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

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Eye Strain Headache

Headache is a very common complaint that can arise due to different reasons. Among them, eye strain may be one of them. How does eye strain result in a headache? This happens when the muscles of the eyes and around the eyes get tired of working hard to focus on an object. It may be a result of exposing oneself to prolonged screen time on computers and mobile; tired eyes from overuse or working in very dim or very bright light.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Eye Strain Headache

The top homeopathic medicines to manage eyestrain headache are Ruta, Natrum Mur, Belladonna, Phosphorus, Onosmodium, Silicea, Jaborandi and Phosphoric Acid.

1. Ruta – Top-Grade Medicine

This medicine is prepared from plant Ruta Graveolens commonly known as ‘Garden Rue’. It is a leading medicine in homeopathy for managing eyestrain headache. Persons needing it have headaches especially in the forehead. It is mostly pulsating type (frequent recurrence within small intervals of time). Along with this, there is reduced eyesight due to strain in the eyes. There is also aching in and over the eyes with blurred vision. Burning sensation and redness in the eyes may also occur along with these symptoms.

2. Natrum Mur – For Headache And Itching, Burning In Eyes

This medicine works well in cases of eye strain headache and itching/ burning in eyes. The pain in the head is mostly confined over the eyes and top of the head in cases needing it. Pain worsens on moving the eyeballs. Sleep may help to relieve the pain in the head. Smarting or shooting sensation may also be felt in eyes. Frequent watering from eyes can attend. Pressure in eyes is felt when looking at anything. Next, vision is cloudy when reading or writing. Sometimes double vision may accompany. Another attending complaint is sensitivity to bright light. Natrum Mur is also indicated for cases of blurred vision.

3. Belladonna – For Pulsating, Throbbing Pain In Head

This medicine is prepared from plant ‘deadly nightshade’. For using it, pain is pulsating/ throbbing type, most marked in the temporal region (means sides of the head). Heat is also felt in the head. Heaviness is felt on the sides of head and front of head. There is a feeling that the head would burst. The pain may get better by pressing the head in most cases requiring Belladona. Along with headache, redness and dryness is felt in the eyes. Burning/ shooting pain in eyes is also felt.

4. Phosphorus – For Pain On The Sides Of Head

This medicine is effective when pain occurs on the sides of the head. The pain can travel from one side of the head to the other. For using it, the pain can be pressing/ burning/ pulsating or boring (from outside to inside) in nature. The eyes feel strained, itching may also be felt in the eyes. Other attending symptoms are sensitivity to light, blurred vision, double vision, and burning sensation in the eyes.

5. Onosmodium – For Pain In Back Of Head From Eye Strain

It is prepared from a plant Onosmodium Virginianum having common name ‘False Gromwell’. It is suitable for cases having pain in the back of head (occiput) associated with eye strain. Heaviness and dull pain is felt in occiput. Soreness (pain on touching) and stiffness may also occur. It may extend down the spine. Along with this, there is feeling of tension in the eyes. Strained feeling in the eyes also attends the above symptoms.

6. Silicea – For Pain In Back Of Head That Extends Upward And Forward

It is a very beneficial medicine for cases in which pain begins from the back of head and then extends upward and forward over both sides. Other than this, it is also indicated when there is intense headache above eyes with inability to open the eyes. A pressure on the eyes is felt as if some heavy weight has been placed on the forehead. Other symptoms that can attend are pain, dryness and tension in eyes; pressure and soreness in eyes.

7. Jaborandi – For Headache And Burning Sensation In Eyes

It is a natural medicine prepared from plant ‘Pilocarpus pinnatifolius’. Use of this medicine is considered when there is easy tiring of eyes along with headache and burning sensation in eyes. There occurs pain in the front part of head and top of the head. Sometimes there is pain on the sides of head which is pulsating type. Sharp stinging sensation is also felt in the eyes in addition to the above symptoms.

8. Phosphoric Acid – For Dull Headache From Eye Strain

It is an important medicine for managing dull type of headache that occur from eye strain. In cases needing it, the headache mostly extends forward from behind, along with heaviness in the head. There is relief on lying down. Pressing pain is felt in the eyes and the eyeballs appear to be too large. Other than this, watering from eyes and sensitivity to light is felt.

9. Hamamelis – For Headache And Sore Pain In Eyes

This natural medicine is prepared from fresh bark of twigs and root of plant Hamamelis virginica (or Hamamelis dioica) commonly called ‘witch-hazel’. It is a helpful medicine to manage headache from eye strain and sore pain in eyes. Eyes are painful on the slightest pressure. There is sharp pain in the temples. In some cases, dull throbbing pain is felt in the back and top of head. Heaviness is felt in the head as if the head would burst any time .

What Are The Reasons Behind It?

1. First reason behind it is exposing oneself to screen time on computers and mobiles for long hours without taking any break. Blinking occur less frequently while viewing a screen that irritates the eyes and causes dryness and strain on eyes. The symptoms worsen in this case if the digital screen is at an incorrect distance, there is excessive glare on screen, or poor posture is maintained while working on digital screen.

2. The second reason is doing work that requires constant focus of eyes for long time period, like reading, sewing, driving for long distance without taking any break, etc.

3. Vision problems and uncorrected refractive error can also lead to it. In such case, the eye has to strain excessively to clearly see an image that makes them tired. It includes farsightedness (the person can see the distant objects clearly but has difficulty in focusing on objects that are close to them). Next is nearsightedness (the person can see near objects clearly but has difficulty seeing far away objects clearly). Another reason is astigmatism (in this condition, the shape of the cornea becomes irregular that results in difficulty in focusing on objects at certain angles). Dry eyes and inflamed eyes can also cause headache.

4. Last reason is working in either excessive bright or dim light.

What other symptoms can attend eyestrain headache?

It may be accompanied by other symptoms of eye strain. These include dryness of eyes or watering from eyes, blurred vision, itchy eyes, burning sensation in eyes, double vision, soreness of eyes, sensitivity to light, problem in concentration and pain in neck, shoulder and back.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1,218 Comments

Urinary tract infection or UTI refers to an infection in any part of the urinary tract which consists of kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract – the bladder and the urethra termed cystitis and urethritis respectively. Women are more prone to UTI than men.
Homeopathy holds a great promise to give excellent results in cases of UTI. Homeopathic medicines are very safe, gentle, natural and effective for UTI. These promote quick symptom relief in UTI. Symptoms such as pain, burning with urination, frequent and urgent urination all get significantly better with these medicines. Homeopathic medicines stimulate the body’s innate healing mechanism to fight the infectious agent which is causing UTI and exclude it from the body. To boost this mechanism, homeopathy uses very tiny amounts of highly diluted medicines procured from natural sources. This way it aids excellent natural cure with no side effects. Homeopathic medicines are highly recommended for mild to moderate cases of UTI. However, in severe cases and cases where kidneys are involved urgent help from conventional mode of treatment should be taken.
Homeopathy is a symptom-based science. Among a wide range of homeopathic medicines available to treat recurrent UTI, the most appropriate is selected after a thorough assessment of the detailed symptoms of the individual. Afterwards its potency, dose, repetition is decided as per homeopathic principles. In this way, effective cure happens with correctly selected medicine.
Homeopathic medicines work wonderfully well in urinary tract infections, whether acute or chronic and recurrent types. Homeopathic treatment gradually reduces the frequency and intensity of recurrent UTI episodes remarkably. It also helps to reduce chances of any complications. With proper homeopathic treatment the need for frequent antibiotic use can be highly minimized.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines For Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

The seven top-most homeopathic medicines that are highly reliable for treating urinary tract infection are Cantharis Vesicatoria, Apis Mellifica, Sarsaparilla Officinalis, Nitric acid, Sepia, Colibacillinum and Merc Cor.

1. Cantharis Vesicatoria – For Extreme Pain / Burning Before, During and After Urination

Cantharis Vesicatoria is among the primary medicines for treating urinary tract infection. The key symptom to look out for while prescribing Cantharis Vesicatoria is intense pain or burning before, during or after urination. There is a constant urge to urinate. Scanty urine or urine passed in drops from UTI is also best treated with Cantharis Vesicatoria. At times, blood in the urine can also be seen.

When to use Cantharis Vesicatoria?
The most striking feature to use this medicine is pain / burning sensation — before, during and after urination, along with frequent desire to pass urine.

How to use Cantharis Vesicatoria?
Cantharis is best suited in 30C potency. It can be repeated 2 times in a day.

2. Apis Mellifica – For Severe Burning, Stinging While Passing Urine

Apis Mellifica is the next important medicine for urinary tract infection. The person requiring Apis Mellifica will complain of burning or stinging pain while passing urine, especially last drops of urine causing intense burning. There is also bladder tenesmus (sensation of incomplete bladder emptying even when there is no urine left behind in the bladder). In some cases, blood appears in urine.

When to use Apis Mellifica?
It can be used when there is burning, stinging sensation while passing urine mainly when passing last drops of urine.

How to use Apis Mellifica?
It can be taken in low 30C potency that can only be repeated twice in a day. It is also used in 200C but in order to do so, one should carefully look for the symptoms and not repeat it frequently.

3. Sarsaparilla Officinalis– For Intense Burning Towards The End Of Urination

To treat UTI with intense burning when a person finishes urination, Sarsaparilla Officinalis is the most reliable medicine. Other accompanying characteristics for use of Sarsaparilla are – scanty urine, urine with pus and blood and pain in the urethra extending to the abdomen.

When to use Sarsaparilla Officinalis?
The key guiding symptom for the use of Sarsaparilla Officinalis is unbearable pain after the urination is done.

How to use Sarsaparilla Officinalis?
It is recommended mainly in 30C power that can be repeated depending on the severity of the symptoms but not more than 3 times in a day.

4. Nitric Acid – For Burning During Urination With Foul Smelling Urine

Nitric Acid is one of the most effective medicines for urinary tract infection where the major symptoms include burning while passing urine that is highly offensive (foul-smelling) like horse’s urine. Urine is scanty, cloudy, dark or bloody.

When to use Nitric Acid?
This remedy is best suited to patients who have foul smelling urine passed with burning and stinging pain.

How to use Nitric Acid?
It works well in low potency i.e. 30C, normally use of this medicine is limited to once to twice in a day. Higher potencies are not recommended until a physician asks you to do so.

