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

Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines For Cracked Nipples

Cracked nipples is a complaint that is frequently faced by breastfeeding mothers. However, it may also happen in other women who are not breastfeeding. In the latter, it may arise due to trauma, some skin conditions (like eczema, psoriasis), or infection affecting nipples. Cracked nipples can be accompanied by other signs and symptoms. These include redness, soreness, irritation, oozing, and scabbing/crusting on the nipples or around it. This area may be dry, painful, tender and sometimes there may be bleeding too. In some cases itching, scaling, blisters or ulcers may appear on nipples.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy offers a very safe, natural and effective management for cases of cracked nipples. Homeopathic medicines help to halt the further progression of the condition and heal the cracks that are already present in the nipples. They also manage signs and symptoms which accompany the disease. These include redness, soreness, oozing, scabbing / crusting, pain, tenderness, itching, bleeding, scaling, blisters or ulcers. The most suitable medicine for managing the complaints of cracked nipples needs to be selected on a case-to-case basis depending on the signs and symptoms. So it is advised to take any homeopathic medicine only after consultation with a homeopathic physician.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for cracked nipples

1. Graphites – Top-grade Medicine

Graphites is administered when the nipples are cracked and painful. The nipples also become sore. In some cases, small blisters (fluid-filled eruptions) may be present on the nipples. There may be ulcers on the nipples sometimes. It may ooze a thin fluid discharge or thick sticky fluid. It may be followed by formation of a crust. Graphites is well indicated for sore, cracked nipples that may ooze fluid in nursing women. Lastly, it is a highly valuable medicine for managing cases of eczema of the nipples.

2. Phytolacca

It is prepared from plant Phytolacca Decandra, commonly known as ‘poke-root’ and ‘red ink plant’. This plant belongs to family Phytolaccaceae.

This medicine benefits mothers with sore, sensitive, and cracked nipples. Sometimes small ulcers around the nipples may show up. It is very useful for nursing mothers, whose nipples are intensely sensitive and there can be pain while breastfeeding. In such cases, the pain emanates from the nipple and goes to the entire body. It is also one of the best medicines for managing mastitis .

3. Silicea

This medicine works well in case of cracked and ulcerated nipples. The nipples can be inflamed too in some cases needing it. Soreness and tenderness is marked in the nipples. Lastly, darting or burning pain mainly in the left nipple can be felt.

4. Castor Equi – For Cracked Nipples During Breastfeeding

It is a very useful medicine for managing cracked nipples during breastfeeding. The nipples are sore and very tender also. The tenderness is so intense that even touch of the clothes is not bearable to the sufferer. In addition to the above, there may be redness of the areola.

5. Sulphur

It is a very beneficial medicine for women with sore cracked nipples. They also present itching and burning pain. Cracks may be deep at the base of the nipples. Burning sensation is intense. Sometimes there may be smarting and stinging sensation that gets worse after every breastfeeding session. It is also administered for bleeding from the cracks that may occur after feeding the baby. Next indication for its use is in case of yellow scales on the areola. It may ooze fluid. Itching and burning is felt in it mainly during the night. Lastly, it is an important medicine when ulcers are formed on the nipples.

6. Sepia

This medicine is prominently given when the nipples are sore, cracked, and bleed. It may be preceded by itching. Nipples are excoriated and also ulcerated.

7. Aurum Sulph

This medicine offers help to those who have cracked painful nipples. Among those needing it, the nipple pain is sharp or piercing. In addition to this, there may be swelling of breasts that is sensitive to touch.

8. Fluoric Acid

Use of this medicine is recommended for cases in which the nipples are red and itchy along with cracks. The nipples are also sore. Swelling may also be there in the right nipple.

9. Lycopodium

It is a natural medicine prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum having common name called ‘club moss.’ It belongs to family lycopodiaceae. This medicine is useful when there are cracked nipples that bleed easily. In some cases, moist scabs are present on the nipples. Soreness and rawness of nipples is also present. Pain is felt in the nipples with the above symptoms. The pain can be stitching or burning in nature. It may sometimes be of stinging nature as well.

10. Merc Cor

It is the last medicine in the list to manage cases of cracked nipples. The main indicating feature for using it is cracked nipples along with severe pain in the nipples while breastfeeding the child. Tendency of bleeding from cracked nipples may also be present in females who require this medicine.

What Are The Causes?

Though cracked nipples occur most commonly in breastfeeding mothers, there are some other causes too.

A) Causes of Cracked nipples in breastfeeding mothers

The first main reason behind cracked nipples is breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is not something that causes pain and not all breastfeeding mothers get cracked nipples. But in some of the nursing mothers, this may happen.

Firstly, it can be a result from poor latch (latch means how a baby puts his mouth on mother’s breast for sucking milk). A good latch (the nipple and large part of the areola is in the baby’s mouth) is needed for high milk flow and comfortable feeding session and the mother feels no pain or discomfort in the nipple. If the latch is poor, it means baby is latching only on to the nipple and not the aeorla and it leads to poor milk transfer to baby and may cause sore and cracked nipples on the breast. Nipple cracks from breastfeeding are mostly seen during the first month after delivery. This is because a newborn baby is still learning the right way to latch and take feed and in that process can cause trauma and cracked nipples. Poor latching may also occur if the baby has tongue tie, high palate or small mouth.

Next, it can arise if the baby is not positioned correctly during the breastfeeding session.

Breast engorgement is another condition that can lead to it. Breast engorgement refers to hard, swollen, painful, tender breasts due to increase in volume of breast milk. It can lead to changes in the shape of the nipple area and can cause hinderance in proper latching of the baby onto the breast.

The chances of cracked nipples are also more if the baby is made to use feeding bottle in addition to breastfeeding. This is because the method of milk sucking is separate for both breast and bottle. It may cause nipple confusion to the baby and trauma to the nipple.

Incorrect use of breast pumps, for example from very high suction level, may also lead to cracks.

B) Causes of cracked nipples other than breastfeeding

Among other causes the first is trauma to nipples from cuts, blows or friction (as from ill-fitted clothes) that can cause cracking or chafing of the nipple.

Next, are certain skin conditions. Its first example is eczema/dermatitis, a skin condition in which red, inflamed rashes on the skin that are itchy can be spotted. Roughness and cracking may be present too. In some cases, blisters appear that may leak fluid, followed by crusting and scaling. It may also be caused due to some allergic reaction from direct contact of nipple with an irritant (like soap, lotion, certain fabrics, detergent).

Another reason could be psoriasis. It is an autoimmune skin disease in which red, inflamed patches appear on the skin covered by silvery-white scales/flakes. It may be attended with itching, soreness, or burning. Dryness and cracks may also occur in these patches. These may bleed too. Though psoriasis commonly affects knees, elbows, and scalp, it may also affect other body parts including nipples in some cases.

Lastly, it can occur from bacterial or fungal infections. An example of bacterial infection is infection from bacteria named Staphyloccus. Thrush is a fungal infection that can be passed from newborns (if they have it in mouth) to mother’s nipples during breastfeeding.

What Are Its Complications?

The complication that can arise in these cases is mastitis if the bacteria gain entry in the breast tissue through the cracked nipples and causes an infection.

Mastitis refers to inflammation of the breast tissue. Its signs and symptoms include swollen, red, painful and tender breasts. Heat and burning sensation in the breast, general malaise and fever may also be present. If left untreated or not treated correctly, there are chances of formation of mammary abscess (pus-filled lump in the breast).

Urtica Urens: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 10 Comments

Urtica Urens is prepared from the plant Urtica Dioica commonly called ‘stinging nettle’ (bichhubutti). It belongs to the family Urticaceae. This homoeopathic remedy is prepared from a fresh plant when in flower via potentization. It is a process of preparing homeopathic medicines that extracts and arouses medicinal properties from crude substance. It is a superb medicine to manage complaints of urticaria/hives, gout, burns/scalds and kidney stones.

The ‘Urtica Urens’ Constitution

Urtica Urens is recommended to persons who suffer from joint pains due to high uric acid levels (gout).

Drug Action

This medicine mainly works on the skin and the joints. Other than this, its action is noted in the urinary organs, female genitals and breast.

Clinical Indications

Hives (urticaria), allergic reactions, burns, scalds, sunburn, bee stings, herpes labialis, prickly heat, gout, deltoid pain, kidney stones

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Skin Problems (Hives, Burns, Scalds, Sunburn, Herpes, Prickly Heat)

Urtica Urens treats skin problems very well. This medicine is extensively used in the treatment of urticaria also known as hives. Urticaria is a skin complaint in which red, itchy bumps (wheals) appear on the skin from an allergic reaction. There is violent itching along with burning heat in the affected area.

