Homeopathic Medicine

Understanding Homeopathic Medicine for Children

Chances are good that your little one has been sick before and you’ve perused the aisles of your local pharmacy looking for any medications that could help. Along with these run-of-the-mill medications you may also notice a variety of alternative or homeopathic options that can treat everything from stomachaches and runny nose to ear infections. Is homeopathic medicine safe for children? Do they work as effectively as traditional medications? Here’s what you should know,

Homeopathy can treat a wide range of acute and chronic conditions in children and may benefit your child if they are dealing with,

  • Toothaches
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Coughs
  • Colds
  • Stomachaches
  • Nausea
  • Allergies
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Irritable bowel syndrome

While homeopathy can provide natural relief for your child’s symptoms it’s important that you aren’t using it to treat more serious and potentially dangerous conditions such as an asthma attack. Homeopathic medicine is also not an alternative to getting your child vaccinated.

It’s also a good idea to talk with our pediatricians here at Pediatric Clinic if you are interested in homeopathic treatment for your child. Not all homeopathic treatments are created equal, and it’s important that they are getting safe and effective options that are free from heavy metals. Some homeopathic remedies may not be safe for infants or children taking certain medications so it’s always important to talk with your pediatrician first.

Common homeopathy ingredients include,

Arnica: great for soothing achy, tender or painful muscles as well as bumps and bruises

Cantharis: can alleviate pain and discomfort caused by minor burns (e.g. sunburn) or blisters

Chamomilla: can help with irritability and restlessness, particularly in babies with colic

Hypericum: can provide relief for minor injuries such as burns, bruises, bites and small open wounds

Nux vomica: can treat everything from headaches and nausea to constipation and vomiting

Rhus tox: can be great for alleviating itching rashes caused by poison ivy or oak

If you have questions about any products your child is taking or about whether homeopathic medicine could be right for your child, call Pediatric Clinic in Chicago today at (773) 725-5400.