Naturally Healthy Babies and Children: A Commonsense Guide to Herbal Remedies, Nutrition, and Health

by Aviva Romm, William Sears (Foreword)

Committed to finding natural ways to care for their children, many parents seek techniques that do not require the invasive procedures and medications often associated with Western medicine. In  Naturally Healthy Babies and Children midwife and herbalist Aviva Romm offers a comprehensive handbook that addresses the common health issues of children, from newborns to preadolescents.

Aviva's whole-child approach integrates herbal remedies, nutrition, hygiene, and alternative health techniques with supportive, informed parenting. From anemia to whooping cough, each entry includes herbal, dietary, and general recommendations, including tips on when to pursue professional medical care.  Naturally Healthy Babies and Children is indispensable reading for families seeking safe, effective ways to practice healing techniques at home.

Genres: Parenting, Health, Nonfiction, Herbs, Reference, Nutrition, Childrens

448 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Cherie · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this book was published a while ago, it is still absolutely relevant. I was seeking a good herbal book for children's healing, and this book is absolutely that. I still wish I had an herb shop around the block from me to stock up, but I am going herb shopping based on this book so I have some essentials on hand. I love Romm.

[Shayna Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been referring to this book for nearly a decade. Very excellent insights, and accessible remedies.

[Amy M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the quintessential reference book for newbie herbalists.

[Tessa Lomman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every parent should have a copy on their shelves, has been a huge help for navigating common treatable issues within our home.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every parent should own this book! Actually, even if you don't have kids it's a good one to have ready. Treating yourself instead of a child? Just up the "dose" a bit! In addition to the list of remedies, there are directions of how to make tea, salves, and tinctures, prenatal health care (nutrition, exercise, labor prep), nutrition for the whole family, and more. I love that at the back, there's a list of items for your herbal "first aid kit". If you're new to all of this and don't know where to start, I'd suggest taking a look at that list and taking a trip to the health food store.

Obviously since the title is NATURALLY Healthy Babies and Children, it's going to have more information on natural remedies--herbs, teas, salves, diet, etc.--but I like that the author acknowledges that yes, there is in fact a time and place for conventional medicine as well. I know a lot of people think that those of us into natural medicine hate conventional medicine and avoid it at any cost ("Who needs a doctor? I'll cure this horrible bleeding kidney infection with some tea and guided visualization!") but the author disputes that and always includes a section on "When to call the doctor" when necessary.

My son had a febrile seizure earlier this year and while it was very scary, I had this book out while waiting for the ambulance to come and it helped me to stay calm and answered some questions that were going through my mind.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the passage that won me over:

"Interestingly, another term from tradiationl Chinese medicine used to describe whooping cough is 'the cough of enlightenment.' It is said that the illness puts the child through a spiritual trial from which he or she emerges more peachful and patient. Praents I know whose children have had whooping cough confirm this. While none would wish it on another, perhaps whooping cough and other illnesses serve a greater psychic and spiritual purpose than we realize."

That section goes on to describe exactly how to help a children through pertussis, and I appreciate both the practical advice and the wise perspectives. I love how it goes on to say you might consider sleeping with your child to keep him calmer, etc, in addition to the use of herbs.

I read a library copy but plan to purchase this for reference at home.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a wonderful introduction to natural healing methods. Romm explains everything very thoroughly and also tells you when you need to see an actual physician for your illness. The only downfall is that most of us aren't out there collecting/preparing our own herbs, so I don't use many of the recipes. But, the herbal knowledge presented is incredibly useful. This is my "go-to" book whenever my kiddos are sick.

[Barrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now, this is a book I understand. I have so many of these herbs either in my home, in seed packets ready to be planted this spring, or within walking distance at my favorite apothecary. Everything was laid out so easily and I could see myself using this book again and again--so I never have to resort to the dreaded internet as a resource. Just put it on my registry, but if we don't get it then it might just be buy-worthy!

[Devon Trevarrow Flaherty · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really wouldn't relinquish this from my reference book collection, unless I somehow found something with pretty much the same info that was better. It is easy to use and amptly addresses people like me who wouldn't know a poultice from their own elbow (at least when I started using this).

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I use this as a common sence guide to child hood ailments. If the kids (or even me) has a minor ailment I will check this book to see if there is a natural cure. I believe strongly in the combination of natural health methods along side with allopathic care.

[Angeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book if you are seeking to care for your children's health in a more natural way. Aviva has great suggestions for different ailments. She gives you the necessary tools to address your sick child in a calm and controlled way. This is a great reference book and I use it all the time.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is awesome. It is giving me more and more validation the more I read of it. Its style is easy to read and speaks to the regular mother or parent out there trying to connect with their children and help them naturally.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I use this book a lot!

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book for children's remedies, I love it!

[Penny]

excellent book a wealth of info

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want a garden full of herbs now! This is such a hands on book (a little on the impractical side since the herbs are not readily available). Definitely given me something to strive for.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book about natural and herbal remedies. I refer to it regularly.

[Audrey Hoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good, helpful book. I use it all the time.

[Miriam Grinshtein Eber]

This is my go-to book for day to day stuff that comes up with my kids from allergies to fevers, scrapes and just overall well-being. I love Aviva for her sound, common sense advice.

[Carmella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must have for natural health and your children. Or, nieces, nephews, cousins, etc...

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recommended by Rachael. It's a great resource, and I would love to learn more about herbs.