Search Results for: shingles

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Top 5 Homeopathic Remedies for Shingles

Shingles is a viral disease characterized by a very painful skin rash which usually erupts in the form of cluster blisters on the body. It is also known as Herpes Zoster. The outbreak of shingles presents itself in the form of a cluster of fluid-filled blisters. The hallmark of shingles is that it affects only one side of the body. The blisters are located as band or strip on one side of the chest and do not cross the midline. Other locations include one side of the forehead or eye. Many people develop only one episode of shingles in their life, but some people can have recurrent episodes depending upon their immunity. The causative agent of Shingles is VZV (Varicella Zoster Virus). The reactivation of VZV causes shingles, and it is the same virus that causes chickenpox (varicella). Only those who ever had chickenpox can develop shingles later in their life. The first exposure to VZV that most commonly occurs in childhood or adolescent leads to chickenpox. After chickenpox resolves in a person, the virus remains dormant in some nerve cells of the spine of our body. When the VZV is in an inactive state in our body, it shows no symptoms. In some people, the virus can get reactivated again due to some factors and travel along the nerve pathway. It then reaches the skin of the particular area supplied by that nerve and can cause shingles (painful blisters).

Homeopathy is the best alternative treatment mode to treat shingles / herpes zoster in a gentle, yet effective manner. Homeopathy treats shingles magnificently and also reduces the chances of recurrence of the disease. Homeopathy aims to fight viral infection causing shingles to aid symptom relief and complete recovery gradually. With administration of well-selected homeopathic medicines according to characteristic symptoms of the affected person, great results may be seen. Timely treatment with homeopathy also reduces the chances of complications to a great extent. There is no cure for shingles in the conventional system of medicine; medications are aimed to reduce the duration of shingles episode and to minimize the intensity of pain. Some commonly used medicines in such mode include antivirals, analgesics (pain medications), and corticosteroids. All these can have side effects. On the other hand, the homeopathic medicines have no side effects at all.

Homeopathic medicines boost self – healing mechanism

To promote complete recovery in shingles, homeopathic remedies fight with the root cause which is a viral infection. Homeopathic remedies help boost immunity to reduce the severity of the symptoms initially and gradually give complete recovery. This way it leads to natural healing in a very gentle, harmless way.

Homeopathy leads to cure rather than suppression

In homeopathic treatment of shingles, medicines work to clear the infection from its roots rather than suppressing it. This yields long-term results rather than just temporary relief. This is achieved with oral medicines taken through the mouth that works on the internal body and not just skin surface. This heals the complaint inside out for remarkable recovery.

Homeopathy is effective for post-herpetic neuralgia too

Homeopathy also works very well for post-herpetic neuralgia cases. Homeopathy can naturally help to reduce the intensity of the pain. With time, homeopathic medicines help to get rid of this pain entirely without making the person dependent upon them.

Homeopathy has no side effects

One can easily rely on use of homeopathic medicines as these have no side effects because of their natural origin. These medicines always work to treat health issues without causing any harm.

Top 5 Homeopathic Medicines for Shingles

The 5 most prominently indicated homeopathic medicines for managing shingles are Rhus Tox, Ranunculus Bulbosus, Mezereum, Natrum Mur and Merc Sol.

1. Rhus Tox – For Shingles With Itching And Burning

Rhus Tox is very useful in Herpes Zoster with intense itching in the affected skin area. There is also an attending burning sensation. It is also a top medicine for managing post herpetic neuralgia with nerve pains and burning after herpes zoster.

When to use Rhus Tox?

This medicine works wonderfully to manage shingles with marked itching and burning in the rash.

How to use Rhus Tox?

Among its various potencies, it is best to begin with 30C potency once or twice a day.

2. Ranunculus Bulbosus – For Shingles With Bluish Blackish Vesicles

Ranunculus Bulbosus is a principle medicine for treating herpes zoster with bluish-blackish colored vesicles. The blisters are filled with fluid that have a burning sensation. Itching and burning gets worse from touch. It is also well indicated to manage sharp stitching pain that follows herpes affecting intercostal nerves

When to use Ranunculus Bulbosus?

This medicine suits well  cases with formation of bluish-black vesicles with itching and burning worse from touch.

How to use Ranunculus Bulbosus?

One may take this medicine once a day in 30C power.

3. Mezereum – For Shingles with Severe Nerve Pain

Mezereum is the most prominent medicine to help cases of shingles with marked nerve pain. The eruptions are covered with brownish scabs. There is itching in the eruptions. On scratching, burning sensation is felt on the affected skin area. Besides,  it is effective to manage burning pain after the rash has healed fully.

When to use Mezereum?

Mezereum should be selected to manage shingles with marked nerve pain in eruptions.

How to use Mezereum?

It is advised to use Mezereum 30C once a day.

4. Natrum Mur For Shingles With Blisters Leaving Rough Scaly Skin

Natrum Mur offers effective treatment for shingles when blisters with watery contents burst and leave rough, scaly / flaky skin. Blisters form on the burning spots on the skin. Its use is also preferred for crusty, dry eruptions forming in bends of the limbs and margins of the scalp.

When to use Natrum Mur?

This medicine should be considered to manage herpes zoster where blisters develop on the skin preceded by a burning sensation and on bursting leaves scaly, rough skin.

How to use Natrum Mur?

It is best to take this medicine in 6X potency, that can be administered twice or thrice a day.

5. Merc Sol – For Rash Starting From Lower Back, Going  To Navel Encircling The Body

Merc Sol is a suitable medicine for shingles when the rash begins from the lower back that extends to the navel and encircles the body. There are blisters that ooze watery discharge when scratched. Burning like fire is felt in eruptions from time to time. There is also a tendency of pus formation in the eruptions. Excessive itching also occurs in the eruptions.

When to use Merc Sol?

The key indication for using this medicine in shingles is skin rash starting from lower back then going to navel encircling the body.

How to use Merc Sol?

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. In most cases, 30C potency is selected to start with the treatment once a day.

Contributing Factors that Lead to Shingles

Stress
Emotional or psychological stress makes a person more prone to develop shingles since chronic or intense stress weakens our immune system.

Increasing Age
Shingles most commonly occur after 50 years of age. The risk of having shingles increases with age. It is rarely seen in children, but older people are more prone to develop it due to compromised immunity.

Impaired Immune System
Shingles mostly develops in people with a weak immune system. Certain diseases like HIV/AIDS, cancer, a long history of medicines intake, long-term use of steroids or immunosuppressive drugs, autoimmune disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases) make a person more prone to develop shingles.

Shingles – Signs and Symptoms

Early symptoms: The initial symptoms of shingles before the rash develops include fever and feeling of weakness. There may be a feeling of pain, burning and tingling sensation over the affected area.

Skin Rash: Skin rash in shingles appears as pink or red blotchy patches which appear in the form of a band over one side of the trunk (the most common site) along the nerve pathway. The person can also feel shooting type of pain in the area of the rash. At this stage, shingles are not contagious.

Blisters: Blisters are a cluster of fluid-filled eruptions that appear after the rash. They appear as a band over one side of the trunk, and can also develop over one side of the forehead or eye. Blisters continue to grow for many days.

Scab Formation: Over a period of seven to ten days, blisters sometimes ooze a contagious liquid, start becoming cloudy and begin to flatten. Gradually scab starts forming over the flattened blisters. It can take approximately one to two weeks for complete crust formation over the blisters.
At this stage, there are fewer chances of transmission of the virus. The pain also starts subsiding, but in some people, pain continues for months or years.

The Shingles ‘Belt’: Shingles is also referred to as ‘shingles girdle’ or ‘shingles band’ as it looks like a belt or half belt when it appears around the waist or rib cage. Shingles is easily recognizable with this classic presentation.

Shingles On Face: Shingles on the face appear in different areas.

Zoster Opthalmicus: Shingles can commonly involve the trigeminal nerve of the face. The ophthalmic branch is most commonly involved, and when the virus gets reactivated in this nerve branch, it is referred to as zoster opthalmicus. In some cases, it can cause blindness. The skin of the forehead, the orbit of the eye and upper eyelids may also be involved.

Shingles Oticus: It refers to shingles which involve the ear. It develops when the virus travels from the facial nerve to the vestibulocochlear nerve. There are chances of hearing loss and vertigo in this condition.

Widespread Shingles: A shingles rash is referred to as a wide rash which occurs when more than twenty skin lesions supplied by separate spinal nerves are involved. It is more likely to occur in people with a weak immune system.

Infections can also occur in open blisters and can lead to permanent scarring of skin in some individuals.

Healing: In many people, the skin rash starts healing within two to four weeks. Some people are left with minor scars while in some, complete healing without any scarring is observed.
Some people can also have continued pain for months or longer after healing has taken place at the site of the rash. This is referred to as postherpetic Neuralgia.

Are Shingles Contagious?

Active blisters are contagious. The infection (VZV ) can transmit to other people through direct contact with the infected person. However, the other person will first develop chickenpox, not shingles if the person never had a VZV infection earlier.
On the other hand, if a person has had chickenpox earlier and he gets exposed to the VZV infection, there is a likelihood of developing shingles.

Shingles: Complications

Post Herpetic Neuralgia: In some cases, even after the shingles blisters have resolved, the pain continues. When pain persists for more than 90 days, it is termed as Post Herpetic Neuralgia. In some persons, the pain continues for months or years even after the herpetic lesions have subsided.

Post herpetic neuralgia is most commonly seen with shingles in the mouth which occurs when the mandibular division or the maxillary part of the trigeminal nerve is involved.

Neurological Issues: Shingles can cause facial paralysis, hearing problems and balance issues depending upon which nerves are involved in the infection.

Loss of Vision: When shingles involve the eyes, it can cause infection in the eyes and subsequent loss of vision in some cases.

Encephalitis: In sporadic cases, shingles may lead to inflammation of the brain resulting in encephalitis (acute inflammation in the brain).

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What Causes Skin Redness And Its Homeopathic Remedies

Skin redness medically called erythema can occur from a number of reasons. The causes varies from mild to serious, so one should always consult a doctor for correct diagnosis and treatment at the right time. The redness may appear on any part of the body and can be attended with rash/eruptions on the skin, itching, burning sensation and swelling. The redness can occur in spots/patches or can be generally seen on any body part.

