When used as a complementary therapy to medical treatments, natural remedies can be safely used for treating the stomach flu in your toddler as long as you are attentive to the changing symptoms your child is experiencing. Consult with a licensed naturopathic doctor if you have any concerns about natural remedies for your toddler. Any decline in well-being should be reported to your child's pediatrician right away.
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathy has been practiced by homeopathic doctors and naturopathic physicians for hundreds of years. Specific remedies are used to match specific symptoms to encourage natural balance in the body. According to master homeopath and author Dana Ullman, homeopathic remedies can be safely and effectively used to treat stomach flu in toddlers. If a remedy does not improve your child's condition after three doses, try another remedy to find a better constitutional match. For consultation and appropriate homeopathic treatments, locate a licensed homeopath or naturopathic doctor who specializes in pediatrics. According to pediatrician Dr. William Sears, homeopathic remedies do not interfere with traditional medical treatments, but you should advise your doctor if you are using them to treat your child's illness.
Essential Oils
Some essential oils contain antimicrobial and anti-spasmodic elements that may reduce some of the uncomfortable symptoms in a toddler suffering from the stomach flu. Inhaled through the nose or absorbed in a calming bath through pores in the skin, essential oils such as thyme, eucalyptus and chamomile may offer relief from the spasms associated with vomiting and diarrhea. The American Holistic Medical Association insists that these powerful oils should always be diluted with a carrier oil and should not be ingested without the guidance of a certified aromatherapist or naturopathic physician, because they may be toxic in even small quantities. Keep all essential oils out of reach of small children and animals to prevent accidental poisoning.
Coconut Water
Coconut water contains vital electrolytes and an abundance of potassium to help rehydrate a toddler who has lost a lot of fluid from vomiting and diarrhea. According to "The Baby Book," the most dangerous aspect of the stomach flu for small children is the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Coconut water hydrates naturally and effectively without artificial sweeteners or colors. Give your toddler small sips of room temperature coconut water every 10 minutes to prevent dehydration and to help curb stomach spasms. If your toddler shows signs of dehydration, such as a sunken fontanelle, skin that doesn't fall back into place when gently pinched, a reduction in urine output or extreme weakness and delirium, contact your pediatrician immediately.
Warnings
Though natural remedies can be very effective when treating flu symptoms in toddlers, they should not be considered an exclusive way to deal with severe illness. The stomach flu can be life-threatening in toddlers and proper treatment should not be delayed. Natural remedies are intended to offer comfort and act as complementary therapy to regular medical treatments.
Do not give any natural flu remedy containing honey to a toddler under age 2. Honey contains spores that can cause botulism in this age group.
References
- "Homeopathic Medicine for Children and Infants"; Dana Ullman; 1992
- "The Baby Book"; William Sears, et al.; 2006
- "The Book of Herbal Wisdom: Using Plants as Medicine"; Matthew Wood; 1997
- "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health: Healing Therapies for Optimal Wellness"; Larry Trivieri Jr.; 2001
