Over the past decade, researchers have become increasingly interested in the relationship between inflammation and mental health. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism have all been studied through the lens of immune function, with mixed and sometimes contradictory results. While we still have far more questions than answers,...
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a calming herb that has been used for generations to support the nervous system. In herbal medicine it is most often considered for children and teens who struggle with anxiety, difficulty falling asleep, or feeling “wired” and overstimulated, especially in the evenings. Parents often describe children...
Why oral health matters in children Dental caries remain one of the most common chronic health conditions in childhood, despite widespread access to toothbrushes, toothpaste, and professional dental care. Cavities develop through a complex interaction between oral bacteria, dietary sugars, saliva composition, and enamel integrity. In many children, frequent snacking, sweetened...
Lavender is a well-known herb that has been used for centuries to support relaxation, sleep, and emotional well-being. Today, it is one of the most commonly used natural remedies for calming the nervous system in both children and adults. In pediatric care, lavender is often explored for concerns such as...
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is an essential nutrient that plays a key role in children’s brain health, energy production, and overall development. In pediatric care, riboflavin is most commonly discussed for migraine prevention, but growing research also explores its role in skin health, mitochondrial function, and certain metabolic conditions in children....
Peppermint isn’t just a popular flavor for candy canes and tea—it has a long history of being used medicinally, especially for digestive issues. For families of children dealing with chronic tummy troubles like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), peppermint may offer a safe and natural option for relief. In this article,...
Are you a healthcare provider? Read our research summary of Petasites (Butterbur) on Naturopathic Pediatrics PRO, our website for professionals. If your child struggles with migraines, you’re not alone—and you may be wondering if there are natural, safe alternatives to conventional medications. One herb that’s been gaining attention is butterbur...
Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, is gaining recognition for its potential to help manage asthma, especially in children. These healthy fats, found primarily in fish and seafood, have impressive anti-inflammatory properties, making them an excellent option for asthma treatment. When considering fish oil for children,...
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional medicine for a variety of conditions, notably its application as a sleep aid and treatment for anxiety. Today, its application has expanded to include attention deficit and hyperactivity syndromes, helping to calm and focus the mind.1 Despite its historical...
Why is magnesium so important for children? Magnesium is an important mineral that serves as a cofactor for more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.1 Magnesium contributes to hundreds of ATP-requiring processes involved in metabolism, energy production, oxidative phosphorylation, and glycolysis. Magnesium is required to break down carbs and fat...
What is L-theanine? Theanine, an amino acid primarily found in tea leaves, particularly Camellia sinensis, and some mushrooms, has garnered considerable attention in recent years for its potential health benefits. Structurally similar to glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in brain function, theanine is known for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier...
What is Glutathione? Glutathione, often referred to as the "master antioxidant," is a naturally occurring molecule found in the cells. Glutathione is a tripeptide, meaning it is made of three amino acids (cysteine, glutamine, and glycine). It is produced in the liver and plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health....