Dr. Vikas Sharma MD, Author at Homeopathy at DrHomeo.com

Top 7 Natural Homeopathic Remedies for Dandruff

Dandruff is a common problem characterized by the shedding of flakes (dead skin cells) from the skin on the scalp. However, it is not confined to the head alone and can affect ears, eyebrows, sides of the nose, beard, mustache, and the hairy part of the chest. It can manifest itself on any part of the body which has hair follicles. Dandruff is often mistaken for dry scalp but it is more than that. When skin cells die, a certain amount of flaking is considered normal. Sometimes, there is a great amount of flaking that becomes chronic and is coupled with redness and irritation on the scalp.

Homeopathy offers a magnificent solution for cases of dandruff. It helps to clear the flakes from the scalp effectively and prevents further progression of the condition. Simultaneously, it helps to reduce any attending irritation, itching, redness, inflammation and hair fall.

The biggest advantage of using homeopathy for treating dandruff is that it provides a holistic approach to treating not only the symptoms but also the root cause of a disease or disorder, without any side effects. In the case of dandruff, homeopathic remedies can be customised to suit the specific requirements of a case.

Homeopathic medicines treat dandruff with oral medications. As dandruff does not arise from an external source so it does not recommend the use of any medicated shampoos, gels, or oils for use on the scalp. Rather it treats the condition with medicines taken orally that work internally on the underlying cause to give complete recovery and permanent solution. Medicated shampoos, gels, or oils are being recommended in mainstream medicine that give temporary results.

Homeopathic medicines for dandruff are safe, natural and powerful that treat dandruff from its base. These are used in highly diluted form that work in a very gentle manner to stimulate a self- healing process and aid natural riddance of dandruff.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines For Dandruff

The highly recommended homeopathic medicines for dandruff are Kali Sulph, Phosphorus, Natrum Mur, Thuja Occidentalis, Graphites, Calcarea Carb and Sulphur.

1. Kali Sulph – For Yellow, Scaly Dandruff

Kali Sulph is very effective on the scalp. It is one of the best medicines to help cases of dandruff with yellow flakes. In people requiring it, the flakes are moist and sticky, abundant in number. Not just dandruff, Kali Sulph is equally effective to treat several skin issues where scales are formed, for example psoriasis.

When to use Kali Sulph?

This medicine may be prescribed for dandruff with yellow sticky flakes on the scalp. It will help to clear off the flakes already present and check further tendency of formation of flakes.

How to use Kali Sulph?

Among its different potencies, it gives best results in 6X potency. One may take Kali Sulph 6X three to four times a day.

2. Phosphorous – For Dandruff With Itching And Falling Of Hair

This medicine is most effective in treating dandruff with itchy scalp and hair fall. Flakes are excessive and fall on shoulders in cases needing it. The itching gets worse from scratching; hair strands fall in bunches. Burning sensation and increased sweating on the scalp occurs in some cases.

When to use Phosphorus?

This medicine should be preferred in cases of dandruff with itching on scalp and hair loss.

How to use Phosphorus?

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

3. Natrum Mur – For White Flaky Dandruff

Natrum Mur proves the most beneficial to treat cases of white flaky dandruff. The scalp may be greasy and oily. It may be itchy too. Sometimes hair fall accompanies.

When to use Nat Mur?

Natrum Mur can be used in cases presenting with dandruff having white flakes.

How to use Nat Mur?

Natrum Mur works best in 6X potency that can be repeated three to four times a day.

4. Thuja Occidentalis – For White Scaly Dandruff With Itching and Dry Hair

Thuja Occidentalis sourced from plant Arbore Vitae is a natural medicine that works magnificently to treat dandruff. It gives excellent results when white scaly dandruff is visible, accompanied by scalp itching and dry hair. Scratching relieves itching; sometimes stinging sensation on scalp assists.

When to use Thuja Occidentalis?

This medicine is a good choice for cases having white scaly dandruff with itching and dry hair.

How to use Thuja Occidentalis?

This medicine is available in different potencies from low to high. Usually it is given in 30C once a day only. For using higher potencies, one should always seek a physician’s consultation.

5. Graphites – For Scaly Dandruff With Itching And Burning

Graphites is a very useful when along with dandruff, there is marked itching and burning on the scalp. Flakiness decreases post-washing but comes back again. Flakes may also be noted behind ears, on eyelid margins and moustache area.

When to use Graphites?

People who have intense itching and burning on the scalp from dandruff can use this medicine.

How to use Graphites?

This medicine is most widely used in 3X potency. In the beginning of the treatment, Graphites 3X one tablet once or twice a day is the suggested dose as per intensity of the complaint. Do not increase the number of tablets or repeat more than twice without seeking advice from a homeopathic physician.

6. Calcarea Carb – For Yellowish White Coloured Dandruff

Calcarea Carb is mainly indicated when there is yellowish white dandruff on the scalp. The scales can be thin or thick and can be dry or moist varying from case to case. Increased sweating on the scalp is a characteristic attending feature.

When to use Calcarea Carb?

Use of this medicine should be thought of in cases with yellowish white scales along with excessively sweaty scalp.

How to use Calcarea Carb?

Among its various potencies ranging from low to high, it is advised to start with 30C potency once a day. If no changes are noted, then high potencies can be used after consulting a homeopathic doctor.

7. Sulphur – For Dandruff With Dry Scalp

Use of Sulphur is considered in cases of dandruff with dry scalp. Persons needing it also complain of itching on the scalp. It is worse in the evening. On scratching, a burning sensation is felt on the scalp, which may be sore to touch.

When to use Sulphur?

Sulphur is usually given in cases of dandruff when the scalp is dry, itchy and if scratched, attended with a burning sensation.

How to use Sulphur?

Its use can be done in different potencies like 30C, 200C, 1M, but generally it is picked in 30C potency initially. In mild cases, Sulphur 30C can be taken twice a week. In moderate to severe cases, Sulphur 30C can be taken once daily. Do not self-medicate with its higher potencies.

Causes Of Dandruff

Some of the reasons and worsening factors behind dandruff include:

1. Oily skin: It is the major reason for dandruff in most cases. Skin oil is commonly known as sebum or sebaceous secretions.

2. Fungus named malassezia: It could be one of the many reasons. In some people, at times, their immune system gives an exaggerated response to this fungus (that normally lives on the scalp without troubling the person) leading to scaliness.

3. Excessive exposure to sunlight and dust.

4. Excessive sweating on the scalp may also contribute to it.

5 . The use of some hair care products (like shampoos, sprays, gels, oils) may also lead to it. This happens from an allergic reaction to chemicals in such products.

6. Persons who already have dandruff may see worsening of the problem, if they do not wash hair frequently because infrequent washing leads to accumulation of dead skin cells and formation of flakes.

7. Not brushing or combing the hair frequently causes dandruff to stay because brushing takes off dead skin cells.

8. Certain other skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis (an autoimmune skin disorder with inflamed patches on skin covered with silvery white scales) may be accompanied by dandruff.

9. Dandruff gets worse in cold, dry winter

10. Stress may also make dandruff worse

Who Is At Risk Of Dandruff?

Though dandruff can affect anyone, there are some factors that increases the risk of it as follows:

1. Male: Dandruff is more common in males as compared to females.

2. Age: Dandruff can occur at any age, but it usually affects puberty-aged people and young adults and is less common in elderly people over 50.

3. Weak immune system: People with weak immunity are also prone to suffer from this condition.

Signs and Symptoms of Dandruff

Some people are affected by it chronically (for long duration), while others may exhibit periodic patterns, with dandruff clearing up at intervals and then recurring, especially during winter months. The signs and symptoms are as follows:

1. Flakes on scalp: Flakes may fall off on shoulders, particularly noticeable on dark clothes, something that all anti-dandruff shampoo ads keep harping on.

The flakes may be white or yellow, small or large and dry or greasy. Sometimes, it resembles a dry flaky sheet on the scalp punctuated by areas of pinkish or reddish swollen skin in severe cases. Some people exhibit no symptoms on the scalp, but only flakes are visible.

2. Itching, burning or uncontrollable scratching may be an attending symptom. Dandruff can thus become a source of constant social embarrassment, especially when it is so severe that flaking shows on dark clothes or the person is left scratching the scalp every now and then.

3. Hair loss in some cases.

4. In babies less than one year of age, scaling or crusting on the scalp can occur medically known as cradle cap.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Burning In Eyes

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

Burning eyes means a burning sensation, irritation or stinging in the eyes.

It can be attended with other signs and symptoms depending on the cause behind it. These include itching in eyes, dry eyes, grittiness (feeling of some small particle like grain of sand in eyes), tears, red, sore eyes and discharge from the eyes. In some cases, nasal symptoms may also be present. These include runny nose, sneezing, nasal blockage and PND (post nasal discharge means dripping of mucus from posterior nares in the back of the throat).

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be very effective in managing complaint of burning in eyes. Homeopathic medicines gradually reduce the intensity of burning and also manage its attending symptoms. Such symptoms include itching in the eyes, dry eyes, eye discharge, tearing and red eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine for this complaint under supervision of a homeopathic physician. In case bleeding/ pus discharge from eyes attends or when there is severe eye pain, sensitivity to light, sudden changes in vision, double vision, light flashes, spots or floaters (liquid or gel-like liquid) in front of the eyes along with burning sensation in eyes, then it is strictly advised to take urgent help from conventional mode of treatment as these can indicate some serious causes related to the eyes.

Homeopathic Medicines For Burning Eyes

1. Euphrasia – Top-grade Medicine

It is a natural medicine prepared from a plant Euphrasia Officinalis, commonly known by the name of ‘eye – bright’. It is a prominent medicine for managing cases of burning in the eyes. In cases needing it, watering from the eyes attends burning. Other than this, a sensation of dust or sand in the eyes may be felt. In some cases, dryness in the eyes is present. Itching may accompany. Other than this, there may occur swelling of the eyelids. Along with this, there is itching, burning, redness in the margins of eyelids. Sometimes nasal symptoms attend. These include sneezing, runny nose and nasal irritation.

2. Belladonna – For Burning In Eyes And Redness

It is a natural medicine prepared from plant ‘deadly nightshade’. This medicine works well in cases having burning and marked redness in the eyes. Persons who need it also feel pricking in the eyes. Itching and dryness in the eyes attend it. Itching and burning is also felt in the eyelids. Sometimes hot tears from eyes can flow. It is a very effective medicine for cases of conjunctivitis.

3. Pulsatilla – For Burning Eyes And Discharge From Eyes

This medicine is prepared from a plant Pulsatilla Nigricans, commonly known as ‘wind flower’. This plant belongs to family ranunculaceae. It is a well-indicated medicine for cases presenting with burning eyes and thick yellow discharge from the eyes. Along with this, eye itching is marked. The itching leads to rubbing and scratching. A pressing sensation in the eyes can attend. There may be grittiness in the eyes. Dryness of eyes occurs along with the above symptoms. It gets worse in the evening. Other than this, there is redness and swelling on margins of eyelids. It is a well-indicated medicine for iritis and conjunctivitis cases.