Homeopathy offers a successful treatment for cases of skin redness. It can effectively manage cases of skin redness with medicines of natural origin. Along with skin redness, homeopathic medicines also help in managing associated symptoms like itching, burning and eruptions on the skin. In conventional mode, medicated creams are used for cases of skin redness that bring short-term relief. But homeopathy brings complete recovery in such cases by aiming to treat the root cause behind it.

Medicine selection as per case

As per homeopathic principles, the most suitable homeopathic medicine for any case including that of skin redness has to be selected in every individual case separately after detailed case evaluation. The characteristic features in every case have to be given importance to select homeopathic remedy for every case. This well-selected medication works to provide the best results. It is advised to always consult a homeopathic physician prior to use of any homeopathic medicine for skin redness as prescription varies from case to case.

Homeopathy targets the root cause

In homeopathy, the prime aim in treating any health issue is targeting the root cause of the problem. In cases of skin redness as well, homeopathy has the same goal i.e. to fix the underlying cause. Cases of skin redness arising from various causes can be healed wonderfully with homeopathy, for example dermatitis, rosacea, shingles, psoriasis and fungal infections. Homeopathic medicines are recommended for managing cases of skin redness of mild to moderate intensity. For cases with severe skin redness and those with some serious cause associated, like allergic reaction to some medicine, cellulitis, one must take help from conventional mode of treatment as homeopathy has limitations in helping such serious cases. Self-medication should not be done in any case.

Safe treatment with no suppression

Homeopathy is a very safe treatment mode to help cases of skin redness. Homeopathy never supresses the skin issue because suppression only helps temporarily but it always carries a chance to show up again in future and sometimes in a more severe form. So suppression is never a way of treatment in homeopathy. Rather homeopathy works on boosting the body’s internal self-healing mechanism and strengthens it. This helps to fight with the cause of the problem and overcome it in a natural and a very harmless manner. This treats the complaint from within the body thus carrying a chance of complete recovery rather than providing short term relief.

Natural medicines with zero side effects

Homeopathic medicines being prepared from naturally occurring substances are entirely safe to use and carry no risk of side effects. These can be recommended to persons of all age groups. No adverse reaction is ever noticed with the use of these medicines.

 

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines For Skin redness

The top ranking homeopathic medicines to treat skin redness are Apis Mellifica, Belladonna, Merc Sol, Graphites, Natrum Mur and Sepia.

1. Apis Mellifica – Top Recommended Medicine

Apis Mellifica is a top-listed homeopathic medicine to manage skin redness. In cases needing this medicine, skin redness is attended with heat, burning and stinging sensation. It is also indicated for redness on the skin attended with marked swelling. This medicine is of great use in cases of allergic dermatitis. The skin is red, sensitive and painful to touch in such cases. Next it is effective for cases of hives. Here red, inflamed bumps form on the skin. There is burning stinging pain. There is marked itching in the hives. It gets worse at night. The hives are painful to touch where this medicine is required.

When to use Apis Mellifica?

This medicine can be used to manage redness on skin along with burning, stinging pain especially in cases of dermatitis and hives.

How to use Apis Mellifica?

This medicine can be taken once or twice a day in 30C potency.

2. Belladonna – For Redness, Heat And Dryness On Skin

This medicine is very beneficial for cases of redness on skin with heat and dryness. On touching the skin, it feels burning hot. Itching is also felt along with skin redness. Swelling may be visible on the affected area. This medicine is useful to treat red spots on the skin accompanied with small fluid-filled eruptions. There may be fever along with marked heated sensation in the body. This medicine is very helpful for treating cases of dermatitis with bright red patches on the skin. This medicine also works well in cases of rosacea. In such cases, the face turns red along with burning and heated sensation.

When to use Belladonna?

This medicine is great choice to manage skin redness with marked dryness and heated sensation.

How to use Belladonna?

Use of this medicine is recommended in both low and high potencies. Initially one may use its 30C potency once or twice a day. For using high potencies, prior consultation with homeopathic physician is a must.

3. Merc Sol – For Skin Redness With Fluid Filled Eruptions

Merc Sol is an effective medicine for treating cases of redness on the skin attended with fluid-filled eruptions. These eruptions ooze a thin clear fluid after which redness remains for a few days. In some cases, pus-filled eruptions may form on the reddish spots on the skin. Merc Sol is very helpful for managing eczema cases with small raised dark red spots on the skin. Eczema can be present on any body part except the face where this medicine is required. It is accompanied with intense itching. Burning sensation is felt that gets worse from touch and rubbing. Pain is felt along with burning.

When to use Merc Sol?

This medicine is recommended highly to treat skin redness with the presence of eruptions either filled with clear fluid or pus.

How to use Merc Sol?

It is advised to use Merc Sol 30C once a day.

4. Graphites – For Red Spots On Skin With Itching And Burning

Graphites is a very important medicine for managing cases of red spots on the skin attended with intense itching and burning sensation. Red spots appear on the skin which are slightly elevated. Bluish white eruptions may also be seen. Itching is very severe with an urge to scratch it violently. The skin is dry and rough in general.

When to use Graphites?

Graphites is a beneficial medicine to treat reddish spots on the skin that are itchy and have a burning sensation.

How to use Graphites?

Graphites gives good results in 3X potency that can be used once or twice a day.

5. Natrum Mur – For Skin Redness In Eczema And Hives

This medicine is of great help in cases of eczema and hives with marked redness on the skin. In eczema cases, it is used when there is redness, dryness and inflammation on the skin. Crusty eruptions may form in the bends of limbs like elbow crease and area behind the knees. In cases of hives, it is indicated when large red bumps appear on the skin with an urge for violent itching. Besides, there is burning sensation. Hives usually appear after exertion where this medicine is required.

When to use Natrum Mur?

Natrum Mur is a useful medicine for redness of skin in eczema and hives cases with dry, inflamed skin.

How to use Natrum Mur?

It yields best results in biochemic form in 6X potency that can be used twice or thrice a day.

6. Sepia – For Red Spots In Psoriasis Cases

Sepia is very suitable for managing cases of red spots on the skin in cases of psoriasis. In cases requiring it, oval shaped red patches are seen on the skin covered with white shiny scales. The patches can be present on the face, head, arms, legs, chest, and back.

When to use Sepia?

The use of this medicine is suggested to manage red spots on the skin covered with whitish scales occurring in psoriasis cases.

How to use Sepia?

Its dose should be limited to once a day in 30C power.

Causes

Out of the many reasons, the first reason behind skin redness can be dermatitis/ eczema. It refers to inflammation on the skin with red, itchy patches. It can be attended with eruptions that may ooze fluid besides showing red inflamed skin. It is of various types like atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis. The second cause can be sunburn in which a rash appears on the skin resulting from excessive exposure to UV rays of the sun. Its signs and symptoms may include redness on the skin with heat, pain, sensitivity to touch, fluid-filled eruptions (blisters), and itching. In severe cases, fever, headache and nausea, or vomiting may occur. The next cause behind red skin can be skin burns from causes like hot liquids, flames, chemicals, acids. Another cause is rosacea. In this skin condition, there is intense redness/flushing of face that can be attended with pimples on the face. Additionally, there is dilatation of the blood vessels over the face that start becoming visible. Further causes include lupus, shingles and ringworm. Lupus is an autoimmune condition that can affect multiple body parts including the skin. In case of a skin rash, it occurs mainly on the face, scalp and neck. A very characteristic feature of this condition is a red, butterfly-shaped rash on the face. Shingles refers to a viral infection caused by varicella zoster virus resulting in fluid-filled little eruptions on the skin with marked pain, itching, burning, numbness and tingling. Ringworm refers to ring-shaped red patches on the skin resulting from a fungal infection. Psoriasis is also one of the reasons for skin redness characterized by red inflamed patches on the skin covered with silvery white scales. Hives is yet another reason that causes raised bumps (wheals) on the skin that can be red-colored and are inflamed. Red rashes can also appear as the side effects of certain medicines, for example pain medicines like aspirin, advil, and antibiotics like penicillin. Skin redness may also occur in cases of insect bites and stings. Besides the above, skin redness can appear in cases of cellulitis, erysipelas and scarlet fever. Cellulitis and erysipelas are skin infections. Among these, erysipelas affects the superficial layers of the skin while cellulitis is a serious infection that affects deeper tissues. Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness that can appear in persons who have suffered from strep throat (a type of sore throat caused by group A streptococcus bacteria). In scarlet fever, a bright red rash appears on the skin along with sore throat and high fever.

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Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines For Facial Numbness And Tingling

Numbness means loss of feeling or sensation on the skin, and tingling refers to a prickling feeling or sensation of sharp pointed objects pricking the skin. Numbness accompanied by  tingling sensation is medically referred to as paresthesia. Numbness and tingling on the face can arise from various reasons. The main reason behind it is damage, irritation, or compression of a nerve in the face. Nerve damage can happen from different causes such as an injury, deficiency of vitamins like vitamin B and niacin, some infections like shingles (an infection of the nerves caused by varicella zoster virus that cause fluid-filled tiny bumps on the skin attended with pain, itching, burning, numbness and tingling on the affected skin area), diabetes, etc. Nerve damage can also be caused by an autoimmune condition known as multiple sclerosis. In this condition, the immune cells damage the protective covering of the nerves out of a misdirected response. It can cause numbness and tingling on the face along with other symptoms such as numbness and weakness in the limbs, unsteady gait, blurred/double vision, vertigo, fatigue, slurred speech, lack of coordination, mood swings, and urinary bladder and bowel problems.