Hives

Other than this, formication (sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin) accompanies. For cases where hives are formed from eating shellfish, it is the best medicine. This medicine is also prominently indicated for cases in which urticaria occurs along with or alternating with joint pains. Its use is also suggested when urticaria gets worse every year in the same season.

Urtica Urens is a powerful medicine for managing cases of burns and scalds. It is mainly prescribed in cases of first degree burns (burns that affect the first layer of the skin). Its use is recommended in the form of external application as well for internal use. Urtica Urens is also a superior remedy for cases of sunburn (red, swollen, inflamed and painful skin that arises from overexposure to UV rays from the sun). In such cases, this medicine helps to allay intense burning and itching on the skin.

Another complaint that this medicine can handle wonderfully is prickly heat (skin rash arising from sweat getting trapped under the skin). This medicine can be given in cases of herpes of lips (herpes labialis) caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). A burning sensation on the skin is followed by painful blisters (fluid-filled bumps). In these cases, it can be used when there is marked itching and heat sensation. Lastly, its use is also considered in cases of bee stings. External application of Urtica Urens on the particular point of bee sting is known to give quick relief.

Key Indicating Features

Hives with raised red wheals with violent itching, burning and formication

Hives from eating shellfish

Urticaria occurring along with or alternating with joint pains

First-degree burns affecting the first layer of skin

Sunburn with intense burning and itching on skin

Herpes of lips with marked itching and heat sensation

Bee stings

2. Joint And Limbs Complaints (Gout, Deltoid Pain, Blisters)

Gout

Gout can be tackled magnificently with this medicine. Gout refers to pain, swelling, redness and inflammation of joints from increased uric acid levels in the blood. This medicine works equally well in acute as well as chronic cases of gout especially of wrists and ankles. Other than this, it is useful in managing stiffness and soreness on the inner side of the left knee.

Deltoid muscle on the shoulder

Its use is preferred in cases of pain in deltoid muscle (muscles that help us move our arms). It gets worse on rotating the affected arm inwards. Mostly pain occurs in right sided deltoid and is continuous type. This medicine can be given in cases of blisters on the skin of hands and fingers which are raised and red with itching.

Key Indicating Features

Gout pains in ankles and wrist

Pain in deltoid muscle, worse on rotating arm inwards

Red, itchy blisters on skin of hands and fingers

3. Urinary Issues (Kidney Stones, Strangury, Bleeding)

Urtica Urens acts well on the urinary organs. Here it is effective in treating bladder and kidney stones. This medicine can be given when there is strangury means painful, frequent urination, with scanty urine expelled slowly with straining. Lastly, it is indicated for bleeding from urinary bladder.

Key Indicating Features

Bladder and kidney stones

Painful, frequent urination with scanty urine expelled slowly with straining

4. Female Problems (Pruritis Vulvae, Breast Swelling, Diminished Breast Milk)

For females, it is recommended to manage pruritis vulvae (itching of external genitals including mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, and clitoris). Along with itching, stinging sensation and swelling can be present in vulva. This medicine acts well on breast. It proves very effective in complaints of swollen breasts with stinging, burning pain. It is also useful for cases of diminished breast milk in females after child birth.

Key Indicating Features

Itching in vulva along with stinging and swelling

Swelling of breast with stinging, burning

Diminished breast milk in females after child birth

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from touch, yearly, from cool moist air

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from lying down

Dosage

Its use is recommended in mother tincture form and low potencies. This medicine can be repeated frequently depending on case presentation. In case of bee stings and burns, external application of this medicine is also suggested.

Relationship with Other Remedies

1.Urtica Urens can be compared with medicines Apis Mellifica, Natrum Mur and Astacus in case of urticaria.

2. Its comparison can be done with medicine Ricinus Communis in cases of diminished milk secretion in females after childbirth.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Treating Genital Sores In Women

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

What are female genital sores?

Female genital sores refer to flesh-colored red bumps or fluid-filled blisters/vesicles in or around the vagina. They may be single or multiple in number varying from case to case.

They may or may not be attended with any signs and symptoms. Itching, pain, tenderness, burning sensation, bleeding and discharge are some of its symptoms. Some of the sores may be contagious (spread from direct skin to skin contact).

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic medicines are very effective in treating female genital sores. These medicines help to heal the sores in the genitals and halt further progression of the sores. Besides, they help to manage any associated itching, pain, burning sensation, if present. It is advised to take homeopathic medicines for treating genital sores in women under the supervision of a homeopathic doctor. This is because a doctor can evaluate the cause behind it and based on the cause and the individual’s symptoms, he/she can give the best suitable medicine. Use of homeopathic medicines is recommended only when sores occur from a benign (non-cancerous) cause. While in case of cancerous causes, it is strictly advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Genital Sores In Women

1. Sepia – Top grade medicine

It is a leading homeopathic medicine for treating genital sores in women. Firstly, it is helpful for cases in which pimples appear all around the vulva. It is attended with severe itching of the vulva. Secondly, it is useful for treating non-painful fluid-filled eruptions on the outer parts of the vulva. The other indication for using Sepia is red, swollen inner labia with itchy eruptions. Lastly, it is a well-indicated medicine for managing vaginal inflammation. In such cases, yellow–colored vaginal discharge is present. It may be accompanied by a burning sensation. Besides, vagina may be tender with pain during sexual intercourse.

2. Natrum Mur – For Cases Of Genital Herpes

It is a well-indicated medicine for cases in which sores occur from genital herpes infection. Females needing it have soreness in the vagina along with itching. During intercourse, they feel burning sensation in the vagina. They may also feel soreness and burning in the vagina after urination.

3. Thuja – For Genital Warts

It is prepared from fresh twigs of a plant Thuja Occidentalis having common name Arbor Vitae. This plant belongs to family Coniferae. It is a very effective medicine for treating genital warts. It is indicated when there are warts around the vulva. The warts may be present on the labium. These are painful to touch and may bleed easily. Other than warts, it is also valuable for treating ulcers on the inner surface of vulva and labia majora. Pain in the vulva may be felt in the sitting position.

4. Graphites – For Pimples, Vesicles On Vulva And Eczema Around Vulva

This medicine is helpful for cases in which there are pimples or vesicles (fluid-filled eruptions) on the vulva. These are itchy. Smarting sensation(burning) and pain may also be felt in the pimples. In some cases needing it, there may be vesicles in the vagina and on the labia also. It is also a very suitable medicine for managing eczema around the vulva.

5. Nitric Acid – For Vaginal Inflammation

This medicine works well in cases of vaginal inflammation. Vaginal discharge can be watery, or stringy and is green or brown in colour. It has an offensive smell. Swelling, itching and burning sensation is felt in the vagina and vulva. Besides, cracks and ulcers may be present on the labia minora.

6. Petroleum – For Sore, Inflamed Vulva And Vaginal Burning

Petroleum is an important medicine for cases presenting with soreness in the vulva, inflamed vulva and burning in vagina. It is accompanied by profuse vaginal discharge which is irritating. It looks like egg white and it wears off the skin. Excessive itching and sweating in labia is felt. Weakness is another symptom.

7. Merc Sol – For Pimple Eruptions On Labia

This medicine is indicated when there are pimples on the labia. It gets worse at night. There may be inflammation of vagina and swelling of labia. In such cases, burning and itching of vagina is present. There is yellow or greenish colored discharge from the vagina. It is smarting corroding type. It may also look like pus sometimes. Other than this, whitish patches like ulcers on mucus surface of genitals can be present. There may be little red elevations on these patches. There is burning in vagina when urine passes through it.

7. Sabina – For Genital Warts And Cyst In Vulva

It is prepared from young, fresh tops of the branches of plant Sabina Officinalis commonly called ‘Juniperus Sabina’ and ‘Savine’. It belongs to family Coniferae. It is of great value for treating genital warts. These are attended with itching and burning where Sabina is required. Secondly, it is an important medicine to treat cysts in the vulva. They are sensitive to touch and pain of tearing nature may be felt in them while resting.

8. Kreosote – For Vulva And Vaginal Inflammation

It is a very suitable medicine for inflammation in the vulva and vagina. It is accompanied with itching in vagina and vulva. After scratching, soreness and burning is felt. Swelling and heat is also there in external genitals. One feels pain in vagina while passing urine as it is sore. Pain in vagina during sex is another complaint. Vaginal discharge occurs follows which is yellow. It mostly precedes every urination. Frequent urination is present along with these complaints.

9. Lycopodium – For Dry Warts On Female Genitals

It is prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum commonly known as ‘club moss’. It belongs to family Lycopodiaceae. It is a very beneficial medicine for treating dry warts on female genitalia. They are pedunculated (attached with a stalk) and painless. Lycopodium also helps in relieving serious cysts in vagina. It also manages burning of vagina during and after sexual intercourse.

What Are The Reasons Behind It?

