We are big fans of homeopathy – at least in its most basic forms (I’m not super-knowledgeable, so we haven’t gotten into any “advanced” homeopathy yet) – and Boiron is one of our favorite homeopathic producers.

Arnica gel is probably our very favorite.  My hubby thinks it’s near-miraculous.  Applied externally (only!), it helps bruises heal.  And what household with children doesn’t have plenty of bumps and bruises?!  Michael (hubby) recently rediscovered it, though, due to one of his own injuries, and was quite impressed.  Pay attention to what you’re getting, though.  My mom recently (unintentionally) purchased an arnica gel or cream that she later discovered was full of parabens and other chemicals we usually try to avoid.  Boiron’s Arnicare gel does not contain these yuckies.

In recent years, you may have heard of “oscillo.”  Oscillococcinum is a homeopathic preparation typically used for treating influenza. It’s what we all took a few years ago when we had (what we believe was) “swine flu.”  (That and our homemade decongestant.)

A Boiron product that’s new to me, though, is Camilia.  Camilia is formulated for teething relief.  Livia is largely past teething, so I’ve not been able to try this yet, myself (give me a year – then I’ll tell you how it works for the new baby!), but I have used homeopathy in the past for teething.  One significant benefit is that it doesn’t contain the benzocaine that typical teething gels use as a numbing agent.

We all grew up with benzocaine-based teething gels, but evidence suggests they may not be safe.  In rare instances, benzocaine – particularly in babies – can lead to “methemoglobinemia,”  or reduced oxygen in the bloodstream.  This can even result in death.  Clearly, this is not the typical result of teething gel use, but is it really worth the risk, for something as insignificant in the long run as teething pain?  Homeopathy is a much safer alternative!

If you use homeopathics, I’d love to know what your favorite applications are!

Disclosure: Boiron provided me with Arnicare gel and Camilia to facilitate this review.  They are also providing the same for giveaway and donation through the Baby Shower for Jesus.  As always, all opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

Also please note that I am not a medical professional and nothing in this post has been approved by the FDA.  Nothing here is intended to diagnose or treat disease or to substitute for medical care.  Just use common sense. 😉