Nerve damage is also seen in cases of Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that occurs from an inflamed nerve of the face resulting in sudden weakness of one-sided facial muscles causing drooping on one side of the face. Another reason behind facial numbness and tingling could be trigeminal neuralgia. It refers to severe one-sided facial pain along the course of the trigeminal nerve due to irritation, damage or compression of this nerve. It causes severe shooting or electric shock-like facial pain and it can be preceded by numbness or tingling on the face. Another cause can be migraine. Migraine refers to one-sided headache usually pulthe sating type that in most of cases is attended by nausea and vomiting. In some cases, headache is preceded by an aura phase in which numbness and tingling on one side of the face can appear. This type of migraine is known as hemiplegic migraine. Further, in some cases of epilepsy, numbness or tingling on the face may occur during a seizure (a fit). Facial numbness and tingling can also occur in cases of anxiety, or panic attack or can be a side effect of a medicine. Medicines for treating high blood pressure and fluoroquinolones may cause side effects. Lastly, facial numbness and tingling can also indicate a serious condition called stroke. A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical help. Stroke refers to the interruption of oxygen supply (either due to blockage or bursting of a blood vessel) to the brain that results in death of brain cells and loss of brain function.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines are very effective in managing numbness and tingling on the face. These medicines are highly suitable for persons of all age groups. These medicines aim to treat the underlying cause behind the health issue to bring great relief. Along with this, homeopathic medicines can also manage any associated symptoms such as pain, itching, fatigue, headache, vertigo etc. Homeopathic medicines are purely of natural origin that treat a problem without any side effects. These medicines are selected individually for every case based on the symptom. So it is advised to take any homeopathic medicine under supervision of a homeopathic physician. Self-medication should not be done in any case. These medicines are recommended only for cases of mild to moderate intensity without any underlying serious cause. In case facial numbness and tingling are severe or occurring from serious causes like stroke, immediate help from conventional mode of treatment should be taken as homeopathy has limitations to handle such serious cases.

Homeopathic Medicines For Facial Numbness And Tingling

1. Zincum Met – Top Recommended Medicine

Zincum Met is a great medicine well indicated for managing various nervous complaints. It is a leading medicine to manage numbness and tingling sensation. It is also well indicated where nerve pain in the face is marked. In cases needing it, stitching pain on the face as from needles is felt, other than numbness and tingling. The nerve pain in the face gets worse from touch. There is a worsening of pain in the evening. Besides, this medicine is prominent for managing twitching sensation on the face. Twitching means brief spontaneous muscle contractions. Lastly, another nerves-related complaint where this medicine proves effective is formication on the face. Formication means sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin.

2. Agaricus – For Numbness On face With Cold Needle Pricking Sensation

This medicine works well in cases of numbness of the face. A sensation of cold needles running through nerves of the face is a very characteristic feature. Muscle contractions can also occur on the face. Needles pricking on the chin can also attend. Chin can be covered with fluid-filled tiny bumps. Next there can be tearing sort of pain on the face. Further itching, burning and redness on the cheeks can be present. This medicine is also indicated for cases of paralysis of facial muscles.

3. Causticum – For Numbness And Tingling With Burning Sensation

Causticum is yet another effective medicine for cases of numbness and tingling on the face. There is marked numbness on the side of the face as if the face is asleep in cases needing this medicine. Burning sensation is also felt on the face along with the above complaints. Sometimes itching occurs on the face. One-sided facial paralysis may be felt where this medicine is required. Tearing pain and twitching on the left side of the face can be felt along with the above complaints.

4. Hypericum – From Nerve Damage And Inflammation

Hypericum is very helpful when there occurs numbness, tingling, burning sensation from nerve inflammation and damage. Pain originating from the nerves on the face is felt too. Mainly right-sided facial pain occurs. A heated sensation is felt on the face. A tense feeling occurs on the cheeks.

5. Aconite – Along With Heaviness Feeling On Face

This medicine works well in cases of numbness, tingling on the face along with heaviness on the entire face. Nerve pain on the left side of the face is present. Restlessness is felt along with pain. The face is red and hot. Creeping sensation as well as muscle contractions are felt on the face.

6. Arsenic Album – For Tingling With Burning, Stinging

This medicine is indicated for tingling on the face along with burning, stinging sensation. It feels as if it is occurring from red hot needles. Tearing and needle-like pricking pains are felt on the face. Violent itching can also occur on the face. Fluid-filled eruptions may occur on the face along with itching and burning sensation.

7. Ranunculus Bulbosus – For Tingling On Nose And Chin

This medicine is suitable to manage tingling sensation on the face, especially in the area of nose and chin. Heated sensation is felt on the face in cases needing it. Redness of cheeks occurs with this. Eruptions containing fluid may appear in clusters on the face.

8. Belladonna – With Facial Redness And Burning Heat

This medicine can be considered for cases of facial numbness and tingling when attended with facial redness along with burning heat. One feels restless. There may be contractions of facial muscles in addition to the above symptoms.

 

 

 

 

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How to Handle Sound Sensitivity with Homeopathy?

Sound sensitivity, medically called hyperacusis, refers to over-sensitivity to a variety of sounds that are unbearable and feel painfully loud to the sufferer. They may also frighten some sufferers. In some cases, it may result in seizures (fits). Sound sensitivity is also referred to as decreased sound tolerance. In persons having sound sensitivity, certain sounds are perceived only at a very high volume. The same may be perceived at normal volume by persons having normal hearing. Some sounds are not even heard by them. The sound made while turning pages of the book, chewing food, running water, and running of electrical home appliances seems intolerable to persons with sound sensitivity.

These sounds may be annoying to the sufferer and impact his/her mental health resulting in anxiety, irritability, anger, depression, and can lead to social isolation. Depending on the cause behind sound sensitivity, some other symptoms may be present like tinnitus (hearing noises like ringing, buzzing in ear in the absence of an external source), feeling of fullness/pressure in the ears and pain in the ears. Being tired and stressed may worsen the symptoms.

It can result from various reasons. Some of these include

1. Head or ear injury or an infection affecting the inner ear and ear damage resulting from toxins.

2. Migraine: It refers to one-sided headache of throbbing type chiefly attended with nausea and vomiting. One may feel excessive sensitivity to sound and light.

3. Autism: It is a neuro-developmental disorder that leads to problems in communication, and social interaction of child along with restricted and repetitive behavior.

4. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): It is a condition that causes problems in processing sensory stimuli and responding to them appropriately. Sensory stimuli involve sound, sight, taste, smell and touch. The sufferer may either give an oversensitive or hyposensitive response to sensory stimuli.

5. Meniere’s disease: It refers to an inner ear disorder represented by different medical conditions: tinnitus (noises in the ear in the absence of any external source), vertigo and hearing loss usually on one side of the ear. In some cases, it is linked with sound sensitivity.

6. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition related to the mind triggered by a traumatic event in life (like a road accident, sexual assault, etc) and depression.

7. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): It refers to tiredness both physically and mentally that does not improve with rest. There is no underlying medical condition behind it.

8. Lyme Disease: A bacterial tick-borne disease, it is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdoferi.

9. Temporo Mandibular Disorder (TMJ) disorder: It refers to a disorder resulting from a problem with the jaw joint, or muscles related to the jaw movement.

10. Ramsay hunt syndrome: It arises when Shingles (a viral infection caused by varicella zoster virus) affect the facial nerve lying close to ear.

11. When no cause is identified, then it is referred as an idiopathic case.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is very effective in managing complaints of sound sensitivity. These medicines are entirely safe to use with zero side effects as these are prepared from naturally occurring substances. Homeopathic medicines bring excellent results in such cases by aiming to treat the root cause behind it. They bring gradual improvement in such cases, and the results may vary from case to case. The most suitable medicine in these cases is selected keeping in mind the individual requirement after detailed case evaluation based on the characteristic symptom presentation. So it is advised to get every case evaluated by a doctor and take medicine under the supervision of a doctor. Self-medication should not be done in any case.

Homeopathic Medicines for Sound Sensitivity

1. Asarum Europaeum

It is a highly recommended medicine for cases of sound sensitivity. Persons needing it have hypersensitive nerves with oversensitivity to the slightest noise. The rattle of the paper and scratching on the clothes are unbearable to them. Even the thought of scratching with nails by someone seems to bring a nervous tremor (trembling) in them. A very characteristic symptom that can be present is an extreme sensitivity to cold. Additionally, low energy levels can also be an attending feature.

2. Borax

Borax is another important medicine to manage sound sensitivity. Those requiring this medicine get easily frightened by the least noise. They are very nervous people and get startled from sharp noises like sneezing, hawking, coughing and hearing someone crying. Additionally, they may have a great fear of downward motion like going downstairs and fear of falling. Fear of thunder may also be there along with the above symptoms.

3. Opium

This medicine is well indicated for persons who are unable to sleep due to acuteness of hearing. Noise from distant places disturbs the sleep and keeps them awake. They are actually very sleepy but are unable to sleep due to this medical condition. Besides, they also complain of noises in the ear i.e. tinnitus. The noises can be of different types. These might include roaring, buzzing or humming type, varying from case to case.

4. Zincum Met

Zincum Met is of great use in treating many of the nerves-related complaints including sound sensitivity. The key indicating feature to use this medicine is sensitivity to the sounds of people talking. These sounds affect the nerves in the sufferer and cause impatience and bad temper in them. Marked fatigue (tiredness, exhaustion) in an intense degree can accompany the above symptoms in most of the cases.

5. Coffea Cruda

Coffea Cruda is an effective medicine when hearing is very acute with hearing even very distant sounds that are not audible to persons with normal hearing. Persons needing it also have marked sensitivity to voices, music and even footsteps. Even little noise seems to cause pain in the body or worsen the already present pain. Besides hearing, a person’s other senses are also over-sensitive, like smell, taste and touch.

6. Theridion

This medicine is suitable when there is extreme sensitivity to noise that seems to penetrate the whole body. The noises especially seem to penetrate the teeth. It is followed by nausea and pain all over the body, and a chilly feeling. Vertigo may also result from the slightest noise. Noise may make headache worse. The noises that are the most disturbing include vibration of any sort or the sound of footsteps while walking. There is also marked restlessness along with the above symptoms.

7. Belladonna

Belladonna is recommended when there is ear pain along with sensitivity to sounds. The slightest noise seems to cause ear pain. Startling occurs from the least noise. Tinnitus may also be present with roaring, ringing and humming noises in ear. Headache may also occur from noise.

