“It’s Just Herbs” — Situations Where Giving Herbal Remedies to Children Is Dangerous
In many homes, especially across Nigeria, herbal remedies are seen as natural, trusted, and harmless. Grandparents recommend them, neighbors swear by them, and they’re often the first thing given when a child falls ill.
But here’s the medical truth:
Natural does NOT always mean safe — especially for children.
Children’s bodies process substances very differently from adults, and in some situations, giving herbs can be dangerous or even life‑threatening. Below are key situations when herbs should never be given to children without medical advice.
1. When the Child Is Under 5 Years Old
Children under 5 have:
- Immature liver and kidney function
- Lower body weight
- Higher sensitivity to toxins
Many herbs contain strong chemical compounds that a child’s body cannot safely handle. Even small amounts can cause poisoning, liver damage, or severe reactions.
2. During Fever, Convulsions, or Severe Illness
Giving herbs during:
- High fever
- Seizures or convulsions
- Severe weakness
- Difficulty breathing
can delay urgent medical care and worsen the child’s condition. Some herbs may also lower the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of repeated convulsions.
Fever with convulsions is a medical emergency, not a herbal problem.
3. When the Child Is Vomiting or Has Diarrhea
Herbs given during vomiting or diarrhea can:
- Worsen dehydration
- Irritate the stomach and intestines
- Interfere with oral rehydration solutions (ORS)
At this stage, the priority is fluids, electrolytes, and medical assessment—not herbs.
4. When the Exact Contents or Dosage Is Unknown
Many herbal mixtures:
- Do not list ingredients
- Have no measured dosage
- Vary in strength from batch to batch
Children can easily be overdosed, even when the caregiver believes the amount is “small.” There is no safe guesswork with children’s medication.
5. When the Child Is Taking Prescribed Medication
Herbs can:
- Reduce the effectiveness of prescribed drugs
- Increase side effects
- Cause dangerous drug–herb interactions
For example, some herbs affect liver enzymes, altering how medicines are broken down in a child’s body.
6. When the Child Has Jaundice or Yellow Eyes
This is especially important.
Herbs given to children with jaundice can cause:
- Acute liver failure
- Worsening bilirubin levels
- Permanent liver damage
Never give herbs to a child with yellow eyes or skin. Immediate medical evaluation is essential.
7. When the Herb Is Mixed With Alcohol or Other Substances
Some traditional preparations contain:
- Alcohol
- Fermented liquids
- Multiple combined herbs
Alcohol exposure in children can cause:
- Low blood sugar
- Breathing problems
- Brain injury
8. When the Child Is a Newborn or Infant
Newborns should never be given herbs, water, or mixtures. Their organs are extremely delicate, and even mild substances can be harmful.
Breast milk or properly prepared infant formula is all they need unless a doctor advises otherwise.
Warning Signs After Giving Herbs to a Child
Seek medical care immediately if a child develops:
- Persistent vomiting
- Extreme sleepiness or confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Abdominal pain
- Convulsions
Safer Alternatives for Parents
Instead of herbs:
- Use ORS for diarrhea
- Give paracetamol (in correct dose) for fever
- Seek early medical care
- Ask a healthcare professional before giving any remedy
Your Child’s Safety Comes First
At Mascot Healthcare Clinic, we provide:
- Child‑friendly outpatient care
- Safe treatment for fever, diarrhea, and infections
- Guidance on what is safe — and unsafe — for children
- Non‑judgmental care for families who have used herbs
Bring your child in early or speak to our healthcare team. We’re here to help you protect your child’s health with care you can trust.
Because when it comes to children, safety should always come before tradition.