In some cases, they appear without any cause and disappear by themselves. While in others, there may be a medical reason, like a skin disorder or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The common cause that can cause sores in female genitals is sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that mostly include genital herpes and genital warts. Genital herpes is a very common sexually transmitted infection caused by HSV (herpes simplex virus). It causes sores in the genital area. The sores may be itchy and painful. In some cases, no signs or symptoms are visible.

Genital warts is a very common type of sexually transmitted infection. These are caused by some strains of HPV – human papillomavirus. These appear as small, flesh-colored bumps on the genitals. Some may also have a cauliflower-like appearance.

Some less common STIs that can cause genital sores are syphilis, chancroid and molluscum contagiosum.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria Treponema pallidum. It starts as a painless sore on the genitals, rectum or the mouth. This is followed by a rash on the trunk that spreads to cover the entire body. Chancroid is an STI caused by bacteria Haemophilus ducreyi. In this infection, open painful sores develop in the genital area. The lymph nodes in groin may also swell and cause pain.

Molluscum Contagiosum is a skin infection that is caused by virus Molluscum contagiosum. Raised bumps that are small, smooth, shiny can develop on the face, thighs, buttocks, groin, lower abdomen, on the genitals and around the anus.

Other than STIs, there are some skin disorders that can cause genital sores. The first among them is eczema —

a skin condition in which patches of skin get red and inflamed attended by itching. Fluid-filled eruptions called blisters may develop on the affected skin area. It may also get rough and cracked in some cases.

Second is contact dermatitis, a skin condition in which the skin gets red, sore and inflamed after coming in contact with chemicals in some substances like detergents, perfumes, creams, feminine sprays, douches, etc). Another reason could be the formation of cysts (a lump that may be filled with fluid, semi-solid material or air). Inflamed vulva or vagina (vulvovaginitis) could also be a reason for sores in the private parts. In this case, increased vaginal discharge, itching and irritation in the genital area along with discomfort while passing urine may occur. Other than this, it may be caused by trauma or a scratch on the genitals that becomes infected. Lastly, these may be present in case of cancer of the vulva and other types of skin cancer (including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma).

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

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 10 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Ferrum Metallicum is derived from the metal iron. Iron is inert in its crude state. To prepare homeopathic medicine Ferrum Metallicum, it undergoes potentization. This process extracts medicinal properties from a crude substance. It is a top-grade medicine for managing anemia, and weakness, controlling bleeding and treating certain female disorders.

The ‘Ferrum Metallicum’ Constitution

This medicine is best suited to young, anemic persons. Those needing it look strong but are extremely weak. They are unable to walk and speak proerly and feel like lying down all the time.

Drug Action

The benefits of this medicine are widespread and it acts on multiple organs. It acts well on blood, ears, head, nose, female genitals, gastric system, respiratory organs, heart and limbs.

Clinical Indications

Anemia, blood loss, weakness, menstruation disorders, epistaxis, cough, nausea, vomiting, shoulder pain, joint pain, diarrhea, constipation, asthma

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Complaints Related To Blood (Anemia, Weakness From Blood Loss)

Ferrum Metallicum has marked action on blood. It is a well-known medicine in homeopathy to manage cases of anemia. Lack of enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to body tissues is called anemia. It is given mainly when there is marked exhaustion due to anemia. The face looks pale, with dull eyes along with bluish rings around the eyes. Vertigo may be present, along with nausea. Palpitations can occur too that get worse from the least motion. It is a highly effective medicine for complaints like weakness following blood loss (hemorrhage).

2. Female Problems (Heavy Periods, Painful Menses, Vaginal Discharge)

It is an important homeopathic medicine to deal with various health issues in females. Primarily its use is considered in cases of heavy periods. It is highly recommended when menses are very profuse and also last longer than usual. The bleeding is pale watery. Females needing it experience increase of blood flow during menses from the slightest movement. It is attended with labor-like pains in lower abdomen and lower back. They may have a tendency for early periods as well. Due to heavy menses, there is excessive weakness. Ringing sounds may emanate from the ears. Headache and vertigo during heavy periods may be present. Ferrum Metallicum also relieves painful periods (dysmenorrhoea). It is given especially when a female complains of shooting pain in the uterus. Pain is intense along with scanty pale blood flow. This medicine is recommended for managing vaginal discharge (leucorrhoea). It is used for milky watery vaginal discharge. It is attended with smarting pain and itching of vulva. Dragging pain in lower back, pelvis and thighs may occur along with vaginal discharge. Another complaint where it offers help is suppressed menses (amenorrhoea). Here it works well when headache, nervousness, tiredness are associated with this complaint.

Key Indicating Features

Heavy, prolonged periods of pale watery blood

Heavy menses with labor-like pains in lower abdomen and lower back

Weakness, headache, vertigo from heavy menses

Painful periods with shooting pain in uterus and scanty pale bleeding

Milky watery vaginal discharges with dragging pain in lower back, pelvis and thighs

3. Ears (Noises, Pain)

It is useful in managing ringing or humming type sounds emanating from the ears. Leaning the head on the table brings relief. In women, there may be aggravation of these sounds from the ears during menses. A person becomes oversensitive to external noise. Lastly, it is indicated for stitching type of pain in the ear, especially in the morning.

Key Indicating Features

Ringing/ humming noise felt in ears, better by leaning head on table

Ringing noises in ears before menses

4. Head (Headache)

Ferrum Metallicum works well when headache is pulsating and hammering in nature. It is congestive (rush of blood to the head) with heat in the head and face. One feels heaviness in the head as if wearing an iron band . The person feels better by pressing the head with hands. The headache may appear periodically every two or four weeks and lasts for around 2 to 3 days. This medicine gives excellent results in cases of headache occurring after menses. It is also suitable for headache due to anemia.

Key Indicating Features

Congestive, pulsating, hammering headache with rush of blood to head, with heat in head and face

Headache after menses

Headache in cases of anemia

5. Nose (Bleeding, Cold)

Ferrum Metallicum manages nose bleeding (epistaxis) quite well. Main indication for its use is nose bleeding in anemic people. Bleeding is especially noted in the morning and when stooping. Other than this, it can be given in cases of cold when there is greenish pus-like discharge from the nose that may be blood stained. Fluid discharge may occur from posterior nares accompanied by headache.

Key Indicating Features

Nose bleeding in anemic people

Nose bleeding in morning and on stooping

Cold with greenish pus-like discharge from nose

6. Gastric Concerns (Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Piles)

It proves highly effective to manage certain gastric issues. Prominently it is indicated to manage nausea and vomiting after eating or after exertion. It also helps cases in which vomiting occurs specifically after eating eggs. Ferrum Metallicum can also be administered for relief in belching which may be bitter or taste like the food consumed. Distension and burning in stomach can also be felt. Another indication for recommending this medicine is diarrhea followed by weakness. It is useful when there is sudden, watery, gushing stool attended with gas. Undigested food particles may be present in stool. Besides, its use is recommended to manage constipation which appears particularly from use of iron pills. Ferrum can be given in piles (enlarged, swollen, inflamed veins in anus or lower rectum) cases also. Here, it is used when attended with anal itching, bleeding and tearing type of pain.

Key Indicating Features

Nausea and vomiting after eating or after exertion

Vomiting after eating eggs

Diarrhea with sudden, watery, gushing stool attended with much gas followed by weakness

Constipation from use of iron pills

Piles cases with anal itching, bleeding and tearing type of pain

7. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Asthma)

One may find Ferrum beneficial for managing cough. Dry, tickling cough which gets worse from movement and improves by lying down is a major indication to use this medicine. Relief also sets in from eating. Cough may be attended with spitting of blood or vomiting. In some cases, pain in the back of the head may be felt. It is an important medicine for managing cough from tobacco smoke. Another use of this medicine is noteworthy in treating asthma cases. It works well when asthma attacks appear after 12 noon. An indication for use of Ferrum is relief by walking around slowly and talking. It can also be used if there is difficulty in breathing.

Key Indicating Features

Dry, tickling cough which gets worse from movement

Cough with spitting of blood or vomiting

Cough from tobacco smoke

Asthma attacks after 12 noon

Breathing difficulty, better from talking and from slow walking

8. Limbs (Shoulder Pain, Cramps)

Ferrum Met has a special affinity to manage shoulder pain. Persons needing it have tearing type of pain in the shoulder, especially left-sided shoulder. It may extend down the upper arm. Pain gets worse from raising the arm and at night. This remedy is also well indicated to manage deltoid pain with soreness. Pain is darting or dull tearing type. Another main indication is trembling of hands while writing. It can also manage cramps in the calves (muscle in back of leg) while at rest during the night.

