquired immune system, newborns must come in contact with bacteria and viruses. Through this contact, their bodies produce a specific response to antigens, a substance recognized as foreign to the body (e.g., a virus). Their bodies remember this antigen to mount a more effective response during a future exposure. The child’s immune system reaches maturity between ages 5 and 7 years. That’s why children “catch everything.”

Breastfeeding is by far the best protection for a child’s digestive and respiratory system. The composition of breast milk changes in step with the child’s growth curves and age. This means that breast milk provides essential nutrients. At the beginning of a nursing session, breast milk has a higher water content to relieve thirst. Toward the end of a session, it has a higher fat content to alleviate hunger. It also plays a vital role in the growth of gut flora. Some of the bacteria present in breast milk, like bifidus, helps protect against infections, allergies and gastrointestinal upset. 

Breastfeeding has many benefits. Nevertheless, women who can’t or don’t breastfeed can still give their infants everything they need to be healthy. 

Infections become more common and frequent when children start daycare. At this stage of life, children come in constant contact with viruses and bacteria. Instinctively, children put objects in their mouths to develop their senses (touch, taste, texture). It also helps them develop antibodies and their immune system. According to a Finnish study, children are better off in daycares with grass. Evidence shows that children in contact with a lawn have more diversified microbiota than children with access to a yard covered in synthetic grass or concrete (1). 

Health, we must remember, is multifactorial. Nutrition is the foundation of child health and development. This aspect is often overlooked because of the parents’ hectic lifestyle. Convenience and speed are often overriding factors simply because we are too stretched for time! However, taking that time and reconsidering our priorities is vital. We need to return to fresh, whole and unprocessed foods. The daily food choices you offer your children are the best gift you can give them. Nutrition education starts at birth. 

Despite your best efforts, your children will get sick and take you along for the roller coaster ride, so it’s important to be prepared at all times. 

Here are the essentials to have on hand to soothe your children, big and small! 

Bronkotux syrup for children

Take as soon as the child’s symptoms appear. Effective against wet and dry coughs. Bronkotux relieves spasms due to cough and sore throat, and it helps loosen and expel mucus. 

Bronchiplex

A multi-purpose product for the whole family. Whether you have bronchitis, the flu, laryngitis or tonsillitis, this compound eases discomfort. It can be taken together with Bronkotux Syrup or any other product without harmful interactions. 

Sinustop

The effectiveness of sinus rinses is well known. Combine them with Sinustop to relieve all ENT problems. Sinustop loosens mucus, reduces nasal inflammation (rhinitis) and alleviates headaches caused by blocked sinuses. It offers general relief to ailing, tired children. 

Allergex

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to an allergen. Can be used as a preventive measure or to treat reactions. Relieves runny nose, reduces watery eyes and eye or throat irritation. 

Virazap Flu Buster

Easy to use and good for the whole family!

Take this homeopathic compound in the morning and evening for 2 days as soon as flu or cold symptoms appear. Simply let the granules melt under your tongue. Can also be taken as a preventive compound. 

Arnikaid

Arnikaid cream works wonders. When your child has an ear infection, apply the cream around their ears and on the lymph nodes of their neck.

Apply several times a day. Make this cream your best friend on your next family holiday, too. Use it to relieve the many little aches and pains of daily life, from mosquito bites to sunburns to bruises. 

References:

1. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.aba2578

2. Accueillir mon enfant naturellement, Céline Arsenault, Le Dauphin blanc, 2009