The Grade School Years by Martha Schindler Connors with Larry Altshuler, M.D.
Kids in grade school have their own set of health issues. Their bodies are changing and their social lives and activities are changing, too. Many kids in this age group are getting more active in sports, which brings a whole new set of health concerns.
Locker Room Woes
Children who participate in sports or gym class can develop a few types of fungal (or tinea) infections, including tinea corporis (also known as jock itch) and tinea pedis (better known as athlete's foot). These two very uncomfortable infections are caused by mold-like fungi knows as dermatophytes. These fungi are spread by direct contact (touching a hard surface or an infected person) and thrive in warm, wet environments like swimming pools and locker rooms.
Tinea infections are treated with OTC topical antifungals like terbinafine (Lamisil), which can cause reactions in some individuals. Herbal remedies can be used in place of these medicines, and include:
• Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) |
Clove oil contains high levels of eugenol, a potent antifungal; it also has several antiseptic and anti-inflammatory constituents. Research shows that clove and other plant oils can stop the proliferation of dermatophytes. |
• Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) |
This North American perennial herb can help your child fight almost any infection, including tinea. Echinacea can be used both internally and externally. |
• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) |
A natural anesthetic and anti-inflammatory. It is also effective against many kinds of fungi. |
• Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) |
A traditional Aboriginal treatment for all types of skin inflammation and infections (including fungal), it can also speed healing of inflamed (or scratched-up) tissues. |
<B>Swimmer's Ear</B></h2>
<p>Kids who spend a lot of time in the pool can get a type of infection known as swimmer's ear, or <B>otitis externa</B>. Swimmer's ear is an infection of the outer ear canal. It strikes when a child gets contaminated water into her ear, most often from a pool with poorly maintained chlorine or pH levels, or a lake that has high levels of bacteria. It's treated with OTC pain relievers and prescription antibiotics (see above). To kill bacteria preemptively, many conventional practitioners recommend treating the ears with hydrogen peroxide after every swim. Hydrogen peroxide can damage skin tissues and isn't a particularly effective antiseptic.</p>
<p>If your child complains of sore ears after swimming, you can try to clear it up with herbs before heading to the doctor for antibiotics. If she does need the drugs, you can use these remedies in conjunction with them:</p>
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<td><p>• <B>Goldenseal</B> (<B>Hydrastis canadensis</B>)</p></td>
<td><p>Can be taken internally or applied externally to help clear up an ear infection. Its astringent and antiseptic properties are especially helpful for waterlogged ears.</p></td>
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<td><p>• <B>Saint John's wort</B> (<B>Hypericum perforatum</B>)</p></td>
<td><p>Research shows that ear drops containing Saint John's wort can relieve earache pain more quickly than pharmaceutical anesthetics.</p></td>
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<td><p>• <B>Witch hazel</B> (<B>Hamamelis virginiana</B>)</p></td>
<td><p>Witch hazel contains astringent, antiseptic, and antibacterial compounds, which makes it perfect for drying (and sanitizing) infected ears.</p></td>
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<li ><a href="http://www.netplaces.com/herbal-remedies-guide/caring-for-kids/childrens-skin-conditions.htm">Children's Skin Conditions</a></li>
<li ><a href="http://www.netplaces.com/herbal-remedies-guide/caring-for-kids/tips-for-toddlers.htm">Tips for Toddlers</a></li>
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<li ><a href="http://www.netplaces.com/herbal-remedies-guide/caring-for-kids/kids-colds-and-flu.htm">Kids, Colds, and Flu</a></li>
<li ><a href="http://www.netplaces.com/herbal-remedies-guide/caring-for-kids/other-childhood-infections.htm">Other Childhood Infections</a></li>
<li class="btO">The Grade School Years</li>
<li ><a href="http://www.netplaces.com/herbal-remedies-guide/caring-for-kids/teenagers.htm">Teenagers</a></li>
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