5. Sepia – For UTI In Women

Sepia is rated among the most beneficial medicines for treating urinary tract infection in women. Sepia is prescribed when there is cutting pain in the bladder and there is a feeling of the pubic area getting pushed down. The urinary stream is weak and the urine smells bad. Sepia is also very useful in cases of chronic cystitis (bladder inflammation). It is also recognized as the best medicine for urinary tract infection in women going through menopause.

When to use Sepia?
Sepia is a highly recommended medicine for UTI in females to manage symptoms of painful urination with a feeling of pubic area getting pushed down. It works great in chronic bladder inflammation.

How to use Sepia?
It gives remarkable results in 30C potency that can be administered once a day.

6. Colibacillinum – For Escherichia Coli (E.coli) Positive UTI

For urinary tract infection that tests positive for Escherichia coli bacteria, Colibacillinum is the best medicine. The symptoms to use it include an urge to pass urine frequently, scanty urination and pain while passing urine. The urine may smell. Blood in urine is noted in certain cases.

When to use Colibacillinum?
This remedy is specific for cases of urinary tract infections with Escherichia coli (E. coli) Positive culture report with symptoms of painful, frequent urination.

How to use Colibacillinum?
It is advisable to use it in lower potency 30C only once a day. If there is no improvement, it is strongly recommended to consult a homeopathic physician.

7. Merc Cor – For Hot Urine Passed In Drops With Severe Pain

It is an excellent medicine for cases having hot urine passed in drops with intense pain. There is frequent almost a constant urge to pass urine with this. Severe burning is also felt in the urethra along with these symptoms.

When to use Merc Cor?
Passage of hot urine in drops with severe pain is the most remarkable symptom guiding use of this medicine.

How to use Merc Cor?
One may take this medicine one or two times a day in 30 C power.

Note The above-listed medicines can be taken for 1-2 weeks. If the symptoms still persist, it is best to consult a homeopath before taking it further or using high potencies (200C, 1M or higher).

Pathophysiology And Causes Of UTI

A urinary tract infection arises when bacteria gain access to the urinary tract and begin to multiply there. Escherichia coli, commonly known as E.coli, (a type of bacteria commonly found in Gastrointestinal tract, GI) is the most common bacteria infecting the urinary tract. The bacteria mainly enter the urinary tract via the urethra and gut. Other less commonly known bacteria causing UTI are Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas and Klebsiella.
Cystitis is mainly caused by Escherichia coli (E coli), 90 % of bladder infections are caused by E coli, however, sometimes other bacteria are also responsible.
Urethritis: This type of UTI occurs when GI bacteria spread from the anus to the urethra. Also because urethra in females is close to vagina, sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhoea, herpes, Chlamydia and mycoplasma can cause urethritis.

Risk factors include:
Suppressed immune system: People who suffer from conditions like diabetes (high blood sugar) are more likely to develop UTIs because their bodies are less capable of fighting infection effectively.
Obstruction in the urinary tract: Prostatitis, or obstruction of the urethra by an enlarged prostate, can cause insufficient bladder emptying in men which raises the risk of infection. Most elderly men experience it.
Usage of Catheter– People who are unable to urinate on their own and use a tube(catheter) to pass urine are at more risk of developing UTI.

Risk Factors specific to women
Women are more likely to contract this disease. Risk factors specific to women for UTI are mentioned here:
1. Anatomy of female urethra: The length of urethra is short and its orifice being quite close to the anus in women, makes it easier for the bacteria to spread to the bladder. This leads to higher chances of acquiring a urinary tract infection in women as compared to men.
2. Menopause: After menopause, there is a decline in circulating oestrogen that causes changes in the urinary tract that makes the females more prone to UTI. Some women have urinary tracts that make the bacteria easy to cling to and are genetically prone to UTIs.
3. Sexual activity: Sexually active women suffer from UTI more times than women who are not sexually active.
4. Birth control agents: Women using diaphragms for birth control and also those using spermicidal agents are at higher risk of UTI.

Symptoms Of UTI

Lower UTI Symptoms: It affects urinary bladder and urethra, the symptoms are:
1. The most typical symptom is burning or pain when urinating.
2. Increased urinary frequency without passing much urine.
3. Strong need or urge to urinate but only producing a few drops of urine.
4. Urine has a foul odour and is cloudy.
5. Non-visible or visible haematuria (urine can appear bloody)
6. Pain in the lower back, lower abdomen, and even the pelvic region will typically make you feel the need to urinate more frequently.

Upper UTI Symptoms: It affects kidneys, the symptoms are:
1. Fever and chills
2. Nausea and Vomiting
3. Flank Pain (pain on either side of lower back between pelvis and ribs)
If the bacteria moves from the infected kidney to the blood, it can be life threatening, the condition is termed as ‘urosepsis’ which can cause extremely low blood pressure, shock and death.

How to diagnose UTI?

In cases presented with symptoms of acute UTI, a simple test of routine urine examination is the first step. In this test a sample of urine is tested in the laboratory. If pus cells are revealed in the urine report of this test then it means UTI is present. Next recommended test is a urine culture test in which a sample of urine is checked in the lab for growth of any bacteria that might be causing this urinary tract infection. In cases of recurrent UTI an ultrasound may be recommended to check for any issues in bladder and kidneys.

Sabadilla Officinalis – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 3 Comments

Sabadilla Officinalis is sourced from plant Cebadilla. It belongs to the family melanthaceae (of the liliaceae). The seeds of the plant Cebadilla are subjected to potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines that extracts and intensifies its medicinal properties). Following this process, homeopathic remedy Sabadilla Officinalis is obtained which is of great service to treat nasal allergies, colds and recurrent sneezing.

Drug Action

This medicine principally acts on the mucus membrane of nose. Its action is also felt on lachrymal glands, throat, gastric tract, anus, head, eyes, skin and nerves.

Clinical Indications

Nasal allergy, sneezing, cold, runny nose, sore throat, lachrymation, blue rings around eyes, headache, itchy scalp, worm infestation, stomach pain, cough, earache, noises in ear, dry skin.

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Nose (Nasal Allergy, Sneezing, Runny Nose, Cold)

This medicine has an extensive action on the mucus membrane of nose. It treats complaints of nasal allergies, cold, influenza, runny nose, sneezing and nasal itching. It is one of the best homeopathic medicine for cases of nasal allergy also known as hay fever. It is a nasal condition in which cold-like symptoms occur, like runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes that happen from an over-reaction of immune cells to harmless substances like pollen, dust etc in a person having allergic tendency. Sabadilla is well indicated when there is runny nose, profuse watery nasal discharge along with sneezing. Tickling, tingling or itching in nose may be felt. Additionally, redness of eyes and watering from eyes may be there. At a given time, either of the two nostrils is blocked which causes difficulty in breathing. Snoring is experienced by the person. Next, frontal pain in head attends. Another peculiar indication for using this remedy is cold with runny nose/sneezing which get worse from strong odour like perfumes.

Key indicating features

Nasal allergy with runny nose, sneezing and nasal itching

Cold with frontal headache

Cold with runny nose/sneezing from strong odours

2. Throat (Sore Throat, Tonsillitis)

With its action on throat, it offers great help in managing cases of chronic sore throat. In most cases needing it, sore throat begins in the left side and then goes to the right side. The tonsils are swollen and inflamed. Pain in the throat is felt from empty swallowing. Cold air makes the complaint worse. Relief is noted by taking warm food or warm drinks. Stitching pain in throat is experienced while swallowing. There is feeling of a lump in the throat and person has constant desire to swallow it. Sometimes, a sensation of skin hanging loosely in throat is felt. Occasionally, it feels as if a morsel of food has got stuck in the throat leading to cough. The throat may feel dry or there can be tough phlegm in throat with need to hawk.

Key indicating features

Sore throat beginning on left side then going to the right side

Sore throat worse from cold air and better from warm drinks/food

3. Gastric Ailments (Worms, Stomach Pain)

Sabadilla is effective in dealing with gastric ailments. Firstly, it is used to treat worms, mostly tapeworms, pin worms and ascarides worms. It gives substantial relief in itching and crawling sensation felt in the anus due to worms. It also helps in easing the burning sensation or pain felt in navel region. There may be changes in the bowel movement. The stool can be hard and scanty or there may occur diarrhea with loose, brown and frothy stool. Pinching pain around navel and loud rumbling can be felt before passing stool. There may be burning sensation in abdomen and rectum after passing stool. Sometimes, blood passes with stool. There is excessive passage of gas. Other than these, Sabadilla is indicated to manage twisting/ turning type of pain in abdomen. Rest of the symptoms include bloating, cutting type of pain in the intestine, abdomen pain with a characteristic sensation of a ball moving in the abdomen, burning sensation in stomach and food pipe, and loss of appetite.

Key indicating features

Worm infestations include tapeworm, pin worms, ascarides worms

Itching, crawling sensation in the anus

Pain in navel region in cases of worms

4. Cough

This medicine has also shown clinical improvement in cases of cough. Sabadilla mostly helps in cases of dry cough that arises from roughness or scratchiness or scraping in throat. Coughing mostly worsens at night, as soon as a person lies down. In some cases, pain at the top of head (vertex) is felt along with cough. Sweating, vomiting and watering from eyes are other accompanying symptoms. Difficulty in breathing, burning sensation in chest and wheezing may also happen. Sabadilla can also be given for cough that worsens from cold.

Key indicating features

Cough arising from roughness or scratchiness in throat

Cough worsening at night, as soon as one lies down and from cold

5. Ears (Earache, Noises In Ears)

This medicine also acts on ears where it is beneficial to manage cases of ear pain, noises in ears (tinnitus), itching in ears. Along with pain in the ear, there is pressure on the ear. Mostly stitching pain especially in left ear is felt. In case of tinnitus, a person hears humming or gurgling noises in ear. There can be difficulty in hearing too.

Key indicating features

Pain in ear with pressure sensation

Humming, gurgling noises in ears

6. Eyes (Redness Of Eyelids, Lachrymation, Blue Rings)

In case of eyes, Sabadilla can be given to manage redness of eyelids attended with burning sensation. Next, it can be used for excessive watering from eyes (lachrymation) while coughing, sneezing or walking in open air. It is also beneficial for cases of blue rings around the eyes.

