Homeopathic remedies offer "alternative" for seasonal bugs

As the summer draws to a close and the weather changes, Surrey, England homeopaths are gearing up for an increase in calls for help with symptoms of winter illness.

Parents particularly are looking for alternatives to conventional drugs, as in the last few years an increasing number of over-the-counter medications have become off limits for children.

Homeopathy is a system of medicine which is based on treating the individual with highly diluted substances given mainly in tablet form, which triggers the body's natural system of healing. Based on their experience of their symptoms, a homeopath will match the most appropriate medicine to the patient.

Homeopathic medicines, known as remedies, are non-toxic and safe for use in babies and children(1), and research has shown that homeopathic remedies can be effective in the treatment of people with respiratory tract infections (2, 3), otitis media infection and inflammation of the middle ear - commonly referred to as an ear infection (4) and sinusitis (5).

Homeopath Mary Ellis, LSECH RSHom explained:

"Parents have become increasingly concerned about giving their children medications such as paracetamol and cough medicines, and many are looking for an alternative approach."

Recurrent coughs and infections should been seen by a professional homeopath registered with The Society of Homeopaths (look out for the RSHom designation)*, but homeopathic remedies can be used at home in acute short-lived conditions.
Mary said:

"There are many remedies available over the counter that could be useful in winter ailments, each having its own specific characteristics."

Remedies commonly used in winter illnesses include:

Gelsemium: the number one "flu" remedy, with symptoms slow to come on, where there is much heaviness and drooping, fatigue, clammy skin, flushes of hot and cold, dizziness and congestion.

Belladonna: indicated where the symptoms have come on suddenly and there is heat, throbbing and pain, irritability, and symptoms worse from jarring. Children can be obstinate and may bite or hit.

Pulsatilla: has blocked painful sinuses, sticky mucus, feels better in the fresh air and has a changeable, clingy mood, tearful and children will want to be carried.

Bryonia: the symptoms are slow to come on, there is much dryness and pains are worse from even the slightest movement. Firm pressure on the affected area is helpful. They are irritable and want to be left alone. Children may reject what they just asked for.

Phosphorus: this is a hacking, tickling cough, often with sweating. The patient is worse at night and might ask for icy drinks or ice cream, which may be vomited up immediately. They may be hoarse, and are better for affection and massage, and worse for cold air.

Rhus tox: slow onset with high temperature and great restlessness, constantly changing position, muscles stiff and painful. Any draft or cold air will aggravate. There is a feeling of heat inside, but skin is cold to the touch. There is a desire to sip water.

Nux Vom: throat feels rough and scraped, extending into the ear, with constricted feeling and hoarseness. Heavy feeling in stomach with nausea and vomiting. This patient is irritable and can't bear noises, light or odours.

Source: aboutmyarea.co.uk