Determining Dosage- Children
Most herbs that are safe for adults can also be safely used for children, provided that their size and weight are taken into account, and the dosage is adjusted accordingly. Nutritional herbs can be consumed regularly while Medicinal herbs, which are used for specific purposes need more consideration. If a medicinal herb is required for one month by an adult, the duration for a child may be reduced to one half or one fourth.
Here are recommended herbal dosage suggestions for children, to help you determine appropriate amounts of herbs, teas, and tinctures for your children. It's important to note that these are general recommendations, and factors such as the quality of the herbs, the child's weight, and overall health should be considered when determining the right dosage of herbal tea or tincture for your child.
Giving children proper dosing is an essential part of using herbs safely. There are a couple rules that herbalists use. Those are mathematical equations based on the child’s age and weight.
The following charts can assist in deciding the correct dosage of herbal remedies for children. It's important to note that these are only general guidelines. The child's weight, health status, and the potency of the herbs must also be taken into account. Typically, an adult dose consists of 1 cup (8 oz.) The information provided below is based on these standard measurements.
A standard adult dose for tinctures is two droppers full (equivalent to 60 drops) per dose. The information provided below is based on these standard measurements.
Using alcohol tinctures with children under the age of two is not always advisable due to their developing liver. However, there are methods to reduce the alcohol content. One approach is to pour a small amount of boiling water over the dose, which can remove approximately 15% of the alcohol. Another method involves leaving the preparation overnight in the open air, which may remove around 30% of the alcohol. Alternatively, some opt for glycerin tinctures, which do not contain alcohol. You can employ any of these methods as needed. Additionally, you can mix the dose into water or juice and simmer it on the stove; after 15 minutes, about 60% of the alcohol will evaporate, and after 2.5 hours, approximately 95% will be gone.
In our shop we carry the Tiny and Tasty line of extract which are low alcohol formulations created with children in mind. To check out those products that are available you can click here.
My passion is to equip you with the tools you need to incorporate God-given safe and effective natural remedies for your family. My prayer is that this is a blessing for you today. God bless you and yours. - JeriAnne