This book review is reprinted with the permission of the Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians
P.O. Box 21488, Portland, OR 97212
FAX:(503) 795-7320
e-mail: hanp@igc.apc.org

RITALIN-FREE KIDS
by Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman, M.S.W., N.D. and Robert Ullman, N.D.
Available from: Picnic Point Press 13l Third Ave. North Edmonds, WA 98020 Phone (206) 233-1155 or Minimum Price Books
Reviewed by Durr Elmore

The diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are increasing astronomically. Over two million children in the U.S. are currently taking Ritalin, and at this rate eight million kids will be taking Ritalin by the year 2000. In some schools up to 30% of the children are on Ritalin!

Robert Ullman and Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman, a husband and wife team who practice and teach homeopathy in Edmonds, Washington, have written an outstanding book on the homeopathic treatment of ADD kids (and adults!). Designed for parents, Ritalin-Free Kids discusses the problem of ADD, assesses the pros and cons of conventional treatment (Ritalin, Dexedrine Cylert), and clearly presents homeopathy as a viable option for treating children with ADD.

With such an incredible rise in the frequency of diagnosis of ADD, we could almost say it is epidemic. The authors understand the dilemma of parents who must confront the problem first-hand. Many schools and doctors are suggesting that parents put their children on Ritalin. In the introduction to Ritalin-Free Kids, we learn that many conventional medical doctors are alarmed at the rise in Ritalin use (500% increase in the past five years).

The authors write: "BEFORE YOU FILL THAT PRESCRIPTION FOR STIMULANTS, READ THIS BOOK! Homeopathic medicine is a safe, effective, and natural treatment for ADD and an approach that may be entirely new to you and your family ... We began treating children with ADD nine years ago. We were astounded at how homeopathy transformed the lives of many of these children in a very positive way." They go on to cite numerous interesting cases they have effectively treated using homeopathy.

The early chapters in Ritalin-Free Kids offer an informative, well-documented discussion of ADD and conventional treatment, pros and cons. The authors' understanding of the problem, and their respect for the uniqueness of each child placed in the ADD category (gifted or hyperactive), begin to build a solid foundation. They offer clear descriptions of common ADD behavior patterns, from pre-schoolers, to school kids, through adolescence and even adults with an ADD diagnosis.

To parents of ADD kids, they offer sound advice. They also point out that the organization CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder), with 35O,OOO members is heavily funded and obviously influenced by the pharmaceutical companies. Ciba- Geigy, manufacturer of Ritalin, contributes 11% of the CHADD budget. The CHADD recommends medications to treat ADD, and does not inform members about any alternative therapies.

In this book, homeopathy is presented, explained, and discussed. The heading in chapter five, "Why Prescribe Speed for ADD?" suggests the idea of similarity or the law of similars. After the presentation of additional homeopathically cured ADD cases, we are led into a well-written introduction to homeopathy, including some history, the law of similars, minimum dose, potentization, research, and some of the remedies themselves.

The homeopathic approach to ADD is sensible: Understand the patient; treat the person, using the law of similars, with non- toxic doses of natural substances. The authors have carefully considered the many questions that a person new to homeopathy will have, and have addressed them throughout the book: What about using homeopathy along with conventional treatment? How long will my child need to be under homeopathic care (a minimum of 6- 12 months)?

Why choose homeopathy? It works. Many cases are presented where homeopathy dramatically changed the lives of ADD children. Many of these kids had formerly been on Ritalin, but either suffered from its side effects, or Ritalin simply didn't work. A single dose of a homeopathic remedy can last for months. There are no side effects. 'Homeopathy treats the whole person. Not only do learning and behavioral problems improve, so do most or all of the other physical, mental, and emotional complaints of the person ... Homeopathy will not make a child depressed or dull."

Theoretical principles are convincingly illustrated by accounts of real cases, and quotations from parents after homeopathic treatment of their children. The authors also offer practical behavioral and attitudinal suggestions that can help support the child's healing. Even adult ADD is addressed, with several cases successfully treated homeopathically included. Other relevant topics, such as delayed children, depression, aggression, fearful children, and sexual behavior are discussed. Again, important points are made with examples from cases.

The authors include brief descriptions of some of the homeopathic remedies presribed in their cases. This information is offered not as an invitation to parents to treat their own children, but to give an idea of how thoroughly and specifically the needs of an individual person are considered when choosing an appropriate remedy. Inquiring parents may find the remedy descriptions fascinating, and become more interested in trying homeopathy because of them.

This is a user-friendly book. It ends with a section on the Most Commonly Asked Questions about Homeopathic Treatment and is followed by Appendices including referral Sources, Glossary, Index, Bibliography, Recommended Books, and Internet Homeopathic Resources.

I highly recommend Ritalin-Free Kids. It is an excellent book, easy to read and understand. Like the authors' first book, The Patient's Guide to Homeopathic Medicine it is a valuable guide and aid in helping the public understand homeopathy and realize what it can accomplish. Several patients have picked up my copy of Ritalin- Free Kids in the waiting room and wanted to buy it, so I have ordered a good supply. Books like these are a great service to both patients and homeopaths. Doctors Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman and Robert Ullman are to be commended for their fine work.

SIMILLIMUM / Winter 1996 Volume IX No. 4