Pompholyx or dyshidrotic eczema refers to a skin condition where tiny blisters/vesicles form on the sides of fingers and palms of hands. Sometimes this condition may also affect the soles of feet. Homeopathic medicines for pompholyx are deep acting remedies of natural origin that helps in healing the eruptions associated with the condition and also manage other symptoms.      

Some factors that predispose or trigger pompholyx are mental or physical stress, skin sensitivity, the tendency of excessive sweating, reaction to certain metals (like nickel, cobalt), detergents, soaps or other chemical, atopic dermatitis and fungal infections of skin. A person having a family history of pompholyx is also at risk to develop a similar condition. Females are more affected by this condition as compared to the males, particularly between the ages of 20 to 40 years. 

Homeopathic Medicines for Pompholyx

Natural medicines treat both acute and chronic cases of pompholyx in an effective and natural way. These remedies further help in gradually eradicating the tendency to have recurrent pompholyx. The top homeopathic medicines for treating pompholyx are Graphites, Natrum Mur, Mezereum, Petroleum and Sulphur.

1. Graphites – For Vesicles Discharging Sticky Fluid

Graphites is most helpful for pompholyx with vesicles discharging sticky fluid. The vesicles appear between the fingers and toes. They discharge sticky, gluey, watery and transparent fluid. The vesicles may itch and burn intolerably. Graphites is also indicated for cracks, fissures, roughness on the affected skin.

2. Natrum Mur – For Vesicles having Watery Fluid

Natrum Mur works well in cases of pompholyx with vesicles containing watery fluid. The vesicles rupture and leave a thin scurf on the skin. Burning on skin may precede vesicle formation. A general aggravation from heat and warmth is usually seen in most cases needing Natrum Mur.

3. Mezereum – For blisters on the Sides of Fingers

Mezereum is prepared from the fresh bark of plant Daphne Mezereum commonly known as Spurge Olive. The natural order of this plant is Thymelaceae. Mezereum is indicated for pompholyx when blisters form on the sides of fingers. The blisters are surrounded by a red areola. The blisters are attended with intense burning sensation. Itching also appears in blisters. The blisters may discharge sticky fluid, get dry leaving scabs. Skin of hands may be rough.

4. Petroleum – For Dry, Cracked Rough Skin on Palms and Soles

Petroleum is very effective for pompholyx with dry, cracked rough skin on palms and soles. The cracks may be deep. It is attended with excessive burning and itching. Blood may appear from the cracks. It is also indicated for vesicular eruption with thick scabs that may be greenish.

5. Sulphur – To Manage Itching and Burning in Vesicles

Sulphur helps in managing itching and burning in vesicles of pompholyx. Vesicles with watery content or pustules may be present. Most cases needing Sulphur show worsening of itching in the evening and at night. Burning appears after scratching the skin. Sometimes bleeding appears from scratching.

6. Carbolic Acid – For highly Itchy Blisters

Carbolic Acid is well indicated for pompholyx with highly itchy blisters. In some cases itchy pustules are also present. The itching gets slightly better by rubbing or scratching. It may be followed by burning pain. An offensive odor on the skin may be present.

7. Rhus Tox – For Blisters discharging Yellow Fluid

Rhus Tox is significant medicine for pompholyx with blisters discharging yellow fluid. The blisters appear on palms of hands. The blisters may be tiny or large. It is attended with intense itching. The affected skin is also red and inflamed.

8. Arsenic Album – For Blisters on Soles of Feet and Toes

Arsenic Album is prominently used for pompholyx with blisters on soles of feet and toes. The blisters have dark edges. The blisters may discharge light yellow colored liquid. The discharge mostly occurs during the night and may be offensive in nature. Intense burning in blisters may be present. For using Arsenic Album, the blisters may also be present on the fingers also along with the soles and toes.

9. Ranunculus Bulbosus – For Blisters having Bluish Appearance

Ranunculus Bulbosus is prepared from a plant commonly known by the name of Buttercup. The natural order of this plant is Ranunculaceae. Ranunculus Bulbosus is indicated for pompholyx with blisters having bluish appearance. Most times the vesicles appear on palms of hand and fingers. The vesicles are tiny and come up in crops. The eruptions tend to itch and burn. Stinging sensation may also be present in them. After scratching, redness and swelling arise. Thickening of the skin may also occur.

10. Hepar Sulph – For Infection when Eruptions Discharge Pus

Hepar Sulph is an important medicine for pompholyx with infection when there is a pus discharge from the eruptions. The pus may be offensive and tinged with blood. Sometimes the pus is dark coloured. Affected skin may be sensitive to touch.

11. Cantharis – For Vesicles with excessive Burning

Cantharis is a helpful medicine for pompholyx with vesicles attended with much burning. The vesicles are painful, tend to appear between fingers and toes. These may be large and exude watery content.

12. Anagallis – For Cluster of Small Blisters on Palm

Anagallis is prepared from a plant Anagallis Arvensis commonly known by many names including red chickweed, scarlet pimpernel and weather-glass. The natural order of this plant is Primulaceae. Anagallis works well for pompholyx with a cluster of small blisters appearing on the palm of hands and fingers. The blisters are attended with itching. In some cases, smarting sensation also appears in the blisters. There may be a discharge of yellow or brown fluid from blisters. The blisters then dry off. Following healing of these blisters, a new crop of blisters appears. The skin of hands and fingers is usually very dry in cases needing Anagallis.

13. Silicea – For Excessive Sweat with Blisters

Silicea is considered for cases of pompholyx where excessive sweat appears along with blisters. The blisters appear on palms, soles along with intense sweating. The sweat may be offensive. There may be prominent pus discharge from the blisters. Like Hepar Sulph, Silicea is also used to treat infected cases of pompholyx with pus discharges.