Key Indicating Features

Left-sided shoulder pain

Pain in shoulder worse from raising arm and at night

Trembling of hands while writing

9. Heart Complaints (Fatty Degeneration Of Heart, Hypertrophy Of Heart, Palpitations)

Ferrum Metallicum is well indicated for management of fatty degeneration of heart and hypertrophy of heart (thickening of heart muscles). It is useful to manage palpitations that get worse from the least motion. It is attended with fear.

Key Indicating Features

Fatty degeneration of heart

Hypertrophy of heart

Palpitations worse from least motion

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from exertion, during menses, at night, while sitting, eating, drinking, anger and while sweating

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from moving about slowly, in summer and after rising

Dosage

Use of this medicine is recommended in both – low potency (from second to 30C) and high potencies ( like 200 C, 1M). The dose and repetition varies from case to case.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Arsenic Album, Arnica, Belladonna, China, Ipecac, Pulsatilla, Sulphur and Veratrum Album

It antidotes: Arsenic Album and Hepar Sulph

Followed well by: Aconite, Arnica, China, Conium, Lycopodium, Merc Sol, Phosphorus and Pulsatilla

Homeopathic Treatment for Swollen Fingers And Its Causes

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 2 Comments

The swelling of fingers is a medical condition many of us tend to take lightly. It may simply be due to a high salt diet, wrong posture while sleeping, overuse of hands or may be a symptom of a disease.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy offers very effective management for cases of swollen fingers. Homeopathic medicines are safe and natural and help in managing swelling of fingers by working on the root cause behind it. Homeopathic medicines are selected for managing swollen fingers based on the cause and individual symptoms varying from person to person. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine after consulting a homeopathic doctor. Homeopathic medicines are recommended only when swelling is mild to moderate and there is no serious cause behind it. In case of intense swelling, numbness in fingers, fever attending swelling, deformed fingers, inability to straighten the affected finger, a broken finger or a serious cause like pre-eclampsia (condition in pregnancy characterized by high BP), it is advised to take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For Treating Swollen Fingers

1. Rhus Tox – Top grade medicine

It is a leading homeopathic medicine for managing swelling in fingers, along with pain which is tearing type. Also, fingers may become stiff, crawling sensation in fingertips may attend. It is one of the best medicine for arthritis and tendinitis cases.

2. Bryonia – For Swelling, Heat, Pain In Fingers

It is prepared from the root of the plant Bryonia Alba having common name ‘white bryony’ and ‘wild hops’. This plant belongs to family Cucurbitaceae. It is well indicated when there is swelling, heat and pain in fingers. The fingers are puffy, sore (sensitive to touch) and painful especially on exertion. Warmth may help relieve pain.

3. Apis Mellifica – For Red, Swollen, Inflamed Fingers

It is the next prominent medicine for cases in which fingers are red, swollen and inflamed. Pain attends it which can be stinging, tensive or tearing in nature. Fingers are very tense and are burning hot. In some cases, there is sensation of numbness in fingers. It is a general medicine in homeopathy for managing bursitis, arthritis and paronychia cases.

4. Actaea Spicata – For Swelling That Worsens from the Slightest Fatigue

It is a natural medicine prepared from the root of the plant Baneberry. It belongs to family Ranunculaceae. It gives extremely good results in relieving joint inflammation when small joints become painful and swollen. Swelling in joints occurs from the slightest exertion.

5. Lithium Carb – For Swollen And Tender Finger Joints

It is beneficial for cases having swelling and tenderness of finger joints. In cases needing it, relief occurs by dipping hands in hot water. Itching on the sides of hands in some cases may be present.

6. Caulophyllum – For Finger Joint Swelling And Stiffness

This medicine is prepared from root of plant Caulophyllum Thalictroides commonly known as ‘blue cohosh’ and ‘squaw root’. It belongs to family Berberidaceae. It is an effective medicine when there is pain, swelling and stiffness in the finger joints. The pain can be drawing or cutting type. Cutting pain in the joints may be felt while making a fist. Pain in fingers also cause irritation and restlessness at night.

7. Silicea – For Cases Of Swelling In Felon

Felon is the subcutaneous abscess of the fingertip pulp.

This medicine works well in cases of finger swelling from felon (subcutaneous abscess of the fingertip pulp). In cases needing it, there is marked swelling and throbbing pain in the finger. Swelling may extend to the wrist. Itching may be felt, the finger is red too with collection of pus beneath skin. The affected area is sensitive to touch. Weakness may be present with the above symptoms.

8. Lycopodium – For Swelling And Nodes On Fingers Joints

It is prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum commonly known as ‘club moss’. This plant belongs to family Lycopodiaceae. It is a useful medicine for persons who have swollen finger joints and the formation of nodes. The finger joints are red along with pain. The pain is mostly tearing in nature. This medicine is well-indicated for treating gout as well.

Different Causes Behind Swollen Fingers

1. First reason is arthritis (joint inflammation) that leads to swelling, pain and stiffness in the joints. Among various types of arthritis, the most common ones are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects small joints and causes symptoms like pain, swelling, stiffness, warmth in joints, and deformity in the long run. Osteoarthritis is a joint disorder that occurs from wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones. Commonly affected joints are of knees, hands, hips and spine. Gout is a form of arthritis that arises from increased uric acid levels in the blood. It results in redness, swelling and tenderness in the joints.

2. It may arise from an injury in the hand/fingers. It results in inflammation with signs and symptoms including swelling, pain, tenderness and redness in the hands, fingers or wrist. Other than this, break in the skin, bruising may be there with numbness or tingling sensation.

3. One of the most common reasons behind swollen fingers is fluid retention. Swelling occurs from the collection of excessive fluid in the tissues of fingers. There may be puffiness and bloating in the body. The most common reason for fluid retention is a high-salt diet. Lymphedema which occurs from blockage in the lymphatic system also leads to build-up of fluid in the hands, fingers, feet and toes. Along with this, the skin may get discolored and water-filled eruptions (blisters) may appear.

In persons suffering from Angioedema, fluid retention occurs under the skin mostly from an allergic reaction. Hives (a skin condition in which itchy, raised wheals appear on skin) may appear which cause itching. In angioedema, swelling usually occurs on the face but may also appear in fingers in some cases.

4. Tendonitis (inflamed tendons that are the tough bands that connect muscle to the bone) may also cause swelling in fingers which become tender and painful. Common tendonitis in the fingers includes trigger finger and De Quervain’s tendonitis.

Trigger finger

Trigger finger refers to a condition in which there occurs sticking of one of the fingers in a bent position and the finger bends or straighten with a snap. De Quervain’s tendinitis is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. This mostly occurs from repetitive stress on these tendons from certain activities affecting these tendons, like writing.

De Quervain’s tendinitis

5. Another cause could be bursitis (inflammation of the bursa which are the fluid-filled sacs surrounding the joints). Though it mostly affects the larger joints, it may also occur in finger joints resulting in pain and redness in fingers.

6. It may occur from heat and exercise. During exercise, more blood goes to heart, lungs and muscles and less of it flows to the hands. It may cause swelling in fingers. In case the body heats up, blood vessels in the skin swell for heat expulsion from the surface to cool down the body. It may also occur from sleeping in a particular position that leads to swelling in the hands and fingers.

7. An infection in the finger is yet another cause for it. Its signs and symptoms include swelling in fingers, a wound on fingers, pain and tenderness in the fingers and fever. Some of the infections include paronychia and felon. Paronychia is an infection around the nails where nail and skin meet and is caused by bacteria or fungus. Felon is pus-filled infection in the fingertip.

8. Next reason is use of certain medicines, for example steroids, pain killers like aspirin, naproxen, ibuprofen, medicines used for treating diabetes and high blood pressure.

9. Hormonal changes occurring during menstruation and pregnancy may also result in swelling and bloating. Swelling in the hands and fingers occurs commonly as a part of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and is also common during pregnancy.

10. Another cause is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) which occurs from compression of the median nerve. In this case, sometimes fingers become swollen along with its major symptoms that include numbness, pain, tingling, burning and weakness in the thumb, index, middle finger and ring finger.

11. It may also occur in case of pre-eclampsia. It is a condition that may occur in late pregnancy with symptoms like headache, swelling on the face, weight gain, pain in abdomen, and vision changes. This condition requires urgent medical treatment.

12. Next cause is Raynaud’s disease. It is a rare condition affecting blood vessels in fingers and toes in which the vessels become narrow when exposed to cold and when a person is under stress.

13. Other causes are sickle cell disease (a rare genetic condition in which red blood cells become sickle-shaped which results in improper blood circulation in the body) and scleroderma (an autoimmune condition in which changes occur in the skin, in the connective tissues of the body and in other organs as well).