4. Apis Mellifica – For Burning, Stinging In Eyes

It is a prominent medicine to manage burning and stinging in eyes. Stinging sensation is also felt in eyes. The conjunctiva looks bright red. Profuse flow of tears accompanies it. Eye itching and soreness is the next attending symptom. The eyelids may be swollen and puffy along with these symptoms.

5. Sulphur – For Burning And Sensation Of Sand In Eyes

Sulphur is a beneficial medicine for those having burning sensation and grittiness in eyes. There may be inflammation in eyes or eyelids. Pricking pain in the eyes is also a major complaint. Itching in the eyes is also felt with these symptoms. There is watering from the eyes in the morning which is followed by dryness.

6. Aconite – For Burning Eyes With Dryness

This medicine is prepared from plant Aconitum Napellus, commonly known as ‘monkshood’. It belongs to family ranunculaceae. It is helpful for cases in which there is burning in the eyes along with marked dryness. There is relief by throwing cold water on eyes. Redness in eyes and inflammation is also present. Dryness and burning is also felt in the eyelids where this medicine is required. Eyes are sensitive to air along with above symptoms.

7. Natrum Mur – For Burning And Itching In The Eyes

Use of this medicine is considered when there is burning and itching in the eyes. The burning sensation is most marked in the evening. Sometimes grittiness in eyes is felt in the morning. It is a well-indicated medicine for cases of blepahritis. In such cases, the eyelids are red, sore with burning sensation.

8. Arsenic Album – For Burning In Eyelid Margins

This medicine is indicated when burning sensation is present in the margins of eyelids. Along with this, there is soreness on internal surface of lids. The eyelids can be swollen. The edges of lids are painful if you move them. There is grittiness in eyes in the evening causing rubbing of eyes. Next, the inner eyelid margin may be red. Dryness can attend it.

9. Allium Cepa – For Eye Burning And Nasal Symptoms

Allium Cepa is a valuable medicine when there is burning in eyes. With this a biting and smarting sensation (feeling like pin -pricks) in eyes may be felt too. It feels as if there is smoke in front of the eyes, there is desire to intermittently rub the eyes. Other than this, the eyes are red and watery. Along with these, there occur nasal symptoms like runny nose and frequent sneezing.

10. Merc Sol – For Burning And Profuse Watering From Eyes

Merc Sol is an important medicine when there is burning in the eyes along with profuse watering from eyes. Biting and burning in eyes is mostly felt in open air. The eyelids are sensitive to cold, heat, touch in cases that need it. The eyelids may be inflamed, red, swollen and thick where Merc Sol is required.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

It can arise due to various reasons.

In many cases, it can occur due to environmental pollutants like dust, smoke, smog or from exposure to excessively cold or hot air. In some cases, it can arise from eye strain as after excessive screen time on computer or mobile. In such cases, additional symptoms that can arise include dry eyes or watery eyes, double vision, and sensitivity to light.

In other cases, it can occur from some medical reason as given below.

It firstly includes conjunctivitis, also known as ‘pink eye’. It means inflammation of the conjunctiva which is a thin clear layer that covers white part of the eye. It can occur from an infection that can be viral or bacterial or from an allergic reaction to pollen, chemicals, etc. In this condition, burning in the eyes can attend its other signs and symptoms that include redness of the eyes, discharge from eyes, itchy eyes, excessive tears and gritty sensation in eyes.

Second cause can be allergies. These can be triggered by exposure to allergens like dust, smoke, pollen, etc. Along with eye signs and symptoms like burning, itchy eyes, red eyes, watery discharge from eyes, it may be accompanied by nasal symptoms too. These nasal symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, PND, sore throat and coughing.

Next, it can arise in case of common cold and flu.

Burning in the eyes can also be due to dry eyes. It can arise from allergies, exposure to smoke, excessive screen time on computers, diabetes, use of certain medications (like anti-histamines, anti-depressants and some drugs used for treating high blood pressure) or from some types of arthritis. Dry eyes can occur either from decreased production of tears or from production of poor quality tears. In addition to burning eyes, it can cause light sensitivity, redness of the eyes, scratchy sensation in the eyes, mucus in and around the eyes.

Ocular rosacea can be also a cause. It refers to inflammation of the eyes affecting those having a skin condition called rosacea (rosacea affects the face which causes redness, flushed face with prominent blood vessels and pus-filled eruptions). In ocular rosacea, there is burning in the eyes along with other symptoms like itchy eyes, irritation in the eyes and eye redness.

Next reason is pterygium (a triangular-shaped tissue flap that grows on the conjunctiva of the eye)

Another cause is blepharitis (means inflammation of the eyelids). It can lead to burning in the eyes along with itching of eyelids, watery eyes, flakiness around eyes, light sensitivity and sticking of the eyelids.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines for Asthma

Asthma is a respiratory disease that causes narrowing and swelling of airways and may be attended with the production of extra mucus. It results in breathing difficulty, chest tightness, wheezing on exhalation, and coughing.

Homeopathy is a safe science that offers effective, natural treatment for asthma. Initially, it helps in a significant reduction in symptoms of asthma like breathing difficulty, chest tightness and congestion, cough, wheezing, and chest pain. It aids symptomatic relief by reducing the inflammation and narrowing of the airways. With further treatment, the frequency of asthma episodes gradually gets reduced. Simultaneously, homeopathic medicines focus on treating the underlying cause of origin, that is an overactive immune system and chronic allergic tendencies. Here Homeopathy optimises the immune system and treats allergic tendencies to cure asthma from its origin. In severe acute asthma episodes, one can use inhalers and other recommended conventional medicines. In chronic cases, homeopathic treatment is the best alternative and it causes a reduction in dependency on corticosteroids and bronchodilators which is thought to be lifelong and primary treatment protocol in mainstream medicine.

Safe and side effect-free medicines

Homeopathy has a great advantage of being side effect-free thus ensuring 100% surety of being safe to treat asthma. Homeopathic medicines are safe because they are procured from natural substances and do not contain any harmful chemicals. No immediate or long-term adverse effects are noted from the use of homeopathic medicines.

Homeopathy treats the patient

It is quite well known that ‘Homeopathy treats the patient and not the disease’. This means the medicines in homeopathy are selected as per the patient’s characteristic symptoms that appear at the mental and physical level, and not the disease symptoms. In other words, homeopathy treats as per individualization. Since no two persons are alike and have individual personalities, heredity and lifestyle, so the medicines differ from case to case. Homeopathic remedies selected as per individualization help eradicate asthma from its roots.

Offers cure rather than suppression of disease

There are no chances of suppression in homeopathy. We are quite familiar with the fact that if a condition is suppressed at any given time, then for the time being it becomes dormant and may express itself later on under certain favorable circumstances in a more harsh way. This suppression is completely avoided in the homeopathic treatment of asthma. Rather it follows an approach of cure by stimulating the self-healing system in the body using highly diluted natural medicines.

Non-habit forming

Homeopathic medicines are non-habit forming and do not create a lifelong dependency. One can easily stop their use, once the condition is treated to its maximum. The total treatment time for asthma in homeopathy varies from case to case as per various factors like the chronicity and intensity of complaint, and how quickly an individual responds to medicine.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines For Asthma

The leading homeopathic medicines to treat asthma are Arsenic Album, Spongia Tosta, Antimonium Tartaricum, Natrum Sulphuricum, Blatta Orientalis, Hepar Sulph, Ipecac and Lobelia Inflata.

1. Arsenic Album – Top-grade Medicine for Asthma

The symptoms indicative of use of Arsenic Album in asthma is shortness of breath that gets worse after coughing. The characteristic to use it is asthma that gets worse around 12 am-1 am. Other symptoms are wheezing and suffocative cough with frothy mucus. Another important guiding feature for using Arsenic Album is asthma which alternates with skin rash or eczema.

When to use Arsenic Album?

It is indicated for asthma with shortness of breath and suffocative attacks that get worse around midnight.

How to use Arsenic Album?

If the symptoms match, it can be administered in 30C potency, which can be repeated 2 times a day. If there is no improvement at all with low potency, then it is advisable to consult a homeopath before taking 200C or 1M potency.

2. Spongia Tosta – For Short, Panting Breathing With Dry Cough

Spongia Tosta works well for asthma with short and tough respiration, and panting. Along with difficult respiration, whistling from the chest on inhalation is noted. The cough is attended with extreme dryness of all the air passages. The cough, in this case, is deep, dry, barking, hacking type. In most cases, warm drinks bring relief from coughing.

When to use Spongia Tosta?

Difficult breathing with dry suffocative cough and extreme dryness of all air passages calls for indication of this remedy.

How to use Spongia Tosta?

It is best to start in 30C potency and can be taken once or twice a day. It can also be taken in high (200C) potency. But one should observe the symptoms before taking in high potency.

3. Antimonium Tartaricum – For Asthma With Shortness Of Breath And Rattling Cough

Antimonium Tartaricum is an excellent remedy for asthma with rapid, short and difficult breathing as if gasping for air. The suffocation worsens on lying down, with a need to sit up. The cough is loose, there is excessive rattling and the lungs feel full of mucus. Mucus from the lungs comes out with much difficulty. Sometimes there is dizziness present along with cough. It gets better by lying on the right side and worse from cold and damp weather.

When to use Antimonium Tart?

Its use can be considered when symptoms such as shortness of breath, suffocation with loose cough and excessive rattling of mucus is present.

How to Antimonium Tart?

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

4. Natrum Sulphuricum – For Asthma In Damp Weather

Natrum Sulphuricum is the most helpful medicine for difficult breathing in damp weather. The cough with thick, ropy, green phlegm is present. Natrum Sulphuricum also works well in humid conditions and when asthma worsens around 4 am and 5 am. Natrum Sulphuricum is also among the top-grade remedies for treating asthma in children.

When to use Natrum Sulphuricum?

It is helpful for humid asthma (difficult breathing during damp weather). Cough is marked with thick, ropy and greenish discharges.

How to use Natrum Sulphuricum?

It is commonly used in biochemic form in ‘6X potency’ and is taken in tablet form. The frequency and number of tablets depend on the severity of symptoms.

Unless recommended, it can be taken 3-4 times a day.

5. Blatta Orientalis – For Asthma Triggered by Dust Exposure

Blatta Orientalis remedy is for asthma triggered by dust. Blatta Orientalis is prescribed for shortness of breath, suffocative cough with difficult respiration and yellow, pus-like mucus. It can also be given for asthma triggered in rainy weather.

When to use Blatta Orientalis?

It is the perfect remedy for asthmatic symptoms triggered after dust exposure. Cough is suffocative with labored breathing.

How to use Blatta Orientalis?

Mother tincture is best to start with, which can be taken 1-2 times a day. But can be taken in 30C and 200C if there are not many changes. Usually, 1M potency is not recommended, until prescribed by an experienced physician.

6. Hepar Sulphur – For Asthma In Cold Air

Hepar sulphur acts wonderfully in asthma attacks, difficult respiration, whistling, wheezing, and preventing sleep at night with copious mucus expectoration. Yellow or whitish dirty mucus can also be present. Ailments get worse by cold air or slight draught of air and get better from covering up and heat/warmth.

