Homeopathic Tips for Helping Children Through Teething

As a parent and a carer, nothing pulls (teeth puns incoming) at your heartstrings more than seeing your child in discomfort. Whether it's the relentless teething pain or the sniffles of a seasonal cold, homeopathy can offer gentle solutions to ease their suffering. Here, I share with you some homeopathic remedies that can make your days (and nights) much easier, especially during those challenging teething phases. 

Homeopathic Teething Support

Teething can create an interesting time when the teeth start to move in the gums from as early as 3 months, all the way up to 18 months, then we get about a 6 month break before the final crescendo that is ‘The 2 year old molars’. Homeopathic remedies provide noticeable relief, not only to the physical symptoms but the emotional and mental expressions as well. 

The challenge lies in the frequency of those teething episodes. The general rule of thumb remains: match the intensity of symptoms with the dosing. When you see marked pain, administer a remedy every 10-15 minutes for 3-4 doses, then adjust as they improve or if the symptoms heighten again.

Here are some powerful remedies to have on hand:

• Aconite: Ideal for teething with fever. If your baby is biting fists and crying, Aconite can help when symptoms first appear.

• Apis: Effective for red, swollen gums, particularly if the baby is restless and irritable.

• Belladonna: Excellent for teething with red, inflamed gums and a high fever. Helps with restlessness and agitation.

• Chamomilla: Perfect for teething with intense irritability. If your child is screaming and biting everything, Chamomilla can soothe them.

• Ferrum Phos: Good for mild fever and general discomfort associated with teething.

• Calc Phos: Great for teething and growing pains. This remedy supports overall development during growth spurts.

I also have two mixes that I make up:

1. A Chamomilla and Arnica Blend which comes in 30c or 200c

2. ABC mix which has Aconite 30, Bella 3c and Chamomilla 3c

Both of these tend to be the acute support that aims to ‘turn the notches of intensity’ down. Constitutional prescribing alongside acute prescribing is what I would like to label - the magic mix when it comes to supporting through this time.

Remember, teething is part of the developmental milestone leaping… each tooth will either precede or follow a massive shift in mental, emotional and physical milestones. 

Each tooth location represents a different development of the mind:

• Incisors: These front teeth are linked to our decision making and ability to assert yourself.

• Canines: These pointed teeth represent your primal instincts and survival skills.

• Premolars: These teeth are associated with trust, loyalty, and relationships.

• Molars: The back teeth are connected to your sense of grounding, stability, and ability to process life experiences.

Three Tips for Empowering you in your child’s care:

1. Stay Observant and Responsive: Pay close attention to your child’s symptoms and how they change throughout the day. Homeopathy works best when remedies are tailored to the individual’s specific symptoms. Keep a journal to track what works and what doesn’t, and be ready to adjust the dosing frequency based on your child’s needs.

   
   

2. Learn the Basics of Homeopathy: Empower yourself by learning the basics of homeopathy. Familiarise yourself with a few key remedies and their indications. This knowledge can be a game-changer, allowing you to provide immediate relief and support during acute illnesses. Consider attending a homeopathy workshop or reading reputable books to deepen your understanding.

   
   

3. Focus on Constitutional Remedies: While acute remedies are fantastic for immediate relief, identifying your child’s constitutional remedy can offer profound, long-term benefits. A constitutional remedy is chosen based on a person’s overall physical, emotional, and mental picture. Consulting with a qualified homeopath can help you find the right constitutional remedy for your child, promoting optimal health and resilience.

Navigating your child’s illnesses can be challenging, but with the right homeopathic knowledge, you can feel empowered and equipped to handle these situations gracefully. Remember, each remedy has multiple actions and benefits, and figuring out your child’s constitutional remedy can optimise their response in both acute and chronic conditions.

Yay for teething help and support!

As always, trust your instincts and seek additional medical advice should symptoms persist or worsen. 

Warmest,

Martine