Morning sickness affects up to 80% of pregnant women (1). As many mothers know all too well, morning sickness symptoms can occur at any time of day, despite what the name suggests.
Homeopathy offers a potential support for mothers facing occasional nausea during pregnancy. Homeopathy is a holistic system of medicine based on the principle of “like cures like,” where highly diluted natural substances are used to stimulate the body’s innate ability to heal.
This article shares an overview of how homeopathy works and lists some of the homeopathic remedies that can be useful for morning sickness as well as some important considerations for expecting mothers dealing with nausea during pregnancy.
What Is Homeopathy?
Homeopathy originated in Germany in the late 18th century and was a widely practiced medical model throughout Europe and the United States until the early 20th century when what is now known as conventional or allopathic medicine began to dominate the healthcare landscape (2).
Homeopathy operates on the principle that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself. The remedies used in homeopathy are derived from natural substances and are highly diluted to avoid toxicity while still retaining their therapeutic effects. Homeopathy is based on the principle of “like cures like,” where substances that cause symptoms in a healthy person can, in small doses, treat similar symptoms in someone who is ill (2).
Homeopathic remedies are prepared through a process of serial dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking), making them highly diluted yet potent in their effects. These remedies are chosen based on the specific symptoms experienced by the individual, rather than being chosen based on the diagnosis.
Choosing Homeopathic Remedies Based on Symptoms
One of the unique aspects of homeopathy is that remedies are selected not only based on physical symptoms but also on emotional and mental states. For example, if a woman is experiencing nausea along with feelings of irritability, sadness, or emotional detachment, a remedy like Sepia may be recommended because it aligns with both the physical and emotional profile of the individual. Conversely, if a woman feels extremely sensitive to noise and needs a quiet environment to feel relief, Asarum might be more appropriate. This holistic approach aims to address the whole person, rather than just the isolated symptoms. It does also mean that sometimes, a few remedies may need to be trialed before one is found that works best.
To learn more about some of my favorite homeopathic remedies, read this article: How To Create A Family Homeopathy Kit.
Understanding Homeopathic Potencies
In homeopathy, the dosage and potency of a remedy are determined by the degree of dilution and the individual’s specific symptoms. Homeopathic remedies are typically available in various potencies, such as 6X, 30C, or 200C, with higher numbers indicating a greater degree of dilution (3). The appropriate potency and frequency of dosage are selected based on the severity of the symptoms and the overall constitution of the individual. A qualified homeopathic practitioner can help you choose the remedy and dosage that are best suited to you.
To learn more about potencies and choosing the right homeopathic remedy, read this article: How To Use Homeopathic Remedies – A Quick-Start Guide For Families.
Safety of Homeopathy During Pregnancy
Homeopathy is widely regarded as safe for use during pregnancy, making it an appealing option for women seeking natural relief from morning sickness (4). Due to the high dilution of homeopathic remedies, they are largely considered to be non-toxic and have minimal risk of side effects, even for sensitive individuals (2).
However, it is important for pregnant women to consult with a qualified healthcare provider or homeopathic practitioner before beginning any kind of treatment, homeopathic or otherwise.
Additionally, while homeopathy can be effective for managing mild to moderate symptoms of morning sickness, severe conditions like hyperemesis gravidarum require medical attention and should be treated with conventional medical care, with homeopathy serving as a complementary approach.
It is important to be aware of the link between morning sickness and nutrient deficiencies. Learn more: Nutrient Deficiencies Associated With Morning Sickness.
Homeopathic Remedies for Morning Sickness
Several homeopathic remedies are commonly used to address morning sickness. Below are some of the remedies that may be considered (5). It is common to try a few different remedies before finding the one that works best for you.
Lacticum Acidum
Lacticum Acidum is known for addressing “classic morning sickness.” This remedy is often chosen for women whose nausea is worse upon waking in the morning and opening their eyes. They may have excessive salivation and burning stomach pain but feel better after eating.
Tabacum
Tabacum can be useful for women who experience severe nausea with a sinking feeling in the pit of their stomach. They often look pale, feel cold, and need to lie still with their eyes closed to avoid vomiting.
Colchicum
Colchicum tends to work well for women who experience severe nausea triggered by the sight and smell of food, especially eggs or fish. The nausea is accompanied by a sore and bloated abdomen.
Ipecacuanha
Ipecacuanha is often chosen for women with intense, constant nausea that persists throughout the day, accompanied by retching, belching, and excessive salivation. Symptoms may worsen when lying down or moving.
