Help is at hand for parents looking for an alternative to paracetamol for their children�s winter bugs, following research suggesting a link between the drug and asthma.

Homeopathic remedies are non-toxic and safe for use in babies and children (1) and research has shown that homeopathic remedies can be effective in children with respiratory tract infections (2), Otitis media (build up of fluid in the ear which can lead to infection) (3) and sinusitis (4).

Homeopathic remedies can be used at home in acute conditions, but recurrent coughs and infections should been seen by a qualified homeopath registered with the Society of Homeopaths (look out for the RSHom designation

Some parents are worried about giving their children paracetamol, which is the active ingredient of Calpol, following the publication of research in the Lancet in September, which found that babies given paracetamol were more likely to develop asthma, as were those in later childhood who were given it frequently. Use of the drug was also associated with a risk of eczema and rhino conjunctivitis (allergy-linked runny nose and watering eyes). (5)

And last year the Medicine and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) removed six cough medicines from sale following fears about possible overdose. (6) 

Remedies commonly used in childhood illnesses include:

Belladonna: indicated where the symptoms have come on suddenly and there is heat, throbbing and pain, irritability, and symptoms worse from jarring. Children can be obstinate and may bite or hit.

Gelsemium: the number one flu remedy, with symptoms slow to come on, where there is much heaviness and drooping, fatigue, clammy skin, flushes of hot and cold, dizziness and congestion.

Pulsatilla: has blocked painful sinuses, sticky mucus, feels better in the fresh air and has a changeable, clingy mood, tearful during a fever and wanting to be carried.

Bryonia: the symptoms are slow to come on, there is much dryness and pains are worse from even the slightest movement. Firm pressure on the affected area is helpful. They are irritable and want to be left alone. Children may reject what they just asked for.