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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Is it a con or can it help my sick child?

392 replies

Nightswimminginoldpants · 21/08/2025 23:11

Homeopathy?

Feeling a bit vulnerable at the moment, so not sure if it’s clouding my view.

Dd is ill and I’m getting desperate. Have been talking to a homeopathist online, she is very intent that homeopathy will help my Dd get better.

Does it work?

OP posts:
Thread gallery
7
oldclock · 22/08/2025 06:25

FeelingForced · 22/08/2025 05:41

Homoeopathy worked wonders on my toddler son's eczema years ago. It cleared up his skin the way that steroid creams never could. I don't think it could be a placebo effect either, as I didn't tell him that what he was drinking was supposed to be medicine.
I was dubious about it before we started, but it worked. This is just personal experience, of course.

Lots of creams that are theoretically homeopathic, when analysed actually contain very strong steroids or immunosuppressants. Thats the likely explanation

oldclock · 22/08/2025 06:25

Morningsleepin · 22/08/2025 04:38

Homeopathy is brilliant. Here in Mexico, it is highly respected and a lot of people use it.

Lots of creams that are theoretically homeopathic, when analysed actually contain very strong steroids or immunosuppressants. Thats the likely explanation

BusWankers · 22/08/2025 06:28

BunfightBetty · 22/08/2025 01:12

In my experience it works brilliantly, and can often work well when conventional medicine doesn't, BUT this is dependent on getting the exact right remedy and that can be tricky. It's important to work with a skilled homeopath.

I completely understand why people pooh-pooh it, I can't explain why it works, it shouldn't really, based on what we currently know. But I have had many good experiences over many years, including treating animals who didn't know they were getting any remedies. The fact it does work in my experience is good enough for me. I don't expect to convince any skeptics though - you do you!

As long as you keep up with any medical treatment, and can afford the consultation fee, then I think to me it seems reasonable to give it a go. What's the harm.

Well ... What did the magic water help you with? In what way did water cure your ailments?

BusWankers · 22/08/2025 06:29

autienotnaughty · 22/08/2025 06:01

I tried homeopathy for severe anxiety. It did not help.
hypnotherapy helped a lot but not sure if it would be suitable for a child

If course we r didn't. Water doesn't help with anxiety.

Mumofoneandone · 22/08/2025 06:29

I'm a fan of homeopathy, used correctly, through a experienced practitioner, it can have really positive results. However, I'm also pragmatic in engaging with NHS medicine as needed. A decent homeopath will encourage you to use conventional medicine - if they don't, avoid them.
It's worth contacting Helios homeopathy - details on line for some guidance.
It's also worth exploring other forms of complementary medicine as NHS medicine doesn't have all the answers. (FWIW I've been diagnosed with CFS/ME - by the NHS but they do next to nothing to support recovery. I'm having to explore and use a variety of other avenues to improve my health. I'm due to homeopathy to the mix of therapies soon.....)
My mum's thyroid issues were cured with homeopathy and a friend's skin issues. Also have family who've used it to support healing of broken bones.
Homeopathy is knocked by much of the science industry because it doesn't pass tests in a certain way. Also, if it actually cures people, there's no need for them to continue taking expensive drugs created by big pharmaceutical companies. Whilst we do, at times, need to use mainstream drugs, the pharma industry is invested in making money. They can also cause harm.

Mumtobabyhavoc · 22/08/2025 06:29

FeelingForced · 22/08/2025 05:41

Homoeopathy worked wonders on my toddler son's eczema years ago. It cleared up his skin the way that steroid creams never could. I don't think it could be a placebo effect either, as I didn't tell him that what he was drinking was supposed to be medicine.
I was dubious about it before we started, but it worked. This is just personal experience, of course.

Or he could have grown out of it as many do.

BusWankers · 22/08/2025 06:30

Why would WATER be the solution to all your ailments?

If it was, nobody would get ill...

Booboobagins · 22/08/2025 06:32

Years before big pharmacy came along, homeopathy was all we had.

Indigenous tribes still use it. My dad used to make his own medicine, it was unbelievable.

