Hello 2017

OK I must admit, I’ve been quite bad at this blogging idea. Kids can keep you extremely busy!

So here’s my first blog for 2017…. I’ll make this short and sweet.

SCHOOL!

At the beginning of every year, most families are preparing to send their kids off to school…playschool, preschool, primary school, high school…when does it end!?

With that, comes the mingling of many, many, mannnyyy germs that your precious ones will encounter. We need to prepare them, prep their tiny developing immune systems in order for them to ward off all these infections.

The bare essentials :

  1. ECHINACEA : Immune booster of note, especially the practitioner range that is safe for the whole family. Take every day as a preventative and double up during acute infections.
  2. OLIVE LEAF : The same as above with the added power of being anti-parasitic, so if you’re suspecting a worm infestation this would be your go-to tincture!

Now that that’s out of the way, let’s talk brain power! Especially during exam time but also a good all year rounder type of herb is BACOPA . A good tincture to assist with poor memory, anxiety and lack of concentration. Bacopa is also noted for its usage in ADHD (clinically proven trials!). So if you feel that your child needs the extra help, please give this herb a try!

Wishing you all the best of health for this year! (I think my next article should be about how to deal with the stress of being a parent!)

Dr Fatima Hansa

Pink Ribbons : Not Just for October

Breast Cancer Awareness month
A month dedicated to raise awareness for breast cancer, it’s treatment and the need for a permanent cure. Raised awareness has led to early detection at a more treatable stage. Let us remember and acknowledge that cancer awareness is not confined to one month . Show your support by buying a pink ribbon to wear all year round.

Mental Health Awareness month
There is a strong need to educate the public about mental health as well as to reduce the stigma involved with those suffering from a condition such as Anxiety, Depression, Substance abuse, stress etc. Many of these conditions have a direct impact on one’s quality of life. Attaining the correct treatment will also improve productivity at the workplace or school with a decrease in absenteeism. Homeopathy is an excellent form of Intergrative Medicine with a gentle, holistic approach with no side effects.october

ADHD Awareness month
Have a look at my first blog post for more information.

Wishing you the best of health

Dr Fatima Hansa

The Hyperactive Epidemic

The diagnosis and treatment of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) with prescription medication is staggering. Over the past decade an alarming number of parents have been faced with the daunting decision of how to address this growing dilemma.
ADHD is a condition that effects a child’s behaviour or learning (development). These children have three main behavioural problems, inattention, impulsively and over-activity.

As an individual inflicted with ADHD or parent of an ADHD child, you may consider using natural herbal remedies before turning to prescription medication

Unlike conventional medicine, homeopathy seeks to treat each child as an individual. A thorough case history is fundamental in prescribing the correct remedy. Homeopathy offers a safe gentle healing, that may be combined with other therapies or treatments. ADHD does not present with the same set of symptoms and reactions in everyone with the disorder. This is one reason why homeopathic treatments are sometimes more effective than the one-size-fits-all approach of conventional medicine.

Nutrition also plays a fundamental role in assisting a hyperactive child. Though there are several types of potent ADHD prescription medications available, many parents prefer using the natural treatment options which includes vitamins and minerals. Try to eliminate processed foods, preservatives, fizzy drinks and excessive amounts of sugar.
Supplements to include in your child’s diet would be zinc, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids.

So, for those who are dealing with ADHD and for those parents trying to optimize the environment for your children with ADHD, keep in mind that even if medications are relatively safe, the chance that you can achieve optimal results is still better by creating a supportive environment, optimal rest and nutrition, and creating situations that lessen distractions.

Any changes to medication should always be supervised by a doctor.

Dr. Fatima Hansa

Musgrave Medical Centre, M.Tech: Homeopathy (DUT),Physiology lecturer,DUT, 2015