When to use Hepar sulphur?

It is prescribed for cases of asthma which gets worse by exposure to dry, cold air. Cough is loose with yellow or whitish dirty mucus.

How to use sulphur?

Potency and dosage depend on age, causative factors and symptoms of the patient. In the majority of cases, it can be administered in 30C potency 3-4 times in a day.

7. Ipecac – For Difficult Breathing And Cough Ending In Vomiting

Ipecac is used to treat repeated attacks of asthma with difficult shortness of breath and gasping for air. There is a wheezing cough with mucus which is not easy to expel, though the chest seems to be full with an inclination to vomit.

When to use Ipecac?

It assists cases of asthma where shortness of breath along with wheezing and cough ending in vomiting is marked.

How to use Ipecac?

Chiefly, it works well in low potency i.e. 30C; normally repetition of dosage is limited to once to twice a day. Higher potencies are not recommended until discussed with a physician.

8. Lobelia Inflata – When asthma is triggered by exertion

This medicine is helpful for cases of worsening of asthma from exertion. There is difficulty in breathing with a constricted feeling in the middle of the chest and a lump in throat sensation where this medicine is required. With chest constriction, there is an urge for deep breathing. A characteristic feature that may be present is a prickling sensation on the entire body before an asthma attack.

When to use Lobelia Inflata?

Its use is well indicated when asthma gets triggered from exertion.

How to use Lobelia Inflata?

This medicine can be taken in 30C power once or twice daily.

What Are The Causes Of Asthma?

Allergies: Allergens such as pollen, animal dander, dust mites can raise risk of developing asthma.

Environmental factors: Exposure to substances like allergens, toxins, fumes can irritate the airways making the person prone to develop asthma.

Genetics: If there is a family history of asthma or allergic disease, the risk of developing asthma is more.

Previous infections: People may be more prone to acquiring this ailment if they have had a history of severe viral infections in infancy, such as respiratory syncytial viral infection (RSV)

Hygiene hypothesis: According to this notion, babies whose immune systems aren’t exposed to enough microorganisms during their early months and years won’t have the capacity to fend off asthma and other allergy disorders.

What Triggers Asthma Attacks?

It refers to the substances that irritate the airway and can bring on an asthma attack. Common triggers include:

1. Airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mite, pet dander or particles of cockroach waste

2. Respiratory infections, such as common cold

3. Physical activity, exercise

4. Cold air

5. Air pollutants and irritants, such as smoke

6. Certain medications like aspirin and beta blockers.

7. Anxiety and stress

8. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acids rise up into your throat

9. Cold and humid weather

What Are The Symptoms Of Asthma?

The symptoms of asthma vary from one individual to another. The person can have symptoms at certain times called infrequent asthma attacks or have symptoms all the time. The signs and symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, cough, and wheezing (a whistling sound produced during breathing when airways are narrowed or blocked). Other features include chest pain, trouble in talking, difficulty in sleeping, and anxiety. In cough variant asthma the only symptom is persistent dry cough without any mucus expectoration. Wheezing and shortness of breath are absent in such cases. This type of asthma is common in children.

Pathophysiology Of Asthma

In asthma, there is chronic inflammation of airways (bronchi and bronchioles). Airways are the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. In asthmatic persons, these airways are highly sensitive and respond strongly to inhaled substances such as allergens. This leads to bronchospasms (constriction of muscles around the airways), resulting in the narrowing of airways. As a result of the inflammation and bronchospasms, the airways get obstructed, leading to reduced airflow to the lungs.

Mucus production: During the attack, your body produces more mucus. This thick mucus clogs airways.

How to diagnose Asthma?

A doctor may suspect asthma from symptoms (like shortness of breath, difficult breathing, chest tightness, and cough) of the patient, checking the chest with a stethoscope to hear wheezing and a history of allergies in the patient or someone in the family. To diagnose it, the most important test recommended is spirometry. Spirometry is the best test to diagnose asthma and it measures the amount of air that is exhaled after a deep breath and at what speed and also the amount of air inhaled back in the lungs. In this test, the patient is asked to take a deep breath and then breathe out hard into a tube. This tube is attached to a machine named Spirometer that gives measurements of this test. The next test that may be advised is the peak flow meter test which evaluates how hard a person can breathe out with the use of a simple easy-to-use device. A low peak flow reading indicates that the lungs are not working well. Additionally, a chest X-ray is recommended to check for any problem like infection which may result in breathing difficulties or may trigger it.

Homeopathic Medicines To Get Rid Of Bad Taste In Mouth

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 11 Comments

A bad taste in the mouth is something that everyone experiences at some time or the other. It is temporary and tends to go away after brushing the teeth and cleaning the mouth. But in some cases, the bad taste in the mouth persists and doesn’t go away even after usual brushing and cleaning. In such cases, there may be some underlying cause that needs to be diagnosed and treated to get rid of this bad taste.

Every person experiencing it defines the bad taste differently. Some may say it is a metallic taste, while for some, it is a bitter taste, some others may describe it as foul, sour, salty or sweet taste.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic medicines for treating this complaint are prepared from naturally occurring substances, so are very safe to use without any side effects and aid gradual recovery. The most suitable medicine for every case of bad taste in mouth is selected individually based on the case details. So it is advised to take medicines under the guidance of a homeopathic physician after detailed case evaluation.

Homeopathic Medicines To Get Rid Of Bad Taste In Mouth

1. Merc Sol – Top-Grade Medicine

Merc Sol is a very effective medicine for managing bad taste in mouth. It works well when there is metallic, putrid, bitter, or sweetish taste in the mouth. Excessive salivation may be present with this. Next, there may be complaint of offensive breath. It is a well-indicated medicine for managing many conditions like gingivitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, thrush, tooth decay, dental cavities, etc. So the cases that require it may also have sore throat, inflamed tonsils, swollen gums, mouth sores/ ulcers.

2. Pulsatilla – For Bad Taste Mainly In Morning

It is a natural medicine prepared from a plant Pulsatilla Nigricans, commonly known as ‘wind flower’. This plant belongs to family ranunculaceae. It is indicated for cases in which there is bad taste in the morning time. With this the tongue may be coated white. Next, there can be loss of appetite and nausea. Mouth dryness may attend it. In some cases, bitter taste, sweetish taste or burnt taste in mouth is present. Other than this, there may sometimes be greasy taste in mouth.

3. Nux Vomica – For Sour Taste In Mouth

It is helpful when there is sour taste in mouth. It can occur after eating or drinking. It may also be present in the morning. There may be mouth dryness with this. In some cases, small ulcers may be present in the mouth and throat with putrid smell. Sour or bitter belchings, regurgitation of food and heartburn are some symptoms that can accompany.

4. Arsenic Album – For Bitter Taste

Use of this medicine is considered for cases of bitter taste in mouth. This is mostly felt after eating and drinking. Other than this, it is also used for unpleasant or woody taste in mouth. Lastly, it is useful for cases having sweetish taste in the throat.

5. Nux Moschata – For Bad Taste And Dry Mouth

This medicine is prepared from powdered seeds of plant nutmeg. It belongs to family myristicaceae. It is beneficial for those who have a bad taste in mouth and a dry mouth. They may have a foul taste, earthy, chalky or slimy taste in mouth. Sometimes bitter or sour taste is present too. The mouth and tongue are very dry. Dryness is so marked that the tongue sticks to the roof of the mouth. Saliva feels like cotton in the mouth. Next, there is white-coated tongue and bad smell from mouth.

6. Natrum Phos – For Acid Taste In Mouth And Acid Reflux

This medicine works well for cases having acid taste in mouth. It is one of the best medicines for managing acid reflux also. Those needing it frequently complain of heartburn, sour belchings, sour vomiting and heaviness in the stomach. Along with the above symptoms, there may be yellow creamy coating at the base of tongue.

7. Borax – For Bitter Taste, Mouth Sores And Oral Thrush

This medicine is valuable for managing bitter taste in mouth, mouth sores and oral thrush. The food tastes bitter to the persons who require it. Even the saliva may taste bitter. They can have sores in the mouth especially in the cheeks and on the tongue. These are painful and may bleed easily. The tongue may be cracked. It is a very suitable medicine for managing cases of oral thrush.

8. Natrum Carb – For Metallic Taste In Mouth

It is an important medicine to manage metallic taste in mouth. A constant dryness of mouth and lips can be present where it is required. There is marked burning sensation on the tip of tongue. Next, there can be redness and soreness in mouth with painful blisters.

9. Belladonna – For Putrid Taste In Mouth, Sore Throat, Tonsillitis

This medicine is prepared from plant commonly known as ‘deadly nightshade’. It belongs to family solanaceae. This medicine is recommended for managing putrid taste in mouth. In cases needing it, there may be sore throat or tonsillitis. The throat and tonsils are inflamed, red, shiny and painful where it is required. There is pain in the throat and tonsils along with this. Throat may feel dry. Sometimes cough can attend it.

10. Calcarea Carb – For Salty, Sour Taste

This medicine is indicated to manage salty and sour taste in mouth. Dryness in the mouth at night can be present. There may be heat in the mouth. Its use is also indicated for a taste like that of ink or iron in mouth. An unpleasant taste in mouth with cough is another indication.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

It can simply be arising from eating food having strong taste (for eg, garlic) or poor oral hygiene, but there are other reasons too including medical conditions.

Sometimes taking vitamins and supplements may bring metallic taste in the mouth. For example, calcium, iron, zinc and copper supplements.

Use of some medicines (like antihistamines, antidepressants, anti inflammatories, antibiotics) may cause metallic or bitter taste in the mouth.

Cancer treatment including chemotherapy and radiotherapy may also leave a bad taste in the mouth, including metallic and sour taste.

It can also occur in cases of dry mouth. Dry mouth is medically known as xerostomia that occurs from lack of saliva in the mouth. Saliva helps to decrease bacterial growth in the mouth and removes food particles from the mouth. In case of reduced saliva in the mouth, the bacteria overgrow and food bits may remain there leading to a bad taste in the mouth. Dry mouth can happen from various reasons like taking certain medications, advancing age and use of tobacco. But in some cases, it can arise from blocked nose leading to mouth breathing and some medical conditions like diabetes, nerve damage, and some auto-immune diseases.

There are other medical conditions that can lead to bad taste in the mouth.

First medical condition is dental problems. These include gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), tooth decay, dental cavities, infection, dental abscess (a pocket of pus that can occur at different regions of the tooth). In cases of dental issues, other symptoms that can occur are swelling/ redness of the gums, bleeding gums, bad breath and sensitive teeth.

Second medical condition is oral thrush (an infection in the mouth with fungus known a candida albicans). It is also known as oral candidiasis. It can cause bad taste in the mouth in addition to its other symptoms. Such symptoms include redness, soreness, pain in the mouth, burning sensation in the mouth, cotton like feeling in the mouth, white sores in the mouth mostly on the tongue and inner cheeks, slight bleeding from these sores, cracks at the corners of the mouth and difficulty in swallowing.

Third cause is acid reflux (a condition in which the stomach acid rises up into the food pipe back from the stomach and flows upwards). It can cause sour taste in mouth along with its other symptoms, like heartburn, nausea, vomiting, pain in upper abdomen, sore throat and cough.

