IMPORTANT
Unless otherwise stated on the package, most supplements and herbal remedies aren’t suitable for children under 12.
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Nasal Discharge

What you need to know:

As long as serious underlying problems have been ruled out, it’s worth trying some of these natural remedies to reduce catarrh.

Acupuncture and Naturopathy are both helpful, but it’s also worth trying a qualified medical herbalist or an Aromatherapy massage.

Dietary changes are essential and usually involve removing all dairy products, but this should only be done under the professional guidance of a naturopath, state registered dietician or a credited nutritionist with a university degree. This will ensure that your child won’t develop nutritional deficiencies, particularly lack of calcium.

Allergies are also a common cause of catarrh, but equally common are the problems caused by central heating, air conditioning and hermetically sealed school, university and office buildings.

The humidity in many buildings can be lower than that in the Sahara Desert and dry air combined with ozone and carbon particulate pollution from computers, printers, fax machines etc. makes mucous membranes hyper-sensitive, irritated and inflamed. You can overcome this problem by using humidifiers and lots of green, leafy plants like ivies and spider plants. This is very important in children’s rooms as this is where they now spend so much of their time, surrounded by electronic equipment.

The most useful Herbs:

Several herbs can be particularly useful. To take as pills or in cooking, try:
For inhalations, try these essential oils: The same oils used in a fragrancer at night will improve the quality of sleep, and a compress of lavender oil and warm water over the nose will relieve congestion.

The most useful Supplements:

Other useful advice:

Natural therapies, which help, are Acupuncture, Aromatherapy and Naturopathy, which may include advice on dietary changes, especially a reduction in the consumption of dairy products - but never do this, particularly for a child, without expert advice. The naturopath will also teach breathing exercises as an aid to prevention.

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This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk).
The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.