Can children drink traditional Chinese medicine at the age of three

Three year old children can generally take Chinese medicine in moderation under the guidance of a doctor, but must strictly follow the principles of pediatric medication. The use of traditional Chinese medicine should consider factors such as physical identification, dosage adjustment, and drug compatibility, and avoid the use of toxic herbs or irritating ingredients.

1. Physical constitution identification

Children have delicate organs and insufficient qi, and traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes differentiation and treatment. It is necessary to determine the type of constitution based on tongue and pulse, bowel movements, sleep, etc. For children with spleen deficiency, it is recommended to use spleen strengthening herbs such as Taizishen and Fuling. For those with yin deficiency and excessive fire, nourishing yin medicines such as Ophiopogon japonicus and Shengdi can be selected. Do not blindly apply adult prescriptions.

2. Dose Control

The dosage of medication for children is usually 1/3-1/2 of that for adults and needs to be accurately calculated based on body weight. The dosage of Guizhi in Guizhi Tang should not exceed 3 grams, and the dosage of traditional Chinese medicine such as Xiao'er Xiaoji Oral Liquid should also be reduced according to the instructions. It is recommended to take small amounts frequently during decoction to avoid excessive intake at once.

3. Selection of Medicinal Materials

Toxic medicinal materials such as cinnabar and realgar are prohibited, and Huanglian and Dahuang, which are bitter cold and harmful to the stomach, should be used with caution. It is advisable to choose medicinal and edible homologous products such as yam, hawthorn, tangerine peel, or granules that have been treated with modern technology to reduce toxicity. Formula containing ephedra may affect the development of the nervous system and should be used under strict monitoring by a physician.

4. Compatibility taboos

Avoid interaction with Western medicine when mixed, such as Chinese medicine containing tannins affecting iron absorption. During the period of taking antibiotics, it is not advisable to use traditional Chinese medicine that can clear heat and detoxify at the same time. Some medicinal herbs may induce allergies, such as cicada molts, earthworms, and other animal medicinal herbs that require allergy testing in advance.

5. The preferred method of administration

is to choose granules or syrups with improved taste, or to mix bitterness with honey. Refuse oral administration to avoid coughing, and can be fed in small amounts multiple times. After taking the medication, observe for any adverse reactions such as rash and diarrhea. If any abnormalities occur, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

During the period of taking traditional Chinese medicine in children, it is necessary to adjust their diet and avoid raw, cold, greasy foods that may affect the efficacy of the medicine. It is recommended to choose a regular pediatric clinic of traditional Chinese medicine to prescribe medication and adjust the medication plan through regular follow-up visits. Non drug therapies such as children's massage and Tonic Diet can be used to assist in daily recuperation, such as Huaishan millet porridge for spleen strengthening and white radish water for digestion. If long-term medication is required, growth and development indicators should be evaluated every two weeks to ensure medication safety.