14. Lastly, it may occur in case of diabetes and tuberculosis.

Chininum Sulphuricum: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 3 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Chininum Sulphuricum is derived from sulphate of quinine also called quinine sulphate. For preparing this medicine, sulphate of quinine has to undergo potentization (with this process, medicinal properties of crude substance are aroused). As a result, we get an important homeopathic medicine Chininum Sulphuricum. It is a top-listed medicine to manage various ear-related complaints especially tinnitus and Meniere’s disease.

The ‘Chininum Sulphuricum’ Constitution

It is recommended for people who are weak and get nervous easily. It also suits those who have suffered weight loss and feel weakness due to loss of blood.

Drug Action

This medicine acts well on multiple body organs among which ears stand out to be the most prominent. It is undoubtedly the best medicine for managing noises in the ear (tinnitus) and Meniere’s disease. Its action is marked on joints and face. Its tendency to treat fever is also noteworthy. Besides, it acts well on the neck, back, gastric system and urinary organs.

Clinical Indications

Ear disorders, tinnitus, Meniere’s disease, impaired hearing, fever, malaria, joint pains, neuralgia

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Ear Complaints (Tinnitus, Meniere’s Disease)

Chininum Sulphuricum is a highly recommended medicine for treating tinnitus. Tinnitus refers to hearing of noises mostly ringing type in the absence of an external source. This medicine offers the best help when a person hears ringing, roaring, buzzing or tinkling noises in the ears. Ringing or buzzing is felt more on the left side. Sometime, hearing loss may be reported. A person may have vertigo episodes along with tinnitus. Vertigo gets worse from bending down. Headache may accompany vertigo in some cases. It is one of the best homeopathic medicines for treating Meniere’s disease. It is an inner ear disorder with symptoms including tinnitus, vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss and sensation of fullness in ears. This medicine is also well-indicated for managing cases of hearing difficulty after a head injury.

Key Indicating Features

Tinnitus with ringing, roaring, buzzing or tinkling noises in ears

Vertigo with tinnitus

Meniere’s disease

Difficulty in hearing after a head injury

2. Joint Problems (Pain, Swelling, Stiffness)

Chininum Sulphuricum is really helpful when there is aching, heaviness, stiffness and soreness (sensitive to touch) in all the joints. The knee joint is especially painful and swollen. The wrist joint on the right side is also swollen along with pain. The left ankle joint is painful. The shoulder joint is inflamed along with cracking sounds on movement. Tearing and shooting pain is felt in the hands.

Key Indicating Features

Aching, heaviness and stiffness in all the joints

Pain and swelling in the knee joint and right wrist

3. Fever (Malaria Fever)

This medicine is prominently indicated for managing cases of malaria fever. In cases needing it, all three stages –chill, fever and sweat are well marked. Chill is mainly felt in the shoulders, nape of neck and down the spine. It mainly occurs around 3:00 pm. There is intense thirst for water. Chill is followed by heat and headache. During heat stage, thirst is very less. After heat, there is excessive sweating and weakness. Sweating is marked on the neck and the back especially during sleep. There is shivering that is felt even in a warm room. With fever, other notable symptoms that appear are trembling of limbs, fullness sensation in head, sensitivity of spine and ringing noises in ears.

Key Indicating Features

Malaria when all three stages of chill, fever and sweat are well marked

Chill is mainly felt in shoulders, nape of neck and down the spine

Chill around 3:00 pm with shivering even in a warm room

Fever with symptoms including trembling of limbs, fullness sensation in head, sensitivity of spine and ringing noises in ears

Marked sweating on the neck and back especially during sleep

4. Face (Nerve Pain)

This medicine offers help in cases of neuralgic (nerve) pain on the face. The characteristic symptom of using Chininum Sulphuricum is nerve pain occurring at regular time periods which gets better by applying pressure. There is morning periodicity with pain occurring every morning that lasts until around 12 pm. The pain begins under the eyes and after that spreads into and around the eyes. The type of pain in most cases needing this remedy is lancinating type. It is attended with marked lachrymation (watering from eyes). Along with this, the face is red, hot and flushed.

Key Indicating Features

Nerve pain in face occurring at regular time period which gets better from pressure

Facial nerve pain beginning every morning lasting until around 12 pm

5. Gastric Issues (Heartburn, Nausea, Liver Pain And Spleen Pain)

Chininum Sulphuricum is mainly indicated for managing heartburn (burning sensation in chest behind breastbone), nausea, bloating, pain in liver/spleen pain and constipation. In case of heartburn, it is used when it is attended with nausea, belching and vomiting of bile. Burning can be felt in stomach with constricted feeling. Eating even a little food causes pressure in the stomach. Chininum Sulphuricum is useful for nausea cases attended with acid rising and vomiting. It can be given in case of bloating of abdomen as well with rumbling and passage of gas. It proves effective in managing liver pain and spleen pain too. Here it is mainly prescribed when the pain gets worse from coughing, taking deep breath or while bending. The pain in spleen is stitching type, which gets better by applying pressure. Another characteristic for its use is splenomegaly which is the enlargement of spleen that occurs after malaria fever. For constipation, it is used when the stool is hard and insufficient followed by weakness.

Key Indicating Features

Heartburn with nausea, bitter belching and vomiting of bile

Nausea accompanied with acid rising and vomiting

Liver and spleen pain worse from coughing, deep breath and bending

Enlargement of spleen after malaria

6. Urinary Problems (Nephritis, Albuminuria)

This medicine is well indicated for cases in which there is passage of urea, albumin, chlorides, phosphoric acid and uric acid in urine. Burning in urethra occurs while urinating; urine flow is scanty. The urine may be frothy. Red or yellow white sediments may deposit in urine. Its use is also considered in cases of hematuria (blood in urine). It is a great medicine for managing cases of nephritis (kidney inflammation).

Key Indicating Features

Passage of urea, albumin, chlorides, phosphoric acid and uric acid in urine

Hematuria (blood in urine)

7. Neck And Back (Pain)

Chininum Sulph has wonderful action on neck and back. It is of great value to manage neck pain. There is neck pain along with sensation of swelling and contraction in the neck. The last cervical vertebra is sensitive to touch. Cervical vertebra are seven bones present in the neck immediately below the skull. It works well in cases where the upper three dorsal vertebra are sensitive and painful to touch. Dorsal vertebra are twelve bones stacked one above the other starting from the base of the neck downwards. Lastly, it is used for back pain occurring periodically extending to the neck and head.

Key Indicating Features

Neck pain with sensation of swelling and contraction in the neck

Last cervical vertebra sensitive to touch

Upper three dorsal vertebra sensitive and painful to touch

Back pain occurring periodically and extending to neck and head

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from cold and touch

Relieving factors: Complaints get better by bending forward and from pressure

Dosage

This medicine can be used in 30C or a higher potency. Low potencies can be repeated frequently while high potencies should not be repeated often.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Arnica, Arsenic Album, Carbo Veg, Lachesis, Pulsatilla and Natrum Mur

It can be compared with remedies like China, Arsenic Album, Apis Mellifica, Bryonia, Eupatorium perfoliatum and Pambotano

Anacardium Orientale : Homeopathic medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 2 Comments

This homeopathic medicine is derived from the plant ‘marking nut’ or ‘Malacca bean’. It belongs to family Anacardiaceae. For preparing homeopathic medicine Anacardium Orientale, the layer between the shell and kernel of the heart-shaped nut of this plant undergoes potentization (a process to prepare homeopathic medicines by arousing medicinal properties of a crude substance). In homeopathy, Anacardium is extensively used for treating cases of schizophrenia, weak memory and forgetfulness.

The ‘Anacardium Orientale’ Constitution

It is prominently recommended to people who have delusions and hallucinations. This medicine also suits persons suffering from mental and physical exhaustion, and depression. It also suits elderly people mainly those having memory issues.

Drug Action

It acts best on medical problems related with the mind, especially schizophrenia. Apart from the head, it works on the head, gastric system, skin, muscles, nerves and limbs.

Clinical Indications

Schizophrenia, delusions, hallucinations, weak memory, fears, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, stomach pain, nausea, headache, skin diseases, warts, eczema, lichen planus, writer’s cramp

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Mind Complaints (Schizophrenia, Delusions, Hallucinations, Weak Memory, Fears, Alzheimer’s Disease)

This medicine has broad action on problems related to the mind. The complaint for which it is the most frequently used and effective is schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia is a mental health condition affecting thinking, emotions, behaviour and decision-making ability of a person. In this condition, various kind of hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that do not exist in reality) or delusions (fixed, false beliefs not based on reality) occur. The main symptom that guides use of this medicine for schizophrenia is auditory hallucinations. A person hears voices of persons faraway, dead people or of spirits. A specific voice may be heard that says that the sufferer is going to die. There are some specific delusions that guide its use. It firstly includes delusion that on one shoulder an angel is sitting and on another a demon is sitting telling good and bad things respectively. A person feels as if he has two wills among which one orders him to do something what other refuses to do. Another delusion is that of being under superhuman control. Anacardium can be given for delusions as if everything is a dream and a feeling that the mind and body are separate. Those needing it are very suspicious. They may also indulge in senseless talk. They can show strange behaviour. They may laugh at serious matters and become serious when there is something to laugh about.

