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6 Ayurvedic herbs for a healthy childhood
30.05.2018Ayurveda has much to offer in the way of gentle and effective health care and disease prevention for children through diet and lifestyle, as well as the use of medicinal herbs and spices. Many herbs can strengthen the immune system and support the health of children of all ages in a safe and holistic manner. Nowadays, the treatment for common childhood ailments consists mainly of chemical drugs when there are natural alternatives available. Of course, there may be times when such drugs are necessary, but all too often they could be substituted by a safer and more natural approach with Ayurvedic treatment.
Physical development and the mental state during the childhood period of life play a major role in the foundation of the rest of a person’s life. Present-day disorders like hypertension, obesity and high cholesterol are mainly due to improper diet and lifestyle. “Nidaana Parivarjana” -avoidance or removal of cause- is the most efficient method of managing these disease conditions.
Because food is our first and foremost form of nutrition, it should be considered our primary medicine. In Ayurveda, many common fruits, vegetables, and culinary spices are used to help with a variety of childhood health complaints without the need for any other treatment. For instance, constipation in young children can be corrected by drinking a cup of warm milk before bedtime with one teaspoon of ghee added to it. Likewise, a good measure consists in including in the diet foods that have a natural laxative effect such as soaked raisins or dates, honey, bran, sesame seeds, mango, papaya, grapes, and fresh figs.
Herbs that promote good health:
- Turmeric: This spice has been used in Indian recipes for generations. When consumed in food, turmeric has several health benefits; it can treat allergies, infections, chest congestion, lung problems and diarrhea. Turmeric contains magnesium and potassium that facilitates proper hydration and balances bodily fluids. It also helps digestion and its antibacterial properties strengthen immunity system in children. Curcumin, which is present in turmeric is one of the most important ingredients in Proliva’s Activ Kids.
- Cumin: Cumin is one of the most common spices that are available in most places in the world. The health benefits of cumin for kids are that it aids in digestion, has anthelmintic properties, can treat insomnia, treats colic, can help in fighting the common cold and provide relief from respiratory diseases, can treat anemia, strengthen the immune system and can help in balancing electrolytes in the body.
- Brahmi: This is a fast growing; low maintenance, a powerful herb that is filled with memory boosting and stress-busting capabilities. Studies have shown that the active components in Brahmi have very positive effects in maintaining brain health. It boosts mental power, improves concentration and sharpens focus. Brahmi decreases levels of cortisol and is believed to elevate mood. It also possesses antioxidant properties and encourages liver function. Proliva’s Activ Kids contains Brahmi.
- Pepper: Black pepper is rich in minerals and calcium and offers plenty of health benefits for children. It has the potential to cure pain and diseases in children because of anti-inflammatory properties. It contains high levels of antioxidants known as phenols, which promotes cell health. Black pepper is also a common ingredient in remedies for flu and the common cold and helps decongest the chest. It promotes good digestive health.
- Ashwagandha: This herb, also known as the Indian ginseng, promotes concentration and cognitive abilities in children. It is usually given to children to improve muscle tone and aid in growth. The herb improves the learning process and also has the potential to treat ADHD; a use that is actively being researched. Proliva’s Activ Kids features Ashwagandha as one of the key ingredients.
- Cardamom: Cardamom is rich in various vitamins and micronutrients. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine as a remedy for gastrointestinal disorders and promotes digestive health among children. It also possesses anti-microbial properties; it inhibits the growth and spread of diseases that sometimes cause stomach upsets. It also boosts metabolism, detoxes the body and improves blood circulation. Mix it into a glass of milk and give it to your child in the morning.
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