Gastroenteritis is caused by an inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines. It is a most often a viral condition, but can also be caused by food poisoning, parasites or food-borne bacteria. Most children who experience bouts of gastroenteritis make a full recovery quickly and without undue complications. But it is always a worry to parents when a child becomes ill. Timely treatment is called for, and for those who would like to be actively involved in the care of their children's common ailments, homeopathy offers a fast, effective and inexpensive treatment.
Arsenicum Album
According to William Boericke in his book "Materia Medica and Repertory," Arsenicum is the first remedy to think of for gastroenteritis. This remedy is helpful for profuse vomiting and/or diarrhea accompanied by burning, restlessness and anxiety. The child may be thirsty for little sips of cold drinks and may also feel chilly, and want company or be afraid to be left alone.
Veratrum Album
Herbs2000.com mentions Veratrum album for cases where vomiting and diarrhea are accompanied by cold sweats. The child may be quite weak, lightheaded and appear very pale, with dark circles around the eyes and bluish-colored lips.
Aloe
Aloe can be used to relive stomach symptoms such as involuntary loss of stool and diarrhea with burning pains in the rectum or anus. There may be nausea, accompanied by burning in the stomach and esophagus, as well, says Boericke.
Podophyllum
Podophyllum can be used for gastroenteritis if there is painless diarrhea that is greenish in color, accompanied by lots of abdominal gurgling and cramping. The child may be worse in the early morning, according to Herbs2000.com.
Chamomilla
Use Chamomilla if there is a great deal of cramping and colic where the child doubles over in pain. This is excellent for a colicky baby with no known reason for the pain. The child may pass gas and be red in the face from crying, seemingly inconsolable.
Pulsatilla
Frans Vermuelen, in his "Synoptic Materia Medica," says that pulsatilla can be used for gastroenteritis where there is copious diarrhea, bright yellow in color but with no burning. There may be nausea and vomiting, and the child may ask for foods such as ice cream, pudding and custard to sooth her stomach. There is usually no thirst, and the child may want fresh air, either from an open window or to go outside. She may whine, or be very mild-mannered, want company and be afraid to be left alone.
References
- "Materia Medica and Repertory"; William Boericke; 1987 Indian edition
- "Synoptic Materia Medica"; Frans Vermeulen; 1992
- Herbs2000.com: Gastroenteritis
Member Comments