Other than schizophrenia, it is one of the best homeopathic medicines to deal with cases of memory weakness and forgetfulness. Here a person forgets names of those around him, forgets what has been seen. Absent-mindedness is also there. It is well-indicated for management of cases of senile dementia (memory loss in elderly people). Another use of this medicine is management of Alzheimer’s disease. It is a brain disorder in which the death of brain cells results in memory loss and gradually destroys thinking, behaviour and social skills to an extent to interfere with daily life.

Another sphere where it shows excellent results is different kind of phobias (fears). Among these, it is a top most medicine to deal with fear of examinations in students. Also it can help cases of fear that some misfortune is about to happen, fear of future and fear of being poisoned. A particular fear of paralysis also indicates its use.

Other than the above, persons having brain fatigue (tiredness) may find this medicine quite useful. For example, students who feel nervous after over-study and exhaustion benefit greatly from its use. Those needing it, do not wish to work, they just want to lie down or sit.

Lastly, it is indicated for cases of depression. People needing it are anxious and worried that they may suffer from a serious disease. They have a feeling of being forsaken and feel helpless. They get offended easily and become angry about little things and get violent. They may use bad language too. Persons having a history of having suffered humiliation, abuse either physical or verbal or sexual abuse can find this medicine very effective.

Key Indicating Features

Schizophrenia with auditory hallucinations when person hears voices of persons faraway, dead people or of spirits

Delusion that on one shoulder an angel is sitting telling good things and on another a demon is sitting telling bad things

Delusion of having two wills among which one orders him to do something while the other refuses

Delusion of being under superhuman control

Memory weakness and forgetfulness, Alzheimer’s disease

Fear of examinations in student

Brain fatigue (tiredness), nervous exhaustion after over study

2. Gastric Issues (Stomach Pain, Nausea, Difficulty in passing Stool)

Anacardium is capable of resolving gastric issues wonderfully. It is well-indicated for stomach pain which gets better from eating. Those needing it have weak digestion. They feel fullness and distension in the abdomen. It can alleviate pain around navel area with sensation of a dull plug being pressed in the intestine. Rumbling in abdomen in the navel area is present. It helps in managing nausea especially in the morning. There is an empty feeling in the stomach. Vomiting and belching accompanies nausea. It also acts well on rectum. There is difficulty in passing stool even when it is soft. There is ineffectual desire to pass stool. Rectum feels powerless. A plug sensation in rectum is felt. It can also be given for relieving anal itching. Bleeding with stool may occur in some cases needing it.

Key Indicating Features

Stomach pain that gets better from eating

Pain around navel region with sensation of a dull plug being pressed in the intestines

Difficulty in passing stool even when soft

A plug sensation in rectum

3. Head (Headache)

With its action on head, it gives substantial relief in headache. There is a pressing sensation as from a plug in head. Foremost indication for its use is headache worse from mental exertion. There is relief in headache by eating. It gets better by taking some sleep. There is heat in head accompanied by icy coldness of hands and feet. Another notable indication is headache that occurs from strong smell.

Key Indicating Features

Headache from mental exertion

Headache better by eating

Headache better from falling asleep

Headache from strong smells

4. Skin Complaints (Eczema, Blisters, Warts)

It is mainly recommended for treating eczema, particularly when attended with mental irritability. There is violent itching and scratching worsens it. It can deal with skin blisters (fluid-filled bumps on skin) effectively, when they discharge a yellow transparent fluid. It is a well-known medicine to treat warts (rough, hard bumps on skin causes by human papilloma virus). It is specifically indicated for warts on palms of hands. Lastly, its use is considered in cases of lichen planus (an autoimmune inflammatory skin condition characterized by small flat topped purple-colored bumps on skin).

Key Indicating Features

Eczema with mental irritability

Blisters that discharge yellow transparent fluid

Warts on palms of hands

5. Limbs (Cramps, Writer’s Cramps)

Anacardium also acts on limbs to deal with certain issues. Firstly it is an important medicine for cramps in calf muscles. Persons needing it feel pain in the calf muscles when rising up from a seat and also from walking. They may have cramps in toes as well that extend to the heel and calf muscles. Secondly, it is also indicated for writer’s cramp (disorder in which there occurs muscle spasm or contraction in hands when writing) cases. Thirdly, it is known to be helpful in relieving stiffness of legs with a feeling that they are bandaged. There may be burning sensation in the soles of feet and legs where it is required.

Key Indicating Features

Cramps in calf muscles when rising from a seat and also from walking

Writer’s cramp

Stiff legs with sensation as if they are bandaged

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from mental exertion, anger, fright, from motion, in open air and from talking

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from eating, rubbing, heat and in the sun

Dosage

Its use is recommended from 6C to 200 C potency. The potency selection varies from case to case. As a general rule it can be repeated frequently in low potency but in high potency should not be taken frequently.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Clematis, Croton Tiglium, Coffea Cruda, Juglans Cinerea, Ranunculus Bulbosus and Rhus Tox

Followed well by: Lycopodium, Pulsatilla and Platina

Natural Homeopathic Remedies for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that results from reduced bone density. Bones become weak, brittle and are prone to fracture easily. Usually, this condition causes no pain or other symptoms and a person comes to know of it when a fracture occurs. Bones commonly affected in osteoporosis are hip bone, ribs, bones in the spine and wrist.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines are natural remedies for treating weak bones and the complications resulting from it. Natural homeopathic remedies for osteoporosis are very helpful in absorbing calcium from the bones and also in treating fractured bones. Homeopathic medicines also offer help in managing bone pain. It is to be noted that these medicines are not a substitute for treatment given in conventional mode for osteoporosis. Homeopathic medicines render supportive help along with conventional treatment to enhance bone strength, reduce pain related to brittle bones and contribute to bone repair in case of a fracture.

Homeopathic Medicines For Osteoporosis

1. Calcarea Phos – An Excellent Medicine For Thin, Brittle Bones

It is a leading homeopathic medicine for treating osteoporosis. It is mainly given to those patients of osteoporosis who have weak, soft, brittle bones which become crooked. Here it improves bone strength. It is well indicated when a person experiences pain in the hip bone. The pain can be shooting, drawing, stitching or tearing in nature. Calcarea Phos is also beneficial for those experiencing pain in the back due to weak bones. The pain may get worse from the least movement. There may be curvature of spine to the left in cases needing it. At times the lower back may be bent forward. Lastly, it also promotes healing of fractured bones.

2. Symphytum Officinale – To Treat Fractures in Osteoporosis

Symphytum Officinale is the best natural remedy for treating fractures in osteoporosis. It is commonly known as ‘knit bone’ and as the name represents it helps in knitting/uniting the fractured bone. This remedy helps in joining fractured bones very efficiently by promoting the activity of fibroblast cells. Fractures, where patients complain of pricking type of pain at the fractured site, can be greatly relieved by taking this natural medicine. It can also help in reducing irritability at the site of fracture. This medicine can be taken once the fractured bone is set in cast.

3. Silicea – When Bones Are Very Tender To Touch

Spinal Curvature

This medicine is suggested for cases in which the bones are sensitive and tender to touch. It can be especially considered for spinal curvatures mainly to the right side. It is accompanied with pain on touch and movement. In some cases, a burning sensation can be felt in the back. It gets worse in open air. Silicea can be taken when a person has pain in lower back on stooping and on rising from a seat. Silicea is also very helpful where pus or fistula formation has occurred at the site of fracture. Lastly, silicea is of considerable help in the efficient union of broken bone and also helps in removing bone splinters.

4. Calcarea Carb – For Weak Bones Of Spine And Long Bones That Become Curved

Calcarea Carb is yet another natural medicine having wide action on bones. It is found to be effective in improving bone health and strengthening bones that are soft and brittle. This medicine can be used when the bones mainly of spine and bones which are long begin to become curved due to reduced bone mass. Calcarea Carb is also useful to reduce pain in bones. The pain can be boring, pulsating or stinging type.

5. Merc Sol – To Manage Bone Pain At Night

Merc Sol is suitable medicine to manage bone pains that are worse at night. There is pain in the bones with a feeling as if these are broken. The pain intensifies with touch.

6. Phosphorus – For Treating Curvature Of Spine In Osteoporosis

Phosphorus can give best results for people suffering from curvature of spine along with burning sensation in the spine. This natural remedy is also useful for treating pain and weakness of spine. The patient feels intense pain in the spine as if the spine is broken.