Key indicating features

Redness and burning of eyelids

Lachrymation during sneezing, coughing and walking in open air

7. Head (Headache, Itchy Scalp)

Sabadilla is a useful medicine to manage headache. It is mainly preferred to manage headache that occurs with cold. The pain, in this case, is frequently experienced in frontal part of head. There may be heaviness in the head usually in forehead and sides of head (temporal region) in case of nasal allergy. Next peculiar indication to use it is headache that follows excessive thinking or some intellectual thinking. The pain occurs on one side of the head or on alternating sides. It gets better by eating. Sabadilla can be given in cases of itching and burning on the scalp, crawling sensation can also be felt.

Key indicating symptoms

Headache in frontal part of head with cold

Headache from overthinking and intellectual work

8. Skin Complaints (Dry Skin, Crawling Sensation)

Last sphere of action of Sabadilla is skin where it is useful for dry skin. Burning sensation on skin can be present. It is also effective in managing crawling sensation like that of ants. Lastly, it works well in cases of thick, horny, deformed nails.

Key indicating features

Creeping, crawling sensation on skin

Thick, horny, deformed nails

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints are worse from cold air, cold drinks, strong odors, and mental exertion

Relieving factors: Complaints are better from warm food and drinks, heat, being wrapped up

Dosage

This medicine works well in both low and high potencies. In low potency like 30C, one may take it frequently around two to three times a day. But in high potency like 200C, 1M frequent repetition should be avoided.

Relationship With Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Camphor, Conium, Lachesis, Lycopodium and Pulsatilla

Followed well by Arsenic Album, Belladonna, Merc Sol, Nux Vomica, Pulsatilla

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Sciatica

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 140 Comments

Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that begins in the lower back and travels down the lower limbs traversing the root of the sciatic nerve. It is caused by irritation and compression of the sciatic nerve which is the largest nerve in the human body. It originates in the lower back and runs down the hips, back of the legs, and down to the feet. There is one sciatic nerve on either side of the body and any one of them may be affected when pain is experienced.

Natural and Safe

Homeopathy is a well-renowned system of healing that works wonders in treating various kinds of nerve pains including sciatica. Homeopathic medicines, which are natural and safe, work on the root cause of sciatica for complete, effective healing and cure. These can effectively manage sciatica pain and its other attending symptoms such as numbness, tingling and burning sensation.

Homeopathic medicines are selected individually for every case of sciatica to provide relief. Various factors are kept in mind while prescribing a homeopathic medicine in these cases such as the side of pain, the nature of pain, factors that make the pain worse or better, time when it increases or decreases, any associated symptoms like numbness or tingling and the underlying cause.

Relief in Acute/Chronic Sciatica

Homeopathic medicines can treat acute as well as chronic sciatica cases. In acute cases, homeopathic medicines offer immediate relief in symptoms. In chronic cases, it relieves the symptoms and helps to reduce the intensity and frequency of recurrent episodes of pain and other associated symptoms if the prescribed course of homeopathic treatment is followed for the recommended time. Being free of side effects, homeopathy has an advantage over the conventional method of treatment that uses painkillers, muscle relaxants, and corticosteroids in sciatica cases which carry the risk of side effects due to consumption over a long period. With the use of homeopathic medicines, the dependency on conventional medicines is reduced significantly.

Homeopathy works on treating the root cause of sciatica like disc bulge, disc degeneration, bony spurs, an injury, and muscle spasm to reduce the irritation or pressure on the sciatica nerve. This leads to excellent recoveries in sciatica cases. However, the results vary from case to case depending on the severity and chronicity of the complaints and the presence of complications if any.

In many cases of sciatica, surgery may be recommended. However, homeopathic consultation, if taken on time, could prevent surgical intervention in many cases of sciatica of mild to moderate intensity.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines For Sciatica

Some well-recognized homeopathic medicines for sciatica are Colocynthis, Magnesium Phosphorica, Gnaphalium, Rhus Tox, Bryonia Alba and Hypericum.

1. Colocynthis – For Sciatica Of Left Side

Colocynthis is known to greatly benefit left-sided sciatica. It is indicated when a person complains of pain along the course of the left sciatic nerve. The pain starts in the lower back and radiates down the leg to the toes. In some cases, the pain is located in the left hip, or pain in the hip radiates to the knee. The pain may be drawing/tearing/ shooting in nature. In some cases, it may be lightning, shock-like, or cramping. Pressure application may provide relief. Lying on the left side also offers relief in some cases. Some persons requiring Colocynthis may also get relief from warm applications.

When to use Colocynthis?

Its use is advised in patients with left-sided sciatica pain especially when the pain is reduced by pressing the affected area and applying warmth.

How to use Colocynthis?

Colocynthis works wonders in 30C potency. This potency requires frequent repetition, 2-3 times in a day. It also works well in higher potencies like 200C and 1M but it is advisable to consult your homeopathic physician before using higher potencies.

2. Magnesia Phosphorica – For Sciatica Of Right Side

Magnesia Phosphorica is a reliable prescription for right-sided sciatica. The sciatica pain is cutting/ shooting/ stabbing or stitching in nature. Pain starts in the lower back and extends down the right hip, thigh, the hollow of knee and leg. Pressure or warm applications may offer relief. In some cases, uncovering the lower limb worsen the pain.

When to use Magnesia Phosphorica?

Magnesia Phosphorica is indicated for sciatica pain on the right side. The pain worsens while uncovering the lower limb and gets better with pressure and warm applications.

How to use Magnesia Phosphorica?

It can be referred to as a homeopathic pain reliever. It is commonly used in biochemical form in ‘6X potency’, and is taken in tablet form 3-4 times a day.

3. Gnaphalium Polycephalum – For Sciatica With Pain And Numbness

Gnaphalium Polycephalum is the most useful medicine for sciatica pain attended with numbness. It is also indicated where sciatica pain alternates with numbness. Folding thighs towards the abdomen provides some relief. Gnaphalium Polycephalum is also prescribed in sciatica cases where pain is confined to the calves and feet.

When to use Gnaphalium Polycephalum?

This medicine is an undoubted effective treatment for sciatica when pain is accompanied with numbness.

How to use Gnaphalium Polycephalum?

In the beginning, its use is suggested in 30C potency and can be repeated twice a day. Its higher potencies are also available but normally, higher potencies are not to be repeated very often.

4. Bryonia Alba – For Sciatica That Worsens While Walking

Bryonia Alba is the most effective homeopathic medicine for sciatica that gets worse while walking. The slightest motion may worsen sciatica in such cases. Lying down still provides some relief. Bryonia Alba is also prescribed when the person feels relief by lying down on the affected side. The hip and leg of the affected side may feel heavy. The pain is tearing in nature from the hip through the back of the thigh and into the calf.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

The main feature of using this medicine is sciatica pain getting worse with the slightest movement but gets better by rest.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

Its lower potency 30C can be used up to 3-4 times in a day.

5. Rhus Tox – For Sciatica That Becomes Painful With Rest

For sciatica pain that gets bad at rest or while sitting, Rhus Tox is the ideal prescription. Lying on the painful side could worsen the pain in such cases. Walking or movement of the affected limb offers relief. Along with severe pain, a burning sensation may be felt in the lower limbs. Rhus Tox also works wonderfully well in treating sciatica that arises from lifting any heavy weight. There is a cramp-like pain in the leg. The patient cannot sit in one position for a long time.

When to use Rhus Tox?

This medicine is prescribed based on the hallmark feature that sciatica pain is worse at rest and gets better with movement. Also, it is indicated for sciatica resulting from lifting any heavy weight.

How to use Rhus Tox?

Its 30C potency can be repeated up to 3-4 times in a day. It is equally effective in 200C and 1M potency but symptoms should be carefully monitored before using these potencies.

6. Hypericum – To manage sciatica occurring after an injury

Hypericum is top-grade medicine when it comes to managing sciatica occurring after an injury. persons who need this medicine often complain of sharp cutting pain in the lower back extending down the legs. A pricking sensation as if occurring from needles can be felt in the feet. In some cases, numbness can be felt in the leg on the left side.

When to use Hypericum?

This medicine can be used as first choice of medicine in cases of sciatica that results from an injury.

How to use Hypericum?

Among its different potencies one may begin with its 30C potency twice or thrice a day initially.

Note You may use the above-mentioned 30C potency after closely monitoring the symptoms but do not self-medicate with higher potencies i.e. 200C and 1M. If no improvement is observed, it is best to consult a homeopath to decide whether the change of potency is required or not.

Causes Of Sciatica

The causes of sciatica could be many, the main among these are as follows:

A disc bulge or a herniated disc: Disc bulge of lower spine can cause pinching, compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. This is the most common cause of sciatica.

Degeneration of the spinal disc: It is the natural wearing down of disc between the vertebrae of spine. This results in shortening the height of vertebrae and resulting in narrowing of nerve passageways (spinal stenosis).

Stenosis (narrowing) of the spinal canal: This can lead to reduction in the space available for the spinal cord and nerves.

Osteoarthritis: Bone spurs (pointed edges of bone) can form in spines in old age and can compress nerves of lower back.

Spondylolisthesis: It is the slipping of a vertebra which makes it is out of sync with the one above it, as a result there is narrowing of the opening through which the nerve exits. The extended spinal bone can pinch the sciatic nerve.

Piriformis syndrome: Piriformis muscle is a small muscle that lies deep in the buttocks. Tightening or spasm of this muscle is called Piriformis syndrome that can put pressure and can irritate sciatic nerve.

Tumor in the spine: It causes the compression of sciatic nerve.

Symptoms Of Sciatica

Pain: Sciatica is characterized by pain that travels from the lower (lumbar) spine to the buttock and down the back of your leg. The lower back, buttock, and the back of your thigh and calf are likely to experience pain.

Numbness: There is numbness in legs, feet, buttocks, or lower back may feel numb or weak.

Loss Of Movement: There is less movement and pain that gets worse if the person makes an effort to move.

Pin Needle Sensation: One can experience a feeling of pricking by pins and needles in feet, toes, or legs.

Burning Sensation: Constant or episodic burning sensation down the leg.

Risk Factors For Sciatica

Injury: The chance of developing sciatica increases if you suffer a lower back or spine injury.

Age: The bone tissue and discs in the spine naturally deteriorate as you age. With normal ageing, changes and shifts in bone, discs, and ligaments can put the spinal nerves at risk of being hurt or pinched.

Obesity: Excess body weight can increase stress on the spine. This results in changes in the spine that trigger sciatica.

Prolonged Sitting: The chances of developing sciatica is more common in people who sit for long hours or have sedentary lifestyle than active people.

Diabetes: Your chance of developing nerve damage is increased by this disorder, which alters how your body uses blood sugar.

