NATURAL REMEDIES To help CHILDREN SLEEP

Sleep challenges in babies and children are common, but when they continue for a great length of time, they can take a toll on the whole family. I often get asked for advice or support for children’s sleep, and whilst there are homeopathic remedies that are traditionally used to support sleeplessness, it’s important to remember that sleep disruptions are often a combination of many factors so a consult is always recommended for any ongoing sleep issues. An individualised consult gives us an opportunity to consider all of the factors that may be contributing to sleep disruptions, and allows time to look for individualised changes or remedies to support both the baby and mother. Learn more about different types of consults here

If your child has a healthy, established sleep routine, and you are just looking for a remedy to support yourself or your child during occasional sleep disturbances, the following remedies can be helpful: Clients can purchase all of these remedies can be purchased in our online store:

Homeopathic remedies to support sleep

1. Chamomilla 30C or 200C
   For the baby or child who is teething, and may be inconsolable, or wake screaming due to the teething.

2. Coffea Cruda 30c
   For overstimulated children who cannot “switch off” even when tired.

3. Kali Phosphoricum 6x
   Useful when children are overtired, overstimulated, or irritable from exhaustion. Particularly helpful after travel, illness, or changes in routine.

4. Pulsatilla 30c

   For the child who is extra clingy, whiny, teary and be needing to be held - although it’s important to consider what the cause is if this behaviour is unusual for your child.

5. Nux Vomica 30c

   Can be helpful for the child who is overstimulated, has a digestive upset, or is uncomfortable due to overindulgence or exposure to unusual foods through breastmilk.

6. Ignatia 200c

   For the child who’s sleep issues began after grief, separation (e.g. weaning, sleep training), or emotional tension in the home.

7. Mag Phos 6x

   Can be helpful for colicky babies who’s sleep is disturbed by wind, spasmodic abdominal pain or muscular tension. They may curl up and seem better for warmth and pressure (e.g. held against your chest, or with a warm compress).

Other Ways TO SUpport A Healthy Night’s Sleep

Before trying any of the remedies mentioned above, it is important to consider the child’s sleeping environment. Consider the following points:

Light levels: Some children sleep best in a dark room with block out blinds as they are sensitive to light. Others cannot fall asleep in a dark room due to fears, concerns in the dark. Experiment with block out blinds or night lights to see if your child has a preference.

Bedtime routine: In today’s busy world, we sometimes forget that children can need a certain amount of time to wind down of an evening. A slow, calm bedtime routine that is the same every evening can make a huge difference, allowing the child to recognise the signals that it is time to wind down for sleep. Consider a calm bath, a bedtime story, or a a quiet song to help your child settle in for the night. Keep lighting warm and low in the house or the room at these times.

Please remember that this post is designed as educational advice only and should not replace consultation with your medical professional.