U.S. and Austrian researchers reviewing the use of dietary supplements in children have found some data showing they are effective, but nothing conclusive. Researchers at the University of Illinois in Chicago and Karl-Franzens-Universitaet in Graz, Austria, found the herbal supplement Andrographis paniculata reduced colds by 70 percent, but only if taken for at least two months. Other studies show it may reduce upper respiratory infections. The data supported the belief that evening primrose oil supplements improve dermatitis in children and helped hyperactive kids to focus on the task in front of them. Hyperactive boys also benefited from valerian with one study, which found when they took valerian nightly for two weeks, their sleep improved in length and quality. Cough tablets made with dried ivy leaf may ease chronic bronchitis in children, so much so that one-third of kids taking the supplement stopped exhibiting bronchitis symptoms. There was not enough data, however, to judge the effectiveness of chamomile, feverfew, ginger, and ginkgo biloba in children. The researchers also found no evidence cranberry juice or cranberry supplements cured or improved preventing urinary tract infections, garlic helped cardiovascular problems, or Echinacea eased cold symptoms. The researcher appears in the March issue of The Journal of Pediatrics. © Copyright 2005 by United Press International

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