Fourth reason is respiratory infections mainly viral infections. These include colds, tonsillitis (inflammation of tonsils that are the two oval shaped mass of lymphatic tissue present at the back of the throat one on each side), sinusitis (inflamed paranasal sinuses which are air filled spaces in skull). Along with bad taste, the other symptoms of these conditions include sore throat, nasal blockage, PND (post nasal drip), headache, facial pain.

Hepatitis B (a viral infection of liver) can also result in bitter taste in the mouth along with other symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, fever.

Next, it may occur from hormonal changes in women like during pregnancy and menopause.

Lastly, it may occur in some of the neurological conditions. For example, epilepsy (tendency to have recurrent seizures means fits), dementia (loss of memory and decline in thinking and other mental abilities), brain tumours.

FOOD ALLERGIES AND HOMEOPATHY

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 504 Comments

Ever heard of someone developing a life-threatening allergic reaction from something as small as a peanut? Someone suffering an asthma attack just after taking a spoonful of cooked mushrooms? Or a severe attack of migraine triggered by black pepper? These may sound strange, but true!

Food allergy is the reaction of the immune system that occurs immediately after eating a certain food. If one has food allergy, the immune system overreacts to a particular protein found in that food. Coming in contact with even a little amount of that particular food can trigger symptoms. Some people may experience severe symptoms from a food allergy, including the potentially fatal anaphylactic reaction (swelling of the throat, airways become narrow blocking breathing). Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening reaction that can impair breathing and send the body into shock; reactions may simultaneously affect different parts of the body (for example, a stomach-ache accompanied by a rash).

Many people think the terms ‘food allergy’ and ‘food intolerance’ mean the same, but they do not. Food intolerance is an adverse food-induced reaction that does not involve the immune system. Lactose intolerance is one example of food intolerance. A person with lactose intolerance lacks an enzyme that is needed to digest milk sugar. When the person eats milk products, symptoms such as gas, bloating and abdominal pain may occur.

Although an individual may be allergic to any food, such as fruits, vegetables and meats, these are not as common as the following eight foods which account for 90 per cent of all food-allergic reactions: Milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts (walnut, cashew, etc.), fish, shellfish, soya and wheat.

Homeopathic Treatment For Food Allergy

Homeopathic treatment of food allergies can be very beneficial as it treats food allergies by optimising the overcharged immune system. Though the treatment may require a more serious approach, most of the allergies can be treated with homeopathy. Homeopathy views food allergies as an expression of a disturbance in the patient’s healing system. Food allergies are not a disease to be cured in themselves, but a reflection of an underlying imbalance.

Food sensitivity or intolerance can be treated by homeopathic medicines that are specific to that particular problem. For example, homeopathic medicine Silicea for milk intolerance in infants, when even the mother’s milk disagrees; Zingiber for diarrhea that sets in after eating melons; Antim crudum for headache that comes after eating fruits.

Homeopathic Medicines For Food Allergies

1. Calcarea Carb – For Milk Allergy

Calcarea Carb is an important homeopathic medicine for milk allergy when there is vomiting after consuming milk. There is nausea, distension of abdomen, cutting pain and diarrhea. In some cases, there may be a cold sensation in the abdomen.

How And When To Take Calcarea Carb?

If symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and loose stools appear after consuming any milk product, calcarea carbonica can be taken. Low potency (30C), can be taken 2-3 times in a day. High potency 200C can be taken once in a day if expected results are not seen after taking low potency. It is advisable to consult an experienced homeopath before administering 1M or higher potency.

2. Colchicum – For Allergy From Egg

Colchicum is a well-known homeopathic medicine used for gastrointestinal ailments arising after eating eggs. It is the best remedy for distension of the abdomen with gas and loud flatus. There are frequent tasteless burps with pressing/ tearing/ cutting or stitching pain and cramps in stomach. The patient cannot bear the smell of food, it causes nausea and vomiting. The stool contains white large particles in large quantities with mucus-like rice water. All the symptoms of Colchicum are relieved by bending forward.

When And How To Use Colchicum?

It is used in case of stomach pain or feeling of pressure on the stomach with heaviness and continuous rumbling of gas. The recommended dosage in most of the cases is 30C which can be used up to 2-3 times in a day.

200C and 1M are considered very high potencies. The suggested dose of 200C is once in a day, not to be repeated frequently. It is best to consult an experienced homeopath as self-medication should not be done in high power dosage.

3. Urtica Urens – Homeopathic Remedy For Shell Fish/Fish Allergy

Urtica Urens is a top-ranked homeopathic medicine for treating shell fish allergy. There is violent itching with burning and stinging pain on skin. Sometimes along with itching, swelling all over rashes are formed known as hives. The skin looks red, raised and requires constant scratching. The eruption and itching disappear as soon as the patient lies down and reappear immediately after rising. The complaints get worse by water, touch, air, rising up and disappear after lying down.

When and How to use Urtica Urens?

This remedy can be used in rashes or hives which arise after consuming fish/shell fish. Symptoms mainly categorise with intense skin itching, followed by burning. It can be taken 2-3 times in a day in 30C potency. Higher potencies such as 200C and 1M can also be used but it is best to seek professional help before using them.

4. Lycopodium – For Wheat Allergy

Lycopodium offers a homeopathic cure for wheat allergy when consumption of wheat products triggers a gastric reaction. It comprises of symptoms like bloating, burping (tasting sour) and flatulence. It is well indicated for weak digestion with burning burping and bitter taste in mouth.

When and How to take lycopodium?

It is a remedy that is used in wheat allergy with a much-bloated abdomen, heartburn, waterbrash (acid reflux from stomach upwards to the throat) and noisy flatulence. Both the lower and the highest potencies are credited with excellent results. But as it is a deep-acting remedy hence lower potency, 30C is usually preferred, 2-3 times in a day. Otherwise 200C potency or higher dose, has proved efficacious, but should not be taken too frequently.

5. Apis Mellifica – For Skin Issues In Food Allergy

Apis Mellifica is a wonderful medicine for treating Urticaria (rashes of round, red welts) on the skin where itching is severe. It is a great remedy when hives develop due to milk allergy. The body is covered with large, elevated bumps accompanied by stinging, burning, pricking or itching. The wheals (red, swollen marks) are painful, tender, hot and extremely sensitive to touch with stinging pain. There is also violent itching and burning in the wheals. The person needing Apis Mellifica may experience worsening of symptoms by warmth and relief by cold applications.

When and How to take Apis mellifica?

The symptoms such as hives/wheals/ bumps caused due to specific foods are largely benefitted by Apis. The complaints include rapid swelling of the affected area along with stinging pain, burning, itching and redness. The lower potency 30C works well in these conditions and can be repeated 2-3 times in a day. A careful analysis should be done before using it in 200C and 1M potencies and should not be frequently repeated if the symptoms doesn’t seem to get better.

Common Food Allergens

In adults, they include:

Peanuts

Tree nuts, such as walnuts

Shellfish, including shrimps, crayfish, lobsters and crabs

For children, the food allergens that most often cause problems are:

Eggs

Milk

Peanuts

Types Of Food Allergies

Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome

Also termed as oral allergy syndrome, pollen food allergy syndrome affects many people having hay fever. In this condition, a protein found in certain nuts, spices, fresh fruits and vegetables can trigger an allergic reaction that can cause itching in the mouth. In serious reactions, it can lead to throat swelling or anaphylaxis.

Proteins in certain fruits, vegetables or nuts cause the reaction as they are similar to allergy-causing proteins found in certain pollens. This is an example of cross reactivity.

Exercise-Induced Food Allergy Syndrome

In this condition after eating certain foods, there is itching, a person may faint and can get ‘hives’ or even anaphylaxis when body temperature goes up after exercising. One can prevent it by avoiding eating anything for a few hours before exercising.

Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES)

Also referred to as delayed food allergy, it is a severe condition causing vomiting and diarrhea after consuming food allergen, like milk, soy and grains. FPIES mostly develops in infancy when the baby is introduced to solid food.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis

In this condition, there is inflammation of esophagus (food pipe). It occurs due to allergy or sensitivity to particular proteins found in foods. Many people with this condition have a family history of asthma, rhinitis, dermatitis or food allergy.

Symptoms Of Food Allergy

The symptoms that the allergic individual produces are individual in nature. They can range from a mild asthmatic attack to a severe life-threatening allergic response anaphylaxis.

– If people are allergic to a particular food, for example, they may first experience itching in the mouth as they start to eat food.

– After the food is digested in the stomach, abdominal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea or pain may start.

– When the food allergens enter and travel through the bloodstream, they can cause a drop in blood pressure.

– As the allergens reach the skin, they can induce hives or eczema, or when they reach the lungs, they may cause asthma.

– All of this takes place within a few minutes to an hour.

Other symptoms include

– Shortness of breath

– Wheezing,

– Repetitive cough

– Shock or circulatory collapse

– Tight, hoarse throat; trouble swallowing

– Swelling of the tongue, affecting the ability to talk or breathe

– Weak pulse

– Pale or blue colouring of skin

– Dizziness or fainting

Most food-related symptoms occur within two hours of ingestion; often they start within minutes. In some very rare cases, the reaction may be delayed by four to six hours or even longer. Delayed reactions are most typically seen in children who develop eczema as a symptom of food allergy and in people with a rare allergy to red meat caused by the bite of a lone star tick.

Pathophysiology Of Food Allergy

Our immune system uses two components to deal with food allergies. One of these is immunoglobulin E (IgE), a type of blood-moving protein known as an antibody. The other is mast cells, which are found in all body tissues but are particularly prevalent in the digestive tract, nose, throat, and lungs. When you eat a food to which you are allergic to for the first time, certain cells produce a lot of IgE to counter the allergen in the food. IgE is released and adheres to the surface of the mast cells. Although you won’t have an allergic reaction just yet, your body is prepared to do so.

The allergen reacts with that IgE the time you consume the meal containing the allergen, causing the mast cells to release histamine and other substances. These compounds will produce different symptoms depending on the tissue they are in. Additionally, some food allergens can enter your bloodstream because they aren’t destroyed by the cooking heat, stomach acids, or other food-digesting enzymes. They can then spread throughout your body and trigger allergic reactions. The timing and the place are impacted by the digestive process. Your mouth can start to itch. Then, you can have symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain. Blood-borne food allergies can lower blood pressure. They can cause hives ( reddish bumps on skin) when they reach the skin.

Risk Factors Of Food Allergy

1. Family history: Risk of having food allergy increases if one has a family history of asthma, hives, eczema or allergies, like hay fever.

2. Age: Food allergies are more common in children, especially infants. As a child grow older, the digestive system matures and the body is less affected by the food that triggers allergy.

3. Asthma: Asthma and food allergy commonly occur simultaneously. When they occur symptoms of both are severe.

4. Other allergies: If one is having a particular type of allergic reaction like hay fever, one is more prone to risk of developing food allergy.

Dr. Vikas Sharma is a Chandigarh-based homeopathic doctor. He has been practicing homeopathy for the last 13 years.