Smoking: The nicotine in tobacco can weaken bones, cause injury to the spine, and hasten the degeneration of vertebral discs.

Lack Of Proper Posture: Even if you are physically healthy and active, sciatica can still occur if you lift weights improperly or perform other vigorous strength training exercises.

How to diagnose cases of sciatica?

A doctor is able to diagnose sciatica based on the symptom picture and a physical examination. He may check for pain occurring while walking, or rising after squatting. He may also perform a very common test done to diagnose sciatica clinically i.e. SLR test (straight leg raise test). In this test, a doctor asks the sufferer to lie on the table on your back with straight legs. The doctor then slowly raises one leg at a time towards the roof and asks you to tell when you start feeling the pain. This test is considered positive if pain is felt between 30 and 70 degrees when the leg is raised. In cases with severe pain, the doctor may recommend X-ray or MRI to find the underlying cause, like disc herniation and nerve pinching.

Magnesia Phosphorica – Homeopathic medicine: Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 13 Comments

The remedy Magnesia Phosphorica is derived from magnesium phosphate which is inert in its crude state. When it goes through potentization process (process of preparing homeopathic medicines through which medicinal properties of a crude substance are aroused), it gets converted into homeopathic medicine Magnesia Phosphorica of great use. It is one among the 12 biochemic medicines in homeopathy called Schuessler’s twelve tissue remedies. It is the most hepful in managing stomach cramps, menstrual cramps, muscle pain, nerve pain and sciatica.

The ‘Magnesia Phosphorica’ Constitution

This medicine suits persons who feel tired and exhausted. It is best suited to young people and also to babies during teething.

Drug Action

Magnesia Phosphorica has its most remarkable action on the gastric system, female genitals, limbs, muscles and nerves. It acts well on the neck, back, eyes, face, and teeth.

Clinical Indications

Abdomen, pain, stomach cramps, colic, painful menses, sciatica, neuralgia (nerve pains), facial neuralgia, cramps, writer’s cramp, headache, Parkinson’s disease, toothache, vaginismus

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Gastric Issues (Abdomen Pain, Stomach Cramps, Diarrhea)

Magnesia Phosphorica has wide action on the gastric system to manage various gastric problems. To begin with, it is a magnificent medicine to help cases of abdomen pain, stomach cramps and colic. The pain may get better by applying warm applications, bending double (upper body bent forward and downward) and applying pressure. Magnesia Phos is very beneficial for flatulent colic (pain caused by accumulation of gas in the abdomen) which causes fullness and bloating in the abdomen. It is also well indicated to relieve abdomen pain caused due to gas in babies. Other than this, it is also useful in treating cutting/ cramping/ shooting pain in the stomach. There may be relief from burping. A person may also feel nausea and vomiting. Magnesia Phos can be used when pain is felt around the navel that radiates to the back. This medicine can also be given for treating cases of diarrhea (loose stool). Its use is preferred when loose stool is attended with vomiting and cramping pain in the calf muscles in the back of the lower leg.

Key indicating features

Abdomen pain better from bending double, pressure and warmth

Pain in abdomen from gas accumulation

2. For Pain Management

Magnesia Phos is a top-listed medicine to manage pain of different types. Firstly, it is a marvellous medicine for relief in muscle pain and nerve pain (neuralgia). The nature of pain to use it can be shooting/ cutting/ sharp/ stitching/cramping type. Pain can be wandering that changes its location rapidly from one place to another. Pain gets worse at night and better after taking rest. The nerve pain gets better by applying heat. Most of the time, pain is located on the right side of the body. Magnesia Phosphorica is very effective in managing abdomen pain that gets better by bending double, applying pressure and warmth. Pain during periods and menstrual cramps can be managed wonderfully. One feels relieved by bending double and hot applications.

Key indicating features

Pain in muscles and nerves, worse at night, better from rest

Abdomen pain relieved by bending double, pressure and warmth

Painful periods when pain gets better by bending double and warm applications

3. Female Problems (Painful Periods, Ovary Pain, Vaginismus)

This medicine proves very effective in getting rid of many female problems. It is one of the best medicines for painful periods. Magnesia Phos manages menstrual cramps well and females requiring it may feel better by bending double and from hot applications. They may also have early menses with dark stringy blood flow. Magnesia Phos is a prominent medicine to deal with ovarian pain which is shooting/darting in nature. It is worse on the right side. Use of this medicine is also considered to treat vaginismus which is involuntary contraction of vaginal muscles when something is trying to enter it.

Key indicating features

Menstrual cramps better from bending double and warmth

Ovarian pain of shooting, darting type

Vaginismus

4. Limbs (Sciatica, Cramps, Joint Pain, Parkinson’s Disease)

It is an important medicine to manage numerous complaints related to limbs. Firstly, it is highly recommended to manage sciatica. Pain along sciatic nerve that begins in lower back and radiates down the hip, down the back of thighs and legs up to feet is called sciatica. Magnesia Phos works well in right-sided sciatica where feet are very tender (pain on touching). Secondly, it is a top-listed medicine to manage cramps. It gives good results in cases of cramps in legs and feet which occur mainly at night while in bed. Its use is also suggested for cramps that follow after any kind of exertion. Another main indication for its use is writer’s cramp (a disorder characterized by involuntary contraction of muscles of hands and fingers while writing). This medicine can be used to treat joint pain as well which is very severe. Lastly, Magnesia Phos gives good results in cases of Parkinson’s Disease with involuntary shaking of hands. Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the nervous system that starts with shaking of one hand at rest followed by other symptoms like slowing down of movements, rigid muscles, impaired posture, balance issues and changes in speech.

Key indicating features

Right-sided sciatica

Cramps in limbs after exertion and at night

Writer’s cramp

5. Eyes (Twitchings, Ptosis, Squint, Nystagmus, Supraorbital Pain)

Magnesia Phos can manage eyelid twitching (repetitive involuntary contraction of muscles) medically known as blepharospasm. It is also useful for supraorbital pain (felt above the eyebrow) on the right side which gets relieved by warmth. Its use is next considered in cases of ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid). It can be used in cases of squint (strabismus) also. Another indication to use Magnesia Phosphorica is nystagmus which means involuntary, repetitive eye movement.

Key indicating features

Eyelid twitching

Pain above right eyebrow better from warm applications

Ptosis (drooping of upper eyelid)

6. Face (Pain, Neuralgia, Twitching)

Magnesia Phos proves very effective in treating cases of facial neuralgia (nerve pain) of right side. There is shooting/ cramping/darting pain on the right side of the face . It gets worse on opening the mouth and by washing face with cold water. Magnesia Phos can be of great benefit for treating trigeminal neuralgia when even the slightest touch causes pain. Trigeminal neuralgia refers to severe electric shock-like pain in the face due to pressure on the trigeminal nerve or its damage/injury. Another characteristic feature to use Magnesia Phos is twitching (involuntary muscle contraction) of the facial muscles.

Key indicating features

Right-sided facial pain of cramping/darting/shooting type

Trigeminal neuralgia worse from slightest touch

Twitching of facial muscles

7. Teeth (toothache)

If we talk of teeth complaints, Magnesia Phos is well indicated to manage toothache. It is used when toothache is better from warmth and drinking hot liquids. It is worse from eating cold food or drinking cold drinks. The teeth are sensitive to touch. If toothache is arising from decay of teeth, this medicine can prove very beneficial. Pain in the tooth that has undergone a recent filling can also be well managed with this remedy.

Key indicating features

Toothache worse from cold food and cold drinks, better from warmth and drinking hot liquids

Toothache in decayed teeth

8. Neck And Back (Pain)

Lastly, it acts well on neck and back. It gives good relief in cases of pain and stiffness of neck. The pain in neck is sharp, shooting type where it is indicated. The neck is also sore and painful on touch. Next, Magnesia Phos is beneficial in managing sore pain in the lower back. Cramps in the back may be present in cases needing it.

Key indicating features

Sharp, shooting pain in neck with stiffness

Sore pain or cramps in lower back

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints are worse at night, on right side, from cold air, from uncovering and exhaustion

Relieving factors: Complaints are better by bending double, from pressure, from warmth and from rubbing

Dosage

This medicine can be used from low to high potencies. Among these, the most frequently used potency is 6X potency which can be taken three to four times a day depending on the severity of the problem. It works best when taken by dissolving tablets in hot water.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Belladonna, Gelsemium and Lachesis

It can be compared with other homeopathic medicines including Colocynth, Dioscorea, Chamomilla, Silicea and Zincum Met.

5 Best Homeopathic Medicines for Constipation

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 181 Comments

Constipation refers to an infrequent bowel movement or difficulty in passing stool. Infrequent bowel movement means passing less than three stools a week. Other indicative symptoms are hard stool, insufficient stool, unsatisfactory stool or a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation, strain on passing stool and in extreme cases, a need to use fingers to remove stool in small kids.

Homeopathy has proven to be highly effective in treating cases of constipation. Homeopathic medicines along with dietary and lifestyle management help magnificently in different constipation types ranging from passage of hard stool, to unsatisfactory stool, passing stools infrequently, to the sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation. Any associated symptoms like gas, bloating of the abdomen, pain in the abdomen, headache, and nausea are also taken care of with these medicines. Homeopathic medicines are suitable to treat constipation in persons of all age groups.

Homeopathy can treat constipation from the roots. Homeopathic medicines help to improve bowel movement which is sluggish in constipation cases. These also act as stool softeners thus preventing straining to pass stool and aiding easy and smooth stool passage.

Homeopathy is the best choice to offer a natural, safe treatment for cases of constipation as it uses natural remedies free of any chemicals and synthetic matter. Unlike mainstream medicine which uses laxatives to treat constipation and carries the risk of dependency, homeopathic medicines are non-habit-forming and under no circumstances cause any type of side effects. Once started, homeopathy will slowly and gradually reduce your dependency on laxatives.

Acute as well as chronic (long-term cases of constipation are known to respond wonderfully well to homeopathic treatment. Homeopathy is also highly beneficial to manage piles and anal fissures that may result from long-term constipation.

Homeopathy is a symptom-based science so to treat constipation medicines are to be selected as per peculiar and unique characteristic symptoms in each case of constipation. Therefore the homeopathic practitioner will study the symptoms in detail, identify and evaluate the important symptoms and then select the appropriate medicine that will suit any given case of constipation.

Top 5 Homeopathic Medicines for Constipation

The best medicines for treating constipation are Nux Vomica, Bryonia Alba, Alumina, Opium and Alumen.