It can work, but without specifics, who knows if you're being sold snake oil or not. My view would be to start thinking your child is well, tell your child to start thinking they are well. Tell the body to self heal (I know it sounds barmy but lots of scientific research going into this right now) and if the homeopathy isnt expensive, you can afford it, and it doesnt workcobtrary to the medication your DC is taking, try it.

Btw 25-50% of pharmaceuticals are derived from plants/natural substances.

spoonbillstretford · 22/08/2025 06:34

Booboobagins · 22/08/2025 06:32

Years before big pharmacy came along, homeopathy was all we had.

Indigenous tribes still use it. My dad used to make his own medicine, it was unbelievable.

It can work, but without specifics, who knows if you're being sold snake oil or not. My view would be to start thinking your child is well, tell your child to start thinking they are well. Tell the body to self heal (I know it sounds barmy but lots of scientific research going into this right now) and if the homeopathy isnt expensive, you can afford it, and it doesnt workcobtrary to the medication your DC is taking, try it.

Btw 25-50% of pharmaceuticals are derived from plants/natural substances.

You are mixing up homeopathy with herbal medicine.

BusWankers · 22/08/2025 06:34

FeelingForced · 22/08/2025 05:41

Homoeopathy worked wonders on my toddler son's eczema years ago. It cleared up his skin the way that steroid creams never could. I don't think it could be a placebo effect either, as I didn't tell him that what he was drinking was supposed to be medicine.
I was dubious about it before we started, but it worked. This is just personal experience, of course.

Drinking water did not clear your son's eczema.

VimtoGarden · 22/08/2025 06:34

Booboobagins · 22/08/2025 06:32

Years before big pharmacy came along, homeopathy was all we had.

Indigenous tribes still use it. My dad used to make his own medicine, it was unbelievable.

It can work, but without specifics, who knows if you're being sold snake oil or not. My view would be to start thinking your child is well, tell your child to start thinking they are well. Tell the body to self heal (I know it sounds barmy but lots of scientific research going into this right now) and if the homeopathy isnt expensive, you can afford it, and it doesnt workcobtrary to the medication your DC is taking, try it.

Btw 25-50% of pharmaceuticals are derived from plants/natural substances.

No we had herbal medicines - this is not the same as homeopathy.

HumphreyCobblers · 22/08/2025 06:35

Are you in the PANS/PANDAS UK Facebook group? Excellent support to be found there. Also you won't get people mentioning what a controversial diagnosis it is, particularly galling when you and you child are struggling in the middle of a flare.

BusWankers · 22/08/2025 06:37

Booboobagins · 22/08/2025 06:32

Years before big pharmacy came along, homeopathy was all we had.

Indigenous tribes still use it. My dad used to make his own medicine, it was unbelievable.

It can work, but without specifics, who knows if you're being sold snake oil or not. My view would be to start thinking your child is well, tell your child to start thinking they are well. Tell the body to self heal (I know it sounds barmy but lots of scientific research going into this right now) and if the homeopathy isnt expensive, you can afford it, and it doesnt workcobtrary to the medication your DC is taking, try it.

Btw 25-50% of pharmaceuticals are derived from plants/natural substances.

Oh yes, I'll get my mother to fix her failing heart with the power of a positive mental attitude and drinking water. 🙄

Serpentstooth · 22/08/2025 06:38

If homeopathý offered effective treatments there wouldn't be a pharmaceutical industry. It's magic, OP, for the easily persuaded. Please don't trust your child's health to charlatans.

Greysowhat · 22/08/2025 06:39

Sorry but homeopathy will not help

Zezet · 22/08/2025 06:48

So sorry to hear about her illness.
Homeopathy won't help.
(Agree with others it's distinct from herbal therapy, though perhaps you said homeopathy when you meant any alternative therapy?)
Good luck to you and her.

missrabbit1990 · 22/08/2025 06:49

It’s a con sadly. So sorry your child is suffering .

Squishymallows · 22/08/2025 06:50

Watch the new Panorama documentary on alternative medicine. It’s interesting. And RIP Paloma

Onethinnyatatime · 22/08/2025 06:51

Homeophaty = CON.
Depending on the sickness there are some alternatives that could help like herbal, acupuncture, acupressure,etc. Please, get specific advice from a medical, qualified professional before trying anything new.
I am sorry that your child is sick and wishing a full, quick recovery.

