Looking for natural ways to support your child’s health? Herbs can be an amazing gentle remedy for everything from cranky moods and tummy troubles to fevers and congestion. Over the years, I’ve leaned on plant-based healing for myself—and now as a parent, I love knowing I can support my little one naturally, too.
From calming the nervous system to boosting immunity and easing skin irritation, herbs offer a simple, effective way to keep our babies healthy without reaching for over-the-counter meds every time.
Here are my go-to herbs for babies and young children—and exactly how and when to use them for common childhood concerns.
🌿 Why Herbs?
I have deep respect for doctors—especially in emergencies. But I also believe in the healing power of nature. Herbs work with the body, not against it. They’re gentle, nurturing, and incredibly effective at helping the body heal itself.
Our family has used herbal remedies for years with great success. My toddler has never had a cold, rash, or even a cough. And trust me, he’s been around plenty of germs at parks, playdates, and family gatherings. I truly believe in supporting the body before sickness strikes.
👶 How to Safely Use Herbs for Babies and Kids
Herbs can be used in several ways, but my favorite method for little ones? Herbal baths. They’re easy, effective, and a total sensory win for kids. Bathing in herbs allows the healing compounds to be absorbed through the skin—our largest organ—without needing to ingest anything.
How to Make a Healing Herbal Bath:
- Steep ¼ cup dried herbs (or ½ cup fresh herbs) in ½ gallon of hot water for about 30–45 minutes (covered).
- Strain the liquid and pour it into your child’s bathwater.
- Let them soak for 10–15 minutes or more, as long as they’re comfortable.
- For illness, repeat every few hours if needed.
🌼 1. Calendula – Skin’s Best Friend
Calendula is my go-to for anything skin-related—dry patches, rashes, bug bites, baby acne, diaper rash—you name it. It’s incredibly gentle and soothing, and it even has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Use a calendula bath when:
Your little one has skin irritation, eczema, cradle cap, thrush, or diaper rash. It’s also great as a general skin-nourishing soak.
🌿 2. Lavender – Calm in a Cup (or Bath!)
Lavender is more than just a relaxing scent—it’s a natural pain reliever, mood soother, and healing powerhouse. It’s also antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory. I love adding lavender to just about every herbal bath because it smells amazing and helps settle big feelings.
Use a lavender bath when:
Your child is overstimulated, needs help falling asleep, has wounds, or just needs to relax and unwind.
🌼 3. Chamomile – The Gentle Giant
If I could only pick one herb to always have on hand, it would be chamomile. It’s a game-changer for sleep support, tummy discomfort, colic, anxiety, immune support, and even minor infections.
My little one used to have trouble winding down at bedtime—until chamomile baths became our go-to. Now he’s out like a light, fast. As a newborn, they also worked wonders on gas and fussiness.
Use a chamomile bath when:
You’re dealing with sleepless nights, tummy troubles, anxiety, or skin irritation—or simply as a calming, everyday boost.
🌿 4. Thyme – The Immunity Hero
Thyme is a must-have during cold and flu season. It’s antiviral, antibacterial, and helps clear out congestion and mucus. When someone’s been around sick people—or when something’s going around—I turn to thyme baths to boost defenses and clear up any sniffles.
Use a thyme bath when:
There’s a cough, congestion, or you’ve been exposed to illness (especially in crowded places like airports or daycares).
🍇 5. Elderflower & Elderberries – Fever Fighters & Immune Boosters
Elderberries get a lot of love for shortening colds, but don’t overlook elderflowers—they’re powerful too! Elderflowers are amazing for gently breaking fevers by encouraging natural sweating, without suppressing the body’s healing process like medications often do.
Use an elderberry and elderflower bath when:
Your child has a fever, is fighting off a cold, or during cold/flu season to strengthen their immune system.
🧴 Why I Choose Herbs Over Essential Oils for Littles
Yes, essential oils are natural—but they’re also super potent. For babies and toddlers, their bodies are still developing and are very sensitive to concentrated extracts. Herbs are gentle, whole-plant remedies that don’t overwhelm their system.
Personally, I avoid essential oils around kids under 2. After that, I only use kid-safe formulas made specifically for young children by experts.
If you’re looking for safe options for children over 2, I recommend checking out the kid-safe line by Robert Tisserand—they’re made especially for children ages 2–10 and backed by research.
🛒 Where I Buy My Herbs
While I love growing herbs in my own garden, I also keep a stash of high-quality, organic dried herbs on hand from a trusted online source. Here are my favorites:
- Chamomile – Buy Here
- Calendula – Buy Here
- Lavender – Buy Here
- Thyme – Buy Here
- Elderflower – Buy Here
- Elderberries – Buy Here
(Affiliate links may be included—thank you for supporting my small business!)
👶 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are herbs really safe for babies and toddlers?
Yes—when used appropriately, many herbs are incredibly gentle and safe for babies and young children. Always choose age-appropriate herbs and methods like herbal baths or teas under proper guidance. Avoid essential oils for children under 2.
2. What’s the best way to use herbs for babies who can’t take medicine or swallow pills?
Herbal baths are the easiest and safest method! The skin absorbs the healing properties without needing to ingest anything. You can also use herbal compresses or gentle teas (for older babies with pediatrician approval).
3. Can I use essential oils instead of herbs?
It’s best to avoid essential oils for babies under 2 due to their high concentration. Herbs are more gentle and better suited for their sensitive systems.
4. How often can I give my baby an herbal bath?
Up to 2–3 times a day when your child is sick is typically safe. For general wellness or calming, 2–3 times a week is perfect. Always monitor for any skin sensitivity.
5. Are these herbs safe for newborns?
Chamomile, calendula, and lavender are generally safe in diluted bath form for newborns. However, always do a patch test and consult with your pediatrician if you’re unsure.
6. Can I mix herbs together in the same bath?
Yes! In fact, many herbalists recommend blending herbs like chamomile and lavender for a calming effect or calendula and thyme for skin and immune support. Just keep the total amount of herbs gentle and balanced.
7. What if my baby accidentally ingests bath water with herbs?
In small amounts, it’s usually not harmful—especially if the herbs are edible and safe like chamomile or calendula. However, always supervise bath time and avoid strongly medicinal herbs unless advised by a professional.