The natural treatment of febrile illnesses in children

Tips from Melanie Grimes

The natural treatment of febrile illnesses
in children

Nothing is worse for parents than a sick child, and fever is particularly unsettling. A child can have a high fever of more than 39°C and yet not feel significantly ill. Most of the time fever is a sign that a healthy immune system is at work, raising the body's temperature to kill viruses and bacteria.

Fever does not necessarily indicate a serious illness; however a doctor or naturopath should be consulted. The normal fever response of the immune system can be treated with natural remedies that improve symptoms and provide relief.

Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homeopathy, was driven to despair when his children were ill. "Where shall I find the right help?" cried the anguished father amid his lamenting children, whom he loved above all. "Darkness and desolation everywhere - no ray of hope for my tormented paternal heart!" The plaintive cries of his feverish children seeking help led him to the discovery of the homeopathic principles: like cures like.

Ten homeopathic remedies for fever in children

1. Dulcamara is the remedy for the sudden onset of high fever. Because of muscle soreness a painful cough occurs. This can be caused by dampness or changes in the weather (to colder conditions).

Belladonna

2. Arsenicum is suitable for treating burning fevers with a sensation of cold and restlessness. The child is thirsty, restless and often nervous.

3. With Belladonna a fever is treated that rises rapidly and brings great heat, inflammation and redness. The child may also feel burning pains; it is thirsty but only drinks in small sips.

4. Aconite is a good homeopathic remedy in the early stage of an illness with the sudden onset of intense symptoms. Such a condition often occurs when the little patient has been exposed to cold wind or sudden cold.

5. Ferrum phosphoricum is a good remedy for less severe fever. It works best in the early stage of an illness or during a cold or flu attack within the first 24 hours.

6. Eupatorium is a helpful remedy for fever resulting from viral influenza. The highly febrile state causes chills and a craving for cold drinks. Eupatorium patients often complain of bone pain.

7. Nux vomica is used to treat high fever with a cold. The child feels worse from movement and drafts.

8. Pulsatilla patients have no thirst. Pulsatilla is an important fever remedy for children, especially when the child appears feverish but the body temperature is normal.

9. Pyrogenium is used to treat high fever with pain and restlessness, particularly when there is a sore feeling and the bed is perceived as too hard.

10. Rhus toxicodendron is indicated when the fever rises quickly, especially around 10 o'clock in the morning, and when there is worsening due to wet weather and getting wet.