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

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines for Insomnia

Insomnia (sleeplessness) is a common sleep disorder in which a person experiences difficulty falling asleep and then difficulty staying asleep. It can also cause a person to wake up early, and not be able to fall back asleep or maintain sleep. Tossing, turning in bed and restlessness are common signs of insomnia. Diagnosis of insomnia is made when a person faces difficulty sleeping for three nights in a week for a minimum of three months, and it is causing significant distress in everyday life. Not getting enough sleep can lead to waking up tired in the morning, feeling sleepy and week during the day, along with irritability and a low feeling, difficulty in concentration, and poor performance at job or school.

Homeopathy proves highly effective to treat cases of insomnia. These medicines are 100% natural and are very safe to use among people of all age groups. With the use of these medicines, the frequency and intensity of this complaint gradually decreases. These work at a psychosomatic level to treat the root cause of insomnia and help to promote sound sleep naturally. Conventional treatment for insomnia employs the use of sleeping pills to induce or maintain sleep. These can lead to many side effects and are habit-forming. Here homeopathy is a great choice to treat insomnia as homeopathic medicines are non-habit forming and treated without any chance of side effects.

Holistic Approach to Treat Insomnia
Homeopathy treats the problem internally, by understanding the cause of different symptoms instead of suppressing them. Often, insomnia is the result of an underlying problem, and homeopathy works cohesively to treat the psychological and physical symptoms that may be causing the disorder.

Homeopathy offers Individual Treatment
Homeopathy works by analyzing the possible individual causes of insomnia in a person. Every person is treated according to the particular symptoms. Insomnia can be of different kinds; while some people find it difficult to fall asleep, others may find it difficult to stay asleep. These distinctions are important, and homeopathy addresses these unique problems separately.

Natural Remedies
As an ancient 200-year-old medical science, these remedies are derived from nature to help restore the natural healing processes of the body. While conventional medicines affect the chemical or hormonal levels in the body, homeopathic medicines work in harmony with the body to naturally restore the sleep cycle.

Homeopathy remedies for insomnia do not cause any psychological or physical dependency. Once the problem has been resolved, one can gradually stop the medication, or take it intermittently (if required). Homeopathy also works especially well for chronic sleep issues and can help resolve the problem for good.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines for Insomnia

Some top-rated medicines for treating insomnia are Kali Phos, Coffea Cruda, Ignatia Amara, Pulsatilla Nigricans, Nux Vomica, Arsenic Album, Opium, and Passiflora Incarnata.

1. Kali Phos – For Insomnia due to Stress/Worries

Kali Phos is a very useful medicine for insomnia. Insomnia from stress and worries, sleeplessness (mainly during the latter part of the night), excessive yawning, a sad, gloomy disposition, extreme fatigue both mentally and physically and sudden waking from sleep in children due to night terrors are the common symptoms that indicate the need for a dosage of Kali Phos for insomnia.

When to use Kali Phos?

It is an excellent choice of medicine for treating insomnia arising from stress and worries.

How to use Kali Phos?

This medicine is mostly recommended in 6X potency. Kali Phos 6X can be taken twice or thrice daily.

2. Coffea Cruda – For Insomnia due to Constant Thoughts

Coffea Cruda is a beneficial medicine for insomnia arising from constant thoughts in the mind. During bedtime, many ideas crowd the mind. The person remains restless at night and experiences sleeplessness, tossing from side to side. Palpitations and nervousness may occur. This medicine is also helpful in children who are playful at night and are sleepless. Coffea Cruda is also well indicated for early waking from sleep (usually around 3:00 am) with difficulty in falling asleep again. Insomnia during the phase of convalescence (i.e., during recovery from some illness) is also treated with Coffea Cruda. This remedy also offers help in cases of disturbed sleep from excessive dreams.

When to use Coffea Cruda?

It is suitable for cases of insomnia due to constant thoughts running in the mind at bedtime.

How to use Coffea Cruda?

This medicine can be used in 30C potency twice or thrice a day in the beginning, with gradual reduction in dose when improvement seems to start.

3. Ignatia Amara – For Insomnia from Grief, Depression

Ignatia Amara is a medicine for insomnia arising from grief and depression. The person needing Ignatia Amara is depressed and full of cares and worries. He/she may get entirely absorbed in profound grief that leads to sleeplessness. Other attending features are a desire to be alone, tearfulness, and sadness with deep sighs. The person keeps thinking about the sad occurrences in the past. Excessive brooding, moaning, and indifferent behavior to everything may also be present.

