Coughs, fevers, colds, earaches, scrapes and bruises…these things aren’t just part of having kids, they’re a rite of passage. As parents, we learn early on that short of keeping our kids in a bubble (and trust me, I’ve considered it), there’s not much we can do to prevent their exposure to common childhood ailments, some that are mild and some that cause us seemingly endless worry. The question then remains, what’s a parent to do? With all of the debate about vaccinations, over-prescribing of antibiotics and mutations in viruses like the flu, many parents are concerned about the long term impacts of modern medicine. And while there’s no denying that modern medicine has increased overall life expectancy, decreased childhood mortality and provided cures to diseases and conditions that once seemed incurable, some parents are looking for alternatives. For many, that alternative is homeopathic medicine.
Of course, the debate over modern medicine vs. homeopathic cures has raged on for centuries. And like any good debate, there are two camps – each quite adamant that their side is right. However, there’s also that in-between crowd – the ones that aren’t fully convinced either way, or maybe prefer to try a little of each. Regardless of where you stand, we can all agree that our children’s health comes first – and nothing is worse than watching them suffer through the aches and pains of childhood illnesses.
As with most things, you’ve got to decide what works best for your family. If you are interested in homeopathic alternatives for common ailments, we’ve created a simple resource guide that will walk you through the basics of homeopathy, common homeopathic medicines and the symptoms that they treat.
Please keep in mind, however, that your intuition as a parent is your greatest superpower. We don’t ever recommend self-diagnosing severe conditions; so if you feel an ailment is serious or only gets worse with time, always consult a medical professional.
In the meantime, take a minute to review these all-natural remedies that you can stock in your medicine cabinet for quick relief from those day-to-day ailments that will inevitably come your way.
What is Homeopathic Medicine?
Homeopathic medicine refers to medical practice that “embraces a holistic, natural approach to the treatment of the sick,” according to the American Institute of Homeopathy. This simply means that homeopathy treats the entire person, rather than just the part of the person that is sick, or the sickness itself. Homeopathic medicine also approaches symptoms of illness as perfectly natural ways of the body attempting to regulate its own health.
While many of the guiding principles and ingredients found in today’s homeopathic medicine and cures date back centuries, it was it was German physician, Dr. C. F. Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843), who founded our modern understanding of the practice and popularized homeopathy as a more formal system of medicine.
Dr. Hahnemann expanded on the ancient principle of “like cures like.” This means that if a certain substance causes a particular effect in a healthy person, then a small dose (i.e., highly diluted) of the same substance will cure, or counteract, the same symptoms in a sick person.
The remedies used in this type of medical practices are derived from completely natural sources, whether animal, vegetable or mineral. Herbs, powders and oils are common in homeopathic medicine and many of the cures have been used for centuries. This is why you will sometimes here homeopathic medicine referred to as “traditional medicine.” Another common name for homeopathy is “alternative medicine,” because while conventional medical practices may not share the antiquity of many homeopathic cures, they are the most commonly used resources and treatments in today’s society.
Is Homeopathy Safe?
Like any medicine, modern or otherwise, too much of a good thing is not always a good thing, so following dosage instructions is just as important with homeopathic medicines as it is with chemical medicines. But, fortunately, homeopathic practices and remedies have been regulated in the United States since 1938 and are considered to be very safe. In fact, most homeopathic medicines can be purchased at health food stores or pharmacies and don’t require a prescription.
However, you should always tell your doctor if you are thinking about homeopathic remedies. Most practitioners, even those in conventional medical practices, will be able to help you make the best choices about what, how and when to use homeopathic treatments.
Common Homeopathic Remedies and The Symptoms They Treat
Now for the good stuff. If you’ve been considering homeopathic remedies as an alternative to modern medicine, or just want to have all-natural treatments on hand to help boost and maintain your children’s health and immune system, then the following medicines are the perfect place to start.
Arnica Montana
Arnica Montana is a flower in the daisy family. Arnica, or “mountain daisy,” can be taken orally as a pill, capsule or liquid; or it can be applied topically as an ointment, gel or cream. It is one of the most common homeopathic medicines and many consider it a must-have for their first-aid kit, because of its healing properties for accident-prone kids…which is pretty much every kid ever.
What it’s used for:
- bruises
- sprains
- hematomas
- muscle or joint injuries
- post traumatic shock
- muscle soreness in the legs due to fast growth (i.e., growing pains)
Belladonna
Belladonna is a plant that is considered one of the best cures for fever in children. The name, which means “beautiful lady,” came from an ancient Italian practice in which women would use belladonna berry juice to enlarge their pupils so as to appear more striking or beautiful. Fortunately, our standards of beauty have evolved, because belladonna can actually be poisonous if taken incorrectly. As a homeopathic cure, the leaf and root are used to create tablets and ointments that are highly diluted, therefore, safe and effective for a number of symptoms.
