🌿 Mould exposure and autism symptoms…what’s the connection?

🌿 Mould exposure and autism symptoms…what’s the connection?

As a homeopath supporting children with autism and related conditions, I explore not just what’s happening, but why it’s happening and when the symptoms began.

One significant yet often overlooked factor is mould exposure.

🦠 What is mould and why is it harmful?

Moulds are fungi that thrive in damp environments, such as bathrooms, basements, or homes with hidden water damage. While they can cause mild allergies in some, they release mycotoxins which are TOXIC substances that impact our nervous system, immune response, and gut health.

For children with autism (or related disorders) who often have heightened sensitivity to environmental toxins, these mycotoxins can be especially disruptive.

🧠 Mould and autism symptoms: what’s the link?

Mould exposure can mimic or intensify existing autism-related symptoms, such as:

• Increased sensory sensitivities

• More frequent meltdowns, irritability, or aggression

• Sleep disturbances or night-waking

• Brain fog, slower processing, or inattentiveness

• Increased stimming or self-soothing behaviours

• Fluctuating gut issues (bloating, constipation, diarrhoea)

Some parents notice behavioural changes following a move to a damp home or after leaks, floods, or renovations; especially if mould has gone undetected and work carried out releases the spores

🏡 Could mould be an issue in your home?

Ask yourself:

• Does your home have a history of leaks or water damage?

• Are there musty smells, especially in bathrooms or basements?

• Do symptoms worsen in certain rooms or when you return home from being away?

Even hidden mould behind wallpaper or under flooring can affect sensitive individuals. We should not also assume that just because your home may be considered a new build, that mould isn’t an issue.

🧠The bottom line – it’s not just spores!

A mouldy environment exposes you to:

·        Spores – the reproductive units of mould which become airborne easily, especially when disturbed

·        Mycotoxins – the chemicals produced by some moulds such as stachybotrys, aspergillus and penicillin and can affect neurological, immune and endocrine systems

·        Hyphal fragments – pieces of the mould body which are smaller than spores and can get deeper into the lungs, often more inflammatory than spores

·        Cell wall debris – structural elements of mould which can trigger immune system overactivity and deep inflammation of lungs and sinuses (tricky little blighters which persist in dust or air even when mould isn’t visible)

·        Gaseous compounds (Volatile organic compounds or VOC’s) – gases released by mould as it digests materials like wood or fabric

🌱 Detox and support: what can you do?

If you suspect mould exposure is affecting your child, there are gentle ways to support their body’s ability to detoxify.

🧘‍♀️ Lifestyle support

• Air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce airborne spores.

• Ventilation: Open windows daily to circulate fresh air.

• Humidity control: Keep indoor humidity below 50%.

• Filtered water: Support kidney detox with clean, mineral-rich water.

🥦 Nutritional support

• Glutathione-rich foods: Asparagus, avocado, spinach — or consider supplementing under guidance.

• Sulphur-rich foods: Garlic, onions, broccoli, which support liver detox.

• Binders: Foods like activated charcoal (in small, monitored doses) or chlorella may help bind and remove toxins (seek professional advice).

✨ Homeopathic remedies that may help

Everyone is unique, and remedies are selected based on individual symptoms, but here are a few commonly indicated remedies when mould exposure is suspected:

• Arsenicum album - for anxiety, restlessness, and respiratory symptoms, often worse at night.

• Thuja  - often used when there is a history of damp or mouldy environments and chronic sensitivities.

• Nat sulph - indicated for ill effects of dampness and mould exposure, especially when respiratory or mood symptoms are present.

• Calc carb– For children who are sluggish, easily tired, and prone to damp-related complaints.

• Carbo veg – Useful for mould-related digestive symptoms and low vitality.

These remedies can support the body’s natural ability to rebalance and recover. Homeopathic detox protocols can also be used to target specific environmental toxins gently and safely.

Note: Remedies should be prescribed based on individual needs. A professional homeopath will consider your child’s whole picture.

💬 Final thoughts

Mould exposure can be a hidden stressor, particularly for children with autism. If your child’s symptoms have worsened unexpectedly, especially after moving house or following water damage, mould may be a factor worth exploring.

As a homeopath, I work holistically to understand and support the whole child, including helping families gently detox from environmental triggers like mould.

🌿 If you’re concerned about mould exposure or want to explore homeopathic support, you’re welcome to book a free discovery call.or even just drop me a message at melissa@bransgore-homeopathy.co.uk