7. Hypericum – For Back Pain From Nerve Pinching From Damaged Vertebra

Hypericum is another useful natural medicine that can be confidently used for excessive pain in the back due to crushing of nerves in between damaged vertebral bones. The excessive pain and sensitivity in the back after fracturing of vertebral bones that gets worse by the slightest motion of the neck or arms can be efficiently controlled by Hypericum.

6. Ruta – To Assist In Repair Of Tendon, Ligaments Along With Fractured Bone

Ruta is yet another wonderful natural remedy employed in the treatment of fractures in osteoporosis. Whenever a bone gets fractured, the surrounding tendons and ligaments of bones also get damaged. It is in this sphere medicine Ruta shows its wonderful effect. This natural medicine helps in healing torn tendons and ligaments. It also helps in repairing the damaged bone. This remedy helps in decreasing pain, soreness, and stiffness around the fractured area mainly wrist fracture.

Causes And Risk Factors

Our bones are constantly undergoing remodeling which means the old bone is being removed by osteoclast cells and new bone is getting formed in its place by activity of osteoblast cells. When due to any reason the amount of old bone removed exceeds the amount of new bone formed the bones become weak, brittle. This may happen from many reasons as follows:

1. Age: The risk of osteoporosis increases with age for everyone. People above mid- 30s are at risk of osteoporosis and above 50 yrs age are at the highest risk of fracture due to osteoporosis. In young persons, new bone is produced more quickly in comparison to the old damaged bone that is breaking. As age advances, around age of mid 30s, what happens is that more bone is being lost than is being formed. So age plays a major role in osteoporosis.

2. Being a female: Females are more at risk of developing osteoporosis as compared to males. Women of menopausal age (45 yrs to 55 yrs) are more at risk due to increased loss of bone mass under the influence of changed hormones (lowered estrogen level).

3.Family history: Persons having someone in the family who have osteoporosis are at high risk to develop the same.

4. Sedentary lifestyle: Inactive lifestyle with prolonged sitting hours constantly with little or no physical activity

5. Low body weight and thin people who have small body frame

6. Low calcium and low vitamin D levels (vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium)

7. Low levels of sex hormones: Decrease in hormone estrogen in women as occurring during menopause stands as major risk factor. Lowered testosterone levels also speed up bone loss.

8. Overactive thyroid gland (means hyperthyroidism) and overactive parathyroid gland are also linked with it

9. Certain medicines like prolonged steroid use, anti-seizure medicines, blood thinners are associated with it

10. Use of alcohol or tobacco in excess also contributes to osteoporosis

11. Having certain medical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), cancer, kidney/liver disease

What Are Its Signs And Symptoms?

Osteoporosis usually causes no symptoms in the initial phase. With the progression of the condition when bones get intensely weak, some signs and symptoms may become evident. These are as follows:

Pain in back or neck

Loss of height

Posture changes (stooping)

Easy fracture of bones (mainly in hip and spine), fracture may occur from a fall or even from a very light pressure when walking, standing and from strong coughing in some cases

Sanguinaria Canadensis: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 5 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Sanguinaria Canadensis is derived from the plant ‘blood root’ and ‘puccoon’. This plant belongs to family Papaveraceae. The fresh roots of this plant are potentized as per a homeopathic formula that extracts and intensifies its medicinal properties. After going through this process called potentization, it becomes a highly valuable homeopathic medicine Sanguinaria Canadensis. It is a leading homeopathic medicine for managing headache, particularly on the right side.

The ‘Sanguinaria Canadensis’ Constitution

It is an effective medicine for persons having a tendency to suffer from right-side headache. Secondly, it is also recommended for persons who suffer from joint pains, especially shoulder joints. Besides, it is recommended for those having respiratory issues.

Drug Action

The most important action of this medicine is noted on the head to treat headache and migraine. It acts magnificently on joints and mucus membrane of the respiratory tract. The other parts of the body where it acts are face and nose. In general, the action of this remedy is on the right side of the body.

Clinical Indications

Headaches, migraine, asthma, arthritis, cold, cough, nerve pain (neuralgia), pneumonia, nasal polyps

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Head (Headache)

Sanguinaria Canadensis is recommended mostly to treat headache. It is specifically indicated for managing right-sided headache. The most characteristic symptom for using it is pain starting from the back of the head (occiput) that ascends up and settles over the right eye. The eyes may become red and sore. Applying pressure on the eyes with hands brings relief. Pain in the head occurs periodically (at fixed regular intervals), the person feels as if the head would burst or the eyes would pop out. Pain is lancinating or throbbing in nature. Pain tends to increase and decrease with the rising and setting sun. Sleep helps to alleviate the pain. Headache is attended with nausea and vomiting and there is relief by vomiting. Some may find relief by walking in the open air. Another unique feature for recommending this medicine is headache gets better if copious urine (in large quantity) is passed. This medicine can be given for headache with pain in the right temple area which gets worse from movement and shaking. It is also a suitable medicine for managing headache that occurs during menopause.

Key Indicating Features

Pain starting in the back of the head (occiput), ascending up and settling over the right eye

Headache increases and decreases with rising and setting sun

Headache better from sleep

Headache better after copious urination

2. Limbs (Joint Pain, Panaritium And Ingrowing Toe Nails)

Its main action is seen on the joints mainly on the shoulder joint. It is the best medicine to treat right-sided shoulder pain. In most cases needing it, pain gets worse at night and from turning in bed. A person is unable to raise his/her arm. Sanguinaria Canadensis is a leading medicine for helping cases of deltoid muscle pain (overuse injuries and strains). It is used when deltoid pain gets worse from raising or turning the arm. The pain also increases by lifting up something. The pain is cutting type accompanied by stiffness. Other than the shoulder, its use can also be considered for managing left-sided hip joint pain and sharp pain in the right ankle. Besides, it is helpful for managing burning sensation in the palms and soles which is prominent at night. Another indication to use it is Panaritium (inflammation of tissue near fingernail). Lastly, this medicine can be used for cases of ingrowing toe nails when there is pus formation.

Key Indicating Features

Right-sided shoulder pain which gets worse at night

Deltoid muscle pain worse from raising or turning the arm and from lifting

3. Face (nerve pain)

Sanguinaria Canadensis proves to be effective in managing nerve pain (neuralgia) in the face. The important symptom guiding its use is pain starting in the upper jaw radiating to nose, eyes, ears, side of head and neck. There is shooting pain, with the angle of the jaw being tender. There is marked circumscribed redness and burning sensation on the cheeks. This medicine also proves beneficial for stitching type of pain in left side of the head.

Key Indicating Features

Nerve pain starting in the upper jaw, radiating to nose, eyes, ears, side of head and neck

Stitching pain on the left side face

4. Nasal Problems (Cold, Polyps, Ozaena)

It can handle well cases of cold, nasal polyps, smell disorders and ozaena (reduction in size or shrinkage of nasal mucus lining and the underneath bone due to long-term inflammation). It gives good results if a person suffers from cold accompanied by dull heavy pain at the root of the nose. A stinging sensation may be felt in the nose. There is watery nasal discharge and sneezing. The discharge cause soreness in nose and lips. Nasal blockade alternates with watery discharge. Copious watering from eyes that are sore (painful to touch) is another indication to use this medicine. There is irritation and soreness in the throat along with cough. It acts wonderfully to treat cases of nasal polyps. Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous, painless growths that develop on the lining of nasal passage or paranasal sinuses. Sanguinaria Canadensis is very effective in treating loss of smell as well as perverted (perceiving pleasant odor as a bad smell) sense of smell. A peculiar smell in the nose like that of a roasted onion may persist. For ozaena, it can be given when there is yellow offensive nasal discharge.

Key Indicating Features

Cold accompanied with dull heavy pain at root of nose

Watery nasal discharge causing soreness in nose and lips along with sneezing

Loss of smell as well as perverted sense of smell

Ozaena with yellow offensive nasal discharge

5. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Asthma, Pneumonia)

This medicine has an important action on the mucus membrane of respiratory tract which solves various respiratory concerns. It is useful for managing cough. Cough related to gastric issues is the most prominent symptom for its use. Cough gets better by burping. There is burning sensation in the chest along with cough. There may occur expectoration of rust-coloured, pus-like, offensive smelling sputum. Wheezing and whistling in chest can occur along with cough. Sanguinaria Canadensis can be administered to children suffering from dry, exhaustive cough, which gets worse at night and on lying down. In cases of asthma, this medicine is useful when there is difficult breathing which worsens from strong odors. The chest feels constricted. In cases of pneumonia, it is recommended when there is a problem in breathing along with rust-colored expectoration. Besides, there is circumscribed redness and burning heat on the cheeks.

