If you are concerned about your child's lack of appetite, you might find that certain herbs correct the problem. However, not all appetite stimulant herbs are suitable for children. Consult with your child's pediatrician and administer herbs with care because they can trigger side-effects and interact with other herbs, supplements or medications. Also, small children need less food than adults. The website Family Education recommends servings for children should be one-quarter to one-third the size of an adult portion.
Lemon Balm
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the herb lemon balm has been used since the Middle Ages to improve appetite, along with a host of other uses. The herb, which flowers a light yellow bloom, is native to Europe. It is available as a dried leaf and can be purchased in bulk. It is sold as tea, in capsules, extracts, tinctures and oil. Most herbal recommended doses are calculated for a 150-pound adult. However, a child's dose should be one-third of the adult recommendation, notes UMMC. According to the website, lemon balm is generally regarded as safe. However, pregnant and breast-feeding women should not take lemon balm.
Dandelion Root
UMMC lists dandelion roots' uses as not only appetite enhancement, but also liver detoxification and digestion. Dandelions grow in Europe, Asia and North America. As well as the root, the flower and leaves are also used as herbal remedies, however the latter do not improve the appetite. To stimulate your child's desire for food, administer fresh or dried dandelion root. UMMC notes this can also help to ease constipation, flatulence and an upset stomach. Dandelion roots are available as tinctures, extracts, teas, tablets and capsules. Again, the appropriate pediatric dose is one-third of the recommended adult dose.
Yarrow
According to UMMC, yarrow is popular in European folk medicine. It is purported to increase saliva and stomach acid, which improves digestion. UMMC lists appetite enhancement as one of its other many benefits. It's available as a dried or fresh herb, in capsules or tablets and in tinctures and liquid extracts. Avoid administering yarrow if your child has allergies to chrysanthemums, daisies or ragweed. UMMC warns that no studies have been conducted on the use of yarrow in children. As always, consult with your child's pediatrician before administering this herb.
Panax and Siberian Ginseng
Panax ginseng -- not to be confused with American or Siberian ginseng -- is known to be an appetite stimulant, however it is also likely unsafe in infants and children. The website Medline Plus reports that panax ginseng has proven to be fatal when administered to babies, and until more is known about the herb, it is imprudent to give the herb to even older children. UMMC also cautions against the pediatric use of Siberian ginseng, another known appetite stimulant.
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