Signs and Symptoms of Pompholyx

The signs of pompholyx include small fluid filled blisters on the palmar surface of hand and sides of fingers (and sometimes on soles of feet.) In most cases, intense itching and burning on the skin precedes the blister development. The blisters tend to appear in clusters/crops. The blisters in pompholyx are usually small. These may club together in some cases to form large ones. The blisters can be very itchy as well as painful and may ooze fluid. They heal and are followed by dry, cracked, peeling, red, tender skin. Sometimes the affected skin can be infected following intense scratching. In infected cases the blisters ooze pus, get very painful and become covered with crust.

Dry mouth (medically known as xerostomia) is a condition that arises when the salivary glands in the mouth don’t make an adequate amount of saliva to keep the mouth moist. There are multiple reasons that can lead to dry mouth; many medicines like those used to treat high BP, depression, anxiety and chemotherapy drugs can cause dryness in the mouth. Radiation therapy to head and neck can damage salivary glands and result in decrease salivation. Dry mouth can arise in elderly people, in diabetics and also in people who drink too much alcohol, chew tobacco, smoke, or use marijuana. Dehydration and breathing with an open mouth can also result in dry mouth. Homeopathic remedies for dry mouth bring excellent results by addressing the root cause behind the dryness.

Homeopathic Remedies for Dry Mouth

Natural medicines are highly effective to treat cases of dry mouth. The top grade medicines for treating dry mouth are Bryonia, Nux Moschata, Natrum Mur, Kali Bichrome, and Belladonna. The characteristic features in every case of dry mouth decides the most suitable medicine needed among them for wonderful results.

1. Bryonia – Top Grade Medicine for Dry Mouth

Bryonia is prepared from the root of the plant Bryonia Alba commonly known as White Bryony or Wild Hops of the natural order Cucurbitaceae. Bryonia is a top listed medicine for treating cases of dry mouth. Along with dryness of mouth, lips are also markedly dry and parched. Throat and tongue are also dry. Tongue feels rough and cracked and may be coated white or yellow. It is attended with increased thirst for water. Drinking momentarily offers relief in dryness. Bad, offensive odour from mouth is also present. The saliva is frothy. Everything tastes bitter.

2. Nux Moschata – When Tongue Sticks to Roof of Mouth

Nux Moschata is prepared from powdered seeds of the plant Nutmeg of the natural order Myristicaceae. Nux Moschata is suitable for treating intensely dry mouth with sticking of tongue to roof of mouth/palate. The throat is also dry. The dryness of mouth and throat is very troublesome while sleeping. Saliva is decreased and feels like cotton in the mouth. Bad smell from the mouth and a foul, bitter or sour taste persists.

3. Natrum Mur – For Dryness of Mouth, Lips, Tongue

Natrum Mur is very beneficial for cases of dryness of mouth, lips and tongue. All food tastes bitter. The tongue has a clean, shiny appearance. Burning sensation at tip of tongue may be felt. Apthae on tongue and cheeks may also be present. It is attended with great smarting and burning sensation.

4. Kali Bichrome – For Sticky or Stringy Saliva

Kali Bichrome is a well-indicated medicine for dry mouth with sticky/stringy saliva. Saliva may be bitter or salty to taste. The lips are also dry. The dryness gets better by drinking cold water. There may be a coppery taste in mouth. The tongue is also dry, red and cracked. And may have a yellow-white coating. There may be stinging and pricking pains in tongue.

5. Belladonna – For Dryness of Mouth and Throat

Belladonna is prepared from the plant named as Deadly Nightshade belonging to natural order Solanaceae. Belladonna is helpful for treating cases of dryness of mouth, inner cheeks, fauces and throat. The dryness of throat is excessive and can cause difficulty in swallowing. Burning, scraping and a constricted sensation is felt in the throat along with dryness. Dryness of tongue is also marked. Tongue is cracked and this may interfere with speaking. A foul odour from the mouth is also present.

6. Pulsatilla – For Dry Mouth with Bad Breath

Pulsatilla is prepared from a plant Pulsatilla Nigricans having common name Pasque flower or Wind Flower. The natural order of this plant is Ranunculaceae. Use of Pulsatilla is considered in cases of dry mouth attended with bad or putrid breath. This is mostly noted in the morning time. Along with mouth the tongue and pharynx are also dry. Tongue has a coating of a grey, white or yellow colour

7. Borax – For Ulcers in Mouth

Borax is a very useful medicine for dry mouth attended with apthae/ulcers in the mouth. The apthae are mostly present on inner surface of cheek and tongue. The apthae are painful, tender and may bleed too. Tongue is also cracked. Dry heat in the mouth is present and there is increased thirst. Borax is also a well indicated medicine for treating thrush or fungal infection of mouth.

8. Apis Mellifica – For Painful/Inflamed Tongue

Apis Mellifica is a significant medicine for dry mouth attended with painful/inflamed tongue. The tongue is dry, swollen and inflamed with an inability to swallow. The tongue is fiery red with burning, or shooting pains. Sometimes prickling sensation is felt on the tongue. Dryness may also be felt in throat with burning and stinging sensation. The saliva is viscid and tough. Scalded feeling in mouth attends.

9. Sulphur – For Dryness of Mouth especially in Morning

Sulphur is indicated for dryness of mouth mainly during the morning. A sticky sensation in the mouth is also felt with dryness. Palate is also very dry. Tongue is coated white, yellow or brown and is rough and dry too. Burning pain on tongue is also marked.  Mouth dryness after eating is also indicative to use Sulphur. It is also valuable to treat mouth inflammation and apthae in mouth, tongue and on lips along with dryness of mouth.

