Pelargonium for Children’s Colds

Pelargonium (P. sidoides) is one of many pelargonium (sometimes called, geranium) species that originate in South Africa. This species has attractive purple flowers but they are too small for ornamental use, unlike some of their more floriferous cousins. I have written about the medicinal Pelargonium before, explaining a bit about the herb’s origins in South Africa and its general applicability for respiratory infections in adults.

In fact, extracts of the tuberous root of Pelargonium are well suited to children over 12 months of age, as low doses are required and the taste is acceptable. In 2018 Italian researchers reviewed 8 randomised clinical trials investigating the use of this herb for upper respiratory tract infections in children. The results showed a significant improvement in symptoms, even among asthmatic and immune-compromised children. All studies reviewed reported good safety and tolerability of the herb.

More recently, a further clinical study was reported on 164 children with upper respiratory tract infections who were randomized to take either Pelargonium drops or placebo in a single-blind manner for 7 days. Pelargonium was shown to be particularly useful in the management of colds by reducing symptoms of coughing and sneezing. Pelargonium extracts are now available in pharmacies and other outlets carrying the logo of guaranteed quality – the THR (Traditional Herbal Registration) symbol. Pelargonium root extracts have been shown to have marked anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, including action against the corona virus causing Covid19. There continues to be a lot of active research interest in this herb.

Ann Walker PhD FCPP MNIMH RNutr, Herbal Practitioner and Nutritionist,
Course Director, Discovering Herbal Medicine course