1. Nux Vomica – For Constipation With Constant Ineffectual Urge For Stool

Nux Vomica is one of the most frequently used medicines for treating constipation with a constant ineffectual urge to pass stool. A person who needs Nux Vomica passes insufficient, scanty stool, very frequently. The stool is unsatisfactory. Even after passing stool many times a day, there is a never ‘got done’ feeling. Abdomen pain may arise along with constipation. Nux Vomica is also a good choice of medicine for treating constipation in persons with a sedentary lifestyle (inactive lifestyle with prolonged sitting with little or no physical activity). More importantly, it also effectively treats piles with constipation.

When to use Nux Vomica?

This medicine can be used in persons who have constipation with constant ineffectual urge to pass stool and even after passing stool several times a day, do not have a satisfactory feeling.

How to use Nux Vomica?

This medicine is used in different potencies like 30C, 200C, 1M. Initially, it is best to use Nux vomica 30C twice or thrice a day. Higher potencies can be used afterward after consulting a homeopathic doctor.

2. Bryonia Alba – For Dry, Hard, Stool In Lump Form

For constipation with a hard, dry stool that passes in lumps, Bryonia Alba is considered one of the best medicines. The stool is dry as if burnt and is passed with much difficulty. Abdominal distension is also noted in some cases. Headache due to constipation may also be effectively treated with Bryonia Alba.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

The main characteristic feature guiding use of Bryonia Alba is hard dry stool passed in lump form.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

Bryonia Alba 30C can be taken two to three times a day.

3. Alumina – For Constipation With No Urge To Pass Stool For Days

Alumina is another highly beneficial medicine when there is the absence of the urge to pass stool for days together. The person needing Alumina will go days without passing stool. The action of the intestine is extremely slow and sluggish. The stool is passed only when there is a large accumulation of fecal matter in the intestine. Another important symptom of using Alumina is excessive straining to pass stool even when the stool is soft. Alumina is also one of the majorly indicated medicines for constipation in children, infants (babies less than one year of age), bottle-fed babies, and elderly persons.

When to use Alumina?

Its use can be considered in persons who have no urge to pass stool for days together.

How to use Alumina?

The most frequently recommended dose of this medicine is Alumina 30C once or twice a day.

4. Opium – For Dry, Hard Stool In Form Of Balls

Opium works well in cases of constipation where the stool is hard, dry, and passed in a ball-like form. There is also a lack of urge to pass stool. In addition, Opium is also the medicine for constipation where the person has been taking laxatives (medicines that increase bowel movement and relieve constipation) to pass stool for a long time.

When to use Opium?

This medicine can be used when stool is hard, dry and passed in ball-like form.

How to use Opium?

One may use this medicine in 30C potency once or twice a day.

5. Alumen – For Extremely Hard Stool Like Stone

Alumen is a well-indicated medicine for constipation when stool is extremely hard like a stone. Passing of stool is very difficult and is attended with some blood in it. After passing stool, intense pain is felt in the rectum.

When to use Alumen?

Alumen is the best choice of medicine when the stool is exceedingly hard like a stone.

How to use Alumen?

Though it can be used in both low and high potencies, the most commonly used is 30C potency. Alumen 30C can be taken two to three times a day.

Note One can take the above medicines for constipation for about one to two months in the above-mentioned doses only. Always consider the advice of a homeopathic expert if no improvement is seen, or to continue taking these beyond 2 months, or if you wish to increase the potency/dose.

Causes and Pathophysiology

Our colon (large intestine) is 3 to 5 feet long and its wall is lined by muscle layers. The colon absorbs water and salts from the waste received from the small intestine creating a solid matter stool, storing stool until it is expelled from the body, and muscle contractions in the colon propel the stool towards the rectum to be thrown out of the body. Several nerves and hormones control the motility of the colon. When the stool fills and distends the rectum, the internal anal sphincter relaxes and the need to defecate is felt. This is followed by the contraction of rectal muscles and simultaneous relaxation of the external anal sphincter and puborectalis muscle that opens the anus and expels stool. Constipation can occur if the muscle contractions of colon are slow and sluggish which gives the colon more time to absorb water from waste resulting in dry and hard stool which is difficult to push out. Also, constipation can arise if there is a problem with the nerves that signal contraction of the colon and rectum and control muscles required for defection, or there is some blockage in the colon or rectum.

Predisposing Factors Behind Constipation

Many factors predispose a person to constipation. A diet low in fiber, a sedentary lifestyle and decreased physical activity, decreased liquid intake, old age, taking calcium/iron supplements, overuse of medicines (such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and laxatives) and stress also predispose one towards constipation. It is a common complaint among women during pregnancy. Medical conditions linked with constipation are diabetes mellitus, spinal cord lesions, hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), depression, and irritable bowel syndrome (a disorder of the large intestine that causes constipation or diarrhea or an alternation between these along with gas, bloating, and stomach cramps)

Are There Any Other Associated Symptoms With Constipation?

Yes, several different symptoms may cause constipation. These are gas in the abdomen, bloating or distension of the abdomen, pain in the abdomen, headache, and nausea. Bleeding may occur while passing stool due to fissures/piles as a result of constipation or from passing hard stool. Other attending features include pain and burning sensation in the rectum while passing stool which may continue even after passing stool.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.Does long-standing constipation lead to complications?

Yes, long-standing constipation may lead to piles, anal fissures, and rectal prolapse. Abdominal hernia (inguinal hernia/umbilical hernia) may also arise from long-standing constipation. Piles refers to swollen and dilated veins in the rectal canal or anus. An anal fissure refers to a tear in the tissue lining of the anus. Rectal prolapse refers to the protrusion of a part or the entire rectum from the anus. An abdominal hernia is the protrusion of an organ through the abdominal wall or cavity which normally contains it.

2. I pass a hard stool with blood, what could the cause be?

Passing a hard stool with blood points towards two conditions –anal fissures or piles. Kindly consult a physician to confirm the diagnosis.

3. In my case, constipation is accompanied by a lot of gas and distension of the abdomen. What does that indicate?

Excessive gas and distended abdomen with constipation could indicate irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which is a functional bowel disorder without any pathological changes in bowels. In irritable bowel syndrome, constipation/diarrhea can predominate or alternate. Other symptoms include a bloated abdomen, gas, cramps in the abdomen, and mucus in stool. Kindly check with a physician for confirmation.

Benzoic Acid – Homeopathic medicine: Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 5 Comments

The remedy Benzoic Acid is derived from benzoicum acidum which is obtained by sublimation from gum benzoin or from some aromatic hydrocarbons. When benzoicum acidum is potentised as per homeopathic formula which is a process of arousing the latent medicinal properties from a crude substance, we obtain a highly valuable homeopathic medicine Benzoic Acid. It is a highly recommended medicine for treating gout (inflamed joints from increased uric acid level) and some urinary problems.

The ‘Benzoic Acid’ Constitution

This medicine suits persons who have a tendency to suffer from joint inflammation due to high uric acid (gout).

Drug Action

The supreme action of this medicine is witnessed on the joints mainly joint inflammation arising from high uric acid. Benzoic Acid shows marked action on urinary organs. A strong offensive-smelling urine is a key symptom highly noteworthy for its use. Besides, its action is seen on the limbs, gastric system and lungs.

Clinical Indications

Gout, toe pain, knee pain, bunions, ganglion, foul-smelling urine, bed-wetting, kidney stones, kidney disorders, diarrhea, asthma

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Action On Joints (Gout)

It is predominantly a medicine to treat joint inflammation. It is a top-grade homeopathic medicine for gout treatment. Gout refers to inflamed, painful, red, swollen and warm joints due to increased uric acid level. Firstly, it gives excellent results when the joints are red, swollen and sensitive to touch. Cracking sound from the joints on movement occurs. Nodes on joints, which are painful, are formed due to high uric acid. Benzoic Acid works well in cases where gouty pain gets worse at night. Its use is highly recommended for pain in the thumb toe of the foot which is tearing type. Mostly, right-side toe is affected where Benzoic Acid is required. Swelling in thumb toe is marked. Benzoic Acid is also suggested for knee joint pain along with swelling. It is also useful for swelling in the fingers and the elbow joint as well.

Key indicating features

1. Gout (inflamed joints due to increased uric acid levels)

2. Red, swollen and sensitive joints in gout

3. Pain and swelling in great toe and knee

2. Limbs (Ganglion, Bunion, Achilles Tendon Pain, Panaritium)

This medicine acts well on the limbs to treat certain complaints. First, it treats ganglion which is a round lump filled with jelly-like fluid that commonly develops on the back of the wrist.

Bunion

Benzoic Acid proves to be highly effective to dissolve ganglion of the wrist. Second, it is a beneficial medicine for cases of bunion which is a bony bump forming on the joint at the base of the big toe. Third, it relieves pain in the Achilles tendon (a tough fibrous band that connects calf muscle in the back of leg to the heel bone). This pain may begin on the right side and then move to the left side. It gets worse by standing or walking which puts pressure on the foot . In cases needing it, the feet may be cold with cold sweat. Benzoic Acid is an important medicine for treating panaritium which is an infection or inflammation of tissue with pus formation near a fingernail.

Key indicating features

1. Ganglion of wrist

2. Bunion (bony bump on the joint at the base of big toe)

3. Urinary Issues (Offensive Urine, Bedwetting, Kidney Stones, Cystitis, Nephritis, Kidney Pain, Enlarged Prostate)

Benzoic Acid shows the best action on urinary organs. The most important characteristic for its use is highly offensive (foul–smelling) urine like the urine of horse. It is hot and dark brown. Benzoic Acid is highly recommended for treating kidney stones. Another complaint where it proves beneficial is bed-wetting. In such cases, urine is very offensive and stains the bed sheets brown. It is also capable to deal with cases of cystitis (means inflammation of urinary bladder). Benzoic Acid can be used for managing cases of nephritis (inflammation of kidneys) too. It relieves kidney pain attended with red urine having strong smell. There is light pain in the kidneys. In left side kidney, burning pain is felt. On stooping, shooting pain occurs in the kidneys. Lastly, it works well for managing enlarged prostate. Here it is used when there is difficult urination, and mucus and pus appear in the urine.