8. Phosphorus

This medicine is prominently indicated for cases in which there is oversensitivity to different senses other than hearing including odor, light and touch. The slightest noise cause startling in persons needing it. In case of sensitivity to smell, sensitivity to the smell of flowers is most prominent that may even cause fainting. In general, anxiety and restlessness may also be present.

9. Nux Vomica

Nux vomica is indicated when there is increased sensitivity to noise, odor, and light. Every sound causes pain to those needing it. Sudden noise may sometimes result in fits or seizures.

 

 

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5 Homeopathic Medicines for Post Herpetic Neuralgia

Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN) is a complication of Herpes Zoster also known as Shingles. Herpes Zoster is a viral infection caused by reactivation of Varicella Zoster virus (it is the same virus that causes chicken pox). Herpes Zoster is characterised by painful rash or blisters (fluid-filled bumps) on skin. The rash will only be on one side of the body, either right or left, in a particular area in a band-like pattern. If the pain of Herpes Zoster continues for more than three months in the affected skin areas after the skin rash has healed, then it is known as Post Herpetic Neuralgia. In one out of five people who get infected by Herpes Zoster, the person will have nerve pain following the healing of the rash. The stabbing type of pain may vary from discomfort to severe. Along with pain, burning, increased sensitivity, weakness of the affected skin area may also arise. The pain may continue for weeks, months or even a year after the rash has healed.

homeopathic medicines for postherpetic neuralgia

Homeopathy is highly effective in treating neuralgic complaints i.e. nerve pain. Homeopathic medicines for post herpetic neuralgia are deep acting remedies that can help resolve the problem.  As a first step, homeopathy controls the intensity and frequency of the pain. Then the medicines work to remove the chronic and recurrent pain. In mainstream medicine, painkillers, steroids, pain-relieving skin patches, anti-convulsants and anti-depressants are given to manage pain in cases of post herpetic neuralgia. These give temporary pain relief but the pain does not get cured completely. In homeopathy, the medicines are given to resolve the pain from its root and give a complete cure.

With the use of homeopathic medicines, the burning sensation, hypersensitivity, itchy feeling associated with this condition also gets healed. This is because the medicines are given keeping in mind the totality of the symptoms that work on every aspect of the disease. The symptoms though, get better gradually, may take some time but once relief sets in, the complaint gets better till it goes away completely in a few months’ time.

Homeopathy aims to fight the viral infection in PHN cases by boosting the self-healing mechanism of the body. This way it does not just work superficially; rather it works deeply to eradicate the root cause behind it. Therefore, it ensures that the condition gets treated from its origin and that too in the most harmless and natural way.

Homeopathic medicines used to treat post herpetic neuralgia are 100% safe with zero side effects as these are sourced from natural substances. These medicines are used in highly diluted doses that ensure safe recovery.

5 Top Homeopathic Medicines For Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)

The top most recommended homeopathic medicines to treat PHN are Mezereum, Ranunculus Bulbosus, Arsenic Album, Dolichos and Rhus Tox.

1. Mezereum – For Postherpetic Neuralgia With Intense Burning

Mezereum is rated among the best medicines for post herpetic neuralgia. It is the best-suited prescription when PHN pains are violent and are attended with marked burning sensation. Mezereum also helps during active Herpes Zoster when eruptions arise on the skin. The key symptoms to look out for before prescribing Mezereum during Herpes Zoster infection are violently itching vesicles with shining red areola and intense burning.

When to use Mezereum?

Mezereum is a highly suitable medicine to manage post herpetic neuralgia with severe burning pains.

How to use Mezereum?

This medicine can be used once a day in 30C potency.

2. Ranunculus Bulbosus – For Sharp, Stitching Pains Coming In Paroxysms (Sudden Attack)

Ranunculus Bulbosus is indicated for sharp, stitching PHN pains that come in paroxysms. It is also one of the top listed medicines for intercostal neuralgia following herpetic infection. Ranunculus Bulbosus is well indicated for Herpes Zoster when the vesicle eruptions are bluish in color. The eruptions are attended with itching and burning symptoms which worsen on contact.

When to use Ranunculus Bulbosus?

It is an excellent medicine for PHN when pains are sharp, stitching type occurring in sudden attacks

How to use Ranunculus Bulbosus?

It is advised to use this medicine in 30C power once or twice a day.

3. Arsenic Album – To Manage Burning Sort of Nerve Pains Worse At Night

Another prominently indicated medicine for PHN with burning pains besides Mezereum is Arsenic Album. In cases needing this medicine, the burning pain is very severe at night. Arsenic Album is also given to manage itching on the skin. Restlessness can attend these symptoms. It is also indicated to manage active Herpes Zoster outbreak when marked burning pain is felt in the eruptions. These eruptions might be covered with scales like fish in most of the cases.

When to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine is well indicated to manage burning type of pains in PHN cases when pains are worse at night.

How to use Arsenic Album?

Arsenic Album 30C should be taken once a day only.

4. Dolichos – To Manage pain and Skin Itching Without Any Rash Or Eruptions

Dolichos is yet another natural remedy to relieve post-herpetic nerve pains. Along with pains there is skin itching occurring without any rash or eruptions. For Herpes Zoster, this medicine is mostly indicated when eruptions begin in the armpit, especially on the left side that spreads to the sternum (bone in middle of chest) and to the spine. It is accompanied by smarting and burning sort of pain.

When to use Dolichos?

Dolichos is of great use when there are pains attended with skin itching in cases of post herpetic neuralgia.

How to use Dolichos?

One may take this medicine in 30C power two to three times a day as per the intensity of the complaint.

5. Rhus Tox – For Pain With Restlessness And Sensitivity Of Skin To Cold Air

It is one of the best medicines for PHN where the pains are attended with marked restlessness. The skin is sensitive to cold air in such cases. In Herpes Zoster, Rhus Tox is the most preferred among medicines when the vesicles are yellowish with itching and stinging.

When to use Rhus Tox?

This medicine can be considered in PHN cases when pain occurs along with restlessness and sensitivity of skin to cold air.

How to use Rhus Tox?

Though it can be used in different potencies but in the beginning,  it is best to take it in 30C potency twice a day.

What are the Symptoms of PHN?

The symptoms appear on the skin area affected with Herpes Zoster eruptions and are usually one-sided.

1. Pain after rash of Herpes Zoster has healed – Pain remains for 3 months or more. In some cases, it may last for one year or more. Pain can be aching, sharp, stabbing, throbbing, electric shock like, or burning on nature. The pain can be continuous or intermittent. Pain may get worse at night or from cold or hot temperature.

2. Even the slightest touch on the affected area is painful, this area may also be sensitive to cold air.

3. Numbness, tingling or itching on the affected skin region, though it is not very common

4. Very rarely, muscle weakness and tremors occur, if the affected nerve involved controls muscle movement too

5. Scarring on skin on affected area may be seen

What are the Causes behind Post Herpetic Neuralgia?

Post Herpetic Neuralgia, as mentioned in the beginning, is a complication of Herpes Zoster. Herpes Zoster is a viral disease leading to painful skin eruptions caused by varicella zoster virus. Varicella zoster virus is the virus that causes chicken pox when a person gets infected with this virus initially for the first time. Though the person recovers from chicken pox within weeks, the virus remains in the nerve cells in an inactive state. This virus can reactivate any time it finds a suitable environment like low immunity, some sort of medicines, etc. When the dormant virus gets reactivated, it leads to Herpes Zoster or Shingles with painful skin eruptions. The Herpes Zoster rash resolves within two to four weeks’ time. In some cases, even after the skin eruptions completely resolve, the pain continues for months or years together. This nerve pain persists for more than three months. The PHN results from damage to nerve fibres caused by Herpes Zoster virus. As a result of damaged nerve fibers, the message of transmission from the skin to the brain cannot be passed normally. This nerve gets muddled, transmitting random pain signals to the brain when pain is burning, excruciating.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of PHN as follows:

1. Old age: The risk of PHN increases with age. Those above 50 yrs of age are at risk, PHN is rare under 40 yrs of age.

2. Herpes Zoster on the face or trunk (body part except head, neck and limbs)

3. Weak immune system: The immune system may be compromised due to certain medical conditions, such as cancer or HIV, or certain medications, such as steroids, chemotherapy, and immunosuppressant medicines.

4. Intensity of the skin rash due to Herpes Zoster is highly intense

5. Women are more at risk than men

6. Diabetes

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Dolichos Pruriens: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

The remedy Dolichos Pruriens is derived from a plant named Mucuna pruriens. It belongs to family Leguminosae. This plant bears fruit pod covered with bristly hair. This pod is used to prepare homeopathic medicine Dolichos. When the pod of this plant undergoes potentization (a process of preparing homeopathic medicines that arouses medicinal properties of a crude substance), it is converted into a magnificent homeopathic medicine Dolichos Pruriens. With its brilliant action on skin, it gives marvellous results in case of skin itching particularly when there are no associated eruptions or rash with it.

Drug Action

Dolichos Pruriens seems to act especially on the skin. Besides these, its action is noted on throat, gums, gastric system and liver.

Clinical Indications

Itching, senile pruritis, herpes zoster, neuralgia, jaundice, sore throat, gums pain, colic, constipation, piles, hepatitis

 Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Skin Concerns (Itching, Burning, Herpes Zoster)

If we have to pick the most important site of action of Dolichos, it would be skin. The principal action of Dolichos is noted on the skin. It is extensively used in treating various skin problems. Primarily it is a sovereign remedy for managing intense itching on the skin when there are no eruptions or rashes associated with it. Skin itching without eruptions or any rash calls unmistakably for use of this Dolichos. In cases needing this medicine, skin itching is present all over the body but is worse on the shoulders, knees, elbows and the hairy parts. Itching gets worse at night, is very intense and prevents the sufferer from falling asleep. Scratching worsens the itching. There is some relief in itching from cold water application. Burning is also felt on the skin in bed at night which is intolerable. This medicine has been found to be very effective in cases of senile pruritis which means skin itching in the elderly people. Its use is further applicable in management of cases of Herpes Zoster (also known as Shingles) that refers to a viral infection caused by varicella zoster virus resulting in a very painful skin rash with blisters means fluid – filled bumps.