When to use Ignatia Amara?

Its use is suggested for managing sleeplessness linked with grief or depression with marked sadness and weeping spells.

How to use Ignatia Amara?

Though this medicine may be used in different potencies, it is best to begin with 30C potency. Ignatia Amara 30C can be taken once or twice a day. Higher potencies like 200C and 1M can also be considered afterward but only under the supervision of homeopathic expert.

4. Pulsatilla Nigricans – For Insomnia during First Half of Night

Pulsatilla Nigricans is prepared from the plant called ‘windflower’ of the natural order Ranunculaceae.
Pulsatilla Nigricans is a medicine for insomnia that appears during the first half of the night. The person stays awake and restless during the first half of the night. A fixed thought keeps revolving in the mind and prevents sleeping. Extreme restlessness is felt along with sleeplessness. The person eventually falls asleep during the late hours (towards dawn). The person wakes up feeling tired and may experience excessive yawning and sleepiness during the daytime.

When to use Pulsatilla Nigricans?

It is highly recommended for managing insomnia when sleeplessness is present during the initial half of the night but in the latter half towards the morning, sleep comes when it’s time to get up.

How to use Pulsatilla Nigricans?

This medicine is best suited in 30C potency. Pulsatilla Nigricans can be repeated 2 times a day

5. Nux Vomica – For Insomnia during Latter Half of Night

Nux Vomica is a valuable medicine for insomnia when sleeplessness occurs during the second half of the night. A person requiring Nux Vomica has no trouble falling asleep but wakes up around 3:00 am – 4:00 am after which sleep becomes difficult. During the daytime, intense drowsiness, tiredness, and weakness appear. Nux Vomica also works in cases where sleep is not sound, and the person wakes up often from sleep. It also treats sleeplessness linked with an excessive intake of coffee or alcoholic stimulants or tobacco. Sleeplessness due to gastric troubles is also an indication for using homeopathic medicine Nux Vomica.

When to use Nux Vomica?

The most striking feature for using this medicine is sleeplessness after 3 or 4 am though sleep occurs easily in the initial hours of night.

How to use Nux Vomica?

It is mostly used in 30 C potency that can be administered 2-3 times a day. Once the symptoms improve, frequent repetition of doses is not required.

6. Arsenic Album – For Insomnia Linked with Anxiety

Arsenic Album is a useful medicine for insomnia linked with anxiety. There is anxiety about issues like health, the future, and the family’s well-being. The anxiety is mostly worse after midnight. Along with anxiety, extreme restlessness may be present. The person continually tosses and turns in the bed at night. The restlessness also prevails during daytime with continual movement from one place to another, with a feeling of weariness of the eyes.

When to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine is very beneficial for persons who suffer from insomnia along with anxiety issues and restlessness with marked anxiety about health and family’s well-being.

How to use Arsenic Album?

Though it can be used in both low and high potencies, initially 30C potency is mostly used that can be taken once or twice a day as per the intensity of the symptom.

7. Opium – For Insomnia where Person is Sleepy but Unable to Sleep

Opium is a medicine for insomnia where a person feels sleepy but is unable to sleep. He/she may remain awake for long, there is restless at night with constant tossing and turning in bed. The person may have acuteness of hearing, and small noises may disturb the person and cause sleeplessness.

When to use Opium?

Opium is well-indicated for managing insomnia where a person is very sleepy but is unable to fall asleep with restlessness and constant tossing in bed.

How to use Opium?

One may use this medicine in 30C potency once a day. Keep away from using its high potencies without consulting a homeopathic physician.

8. Passiflora Incarnata – Homeopathic Medicine for Insomnia in Elderly People

Passiflora Incarnata is a prominently indicated medicine for treating insomnia in older persons. This medicine is prepared from a plant named ‘passion flower’ belonging to the natural order Passifloraceae. The person needing Passiflora Incarnata remains wakeful and restless at night. Mental worries may cause insomnia.

When to use Passiflora Incarnata?

Its use is highly advised to manage insomnia in elderly people.

How to use Passiflora Incarnata?

It is mostly taken in mother tincture (Q) form once or twice a day.

The Causes and Triggers of Insomnia

Insomnia is usually the symptom of an underlying health condition or an erratic, unhealthy lifestyle. A person’s lifestyle habits have a direct impact on the sleep pattern and overall health. Unhealthy lifestyle practices usually trigger insomnia and making amendments usually helps resolve the problem fairly quickly.

