When your child is under the weather, a cup of tea might be just the ticket to relief. "Not only is it comforting, it can also help keep children hydrated and may break up mucus," says Hilary McClafferty, M.D., past chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Section on Integrative Medicine. It’s easy: Just steep a tea bag in a mug of hot water for ten minutes, doctor it up with some kid-friendly flavors, then sip away symptoms. Try these varieties:
What to Brew: Chamomile
How It Helps: Chamomile is naturally calming, so it can soothe a cranky, uncomfortable child to sleep.
Kid-Friendly Twist:
Add 1/8 teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoon honey (for kids older than 1)
1 teaspoon lemon juice.
What to Brew: Ginger
How It Helps: This root relieves nausea and calms upset tummies.
Kid-Friendly Twist:
Add 1 tablespoon honey (for kids older than 1)
1 teaspoon lemon juice.
What to Brew: Red Rooibos
How It Helps: Also known as red-bush tea, this variety is high in antioxidants and vitamin C, which boosts immunity.
Kid-Friendly Twist:
Add 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 tablespoon honey (for kids older than 1).
Our editors found this article on this site using Google and regenerated it for our readers.