Spring often heralds the appearance of itchy red spots, temperature and general grumbles, aka chicken pox. The flu-like symptoms appear first, followed by the spots a few days later. Easing the symptoms with paracetamol or ibuprofen (or a combination of the two) is the standard advice – never use aspirin in chicken pox, it can lead to complications. Some doctors recommend anti-histamine such as piriton.  To ease the itching I recommend two types of baths, whichever is more effective.  Put a handful of sodium bicarbonate or a handful of organic porridge oats in the bath.

To stop the oats going everywhere tie them in a piece of muslin, or cut off the foot from an old pair of tights and put them in that! Sodium bicarbonate (or bicarbonate of soda) is also good for cystitis and indigestion.

The homeopathic remedy that is most effective for the itch is Rhus Tox 6c. Start it as soon as the spots appear and continue twice daily for five days or stop earlier if the itching goes. If your main concern is the ‘flu-like’ symptoms, Apis, Bryonia, Pulsatilla or Merc-Sol may be tried, depending on your child’s symptoms.

To help the skin recover, eat plenty of Vitamin C and beta-carotene rich food, which provides natural vitamin A. It’s found in dark green vegetables and orange fruit and vegetables, like carrots, mangos and apricots. Once scabs have healed Vitamin E oil can be applied.

Normally you only get chickenpox once and the good news is if you’ve had it as a child you will usually have a lifelong immunity, good news for girls as chicken pox during pregnancy can cause complications. Of course if you are pregnant and have been exposed to the virus, always check with your doctor.

Sof McVeigh is a west London homeopath specialising in women & children.

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