10. Cocculus Indicus – For marked Dryness at Night

Cocculus Indicus is prepared from seeds of a plant named Indian Cockle of the natural order Menispermaceae. Cocculus Indicus is valuable to treat dryness of mouth present prominently during the night. The throat also feels dry. A burning sensation in the mouth and throat accompanies dryness. Saliva is frothy. Taste of mouth may be bitter, sour, metallic, coppery where Cocculus is indicated. There is marked thirst for water with above features.

Signs and symptoms attending dry mouth

Dry mouth may be attended with bad breath, sticky/stringy saliva, painful inflamed tongue, cracks in the mouth / inner cheeks, increased thirst for water, trouble speaking, problem in swallowing, sticking of tongue to palate and dry throat. Cracks may also appear on lips and corners of mouth. Dry mouth also predisposes a person to fungal infections / thrush in the mouth and tongue ulcers, taste disorders, tooth decay, plaque formation on teeth, gum disease, sore throat and infection of salivary glands.

Abnormal uterine bleeding refers to any heavy or prolonged bleeding from the uterus, or bleeding in between periods. Other features of abnormal uterine bleeding include passing large clots in menstrual blood, bleeding after sexual intercourse and bleeding after menopause. Homeopathic medicines for abnormal uterine bleeding offer a very natural, safe and effective treatment.    

The causes of abnormal bleeding include uterine fibroids, uterine polyps, some birth control pills or the intrauterine device (IUD), bleeding disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, thickening of uterine lining, hormone changes during menopause, cancer of the cervix / uterus. Other causes include bleeding associated with early pregnancy, like a miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy.

Homeopathic Medicines for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Homeopathy is very beneficial to manage the complaint of heavy periods, prolonged menstrual bleeding, bleeding in between periods and bleeding arising after sexual intercourse. The top grade homeopathic medicines for  abnormal uterine bleeding are Sabina, Thlaspi, Phosphorus, Ferrum Met and Trillium Pendulum. Each of these medicines have their own characteristic features to use them

1. Sabina – For Profuse Bleeding

Sabina is a remedy prepared from the young, fresh tops of the branches of plant Sabina Officinalis commonly known as Juniperus Sabina or Savine. The natural order of this plant is Coniferae. Sabina is a top listed medicine for abnormal uterine bleeding. Females needing Sabina suffer from very profuse periods. The bleeding is gushing, bright red and contains dark clots. The blood may be offensive too. Slight motion worsens the bleeding. Along with copious bleeding, there is marked pain from the sacrum to the pubis. The pains are contractive in nature. The periods last for long durations. This remedy also works well in cases of inter menstrual bleeding and for excessive bleeding due to uterine fibroids.

2. Thlaspi – For Bleeding with Prolonged Periods

Thlaspi is prepared from a plant Thlaspi Bursa Pastoris commonly named as Shepherd’s Purse, of the natural order cruciferae. Thlaspi is very useful for treating abnormal uterine bleeding where periods last too long. They may last from one to two weeks altogether. Periods are profuse with expulsion of clots. Bleeding is attended with severe uterine colic and cramps. Exhaustion results from prolonged periods. There is also tendency for frequent periods. It is one of the best medicines for managing prolonged, profuse and frequent periods in cases of uterine fibroids.

3. Phosphorus – For Inter-menstrual Bleeding

Phosphorus is a highly valuable remedy to manage inter menstrual bleeding in cases of abnormal uterine bleeding. There may also be attending complaint of too profuse and lengthy periods. The uterine bleeding is bright red, and there may be a severe pain in the back during bleeding, followed by great weakness.

4. Ferrum Met – For Pale, Watery, Profuse Blood Flow

Ferrum Met is a significant medicine to manage abnormal uterine bleeding in cases where the blood flow is pale, watery and profuse. Even the smallest movement increases the flow. The bleeding is prolonged. During periods, the face may become fiery red, and sometimes be attended with a ringing in ears. Marked debility is present with the above features. Anaemia may be present in females requiring Ferrum Met.

5. Trillium Pendulum – For Profuse and Bright Red Bleeding

Trillium Pendulum is prepared from fresh root of a plant called Three-leaved Nightshade of the natural order Smilaceae. Trillium Pendulum is very beneficial for treating abnormal uterine bleeding which is profuse and bright red. The bleeding is gushing in nature and is attended with backache and pain in the hips. A great bearing-down sensation is felt in the pelvis which gets worse when walking and standing. Excessive bleeding may also cause dizziness and fainting.

6. Ustilago – For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding of Profuse, Dark Blood

Ustilago is well-indicated for treating cases of abnormal uterine bleeding with profuse, dark blood. The blood is highly coagulated and may form long, black strings. The blood may have fetid odour. Extreme pain arise during menstrual period. The bleeding may last for ten to fourteen days. It is also also indicated for frequent periods that arise every three weeks with dark, clotted blood.

7. Calcarea Carb – For Early, Profuse and Prolonged Periods

Use of medicine Calcarea Carb is considered in cases of abnormal uterine bleeding when there are early, profuse and prolonged periods. Periods arise every two weeks and tend to last around two weeks in duration. Vertigo may develop during periods. Other attending complaints during periods that may arise with above includes labor-like pains in the abdomen and back, pain in hip bones, headache, anxiety and restlessness. Weakness in the legs is also felt from frequent periods.

