Recently, I have been truly honored to provide homeopathic treatment to young individuals with autism. The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has risen dramatically in recent years, now affecting approximately 1 in 32 people. This increase highlights the growing recognition of autism as a complex, lifelong developmental condition characterized by a wide range of challenges, including difficulties with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors (OCD).
Autism manifests uniquely in each individual, making personalized approaches to treatment essential. Understanding the multifaceted nature of autism and providing effective support—such as homeopathy—can significantly enhance the quality of life for those on the spectrum and their families.
In this blog I would like to share the stories of two cases:
9 YEAR OLD GIRL DIAGNOSED WITH AUTISM/PANDAS
She appears to be suffering from adverse reactions to childhood vaccinations. My heart goes out to her parents as they manage the complexities of her condition.
This intelligent girl communicates effectively but faces significant challenges due to obsessive- compulsive behaviors. She often describes feeling 'haunted' by her thoughts, leading to intense anxieties regarding food. For instance, she cannot touch food with her hands, and her mother must taste everything before she dares to eat. Her fear of being poisoned—stemming from her experiences with vaccinations—heightens her distress.
Socially, she feels excluded by her peers at school, which only adds to her struggles. At night, she sleeps in her parents' bed, clinging to her mother for comfort. Simple tasks, such as getting dressed, can take up to three hours due to her fear of her clothes. Even going out can become a lengthy ordeal, riddled with irrational fears.
This situation is incredibly challenging for both the child and her parents, who are doing their utmost to support her through these difficult times. It’s a powerful reminder of how much resilience and understanding are needed in such circumstances.
In my session with the young girl, it became clear that she was desperately trying to exert control over her surroundings, trapped in her thoughts filled with various fears and phobias. Her description of feeling 'haunted' resonated with me, as it reminded me of a previous case involving a person who felt similarly due to a parasitic infection—an experience akin to being haunted.
To explore potential remedies, I turned to the Apiales family, known for its vermifugal plants. While we have limited knowledge about many members of this family—aside from a few such as Conium—Sankaran and Scholten have illuminated the underlying themes associated with these plants. They often reflect a desire for control and an anxiety about unforeseen circumstances, which can be rooted in experiences of a harsh or unloving family environment (though this was not the case here). This plant family appears to offer insights into healing from trauma, including adverse effects from vaccinations.
After careful consideration, I chose SUMBUL, or Ferula moschata, traditionally associated with epilepsy cases. This selection serves as a reminder not to confine remedies solely based on keynotes. Interestingly, musk root, derived from this plant, is used in perfumes—a relevant detail, since this girl also has a sensitivity to certain smells.
I’m pleased to report that the young girl has made significant progress. She can now eat with her hands, dress herself more independently, and has started leaving the house to attend school, despite still experiencing some stress while there. Notably, she has become less reliant on her mother for comfort, and many of her fears have diminished, contributing to an overall sense of calm.
While there is still work to be done, I feel a great sense of relief for her parents, who are delighted (not to say amazed!) with the positive changes they’ve witnessed in their daughter.
23 YEAR OLD MAN (TRANSITIONING FROM FEMALE TO MALE)
Background:
This 23-year-old transgender male has been on weekly testosterone injections and has a history of homeopathic treatment over the past 15 years, experiencing positive results with remedies like Med, Stramonium, and Zincum metallicum. Recently, he began taking Escitalopram for escalating anxiety and depression.
Symptoms and Challenges:
He has long struggled with anxiety that restricts daily activities, particularly when alone, preferring routines and familiar environments. When he started treatment he was unable to do simple things like go to the shops alone.
He experiences anticipatory anxiety about various scenarios, including social situations and driving. Despite growing up in a supportive family, he has faced identity exploration pressures, leading to significant lifestyle changes since starting testosterone at age 16-17.
He has a deep affection for animals, particularly rabbits, and owns several pets. His interests include video games with themes like farming and zombies, reflecting his methodical and linear thinking. He also shows OCD tendencies, such as needing particular eating utensils and compulsively counting objects when anxious.
Treatment Journey:
Initially treated with BARYTA CARBONICUM 1M, he reported feeling “smoother” and less anxious after four weeks. He began to engage in social activities, such as going on a date and driving alone. However, thoughts of embarrassment and pressure to perform remained.
After receiving BARYTA CARB 10M, he applied for a job and reported calmer mindsets and fewer controlling thoughts. His mother's insights revealed his slower developmental pace but rapid skill acquisition once comfortable.
Subsequent treatments involved SALVINIA AURICULATA (a fern), which led to increased confidence, independence in social situations, and a lighter outlook on life. His anxieties about work diminished, and he began proactively interacting with customers.
Recent Progress:
Following the last remedy, HEMIONITIS PALMATA (a fern) 1M, he continued to develop confidence, demonstrated by attending social events and chatting with coworkers. During a recent work Christmas party, he felt comfortable interacting, an impressive shift from his previous discomfort. All of this would have been impossible just a few months earlier!
The fern family is a recent addition to the homeopathic materia medica and is showing a remarkable affinity in the treatment of autism.
Though he still experiences internal dialogues, which remain a focus for treatment, his journey reflects significant progress in managing anxiety and embracing social opportunities, suggesting a promising future ahead. His family have been astounded by his development in a short space of time.
If you or a loved one are living with autism or PANDAS and wish to explore the benefits of homeopathy, consider booking a FREE, no-obligation online session with Jonathan Stallick RSHom. During this session, you’ll have the opportunity to get all your questions answered and discover how homeopathy may be your path to improved wellness.
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