Pack the pillows, pack the shoes, and don’t forget a few homeopathic essentials for your college student, too. Going away to school is a life-changing event for any teen. The following homeopathic medicines recommended by Heidi Weinhold, ND, can help yours manage the emotional and physical stress of transitioning to campus life. For more tips and information, visit DoctorHeidi.net.

Leaving home for the first time can bring about intense sadness during those first few weeks. When feeling homesick, overwhelmed, or missing family and friends, I recommend taking Ignatia amara 30C. Made from the St. Ignatius bean, this remedy helps to relieve heartache and process grief. 

New professors and large classes are a significant source of anxiety. However, the homeopathic medicine Gelsemium sempervirens 30C can help ease nervousness before a presentation or an exam. Since the 1800s, Gelsemium has been used as a stress reducer when it was given to Civil War soldiers for courage.

With all the reading and computer use that college life demands, eyestrain is a common problem. Ruta graveolens 30C relieves eyestrain, as well as the resulting headaches. This medicine is prepared from the herb-of-grace plant that contains flavonoids called rutin, which are thought to strengthen blood vessels. Homeopathic Ruta can also help with pain and stiffness in the wrists, hands, low back, and legs from repetitive motion, so it’s good for students to keep at their desks.

It’s not uncommon for college-goers to overindulge in food and alcohol for the first time leaving home. Nux Vomica 30C, popularly known as the “hangover remedy,” helps with  nausea, bloating, and sluggishness associated with excessive eating and drinking. One dose of five pellets at the onset of a hangover will bring welcome relief. Repeat if necessary up to three times in a day until symptoms subside.

These homeopathic medicines are easy to take and perfect to carry in a purse, pocket, or backpack. And there are no interactions between other medications, herbs, or supplements for students or parents to worry about.

When using homeopathic medicines for situational stress, take five pellets at the onset of symptoms, or three times a day (morning, noon, and night) as needed until symptoms resolve. These should not be taken daily. If symptoms persist, it may warrant seeking the advice of a homeopathic practitioner who can customize a homeopathic prescription for your teen.

About Dr. Weinhold: Heidi Weinhold, ND, is a naturopathic doctor specializing in homeopathy, nutritional supplements, and customized botanicals with a private practice in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, Pa. She holds a four-year doctoral degree from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Tempe, Ariz., along with a Doctor of Humane Letters from her alma mater. Her studies included drug-herb interactions, homeopathic intakes, dialoguing with physicians, and incorporating natural modalities.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Boiron.