8. Ipecac – For Profuse Bleeding with Nausea, Vomiting

Ipecac is prepared from the dried root of a plant named Cephaelis Ipecacuanha of the natural order Rubiaceae. Ipecac is an excellent medicine for cases of abnormal uterine bleeding where profuse blood flow is attended with nausea and vomiting. The nausea vomiting is almost constant. The bleeding is bright red in colour and copious. Large clots may pass in the blood. It is accompanied by a cutting pain around the umbilicus. There is attending chilliness, dizziness and headache, and great weakness follows copious bleeding. Menses may appear every fourteen days in cases needing Ipecac.

9. Sepia – When Bleeding arises after Sexual Intercourse

Sepia is a remedy indicated for abnormal uterine bleeding with complaint of bleeding after sexual intercourse. Apart from this, Sepia is also indicated for profuse periods where flow is most excessive during the night. The bleeding is attended with bearing down pain in the pelvis. There may be feelings of sadness and irritability along with a headache during periods.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that mainly affects the joints. The joints get inflamed swollen, painful and stiff. In chronic cases, joint deformities may also develop. Rheumatoid arthritis mostly affects small joints, like fingers, wrist, ankles, and toes. However, with passing time, the large joints also tend to get involved. In the long run, extra-articular (outside the joint) sites may get involved too including eyes, heart, lungs, skin, blood vessels, kidneys, etc. Homeopathic medicines for complications of rheumatoid arthritis help to halt the progress of the disease and prevent further complications. Depending upon the type of complication, it can be either treated entirely with natural medicines or be managed symptomatically.       

The Main Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis arises from an autoimmune response whereby the synovium of a joint is attacked by immune cells from a misdirected response resulting in joint inflammation and its consequent symptoms. Certain factors put a person at risk to get rheumatoid arthritis, like a family history of rheumatoid arthritis, smoking, and obesity.

Complications of Rheumatoid Arthritis and their Homeopathic Solutions

Rheumatoid arthritis, if not treated early and controlled well in initial stages can go beyond inflammation of the joints and put a person at high risk of developing complications. These complications result from inflammation of the body parts other than the joints (by the same autoimmune process as for joint inflammation) in rheumatoid arthritis. Apart from this, the side effects of conventional treatment used for rheumatoid arthritis leads to many complications. The most common complications of rheumatoid arthritis include anemia, joint deformity, eye inflammation, insomnia, depression, carpal tunnel syndrome, Sjogren’s syndrome, osteoporosis, and pleurisy. Early diagnosis and regular treatment of rheumatoid arthritis may prevent many of these from developing. Ferrum Met, Causticum, Merc Sol, Coffea Cruda, Ignatia Amara, Hypericum, Nux Moschata, Calc. Phos and Bryonia are the top remedies to treat the various complications from RA.

Homeopathy medicines can help in effectively managing many complications of rheumatoid arthritis and improving the quality of life. These medicines work to manage the complications of rheumatoid arthritis by moderating the immune activity. The amount of recovery also varies as per the intensity and chronicity of the complications. Some complications like insomnia, depression, and carpal tunnel syndrome are treatable, while others like anemia, eye inflammation Sjogren’s syndrome, osteoporosis, and pleurisy can be managed symptomatically to a certain level. The help provided in case of a joint deformity is limited to management of pain and stiffness in the affected joint.

1. Anemia due to Blood Loss and More

Anemia is very commonly seen in rheumatoid arthritis cases.
Inflammation in the body causes the release of certain proteins that decrease the body’s ability to use iron. Another reason is reduced response to erythropoietin in case of rheumatoid arthritis. The kidneys make a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. Red blood cells in the body get reduced over a period due to the inability of the body to respond to erythropoietin.
Apart from this, conventional medications used for treating rheumatoid arthritis (including NSAID’s and steroids) may also lead to anemia through blood loss. NSAID’s can cause stomach ulcers that bleed and lead to anemia.

Ferrum Met – For Anemia in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Ferrum Met is a medicine used to treat anemia in rheumatoid arthritis. It yields excellent results in cases where there are symptoms like weakness and fatigue as a result of anemia. There is a lack of stamina to do any work, the face appears pale, vertigo and episodes of shortness of may appear frequently, and palpitations from minimum exertion may also be present.

2. Joint Deformity due to Proliferating Pannus

In rheumatoid arthritis, the inflammatory cells of the immune system accumulate in the synovial membrane. These cells form a proliferating pannus (abnormal layer of fibrovascular tissue). Certain substances are released from this pannus which can erode the bone, destroy the cartilage and the surrounding ligaments. This results in bone fusion and the joint becomes immobilized, losing its functioning ability.

Causticum – To Manage Joint Deformity

Causticum is a well-indicated medicine to help in the management of rheumatoid arthritis case where there is a joint deformity. Joint deformity with joint damage and contracted tendons indicate the need for this medicine. Causticum is a broad acting homeopathic medicine that offers help in reducing the stiffness, and pain in deformed joints in rheumatoid arthritis. The person needing this medicine may have tearing pain in affected joints. Warmth may help in relieving the joint pain. Although the joint deformity cannot be reversed with this medicine, it can help halt the further progression of joint damage by moderating the overactive immune system.

3. Eye Inflammations like Iritis, Scleritis, and Uveitis

Eye inflammation is a very common complication of rheumatoid arthritis. Iritis, scleritis, and uveitis are the types of eye inflammation seen in rheumatoid arthritis.
The sclera is the white part of the eye, and its inflammation is known as scleritis. The symptoms of scleritis include eye redness, pain, swelling, blurred vision, sensitivity to light and tearing.
The Uvea is the vascular layer of the eye, and its inflammation is known as uveitis.
Iritis is a form of uveitis where the iris gets inflammed. The symptoms of uveitis include pain and redness in the eyes, blurred vision, floating spots before eyes, and light sensitivity.