Shingles

Shingles

In cases needing it, pain begins under the left shoulder blade followed by eruptions in the armpit on the same side. It then spreads towards the sternum and backwards towards the spine. It is accompanied by excessive burning and smarting sensation. It is also an excellent medicine for cases where nerve pain persists following Shingles even when the rash has been already healed. This condition is medically known as Postherpetic Neuralgia. Lastly, it is well indicated for cases of jaundice attended with intense itching of skin. The skin is yellow in spots and itching is worse at night in such cases.

Key Indicating Features

Intense itching on the skin without any eruptions/rash

Senile pruritis (itching in the elderly)

Herpes Zoster with excessive burning and smarting

Jaundice attended with intense skin itching

2. Throat Problems (Throat Pain)

Next comes the action of Dolichos on the throat. Here it is well-indicated for cases of throat pain that gets worse from swallowing. The pain is marked below the angle of lower jaw on the right side. It feels as if a splinter is embedded in that spot. The throat may feel rough as well. In some cases needing it, there occurs pain in the right side of throat with a contracted sensation that goes to the left side.

Key Indicating Features

Throat pain below angle of lower jaw on right side with the sensation of splinter embedded in that spot

Pain in right side of throat with a contracted sensation that goes to left side

3. Dental Complaints (Toothache, Pain In Gums)

It can effectively deal with certain dental complaints. It is a well-indicated medicine for relieving pain in a decayed tooth. It is a dull aching sort of pain, especially on the right side.  It can help to manage pain in the gums. The pain is intense that prevents sleep. It is of great help in managing soreness and tenderness of the gums in teething children. The child feels irritation in the gums and wants the gums to be rubbed continuously during dentition.

Key Indicating Features

Dull, aching pain in the decayed teeth on right side

Gum pain hindering sleep

Sore, tender gums in teething children

Irritation in gums during dentition with constant desire to rub the gums

4. Gastric Issues (Pain, Constipation, Piles, Worms, Hepatitis)

By acting on gastric system it proves useful in cases of swollen, bloated abdomen with constipation. It works well in cases of bruised pain in left inguinal region and also below the navel. It acts well on the rectum and gives good relief in cases of constipation and piles (swollen, enlarged veins in or around anus or in lower rectum) complaint. It can be given in constipation cases when attended with intense itching. Constipation may be accompanied with liver complaints. In piles, it can be used when burning sensation is marked. It is also helpful in cases of worms, especially threadworms. Use of this medicine is also recommended for liver complaints. It can manage well cases of liver inflammation (hepatitis). The liver is swollen with pain going through from left lobe.

Key Indicating Features

Swollen, bloated abdomen with constipation

Bruised pain in left inguinal region and also below the navel

Constipation with intense itching

Swollen liver with pain going through from left lobe

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse at night, on right side, from scratching

Dosage

It can be used in both low and high potencies. Its low potencies can be repeated often while frequent repetition of high potencies should be avoided.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Aconite

In case of skin complaints its comparison can be done with medicines Rhus Tox and Fagopyrum

It can be compared with medicines Hepar Sulph, Argentum Nitricum and Nitric Acid in throat complaints.

 

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Ranunculus Bulbosus: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

Ranunculus Bulbosus is prepared from the plant buttercup. It belongs to the family Ranunculaceae. The whole plant is used to extract the medicine which undergoes potentization (the process of preparing homeopathic medicines that extract and intensifies the medicinal properties from a crude substance) to obtain medicine Ranunculus Bulbosus. This medicine proves to be very effective in managing pain in the shoulder blade, intercostal pain (pain in the area between two ribs), and certain skin complaints especially herpes zoster also known as shingles.

Drug Action

The most well-known action of this medicine is on the skin, chest wall, ribs, and upper back mainly to manage shoulder blade pain. Other than this, it also acts well on the eyes.

Clinical Indications

Herpes zoster, intercostal pain, scapula pain, corns, pemphigus, eczema, ulcers, chest pain, pleurodynia, pleurisy, day blindness

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Skin Complaints (Herpes Zoster, Corns, Pemphigus, Eczema, Ulcers)

Ranunculus Bulbosus is a highly recommended medicine for treating various skin diseases. It is a renowned homeopathic medicine for treating herpes zoster. Herpes zoster is a viral infection caused by varicella zoster virus resulting in a painful skin rash. It has given great clinical improvements in cases of herpes zoster. This medicine is used when there occurs bluish or bluish-black colored vesicle (fluid-filled bump) on the skin. Intense itching is also felt along with burning sensation. Sharp-stitching pain is another characteristic symptom. Furthermore, an important use of this medicine is seen in treating cases of corn on the skin.

Corn refers to a thick, hard skin area caused by excessive friction and pressure on the skin, especially on the feet. The guiding feature for its use is smarting and burning pain upon touching it. Another complaint in which it is found to be highly effective is pemphigus (a skin disorder in which there occurs a blister or pus-filled bump on the skin or mucous membrane in the body). It is well-indicated when there appear large blisters. These secrete foul-smelling sticky matter. These burst and leave raw surfaces. It can be given in cases of eczema. Here, it is well indicated when there is a formation of fluid-filled eruptions (vesicles) that itch and burn accompanied by skin thickening and the formation of hard scabs.  Lastly, it can be used in cases of skin ulcers. The indicative feature to use it in ulcers are flat ulcers with stinging, burning, and discharge of watery matter or pus.

Pemphigus

Pemphigus

Key Indicating Features

Herpes zoster with bluish or bluish-black colored vesicles with intense itching and burning

Corns with smarting and burning pain on touching

Pemphigus with large blisters that ooze foul-smelling sticky matter

2. Chest Complaints (Intercostal Pain, Chest Pain, Pleurodynia, Pleurisy)

Ranunculus Bulbosus has a remarkable action on the chest. The main indication for its use is pain in the intercostal spaces (which means pain in the space between any of the two ribs in the chest). The pain gets worse from movement and touch. It is best suited when there is intercostal neuralgia — pain in between ribs that arise from the involvement of intercostal nerves. It is indicated in order to manage pain in the chest wall. The pain is sharp, cutting, or stitching in nature. It is specifically indicated when this pain is of nerve, muscle or joint origin. The pain in the chest gets worse on movement and on inhalation where this medicine is required. Its use is also indicated in cases of pleurodynia.

Pleurodynia is a viral infection causing flu-like symptoms accompanied by chest pain. It is useful in cases of pleurisy (inflamed pleura means tissue lining outside of lungs and inner chest wall). Lastly, it proves beneficial for managing pain behind the sternum accompanied by soreness and bruised sensation.

Key Indicating Features

Intercostal neuralgia or pain (means pain in space between any of the two ribs in the chest)

Sharp, cutting, or stitching pain in the chest wall which gets worse on movement and on inspiration

Pain behind sternum attended with soreness and bruised sensation

3. Back (Shoulder Blade Pain)

The most important action of this medicine is seen on the back. Its use is mostly recommended to manage pain in the upper back. The characteristic feature for its use is muscle pain felt along the lower margins of the shoulder blade /scapula (which means triangular bone that lies in the upper back one on either side). The pain gets worse due to overuse of arms while writing, typing, playing piano, etc. The burning sensation is usually felt. It is also of great clinical significance to treat stitching pain in scapula or in between the scapulae. Its use is also considered when the neck muscles are contracted. Lastly, it is useful to manage pain in right side of the lower back felt while walking.

Key indicating features

Muscle pain along the lower margins of the shoulder blade

Stitching nature of pain in scapula or in between the scapulae

4. Eye Problems (Herpes, Day Blindness)

Herpes eruptions on the cornea

Herpes eruptions on the cornea

Ranunculus Bulbosus serves best to manage herpes eruptions that form on the cornea. It is accompanied by marked eye pain, watering of the eye, and bright light sensitivity (photophobia). The second indication for its use is pain over the right side of the eye that is relieved upon standing and walking. It is useful in case there is a smarting sensation and feeling of pressure in the eyeballs. Besides these, it is indicated for the management of cases of day blindness (impaired vision in day time while preserved vision at night time). Those who need it for day blindness feel a mist before their eyes in day time along with smarting and pressure in the eyes.

Key Indicating Features

Herpes eruptions on the cornea with marked pain, eye-watering, and bright light sensitivity

Day blindness with a sensation of mist before the eyes and smarting pain and pressure in the eyes

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse in damp cold rainy weather, upon movement of arms, standing, touch, after eating, in stormy weather,  open air, change of weather, from alcohol intake, from fright and anger.

Relieving factors: Complaints get better as one sits in a forward bending position.

Dosage

This medicine can be used in both low and high potency. The potency and repetition of this medicine vary on a case-to-case basis. As a general rule, the low potencies can be taken frequently but high potencies should not be repeated often.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Bryonia, Camphor, and Pulsatilla

Followed well by Bryonia, Ignatia, Kali Carb, Nux Vomica, Rhus Tox, Sepia, and Sabadilla

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Top 7 Homeopathic Remedies for Skin Rashes

A skin rash can be described as any change in the skin that can impact its color, texture, or look. A rash can result in itching, chapping, blistering, and swelling, apart from color change, which may or may not be accompanied by pain. A skin rash may either be localized or it may spread to the entire body. Not only discomfort or pain, but a skin rash may also lower your self-esteem if it affects your looks. Some skin rashes disappear on their own, like the heat rash and swimmer’s itch, while there are others, such as rosacea and shingles, that call for medical intervention.

homeopathic remedies for skin rashes

Homeopathy provides a very safe and reliable treatment in cases of skin rashes. Homeopathic medicines work most naturally to heal the skin rash and associated eruptions present with it. Besides, it brings magnificent relief in its attending symptoms like itching, burning, stinging, pain, and tenderness felt in the eruptions. In conventional mode, usually ointments, creams, anti-inflammatory and steroidal medications are being used for skin rashes cases. They give temporary relief by suppressing the condition and have side effects from prolonged use.  On the other hand, homeopathic remedies for skin rashes are comparatively safe since they have practically no side effects and carry no chance of suppressing something which is very crucial for patients suffering from rashes.

