Prior to working with Path Wellbeing, this seven-year-old client was experiencing atopic dermatitis (eczema), frequent colds, seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and digestive issues.
Onset of atopic dermatitis (eczema) began in infancy on the knees, elbows, and chest. Flare ups were more frequent and severe in the winter months. Their parents and caregivers attempted to combat the itch, redness, rash and dry, scaly skin with frequent washing of the skin and topical corticosteroids.
The client experienced frequent colds throughout the year. When they were younger, this was not very concerning for their parents as they were in childcare and exposed to different viruses and bacteria for the first time. As they got older, the persistently recurring colds needed to be addressed.
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis were traced back to the age of three, when nasal congestion, watery, itchy eyes, sneezing, cough, and post nasal drip became prevalent during late summer and early fall.
They had been taking cetirizine liquid – an antihistamine – for three years and topical corticosteroids for five years. They frequently missed school due to recurring viruses.
They experienced gas, bloating, and abdominal pain.
Their parents sought Ayurvedic care as they became increasingly more concerned about their child’s innate immune system and quality of life and failed to get results from traditional healthcare. Their primary goals were to improve skin condition and reduce recurring colds.
A full intake and assessment was completed for the child with their mother present. The practitioner was able to determine the constitution and current state of being which provided the foundation for their treatment plan.
Atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies are understood as related health conditions in allopathic medicine. From an Ayurvedic perspective, digestion is seen as a root cause of disease. Healing digestion was paramount for the treatment plan.
Initially, an anti-inflammatory diet plan that avoided common allergies such as peanuts, eggs, milk, and soy was recommended. A combination of cleansing and tonifying recipes were provided to remove toxins and irritants, balance digestive fire, increase absorption and heal the mucosal lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Warm, moist, cooked, and easily digestible meals were required. Healthy fats such as avocado oil and ghee were used in meals. Aged grains and cereals such as oats, amaranth, and quinoa were emphasized. The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in squash were used in versatile recipes. Vitamin C was also increased through cherries, berries, citrus, and pomegranate. Bone broth was used in place of vegetable stock or water to support the digestive system as well as the building stage of life.
Generally speaking there are many herbs that are safe for children. For this case, we focused on turmeric, tulsi (holy basil), cardamom, ginger, and cumin based on their constitution and current imbalances. Their mother incorporated many of these digestive spices into their regular meals. The child consumed herbal teas to support digestion throughout the day and an anti-inflammatory turmeric latte in the evenings. These herbs were safe and effective for the client and helped to heal the digestive fire, increase absorption, and cool and cleanse the blood.
The child’s Ayurvedic evening routine consisted of abhyanga, or oil massage, with specifically curated herbs followed by oatmeal baths. The child enjoyed short yoga sequences, moving through a few poses consecutively to massage the internal organs, improve circulation, and calm the mind. We also introduced guided meditations that focused on the water element and encouraged imagination.
The family switched brands and ingredients of all of their skincare and home products to introduce a toxin-free and less-irritating environment. These recommendations required experimentation and cooperation from the parents, child and practitioner in order to instill routines with the most appropriate medicines for their families lifestyle and the personality and willingness of the child.
Their mother was eager not only in implementing the treatment plan but also in understanding Ayurvedic principles and the science behind the recommendations. We worked closely together on a weekly basis. We offered many creative supports to adhere to the comfort levels and preferences of the young client.
Within three months, the child’s skin improved significantly without the use of topical corticosteroids. Their sleep quality also improved as there was less itching throughout nights. Digestive disruptions significantly reduced and this resulted in more enjoyment around meals and eating.
We maintained regular appointments in order to make necessary adjustments and navigate the seasons appropriately. The child’s atopic dermatitis subsided and the number of days absent from school due to cold symptoms reduced significantly. There was an overall increase in enjoyment of being at school with their friends. However, it was important to maintain the protocol to enable deep healing and continue targeting lasting effects.
When late summer and early fall came around again – after 10 months of diligently following the treatment plan – this client did not suffer severe symptoms of allergic rhinitis. They did get one cold in October where they needed to take time to rest and adjust to the seasonal shifts but quickly recovered. This was a huge success for everyone! They are going to continue following the cycles of nature through the lens of Ayurveda to heal allergies at their root cause, increase immunity and provide a strong foundation for a healthy future.
Book A Complimentary Consultation
We would love to learn more about you, your health concerns, and your wellbeing goals to see if Path Wellbeing is a good fit for you.
Complete Your Intake Form
This is a comprehensive intake questionnaire that will help our team develop a curated treatment plan that meets your holistic needs.
Book A Private Session
Here, you’ll meet with one of our highly-qualified practitioners and we’ll begin helping you create the body you need for the life you love
Receive Your Assessment & Individualized Treatment Plan
Our detailed assessment will reveal the current state of your health and recommend a customized treatment plan for recovery and healing
Follow Your New Path
Now is the time to begin your path to wellbeing. Our skilled team will walk alongside you with innovative support and guidance.
Opt Into Long-Term Support
Ensure your new path is sustainable and maintain all the progress you’ve made. Long-term support leaves room to make adjustments as needed.
Help them find their path to heal holistically by giving them a gift card to use toward our services.
Join our newsletter for
~ exclusive wellbeing insights
~ early access to our classes/courses/workshops
~ holistic healing strategies
~ a free downloadable PDF: “Anti-Inflammatory Basic Principles”
~ Learn Your Dosha – Ayurvedic Constitutional Self-Assessment
All so you can learn how to live your best life.