Key indicating features

1. Highly offensive strong smelling urine, as foul as horse urine

2. Bed-wetting with strong-smelling urine staining the bed sheets brown

3. Kidney pain attended with red urine having strong smell

4. Gastric Problems (Pain Around Navel, Diarrhea)

With its action on the gastric system, it proves to be successful in alleviating pain around the navel. For recommending Benzoic Acid, the pain around navel is cutting type which gets better after passing stool. Heat in the stomach may also be there. There may be vomiting of bitter or salty taste. It can be helpful in managing stitching type of pain in the liver region. It is well indicated to manage diarrhea. There is watery, profuse stool that looks greyish white and is frothy with a very strong offensive smell. Before passing stool, a person feels chilly. Stitching pain and constricted feeling in the rectum attends. There may occur a feeling of insects crawling in the anus. In some cases, wart-like growths appear around the anus.

Key indicating features

1. Pain around navel, cutting type, better after passing stool

2. Diarrhea with watery, profuse, greyish white, frothy stool having a very strong offensive smell.

5. Lungs (Cough, Asthma, Chest Pain)

Lastly, Benzoic Acid is indicated for managing some complaints related to lungs. It proves helpful for managing cough when there occurs expectoration of greenish mucus with cough. It is indicated for asthma management. The main indicator here is coughing at night. It worsens from lying on the right side. Stitching pain in the chest on deep breathing can occur mostly in the evening. Cough at the slightest exposure to cold also indicates its use.

Key indicating features

1. Cough with expectoration of greenish mucus

2. Cough worse at night and on lying on the right side

3. Stitching pain in the chest on deep breathing in the evening

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from cold, movement, weather change and uncovered chest in winter

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from heat and copious urination

Dosage

This medicine can be used in both low and high potency. The potency and repetition of this medicine varies in every individual. As a general rule, low potency can be taken frequently but high potencies should not be repeated often.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Copaiva

It can be compared with medicine Nitric Acid in cases of offensive urine like horse and with other medicines including Sabina, Calcarea Carb, Ferrum Met, Zincum Met and Tropeolum.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines For Piles

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 221 Comments

Piles or hemorrhoids refers to dilatation, swelling, and inflammation of the veins around the anus or lower rectum. This results in blood stagnation inside these veins hence causing symptoms like anal pain, tenderness, itching, and bleeding.
Homeopathy offers highly successful treatment for piles. There are two aspects of how homeopathy helps in cases of piles. The first one is it provides prompt relief in symptoms like anal pain, burning, bleeding, swelling, and itching. The second aspect is it corrects the internal disturbances of the venous system to reduce engorgement of the rectal veins and the pooling of blood and ensures unobstructed blood flow which helps in complete recovery.

As is well known that the major predisposing and maintaining factor for piles is chronic constipation, so homeopathy also focuses on treating. Homeopathic remedies help to regulate bowel movements, soften the stool, and aids its easy passage.

Homeopathic medicines are sourced from natural substances thus ensuring their safety that treat piles from its roots along with easing the symptoms. On the other hand, conventional treatment of piles involves over-the-counter (OTC) medications for piles including ointments, creams and painkillers. For constipation, laxatives are recommended that offer temporary relief and can have side effects from prolonged use.

In many cases of piles, surgery is the only option left for most patients. However, timely homeopathic treatment can help avoid invasive procedures like surgery in piles in most of the cases. The sooner the patient approaches a homeopathic physician for treatment, the higher the chances of avoiding surgery.

The treatment period in homeopathy for piles can range from a few weeks to a few months. The length of homeopathic treatment for piles depends upon the duration of the symptoms, their intensity, and how quickly a person responds to medicines.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines for Piles

The eight most important medicines for treating piles are Aesculus Hippocastanum, Nux Vomica, Aloe Socotrina, Hamamelis, Collinsonia Canadensis, Muriatic Acid, Ratanhia and Nitric Acid.

1. Aesculus Hippocastanum – For Painful, External, Non-bleeding Piles

It is the best and most frequently used medicine for painful piles. It is taken when pain is felt during or after passing stool. The pain continues for long hours after the passing of stool. Pain is very sharp that may extend from the anus to the lower back. A person may have a distinct feeling of small sticks filling up the rectum. It is a specific medicine for external piles and blind piles (non-bleeding piles). This medicine does wonders on engorged haemorrhoidal veins, brings great relief in pain, and also helps in shrinking piles naturally.

When to use Aesculus Hippocastanum?

The characteristic feature to use this medicine is external piles with marked pain during and after passing stool.

How to use Aesculus Hippocastanum?

The most commonly recommended dosage of this medicine is Aesculus Hippocastanum 30C two to three times a day as per the intensity of the symptoms.

2. Nux Vomica – For Piles With Constipation And Ineffective Urge To Pass Stool

Nux Vomica is the best medicine to treat piles with constipation and ineffective urge to pass the stool. Those who need this medicine have to pass stool several times in a day to completely clear the bowels. They pass stool bit by bit throughout the day and yet have the urge to pass the stool. They also have marked pain and itching at the anus. Nux Vomica is recommended for piles that are non-bleeding. For piles or constipation triggered by alcohol intake, Nux Vomica is the right medicine. It is also the best choice of medicine for people with piles who lead a sedentary lifestyle.

When to use Nux Vomica?

Its use is highly suggested to manage piles with constipation where the ineffective urge to pass the stool is most prominent.

How to use Nux Vomica?

Though it can be used in both low to high potencies, in the beginning, it is advised to take it in 30C potency twice or thrice a day.

3. Aloe Socotrina – For Protruding Piles

Aloe Socotrina is ranked the number one medicine when it comes to treating protruding piles (internal piles take an outward bulge from the anus and can be seen as soft lumps of tissue). The protruding piles are very sore and tender and look like a bunch of grapes bluish in color. Persons who require it may find cold applications on affected areas soothing and help during pain, soreness, and tenderness. They may also have severe itching.

When to use Aloe Socotrina?

This medicine is well indicated for protruding piles with marked pain and tenderness.

How to use Aloe Socotrina?

It is advised to take this medicine in 30C power three to four times a day depending on the severity.

4. Hamamelis – For Bleeding, Internal Piles

This natural medicine sourced from plant ‘witch – hazel’ is the best prescription for piles that bleeds. It controls bleeding piles outstandingly. Hamamelis is useful in cases where piles is internal, painless, and bleed. ‘Painless, bleeding piles’ these three words are an indication to describe the use of this medicine in its entirety, and it requires no further description.

When to use Hamamelis?

Opt its use for managing bleeding from piles without any pain.

How to use Hamamelis?

One may take Hamamelis in 30C potency three to four times a day as per the intensity of the problem.

5. Collinsonia Canadensis – For Piles With Constipation (Dry, Hard Stool)

It is an effective medicine to treat piles with constipation when stool is dry and hard. It can be used when hemorrhoids are external or protruding and there is also marked pain. Additionally, a particular sensation of sand or sticks in the rectum may be felt. This medicine is also used to treat piles which is painful, along with bleeding.

When to use Collinsonia Canadensis?

Consider the use of this medicine for managing piles with constipation with the passage of dry, hard stool.

How to use Collinsonia Canadensis?

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

6. Muriatic Acid – For Piles Extremely Painful To Touch

This is a leading homeopathic medicine to manage piles that is highly sensitive, and painful even on the slightest touch. It is mainly indicated for protruding piles. The piles look bluish or dark purple like a bunch of grapes. A characteristic feature is relief of soreness from warm applications.

When to use Muriatic Acid?

This medicine can be selected in cases of piles that are intensely painful to the slightest touch.

How to use Muriatic Acid?

The most frequently used potency of this medicine is 30C. Muriatic Acid 30C should be taken once a day and in severe cases two times a day, not more than that.

7. Ratanhia – For Piles With Intense Burning Sensation

This medicine is well indicated to manage piles attended with severe burning sensation. Along with this, there is marked straining to pass stool. Piles may protrude out of the anus on straining for stool. Apart from these a peculiar sensation of little pieces of broken glass in the rectum can be present. Pouring cold water over the anus may provide relief for a while.

When to use Ratanhia?

Ratanhia is an ideal prescription for piles that have intense burning,

How to use Ratanhia?

In the beginning, one may start with its 30C potency twice or thrice a day. After close observation of symptoms, higher potencies can be considered if the need arises, under a homeopathic physician’s supervision.

8. Nitric Acid – For Protruding Piles With Bleeding And Sharp Pain

Nitric Acid is a beneficial medicine for cases where piles protrude while passing stool accompanied by bleeding. With this marked pain is there that sharp, stitching, pricking, cutting type, or burning in nature. There is constipation with dry, hard stool that passes with much straining. Pain also occurs at the anus. Constant weight and pressure are felt in the rectum.

When to use Nitric Acid?

This medicine can be used for protruding piles with bleeding and sharp, stitching pain.

How to use Nitric Acid?

Nitric Acid 30C can be taken once or twice a day.

Note You may continue these medicines for about 2 to 3 weeks. If symptoms persist, or if you want to continue any of these medicines beyond 3 weeks, it is strictly advised to seek consultation from a homeopath. Do not use high potencies without consulting a homeopathic doctor.

Types of Piles: Signs And Symptoms

Piles is of different types according to their location and whether they bleed or not. External piles, internal piles, protruding/prolapsed piles, and blind piles are the most common types. The symptoms of piles depend on the type of piles.

1. External piles is visible on the surface of the skin around the anus and can be seen or felt from the outside. The main symptoms of external piles include painful swelling and hard lumps around the anus. These hemorrhoids irritate, sometimes itching or bleeding.

2. Internal piles lie deep inside the rectum and cannot be felt or seen outside. It is mostly painless since there are no pain receptors in the region where it tends to appear. The only symptom of internal piles is bleeding while straining at the time of passing stool. However, an internal hemorrhoid may protrude through the anus, causing irritation and pain.

3. Protruding or prolapsed piles is a condition when hemorrhoids get pushed out towards the anus when force is applied to pass stools. They look like pink, moist pads of skin. Prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoids tend to hurt since the anus area is dense with pain-sensitive nerves. The typical symptoms of hemorrhoids are mucus discharge, itching and pain.

4. Blind piles refers to hemorrhoids that do not bleed. They feel like protruding masses, usually detectable after passing stools, at the opening of the anus.

5. Mixed/ interno – external piles refers to a condition in which internal as well as external piles simultaneously.

6. Thrombosed piles refers to external hemorrhoids in which a blood clot is formed that blocks blood flow resulting in swelling of anal tissue with severe pain.