Is Jaw Cracking, Jaw Pain Troubling You? Try Homeopathic Remedies

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 2 Comments

Jaw pain is a very common problem experienced by a number of people. It may be accompanied by some other symptoms depending on the case. These include stiffness in the jaw, swelling or tenderness around the jaw, burning sensation around the jaw, clicking sounds on opening or closing the jaw, pain on the face while moving the jaw, headache, the pain in the ear, ringing in the ears and toothache.

Homeopathic medicines are very effective in managing complaints of jaw pain. These medicines help in reducing the intensity and frequency of the pain gradually. They also help relieve the accompanying symptoms like stiffness in the jaw, swelling or tenderness around jaw, pain in the face, headache and pain in the ear. Homeopathic medicines for jaw pain are natural hence are completely safe to use.

Homeopathic medicines offer significant relief in cases of jaw pain by addressing the root cause and it thus offers long-term relief. This not only provides us with immediate relief but also ensures there is no recurrence. It effectively alleviates jaw pain related to various conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder, arthritis, dental problems, sinus infection, cluster headache, trigeminal neuralgia.

Homeopathic medicines for jaw pain works wonders when administered as per the characteristic symptoms of each individual. Individualised medicines are administered carefully after detailed case analysis by a homeopath. These promote lasting effects and improve overall health of the patient. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine for jaw pain only after evaluating the reason behind it after consulting a doctor. These medicines can be taken only when the cause is mild to moderate. However, in case of a serious jaw pain caused by a heart attack, immediate intervention through conventional mode of treatment is non-negotiable. Some of the symptoms like chest discomfort, difficulty in breathing, nausea, sweating or fainting along with jaw pain signal urgent help for which one should consult an allopathic doctor.

Homeopathic medicines for jaw pain have no side-effects. These medicines are prepared from natural substances and offer relief in a gentle way and can be used among people of all age groups with promised safety.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines For Jaw Pain

The top seven medicines for managing jaw pain are Rhus Tox, Silicea, Causticum, Hecla Lava, Spigelia, Alumina and Phosphorus.

1. Rhus Tox – Top-grade Medicine

Rhus Tox is a leading medicine that helps manage jaw pain. A patient may report with stiffness of the jaw along with pain. There is a feeling as if the jaw would break. There is a cracking sound in the jaw joint and its movement is audible. There can be cramping pain in the lower jaw near the ear. It may get better by applying something warm and also by pressing it. Lastly, it is administered for pain in the teeth that extends to the jaw and the side of the head.

When to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox is topmost medicine to manage cases of jaw pain along with stiffness of jaw with sensation as if the jaw would break.

How to use Rhus Tox?

From low to high potency it works well in all potencies. Initially, it is best to use 30C potency two to three times a day.

2. Silicea – For Throbbing Toothache With Pain In Jaw

This medicine is administered when a person has a throbbing toothache with jaw pain. The jaw may have swelling too. It is also administered for rheumatic pain in the jaw that extends to the sides of the head.

When to use Silicea?

Silicea should be given to the patients who have jaw pain and along with it there is pain in the teeth and swelling in the jaw.

How to use Silicea?

This medicine gives excellent results in 6X potency that can be used two to three times a day.

3. Causticum – For Jaw Pain When One Has difficulty in Opening Mouth

Causticum is a medicine best used for patients who have jaw pain along with difficulty in opening the mouth. For using it, the pain can be tensive or dragging. It is also indicated for arthritic and rheumatic pain in the lower jaw. A sensation of tension and swelling under the jaw is also indicative for its use.

When to use Causticum?

This medicine is of great help to manage pain in the jaw with considerable difficulty in opening the mouth along with tense sensation and swelling under the jaw.

How to use Causticum?

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. However, it is better to start with low potency like 30C once a day.

4. Hecla Lava – For Jaw Pain After Tooth Extraction

This medicine is beneficial for those who have pain in the jaw following tooth extraction. The accompanying symptom may be that the jaw becomes sore and swollen. Other than this, it is useful for managing toothache with sensitivity to pressure and swelling around the jaws.

When to use Hecla Lava?

Hecla Lava is an important medicine to help cases of jaw pain that occurs after tooth extraction.

How to use Hecla Lava?

This medicine can be used once or twice a day at 30C potency.

5. Spigelia – For Lower Jaw Pain Radiating To Ears

This medicine is recommended when there is pain in the lower jaw that extends to the ears. It may also extend to the temporal (sides) region of the head. In some cases, the pain may extend from the jaw to the neck. It is one of the best medicines for cases of facial neuralgia with above symptoms. Another indication for using it is pain in the lower jaw while chewing, with a feeling that the lower jaw has split from the joint.

When to use Spigelia?

This medicine works well for cases of pain in the jaw when pain radiates to the ears.

How to use Spigelia?

It can be used in low 30C potency once or twice a day. It can also be used in 200C potency but not more than once a day.

6. Alumina – For Jaw Pain While Chewing or Opening Mouth

It is one of the top medicines to help if jaw pain occurs while chewing or opening the mouth. Pain is tensive (stressful). Swelling of the jaw may be an accompanying factor. Along with this, there may be a sensation as if the lower jaw has shortened. Another indication for its use is, there is intense pain in the jaw and the cheeks.

When to use Alumina?

Alumina is administered to provide relief from the jaw pain that occurs while chewing or opening the mouth.

How to use Alumina?

It is advised to take Alumina 30C once a day.

7. Phosphorus – For Tearing Pain In Jaw Bones

Phosphorus is effective when there is a tearing type of pain in the jaw bones. The pain occurs mainly during the evenings. Those who need it feel enhanced pain while lying down. Jaw movement may offer relief in the pain.

When to use Phosphorus?

This medicine is useful for managing the tearing sort of jaw pain felt mostly during the evenings.

How to use Phosphorus?

Phosphorus can be used once a day at 30C power.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

Jaw pain can result due to various reasons. The most common cause behind the jaw pain is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder). TMJ is a hinge joint, one on each side of the jaw that connects the jawbone to the temporal bones of the skull. This joint helps in jaw movement while talking, chewing or yawning. Any problem with this joint or in the muscles around this joint is referred to as TMJ disorder. This disorder can lead to jaw pain. TMJ disorder has many causes and some of them include an injury to the jaw, teeth grinding, arthritis, and muscle inflammation around the jaw. Apart from jaw pain, other symptoms of this disorder include pain in the face or around the ears, clicking/popping sound while opening the mouth, ringing in the ears, headache and dizziness.

The second cause for jaw pain is trauma to the jaw. It can occur from a blow on the face or if one falls directly on the face. Trauma may result in dislocated or a broken jaw.

Thirdly, jaw pain may follow a dental surgery during recovery period.

The next cause can be the dental problems. These include tooth damage, cavities, crowded teeth, misaligned teeth, dental abscess (a pocket of pus that can occur in any part of a tooth), gum disease, teeth grinding and jaw clenching.

Another cause is sinusitis or sinus infection which is the inflammation of any of the para-nasal sinus, the air-filled spaces in the skull. In case of infection or inflammation of these sinuses, there is excessive production of mucus that puts pressure on the jaw joint and can result in pain in the upper jaw. Its main signs and symptoms are thick nasal discharge, nasal congestion, dripping of mucus from the back of nose at the back of the throat (also called PND, means post nasal drip), pain, tenderness and swelling around the forehead, eyes, cheeks, nose and decreased sense of smell and taste.

Arthritis may also cause jaw pain. In case arthritis affects TMJ, it can result in the jaw pain. It includes osteoarthritis (wear and tear of the protective cartilage at the ends of bones), rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease in which the immune cells mistakenly attack the lining of the membranes that surround joints and causes its inflammation and damage.)

Another reason is cluster headache. This type of headache mainly causes pain behind or around one eye and lasts for weeks or months, followed by a long period of no pain. In some cases, the pain can spread to the jaw.

Trigeminal neuralgia is also one of the causes for the jaw pain. It is a chronic painful condition affecting the trigeminal nerve and mainly arises when a blood vessel puts pressure on this nerve. Pain occurs on one side of the face, mainly on the jaw, cheeks, teeth, gums and lips.

Lastly, it can be a sign of heart attack. Though in case of heart attack, chest pain is the major symptom, in some of these cases, pain can be felt in the neck, back or the jaw. Jaw pain can occur on the left side during a heart attack, mostly in women.

7 Best Homeopathic Medicines for Fever

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 145 Comments

Feeling feverish is a seasonal reality, popping in a pill and hoping it improves your condition as you go about your business is a reality too. But here’s the catch: Over-the-counter pill might bring down the temperature, but the infection will still remain in the body. Here’s where the role of homeopathic medicines for fever comes into play, as these are made of natural substances, and offer a different course of medical approach: these natural medicines target the infection, so the root cause is eliminated.

Fever, also termed as pyrexia, is a temporary rise in body temperature above normal. The normal body temperature ranges from 97 F to 98.7 degree Fahrenheit. Fever in itself is not a disease but is only an external signal that denotes an internal infection or inflammation in the body. Everybody’s normal body temperature varies between 97 and 99 degrees F. Fever is defined as a temperature of 100.4 degrees F or above.

For kids temperature higher than 100.4 degree F (measured rectally); 99.5 degree F (measured orally); or 99 degree F (measured under the arm) is considered fever.

Top Natural Homeopathic Medicines for Fever

1. Aconite – For Fever with Restlessness and Anxiety

Aconite is the perfect remedy for the first stage of inflammatory fever. It is a natural remedy of great help when the fever is accompanied by extreme restlessness and anxiety. The patient feels an increased thirst for cold water and the body aches are intolerable. The use of medicine Aconite should always be considered when the fever has risen after sudden exposure to cold winds. There is extreme chill in the body, and the patient desires to be covered up always.

When and How to take Aconite?

Fever is always accompanied by excessive thirst and intense restlessness. Fever is accompanied by chills and feels better by wrapping up. A general recommendation is to start with 30C potency which can be repeated 3-4 times in a day. A higher potency 200C can be taken twice in a day if the symptoms still persist. It is advisable to consult a homeopathic physician before taking it in 1M or higher potency.

2. Bryonia Alba – For Fever with Bodyache

Bryonia Alba is a natural medicine for patients in whom body aches predominate during fever along with chills. Body is cold to touch along with chills. Such a person wants to lie down still to get relief and slight motion worsens his or her condition. There is increased thirst. Symptoms get worse from warmth, movement and touch but one feels better by lying on the painful side.

When and How to take Bryonia Alba?

This medicine is indicated for cases where chills and body pain accompany fever. After carefully matching the symptoms, lower potency 30C can be taken and repeated 2-3 times in a day. 200C potency can be taken once in a day and repeated infrequently. 1M is a high potency and should be used cautiously; it is important to consult a homeopathic practitioner before repeating this potency particularly.

