Little Wonders

This branch of medicine uses minute doses of various plants, minerals, and animal products to stimulate an ill person’s natural defenses.

Using these highly diluted natural remedies offers a safe route to healing for children: Unlike with conventional medication, there is no risk of overdose, and parents need not be concerned about side effects or interactions with other medications or remedies. 

Choosing Wisely
When seeking the right homeopathic medicine for a youngster, keep in mind details of the child’s symptoms and behavior. Observe your child carefully and ask questions. What hurts the most? Did the symptoms come on slowly or rapidly? How do the symptoms and sleep affect each other? How does eating or drinking, bathing, and lying down or standing affect the child’s symptoms?  Keying in on signs and symptoms helps caregivers find the right remedy. 

Finding the right potency isn’t imperative; what’s most important is finding the right homeopathic medicine for the individual being treated. In contrast to conventional medicines, homeopathic remedies are not dependent on weight; the dosage of any homeopathic medicine intended for children is the same as an adult’s dosage. Rapid improvements in a little one’s symptoms tell you the correct remedy (and dosage) has been chosen. If symptoms persist or worsen, or to treat children under two years of age, contact your healthcare professional. 

SOURCES:

Essential Homeopathy by Dana Ullman, MPH ($10.95, New World Library, 2002)

“Homeopathy for Babies and Children,” The Society of Homeopaths, www.homeopathy-soh.org, 6/09

Natural Baby and Childcare by Lauren Feder, MD ($17.95, Hatherleigh Press, 2006)