Some common triggers related to lifestyle habits that can cause insomnia include:

Poor Sleep Habits

– People who work at home in the evenings often find it difficult to unwind and relax before bedtime. This can cause increased brain activity and stress, apart from affecting the working of the sleep hormones. The mind becomes preoccupied with the details of work when it is time to sleep.

– Afternoon naps can also disrupt night sleep by confusing the body’s internal clock. While some people feel refreshed after a quick afternoon nap, others may find it difficult to sleep at night if they have a nap in the afternoon.

Small, Constant Stress Triggers

While major stressful events may naturally induce insomnia, modern lifestyle has small but constant stress triggers that can become a chronic problem. In case of a perceived threat, the stress response in the body gets triggered and leads to a chain of physical reactions like shallow breathing and the release of chemicals like cortisol and adrenaline for energy. The triggering of this response to everyday stressors like relationship conflicts, traffic, being over-punctual, etc. leads to chronic stress, especially if it is not resolved through relaxation.

Blue Light from Screens

– Using laptops and mobile phones right before bedtime has been scientifically proven to cause sleep problems. The blue light emitted from these gadgets makes the brain more alert and disturbs the functioning of sleep hormones like melatonin.

Working in Irregular Shifts

– People who work in shifts with irregular hours often find it difficult to fall asleep at all. Periodically changing schedules, late night shifts and irregular sleeping hours disturb the body’s natural rhythm and can lead to insomnia.

Noise and Environmental Disturbances

– People living in the city or near places where there is noise pollution find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Loud noises from the television or other activities, bad odors in the air from garbage dumps or industrial plants in the vicinity can also disturb sleep.

Medications for Other Health Issues

– Certain medicines that are used to treat a variety of health issues can contribute to insomnia, for example antiarrhythmics for heart problems, beta-blockers for angina and high blood pressure, corticosteroids for asthma and inflammation, serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for anxiety and depression.

The Effect of Smoking on Sleep

– Smoking affects sleep quality in a variety of ways. The main ingredient in tobacco is nicotine, which is both a drug and a stimulant. Consuming too close to bedtime in high quantities, can affect sleep physiology.

Stimulating Effects of Caffeine

– Caffeine is a stimulant and temporarily increases alertness by increasing the production of adrenaline. This interferes with the production and action of sleep-inducing chemicals. Further, caffeine is absorbed by the system within 15 minutes, and its effects can last for over 6 hours.

Insomnia usually starts as an occasional problem, but gradually becomes a long-term problem if it is not addressed. People tend to adopt unhealthy sleeping habits after a few sleepless nights, by working late, drinking alcohol to fall asleep or resorting to sleeping pills.

Medical Conditions that can lead to Insomnia and Disturbed Sleep

1. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism (or a hyperactive thyroid) can lead to insomnia. This disorder tends to over-stimulate the nervous system, making it difficult to fall asleep. An overactive thyroid can also cause a person to wake up frequently during the night.

2. GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) : It refers to a condition that causes heartburn (burning behind the sternum), chest pain, sour belching/vomiting due to reflux of stomach acid from a weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Acid reflux tends to get worse at night, and its symptoms can lead to disturbed sleep.

3. Restless legs syndrome (RLS)

Restless Leg Syndrome is a condition in which a person has an irresistible urge to move the legs to relieve the discomforting sensation felt in the legs.

4. Sleep Apnea

People with sleep apnea are also at risk of disturbed sleep and insomnia. Sleep apnea is the condition where a person experiences momentary pauses in breathing. It leads to a drop in oxygen levels. These factors cause a person to wake up briefly many times throughout the night causing disturbed sleep.

5. Chronic Pain due to Other Conditions

People dealing with chronic pain due to conditions like arthritis, backache, and fibromyalgia also tend to suffer from insomnia or disturbed sleep.

6. Other conditions that can lead to insomnia include asthma, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.

7. Mental health disorders related to insomnia include depression, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), and anxiety disorders.

Meniere’s Disease – Wonderful Homeopathic Remedies For Its Treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 98 Comments

Meniere’s disease is a condition affecting the inner ear characterized by episodes of vertigo, a variable degree of hearing impairment and tinnitus (a triad of symptoms). It is also termed as Endolymphatic Hydrops.
Homeopathy carries excellent scope to treat cases of Meniere’s disease. Homeopathic medicines are of natural origin that manage its symptoms wonderfully and work to stop further progression of the disease. Symptoms like tinnitus, vertigo, ear fullness, hearing loss are seen to get remarkably better with these medicines. Homeopathy helps in treating this condition by targeting the root cause behind it. As the symptoms of Meniere’s disease result from a build-up of excessive fluid in the inner ear, so homeopathy works in reducing fluid accumulation to give excellent symptom relief in such cases. The regular use of homeopathic medicines also helps to decrease the dependency on the use of conventional medicines that might bring side effects with prolonged use.

