Chinese Medicinal herbs and acupuncture are an effective, drug-free modality with a high success rate in treating everyday childhood conditions. The digestive system of kids is immature and not fully developed and the maintainance of a healthy digestive system is paramount in treating all childhood disorders.
Acupuncture and children
Children respond very well to acupuncture and it is a good alternative to medications. Acute conditions like coughs and colds can usually be resolved in 1-2 treatments, whilst chronic conditions like asthma may require on-going treatment for a few months. Chinese medicine can also be used effectively used as a support for immunization.
SHONISHIN - treatment without needles
Shonishin is a Japanese technique that uses small metal tools, instead of needles to stimulate meridians, giving results just as powerful as acupuncture, without needle penetration. It is ideal for babies and kids under the age of 7 years. It involves tapping, scraping, pushing and brushing along the meridians on the arms, legs, abdomen and back to stimulate the flow of Qi and to release blockages.To watch a short demonstration of the Shonishin technique, click here.
If there is sufficient interest, an information and demonstration session can be held at the Walpole Day Care Centre. Mothers can come with their children and participate in a demonstration of the power of Shonishin. Call 9840 1155 to register your interest.
Herbal formulas for children
Made totally from time proven combinations of herbs, soluble formulas for most childhood conditions are available. These can be easily dissolved in warm water, drinks or cereals and are pleasant to taste, ensuring compliance. They can be purchased and kept on hand so that they may be used immediately, before an illness sets in and becomes worse. When colds, flus and coughs are treated with herbal medicine, the need for antibiotics is avoided as they are resolved before the condition becomes serious.
Special pediatric formulas from the Cathay Herbal range are also available for common conditions like fever, coughs, flu/colds, asthma, bed-wetting, teething, hyperactivity, digestive problems and skin conditions.They are sweetened with a natural herb - stevia and have a pleasant taste and are easy to take. Similar formulas are also available from the Sunherbal Red Peony range.
Some commonly treated conditions are:
Colic, diarrhea, constipation, feeding problems, skin rashes, teething, skin problems - prickly heat, nappy rash, eczema, the common cold, fever, ear and throat infections, asthma, cold sores, bed-wetting, lack of appetite, coughs, influenza, allergies, measles, chicken pox, thrush, allergies, conjunctivitis ....... to name but a few.
If you are unsure of whether or not to use Chinese medicine for your child, do not hesitate to call Rosemarie to discuss the condition and the appropriate use of herbal remedies.
Further reading for the interested............................................................................................
If you are interested in reading more about how Chinese Medicine is used to treat childhood conditions, the book "Keeping your child healthy with Chinese Medicine" is available for loan from the Walpole Library. It is a Parent's guide to the care & prevention of common childhood diseases using acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. Should you like to own a copy yourself, here is where you can buy it.