Effective for acute and chronic skin rash

Homeopathy works equally well in acute as well as chronic skin rashes. In acute cases, it aids prompt relief and cure. In chronic cases, initially, it relieves the rash and its symptoms. Once this gets controlled, it starts working towards reducing the frequency and intensity of future outbreaks of the rash gradually till the chronicity of the condition is eradicated from its root.

Homeopathy treats root cause

As the skin rash can stem from various causes, so homeopathy aims to target that root cause in every case to achieve complete recovery and cure. Just providing relief in signs and symptoms of skin rash can never be sufficient for cure. To obtain a cure, treating the root cause is the only way out because till the time the root cause is lurking behind, the skin rash always has a high chance to relapse again and again. Here, homeopathy is the best treatment option to get to the root cause of skin rash and get a cure.

Natural Medicines

Due to the use of natural medicines in homeopathy, there are no side effects of these medicines. Such medicines are free from all kinds of harsh chemicals and toxins. This makes them act very mildly and gently to treat skin rash most harmlessly and naturally.

No-ointment use prevents suppression

Homeopathy is against the use of ointments and other topical applications. This is because it leads to suppression of the skin complaint. As a result, this skin issue may appear again and there are also chances that the problem manifests itself in some other important internal body organs like lungs, heart, and kidneys as its expression on the skin is hindered. To prevent this critical condition, homeopathy never uses topical applications for skin problems. It heals with internal medicines taken orally through the mouth. These medicines focus on correcting the internal disturbance in the human body which is predisposing it to a skin problem. Additionally, it boosts the body’s self-healing mechanism to overcome skin complaints naturally on its own.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Skin Rashes

Some of the leading remedies to treat skin rashes are Sulphur, Apis Mellifica, Belladonna, Graphites, Petroleum, Natrum Mur and Arsenic Album.

1. Sulphur – For Itchy Skin Rash

Sulphur is the best medicine to treat skin rash attended with itching. There may or may not be any eruptions on the skin. The itching may get worse at night, disturbing sleep. On scratching, a burning sensation is felt in the affected area which later starts paining. Bleeding may start from the areas scratched. In some cases, the sensation of an insect crawling (formication) may be felt. Stitching or prickling sensation may occur too.

When to use Sulphur?

This medicine is highly recommended for cases of skin rash that are very itchy. It helps to control itching and heal the skin rash.

How to use Sulphur?

It works well in both low and high potencies. Initially, it is advised to take it in 30 C potency. In mild cases, Sulphur 30C can be taken once or twice a week but when the severity of the complaint is high, Sulphur 30C can be taken once a day. Do not self-medicate with higher potencies.

2. Apis Mellifica – For Rash With Stinging Burning Pains

This medicine is very effective for rash accompanied with stinging burning pain. The rash is red, itchy, and sore (sensitive to touch). Itchiness may get better in the open air. It is a leading medicine for rash in case of hives (raised bumps in the affected area). It is also prominently indicated for a rash in case of a bee sting, insect bites, heat rash or allergic dermatitis. 

When to use Apis Mellifica?

Apis Mellifica is the best medicine for rash attended with stinging burning pain.

How to use Apis Mellifica?

The recommended dose of this medicine is Apis Mellifica 30 C once or twice a day depending on the intensity of the pain.

3. Belladonna – For Red Rash With Marked Heat

It is a natural medicine highly recommended for cases of red-colored rash attended with intense heat. The affected area is sensitive to touch. The rash may be localized or spread across the body in cases needing this medicine. It is well-indicated for cases of acne rosacea, dermatitis, and measles.

When to use Belladonna?

This medicine can be used in cases of red rash with marked heat and sensitivity to touch.

How to use Belladonna?

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. In the beginning of the treatment, it is best to use its 30C potency two to three times a day. To switch to high potencies, consider a homeopathic doctor’s advice.

4. Graphites – For Skin Rash With Blisters Oozing Sticky Fluid

Graphites is very helpful for skin rash when attended with the formation of blisters (fluid-filled bumps). Itching and burning may occur in blisters that discharge sticky fluid. Heat increases the eruptions. In most cases needing it the rash is present in skin folds like the bend of elbow, back of the knee, behind ears, groin, and neck. It is the best choice of medicine for cases of eczema.

When to use Graphites?

This medicine is apt for skin rash with blister formation and oozing of sticky fluid.

How to use Graphites?

This medicine is usually recommended in 3X potency. Graphites 3X (1 or 2 tablets) can be taken once or twice a day depending on the intensity of the complaint.

5. Petroleum – For Rough, Dry Skin Rash With Cracks On Skin

It is highly recommended for skin rash which is rough and dry. It may be attended with deep cracks that may bleed. The skin rash gets worse in winter in most cases needing it. It is highly preferred when there is an extremely dry skin rash in people suffering from eczema and psoriasis.

When to use Petroleum?

This medicine is used to treat dry rough skin often with cracks that bleed. Winter aggravation of complaint is frequently noted where this medicine is required.

How to use Petroleum?

It can be used in 30 C potency once or twice a day.

6. Natrum Mur – For Rash With Fluid-Filled Eruptions

It is an important medicine when there are fluid-filled eruptions (vesicles / blisters) along with skin rash. Its use can be considered in different kind of skin rashes. Firstly, it can be used in cases of herpes zoster (skin rash with painful blisters caused by varicella zoster virus) and fever blisters (fluid-filled sores around the mouth and lips caused by herpes simplex virus). In these conditions rash occurs with bumps that contain watery fluid. Though given mainly for rash with fluid filled bumps, it is also suggested for cases of eczema with red, raw inflamed skin especially on edges of hair. Besides it can be used for sunburn, and  hives with large red rash with marked itching which gets worse by exertion.

When to use Natrum Mur?

Natrum Mur is the most suitable medicine for skin rash with fluid-filled bumps.

How to use Natrum Mur?

Natrum Mur works most effectively in 6X potency. Natrum Mur 6X can be taken two to three times a day at a minimum three-hour gap.

7. Arsenic Album – For Rash Covered With Scales/Flakes

Its use is suggested for cases of skin rash covered with scales/flakes. In cases needing it, there occurs a dry, rough skin rash with scaling. Itching and burning are marked on the rash. Its use can be done in scaly skin conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, etc.

When to use Arsenic Album?

Its use can be considered in cases of skin rash covered with scales or flakes.

How to use Arsenic Album?

Most commonly it is used in 30 C potency that can be administered once a day initially. If there is no improvement, consult a homeopath to increase the dose or potency.

Causes of Skin Rashes

The factors for skin rashes are as wide-ranging as the kinds of rashes themselves. Some of the common causes are as follows:

1. Dermatitis (skin inflammation): It is further of two types –contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis.

Contact dermatitis –  It is a common cause of skin rash that refers to an allergic reaction on the skin when it comes in contact with an allergen, like chemicals in cosmetics, soaps, detergents or dyes in clothing, alcohol-based lotions and elastic rubber products.

Atopic dermatitis – Commonly seen in persons having other allergies and asthma, a skin rash appears which is red, dry, and itchy.

2. Use of certain medicines: A skin rash may appear either as a side effect or an allergic reaction to medicines. Some examples include antibiotics, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflamatory drugs), anti-seizure drugs.

3. Infections

Fungal infections:  ringworm, candida infection

Viral infections: Herpes Zoster/shingles which is a painful blistered skin condition caused by varicella zoster virus

4.  Hives: Itchy, raised bumps (wheals) on skin usually caused by an allergic reaction

5. Seborrheic dermatitis: Red, inflamed skin covered by flakes or scales majorly on the scalp but may also involve areas like eyelashes, eyebrows, area behind ears

6. Scabies: Highly contagious skin condition caused by mite Sarcoptes Scabiei

7. Psoriasis: An autoimmune skin disorder in which red inflamed patches appear on the skin covered with silvery-white scales

8. Acne rosacea: Skin condition characterized by redness, flushing of the face and small pus-filled bumps

9. Food allergy: Eating certain specific foods like eggs, peanuts, milk, fish may trigger a skin rash.

10. SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus): An autoimmune disease that causes joint pain, rash, fever, severe fatigue and organ damage

11. Heat rash (prickly heat): It causes tiny bumps on the skin caused from trapped sweat on the skin

12. Stings and insect bites

13. Cellulitis: Serious bacterial infection in the deep layers of the skin

14. Certain kinds of fever: typhoid fever, dengue fever

In children, some reasons for skin rashes are as follows:

1. Diaper rash: A skin rash on the baby’s bottom in the diaper area

2. Chickenpox: A viral infection caused by Varicella Zoster virus that leads to a rash with fluid-filled blisters on the skin

3. Measles: A viral infection caused by a virus of Paramyxovirus family leading to widespread skin rashes

4. Hand foot and mouth disease: It is a viral infection occurring in young children resulting in rashes on hands and feet along with sores in the mouth.

5. Impetigo: A superficial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus bacteria.

What Other Signs And Symptoms Attend Skin Rash?

A rash may be attended with itching and burning. It may be painful and sensitive to touch. Sometimes a stinging, prickling sensation is felt in the rash. The skin can be dry, rough and cracked. Sometimes blisters are present on the rash that ooze fluid. At times, bleeding may occur from the rash upon scratching. In some of the rashes, scales/flakes are present on the surface.

 

 

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Zincum Metallicum: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

The remedy Zincum Metallicum is derived from metal zinc which undergoes potentization. With this process, zinc is converted into a very important homeopathic medicine Zincum Metallicum. Potentization is a process of preparing homeopathic medicines by arousing the medicinal properties of a crude substance.

This medicine is highly recommended to treat various complaints related to nerves mainly tremors, twitchings, nerve pain and nerve weakness.

The ‘Zincum Metallicum’ Constitution

This medicine is highly suitable for persons suffering from nerve-related complaints like tremors, twitching, numbness, etc

Drug Action

Zincum Metallicum has marked and widespread action on the brain, nervous system and nerves. Other areas of its action include mind, neck, back, spine, face, head, eyes, female genitals and skin. Zincum Metallicum manages mental issues arising from suppressed eruptions, suppressed discharges, and head injury.

