Chamomile is a plant known since ancient times for its calming and sedative qualities. The ability that chamomile has to relax and induce sleep is mainly due to its antispasmodic properties ; that is, it induces muscle relaxation.
Furthermore, chamomile-based herbal teas help eliminate intestinal gas and promote digestion . For all these reasons, chamomile in newborns and children is used both to promote relaxation and, consequently, nocturnal sleep, and to calm small pains, especially at the gastrointestinal level. Finally, chamomile has a mild anti-inflammatory effect.
The use of chamomile in newborns and children
Chamomile in infants and children is used both orally and as an ingredient in the preparation of hygiene and child care products.
From what age can chamomile be used in newborns? The products based on chamomile to be used topically, ie detergents, oils and soothing creams, can be used from birth, as well as compresses with the infusion to alleviate conjunctivitis disorders.
Even chamomile-based teas are often administered from the first week of life; we remind, however, that all national and international guidelines on child nutrition advise exclusive breastfeeding up to six months of age, which means that up to six months, ideally, the baby should only be given only breast milk; so, in theory, no herbal teas .
Chamomile among the 10 herbs for sleep
How to prepare chamomile for babies and children
There are different types of chamomile on the market:
- Loose chamomile flowers . They can be bought in herbal medicine and are used to prepare decoctions or infusions . In the first case put the flowers in cold water and boil for at least twenty minutes; the correct ratio between water and chamomile is 50 grams of dried chamomile flowers in half a liter of water. The decoction can be drunk (in this case it must be filtered) or used to prepare packs. To make a chamomile infusion, pour boiling water over the chamomile flowers and leave to infuse for a couple of minutes before filtering. The quantity per cup is a tablespoon of fresh chamomile flowers or a teaspoon, if the heads are dried. Chamomile flowers can also be grown in the garden or on the balcony of the house. They are often found in the fields, but it is not recommended to collect them unless you are sure that herbicides have not been used.
- Chamomile sachets . Alternatively, you can use the chamomile sachets that you normally buy at the supermarket.
- Soluble chamomile . There are several soluble products based on chamomile, specially designed for early childhood. However, soluble chamomile often contains sweeteners and therefore it is not advisable to offer it in a bottle, perhaps in the evening, when the baby is already in the cradle. The use of sugary drinks favors the onset of dental caries ; it is therefore preferable to use pure chamomile, which does not contain other ingredients, therefore the bulk or in sachets, not to be sweetened.
There is also a homeopathic product based on chamomile, which can also be used in children. To find out if this remedy is indicated for your child, ask the pediatrician.