Some Herbs Aid Childhood Illness

NEW YORK--Scientists investigating the scientific evidence behind the effectiveness of certain herbs in lowering incidence and improving symptoms of various childhood illnesses have found a number of beneficial botanicals. In the review, published in the March issue of the Journal of Pediatrics (http://journals.elsevierhealth.com/), researchers from the University of Illinois, Chicago, found Andrographis paniculata, evening primrose oil (EPO), valerian root and ivy leaf to be most promising, while they considered other herbs to be unproven, calling the evidence on echinacea mixed.

Lead study author Gail Mahady, Ph.D., said the science behind Andrographis, a traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, indicates a significant effect on the common cold, flu and other infections. Likewise, she reported EPO, especially its essential fatty acid content, demonstrated benefit to childrens atopic eczema; valerian root improved sleep patterns in boys with learning deficits and hyperactivity; while ivy leaf extracts studied for use in upper respiratory problems have improved breathing difficulties in children with asthma of chronic bronchitis.

The review (146(3):311-17, 2005) further noted research behind echinacea use in children is scattered, with some evidence showing the herb can trigger allergic reactions in children who already have allergies. Similarly, the scientists cited a lack of evidence supporting the use of garlic to lower cholesterol in children, as well as the use of cranberry to improve urinary infections in children.