Causes, Risk Factors That Lead To Piles

Primarily, the swollen veins that are seen in piles develop due to increased pressure in the rectum. This may cause disintegration of the tissues supporting the anal walls, leading to hemorrhoids. Various factors contribute to causing this kind of pressure which are enumerated here:

1. Irregular Bowel Movements (Constipation is the leading cause of piles): Factors like constipation, straining to pass stool, overuse of enema or laxatives, spending too much time on the toilet seat adds to the strain on the rectum and anus, leading to the development of piles. On the other hand, chronic diarrhea may also sometimes lead to piles.

2. Diet: Lack of a fiber-rich diet, low water intake, excessive intake of alcohol, and consumption of spicy food and junk food are also contributing factors.

3. Pregnancy: There is increased pressure on the abdomen and pelvic area during pregnancy, which is a leading cause of piles during pregnancy. In some cases, hemorrhoids develop as a result of childbirth due to excessive pressure on the rectum and anus.

4. Age and Heredity: Other factors like age and heredity too may cause piles due to the weakening of the tissues supporting the rectum and anus.

5. Inactive sedentary lifestyle: Prolonged sitting with lack of physical activity or exercise, and obesity also predispose a person towards piles.

6. Portal Hypertension: Portal hypertension refers to a condition where there is an increase in the blood pressure within the veins of the portal venous system. The veins coming from the spleen, stomach, pancreas, and intestines merge into the portal vein which travels through the liver. In case of any complication due to which blood cannot flow properly through the liver, high pressure develops in the portal system. This pressure can cause the development of large, swollen veins in the stomach, esophagus, and rectum. As a result, hemorrhoids may develop in the anal area.

Aurum Met – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 10 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Aurum Met is prepared from metal ‘gold’. Gold is inactive in its crude form but when it undergoes potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines that arouses medicinal properties of a crude substance), it is converted into a highly beneficial homeopathic medicine Aurum Met. It is a top-grade medicine in homeopathy for managing depression, bone complaints and various heart issues.

The ‘Aurum Met’ Constitution

It is recommended for persons who are depressed, restless, anxious type with marked anxiety about future and having weak memory. This medicine is well suited to girls at puberty and women who get nervous, as well as to elderly people with heart disease.

Drug Action

Aurum Met acts on various body parts. Among these, the most prominent action is seen on mind, bones and heart. Rest of the organs where it acts well includes head, eyes, ears, nose and male and female genitals.

Clinical Indications

Depression, bone affections, exostosis, bone pain, bone inflammation, bone decay, high blood pressure, heart complaints, ear disorders, otorrhoea (ear discharge), ozaena, headache, testes affections, hydrocele, orchitis, infertility, suppressed menses, vaginismus.

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Mind (Depression)

Aurum Met has its foremost action on the mind. The indication of utmost importance for using it is depression. For persons suffering from depression, this medicine can work wonders. The persons needing it have intense depression. They remain sad and have a feeling of hopelessness all the time. They feel themselves to be worthless, of no value and feels forsaken. They frequently criticize themselves. For them, the future seems to be dark. They have lost all love for life and desire death. They have suicidal thoughts, slightest contradiction is unbearable to them. They show sudden fits of anger at the slightest contradiction. Certain sort of fears are well marked in them like fear of death and even a small unwarranted sound or noise makes them fearful. This medicine is of great value to manage complaints related to the mind resulting from grief, fright, contradiction, disappointment in love matters, etc. Next indication is mood swings when crying alternates with laughing. Persons needing it may be generally oversensitive to smell, pain, taste, hearing and touch.

Key indicating features

1. Intense depression with suicidal thoughts

2. Feeling of self – worthlessness with self-criticism

3. Sudden anger from least contradiction

2. Bones (Bone Decay, Pain, Inflammation And Exostosis)

Aurum Met has a remarkable action on bones. Here it serves great help to manage various bone-related issues. Firstly, the main complaint where it proves highly effective is bone decay (necrosis, caries of bone). It offers help especially to manage cases where there is decay of bones of nose, palate, face or of lower limbs. The bones involved are sore, complaint is worse at night and better in open air. Another major complaint where it has marked utility is bone pain. It works magnificently for bone pains that are particularly worse at night. The bones that are usually painful include skull bones, nasal bones, facial bone, bones of wrist, hand and arms. The skull bone pain worsens after lying down. Nasal bones are painful to touch. In bones of arms, pain is cramp like or tearing type. Aurum Met is also well indicated for inflammation of bone with pain at night. It mainly works well in case of inflammation of bones of face. Besides, its use is considered in cases of exostosis also known as bone spurs which means growth of extra new bone on the surface of existing bone. It can be used for dissolving extra bony growths on skull, pelvis, bones of arms or legs.

Key indicating features

1. Caries or decay of bones of nose, palate, face or of lower limbs

2. Bone pain at night time

3. Extra bony growth (exostosis) on skull, pelvis, bones of arms or legs.

3. Ears (Noises In Ear, Ear Discharge, Meniere’s Disease, Decay Of Mastoid Process)

This medicine works well on ears and settles many complaints. To begin with, it is useful for noises in ears (tinnitus) of buzzing, humming or roaring type. There may be difficulty in hearing too. It is next indicated for managing Meniere’s Disease (an inner ear disorder characterized by noises in ears, hearing loss and vertigo). Another complaint where it is used is ear discharge (otorrhoea) that is very offensive (foul smelling). Pus discharge from ear is marked. Apart from these, Aurum Met is an important medicine to help cases of decay of mastoid process (a prominence of temporal bone of skull behind the ear). In such cases, Aurum Met helps to reduce ear discharge. Additionally, it is helpful to relieve itching, burning and pricking sensation in ears.

Key indicating features

1. Noises in ears buzzing, humming, roaring in nature

2. Offensive ear discharge

3. Decay of mastoid bone (a prominence of temporal bone of skull behind ear) with ear discharge, itching, burning, pricking in ear

4. Nose (Discharge, Inflammation, Decay Of Nasal Bones)

With its action on nose, it is capable of treating numerous problems. Its use is mainly recommended to manage offensive nasal discharges of pus and blood. Secondly, its effect to manage inflammation of nose is well known. It gives good results in ozaena cases. Ozaena also known as atrophic rhinitis indicates a long-term inflammation of nose resulting in atrophy (reduction in size or shrinkage) of nasal mucus lining and the underneath bone. Furthermore, it can treat cases of decay of nose bones with pus-like, blood-stained discharge having foul odour. There is marked pain in nasal bones of boring type (which goes from outside to inside), especially at night. Aurum Met is also recommended for persons with sensitivity to strong odour.

Key indicating features

1. Offensive nasal discharges, of pus matter and blood

2. Ozaena/ atrophic rhinitis (chronic inflammation of nose leading to atrophy means shrinkage of nasal mucus lining and the underneath bone)

3. Decay of nose bones with foul pus matter, blood-stained discharge and boring pain in nasal bones

5. Head (Headache, Bone Pain, Boils)

Aurum Met is effective in managing headache. It gives good results in headache that worsens at night. The pain is felt on the forehead, sides and top of head. It is relieved in open air. Fullness, heat and congestion is felt in the head. Its action in treating one-sided pain on forehead that is burning/stitching/ beating type is the other noteworthy feature. It may be attended with nausea or vomiting. This medicine can also deal with pain in the bones of the head that goes up to the face and gets worse on lying down. It is of great value for treating exostosis (extra bony growths) on the bones of skull accompanied by boring type of pain. Another notable indication to use Aurum Met is boils (pus-filled lumps) on the scalp.

Key indicating feature

1. Headache at night time

2. Bone pain in face radiating to face, worse lying down

3. Extra bony growth on scalp bones

6. Male Problems (Hydrocele, Orchitis, Balanitis, Epididymitis)

In males, this medicine proves to be effective for treating hydrocele, especially in children which causes pain in the testes along with swelling and hardness. Orchitis (inflammation of testes) cases respond well to this remedy. Aurum Met is also indicated when there is atrophy (shrinkage or reduced size) of testes. Other complaints which it treats are balanitis (inflammation of glans penis), itching of scrotum and ulcers on scrotum.

Key indicating features

1. Hydrocele mainly in children

2. Inflammation of testes (orchitis) and of glans penis (balanitis)

3. Atrophy of testes

7. Female Problems (Suppressed Menses, Vaginal Discharge, Prolapse Of Uterus Vaginismus, Infertility)

Females may find this medicine very useful for managing certain problems. These include suppressed menses (amenorrhea), vaginal discharge, prolapse of uterus, vaginismus and infertility. It is helpful when menses are late. The flow is scanty. Aurum Met proves beneficial for managing vaginal discharge that is thick, white or yellow, and increases on walking. Aurum Met treats cases of prolapse of uterus attended with back pain and heaviness in the abdomen which gets worse during menses. Shooting/ drawing or bruised pain is felt in the uterus. This medicine also treats vaginismus in which vagina is very sensitive and involuntary contraction of vaginal muscles happens when some thing tries to enter it. Final yet an important use of Aurum Met is to treat infertility cases attended with depression.

Key indicating features

1. Vaginal discharge which is thick, white or yellow, increase on walking

2. Uterine prolapse with backache and heaviness in abdomen

3. Vaginismus (involuntary contraction of vaginal muscles when something is trying to enter it)

4. Infertility accompanied by depression

8. Heart (High Blood Pressure, Heart Pain, Endocarditis, Fatty Degeneration Of Heart, Hypertrophy Of Heart)

This medicine shows wonderful action on heart. It is one of the leading medicines in homeopathy for treating high blood pressure (hypertension). It is also recommended for palpitations of heart with a feeling of rush of blood to the chest. Aurum Met is an important medicine for valve lesions of arteriosclerotic nature. Arteriosclerosis is thickening and stiffening of arteries resulting in restricted blood flow to tissues and organs. It is well indicated for heart pain radiating to left arm and fingers. Besides, it is well-indicated for cases of endocarditis (inflammation of inner lining of heart), fatty degeneration of heart and hypertrophy of heart.