Merc Sol – For Eye Inflammation in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Merc Sol helps in managing symptoms of eye inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. The symptoms including burning in the eyes, pain in eyes and sensitivity to light, acrid eye discharges, foggy vision, floating black specks and dim vision.

4. Disturbed Sleep due to Pain

Disturbed sleep, poor quality sleep, and sleeplessness are commonly seen in cases of rheumatoid arthritis. It has been estimated that around 70 – 80% of the people dealing with rheumatoid arthritis face sleep issues.
Pain in the joints can keep the person awake at night. Lack of sleep modifies the way in which the central nervous system processes pain and worsens the pain perception, thereby reducing the pain tolerance. Disrupted sleep thus increases the pain sensitivity and a vicious cycle sets in, where joint pains decrease sleep quality and poor sleep cause more pain.
Conventional medicines (like prednisone) that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis may also cause insomnia.

Coffea Cruda – For Sleeplessness in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Coffea Cruda is a medicine used to manage sleeplessness in cases of rheumatoid arthritis. It is prepared from raw berries and dried seeds of Coffea arabica. The symptoms that indicate the need for Coffea Cruda are restless sleep, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. The person needing Coffea Cruda is highly sensitive to pain and suffers from intolerable pains. The pains are so severe that it leads to irritability and weeping. The person keeps on tossing and turning in bed.

5. Depression and its Link to Tissue Necrosis Factor

People with rheumatoid arthritis are at twice the risk to develop depression as compared to people who do not have RA. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease, and the pain related to it tends to make the person feel hopeless and depressed. In addition to the pain, the increased levels of tissue necrosis factor – alpha (TNF-a) in the blood (of people having RA) is linked with high risk of depression.

Ignatia Amara – For Depression in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Ignatia Amara is a useful medicine for treating depression in rheumatoid arthritis. This medicine helps in significant recovery from depression and imparts a sense of well being. This medicine can be used in people who have rheumatoid arthritis and tend to feel sad and depressed, weep bitterly, don’t like to talk and tend to remain alone. Hopelessness, irritability, mood swings, and heaviness in the head are other symptoms that indicate the need for this medicine.

6. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel is a space in the wrist which serves as a passageway for the median nerve and various tendons. Pinching or pressing of this median nerve leads to carpal tunnel syndrome. In rheumatoid arthritis affecting wrist joint, there are high chances to develop carpal tunnel syndrome. The swelling of joints and tendons narrows the space form which median nerve passes from the wrist. Due to the narrowing of the passageway the median nerve gets pinched, leading to carpal tunnel syndrome. The symptoms of this syndrome include numbness or tingling in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and the ring finger. A burning sensation in these fingers may also be present. Pains in the wrist/hand and weakness in the hand are other symptoms.

Hypericum Perforatum – For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Hypericum Perforatum is a natural medicine for carpal tunnel syndrome arising in rheumatoid arthritis. This medicine is prepared from the fresh plant named St.John’s –wort. The natural order of this plant is Hypericacee. This medicine gives excellent results in the case of carpal tunnel syndrome in rheumatoid arthritis cases. The symptoms indicative of this medicine are numbness or tingling sensation in thumb and fingers. A crawling or burning sensation in the fingers are some characteristic symptoms.

7. Sjogren’s Syndrome leading to Dry Eyes and Mouth

People with rheumatoid arthritis are at risk to develop Sjogren’s syndrome characterized by dry eyes and dry mouth due to the destruction of lachrymal glands and salivary glands respectively. The dry eyes cause a gritty sensation in the eyes, along with burning, redness, and itching in the eyes.
Dry mouth leads to difficulty in swallowing and speaking, and the lips may also become dry. A dry mouth also predisposes a person to develop fungal infections. Joint pains may also arise along with dry mouth and dry eyes.

Nux Moschata – For Sjogren’s Syndrome

The key indications for using Nux Moschata are excessive dryness of eyes and intensely dry mouth. Due to eyes dryness, there appears an inability to close eyes. The dryness of mouth is so marked that the tongue sticks to the roof of the mouth. A sensation of having cotton in the mouth may also felt. The dryness of mouth is worse at night time, and the lips too may get dry.

8. Bones Prone to Fractures due to Osteoporosis

In osteoporosis, the bones become fragile, brittle and very prone to fractures. The pain and resulting inactivity due to arthritis can further increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, and bone loss is more pronounced in the areas surrounding the joint affected by rheumatoid arthritis.
Additionally, the corticosteroids used for treating rheumatoid arthritis put a person at risk for osteoporosis. Medications like glucocorticoid (used for treating RA) also trigger a significant bone loss.

Calcarea Phos – For Managing Osteoporosis 

Calc Phos is an effective homeopathic medicine for managing osteoporosis in rheumatoid arthritis. This medicine helps in strengthening weak and brittle bones. It is useful in cases where fractures have occurred as a result of osteoporosis. In case of a fracture, homeopathic medicine Symphytum Officinale is a primary medicine that is used along with Calcarea Phos. Both these homeopathic medicines effectively help in bone healing.

9. Inflammation of Tissue Lining of Lungs

Inflammation of tissue lining of lungs and the inner side of the chest cavity is known as pleurisy. It leads to shortness of breath, chest pain and sometimes a cough. People with rheumatoid arthritis are at high risk to develop pleurisy, and it is one of the most common complications of rheumatoid arthritis.

Bryonia Alba – For Pleurisy in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Bryonia Alba is an important medicine for managing pleurisy in rheumatoid arthritis. This medicine is prepared from the plant wild hops belonging to natural order Cucurbitaceae. This medicine can be used along with conventional treatment. Bryonia Alba helps in managing the symptoms of pleurisy (inflammation of the lining of the lungs), like sharp chest pains and shortness of breath. The chest pain is seen to get worse from motion and on inspiration. A dry cough may also be present.