Clinical Indications

Tremors, twitching, brain fag, chorea, convulsions, epilepsy, nerve weakness, neuralgias, Parkinson’s Disease, restless leg syndrome, meningitis, ataxia, formication, fatigue, back pain, neck pain, spinal irritation, spine disorders, trigeminal neuralgia, squinting, ptosis, pterygium, conjunctivitis, suppressed eruptions, varicose veins, somnambulism

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Complaints related to nerves and brain (tremors, twitching, brain fag, chorea, convulsions, neuralgias, Parkinson’s disease, restless leg syndrome, meningitis, ataxia)

Zincum Metallicum is a great nerve remedy. Among various areas of its action the most important action is on brain, nervous system and nerves. It proves highly effective in treating numerous nerve issues.

Firstly, it acts wonderfully to manage trembling of hands and feet. It works well when hand trembling occurs at rest or while writing. Trembling of feet may result in frequent stumbling, sometimes all the limbs may tremble. There may be trembling from the slightest emotional excitement. There may be worsening of symptoms of trembling of hands and feet during menses.

Zincum Met is one of the top grade medicines to manage Parkinson’s Disease. It is a nervous system disorder beginning with tremors in hands at rest which is followed by other issues like slow movements, impaired posture, balance issues, muscle stiffness and changes in speech.

This medicine is very beneficial for managing muscle twitchings (involuntary muscle contraction). It offers help in cases of twitching of facial muscles, eyelids and muscles of the upper lip, especially on left side.

Another main use of Zincum Met is to relieve nerve pain (neuralgia). It can be used for medical conditions like facial/trigeminal neuralgia, intercostal neuralgia and post-herpetic neuralgia.

Trigeminal neuralgia refers to intense excruciating pain in the face resulting from compression, damage or injury to trigeminal nerve. Persons needing it for this complaint have worsening facial pain from touch and in the evening time.

Intercostal neuralgia is nerve pain in the area just under the ribs, Zincum Met relieves pain mostly on the left side, especially when movement and tiredness make it worse.

Post herpetic neuralgia is a complication of shingles (viral infection causing painful skin rash caused by varicella zoster virus) in which burning pain persists for a long time after the rash has healed.

Its use is recommended for chorea cases also. Chorea refers to repetitive, rapid involuntary muscle movement, here the main symptom to use it is chorea caused by fright or suppressed eruptions. The jerking occurs in the whole body during sleep, at times accompanied by screaming.

Other than these, Zincum Met gives superb results in restless leg syndrome (RLS) which is a condition in which there is uncontrollable urge to move legs due to some uncomfortable sensation in legs.

People who experience formication (sensation of insects crawling under the skin) on feet and legs may also find this medicine helpful. It gets better by applying pressure and rubbing in cases needing this remedy.

It is a valuable medicine for managing locomotor ataxia cases. In ataxia, there is lack of muscle control and coordination of muscle movement. A person has stumbling gait, sometimes there may be lightening like pain in ataxia cases with sweaty feet.

Zincum Met is a leading medicine in homeopathy for managing brain and nerve fatigue (tiredness). Brain fatigue due to excessive and prolonged studying sessions can be managed with this medicine in a very effective manner. It also has great capability in helping cases of brain fag which is a set of symptoms including loss of concentration, memory problems, confusion of mind and sleep-related problems.

Its use is considered in meningitis (inflammation of meninges – membranes covering brain and spinal cord) attended with sharp pain in head.

Lastly, it can be used for managing convulsions (fits), mainly the ones that occur during dentition. There is twitching of shingle muscle, rolling of eyes, and gnashing of teeth. Another very prominent indication is convulsion after childbirth and from suppressed eruptions.

Key Indicating Features

Trembling of hands and feet

Parkinson’s disease

Twitching of facial muscles, eyelids and muscle of upper lip on left side

Neuralgia – trigeminal neuralgia, intercostal neuralgia and post herpetic neuralgia

Jerking in whole body during sleep, at times with screaming

Restless Leg syndrome (RLS)

Formication on feet which gets better from pressure and rubbing

2. Neck And Back (Pain, Stiffness, Burning In Spine)

It shows effective action on neck, back and spine. It is well indicated to manage pain and stiffness in neck. The pain can be cramping or tearing in nature. One feel tired feels tired as pressure is mostly felt on the neck after mental exertion and from writing. There is marked pain in the neck muscles at night. Pain from the side of the neck may extend to the shoulders. Zincum Met gives excellent results in cases of lower back pain which gets worse while sitting, stooping or turning in the bed. Lower back feels weak on standing for too long but gets better from continuous walking. A very important symptom is burning sensation along the spine which gets worse on sitting.

Key Indicating Features

Pain, stiffness, tiredness in neck

Lower back pain worse when sitting, from stooping, turning in bed and better from continuous walking

Burning sensation along the entire spine worse when sitting

Sensitive spine that cannot bear touch

3. Face (Twitching And Trigeminal Neuralgia)

Zincum Met can treat twitching in the face and trigeminal neuralgia. Twitching means involuntary jerking or contraction of muscle. Along with facial twitching, there may occur nausea and vomiting. In case of trigeminal neuralgia, it can be used when the complaint gets worse in the evening. The face is sensitive to touch and sometimes stitching pain is felt as from needles piercing the face.

Key Indicating Features

Twitching of facial muscles

Trigeminal neuralgia worse in evening and from touch

4. Head And Scalp (Manage Headache, Head Injury, Hydrocephalus And Hair Fall)

This medicine successfully manages headache, head injury, hydrocephalus and hair fall. The foremost indication for its use is headache occurring from drinking wine even in very small quantity. Pain in the head is attended with low vision. There is aching in temples of head with pressive pain on top of head and root of nose. Violent throbbing and tearing pain is felt in the whole head. Zincum Met is also recommended in cases of head injury followed by constant pain in the head which gets worse on walking. Another complaint where it is useful for management is hydrocephalus (fluid build-up in the ventricles of brain). Here its use is suggested when the person shows symptoms like rolling his head from side to side in pain, presses head against the pillow to get relief, there is constant motion of his feet and keeps grinding his teeth. Lastly, it works well to reduce in hair fall cases particularly when hair fall occurs from top of the head. It is attended with soreness of the scalp.

Key Indicating Features

Headache occurring from drinking wine even in very small quantity

Head injury followed by constant pain in head worse from walking

Hydrocephalus with symptoms like rolling of head from side to side, boring head in pillow, constant motion of feet and teeth grinding

5. Eyes (Twitching, Squinting, Ptosis, Pterygium, Conjunctivitis)

The major indication for its use is twitching of eyelid specifically lower eyelid on left side. It is also recommended in cases of squinting and ptosis (drooping of upper eyelid). Further use is indicated to treat pterygium cases attended with itching, smarting and excessive eye watering (lachrymation). Pterygium refers to abnormal tissue growth on the conjunctiva. Lastly, it is helpful in treating conjunctivitis (inflammation of the membrane covering eyelid and eyeball) with redness and pain which worsens at night.

Key Indicating Features

Twitching of eyelid specifically lower eyelid on left side

Ptosis (drooping of upper eyelid)

6. Female Problems (Heavy Menses, Vaginal Discharge, Ovarian Pain, Nymphomania, Hair Fall)

Females may find this medicine quite useful for managing certain complaints. It is firstly indicated for early, and heavy menses with the flow increasing while walking. It is attended with pain and bloated abdomen. Secondly it is useful for vaginal discharge that is blood-stained after menses attended with burning and itching. It can help cases of ovarian pain, mainly in the left ovary. During ovarian pain, there occurs pain in the limbs with an urge to move them constantly. A very significant symptom is relief in ovarian pain from excessive menstrual flow. Zincum Met is well-indicated to control excessive sexual desire in women (nymphomania). It also helps to manage hair fall from genitals of females.

Key Indicating Features

Early, heavy menses with pain and bloated abdomen

Blood-stained vaginal discharge after menses attended with burning and itching

Ovarian pain which gets better from excessive menstrual bleeding

7. Sleep Issues (Jerking, Disturbed Sleep, Sleepwalking)

Certain sleep issues can be magnificently managed with this remedy. It is a well indicated medicine for jerking during sleep, cries out and wakes frightened and startled from sleep. Loud screaming occurs during sleep. It can be given for disturbed sleep from cramps in legs, and headache. Lastly, it is indicated for treating sleepwalking (somnambulism) following suppressed eruptions.

Key Indicating Features

Jerking and waking up frightened from sleep

Disturbed sleep from cramps in legs and headache

Sleepwalking following suppressed eruptions

8. Skin Complaints (Suppressed Eruptions, Itching, Varicose Veins)

Lastly it acts well on the skin. A very well-known action of this medicine is to help complaints caused from suppressed eruptions (e.g. nerve-related complaints like chorea, convulsions, etc). It helps treat varicose veins (enlarged, dilated, twisted veins) on legs and varicose veins of genital organs. It can be given in cases of eczema of hands. In cases of itching in the hollow of knees, this medicine tends to works wonderfully to relieve it.

Key Indicating Features

Complaints arising from suppressed eruptions

Large varicose veins on legs and varicose veins of genital organs

Itching in hollow of knees

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from exhaustion, suppressed discharges or eruptions, noise, taking wine, consuming milk, and after eating

Relieving factors: Complaints get better by discharge, movement, appearance of eruptions, rubbing, scratching and from hard pressure

Dosage

It can be used in both low and high potencies. It can be repeated frequently in low potency but taking high potencies frequently are inadvisable.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Hepar Sulph, Ignatia and Camphor

It antidotes: Baryta Carb

Followed well by: Sepia, Pulsatilla, Ignatia and Sulphur

It follows well: Apis Mellifica and Belladonna

 

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Get Rid of Itching with These Top 7 Natural Homeopathic Medicines

Itching, medically termed as pruritis, is an irritating, unpleasant sensation on the skin that makes a person rub or scratch it. Itching can affect some specific body parts (localized itching) or it may be widespread over the body (generalized itching). Itching can occur without any eruptions or, there may be a rash or eruption. The skin may become rough, dry, cracked, or leathery and may look red. Following scratching, bleeding spots appear on the skin. With intense scratching, the chances of skin injuries and infection also increase.