3. Eupatorium Perfoliatum – For Fever With Bone Pain

Eupatorium Perfoliatum is one of the most efficient fever remedies in homeopathy. It is of great help to treat fever when the patient experiences severe bone pain. This remedy provides quick relief from pain. The main indication that can be given more importance while taking Eupatorium Perfoliatum for fever is that the character of fever is periodic (repeated at certain fixed intervals). The chill stage is accompanied by intense aching and bone pains. The patient shivers and shakes with agonising pain in the head and eyes. The character of pain is bruised and the patient feels as if beaten. Though it can be given for any kind of fever, it is a leading remedy for dengue fever and malaria.

How and When to take Eupatorium Perfoliatum?

Eupatorium Perfoliatum is the ideal natural medicine when extreme pains accompany fever. This remedy is capable of managing fever in any age group. Eupatorium Perfoliatum can be used in 30C potency for mild cases of fever and other complaints such as great soreness and bone pain. It can be repeated as frequently as three to four times a day. 200C and 1M potency should be used only after careful matching of the disease symptoms with the symptoms of the patient.

4. Gelsemium – For Fever With Weakness

Gelsemium has been considered an excellent remedy for treatment of Influenza for long. It is very beneficial in fever cases where the patients suffer from weakness, dizziness and even the tendency to faint. There is an absence of thirst in most cases. Though it is a prominent medicine for influenza, in some cases, it can be used in early stage of typhoid fever with great exhaustion, dizziness with the patient preferring to be covered.

When and How to take Gelsemium?

Gelsemium shows all the characteristics of viral influenza. There is body ache, myalgia (musclular pain), sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, dullness, weakness and headache. When these symptoms are prominent, Gelsemium should be considered. It works well in all potencies but it is best to start with 30C, it can be repeated up to 3-4 times in a day. It can be taken twice in 200C potency. It is advisable to consult a homeopath before administration in 1M potency.

5. Rhus Tox – For Fever with Extreme Bodyache

Rhus Tox is one of the top natural medicines for persons who have fever with extreme body aches, leading to restlessness. Such a person wants to remain in motion to get relief. Rhus Tox is also the natural medicine for fever as a result of getting wet in rain. During fever, there is shivering all over the body, tongue becomes dry with stretching pain in body, along with mental and physical weakness.

When and how to take Rhus tox?

Rhus tox is often indicated in fever with pain and great restlessness in the body. It has demonstrated good results in both low (30C) and high (200C and 1M) potencies. It can be frequently repeated 3-4 times in a day in 30C potency. Higher potencies are not to be repeated very often; it is advisable to wait. After taking 200C potency, it is advisable to wait and should be only repeated twice in a day. For 1M or higher potency, please consult your local experienced homeopath.

6. Belladona – Homeopathic medicine for fever of inflammatory origin

Belladona is one of the first remedies to be thought of in those cases where there is fever with pain in throat, which is is also sore, red and inflamed . During fever, the head becomes hot, but the feet are cold. Internally it feels cold but externally there is very strong burning heat.

When and How to take Belladona?

Belladonna stands for cases of high fever with no thirst, and burning heat in the head but a cold feeling in the feet. Belladonna 30 & Belladona 200 are the most common potencies used for the treatment. 30C requires frequent repetition, and they should be given 2-3 times a day till the expected result is seen. 200C is a high potency, it is advised not to repeat frequently. 1M is a very high potency and should be used cautiously.

7. Arsenic Album – For Fever With Marked Exhaustion

Arsenic album can be thought of in cases of typhoid and malaria fever. Periodicity is marked with body burning pains, weakness, restlessness, exhaustion and aggravation during night. The complaint gets worse by the slightest movement and feels better after applying heat. In the heat stage, there is an inclination to uncover, as there is dry heat with thirst. At the end of the fever stage, there is cold and clammy sweat. Sometimes along with fever, gastric symptoms also exist such as colic, nausea, loose stool with heaviness in stomach.

When and how to take Arsenic Album?

Arsenic is one of the best remedies for fever due to malaria or typhoid. There is great debility, restlessness and chill. It can be administered in 30C potency, which can be repeated 2 times a day. If there is no improvement at all with low potency dose, it is advisable to consult a good homeopath before taking 200C or 1M potency.

Types Of Fever

Five main types of fever are:

Intermittent fever: The temperature is high but falls to normal (37.2 degree C or below) each day. This type of fever is seen in malaria.

Remittent fever: In this type of fever, body temperature fluctuates, though it falls, it never falls all the way back to normal. This type of fever is associated with infectious diseases such as infective endocarditis, rickettsiae infections, brucellosis, among others.

Continuous fever: It is also called sustained fever. The fever is prolonged with little or no change in temperature over the course of the day. Temperature remains above normal throughout the course of 24 hours and does not fluctuate more than 1 degree Celsius in 24 hours. This type of fever occurs in lobar pneumonia, typhoid (step –ladder pattern, a stepwise increase in temperature with a high plateau) and urinary tract infection.

Hectic Fever: In this fever type, there are wide swings in temperature. Intermittent or remittent fever is considered hectic with a temperature difference of at least 1.4 degree Celsius between the highest and the lowest temperature. This fever pattern is indicative of an abscess or pyogenic infection such as pyelonephritis.

Relapsing Fever: This is a type of intermittent fever that comes up again after days or weeks of normal temperatures. With animal bites and disease like malaria, this fever is common.

There is no specific medicine in homeopathy to bring down the temperature, but natural remedies target the infection instead. This is because the temperature is the only index through which the progress of the infection inside the body is reflected. The rise in body temperature is directly proportional to the extent of infection. An increase in temperature indicates a further spread of infection while a decrease in temperature shows that the infection is fading away. If the body temperature is abruptly brought down without halting the infection process, there is no way to find out what is going on inside the body and to what degree the infection is still present in the body. So, the end result is that the fever no doubt is gone, but its root cause — the infection, is still there. Natural medicines act by putting a check on the infection, preventing its further progress and the temperature thus is automatically brought down gradually as the infection declines. The remedies also make sure that no weakness or other residual effects of fever remain in the body. Homeopathy has a huge number of natural medicines to deal with fever cases.

Causes Of Fever

Fever or a higher-than-normal body temperature could result from:

1. Infections: Viral or bacterial infections is the most common cause of fever. This includes colds, flu, gastroenteritis or infection in the ears, skin, throat or bladder.

2. Environmental factors: Heat strokes due to high ambient temperature or prolonged strenuous exercise and extreme sunburn can all raise the body temperature.

3. Inflammatory diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, which causes the lining of your joints to become inflamed, is one example of an inflammatory condition (synovium); lupus and inflammatory bowel diseases can cause fever.

4. Hormonal disorders: This includes hyperthyroidism which can increase the body temperature.

5. Drugs: The side effects of some medicines, including those used to treat high blood pressure, seizures, and antibiotics can cause fever.

6. Cancer: A malignant (cancerous) growth can cause fever.

7. Several vaccinations

8. Alcohol withdrawal

9. Teething in babies

Symptoms Of Fever

Temperature higher than 100.4 F (38 C) in adults and children

When someone has fever, depending on what causes fever, they may also have the following symptoms:

A. Shivering and feeling cold when nobody else is feeling cold

1. Headache: Pain in the head often accompanies a fever.

2. Muscle aches: Having sharp or constant aches can be due to fever.

3. Rash: Red bumps may be noticed on the skin along with fever

4. Restlessness: One may feel restless while having fever.

5. Weakness or fatigue: One may feel decrease in muscle strength during fever.

6. Sweating

7. Low appetite: A variety of infections can cause fever along with lack of appetite.

8. Signs of dehydration

9. Increased sensitivity to pain

10. Lack of energy and feeling sleepy

11. Difficulty in concentrating

B. If a baby has a fever, these symptoms are prominent:

1. Feel hot to the touch

2. Have flushed cheeks

3. Sweaty

Some children show frightening side effect of fever called febrile seizures. They most likely occur with a fever of at least 100.4 degree Farenheit (38 degree Celsius). In some cases, children may have seizure before developing a fever. These seizures happen in 2-4 % of children under age 5. These seizures are short lived and harmless, but in 2.5 % and 5 % of children, who have complex febrile seizure, develop epilepsy.

With high fever, there may also be irritability, confusion, delirium, and seizures.

Pathophysiology Of Fever

Specific body temperature is a balance of heat production and heat loss. Hypothalamus (a gland in the brain) also called as the body thermostat monitors this balance. Even in a healthy condition the body temperature varies, it can be lower in the morning and higher in the late afternoon and evening.

Fever is a response of our immune system to foreign invaders. These foreign invaders include viruses, bacteria, fungi, drugs or toxins. These foreign invaders are considered pyrogens (fever producing substances) which trigger the immune response of the body. Pyrogens signals the hypothalamus that sets the body temperature higher in order to help the body fight against the infection. This prompt complex process results in more heat production and restricts heat loss. The body produces heat when one shivers in fever. Wrapping blanket around body in chilled state of fever is a way to retain body heat.

What Is Rectal Tenesmus? Signs, Symptoms And Homeopathic Treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

Rectal tenesmus refers to a feeling of incomplete bowel movements. A person feels the urge to defecate even if he/she has already defecated. There is a feeling of incomplete defecation even when all contents in the bowels have been expelled. It can be attended with pain and hard straining to pass just a little more stool during bowel movements.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is very effective in managing cases of rectal tenesmus. Homeopathic medicines help in reducing the intensity and frequency of this complaint gradually. Along with tenesmus, these also bring improvement in its attending signs and symptoms. Use of homeopathic medicines is recommended in those cases where the intensity of the complaint is mild to moderate. In cases where symptoms are severe or point towards some serious cause (example colorectal cancer), it is advised to take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For Rectal Tenesmus

1. Nux Vomica – Top-grade Medicine

It is one of the best medicines for treating cases of rectal tenesmus. Persons who need this medicine have frequent and ineffectual urge to pass stool. They go for defecation several times a day but have unsatisfactory stool and have a constant urge to pass stool. Soon after passing stool, they feel like going to the washroom again. It is a very effective medicine for tenesmus with constipation. The stool is very hard and dry in such cases. It can be blood-streaked too. Before passing stool, sometimes they have cutting pain around the navel. Sticking pain in rectum may occur after passing stool. Its use is also indicated when there is frequent urge to pass stool and the stool is slimy, watery and has blood. In such cases, small quantities of jelly-like mucus may also be present in the stool.

2. Merc Sol – For Rectal Tenesmus With A Never-Get-Done Feeling

This medicine is well indicated for cases in which there is rectal tenesmus with a never-get-done feeling. Persons requiring it have to nidulge in excessive straining for stool with relatively scanty stool being passed. The stool is also slimy, bloody and has mucus in it. It can be greenish. In some cases, undigested food is passed as stool which has sour smell. It is accompanied by pinching and cutting colic. Pain and burning in anus can also attend. Nausea and vomiting sometimes accompany. Lastly, it is indicated for ineffectual urge to pass stool with protruding piles.

3. Aloe – For Rectal Tenesmus And Excessive Passage Of Gas During Stool

It is prepared from the gum of the leaves of plant Aloe Socotrina. It belongs to family Liliaceae. It is a very effective medicine for rectal tenesmus and excessive passage of gas during stool. In cases needing it, there is a continuous urge to pass stool, and gets worse soon after eating and drinking. Along with this, a feeling of fullness and weight on the pelvis is felt. A constant bearing down in the rectum occurs. Rumbling and gurgling in the rectum with the urgency to pass stool is also felt. Stool is lumpy, watery in cases needing it. A lot of mucus may pass in stool.

