There is currently a distinct alternative/allopathic divide in my household. The kids and I are battling the first big bad cold of the winter, and using very different forms of treatment. Some of it isn’t different. Everyone is wearing pajamas and has tea and juice, but the children are on a variety of gentle herbal and homeopathic preparations while mama just had her Candyman drop by with some pseudoephedrine from across the Portland-Vancouver border. Now my head isn’t just congestion-free, but alarmingly empty. I can’t remember what thought I just had or why I had it, but I know I’m pleased that nobody has been this sick since sometime last winter.
Last year, even before all the press on how unsafe many over-the-counter cold and flu medicines are for kids, Suzanne Rosenberg, a pharmacist at New Seasons Seven Corners, turned me on to elderberry syrup and Larix. Between those, and mega doses of vitamin C, we averaged just 1.5 colds per person for the entire winter, and only one case of flu. And this without mercury-laden flu shots.
Larix is a type of polysaccharide from the Western Larch tree. It’s best taken to boost immunity at the first sign of cold or flu symptoms, or if someone else in the family is sick. Eclectic Institute’s Larix is available through the New Season’s pharmacy and is about $18.00 for 6oz. Not cheap, but just a few dollars more than one Kaiser co-pay, and two canisters lasted us all winter. The Eclectic Institute is based out in Sandy, and grows many of their herbs organically on-site.
Elderberry extract has demonstrated effectiveness against cold and flu symptoms, and my kids happily slurp up the Honey Gardens formula. Like little Elvises (Elvi?) they love their meds, which is one reason why I’d rather they take the herbal and homeopathic route. Adults in our family take the less tasty Elderberry tincture. You can also try New Chapter Blockade Elderberry lozenges, recommended by Cari at People’s Food Co-op.
Last December, a study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine concluded that plain honey was as or more effective than OTC meds in treating children’s coughs. That’s right, plain honey. Rosenberg cautions against any honey-based remedies for children under age 1, and recommends waiting until age 2 for most herbs. Infant safe remedies are Hyland’s Homeopathic C-plus Cold Tablets and Thymactiv by NF Formulas for immune system enhancement. Remember that it’s always best to consult with a pharmacist or naturopath before giving your children any remedies.
In the wake of all the concerns around kids and cold medications, simple remedies like saline nose drops got lots of press. A really great way to prevent and relieve congestion is the Neti pot ($16.95 at New Seasons), recently thrust into the mainstream by being featured on Oprah. Using a Neti pot is extremely effective, but very humbling. There is no pretty way to irrigate your nose with salt water. It’s like brow plucking or bikini waxing; if you want to preserve any of your mystique, lock the door before you begin.
As I clench my jaw and twitch and try to remember how to spell “mystique,” my children are gently chuckling over some vintage Donald Duck in the next room. In my conversation with Suzanne Rosenberg, she remarked that natural remedies are so much more “calming” than mainstream over-the-counter medications. Why did I pursue this tweaky Sudafed energy instead of some subtler approach? Impatience, I suppose. Hypocrisy. In a few hours, after I come down, I’ll be back with the Neti pot.