Natural Health for Children

According to a government report this week, more than 1 in 9 children and teens use natural remedies and other nontraditional options.

Given that children are generally pretty healthy, the finding that so many use alternative medicine is "pretty amazing," said one of the study's authors, Richard Nahin of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The sweeping study, done by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suggests about 2.8 million young people use supplements.

The researchers defined alternative medicine as: Acupuncture, homeopathy, chiropractic, yoga, Pilates, deep breathing, massage and even dieting were included.
Herbal remedies were the leading type of alternative therapy for both adults and those under 18. Among kids, such therapies were most often given for head or neck pain, colds and anxiety. Body aches and insomnia were other top reasons.

Fish oil for hyperactivity and echinacea for colds were the most popular supplements.

The associated press reports that some doctors are concerned that parents could be giving children alternative therapies in place of proven clinical treatments. I think the drug companies may be worried also. Imagine that, we really don't need all their prescriptions because there are less expensive and natural options.

I am glad to see that natural medicines are increasing in popularity. I'm actually surprised it isn't higher than 1 in 9. I'm more surprised that 8 in 9 are putting the traditional medicines in their children without first exploring natural options. My family has had a lot of success with echinacea and other homeophatic remedies.