Safe medicines with zero side effects

Homeopathic medicines for Meniere’s disease are 100% safe with zero side effects. This is because of the fact that the homeopathic medicines are sourced from natural substances. These medicines are used in highly diluted doses. Even with long term use of these medicines no side effects occur.

Medicine Prescription based on Homeopathic Principles

There is no hit and trial method for prescribing medicines in homeopathy. Rather medicines are selected strictly as per the homeopathic principles fixed in every case. Even its potency, dose and repetition is done following homeopathic guidelines. Such well-selected medicines and doses prove highly effective in treating Meniere’s disease. A well-selected remedy for Meniere’s disease can help reduce the severity of the troublesome symptoms associated with tinnitus and vertigo and improve the quality of life of anybody dealing with the disease.

Homeopathy cures by treating root cause

Initially, homeopathy works to treat the severity of acute symptoms of Meniere’s disease. Then its focus is to treat the root cause behind the disease to further lead the sufferer on the road to cure. However, the results vary from case to case based on the duration and intensity of the complaint.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Meniere’s Disease

The top 7 homeopathic medicines for Meniere’s Disease include Chininum Sulph, Conium Maculatum, Kali Muriaticum, Gelsemium, Chenopodium Anthelminticum, Salicylicum Acid and Natrum Salicylicum.

1. Chininum Sulph – For Ringing Noises in Ear

Chinimum sulph is one of the top- indicated medicines for meniere’s disease. The leading symptom to use this medicine in most of the cases is the presence of tinnitus with an unusual sensation of ringing or roaring in the ears. It is invariably associated with vertigo. People in whom Chinimum sulph may generally be indicated have complaints of postural dizziness and heaviness in the ears. Vertigo could be very sudden in onset and in severe cases the person may fall due to loss of balance. Generally, they may feel uncomfortable in a standing posture. Chininum sulph gives desired results when there is a considerable degree of hearing loss (especially that affects the left ear).

When to use Chininum Sulph?

This medicine is highly recommended for meniere’s disease with ringing or roaring noises in the ears, vertigo and hearing loss.

How to use Chininum Sulph?

Chininum Sulph 30C can be taken once or twice a day.

2. Conium Maculatum – For Vertigo Attacks in Meniere’s Disease

Conium Maculatum is prepared from a flowering plant of natural order Umbelliferae native to Europe and North Africa. Conium is usually suitable for people who experience severe Vertigo in Meniere’s disease. Sideways motion of the head tends to worsen the condition. A feeling of moving around in a circle may be present, and vertigo may also get worse from any movement in bed.

When to use Conium Maculatum?

Conium is the best choice of medicine to manage vertigo attacks in meniere’s disease especially when vertigo is worse from sideways motion of the head.

How to use Conium Maculatum?

Both low and high potencies of this medicine work well, however, it is advised to begin with its 30C potency that can be taken one or two times a day.

3. Kali Muriaticum – For Meniere’s Disease with Fullness in Ears

Kali Muriaticum is a remedy that works well in cases of Meneire’s disease with a marked fullness sensation in ears. A sensation of having a plug inside ears may also be present. It is also useful for noises in the ears. There is a crackling noise in the ears on swallowing. There is deafness due to swelling of the internal ear and eustachian tube. Vertigo is present, along with head congestion. There may be a history of chronic catarrhal conditions of the middle ear.

When to use Kali Muriaticum?

It is well indicated medicine to manage fullness sensation in ears in cases of meniere’s disease.

How to use Kali Muriaticum?

Kali Muriaticum is mostly preferred in 6X potency that can be taken three to four times a day.

4. Gelsemium – For Meniere’s Disease with Dizziness

Gelsemium is a natural medicine for Meniere’s disease. It is prepared from a plant commonly named ‘yellow jasmine,’ of natural order Loganiaceae. Use of this medicine is considered when there is marked dizziness in Meniere’s Disease. Difficulty in walking with a loss of balance may arise from dizziness. Roaring noises in ears attend the above features.

When to use Gelsemium?

This medicine can be selected for managing dizziness with roaring noises and loss of balance in meniere’s disease.

How to use Gelsemium?

It is advised to use Gelsemium 30C one to two times a day.

