By Dr. Kathleen Regan, ND
Going back to school can be a stressful time for kids. Sometimes kids are open about expressing their worries and sometimes their anxieties come out in physical ways like itchy skin, tummy aches, headaches, bad dreams and restlessness. Calming herbs can go a long way to alleviate anxieties. Tea is a great way to provide this ‘herbal chill’. Your little tea enthusiast can drink it hot or for those kids not so fond of tea – it can be added to juice or smoothies. This herbal recipe can be compounded on special request at Innate Wellness or by your local naturopath/herbalist.
Ingredients
1 Part Chamomile
1 Part Catnip
1 Part Lemon Balm
Chamomile is a family favorite. It is a mild sedative which helps with restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia. This herb is also a wonderful digestive aid and is perfect in circumstances where stress affects digestion.
Catnip is a traditional sedative which promotes sleep. As an added bonus, catnip is cooling in nature and can help if your child is ‘hot and bothered’ or if she is running a fever.
Lemon Balm adds a fresh taste to this tea. It is a helpful remedy for colic or any digestive issues. It also helps to relieve anxiety and depression without causing fatigue.
Instructions
- Add 1 tbsp of loose herb per mug of hot water or 3 tbsp per pot
- Steep tea for 10 minutes
- Serve with 1 tsp of raw honey for sweetness or store overnight in fridge and add 1/2 cup to morning smoothie or juice.
- Children can take up to 2 cups per day. Morning tea should be at ½ cup to prevent daytime sleepiness. Evening tea can be up to 1.5 cups.