4. Merc Cor – When Mucus And Blood In Stool Attends

This medicine is well-indicated for cases in which tenesmus is attended with mucus and blood in the stool. The tenesmus is excessive and the stool is hot, scanty and contains shreds of mucous membrane. It also has an offensive smell. The colour can be yellow or green. Cutting and colicky pains may occur along with the above symptoms. The desire to pass stool is frequent and ineffectual with violent pain. Anal burning occurs while passing stool. Weakness is marked with the above symptoms.

5. Arsenic Album – For Tenesmus With Diarrhea

Arsenic Album is a beneficial medicine for cases in which there is tenesmus with diarrhea. For using it, the stool is loose, green, slimy and foul-smelling. Pieces of mucus may pass with it. Cutting pain in anus attends it with marked weakness. Besides, rumbling in intestine occurs. In some cases, the stool passes involuntarily. The last indication for using it is piles which is painful, and swollen along with tenesmus. The pain in piles is stitching type.

6. Nitric Acid – For Tenesmus With Rectal Pain

It is a useful medicine for tenesmus with rectal pain. Mostly the pain in rectum is sharp splinter-like in nature with ineffectual urge to pass stool. The stool is putrid, loose with undigested food, along with passage of gas. It is mostly green with mucus, blood in stool may appear too. There is excessive straining to pass stool but little of it passes. It feels as if stool still remains in the rectum that could not be expelled. The anus feels raw and sore with this. Sometimes, cutting pain in anus and rectum is also felt. While passing stool, colic and nausea also occurs. Excessive exhaustion is felt along with these symptoms.

7. Lycopodium – For Tenesmus Of Rectum, Gas And Bloating

Lycopodium is prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum, commonly known as ‘club moss’. This plant belongs to family lycopodiaceae. It is a prominent medicine for managing cases in which there is rectal tenesmus, gas in abdomen and bloating. Persons needing it have straining while passing stool and tenesmus. With this, they have gas and bloating which is felt soon after eating even if they consume small quantity of food. The gas leads to pain in abdomen. While passing stool, they have burning, stinging sensation in rectum. A distressing pressure and pain in rectum is also felt.

8. Colchicum – For Scanty Stool With Tenesmus

This medicine is prepared from the bulb of plant Colchicum autumnale, commonly known as ‘meadow saffron’. It belongs to family melanthaceae of the liliaceae. It is valuable for cases having scanty stool with tenesmus. The stool may be greenish, yellowish or reddish. It contains white shreddy particles. Along with this, pain in anus occurs.

9. Capsicum – For Frequent, Small Stool With Tenesmus And Rectal Burning

This medicine is helpful for cases in which a person has frequent, little stool with tenesmus and burning in the rectum. The stool is greenish, frothy and may have blood and mucus in it. Before passing stool, there may occur cutting pain and colic due to gas, and twisting pains around the umbilicus. After passing stool, burning sensation occurs at the anus. Burning pain in rectum is well marked. Biting and stinging pain in anus may also accompany. Sometimes the tenesmus of rectum and bladder may be felt at the same time in cases needing Capsicum.

10. Colocynth – For Rectal Tenesmus And Colicky Pain In Abdomen

This medicine is prepared from the pulp of fruit Citrullus colocynthis, also called cucumis colocynthis and ‘bitter apple’. This plant belongs to family cucurbitaceae. It is beneficial for persons having rectal tenesmus and colicky pain in abdomen. Along with this, there is watery stool which is copious and strong smelling. Nausea and vomiting may also occur.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

It may arise from various reasons. First among them is IBD – inflammatory bowel disease (an autoimmune disease that causes long-term inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract). IBD includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. In case of Crohn’s disease, inflammation can occur in the lining of any part of digestive tract from mouth to anus. In this, deeper layers of the digestive tract are involved. In case of ulcerative colitis, there occurs inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine and rectum. In this, superficial lining of large intestine and rectum is involved.

Other than IBD, inflammation in the colon from infection (like a bacterial or viral infection), any non-infectious condition or radiation exposure can also lead to tenesmus. Another cause for it is diverticulitis; diverticula are small pouches that can form in the lining of the digestive system mostly in the lower part of the large intestine. When inflammation occurs in one or more of the pouches, then this condition is known as diverticulitis. Rectal tenesmus can also occur in case of ischaemic colitis (inflamed colon from decreased blood flow to it).

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) which is a disorder affecting the large intestine that leads to cramping, pain in abdomen, gas, bloating, diarrhea or constipation or both, is another cause behind it. It can also arise in cases of diarrhea and constipation. An abscess in the rectum, prolapsed hemorrhoid, sexually transmitted proctitis which is rectal inflammation (example of sexually transmitted infections that can inflame rectum are gonorrhoea, syphilis and chlamydia) may be some of the other causes of rectal tenesmus. Lastly, it can be a symptom in case of colorectal cancer.

What Are The Other Signs And Symptoms?

It can be accompanied by some other signs and symptoms depending on the cause behind it. These include rectal pain, pain in abdomen, diarrhea, constipation, blood in stool, mucus in stool, gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, weakness fever and chills.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines for Seborrheic Dermatitis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 89 Comments

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, is a non-contagious skin disorder characterized mostly by red, inflamed skin covered by flaky, dry, or greasy scales on the scalp, though other areas like the face, behind the ears, eyelashes, eyebrows, chest may also be affected. It is a long-term condition and runs a remitting and relapsing course. In infants (babies less than one year of age), seborrheic dermatitis is known as cradle cap. Dandruff is a type of seborrheic dermatitis with flakes or scales on the scalp but without inflammation of the skin.

Homeopathy works wonderfully in treating seborrheic dermatitis. Homeopathic medicines are of great service to help reduce inflammation and flaking on the scalp and other affected areas in seborrheic dermatitis. Simultaneously, attending complaints like itching, burning and hair fall are also managed remarkably. These medicines are useful to treat both, acute and chronic seborrheic dermatitis, effectively. In chronic cases, it works to reduce the intensity and the frequency of a flare-up of seborrheic dermatitis to begin with. Then, with time, the condition is treated and it fades away.

Seborrheic dermatitis results from a fungal infection and weak immunity predisposes a person to it. So homeopathy works in treating this underlying root cause of seborrheic dermatitis. Homeopathic medicines boost the self-healing mechanism of the body and strengthen immunity thus making it strong enough to fight seborrheic dermatitis on its own.

The use of homeopathic medicines has certain distinct advantages of its own when it comes to treating seborrheic dermatitis. First among these is homeopathy treats seborrheic dermatitis very safely and gently with natural remedies. Due to this there are no chances of any side effects. The next advantage is that they do not suppress this complaint. Another plus point is they bring about long-term recovery rather than temporary short-term relief. The treatment protocol for seborrheic dermatitis in conventional mode mainly includes medicated shampoos and creams that give temporary relief and might result in some side effects. So here homeopathy can be a very safe, effective alternative to treat seborrheic dermatitis.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines For Seborrheic Dermatitis

The best homeopathic medicines for the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis are Kali Sulphuricum, Natrum Mur, Graphites, Phosphorus, Thuja Occidentalis, Calcarea Carb, Arsenic Album and Sulphur.

1. Kali Sulphuricum – Top Remedy For Seborrheic Dermatitis

Kali Sulphuricum is the most frequently prescribed medicine for seborrheic dermatitis. The key feature to use this medicine is yellow, sticky flakes on the scalp. The scales are greasy and moist. Itching on the scalp may occur that gets worse from heat. In some cases, there is hair loss.

When to use Kali Sulphuricum?

This medicine proves most effective for cases with yellow sticky, greasy flakes on the scalp.

How to use Kali Sulphuricum?

It works best in low potency, especially ‘X’ potencies. Kali Sulphuricum 6X, 4 tablets for adults and 2 tablets for children, can be taken three to four times a day.

2. Natrum Mur – For White Coloured Flakes With Redness Underneath

Natrum Mur is the most wonderful medicine for seborrheic dermatitis with white flakes on the scalp and redness on the skin beneath. In a few cases needing it, crusts are present on the head and neck along the margins of the hair. There is marked itching on the scalp and neck. Hair fall can be prominent with white flakes. The skin on hairy parts is greasy where this medicine is required.

When to use Nat Mur?

It can be used in cases with specific white flakes on the scalp along with redness of underlying skin.

How to use Nat Mur?

The recommended dose of this medicine in the majority of cases is Natrum Mur 6X to be taken three to four times a day.

3. Graphites – To Manage Scales And Itching

Graphites is a well-indicated medicine for cases having excessive scales on the scalp along with intense itching. It is prominently indicated when scales form on top of the head (vertex). It is attended with pain on touching. Scales may extend behind the ears, on the margins of eyelids, and mustache area (in males) in some cases. The scales reduce after washing but reappear. There is matting together of hair and in some cases, hair fall is noted.

When to use Graphites?

This medicine is highly preferred to manage cases where excessive scales are present along with severe itching on the scalp. Tenderness is marked over the affected area.

How to use Graphites?

This medicine is usually used in low potencies like 3X, or 30C. The most commonly used among these is 3X potency. In mild cases, just one tablet a day of Graphites 3X is enough while in cases of high intensity, one tablet twice a day or two tablets twice a day may be required. Begin with just one tablet a day. In case no changes are noted, consult a homeopathic doctor to increase the dose.

4. Phosphorus – For Excessive Flakiness And Hairfall

Phosphorus is highly suitable when there is excessive flakiness on the scalp along with hair fall. Sometimes dry scabs are present on the scalp. The hair falls in bunches or from some particular spots on the scalp. Itching on the scalp is present that gets worse from scratching. A burning sensation on the scalp can be felt as well. In a few cases, sweating on the scalp is noticeable.

When to use Phosphorus?

Flakiness on the scalp along with hair falling in bunches is a key feature to prescribe this medicine.

How to use Phosphorus?

Among its various available potencies, the most frequently used is 30C potency. In the beginning, Phosphorus 30C can be taken one to two times a day as per severity of complaint.

5. Thuja Occidentalis – For White Flakes With Itching, Stinging On Scalp

Thuja Occidentalis is a natural remedy sourced from the plant Arbore Vitae. It is an important medicine to help cases where white flakes on the scalp form along with itching and stinging sensation. There is relief from scratching. The flakiness may extend to the ears. The hair may be dry, along with hair fall.

When to use Thuja Occidentalis?

White flakes on the scalp along with itching and stinging on the scalp is the key indications to use this medicine.

How to use Thuja Occidentalis?

This medicine can be used from low 30C potency to high potency like 200 C, 1M. The potency and repetition vary from case to case. As a general rule, low potencies can be taken frequently but high potencies are taken in infrequent doses. To begin with, it is safe to start with 30C once a day only. Higher potencies should only be used after consulting a homeopathic physician.

6. Calcarea Carb – For Scales On Scalp With Increased Sweating

The use of this medicine is considered in cases where scaliness is attended with increased sweating over the scalp. The yellowish-white scales can be thin or thick. In some cases, the scales are dry while in others moist.

