Belladonna as a Remedy for Children

Jul 8, 2024

Lecture on Belladonna as a Remedy for Children

Overview

  • Belladonna is a commonly prescribed remedy for children.
  • Fever is a critical symptom often addressed with belladonna.
  • Despite varying causes, fevers in children usually have a belladonna-like presentation.

Attributes of Belladonna-related Fever

  • Fever characteristics: Red, hot, throbbing, and burning.
    • Similar to scarlet fever.
    • Particularly affects the head and eyes.
    • Glassy eyes, dilated pupils, throbbing carotid arteries.
  • Temperature distribution:
    • Head: Extremely hot, burning sensation that can be felt by touch.
    • Body: Chills in hands and feet, sometimes icy cold while the head is burning.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Heat: The feverish head is incredibly hot, affecting surroundings.
  • Behavioral Symptoms:
    • Hallucinations and monstrous imaginations even with wide-open eyes.
    • The child may not recognize parents; perceives terrifying images (monsters, wild animals, etc.).
    • Could lead to febrile convulsions if fever persists too long.

Management of Fever

  • Traditional actions: Cooling the child through sponging around the neck and wrists.
  • Belladonna effect:
    • Eases hallucinations and terrors, reducing wild symptoms.
    • Gradual reduction of pupil dilation and fever.
    • Redistribution of temperature (warming of hands and feet) before temperature decreases.

Practical Usage

  • Dosing Frequency: Often requires multiple doses in a short period, possibly every five minutes, due to intensity.
  • First-Aid Kits: Essential to include belladonna, especially in nurseries.
  • Common pairings: Often paired with Arnica in children's first-aid kits.