Are you sending your child off to college this fall? Starting to worry about their health? Don’t fret! Here are 15 homeopathic remedies that will come in very handy for various health concerns that might arise. A collection of these remedies can serve as a compact yet comprehensive health kit for your freshman.

To better understand how to use these remedies, I suggest reading about them in a materia medica and having at least one therapeutic book on hand. I’ve listed my favorite books here.

The Remedies

1. Nux vomica

This remedy is fabulous for anything related to overdoing it—not enough sleep, too much alcohol, too much junk food. The symptoms could include a stomachache, a headache, or even a cold. It is also a great remedy for constipation. I wrote more about Nux vomica here.

2. Ignatia

This is a sweeping general remedy for anxiety, sadness, and grief. It can help with homesickness, missing friends, breakups, or even rejection from a sorority or fraternity. Look for symptoms like crying, sighing, or even hysteria.

3. Arsenicum album

Your go-to remedy for a stomach bug, regardless of the cause—bad food, viruses, or toxins. It can also help alleviate itching from rashes or allergies.

4. Veratrum album

A must-have for severe gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and vomiting, often accompanied by chills or fever. Keep this as a backup if Arsenicum doesn’t work.

5. Ipecacuanha (Ipecac)

This remedy is effective for relentless vomiting that doesn’t relieve nausea. It also works well for persistent, hacking coughs.

6. Kali phosphoricum

Ideal for brain fatigue, this remedy helps calm the nervous system and supports restful sleep.

7. Hepar sulphuris calcareum

Useful for infections, coughs, sore throats, and skin issues, this remedy is a powerful support for acute illnesses.

8. Eupatorium perfoliatum

This is my go-to remedy for flu and COVID-like symptoms, especially when there is body ache, chills, and fever. Read more about Eupatorium here.

9. Belladonna

Great for high fevers (102°F and higher), headaches, and pain. Symptoms often include redness, heat, and throbbing. This remedy is also part of the Banerji Protocol™ for high fevers and meningitis (see below).

10. Hypericum

A remedy for nerve pain, invaluable for pain after dental work, neck injuries, or other musculoskeletal injuries.

11. Arnica montana

Pairs nicely with Hypericum for soft tissue injuries, such as bumps and bruises. Arnica is also part of the Banerji Protocol™ for high fevers and meningitis (see below).

12. Gelsemium

This is a top remedy for anticipatory anxiety, such as when your child worries about upcoming events. It’s especially helpful if trembling accompanies the anxiety.

13. Pulsatilla

A versatile remedy for young women, it can help regulate menstrual cycles. It’s also useful for colds with yellow mucus.

14. Cuprum metallicum

A great remedy for spasms and cramps, it is also part of the Banerji Protocol™ for high fevers and meningitis (see below).

15. Staphysagria

This remedy is well-known for addressing urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly when someone is newly sexually active or has a new partner.

Choosing the Right Potency

When selecting potencies for these remedies, it’s important to consider your level of familiarity with homeopathy:

• 30C: This is the most commonly recommended potency for beginners and is safe for most acute conditions. It provides gentle yet effective relief and is easy to manage for those less familiar with homeopathy.
• 200C or higher: These potencies are suitable for individuals with some experience or training in using homeopathic remedies. They can address more intense symptoms but should be used with greater care and understanding.

If you’re uncertain, starting with 30C is a good choice. You can always consult a homeopath for more guidance.

The Banerji Protocol™ - Meningitis

Developed by generations of homeopaths in India, the Banerji Protocols provide practical and effective solutions for acute and chronic conditions. Below is their protocol for meningitis which can also be used for high fevers over 102 degrees:

Every hour, alternate Belladonna 3C [or 30C] with a mixture of Arnica 3C and Cuprum metallicum 6C

From The Banerji Protocols book: "The Arnica 3C + Cuprum met 6C and Belladonna will definitely stop the rise of temperature, and also prevent fits and convulsions. The temperature will come down slowly."

Final Thoughts

Sending your child to college is a major milestone, and having these remedies on hand can provide peace of mind for both you and your student. Equip them with the knowledge to use these remedies effectively, and encourage them to consult a materia medica or therapeutic book for guidance.