Swelling in the joints in most cases tends to arise as a result of conditions like arthritis, injuries, and infections. Swelling of joints due to arthritis includes issues like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, infectious arthritis, septic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. The injuries where joint swelling is seen include injury to muscles, ligaments, tendons of joints, fractures, sprains, and strains. Apart from the above, swollen joints also arise in case of bursitis and tendinitis. Homeopathic medicines for swelling in joints help reduce the pain and stiffness in joints and bring about remarkable recovery.       

Homeopathic Medicines for Swelling in Joints

Homeopathy medicines can effectively treat swelling in joints by reducing the swelling and addressing the root cause of the problem. The top grade medicines to treat swollen joints are Rhus Tox, Apis Mellifica, Bryonia, Benzoic Acid and Actaea Spicata.

1. Rhus Tox – Top grade Medicine for Swelling with Pain and Stiffness

Rhus Tox is a top listed medicine for treating swollen joints in cases where there is marked stiffness. The affected joints are red and warm to touch, and there may be associated with swelling, pain, and stiffness present. The pain tends to worsen at rest where Rhus Tox is indicated. Motion tends to give relief in the pain of joints. In addition to the above, the joints feel weak, and there may be cracking in them upon stretching. Winter aggravation of the complaints is also noted. Rhus Tox is a prominent medicine to treat swollen joints in cases of arthritis, inflamed tendons/ligaments, injuries, and sprains.

2. Apis Mellifica – Important Remedy for Swollen Joints

Apis Mellifica is another effective medicine for treating swollen joints. The indications for using Apis are swelling in the shoulder, wrist, fingers, knees, ankles, and toes. The affected joints are inflamed, sensitive and sore to touch and there may be stinging pains present. Apis Mellifica is a prominent medicine for treating joint swelling in cases of arthritis, bursitis, and synovitis.

3. Bryonia – For Swelling with Pain Worsening from Motion

Bryonia is prepared from the root of the plant Bryonia Alba commonly named as White Bryony or Wild Hops. The natural order of this plant is Cucurbitaceae. Bryonia is well-indicated for treating swollen joints with pain that worsens from motion. Rest relieves the pain. The pains are mostly sharp, stitching or tearing in nature. The affected joints look red and shining and can be hot to touch because of pain and swelling. The joints are also tender and sensitive to touch. In cases needing Bryonia, warmth tends to relieve the pain. Bryonia is majorly indicated for swollen joints in conditions like arthritis or gout.

4. Benzoic Acid – For Swelling due to Gout

Benzoic Acid is a very significant medicine for treating swollen joints from gout. Benzoic Acid can be used as a remedy in cases of swelling in the wrist, elbow, knee, and great toe. The joints are also markedly red and painful. These symptoms tend to worsen during the night.

5. Actaea Spicata – For Swelling of Wrist Joint and Other Small Joints

Actaea Spicata is prepared from the root of a plant named Baneberry or Herb Christopher. The natural order of this plant is Ranunculaceae. Actaea Spicata is a highly effective medicine for treating swelling of the wrist joint. The wrist is red, swollen and intolerable to touch. The motion of the wrist is impossible. Actaea Spicata is also well-indicated for swelling of other small joints including the ankle, fingers, and toes. Swelling on the affected joints can appear from the slightest fatigue or even walking. There may be a pain in the joints which can be tearing or drawing in nature along with tingling. The pains tend to get worse from touch and motion in cases where Actaea Spicata is required.

6. Calcarea Carb – For Swelling in the Knee Joint

Calcarea Carb is useful to treat swelling of the knee joint. In cases requiring Calcarea Carb, the knee is warm and sensitive to touch along with swelling. This swelling tends to worsen during the night. In addition to the swelling, stinging, drawing or tearing pains tend to appear in the knee. The pains get worse from motion, and a cracking sound may be heard in the knee while walking. Weakness and lameness in the knees may also be present along with the above features.

7. Ledum Pal – For Swelling of the Ankle Joint

Ledum Pal is a magnificent medicine prepared from a plant called Wild Rosemary also known by the name of Marsh Cistus or Marsh Tea. The natural order of this plant is Ericaceae. Ledum Pal is a high-grade medicine to treat swelling of the ankle joint. Along with swelling, intolerable pain in the ankles is present. Stepping and warmth worsen the ankle pain, and the foot may feel heavy. Pressure is also felt in the ankle and lower part of the leg, and there may be itching present on the ankles. Ledum Pal is a foremost medicine to treat sprains of ankles and feet.

8. Arnica – For Swelling due to Injury

Arnica is prepared from the plant Arnica Montana commonly known as Leopard’s-Bane or Fallkraut. The natural order of this plant is Compositae. Arnica is a prime medicine for treating joint swelling that arises from injuries. Here, sore bruised pain in the joints is marked. In some cases, a drawing pain with crawling and pricking sensation in the joints is present. There is great fear to touch the affected joint due to intense pain.

9. Ruta – For Swelling and Pain due to Sprains and Inflamed Tendons, Ligaments

Ruta is prepared from the plant Ruta Graveolens commonly known by the name of Garden Rue or Bitterwort. The natural order of this plant is Rutaceae. Ruta is a prominent medicine to treat cases of joint swelling and pain from sprains and inflamed tendons and ligaments. The pain attending swelling of joints is mostly sore, aching, and bruised in nature. The joint also feels lame with swelling and pain in cases where Ruta is indicated.