Nux Vomica
Nux vomica can be beneficial for women with morning nausea that worsens after eating. They may feel irritable, impatient, and chilled, with a sensitive, crampy stomach.
Sepia
Sepia can be indicated for women with gnawing, intermittent nausea, and an empty feeling in the stomach. These women often feel irritable, sad, and detached from their family. Nausea is worse in the morning before eating, and odors, especially of food, can aggravate their symptoms.
Note that homeopathy alone is not likely to be enough when it comes to excessive feelings of sadness or irritability. To learn more about maternal depression, read this article: Identifying and Managing Postpartum Depression.
Pulsatilla
Pulsatilla is often recommended for women whose nausea worsens in the afternoon and evening, with little thirst and a preference for cool drinks. They may crave various foods but feel sick after eating them. Pulsatilla tends to work well for women who are often affectionate, weepy, and in need of reassurance, making this remedy particularly helpful for those who are emotionally sensitive during pregnancy.
Asarum
Asarum often works well for women who feel extremely ill with seemingly constant nausea and retching. They are highly sensitive to noise, which exacerbates their nausea. They may feel better when lying down and may find relief from cool drinks or food, although the thought of eating may be unbearable.
Kreosotum
Kreosotum tends to be recommended for expectant mothers who experience excessive salivation, leading to constant swallowing and nausea. Vomiting of undigested food several hours after eating is another key symptom.
Why Choose Homeopathy for Morning Sickness?
Homeopathy offers several benefits for managing morning sickness, making it an appealing option for expecting mothers seeking natural and gentle remedies:
- Safety: Homeopathic remedies are highly diluted, minimizing the risk of side effects and making them generally regarded as quite safe for use during pregnancy.
- Holistic Approach: Homeopathy considers the emotional and mental state of the individual, offering a comprehensive approach to treatment.
- Convenience: Homeopathic remedies are taken orally as small little pills that dissolve in the mouth. This makes them easy to keep handy in your purse for quick support when symptoms strike unexpectedly.
Considerations & Precautions for Homeopathy During Pregnancy
While homeopathy is generally considered safe, it is important for pregnant women to consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. A homeopathic practitioner can provide guidance on selecting the appropriate remedy and dosage, ensuring that the treatment aligns with the woman’s overall health and pregnancy needs.
It’s also important to note that homeopathy does not replace the need for a high-quality prenatal vitamin during pregnancy to support both maternal and fetal health. Ensuring adequate intake of key nutrients may also help mitigate some symptoms of morning sickness.
Some of the main risks of morning sickness and vomiting are dehydration and nutrient deficiencies. If you are unable to keep food or liquids down, it is important to seek medical care.
Severe cases of morning sickness, such as hyperemesis gravidarum, require medical attention and should not be solely managed with homeopathy. In such cases, homeopathic remedies may be used as a complementary approach alongside conventional medical treatment.
Outside of morning sickness, acid reflux is another common source of discomfort during pregnancy. Learn more here: Natural Treatment Of GERD During Pregnancy.
Are you looking for more natural alternatives that are suitable during pregnancy and lactation? You may find this article helpful: Herbs For Pain Relief In Pregnancy & Lactation.
Summary
Homeopathy is a holistic and gentle approach to occasional nausea during pregnancy. While homeopathy is generally regarded as being quite safe for use during pregnancy, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that the chosen remedies and dosages are appropriate. For women experiencing mild to moderate morning sickness, homeopathy can offer effective relief, while more severe cases should be managed with conventional medical care, though even in the case of hyperemesis gravidarum homeopathy can have a place in a wider treatment plan as a supportive complement.
References:
- Lee, N. M., & Saha, S. (2011). Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Gastroenterology clinics of North America, 40(2), 309–vii. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gtc.2011.03.009
- Mount Sinai Health System. (n.d.). Homeopathy Information. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/treatment/homeopathy
- Sagar S. M. (2007). Homeopathy: does a teaspoon of honey help the medicine go down?. Current oncology (Toronto, Ont.), 14(4), 126–127. https://doi.org/10.3747/co.2007.150
- Katz, T. (1995). The management of pregnancy and labour with homoeopathy. Complementary Therapies in Nursing & Midwifery, 1(6), 159–164. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1353-6117(05)80065-4
- PeaceHealth. (2024). Peacehealth.org. https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-2243000#hn-2243000-remedy-options
