Arnica is a support group for parents, led by parents. (Please read the Member's Comments page.) We believe in a holistic approach to health and recognize a grass roots need for debate and practise, especially in this current climate where nutritional supplements, independent midwives and homeopathy are under threat.

A short term aim is to encourage and link up similar groups around the UK so that open discussion can take place about the vaccination issues and natural health alternatives. We feel that boosting immunity naturally is key and that sharing information and experiences supports our choices.

We are a non profit making group and do not advocate one way to health, but we prefer to use alternatives to allopathic medicine where possible for general health. For example, using nutrition and herbs in place of cold medicines, trying cuddles and homeopathy before calpol and antibiotics and supporting natural immunity in place of vaccines. In the case of chronic or acute conditions we would always consider medical advice and consider a combination with natural approaches.

We want to reduce the fear often felt by parents with their young children on health issues, whether that is to learn how to look after children when they have a fever or to suggest ways to reduce the adverse reactions from vaccines. Parents are supported in making their own informed decisions and respect is shown to all parents, regardless of their vaccine choices. For example, some parents within Arnica have vaccinated or part-vaccinated their children. 

Ultimately, we believe that the non-vaccinated child is potentially healthier than the vaccinated child. And that the parents of non-vaccinated children develop a resourceful approach to illness and health which is highly beneficial to the whole family. Our long term aim is to combine health records from non-vaccinated children and compare them to vaccinated children. If you would like to be included in future research please contact us.

We often feel that the GP, the health visitor and The Department of Health are not always confident with natural health issues preferring a route of medicine and intervention. We would like to see more dialogue between patients and health care providers and more research into the health of people who rarely need a prescription.

We believe that natural health is a journey of empowerment where parents are encouraged to use their instincts about health issues and critically consider research and anecdotal evidence. We believe that all children can benefit from a healthy lifestyle: exercise, nutrition, emotional support, natural remedies like homeopathy, alternative therapies like osteopathy and reducing toxins in our homes and food.

Health disclaimer
Every care has been taken when writing this website to ensure the accuracy of the material provided. However the authors cannot accept responsibility for any damage or harm caused by any advice or information given in this website. The decision is yours. If you have any doubts about vaccinations, you should consult a medically qualified practitioner.