Lilactimes · 22/08/2025 06:52

Nightswimminginoldpants · 21/08/2025 23:11

Homeopathy?

Feeling a bit vulnerable at the moment, so not sure if it’s clouding my view.

Dd is ill and I’m getting desperate. Have been talking to a homeopathist online, she is very intent that homeopathy will help my Dd get better.

Does it work?

Dear @Nightswimminginoldpants im so sorry for what you’re going through. I can only imagine how difficult it is to deal with.

i am a big believer in trying different types of meds (Chinese / Ayervedic and also taking supplements) however I genuinely don’t believe homeopathy works.

If I were you, I would ensure you’re getting a break and looking after yourself frequently enough that you don’t burn out and have strength to deal with this. Do what you need to, so you have the strength to keep fighting for your DC

I would try and ensure you’re following the best medical advice and taking all the meds supplied and throw money at psychiatric support and CBT for your child. And ensure you’re receiving the best advice on how to parent - holding the line on behaviours so they don’t get worse through enabling etc.

I am a big believer in the health of the gut micro biome especially if your DC is taking a antibiotics long term. I do feel as a secondary support to everything else medical you’re probably doing, I would improve this rather than homeopathy. However, I totally get this may be hard if DC not wanting to eat properly or being oppositional or your just simply exhausted .

I hope you’re ok x x

Pricelessadvice · 22/08/2025 06:52

My mum went through the same with me when I was very ill as a child. Homeopathy did nothing.

She really cleaned up my diet though- only organic food, lots of veg, fruit, nuts and seeds. Vitamins, minerals, Fresh air, controlled exercise etc.

Worldgonecrazy · 22/08/2025 06:59

Onethinnyatatime · 22/08/2025 06:51

Homeophaty = CON.
Depending on the sickness there are some alternatives that could help like herbal, acupuncture, acupressure,etc. Please, get specific advice from a medical, qualified professional before trying anything new.
I am sorry that your child is sick and wishing a full, quick recovery.

This. Do not confuse homeopathy with alternative medicines, many of which work well when combined with modern medical approaches. Make sure you use someone fully qualified, eg NIMH

There are also some fasting techniques which are helpful in adults - I don’t know how they would work with younger people though.

Having said all that, homeopathy by itself will have no effect, but the placebo effect can be quite strong, so maybe use it alongside.

AussieManque · 22/08/2025 07:00

Nightswimminginoldpants · 21/08/2025 23:18

Pans/pandas

Have you already tried treating with antibiotics?

If someone is being pushy with their treatment then I'd be wary. I doubt homeopathy can harm in itself, but if means not following treatments that actually work then yes it's dangerous. You could use it as supplementary to conventional treatments.

And please take care as COVID is rising to keep your child safe from infection which could worsen symptoms. Talk to their school to ensure they are prioritizing ventilation in classrooms and running air purifiers. www.cleanairforkids.co.uk is a great resource to try and make schools less of a cesspit of airborne infection.

Clean Air for Kids

Bringing Clean Air to the Kids of Bristol and Beyond. We wouldn’t let our children drink dirty water, why are we letting them breathe dirty air?

https://www.cleanairforkids.co.uk/

Puttingchildrenfirst · 22/08/2025 07:01

We dealt with suspected PANS after a severe infection in my DD. We had a lot of involvement from the NHS because she was very physically unwell alongside the PANS issues, we found very few Dr's who would take any interest in it at all.

The PANS/PANDAS UK facebook group is very helpful. We noticed big changes by switching to an anti-inflammatory diet, using ibuprofen for pain relief rather than paracetamol.

We then hand lengthy IV antibiotics which relieved the psychiatric symptoms - however these were not prescribed for the PANS but for the physical illness and involvement from a pediatric psychiatrist through our children's hospital who was amazed at the pre/post antibiotics difference.

PANS/PANDAS is a very overlooked area and I know we wouldnt have had the NHS support we did have if it wasn't for the physical illness side.

WhelanGrand · 22/08/2025 07:01

Op I’m so sorry your child is unwell and I hope she gets better as soon as possible.
I’m also relieved the majority of posters agree that homeopathy is mumbo jumbo because it is. Along with astrology. Yes that’s right, astrology. The amount of otherwise educated people who swear by this stuff is alarming.

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