Symptoms Accompanying Swelling in Joints

There is a possibility of swelling in a single joint, or in multiple joints. The main symptoms that accompany swollen joints include pain and stiffness in the joints. The affected joint may be red, tender and feel warm to touch. Mobility of the joint may be reduced, depending upon the intensity of swelling and pain in the joint.

Photophobia or light sensitivity is a symptom where a person experiences discomfort or pain in the eyes upon exposure to bright light. People who have photophobia tend to blink often, squint, are unable to open their eyes fully on exposure to light and tend to close their eyes. People who have light sensitivity are troubled by bright light, but in severe cases any sort of light is intolerable. People having photophobia tend to experience symptoms like eye strain, eye pain, burning in the eyes, and excessive tear production. They may also experience headaches. Homeopathic medicines for light sensitivity (photophobia) work in cases where the cause of photophobia is not related to any serious issue related to the eye or brain.                                                       

Homeopathic Medicines for Light Sensitivity

There are excellent medicines in homeopathy to manage the complaint of photophobia. Homeopathy medicines help manage photophobia effectively by correcting the root cause of it. The top listed medicines to treat photophobia are Euphrasia, Belladonna, Natrum Mur, Conium, and Glonoine. Before using these medicines for photophobia, it is important to rule out the cause of it. Cases of photophobia where some critical eye or brain disorder is suspected should be treated immediately under the conventional mode of treatment.

1. Euphrasia – Top Grade Medicine to treat Photophobia

Euphrasia is prepared from a plant Euphrasia Officinalis commonly known by the name of Eyebright. The natural order of this plant is Scrophulariaceae. Euphrasia is top listed medicine to treat cases of photophobia. Eyes are very sensitive to light, and there may be spasm of the lids in some cases. Photophobia is worse during the day and in sunlight, and the affected person has a desire to remain in a darkened room. Eye pain and pressure, aching and darting-type pain is felt in the eyes when exposed to light. The eyes become red and there may be itching. Burning, biting in eyes, with smarting, hot, excoriating lachrymation is also present. A sensation of dust or sand in eyes is felt. Euphrasia is prominently indicated for photophobia in cases of iritis, keratitis, conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers.

2. Belladonna – For Photophobia with Dry Eyes

Belladonna is prepared from a plant named Deadly Nightshade. The natural order of this plant is Solanaceae. Belladonna is useful to manage the complaint of photophobia with dry eyes. There is intolerance to light with a desire to remain in dark room in cases needing Belladonna. The eyes get congested and look very red. Photophobia worsens on exposure to artificial light. Along with this, a gritty sensation in the eyes may be felt. Pain in the head and eyes are present, and it may be stinging or shooting in nature. It gets worse from movement and light. There may be a heated sensation present in the eyes. Belladonna is also indicated for keratitis with a congested eye, pain in eye and photophobia.

3. Natrum Mur – For Spasmodic Closure of Lids

Natrum Mur is a significant medicine for cases of photophobia where the eyes tend to close on exposure to light. The eyes may water and there may be a burning sensation. Severe pain in the temples may be felt along with blurring of vision. Natrum Mur is also a high-grade medicine to treat cases of blepharitis where photophobia is marked. In such cases, other symptoms are also present that include acrid eye discharge and burning/smarting in eyes.

4. Conium – For Photophobia with Excessive Flow of Tears

Conium is a well-indicated medicine for managing photophobia with an excessive flow of tears. The photophobia is severe and the flow of tears is profuse. The person feels better in a dark room. The borders of the eyelid may be swollen. There may be ulcers present on the cornea. This medicine is indicated in cases where the eye pain gets better by pressure.

5. Glonoine – For Photophobia with Headache

Glonoine is highly beneficial for photophobia that appears with a headache. The headache is throbbing and congestive in nature. Headache is marked in the temporal region, and the person feels as if the head would burst from pain. Heat is also felt in the head, and there is a marked sensitivity to light. Flickering or black spots may also be seen before the eyes. The eyes get red, and there may be a dimness of vision. In some cases, vertigo also accompanies the above symptoms.

6. Arsenic Album – Where there is a Burning Sensation in the Eyes

Arsenic Album is a helpful medicine for photophobia with a burning sensation in the eyes. The eyes are sensitive to light, especially to sunlight. The person may lie in bed with the face buried in a pillow. Profuse, hot and acrid lachrymation is present, and the eyelids may stick together due to it. The eyes appear red swollen, the vision may become dim and a tearing pain around the eyes may arise from exposure to light.

7. Phosphorus – For Managing Photophobia with Pain in Eyes

Phosphorus is a helpful medicine for managing photophobia with pain in the eyes. The pain is intense and shooting in nature. There may be dimness or blurring of vision. The person may see black points or sparks before the eyes. Phosphorus also helps in cases of glaucoma with intense photophobia.

8. Sulphur – For Photophobia with Stitching Pain in the Eyes

Sulphur is suitable for cases of photophobia where stitching pain in the eyes is present along with sensitivity to light. There may be a feeling of fullness in the eyes when exposed to bright light. In some cases where Sulphur is indicated, there may be violent, pressive pains all around the orbit of the eye that arises upon exposure to sunlight. Redness of eyes is also marked. A sensation as if the eyes are full of sand is prominent. Itching and burning sensation in the eyes may also be present. Ulcers on the cornea with excessive photophobia and intense redness of eye also point towards the use of this medicine. Another indication for using Sulphur is keratitis with photophobia.

9. Merc Sol – For Burning Pains and Acrid Lachrymation

Merc Sol is indicated for cases of photophobia with burning pain in the eyes along with acrid lachrymation. There is a flow of hot tears from the eye. Along with this, tearing pains in forehead attend. Pain in the eyes may be present along with inflammation.