There is great scope in homeopathy to treat cases of itching that arises from various reasons. Itching, both recent or chronic in nature, respond well to homeopathic treatment. The main advantage of using homeopathic medicines for itching is that these are natural and safe medicines with zero side effects. Along with itching, they help to relieve associated complaints like burning, stinging sensation, dryness, roughness, cracks and also heal any eruptions if present.

Homeopathic treatment is non-suppressive

Homeopathy offers non-suppressive treatment for itching. It provides long-term relief followed by cure if proper course of homeopathic treatment is followed. Itching on the skin may be due to different reasons, homeopathic remedies by way of addressing the root cause behind itching to lead to cure in these cases. The conventional treatment treats itching with the use of ointments. Though these act quickly to relieve itching, it offers short-term relief by way of suppression. Suppression is not cure. Once itching is suppressed, it may recur again as the cause may be left untreated. So, here homeopathy can be a great alternative treatment option to prevent suppression in any way. Homeopathy does not act superficially but gets deep into treatment of underlying cause to give a cure.

 Homeopathy prescribes as per law of individualization

Homeopathic prescription is done following the principle of individualization. There are numerous homeopathic medicines for treating itching and in every individual case the characteristic symptoms are studied in detail to finalise homeopathic prescription. These individually selected medicines work magnificently in relieving itching on the skin.

Homeopathy suits all age groups

Itching can affect persons of any age group and homeopathic medicines are suitable for people of all age groups. Only the potency and dosage varies according to the age of the individual. Homeopathic medicines boost the body’s self-healing system to promote natural recovery.

Acts gently with no side effects

Homeopathic medicines are devoid of any toxins and chemicals. These are prepared from natural sources hence are very safe to use and have no side effects at all. These treat in a very mild, gentle and most harmless manner to offer great cures.

homeopathic medicine itching

Natural homeopathic medicines for itching

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines For Itching

The homeopathic medicines that are used most frequently to treat skin itching are Sulphur, Graphites, Arsenic Album, Psorinum, Apis Mellifica, Fagopyrum and Dolichos.

1. Sulphur – Top-Grade Medicine To Treat Itching

Sulphur leads the list of homeopathic medicines to treat cases of skin itching. This medicine is highly suitable for itching on skin either with or without eruptions. The skin is dry and scaly. Eruptions may include pimples or pustules. Itching may keep shifting from one area to another. In most cases needing it, itching worsens at night disturbing sleep. It is aggravated by the warmth of the bed. Itching may get worse from washing and also in damp weather. On scratching, a burning sensation is felt and intense scratching may cause bleeding spots. The affected areas on the skin may be sore and painful. Pain may remain for a long time after scratching. Stitching and pricking sensation in the skin is also marked.

When to use Sulphur?

Sulphur can be used as a first remedy in case of skin itching either with or without eruptions. It is recommended if the problem aggravates at night from the warmth of bed.

How to use Sulphur?

It is most commonly used in 30C potency. This medicine can be used in 30C potency once a day. Do not take it more than once in a day. If there is no relief, its higher potencies may be considered after consulting a homeopathic doctor.

2. Graphites – For Itching With Dry, Rough Skin

Graphites is a highly effective medicine to help cases of itching along with marked dryness and roughness of skinCracks on skin may also be present. Itching is intense and attended with burning. It is also the best medicine to deal with cases of itchy eruptions that ooze a sticky fluid. Graphites is also prominently indicated for managing cases of eczema with marked itching. It works well for controlling itching in dry eczema as well as wet eczema where watery, transparent sticky, gluey discharge is present.

When to use Graphites?

Someone who is experiencing itching along with dry rough skin can take this medicine for relief.

How to use Graphites?

This medicine is usually taken in 3X potency in tablet form. One to two tablets of Graphites 3X can be taken in the morning and in the evening as per the severity of itching. Some cases may need 30C potency, but it should be administered only after consulting a homeopathic doctor.

3. Arsenic Album – For Skin Itching and Burning

Arsenic Album is highly beneficial to manage itching and burning on the skin. The skin is dry and scratching causes pain. Cold tends to worsen the complaint. Skin may also be oversensitive. This medicine is also highly effective to treat psoriasis with rough patches on skin covered with scales attended with marked itching.

When to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine can be used to control skin itching along with burning sensation and also for itchy rough patches on skin covered with scales.

How to use Arsenic Album?

Though it can be used in different potencies like 30C, 200C, 1M, it is advised to begin with 30C potency once a day. If there is no relief, you may switch to higher potencies after taking a homeopath’s advice.

4. Psorinum – For Itching With Scratching Till Skin Bleeds

Psorinum is well indicated for cases in which itching is intense and the sufferer scratches skin till it bleeds. Small eruptions may also arise after rubbing the skin. Itching is worse when the body becomes warm and also during the night. The skin may be rough or greasy. It is also well indicated when there is itching in flexures of the body like elbow bend, back of knee, etc. Skin eruptions that get better in summer and worse in winter are also treated with Psorinum. It is used for various skin complaints including acne, eczema, psoriasis, scabies, herpetic eruptions, and hives.

When to use Psorinum?

This medicine can be used in cases where there is intense itching and the sufferer keeps scratching till it begins to bleed. It can also be given for itching particularly in bends of knee and elbow bend.

How to use Psorinum?

This medicine falls in the category of strong homeopathic medications, therefore, infrequent doses are suggested. The recommended potencies include 200C, 1M, and even higher potencies. Initially, 200 C potency is good to start with and it is advised to wait for about 10 to 15 days before repeating it. Do not take it more frequently without the physician’s advice.

5. Apis Mellifica – For Skin Itching With Stinging, Prickling Sensation

Apis Mellifica is a wonderful medicine to manage skin itching attended with a stinging, prickling sensation. The itching often becomes intolerable and leads to harsh rubbing. Rashes form on the skin and the skin is red and feels hot. Itching gets better in the open air. The skin feels sore and is sensitive to the slightest touch. Apis Mellifica is also an excellent medicine for hives (bumps on skin) attended with marked itching and stinging sensation. Apis Mellifica is also used to treat allergic dermatitis and prickly heat.

When to use Apis Mellifica?

Apis Mellifica can be used in cases where along with itching, the sufferer experiences stinging and prickling sensation.

How to use Apis Mellifica?

It can be used in low (30C) as well high potencies (like 200C, 1M). In 30C potency, it can be taken one to two times a day. Do not take higher potencies without the guidance of a homeopathic doctor.

6. Fagopyrum – For Itching In Elderly People

Fagopyrum is a natural treatment for managing itching in older adults. It gets worse from scratching. Bathing in cold water brings relief. Though itching can occur on any body part, it is worse on the arms, legs, hands, elbows, knees and hairy parts. Itching gets severe towards the evening.

When to use Fagopyrum?

This medicine should be considered to manage skin itching in elderly people especially when scratching worsens the itching.

How to use Fagopyrum?

To begin with, its 30C potency can be used once or twice a day.

7. Dolichos – For Itching Without Any Skin Eruptions / Rash

Dolichos is a very suitable medicine for cases in which skin itching occurs without any rash/eruptions. In cases requiring it, itching worsens at night. Burning sensation also attends. Like Fagopyrum, this medicine is also indicated to manage skin itching in elderly persons.

When to use Dolichos?

It should be the first choice of remedy for skin itching without any rash or eruptions.

How to use Dolichos?

Dolichos 30C can be taken once a day if itching is mild and for moderate intensity itching, it can be taken twice a day.

Causes Of Itching

Itching is a symptom of many health conditions. The causes are highly variable as summed below:

 A). Skin conditions

1. Dry skin: It mostly happens when there is dry air in the atmosphere, and also in winters. Along with skin dryness, cracks or scales appear on the skin.

2. Eczema/Atopic dermatitis: It is a very common condition especially in children in which inflammation of skin occurs along with dryness and itching. In some cases, eruptions (bumps) appear that may ooze fluid followed by crust formation and thickening of skin.

3. Scabies:It is a skin complaint caused by a mite, sarcoptes scabiei. A highly contagious disease, an extremely itchy skin rash appears on the skin that tends to worsen at night.

4. Fungal infections on skin: For example ringworm on skin

5. Psoriasis: It is an autoimmune skin condition characterized by inflammatory patches on skin covered with silvery-white scales. Itching may occur in these patches. At times a burning sensation can also attend.

6. Prickly heat: It is also called ‘heat rash’ in which small fluid-filled blisters form on the skin from trapped sweat. This rash is quite itchy along with pricking sensation, hence the name ‘prickly heat’.

7. Hives: A skin rash with raised bumps on the skin called wheals that usually arise from an allergic reaction. It is attended with itching and stinging sensation.

8. Lichen Planus: An autoimmune skin condition characterized by purple-colored bumps on skin that tend to be itchy.

9. Bacterial infections likefolliculitis (a skin condition in which hair follicles get inflamed from bacterial infection), impetigo (skin infection caused by bacteria mainly staphylococcus bacteria), etc.

B). Skin allergy

1. Contact dermatitis: Skin rash that arises from direct contact with substances like nickel in jewellery, hair dyes, detergents or from an allergic reaction to it.

2. Certain foods likemilk, eggs, peanuts, fish

3. Certain soaps, wool, cosmetics

C). Nerve-related disorders

1. Shingles: A painful rash with fluid-filled blisters caused by varicella zoster virus. It can be attended with itching, tingling, and burning sensation.

2. Multiple sclerosis: An autoimmune disorder in which our immune cells damage protective covering of nerves.

3. Nerve damage

D). Psychological causes

These include Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (a psychological disorder with constant repetitive thoughts in mind that leads to certain repetitive behavior), depression, and anxiety.

E). Systemic medical conditions

Itching can occur in some systemic medical conditions like thyroid disease, and diabetes; among these, there are a few serious ones too like kidney failure, liver disease, lymphoma (cancer of lymphatic system), multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells).

F). Use of some medicines

Certain medications, like drugs for high blood pressure, allopurinol for gout and narcotic painkillers may also cause itching.

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