5. Chenopodium Anthelminticum – For Meniere’s Disease with Buzzing Noises

Chenopodium anthelmenticum is prepared from a plant named ‘Jerusalem oak.’ This plant belongs to the natural order Chenopodiaceae. It is suitable for Meniere’s disease when the person hears a buzzing noise in the ear. Sudden vertigo episodes, hearing better for high pitched sounds than low pitched sounds, and tinnitus that is synchronous (happening at same time) with heartbeats are the symptoms indicative of using Chenopodium.

When to use Chenopodium Anthelminticum?

Its use is usually considered to manage meniere’s disease with buzzing noises in ears and sudden vertigo attacks. Its use can also be thought of when the tinnitus is synchronous with heartbeats.

How to use Chenopodium Anthelminticum?

Opt its use in 30C power once or twice daily.

6. Salicylicum Acid – For Meniere’s Disease for Tinnitus and Vertigo with Nausea

Salicylicum Acid works well in those cases of Meniere’s disease where tinnitus and vertigo are present with troublesome nausea. The noises in the ear can be roaring, ringing, or buzzing (similar to flies or a swarm of bees) in nature. In some cases, a person hears musical noises. There is vertigo, diminished hearing, and with intense nausea.

When to use Salicylicum Acid?

It is the best choice of medicine for cases of meniere’s disease having roaring, ringing, or buzzing tinnitus with vertigo and intense nausea.

How to use Salicylicum Acid?

Salicylicum Acid can be taken in 30C potency upto two times a day.

7. Natrum Salicylicum – For Tinnitus of Low Tone in Meniere’s Disease

Natrum Salicylicum is well-indicated for tinnitus of low tone. Along with noises, there is dizziness and deafness. Vertigo that gets worse from raising the head, and gets better upon lying down is present.

When to use Natrum Salicylicum?

It is helpful medicine for managing tinnitus of low tone along with vertigo worse from raising the head, and better upon lying.

How to use Natrum Salicylicum?

Natrum Salicylicum can be used in 30 C potency once a day.

Meniere’s Disease: Symptoms

Vertigo

Vertigo is one of the most bothersome symptoms suffered by people dealing with Meniere’s Disease. It comes in attacks, with sudden onsets. There is a feeling of spinning (to-and-fro or up-and-down) during an attack. The episodes can last from a few minutes to hours. At times the attacks are accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Most of the time there are no warning signs of vertigo, but sometimes the sensation of fullness in ears may precede an attack. In severe cases, there may be abdominal cramps, diarrhea or bradycardia (slow heart rate) associated with the episode.

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss may accompany or precede an attack of vertigo. In majority of the cases, it is sensorineural type of hearing loss. The hearing loss gets better after the attack and usually becomes normal during the remission period. This kind of fluctuating hearing loss is characteristic of Meniere’s disease. However, with recurrent episodes, the improvement in hearing loss may not occur during the remission, and one can develop permanent hearing loss. There is slow and progressive hearing loss in most of the cases.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus refers to hearing noises in ears in the absence of an external source. There is ringing or roaring in ears which gets worse during the attacks. The intensity and pitch of tinnitus can vary during and after the attacks. Tinnitus can be a constant symptom in some of the cases. This can further hinder the hearing and also affect the quality of life.

Fullness in Ears

The patients can experience a sensation of fullness or blockage in the ears. It can occur with vertigo or exist independently. This symptom can also fluctuate, and the intensity varies.

Intolerance to Loud Sounds

In some patients, there is an increased sensitivity to loud noises, and it becomes difficult for them to tolerate the same. This is because it is hard for them to tolerate amplification of sounds.

Meniere’s Disease: Causes

The cause behind Meniere’s disease is not yet clear. Environmental and genetic factors both seem to play some role in the development of Meniere’s Disease. The disease is thought to run in families.

Meniere’s Disease occurs when there is distention of the fluid (Endolymph) in the inner ear. The function of endolymph is to aid hearing and to maintain the body balance. The distention can be either due to overproduction or faulty absorption of this endolymphatic fluid. Sometimes, both overproduction and reduced absorption can co-exist and cause Meniere’s Disease.

Genetic Factors

Certain abnormalities in the structure of inner ear running in the families can make a person more disposed to develop Meniere’s disease. They are at high risk if they have a strong family history of Meniere’s disease.

Allergy

Allergies can also predispose a person to develop Meniere’s. In such cases, the offending allergens stimulate the inner ear causing excess production of endolymph.

Sodium and Water Retention

Certain theories relate increased sodium levels as a contributing factor towards the development of Meniere’s Disease. This causes excessive water retention in the ear leading to endolymphatic hydrops.