When to use Calcarea Carb?

This medicine is indicated for cases presenting with yellow-white scaliness and profuse sweating on the scalp.

How to use Calcarea Carb?

One may take it in 30C potency once a day. In case no improvement is seen, high potencies like 200 C can be considered after consulting a homeopathic doctor.

7. Arsenic Album – For Dry Scales With Burning Sensation On Scalp

Another medicine on the list to treat seborrheic dermatitis is Arsenic Album. It is mostly recommended when there are dry scales on the scalp along with a burning sensation. The crusts may extend down to the forehead and ears in a few cases. The burning sensation gets worse in the evening. It can be attended with itching as well.

When to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine may be considered in cases of dry scales/ scabs with a burning sensation on the scalp.

How to use Arsenic Album?

Though it can be used in both low and high potencies, doctors usually prefer to start treatment with 30C power. Arsenic Album 30C can be taken once a day. Its high potencies should be taken only under the supervision of a homeopathic expert.

8. Sulphur – When Crusts Form On Scalp

Sulphur is of great use in cases presenting with crusts on the scalp. The crusts are thick, moist, and yellow. Intense itching can attend it. The itching gets worse in the evening. The scalp may be sore to touch. The hair may get dry and fall off.

When to use Sulphur?

It is the best choice of medicine for managing cases having thick, yellow, moist crusts on the scalp that can be accompanied by intense itching in the evening.

How to use Sulphur?

This medicine can be used in 30C potency once a day. Avoid using its high potencies without the doctor’s recommendation.

Causes of Seborrheic Dermatitis

Why seborrheic dermatitis occurs is still a question. However, certain factors are thought to play a role in its development. They include:

1. The overgrowth and irritation by toxic substances produced by Mallasezia (a type of yeast), mainly mallasezia globose, found on the scalp, is said to cause seborrhoeic dermatitis.

2. Genetic predisposition: A person having a family historyof seborrheic dermatitis is at risk of getting affected by it.

3. Weak immune system

4. Oily/greasy skin

5. Increased level of androgen hormone and increased levels of skin lipids

Trigger Or Worsening Factors For Seborrheic Dermatitis

Certain factors can trigger or worsen seborrheic dermatitis. These include stress, change of season, cold dry weather, sleep deprivation, use of harsh soaps, hormonal changes, history of skin complaints like psoriasis, acne, certain medicines like lithium psoralen, and obesity.

Signs And Symptoms Of Seborrheic Dermatitis

1. Inflamed, flaky skin on the scalp. It is the main sign of seborrheic dermatitis. The flakes vary from yellow, to white to greyish in color. In spite of the flakes, the skin on the scalp remains greasy.

Which area is affected by seborrheic dermatitis? The area involved mainly is the one where skin is oily and greasy. Most commonly it occurs on scalp, eyebrows, beard, mustache, eyebrows, sides of the nose, and behind the ears. However less commonly, in some cases it may affect armpits, chest, groin area, buttocks, around the navel, back, and area below breasts.

2. Crust formation: In some cases, greasy skin may be covered by crusts

3. Skin redness

4. Itching and burning on the affected skin

5. Hair loss in the affected part

Who Gets Affected By Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Though it can occur in both males and females, its occurrence is more common in men than women. It can affect persons of any age group, it is common in babies less than 3 months of age, and adults between 30 to 60 years of age.

How to diagnose Seborrheic Dermatitis?

A doctor can easily diagnose this condition by looking carefully at the affected skin area. Usually, no tests are required. Very rarely, a skin biopsy (here skin cells from the affected area are scraped off and sent to a laboratory for analysis) may be needed in cases where the diagnosis is uncertain or the condition is unresponsive to treatment to find other causes behind the skin problem.

Treatment Of White Tongue In Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 5 Comments

White tongue means white coating on the tongue. The coating may occur at some places on the tongue or on the entire tongue varying from case to case.

It may simply arise from poor oral hygiene, not cleaning the tongue properly, eating soft foods in excess but in some cases, it may occur from some medical reason (for example, oral thrush). In most cases, it is a harmless sign but rarely may indicate some serious issue.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be very effective in managing the cases of white tongue. With use of homeopathic medicines, the coating on tongue gradually decreases. Along with this, if there are any attending symptoms, these help to provide relief. As the reasons for white-coated tongue vary from mild to serious ones, it is advised to take any homeopathic medicine under supervision of homeopathic physician after complete case evaluation. Use of these medicines is recommended only when the cause is mild, but in case of serious causes like cancer, it is advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For White Tongue

1. Antimonium Crudum – For Thick White Coating

It is a very effective medicine for cases having thick white coating on the tongue. The tongue looks milky white. There is excessive salivation that may have a salty taste. There may be pain, soreness and redness on the edges of the tongue. Sometimes there is bitter taste in the mouth. In some cases, slimy mucus is present in the mouth.

2. Merc Sol – For Tongue Coated White Like Chalk

It is a well-indicated medicine for cases in which tongue is coated as white as chalk. It appears as if covered with white fur. The tongue is moist and may be swollen. This is attended with a bad, putrid, slimy or metallic taste in the mouth. Bad breath may also be there. Excessive salivation attends the above symptoms. The saliva is fetid, thick, soapy and stringy. Sores or ulcers may be present in the mouth and on the tongue. It is one of the prominent medicines for managing cases of oral thrush with thick white coating.

3. Pulsatilla – For Coated Tongue With Bad Taste In Mouth

This medicine is prepared from a plant Pulsatilla Nigricans commonly known as ‘wind flower’. It is useful for cases having white tongue in the morning accompanied by bad taste in the mouth. Tongue may be dry in morning. In some cases, a burnt taste is present in the mouth. The edges of the tongue may feel sore and scalded. Other than the above, mucus may cling to the mouth or tongue. In some cases, painful blisters are present on tongue.

4. Nitric Acid – For White Tongue With Sore Spots

Nitric Acid is a beneficial medicine for cases of white tongue with sore spots. The tongue is sensitive even to soft food. It is dry especially in the morning. In some cases, blisters with burning type of pain are present on the tongue. A foul smell attends the above symptoms. Next, there may be ulcers in the mouth with splinter-like pain.

5. Bryonia – For White Tongue With Red Edges

It is prepared from root of the plant Bryonia Alba, commonly known as ‘wild hops’. This medicine is indicated for cases having white coated tongue with red edges. In most cases needing it, the tongue is dry. There is bitter taste in mouth. The breath is offensive. Little ulcers on tip of tongue may be present.

6. Kali Mur – For Thin White Coating On Tongue

Use of this medicine is considered when there is thin white coating on the tongue. Along with this, the taste can be sour, bitter or salty. Coldness may be felt on the tongue. In some cases, the tongue is inflamed. Sometimes, blisters occur on the tongue with burning, stinging sensation.

7. Borax – For White Fungus Like Growth On Tongue

It is a helpful medicine for a white fungus-like growth on the tongue. It is a very suitable medicine for cases of oral thrush. Persons who need it may have dryness and cracks on the tongue. Next, they can have ulcers in the mouth and on the tongue. These are painful, tender and may bleed easily.

8. Arsenic Album – For White Coated Tongue As If Painted White

In cases requiring it, the tongue is white coated as if painted white. The taste of mouth is also bad. It can be sour, metallic, putrid or woody. The tongue is dry. Violent burning sensation is felt on the tongue along with the above complaints.

9. Petroleum – For White Tongue In The Centre

It is an important medicine when there is white coating in the centre of the tongue. There are dark streaks along the edges of the tongue. The taste of mouth is slimy, sour or putrid. The mouth smells like odour of garlic. The mouth and throat are very dry.

10. Taraxacum – For White Patches On Tongue

This medicine is used when there is white patchy coating on the tongue. It is a prominent medicine for geographic tongue (loss of papillae on the tongue’s surface forming geographical shapes).

Geographic tongue

The white spots may clear off leaving behind dark red, tender spots. These spots are very sensitive. Sour or bitter taste in the mouth accompanies it. Lastly, rawness, smarting, burning in the mouth can be felt.

11. Rhus Tox – For White Tongue On One Side

This medicine helps cases having white coated tongue only on one side. The tip of the tongue is red and triangular. Tongue is sore and dry. Taste of mouth can be metallic or bitter.

12. Phosphorus – When Tongue Is Coated Like Fur

This medicine is indicated for cases in which the tongue is coated like fur. The tongue is uniformly white, it is also dry and sometimes cracked. A stinging pain on the tip of the tongue can attend. Aphthous patches (small shallow lesions) may be present on the roof of mouth and tongue. The taste in the mouth is bitter, sour, sweet or salty in nature.

13. Chamomilla – For Coated Tongue And Burning Sensation On Tongue

It is prepared from a plant Matricaria chamomilla. It works well in cases having white tongue and burning sensation on the tongue. In some cases needing it, the tongue is white only on the sides and red in middle. Sometimes blisters on tongue are present attended with stinging pain.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

Mostly white tongue is a result of poor oral hygiene, poor brushing of teeth and not properly flossing the teeth. Initially, there may occur overgrowth, swelling and inflammation of the papillae (tiny bumps) on the tongue surface. Following this, debris, dead cells, dirt, germs, bits of food get trapped between these papillae. Lodging of all these particles gives white-coated appearance to the tongue. White tongue can next arise from dry mouth that may arise from mouth breathing or some medical condition. Smoking or chewing tobacco, regular alcohol intake may also lead to it. It may arise in case of fever, dehydration or from irritation from sharp edges of the teeth or braces etc. Sometimes, use of certain medications may cause it (like prolonged use of antibiotics).

Apart from the above, in some cases a white tongue may arise from some medical conditions.

It firstly includes oral lichen planus (OLP). It is an inflammatory condition of autoimmune origin that affects mucous membranes inside the mouth. In this disease, the tongue, inside of the cheeks, gums, inner surface of the lips or palate can be affected. White, lacy patterned lesions or sores occur in the mouth in this condition.

Next is oral thrush (oral candidiasis). It is an infection in the mouth caused by a fungus called candida albicans. In this, there occur white or creamy yellow patches in the mouth. These patches may form on inner cheeks, tongue, gums, roof of mouth or on the tonsils.

Third condition is leukoplakia. In this condition, thick, white patches form inside the cheeks, on gums, and on tongue. This condition is thought to arise usually from chronic irritation as from tobacco and alcohol use.

It may also arise in case of geographic tongue. It is an inflammatory condition of tongue characterised by appearance of island-shaped patches on the tongue giving it a map-like or geographic appearance.

Syphilis is yet another condition linked with it. It is a STI (sexually transmitted infection) caused by bacteria Treponema pallidum. It can cause white patches on the tongue if the infection is not treated.

Lastly, in rare cases it may arise from cancer of tongue or mouth.

What Are The Symptoms?

In many cases, there is just a white coating on the tongue. But in some cases, there may be a bad taste in the mouth or bad breath. In some case, white lacy thread-like patches in the mouth, sores in the mouth or tongue, pain, soreness and burning sensation in mouth or tongue may occur depending on the cause behind it.