Homeopathy provides an alternative for parents to treat a variety of common ailments experienced by their children. Homeopathy matches symptoms with remedies that engage the body’s natural healing responses. The remedies are given in liquids or pellets or are applied to the skin in lotions, gels or ointments. The Society of Homeopaths states that homeopathic remedies are safe and non-toxic and may be used by even very young children.
How to Use Homeopathy
Each illness has it’s own set of symptoms. Choose a homeopathic remedy that best fits the symptoms your child is currently exhibiting. As an illness progresses the symptoms may change, thus the remedy may need to change as well. Consult with a professional homeopath for constitutional remedies and for hard to diagnose situations.
Coughs and Colds
Various homeopathic remedies for children are available to treat colds and coughs. Aconitum is for colds with dry coughs that are worse at night. Allium Cepa works for non-burning watery eyes and burning watery nasal discharge that is relieved by fresh air. Arsenicum supports burning nasal discharge, sneezing, and colds that move into the throat. Belladonna is best for colds with quick onset, fever, flushed cheeks, dry cough, and a sore throat or laryngitis. Kali Bichromium helps with thick, stringy nasal discharge, mucus coming up with a cough, and for later stages of colds. Bryonia is for colds that drop into the chest and coughs that are aggravated by movement, warm rooms, and eating. Pulsatilla supports colds with thick yellow or green mucus and weepy or clingy behavior by the child.
Bruises, Scrapes, and Rashes
Arnica is a classic homoepathic remedy for muscle injuries and a staple for first aid kits. For localized injuries apply it in a lotion or gel directly to unbroken skin. For more significant injuries or if the skin is broken, use Arnica in pellet form. Calendula ointment heals scrapes to the skin and soothes rashes. It can also be used to prevent diaper rash.
Teething
Chamomile is the most recommended homeopathic remedy for children who are teething. It helps to relieve the irritability and impatience as well as decrease teething pain. Belladonna is called for when children are in a lot of pain, gums and lips are red and swollen, and they scream and bite from the pain.
Bites and Stings
Many insect bites cause itching, pain, and swelling for children. For bites or stings that itch, are sensitive when touched, and are relieved by applying cold to the area, Ledum is the recommended homoepathic remedy. Apis is most beneficial for bites that are inflamed and cause a burning pain. Staphysagria is the appropriate remedy when welts or swelling occur. For shooting or sharp pain from a bite or sting, Hypericum is recommended.
Warning
Medical care should be sought from a physician in cases of severe or chronic medical needs.
About this Author
Lisa Vratny-Smith, is a social worker, behavior consultant, and yoga instructor. She has worked with children and families for more than 20 years, providing expertise in child development and behavior management. Vratny-Smith writes the Mama Drama column for “Mile High Mamas” and the Laughing Yoga Mama blog.
