immunity in winter

toddler health

 Toddler Health: Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Introduction

The health of young children is one of the biggest concerns of every parent. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the approach to treating children is gentle and holistic, focusing on restoring balance in the body through herbs, acupressure, diet and Qigong. These methods are adapted to the sensitivity and delicacy of the child's body, helping to support their health and well-being.


How can TCM help treat ailments in young children?

TCM treats children as people who are still in the development phase and at the same time require special care. Ailments such as stomach aches, sleep problems, colds or weakened immunity can be effectively alleviated using TCM methods. In this tradition, diet, acupressure and appropriate herbs also play a large role.

Herbs used in TCM for young children

  1. Dang Shen (Codonopsis pilosula) – This herb supports the digestive system and is used in cases of reduced appetite or digestive problems.

  2. Gan Cao (Licorice Root) – Licorice is a popular herb in TCM that has pain-relieving and respiratory-supporting properties, ideal for colds.

  3. Xia Ku Cao (Green Carriage) – Used for throat infections, viral diseases, coughs and other respiratory problems.

Herbs should be used in the form of infusions, in small doses, appropriate to the child's age. It is always worth consulting a specialist before introducing herbs to the child's diet.

Acupressure for toddlers

Acupressure is a safe method used in TCM that can be used to treat various ailments in children. It involves gently pressing on specific points on the body, which helps restore energy balance and improve well-being.

Acupressure – 3 points for various ailments in children:

  1. Point LI4 (Hegu) – pain, stress, cold:

    • The point is located on the palm of the hand, between the thumb and index finger.
    • Pressing this point can help with pain, fever, upper respiratory tract infections, and colds.
  2. Point ST36 (Zusanli) – digestive problems:

    • Located on the legs, approximately 3 cm below the patella, along the shin bone.
    • Applying acupressure to this point aids digestion, improves appetite and has an anti-diarrheal effect.
  3. Point PC6 (Neiguan) – sleep problems and nausea:

    • The point is located on the forearm, approximately 2-3 cm above the wrist, between two tendons.
    • Pressing this point has a calming effect, relieves nausea, and aids in sleep.

How to use acupressure on children?
Gently press on selected points for 1-2 minutes, using circular motions. You can do this several times a day, especially when your child is experiencing pain or discomfort. Remember to always adjust the pressure to your child's sensitivity.

Qigong for children

Qigong is an ancient Chinese technique that combines movement, breathing, and meditation that can be adapted to children. Regular Qigong practice can help improve energy balance, calm the nervous system, and improve immunity.

Simple Qigong exercise for toddlers:

  1. Exercise "Gentle Ball"
    • Stand straight with your knees slightly bent.
    • Imagine that you are holding a small, delicate ball in your hands.
    • Slowly move your hands outward as if you were expanding the ball, then bring them toward each other as if you were squeezing it.
    • Repeat for 2-3 minutes, breathing gently. This exercise will help relax your child and increase their energy.

Recipe for Chinese Immunity Tea for Children

Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon Dang Shen (Codonopsis pilosula)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Gan Cao (licorice root)
  • 1 piece of cinnamon bark

Preparation:

  1. Pour 300 ml of hot water into the container.
  2. Add herbs and cinnamon.
  3. Cover and steep for about 10 minutes.
  4. After brewing, strain the tea.
  5. Give your child 1-2 teaspoons of tea twice a day. You can add some honey to improve the taste, but remember that honey is not recommended for children under 1 year old.

Why does it work?
Dang Shen supports the immune and digestive systems, Gan Cao soothes irritations, and cinnamon has anti-inflammatory effects and improves circulation.


Summary

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers effective, natural treatments for young children that focus on balancing energy and supporting health in a gentle and safe way. Herbs, acupressure, Qigong, and a proper diet can support the health of little ones and help treat a wide range of ailments, from digestive problems to stress and insomnia. Always remember to consult with your pediatrician or TCM specialist before introducing new treatments to find the right and safe solutions for your child.

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