Boosting Immunity in Young Children: Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions

Infant constitution conditioning!

Hello Dr.
Lin: I have two children at home (a boy and a girl, twins, aged 1 year and 4 months; the boy weighs 12 kg and the girl weighs 11.4 kg) who frequently get sick with colds.
In recent months, they have often been ill, experiencing gastroenteritis, throat inflammation, enterovirus infections, and respiratory issues with phlegm, requiring hospitalization for 4 to 5 days almost every month! Currently, both children have recovered, and I would like to take this opportunity to boost their health and strengthen their immune systems.
Are there any Chinese herbal medicines or soups that can enhance their immunity? How much of each herbal ingredient should be used?

[email protected], 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/07/14

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Children love candy but often lack appetite for meals, which can be a source of frustration for parents.
In clinical practice, it is common to see worried parents bringing their children to outpatient clinics, complaining that their child has a poor appetite, is short and thin, and frequently falls ill.
They hope that the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) physician can help adjust their child's gastrointestinal function and promote growth.

In principle, medication can be used for treatment.
The most direct source of nutrition for children to grow healthily is food.
However, traditional Chinese medicine believes that children are different from adults; due to incomplete development and delicate organs, children are particularly prone to gastrointestinal disorders.
If children in the household have long-term picky eating habits, it can lead to anorexia, which over time will inevitably affect their development, such as causing short stature and lifelong susceptibility to illness.
Children with poor constitution and weak immunity may seem to have a minor issue with appetite, but if they are both picky and selective eaters, it may not matter in the short term, but developing such bad habits over the long term should not be taken lightly.
TCM attributes poor appetite in children to seven factors: deficiency of stomach yin, accumulation of phlegm and dampness, weakness of the spleen and stomach, infections from pathogens, improper feeding, irregularities in dairy and food intake, and psychological factors.
Common herbal prescriptions for treatment include Si Jun Zi Tang (Four Gentlemen Decoction), Liu Jun Zi Tang (Six Gentlemen Decoction), Bao He Wan (Preserve Harmony Pill), Er Chen Tang (Two Aged Decoction), Shen Ling Bai Zhu San (Ginseng and Poria Powder), and Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang (Aromatic and Digestive Six Gentlemen Decoction).
Depending on the child's constitution, additional herbs like American ginseng, Dang Shen, Huang Qi, Goji berries, red dates, Shen Qu, hawthorn, Fu Ling, Chen Pi, Ban Xia, Zhi Ke, and Mai Ya may also be added.
However, acupuncture is generally not suitable for children, as most children are afraid of needles and may cry at the sight of them.
Therefore, TCM practitioners prefer to use herbal medicine instead of acupuncture for children.

Reply Date: 2013/07/14

More Info

Boosting immunity in young children, especially those who frequently fall ill, is a concern for many parents. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers various approaches to enhance the immune system and improve overall health. However, it is essential to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner before starting any treatment, especially for young children.

In TCM, the concept of "Qi" (vital energy) and "Xue" (blood) is fundamental. A strong immune system is often associated with a balanced and sufficient amount of Qi and Xue. Children, particularly those under the age of five, are considered to have a more delicate constitution, which makes them more susceptible to illnesses. This susceptibility can be attributed to several factors, including their developing immune systems and exposure to pathogens in environments like daycare or preschool.

For your twins, who are experiencing recurrent illnesses such as gastroenteritis, respiratory infections, and other viral infections, TCM may suggest a combination of herbal remedies and dietary adjustments to strengthen their immune systems. Some commonly used herbs in TCM that may help boost immunity include:
1. Astragalus Root (Huang Qi): Known for its immune-boosting properties, it is often used to enhance the body's resistance to infections. It can be added to soups or broths.

2. Ginseng (Ren Shen): This herb is believed to invigorate Qi and improve overall vitality. However, it should be used cautiously in young children and under the guidance of a TCM practitioner.

3. Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi): These are rich in antioxidants and are often used to nourish the liver and kidneys, which in turn can support the immune system. They can be added to teas or soups.

4. Licorice Root (Gan Cao): This herb is often used in TCM formulas to harmonize other herbs and has mild immune-boosting effects.

5. Reishi Mushroom (Ling Zhi): Known for its immune-modulating properties, it can be beneficial for children who frequently get sick.

In terms of preparation, TCM practitioners often recommend decocting these herbs into a soup or tea. The dosage can vary based on the child's age, weight, and specific health conditions. For young children, the dosages are typically lower than those for adults. A common approach is to use about 5-10 grams of dried herbs for a soup that serves multiple portions. However, it is crucial to consult with a TCM practitioner who can tailor the herbal formula to your children's specific needs.

In addition to herbal remedies, dietary considerations play a significant role in boosting immunity. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide essential nutrients that support immune function. Foods high in vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics (such as yogurt) are particularly beneficial.

Moreover, lifestyle factors such as ensuring adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and good hygiene practices can significantly impact children's immune health. Encouraging handwashing, maintaining a clean environment, and ensuring they get enough rest can help reduce the frequency of infections.

Lastly, while TCM can provide supportive care, it is essential to continue working with pediatricians and healthcare providers to monitor your children's health. If they experience severe or persistent symptoms, medical intervention may be necessary.

In summary, TCM offers various herbal remedies and dietary strategies to help boost immunity in young children. However, it is vital to seek guidance from a qualified TCM practitioner to ensure safety and effectiveness. By combining TCM approaches with conventional medical care and healthy lifestyle practices, you can help your children build a stronger immune system and reduce the frequency of illnesses.

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