What it’s used for:
- Fevers, particularly high fevers, in children
- Bronchial spasms, like those found in asthma and whooping cough
- Colds
- Hay fever
- Colic
- Motion sickness
- Pain relief
- Headache
- Swollen glands
- Tonsilitis
- Joint pain
- Leg pain related to sciatica
- Nerve pain
- Bronchial asthma
- Hyperkinesis (excessive sweating)
Calendula Officinalis
Calendula, or marigold, is not just another pretty face. This commonly known flower is even more commonly seen in homeopathic first aid kits. It is a staple topical remedy for homeopathy and is rich in antioxidants, as well as being celebrated for its anti-inflammatory properties. This multi-functional flower is considered the number one homeopathic remedy for healing wounds and can be used as a cream, oil, gel, compress, tincture or tea. The calendula flower is even safe to eat and is gentle enough for babies and the elderly.
What it’s used for:
- Healing cuts and lacerations
- Sealing wounds (because it speeds up the healing of tissue)
- Preventing secondary infection in open sores, scrapes or cuts
- Diaper rash
- Breast tenderness or soreness due to breastfeeding
- Calming muscle spasms
- Ear infections (when used in the form of ear drops)
- Anti-inflammation
Eupatorium Perfoliatum
This herb, also known as boneset, was a favorite medicinal remedy for Native American Tribes, and its easy to see why. Eupatorium Perfoliatum has many healing properties and can be taken as an infusion (soaking the dried herb in boiling water) or a tea. Many parents will be happy to know that this inauspicious little plant can bring big relief when it comes to flu symptoms, often easing the fever, aches and pains that plague children and adults alike.
What it’s used for:
- Fever
- Aches and pains associated with the flu and other illnesses
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Colds
- Coughs
Hepar Sulphur Calcereum
This mineral, which is also called calcium sulphide or sulphur of lime, comes from a place you might not expect. Hepa Sulphur is prepared by burning the white inner lining of an oyster shell with pure sulphur. If that sounds a bit harsh, then you’ll be even more surprised to know that it’s one of the most popular homeopathic remedies for skin conditions. Go figure.
What it’s used for:
- Acne
- Skin abscesses
- Sores
- Eczema
- Sinus pressure
- Constipation
- Sore throat (with swelling)
- Insect bites
- Colds
- Earaches
Hypericum
You may know this flowering plant by its other name: St. John’s Wort. While many know its calming and anti-anxiety benefits, not everyone is aware that it is also an exceptional topical first aid remedy, especially for injuries occurring in places where nerve ending are abundant. This includes fingers, lips, eyes, the spine and the tailbone. For example, if your little one slams their finger in the door (or their older sibling does it for them), Hypericum will provide fast and effective pain relief.
What it’s used for:
- Emotional nervousness or anxiety
- Mood improvement/ stabilization
- Injuries to areas containing significant nerve endings (ex: fingers, lips, eyes, spine and tailbone)
- Puncture wounds
- Neck injuries
- Concussions
- First and second degree burns
Rhus Toxicodendron (Rhus Tox)
In the interest of full disclosure, you should know that Rhus Tox is most commonly referred to as poison ivy. Yes, that poison ivy. Rhus tox is taken orally as a tincture or in tablet form and, believe it or not, is a top choice for many ailments, including achy joints and itchy skin. Nature is full of surprises, isn’t it?
What it’s used for:
- Aches and pains often associated with the flu and other illnesses
- Stiff muscles and joints
- Sore or stiff backs
- Sciatica
- Shingles
- Hives
- Chicken pox
- Poison ivy
- Skin rash and irritation
Chammomilla
This dainty flower is most commonly known as chamomile; and even if you’re not a believer in homeopathic cures, chances are you’ve experienced its calming effect in the form of herbal tea. But while chamomile might taste like a mild and soothing relaxant, it packs a powerful punch when it comes to curing a wide array of ailments and conditions. Take a look at the list below and you’ll never think of chamomile tea the same way again.
What it’s used for:
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Earaches
- Fever
- Bloating and/or gas
- Insomnia
- Joint Pain
- Teething in infants
- Toothache
- Vomiting
- Colic
- Swollen Glands
Arsenicum Album
As you may have guessed from the name, Arsenicum Album is none other than arsenic. Suffice it to say, as a homeopathic remedy, this organic compound is diluted down until there is little or no arsenic left in the solution. What is left is the perfect example of the homeopathic principle of “like cures like.” When used as a poison, arsenic can cause stomach pain, vomiting and cramping (just watch any James Bond movie). However, these symptoms can actually be relieved by Arsenicum Album. In its kinder, gentler form, this homeopathic remedy cures a myriad of ailments and can even be used on animals.
What it’s used for:
- Food poisoning
- Flu or flu-like symptoms
- Anxiety
- Asthma
- Cold
- Diarrhea
- Burning or watery eyes and pink eye
- Sore throat
- Skin conditions
- Nausea and vomiting
- Indigestion and heartburn
Homeopathic medicine is not for everyone. But for those who are looking for something other than conventional medicines, homeopathic remedies provide a safe, natural alternative. If you’re interested in using homeopathic remedies on a regular basis for yourself or your family, the best thing you can do is educate yourself. Be sure to check out some of the links listed below, contact a homeopathic doctor near you or talk with your general physician to find out the best ways to incorporate the remedies listed above, as well others, into your health and wellness routines.
Additional Homeopathic Resources
National Center for Homeopathy (NCH)
American Institute for Homeopathy
The North American Society of Homeopaths (NASH)
