Beat the bug

Since we seem to be in the midst of a tummy bug epidemic I feel it would be good to show what remedies are helpful if you or anyone in the household are unlucky enough to encounter it.  We currently have one down in our house and I am desperately hoping the rest of the household escapes unscathed!  

Children in particular are more susceptible to bugs as they are in close quarters with each other in schools and other social activities. It is important to reinforce hand washing with your child as this will help to reduce the spread of any viruses.
It can start in different ways with each person however the most common symptoms to look out for are:

• Headache
• Cramps
• Nausea
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea

Also be on the look out for dehydration. This can happen after prolonged or excessing vomiting or diarrhoea. Take small sips of water and avoid foods such as dairy, fatty foods, spicy foods which may upset the system further.
These remedies should relieve symptoms and reduce the duration of the illness.
In addition to these remedies you could also give an activated charcoal capsule (if possible).  Activated charcoal is amazing for mopping up bugs and germs and can work with your remedies to eliminate these from the body. 

Arsenicum

• Sips of warm drinks may relieve griping pains in stomach. 
• Stools will be watery, brown, yellow, or slimy with a foul smell. 
• The child will be weak, restless and anxious. 
• The thought or smell of food will increase the nausea.

Phosphorous

• Thirsty for cold drinks, which will be vomited 10-20 minutes later as they warm up in the stomach.

Ipecac

• Extreme nausea, which is only temporarily relieved by vomiting, if at all.
• There may be griping pains in the stomach. 
• Person will be thirst-less and the tongue will appear clean.

Veratrum Alb

• Severe vomiting and diarrhoea. 
• The child will be weak with cold sweats. 
• Strong cramping pains in the abdomen. 
• Very thirsty for cold drinks, which will be vomited soon after. 
  

China

• One of the main remedies for dehydration

Remember to always seek medical advice if symptoms persist or if the ill person appears to be dehydrated.

Get in touch if you would like to stock up your remedies to keep your family healthy this winter.