My favorite herbal and wellness books for Parents: Natural Approaches to Children's Wellness
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In my last post I shared a few of my favorite beginner herbal books, I'm often asked about resources specifically focused on children's health.
As natural approaches to wellness become more common (again and yay), many parents are seeking reliable information about gentle, effective remedies for their little ones.
When I began implementing natural remedies in our home decades ago, we didn't have nearly as many resources as we do today. The aromatherapy book below was absolutely pivotal for supporting my children through common childhood illnesses. As time passed my library and knowledge grew. I believe building your own wellness library and natural medicine chest are important so that you are equipped and ready when you need to be. It's never too early or too late to start. Just take one step at a time.
Here are my recommendations for parents and caregivers looking to incorporate herbs into their children's wellness routine.
1. Aromatherapy for the Healthy Child by Valerie Ann Worwood
For parents interested in essential oils, this book is an absolute treasure trove. Worwood provides over 300 natural, non-toxic essential oil blends specifically formulated for children's needs. What I particularly appreciate about this resource is its careful attention to safety and proper dilution rates for different age groups. The book covers everything from common childhood ailments to emotional support, making it a comprehensive guide for aromatic care. As mentioned in the introduction, this book was my gateway into supporting my 5 oldest children naturally. After beginning to build my own God Reliant apothecary, by God’s grace and wisdom my children were able to completely stop using over the counter and prescriptions medications. My copy is now stained, tattered and torn as it has been faithfully used for almost 20 years.
2. Herbs for Children's Health (3rd Edition) by Rosemary Gladstar
This comprehensive guide is a must-have for any parent interested in natural healing. Rosemary's extensive knowledge and gentle approach make this book particularly valuable. What sets this edition apart is its detailed yet accessible information about herbs that are especially safe and effective for children. The book includes clear instructions for making kid-friendly preparations like glycerites (alcohol-free tinctures) and tasty herbal syrups that children actually enjoy taking.
3. Herbs for Children's Health: by Rosemary Gladstar
Don't let the size of this book fool you! Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Remedies for Children’s Health is a great little guide. It provides simple recipes for salves, syrups, teas, and more, along with clear dosage guidelines and detailed profiles of 24 medicinal herbs. With this resource, you’ll feel confident soothing your child’s flu with hibiscus tea or using nettles to ease hay fever.
4. Herbal Healing for Children by Demetria Clark
This parent's guide stands out for its practical, down-to-earth approach to using herbs for common childhood illnesses. Demetria Clark combines her experience as an herbalist and mother to provide reliable, tested remedies that really work. This guide contains herbal first-aid and an alphabetical listing of childhood illnesses along with their remedies.
The beauty of building a natural health library is that you can return to these trusted resources again and again as your children grow and your confidence in using herbs and natural remedies develops. Each time you reference these books, you'll likely discover new insights and remedies that match your family's current needs.
When working with children, always start gentle and slow. These books emphasize safe, mild herbs and appropriate dosing for different age groups. Keep in mind that children often respond very well to gentle remedies, and sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective.
Have you used any of these books in caring for your children? I'd love to hear about your experiences with natural remedies in your family! I am proud of you for making God-given wisdom for wellness a priority in your family! Blessings and wholeness to you and yours.
JeriAnne
Would you like to know about safe dosing of herbs for children? Check out this post.