Causes of Photophobia

The causes of photophobia vary from mild to serious. The most common cause of photophobia is migraine headaches. The eye conditions that can lead to photophobia include corneal abrasion, dry eyes, conjunctivitis, keratitis, iritis, uveitis, blepharitis, detached retina, and cataracts. Sometimes photophobia arises following eye surgery. Photophobia may arise in certain brain conditions including encephalitis, meningitis, brain injury. Some medicines including furosemide, quinine, antihistamines, non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and sulfonamides can also lead to photophobia.

The normal duration of menstruation varies from woman to woman and can be anywhere between 3 to 7 days. Once in a while having a period that is shorter than normal is not a cause of concern. However, a decrease in the duration of a menstrual period for several months altogether in a female when compared to the usual pattern should be investigated. It is normal to have menstrual irregularities and change in the duration and flow of periods at puberty. This is because it takes time for the hormones to regularise a specific pattern for the first few years after menarche. It is also normal to face changes in menstrual flow and duration during the perimenopausal age. Homeopathic medicines for short periods or scanty periods help regularise the natural processes and treat the condition effectively. 

Apart from these, short periods may arise from several hormonal problems and other factors that need to be corrected and treated to solve this problem. They mainly include PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and thyroid dysfunction. Other factors that contribute to short periods include breastfeeding, low body weight, stress, excessive exercise, eating disorders, use of OCP’s (oral contraceptive pills) also make changes in duration/flow of the menstrual period. Certain medications like NSAID’s (non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs), antidepressants and thyroid medications also tend to shorten menstrual flow. Premature ovarian failure and Asherman syndrome are rare conditions in which short periods appear.

Homeopathic Medicines for Short Periods

The complaint of short or scanty periods can be effectively treated with natural homeopathy medicines. The top grade medicines to treat cases of short periods are Pulsatilla, Sepia, Conium, Viburnum, and Lachesis. The most suitable medicine among them is selected as per every individual case based on the characteristic features. Homeopathy medicines work at treating the root cause which is leading to a short duration of menses. Once the root cause is corrected the duration of periods is improved.

1. Pulsatilla – Top Grade Medicine to Treat Short Periods

Pulsatilla is prepared from a plant named Pulsatilla Nigricans commonly known by the name of pasque flower or windflower. The natural order of this plant is Ranunculaceae. Pulsatilla is top-listed medicine for treating complaint of short periods. The flow of blood is also scanty in addition to being short. The flow is most prominent in the daytime only in cases needing Pulsatilla. The flow may be dark or blackish in color. Pain during periods with cramps abdomen and vomiting may attend. Chilliness may be present during periods. Before and after periods vaginal discharge may be prominent.

2. Sepia – For Scanty Periods that Last for One Day

Sepia is the next well-indicated medicine to treat short periods. It is useful in females in whom periods last only for one day. Menses may be irregular too appearing early or late but last for short duration only. Bearing down pain in the pelvis during periods is a characteristic attending feature. During periods sadness, headache, nausea, vomiting and great prostration are felt. Yellowish, thick, profuse leucorrhea appear before and after menses.

3. Conium – For Short and Late Periods

Conium is a beneficial medicine to treat cases where periods are short and appear late. Sometimes menses don’t appear for two to three months altogether in females needing Conium. When they appear they are short and may be clotted. Drawing pain in legs during menses may be felt. Violent itching in the vagina may appear after periods.

4. Viburnum – For Short Periods that Last only for Few Hours

Viburnum is prepared from fresh bark of a plant named Viburnum Opulus. This plant has many common names including High Cranberry Bush, Cramp Bark, and Water Elder. The natural order of this plant is Caprifoliaceae. Viburnum is prominently indicated medicine for cases of short periods where flow last only for a few hours. Menstrual flow is also scanty, thin and light-colored where Viburnum is required. During periods, nausea, cramping pain and great nervous restlessness is felt. Before periods severe bearing down pains in uterus and drawing in anterior muscles of thighs are present.

5. Lachesis – For Short and Scanty Periods

Lachesis is useful for treating short and scanty periods. The menstrual flow is dark, black, dirty looking and lumpy. They also have an offensive odor. During periods labor-like pressure from loins downwards is felt. Bruised feeling in hips and Soreness about the pelvic region is also prominent. A tendency to have late periods may be there in some cases.

6. Apis Mellifica – For Short Periods that Last for One to Two Days

Apis Mellifica is beneficial to treat short periods that last for one to two days only. Violent, cramp-like pain appear during periods. Flow is scanty of dark, bloody mucus. The menses are accompanied by great weakness. Ovarian pain of cutting, stinging nature is felt especially on the right side during periods. Frequent urination is another symptoms arising during periods in cases requiring Apis Mellifica. It is a high-grade medicine to treat menstrual complaints linked with cysts, tumors, inflammation of the ovary.

7. Euphrasia – For Short Periods where Flow Lasts for an Hour

Euphrasia Officinalis is a plant commonly known by the name of Eye-Bright of the natural order Scrophulariaceae. Euphrasia is helpful for cases of short periods where flow lasts only for one hour. Periods have a tendency to appear late in females, the flow is scanty and the menses are painful in addition to being short and scanty.

8. Thuja – For Early and Short Periods

Thuja is prepared from fresh green twigs of a plant Thuja Occidentalis having common name Arbor Vitae of the natural order Coniferae. Thuja is indicated to treat cases where periods are very short and appear too early. Before menses, pain in left ovary, heat in head, profuse sweating, headache, and labor-like abdominal pains are present. During and after menses tiredness arise. Sleeplessness also tends to appear after menses.