Studies 99 percent of doctors recommend natural medicines for children

An international study involving 582 paediatricians concluded that nearly all participating physicians last year prescribed or recommended at least one Complementary Medicine (CAM) for children. 99% of doctors advised natural remedies and 76% recommended homeopathic medicines.

Doctors often prescribe natural medicine. Image: Kathrin39 - fotolia

This study demonstrates for the first time the widespread acceptance of complementary medicine and the factors that influence physician decision-making.

For example, the lower side effects compared to conventional medicines were a decisive factor in the decision-making process for physicians: homeopathic preparations were associated with a lower risk of side effects by 70% of the participating physicians, and 60% of the participants in natural medicines.

Common indications
The study showed that teething is a key indication for homeopathy: 37% of physicians reported frequent use. 53% of physicians were often in favor of natural medicines for upper respiratory infections, 45% for excessive crying in infancy, and 33% for sleep disorders.

Personal experiences are crucial
The doctors' own use of complementary and alternative medicines was an indication of the willingness to prescribe or recommend these remedies to their pediatric patients. In addition, parental values ​​affect doctors' recommendations. Eighty-one percent of pediatricians and family physicians who participated in the study said that they liked to talk to parents about complementary and alternative medicines, and that their parents' values ​​greatly influenced doctors. The study can be found here. (Pm)