Key Indicating Features

Cough related to gastric issues better by burping

Cough with rust-colored, pus-like expectoration; offensive-smelling sputum

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from movement, touch, raising arms, light, odors and during menopause

Relieving factors: Complaints get better in cool air, from passing gas, from sleep, and sour things

Dosage

Depending on the case, it can be used from low to high potencies. In general, it can be repeated often in low potencies. Frequent repetition is usually not advised when using high potency.

Relationship with Other Remedies

It can be compared with other remedies including Belladonna, Iris Versicolor, and Melilotus

It antidotes: Opium

Homeopathic Remedies for Bronchitis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 51 Comments

Prolonged coughing, difficulty in breathing, mucus expectoration, pain in the chest, all these symptoms may indicate the initial stages of a respiratory disorder Bronchitis. This respiratory disease is characterized by the inflammation of bronchial tubes. Air passes from the trachea to the lungs through the bronchial tubes. The acute inflammation of bronchial tubes (Acute Bronchitis) usually follows an episode of cold or influenza caused by viral agents. The cold and influenza affect the upper respiratory system, including nose, sinuses, and larynx. In cases of maltreated or neglected cold or influenza, the infection travels in a downward direction and leads to inflammation of bronchial tubes, producing varying symptoms.

Homeopathic Treatment

Natural medicines serve as a very reliable and safe treatment to get rid of Bronchitis. They are free from any side effects and there is absolutely no chance of suppression of symptoms in the homeopathic treatment of Bronchitis. Remedies for Bronchitis are natural medicines that help in the easy exit of the mucus from the bronchi. As the mucus is effortlessly thrown out with the help of properly selected medicines, the cough, chest pain and difficulty in breathing also begin to subside and almost finish consequently.

Homeopathic Remedies for Bronchitis

1. Bryonia – For Dry Cough

Bryonia is the best medicine for managing dry cough. Persons needing it have cough due to irritation in the throat. While coughing, pain is felt in the chest and head. The cough gets worse after eating or drinking. It also increases from movement and talking. Besides, sneezing and scratchy sensation is felt in the throat. Fever with chills can also accompany.

When and How to use Bryonia?

Bryonia should be considered in the early stages of Bronchitis when there is dry cough along with pain in the chest and head. This medicine is recommended in 30C potency. Bryonia 30C can be taken three to four times a day at a three-hour interval.

2. Spongia – For Dry Cough With Difficult Breathing

Spongia is another effective medicine for dry cough. This medicine can be used when dry cough is accompanied by difficult breathing. Cough is extremely dry, hard and continuous. Eating or drinking makes the cough better. Cough is attended with fatigue. One may feel pain and a heated sensation in the chest. At times, a feeling of fullness is felt in the chest.

When and How to use Spongia?

Use of Spongia should be considered when dry cough occurs along with difficulty in breathing in mild intensity. Though it can be used in both low and high potencies, it is best to start with low potencies like 30C. Spongia 30C can be taken two to three times a day as per intensity of the symptoms.

3. Antimonium Tart – For Bronchitis With Loose Rattling Cough

Antimonium Tart is natural remedy for Bronchitis with loose rattling cough. The bronchial tubes are overloaded with mucus and mucus is heard rattling in the chest on coughing. The mucus does not expel easily and if it does get coughed out, the quantity is meagre. Antimonium Tart is of great help in aiding the expectoration of the mucus present in bronchial tubes. Whistling in chest and a feeling of heaviness in the chest occurs along with the above symptoms.

When and How to use Antimonium Tart?

It is the first medicine to be prescribed when cough is loose and rattling sound is heard while breathing due to the excess mucus lodged in bronchial tubes. Whistling in the chest may occur. This medicine helps to relieve cough, aids expectoration and clears off the mucus from bronchial tubes. Antimonium tart can be taken once or twice a day in 30C potency.

4. Arsenic Album – For Cough, Breathing Difficulty And Wheezing In Chest

Arsenic Album is highly recommended for cases in which there occurs cough with difficulty in breathing and wheezing /whistling in the chest. In most cases needing it, the cough gets worse at night. The phlegm is frothy white or thick yellow, may be blood streaked in some cases. During cough, soreness is felt in the chest, which may also feel tight sometimes. Following an episode of cough, one feels very weak.

When and How to use Arsenic Album?

Arsenic Album can be used in cases presenting with cough, difficult breathing and wheezing in chest when the complaint is of mild intensity. It is usually given in 30C potency once or twice a day. Its higher potencies are also used in some cases for which homeopathic doctor’s advice is a must.

5. Ipecac – For Rattling Cough With Vomiting

Ipecac is another medicine for cough that is similar when Antimonium Tart is recommended. But Ipecac is considered when cough with rattling of mucus in bronchi is followed by vomiting. It is suggested when there is coughing with excessive mucus in bronchial tubes and constant coughing does not seem to expel the mucus from bronchial tubes. Ipecac helps in expelling the mucus out with the least effort. Slight blood can be noticed in the coughed out sputa. Shortness of breath and a constricted sensation in the chest may be present. Wheezing (breathing noisily), sneezing and cold may accompany the above symptoms.

When and How to use Ipecac?

Ipecac can be given in case of loose rattling cough with vomiting. It can also be used in cases of cough with excessive mucus in bronchial tubes but difficult expectoration. It can be used in varying potencies varying from 6C to 200C. Ipecac is generally used in 30C potency two to three times a day

6. Hepar Sulph – For Loose Cough With Yellow Sputum

It is a well indicated medicine for cases having loose cough with yellow sticky sputum. The expectorated phlegm is abundant. Cough gets worse from exposure to cold air or from drinking cold water. In some cases requiring it, blood stained mucus is expectorated. While coughing, burning in the throat and chest are felt. Sneezing may occur.

When and How to use Hepar Sulph?

This medicine is most helpful for cases of loose cough with yellow expectoration. It is mostly recommended in 30 C potency twice or thrice a day as per severity of the problem. Its higher potencies like 200C, 1M are also available but they should not be used without a doctor’s prescription.

7. Pulsatilla – For Cough With Thick Yellow Or Green Expectoration

Pulsatilla is an ideal herbal medicine for Bronchitis when cough is attended with thick yellow or green mucus expectoration. The sputa may have bitter, salty or a bad taste. Cough gets worse in the morning and also in a warm room, while it gets better in open air.

When and How to use Pulsatilla?

Pulsatilla is the best choice of medicine for cough with thick yellow or green phlegm expectoration. Pulsatilla 30C once or twice a day gives good results.

Note: Use of the above medicines is recommended only in mild to moderate cases of bronchitis as per symptoms. After matching the symptoms, one may take these medicines for about one week if the condition improves. To continue these for more than one week, or if there is no visible sign of improvement, consult a homeopathic doctor. In severe cases like high fever, extreme difficulty in breathing, chest pain or pneumonia, it is strictly advised not to self-medicate with any of the above medicines, take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment.

Causes Of Bronchitis

1. Acute Bronchitis: It commonly arises from viruses that cause common cold and flu (influenza). These viral infections are the cause behind 85-95 percent of all the acute bronchitis cases in adults.

Rarely, acute bronchitis can result from bacterial infections like chlamydia pneumoniae, mycoplasma pneumoniae, etc.

2. Chronic Bronchitis: The common reason for chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking in about 90% of the cases. Passive smoking also increases the risk. Prolonged exposure to polluted air, dust or chemical fumes may also be one of the reasons. Repeated bouts of acute bronchitis also may turn into chronic bronchitis. Those having asthma or allergic tendency are also predisposed to chronic bronchitis.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Bronchitis?

1. Cough is the main symptom. Initially, the cough can be dry. Afterward, the cough becomes productive which means loose cough with production of mucus. The mucus can be clear, white, yellow, green, grey in colour. At times, mucus is even blood-stained though very rarely. Cough may last from one week to three weeks.

2. Difficulty in breathing

3. Fever and chills

4. Wheezing or whistling sound from chest on breathing and chest congestion/discomfort /tightness

5. Weakness, fatigue

6. In acute bronchitis, symptoms like runny nose, blocked nose, sore throat, headache and body aches may be present.

Types of Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis (chest cold): It generally lasts for one week to ten days, but the cough may linger for two to three weeks in some cases.

Chronic bronchitis:Bronchitis is termed chronic, when cough along with mucus lasts for minimum three months in a year with recurrence at least in two consecutive years.

Risk factors

Though anyone can get infected by bronchitis, infants (babies less than one year of age), young kids (under 5yrs) and elderly people are at the highest risk. Other risk factors include low immunity, cigarette smoking, excessive exposure to dust, chemical fumes, air pollutants and acid reflux (where stomach acid back-flows in upward direction to throat and causes irritation predisposing a person to develop bronchitis)

Complications

In some cases, pneumonia (inflamed air sacs that get filled with fluid) may occur as a complication. It can be life threatening and required immediate medical attention.