How often does a game of tag end with a bloody knee? Or does a birthday party lead to an upset stomach? Children are prone to bumps, bruises and the like—as are adults. To help speed the healing process of light ailments, it is beneficial to keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home. Aileen Lim-Trotter, ND, a licensed naturopathic physician specializing in pediatrics and dermatology, and owner of Zen-Tai Wellness, recommends keeping these 10 natural products readily available.
Adhesive Bandages: These help heal cuts and scrapes properly and prevent infection, says Lim-Trotter. It is beneficial to stock various sizes, as well as a few “specialty” versions for fingers. Many children tend to get cuts on their little hands and these are designed to move and bend easily without falling off.
Gauze and cotton pads: These two soft and clean products are ideal for washing light wounds, as well as keeping areas sterile while applying ointment.
Distilled Witch Hazel: “This is great to use in a compress for minor cuts, burns, and sprains,” says Lim-Trotter. It also takes out some of the sting and itch caused by insect bites.
Chamomile tea bags: This natural herb is an excellent way to promote relaxation and a restful night if your little one is feeling anxious or upset.
Antibacterial ointment: Lim-Trottter recommends finding an ointment that contains natural tea tree and lavender essential oils, both of which have anti-bacterial and pro-healing properties. Because full strength essential oils need to be diluted before applying to the skin, it is best to find a salve or ointment that already contains these mixed in.
Peppermint tea bags: A natural supporter of digestion, “a warm cup of peppermint tea is a great way to help relieve your child’s upset tummy,” says Lim-Trotter.
Homeopathic Arnica cream: A wonder product for bruises, this natural herb helps to decrease pain associated from bumps and bruises, as well as speed up the healing process.
Thermometer: “It seems that children tend to get a fever in the middle of the night so make sure to prepare yourself for this by having a digital thermometer on hand,” says Lim-Trotter.
Elderberry syrup: A natural powerful antioxidant and an anti-viral, elderberry syrup helps to support the immune system at the onset of colds and flu’s. It is also aids in soothing sore throats.
Raw organic honey: “A tablespoon of honey slowly dissolved in the mouth is a wonderful way to help soothe sore throats and alleviate coughs,” says Lim-Trotter. Children also love the sweetness. Lim-Trotter notes: only children over the age of 1 year should consume honey.
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