Examining Natural and Herbal Remedies for Autistic Children

Autism is an extremely complex developmental disorder that affects a child's ability to communicate, socialize and respond appropriately to normal stimuli. Though mainstream medicine and the prescription medications it uses can make a world of difference to an autistic child's quality of life, there are other things parents can do, too. Lifestyle changes, herbal remedies and other natural therapies can be very helpful to some children suffering from this still-misunderstood disorder.

What Causes Autism?

Ultimately, autism is simply a result of abnormal brain chemistry. But the cause of this abnormal chemistry is largely unknown. Genetics seems to be the key risk factor and gender is also a major factor. Autism is four times more common in boys than girls and around half of all boys with autism have at least one parent with the disorder.

Autism is also more common among children who have certain genetic conditions and those who also suffer from diseases like tuberculosis and epilepsy. There is also some evidence that certain viral infections during pregnancy, especially rubella, increase the risk of autism in some children.

Many parents link autism to their child's vaccinations but a number of major studies have failed to find any link between vaccines and autism. And contrary to "reports" reprinted on various online forums, un-vaccinated children do not seem to have lower rates of autism than their vaccinated peers.

Alternative, Non-Medical Treatments For Autism

Animal therapy involving dolphins, dogs or horses is an alternative approach to autism that's familiar to most of us. Though there isn't a lot of scientific support for animal therapy, some parents find that enrolling their autistic children in a specially-designed program like this helps to build self-confidence, increases learning retention and helps children better integrate sensory stimulation long after the therapy class is finished.

Another alternative autism therapy that's growing in popularity involves artistic expression. Art and music allow autistic children a chance to express themselves in safe, creative ways. Some parents find that these types of programs reduce anxiety and help the child to better express himself or herself.

Finally, massage therapy may be an autism therapy to consider, as well. Two separate studies, looking at two different forms of massage, found that just a few weeks of carefully orchestrated massage sessions helped children better communicate with their families.

Herbal Remedies & Autism

The same herbs used to help other people better cope with issues like irritability, concentration, anxiety and sleep problems may also be helpful for children with autism. But before adding herbal remedies to your autistic child's daily regimen of medications, it's extremely important to discuss this issue with your child's primary care provider. Generally, herbal remedies have not been studied for autism and may cause unexpected side effects. Equally important is the issue of herb/drug interactions. All herbs have the potential to interact with each other or the prescription drugs your child may already be taking. Minimize your child's risk of complications by disclosing any and all herb use with your child's doctor and working directly with a competent herbalist.

REFFERENCES:

Cullen, L., et al (2002). Kiss, cuddle, squeeze: the experiences and meaning of touch among parents of children with autism attending a touch therapy programme.

Gillberg, C., et al (2005). Asperger syndrome: familiar and pre- and perinatal factors.

Silva, L., et al (2005). A medical qigong methodology for early intervention in autism spectrum disorder: a case series.