Vasomotor Disturbance

There is some sympathetic overactivity (the involuntary part of the nervous system associated with constriction or dilatation of blood vessels) resulting in spasm of the internal auditory artery. This interferes with the function of the cochlear or vestibular epithelium (in the inner ear) leading to vertigo and deafness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Meniere’s affect both ears?

Meniere’s usually affects one ear initially, but in chronic cases, one can develop the disease in both ears.

2. Should I avoid driving if I have Meniere’s?

In patients who have vertigo as a prominent and frequent symptom, it is usually advised to avoid driving. As it is difficult to predict a vertigo episode, one should not indulge in activities requiring body balance or minute concentration.

3. Who can be affected by Meniere’s?

Anyone can be affected by this condition. However, Meniere’s is more common in males and frequently seen in the age group of 30-60 years.

4. Can stress trigger Meniere’s disease?

Emotions like extreme anger and stress seem to act as a triggering factor in some cases. The episodes tend to be more frequent during a stressful period.

5. Does weather affect the condition?

Meniere’s is seen to get worse during the winters. Symptoms like the fullness of ears and vertigo episodes are more frequent and troublesome for the patients in winters. Also, the tinnitus seems to be louder in some. These are comparatively less severe during summers.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines For GERD, Acidity, Reflux and Heartburn

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 121 Comments

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) refers to a condition in which there is a back flow of the stomach acid into the esophagus (food pipe) resulting in heartburn (burning sensation felt behind the sternum also called retrosternal burning).

Homeopathy is a renowned system of healing that offers a very magnificent and gentle treatment for cases of GERD and acid reflux. Homeopathic medicines are natural remedies that aid safe and quick relief in GERD symptoms. These helps in GERD by correcting the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) dysfunction and restoring acid balance in the stomach thereby bringing substantial relief in the symptoms like heartburn, burping, nausea, and difficult swallowing. The reliance on antacids and PPI (Proton pump inhibitors) that can cause side effects if used for an extended duration can be brought down to minimum with the use of these natural remedies without any adverse effects.

Homeopathy can treat GERD from its root

Homeopathy acts deeply, and not superficially, to treat health issues. It is much more than simply offering symptomatic relief. It goes to the root cause of a problem and treats it from its origin. Likewise, homeopathic treatment can treat GERD from its core. Its recurrences can also be prevented if certain dietary and lifestyle precautions are taken simultaneously.

Effective for both acute and chronic cases

Homeopathy brings great results in both acute and chronic cases of GERD. Though the time to show improvement varies as per chronicity, in acute cases, it assures to bring prompt symptom relief and resolve the condition quickly. In chronic cases, it works to reduce the intensity and frequency of GERD symptoms gradually along with targeting the root cause for a permanent cure.

Homeopathy can prevent GERD complications

Long-term GERD may also lead to several complications. But, with the help of a timely course of natural homeopathic remedies for the prescribed duration, one can also avoid its complications like esophagitis, and ulcers in the esophagus.

Zero side effects

Homeopathy treats GERD without any risk of any side effects. Even with long term use of homeopathic remedies no harmful effects follow. This is due to the fact that homeopathic remedies are natural and do not contain any toxins or chemicals.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Acid Reflux, Heartburn, and GERD

The top medicines that are used to treat GERD are Iris Versicolor, Robinia, Natrum Phos, Carbo Veg, Nux Vomica, Arsenic Album, and Pulsatilla.

1. Iris Versicolor – For Sour, Bitter Belching and Heartburn

Iris Versicolor is a natural medicine for treating GERD. It is prepared from a plant commonly named ‘blue flag.’ The natural order of this plant is Iridaceae. Sour, bitter belching is the key feature to use this medicine. Vomiting of sour bitter fluid that burns the throat, vomiting with weakness, a smarting, burning sensation in the throat, and heartburn are the key symptoms. There may be burning distress and pains in the epigastric region (the part above the stomach) at frequent intervals. Constant nausea may be present with these symptoms.
There is excessive indigestion, and the food is vomited after an hour or so of eating a meal. Iris Versicolor is also a well-indicated medicine for a headache arising with acidity.

When to use Iris Versicolor?

This medicine is recommended for GERD with sour, bitter belchings (burps), heartburn and sour vomiting.

How to use Iris Versicolor?

