Study shows more moms are giving babies herbal supplements

If you’re a mom who regularly uses herbal supplements, chances are you’re also more likely to give your baby herbal supplements for common ailments. A recent study published in the May 2, 2011 issue of Pediatrics (and conducted by the CDC and the FDA) shows that new moms who previously or currently use herbal supplements were four times more likely to give them to their babies than women who never use them. The figure represents about 9% of women surveyed.

There is also a link between breastfeeding and herbal supplement use, suggesting that women who embrace a more natural approach to infant nutrition are also more inclined to reach for naturally-based supplements or medicinal teas to relieve fussiness, digestive problems, colic, and for sleep. Nearly 6 percent of mothers who participated in this study said they had given their infant a botanical supplement or tea once during the first 12 months of their baby’s life. Another 3.6 percent reported giving their infant these products more than once during the baby’s first year.

Commonly used herbal preparations were gripe water (which may contain ginger and fennel), teething tablets, chamomile, as well as medicinal teas containing similar ingredients. Other herbal supplements or medicinal tea preparations included “chrysanthemum tea, clove oil, astragalus, comfrey, elderberry tea, flaxseed oil, garlic oil, goldenseal extract, grape extract, horehound tea, lemon tea, orange oil, orange tea, red raspberry tea, rosemary leaf tea, sambucol, slippery elm, and white oak bark,” according to Sara B. Fein, PhD, a consumer science specialist with the FDA.

In Europe, many of these preparations have been used for years to treat discomfort commonly experienced by infants. However, some doctors expressed concern that because infants may metabolize herbal supplements differently, there may be a greater risk of side effects or potential health issues. Additionally, the FDA does not heavily regulate herbal or dietary supplements. An October 2010 recall on Hyland’s Teething Tablets sparked fears of potency concerns due to an increased amount of belladonna in certain batches as a result of substandard manufacturing processes.  However, a recent FDA alert cautioning against the use of teething products containing benzocaine demonstrates that regulated over-the-counter medications are not necessarily safer either.  Drug manufacturers have also decided to stop production of infant doses of acetaminophen because of the risk of accidental overdose.

It’s encouraging that parents are looking for natural or drug-free remedies to treat and comfort routine infant health issues, rather than simply dosing with over-the-counter medications. Many over-the-counter medications (particularly to treat cold, cough or flu symptoms) are for multi-symptom use, which can increase the possibility of accidental overdose.  

As with anything else, an educated consumer is a safe consumer. Know the benefits and risks of using herbal supplements, including possible interactions with other dietary supplements or drugs. Purchase reputable products that have been manufactured using high-grade ingredients. Use the lowest dose recommended for your baby or child’s age group, and pay attention for any adverse side effects.  Many herbal supplements marketed for children are generally safe, but always consult your pediatrician if there are questions or concerns.