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In recent decades the use of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) has increased significantly, not only among adults but also in the pediatric population. Perceived efficacy of homeopathic or natural treatments, fear of drug adverse effects, dissatisfaction with conventional medicine, and the need for more personal attention are the main reasons given by parents who treat their children with homeopathy.In the present paper the use of natural and homeopathic remedies for the treatment of children ailments are considered. In particular we focus on minor disorders of early childhood with a major impact on the well-being of the whole family, namely infant colic, teething, upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and tonsillopharyngitis. The results of recent studies on homeopathic products for the treatment of these disorders are be presented and discussed.

Background and aims The use of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) in paediatrics is high, although a variability of usage frequency between countries is reported, depending on data collection methods and type of CAM. The aim of this survey was to look into physicians’ approaches towards paediatric use of natural medicines, by a consistent study approach in a multi-country survey. Methods On-line survey involving 582 general paediatricians and general practioners treating paediatric patients in 6 countries. The study was sponsored by DHU-Arzneimittel GmbH and Co. KG. Results 99% of respondents recommended natural medicines (Phytotherapy or vitamins/minerals/supplements, VSM) in the previous year. Natural medicines were used as a complement to conventional treatment in most of patients. The most frequently treated conditions were: upper respiratory tract infections (51%), allergies (22%), acute abdominal problems (22%), recurrent infections (22%), earache (17%) and infant colic (15%). Here we give summarised data about the trends in natural remedies prescriptions by paediatricians. In the case of a 2 month old infant with recurrent colic 80% of physicians advised dietary changes. Conventional drugs were as frequently recommended as phytotherapy or homeopathy. The therapy of choice was probiotics. For a 2 year old child with teething problems, homeopathy was advised by 30% of physicians, while only 25% recommended conventional drugs. For a 5 year old child with recurrent upper respiratory tract infections the most frequent recommendations were conventional drugs, dietary advice and vitamins. Personal use of natural medicines corresponded to physicians´ predisposition to recommend natural treatments for their paediatric patients. Nearly half of the physicians were extremely interested in phytotherapy for paediatric conditions. Conclusions This survey confirms that physicians have a high interest in using natural medicines in paediatrics. Natural medicines were most often prescribed alongside conventional drugs. There is evidence of a variable level of knowledge about natural medicine options. There were significant country differences showing a cultural influence on physicians’ decisions.

In order to better understand the global approach and country differences in physicians’ usage, knowledge, and attitudes towards natural remedies and homeopathy in pediatric practice, an online survey involving 582 general pediatricians and general practitioners treating pediatric diseases was conducted in 6 countries. Overall, 17% of the pediatric prescriptions refer to phytotherapy and 15% refer to homeopathic preparations. Natural remedies and homeopathic preparations are more frequently used in upper respiratory tract infections, infant colic, sleep disturbances, and recurrent infections. In the majority of cases, they are used together with chemical drugs. Both treatment options are typically used if parents are concerned about side effects of conventional drugs or prefer natural remedies for themselves. Physicians express high interest in natural remedies and homeopathy; however, their knowledge is variable. Lack of proven efficacy, knowledge on mechanism of action, and information on indications are main factors that limit their usage.