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

2. Robinia – When Acidity Symptoms Worsen At Night

Robinia is a top listed medicine for treating GERD. Robinia is prepared from a plant named ‘yellow locust.’ The natural order of this plant is Leguminosae. The key indication to use this medicine in GERD is the worsening of acidity symptoms at night time. There is intense heartburn, constant sour belching, and sour vomiting due to the regurgitation of acid from the stomach. As the symptoms tend to get worse at night time these can cause sleeplessness.

When to use Robinia?

This medicine is well indicated when acidity symptoms like heartburn, sour burps get worse at night time.

How to use Robinia?

It is advised to use Robinia 30 C twice or thrice a day

3. Natrum Phos – For Heartburn and Difficult Swallowing

Natrum Phos is another prominently indicated medicine for GERD treatment. It is useful when heartburn is attended with difficulty swallowing. Other symptoms include sour belching, waterbrash, and vomiting of sour fluid or cheesy, curdled masses. A lump sensation in the throat may also be present, along with a loss of appetite.

When to use Natrum Phos?

Natrum Phos can be opted for managing GERD with heartburn along with difficulty in swallowing.

How to use Natrum Phos?

Natrum Phos can be administered in 6X potency three to four times a day.

4. Carbo Veg – For Bloating and Heartburn

Carbo Veg is an excellent medicine for GERD treatment. It is useful when there is bloating along with heartburn. Sour, offensive belching that gets worse after drinking or eating, a burning sensation in the throat, and difficulty in swallowing are other symptoms. Even the simplest of foods tend to trigger the condition.

When to use Carbo Veg?

This medicine is suitable when abdominal bloating attends complaint of heartburn even from eating the simplest kind of food.

How to use Carbo Veg?

Carbo Veg 30C can be taken twice or thrice a day as per symptom intensity.

5. Nux Vomica – For Acidity from spicy food, coffee, alcohol

Nux Vomica is a highly effective medicine in general for managing several gastric issues including acidity from spicy food, coffee, and alcohol. In cases needing it burning in the throat, heartburn and sour belching occurs. It may be accompanied by a cough. Nux Vomica is one of the best-indicated medicines for a gastric cough that gets worse at night time and prevents sleep. Vomiting usually appears from coughing. The throat is sore and raw, and swallowing may be painful.

When to use Nux Vomica?

Nux Vomica can be considered when acidity is worse from the intake of spicy food, coffee, or alcohol.

How to use Nux Vomica?

It is recommended to take Nux Vomica at 30 C power once or twice a day

6. Arsenic Album – For Burning Pain in Throat

Arsenic Album is a medicine for GERD that is accompanied by a burning pain in the throat. The burning gets worse upon swallowing. Swallowing is difficult and painful. Other symptoms include regurgitation of acrid matter, water brash, heartburn, intense nausea, and weakness. Arsenic Album is also a well indicated medicine for inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis).

When to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine can be selected to manage burning pain in the throat along with painful and difficult swallowing.

How to use Arsenic Album?

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

7. Pulsatilla Nigricans – For Acid Reflux from Fatty Food

Pulsatilla Nigricans is a natural medicine prepared from a plant named ‘windflower.’ The natural order of this plant is Ranunculaceae. It is used in cases of GERD where consumption of fatty food worsens the complaint. Greasy, fatty foods like creams, pastries, and ice creams trigger acid reflux. The symptoms include heartburn and water brash. Belching of food, bitter taste in the mouth, nausea, and a sensation of lumping in the throat may be present.

When to use Pulsatilla Nigricans?

It is an ideal medicine for cases of acidity that worsens from eating fatty food like creams, pastries, ice creams.

How to use Pulsatilla Nigricans?

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

Main Cause of Heartburn

To understand GERD, one will have to first understand how our esophagus (food pipe) and stomach handle food and acid. As the food reaches the lower end of the food pipe, a circular muscle (the LES or lower esophageal sphincter) present around the food pipe opens up and allows the food to enter the stomach. Once it enters the stomach, this muscle closes the lower end of the food pipe. This behaves like a one-way valve stopping the food and the acid in the stomach from moving back into the esophagus. In Gerd, this valve relaxes abnormally or weakens, so the stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus very frequently, causing repeated attacks of heartburn.

GERD: Symptoms

– Heartburn, which is a burning sensation in the chest behind the breastbone. It gets worse after eating, lying down, and bending.
– Burning in the throat
– Chest pain
– Sour, bitter belching or water brash (sudden flow of saliva due to indigestion) from regurgitation of food or sour liquid
– Sour taste in the mouth
– Difficulty in swallowing
– Sensation of a lump in the throat
– Bad breath
– Feeling of Abdominal bloating
– Cough
– Laryngitis
– Worsening of asthmatic complaint

Risk Factors: GERD

The risk factors for GERD include obesity, hiatus hernia (bulging of the upper part of the stomach through the hiatus opening in the diaphragm), smoking, pregnancy, strenuous exercise right after eating a meal, heavy exercise with a focus on the core muscles of the abdomen, exercises that involve hanging upside down or bending, and weightlifting.