Key indicating features

1. High blood pressure

2. Fatty degeneration of heart and hypertrophy of heart

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints are worse from mental exertion, at night, winters, in cold weather, cloudy weather, alcohol use

Relieving factors: Complaints are better in cool, open air, walking and cold bathing

Dosage

It can be used in both low and high potencies. It can be repeated frequently in low potency but high potencies are usually advised not to be taken frequently.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Belladonna, China, Cocculus Indicus, Coffea Cruda, Cuprum Met, Merc Sol, Pulsatilla and Spigelia

It antidotes: Merc Sol and Spigelia

Followed well by: Nitric Acid, Aconite, Belladonna, Calcarea Carb, China, Lycopodium, Merc Sol, Pulsatilla, Sepia and Syphilinum

Top 6 Homeopathic Remedies for Genital Herpes

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 213 Comments

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). It leads to eruptions in the genital parts of males and females along with itching, burning sensation, and pain.

There is a great scope for treating genital herpes in homeopathy. The homeopathic remedies are very safe and effective to treat genital herpes. With natural homeopathic medicines, initially healing of genital eruptions occurs along with halting of the progression of infection further. Simultaneously, there is marked improvement in symptoms like itching, pain, burning, and tenderness in eruptions. Afterward, the frequency and intensity of eruptions in recurrent genital herpes wither away slowly till the disease diminishes completely. Mainstream medicines mainly use anti-viral medicines to treat genital herpes. They offer temporary relief, may suppress the eruptions, and also lead to side effects in the long run. Homeopathy, on the contrary, offers natural treatment with no side effects and long-term relief followed by a cure, if a proper course of homeopathic medications is followed under the guidance of an expert homeopath.

Homeopathy boosts the body’s self-healing mechanism

Homeopathic medicines aim to boost the body’s self-healing mechanism to fight against the virus to overcome infection and help in natural cure. The body’s defense mechanism is strengthened to such an extent that it even helps to prevent recurrent outbreaks after overcoming the present condition.

Individual symptom-based prescription

Homeopathy is a symptom-based science in which the medicine for any case is finalized by taking into consideration the symptoms of the individual in every case. There are various homeopathic medicines to treat genital herpes and a detailed assessment of the symptoms is done to select a medicine from among these in all the cases. Following this the potency, dose, repetition of medicine is also decided individually for every case. The selected medicine along with the correct potency and dose leads to great cures in cases of genital herpes.

Homeopathy aims to cure rather than suppress

Homeopathy does not suppress any skin ailment to give temporary relief, rather it always works to cure any skin complaint in the long run. Homeopathy is against any kind of suppression as it makes the complaint more complex to treat. According to homeopathic principles, suppressing skin issues carries a chance of the skin disease being diverted to some important vital organs like lungs, heart, kidneys, etc. So, it never takes the path of suppression.

Safe and Natural Remedies

Homeopathic medicines are prepared from naturally occurring substances hence assuring their safety and have zero side effects. Homeopathic medicines treat genital herpes gently, and effectively and provide great relief without toxic after-effects.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines For Genital Herpes

The most frequently used homeopathic medicines to treat genital herpes are Natrum Mur, Petroleum, Nitric Acid, Sepia, Hepar Sulph and Merc Sol.

1. Natrum Mur – Top Natural Medicine For Genital Herpes

Natrum Mur leads the list of homeopathic medicines in treating genital herpes in both males and females.

– In males, Natrum Mur can be used when blisters form on any part of the genitals – on scrotum, penis, glans penis (rounded head of penis), and on thighs and around anus. There is marked itching and stinging pain on the scrotum and glans penis.

– In females, it can be used when bumps form on vagina, vulva, or around the anus. Burning and soreness in vagina can be felt after urination. It may worsen before menses. Itching in vagina may also be present. In some cases, white discharge from vagina, with itching and burning can arise.

When to use Natrum Mur?

It is effective in healing herpes sores and managing the associated itching.

How to use Natrum Mur?

It can be used in different potencies from low to high, the most preferred is 6X potency.

When diagnosis of genital herpes is confirmed, two to four doses of Natrum Mur 6X can be taken as per the severity of the complaint.

2. Petroleum – For Genital Herpes With Marked Itching And Redness

Petroleum is the next most important remedy when the bumps are accompanied by marked itching and redness.

– In males needing this medicine, though the eruptions may develop on any part of the genitals, they are present dominantly on the scrotum and the prepuce. Itching in these bumps is felt intensely and turns reddish that may ooze fluid or remain dry. In some cases, the affected skin may be rough with cracks, and bleeding.

– In females, use of this medicine is considered especially when the breakouts along with itching occur mostly during menses. The itchy bumps may appear scattered on any part of the genitals. A burning sensation can be felt in vagina.

When to use Petroleum?

This medicine can be used in cases where itching and redness are well marked in sores. In males, the characteristic feature to use it is blisters on the scrotum and the prepuce with redness and itching.

In females, its use is highly recommended when itchy bumps appear on the genitals in the majority of the cases during menses.

How to use Petroleum?
This medicine can be used in 30C potency twice or thrice a day in the beginning, with a gradual reduction in dose when improvement seems to start. It can be taken in high potencies as well if recommended by a homeopathic physician.

3. Nitric Acid – To Treat Ulcers

Nitric Acid is a very important medicine to treat ulcers in genital herpes.

– In males, this medicine is indicated when ulcers form on the scrotum or the foreskin. These exude foul-smelling moist fluid or in some cases blood. They are very sore and painful. Burning sensation and stinging pain is also felt.

– In females, Nitric Acid is useful when ulcers are formed in the vagina that are itchy with burning sensation.

When to use Nitric Acid?

This medicine can be taken when there is ulcer formation in herpetic lesions. In males, ulcers with pain, burning/ stinging sensation, soreness indicate its use. In females, itchy, burning ulcers in vagina are the guiding symptoms.

How to use Nitric Acid?

The use of this medicine is suggested in 30C potency once a day.

4 . Sepia – For Genital Herpes In Females With Marked Tenderness

Sepia is the top-most medicine to treat genital herpes in females. It is indicated when blisters form on different areas of female genitals. Marked tenderness is felt in the genitals. Itching is also felt on the external genitals. Yellow, green discharge from vagina can appear, along with itching.

When to use Sepia?

Sepia is recommended for genital herpes in females when there are blisters on genitals along with marked tenderness and vaginal discharge.

How to use Sepia?

The potency varies from low to high varying in every individual case. Initially, Sepia 30C can be taken once or twice a day. Afterward, high potencies can be considered under the supervision of a homeopathic physician.

5. Hepar Sulph: For Highly Sensitive Eruptions On Male Genitals

It is a highly effective medicine for treating sensitive eruptions on male genitals. It works well when little blisters form in groups. These look white with a red base. Extreme sensitivity to touch predominates, itching may be felt.

When to use Hepar Sulph?

This medicine can be considered to manage extremely sensitive sores on male genitals.

How to use Hepar Sulph?

It can be used from low to high potencies. It is safe to start with 30C potency two to three times a day. Higher potencies should be taken under a homeopathic expert’s guidance.

6. Merc Sol – For Blisters On Male Genitals With Oozing of Fluid

It is very beneficial medicine to manage cases of genital herpes in males where blisters on genitals ooze fluid. The blisters are present on the front and the sides of glans penis. These are multiple in number. Burning sensation on penis is also felt.

When to use Merc Sol?

This medicine is well indicated for managing blisters on male genitals that ooze fluid.

How to use Merc Sol?

The use of this medicine is advised in 30 C power once or twice a day.

Note You may continue any of these medicines for about one month, only in the above-recommended doses. To continue further and for using high potencies, seek homeopathic doctor’s advice.

What Causes Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes is caused by Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). This virus can be found in semen, vaginal secretions, or saliva.

Two types of Herpes Simplex Virus or HSV are linked with Genital Herpes i.e. HSV2 and HSV1

– HSV2 is specific for causing Genital Herpes and is transmitted through sexual contact. It is highly contagious (spread quickly through skin or sexual contact with an infected person) even if there is no open sore on the genital area.

– HSV1 is the main cause of fever blisters (fluid-filled bumps/eruptions) around the mouth which causes genital herpes through the orogenital route (during oral sex)

The HSV virus tends to enter the body through any cut in the skin or mucus membrane lining the openings in the body, like the mouth, nose, and genitals. After entering the body, the virus enters cells where it multiplies and symptoms appear.

What Are Signs And Symptoms Of Genital Herpes?

1. Blisters (fluid-filled bumps) on genital parts with itching, burning, and pain. The eruptions may appear between 2 days to 2 weeks after contracting the virus. The appearance of blisters is referred to as having an outbreak. Tingling, burning, or itching is felt around the genitals before eruptions appear. In males, the eruptions appear on the penis, inner thigh, scrotum, buttocks, and area around the anus. In females, the eruptions appear on the vulva, vagina, pubis, clitoris, buttocks, and area around the anus.

2. The blisters can turn into ulcers and ooze water or blood, followed by crusting and healing.

3. The general symptoms of fever and body aches may appear in a patient, along with discharge from the vagina or penis.

4. Female patients can also experience pain while urinating.

Can Genital Herpes Sores/ Eruptions Recur In A Person?

Yes, outbreaks can recur at any time in genital herpes after healing for the first time, though there is no surety of its recurrence. After the first outbreak, the virus remains dormant (inactive) in the body. It can become active anytime on getting a trigger (like stress, or any other illness or when the immunity of the sufferer is low due to any reason) leading to an outbreak. The sores may keep appearing off and on for many years. In some people, these outbreaks may occur several times a year while in others, the sores may repeat less frequently.

How Does Genital Herpes Spread?

A person can get herpes if he or she comes in contact with a sore of herpes, genital fluids of an infected person, saliva or skin of the oral area (mouth) of someone having an oral infection. An infected person even in the absence of any active eruptions can still pass the infection to another person via sexual activity. A person cannot contract the infection from toilet seats, swimming pools, towels, bedding or any other object used by an infected person as the virus dies quickly outside the body.

Who Is At Risk Of Getting Genital Herpes?

Though genital herpes can affect anyone, certain people are at greater risk, like

– Those having multiple sexual partners are at highest risk

– Those having sex without using protective barriers like condoms

– Those having low immunity may be unable to resist the infection and contract it more easily if they come in contact with the virus

– The risk is also high in women as compared to men as the transmission of the virus occurs much more easily from men to women

How to diagnose a case of genital herpes?

To diagnose a case of genital herpes, a doctor checks the symptoms and history of sexual activity of the patient along with a physical examination. This helps in diagnosing genital herpes clinically in most cases. Tests are not always required. But to confirm that it is genital herpes, the doctor may advise a simple blood test to look for antibodies against this virus. The test is a serum herpes simplex virus antibodies test to check for antibodies to HSV (herpes simplex virus) both HSV -1 and HSV -2.