Learn about Ayurveda, an ancient system of healing that originated in India more than 5000 years ago. Hailed for its holistic approach to people’s well-being, Ayurveda can be applied to babies without exception. This practice still holds us in choosing which herb is good or bad for an infant. Central to Ayurvedic baby health is the balance of the three doshas: Vata (wind), Pitta (bile), and Kapha (phlegm). Babies are usually believed to represent the Kapha dosha, which is essential in their growth and formation of the fluids. The herbs such as Ashwagandha and Shatavari help in balancing hormones, but one has to be very selective because not all herbs are good or safe for babies.
For instance, Guggul or Brahmi, which are fairly potent, can be reduced with a low dosage as they may destabilize the body containing the infant. Though most of them may or may not work according to modern science, when it comes to Ayurveda’s principles that relate to infancy, as a parent or a caregiver, it is good to know about these principles. Getting it right refers to involving an Ayurvedic doctor who will guide one in selecting the right herbs which do not disturb the doshas in the body of a baby. In addition, adopting specific Ayurvedic remedies that suit to the child’s physical and emotional conditions can help to enhance the overall health status of your child considerably.
Safe Herbs for babies
- Ashwagandha (Without Somnifera) : This Adaptable herb is often recommended for its ability to promote overall health and well-being. For babies, Ashwagandha can be beneficial in enhancing immunity and providing proper growth. It’s usually given in very small amounts, mixed with milk or ghee, but should be introduced gradually under the guidance of a qualified ayurvedic practitioner.
- Bhrami (Bacopa Monnieri): Bhrami is a well-known herb for enhancing cognitive function and memory. For babies, its typically used in oil form, massaged into scalp to promote brain development and calm the nervous system. Bhrami Oil massage can be soothing ritual for babies, helping them to sleep better and develop a healthy brain.
- Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula): Known as a mild laxative, Haritaki is used in small doses to aid digestion and relieve constipation in babies. It also helps in detoxifying the body and improving appetite. However, it’s important to administer Haritaki in a very diluted form and under professional supervision.
- Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus): Shatavari is a rejuvenating herb that supports overall growth and development. It’s especially beneficial for strengthening the immune system and promoting healthy digestion. Shatavari powder, when mixed with milk, can be given to babies in minimal amounts, but again, professional guidance is essential.
- Amla (Indian Vegetable): Amla is a rich source of vitamin C and is known for its immune boosting properties. It is not safe for babies when given in concentrated form, such as amla juice, which can be added to the baby’s diet to support overall health and vitality. It also helps improve digestion and prevent stomach related problems.
- Neem (Azadirachta Indica): Neem is well known for its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is unsafe for babies when used outdoors. However, Neem oil can be added to bath water or used on the skin combination to treat acne, pimples, or other skin condition.
Herbs to Avoid for babies
While many herbs can be useful, many ayurvedic herbs can harmful and is not recommended for babies due to potency or possibility of having side effects.
- Turmeric (Curcuma Longa): Celebrated for its anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties, Turmeric can be too harsh for babies in its raw form. Turmeric can cause indigestion and diarrhea in babies. It is best to avoid giving turmeric to infants below one year of age, and even then, only to be provided in diluted solution.
- Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra): Licorice is commonly used in ayurvedic medicine for respiratory and digestive issues. However, it can cause serious side effects in babies, including high blood pressure and electrolyte imbalance. It’s best to avoid giving licorice to babies altogether.
- Guggulu (Commiphora Mukul): Guggulu is a resin known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Guggulu is old way of ayurveda to deal with problems like arthritis and cholesterol problems. Guggulu can upset the digestive system, and is generally not recommended for young children or babies.
- Ginger (Zingiber Officinale): While Ginger is an excellent remedy for digestive problems in adults, it can be too strong babies. The immense warming properties can interfere with babies’ digestion system which is tender and delicate. If necessary, only extremely diluted ginger tea should be provided and should be done under with caution and proper guidance.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi is revered in ayurveda for its ability to boost immune system and combat infections. Notwithstanding is not advisable for babies as it can interfere with tender correspondence of their development phase. Tulsi is recommended to be avoided until babies reach a certain age.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is known for its soothing and healing properties. It is not suitable for babies when ingested. Aloe vera can cause cramps, diarrhea, and severe indigestion. It is best to avoid using aloe vera internally for babies and limit its external use only in diluted forms.
Precautions
It is important to take precautions while considering ayurvedic herbs for babies to ensure safety and well-being.
- Always consult a Qualified practitioner before introducing an herb to your baby’s diet or routine. A practitioner would provide with personalized advice according to health and state of being of the baby.
- Ensure that the herbs you use are of high quality organic and free from contaminants. Poor quality herbs consist of insidious additives or pesticides that might hurt your baby.
- Avoid self-medication. Ayurvedic herbs are cogent and self-administration can be hazardous towards a baby’s tender body. Always seek professional advice before taking any particular step.
Conclusion
The basic principles of Ayurveda, its experience and various herbs and remedies suggested for babies can be helpful if the way they implemented is proper. Nonetheless, not all of these ayurvedic herbs are safe for infants and thus required special discretion. Make sure to seek a professional ayurvedic physician to help you use herbs in your baby’s care and begin by using small amounts of the herbs and look for any reactiveness. In this way, you can safely incorporate the wisdom of ayurveda into your baby’s well-being, thus ensuring that the little one grows up healthy and strong.