Factors that can Trigger or Worsen GERD Symptoms

It firstly includes certain food and drinks such as fatty foods, fried food, chocolates, spicy food, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, caffeinated drinks, and alcohol which are known to worsen GERD symptoms. The other reason could be taking medications such as NSAIDs, antibiotics (such as tetracycline), pain relievers (such as ibuprofen and aspirin), birth control pills, and iron supplements. Other factors may include stress, late-night eating, eating food in large quantities, and immediately lying down after eating food.

Complications/ Long-term Effects of GERD

Long-standing uncontrolled or untreated GERD carries a risk of developing certain complications. These include inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis), ulcers/erosions in the esophagus, and stricture of the esophagus from a scar that causes narrowing of the esophagus. A serious complication of GERD is Barrett’s esophagus in which the squamous type of cells present in the lining of the esophagus change from squamous type to columnar epithelial type which is considered a precancerous condition.

Managing Acid Reflux and GERD

Some tips that can help minimize acid reflux and manage GERD include:

1. Drinking More Water

2. Avoiding Smoking and Alcohol

3. Eating Small, Regular Meals

4. Regular Exercising

5. Minimizing use of certain medications like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and hormone replacement drugs

6. Taking dinner early

7. Avoiding Overeating

8. Maintaining a Healthy Weight

9. Keeping head slightly elevated while sleeping

10. Stress Management

11. Foods to Avoid: These include animal products and dairy products, caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, and carbonated drinks. allergy-causing foods like gluten, certain nuts, or synthetic ingredients, fatty foods, overly spicy foods, tomatoes, and chocolates.

Cough Variant Asthma Natural Treatment with Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 22 Comments

As the name suggests, cough variant asthma is a type of asthma that causes a dry, non-productive and constant cough as its primary symptom. It is commonly seen in children, or during early childhood. It may later develop into a typical Asthma condition with wheezing. Once triggered, an episode of cough variant asthma can last for 6-8 weeks. Homeopathic medicine for cough variant asthma can be used with conventional treatment to help reduce the severity of symptoms and treat the chronic condition.

Symptoms of Cough Variant Asthma (CVA)

Symptoms of cough variant asthma are different from those of typical asthma. The characteristic sign of wheezing is usually not present in cough variant Asthma. It is not mandatory that every individual with cough variant asthma will develop asthma. The symptoms of cough variant asthma include:

Dry, spasmodic and persistent cough is the most common and prominent symptom of cough variant asthma. A cough can occur at any time of the day, but it is usually more in the evening and night hours.
Vomiting followed by a cough is also commonly seen.
Some may also complain of difficulty in breathing.
Sleeplessness: Because of the incessant and frequent episodes of cough, one might have reduced or disturbed sleep.
Flu-like Symptoms: In some cases, there may be associated flu-like symptoms of sneezing, runny nose and fever.

Who is at Risk of Developing Cough Variant Asthma?

· Children, especially during their early childhood, are at a higher risk of developing it.

· Someone with a family history of asthma.

· Associated history of pneumonia or bronchitis increases the risk.

· Person with a weak immune system.

· People exposed to environmental pollution or those living around farms

· Active or passive smokers.

· Obese People

· Presence of any other allergic conditions.

Some other conditions that can cause a cough, but are not necessarily CVA include bronchitis, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorders), blood pressure medication in adults, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), post nasal drip, etc.

Cough Variant Asthma Natural Treatment with Homeopathy

Homeopathy has some natural remedies for cough variant asthma that help treat cough variant asthma from the root. It is an entirely natural approach which not only addresses cough variant asthma but also naturally eliminates the tendency of having a recurrent cough.
In case of asthma, bronchodilators are the first line of conventional treatment used in most cases of cough variant asthma. They work by dilating the narrowed airways. In some instances, the dilators might increase a cough due to the sensitivity of the airways. In such cases, oral immune-suppressants may be prescribed.
All these modes of treatment give temporary relief from a cough and help calm down an acute episode. But in the long run, they affect the immune system and make a person more prone to have recurrent episodes, and also increase the allergic tendencies.
However, if a cough is severe, with marked dyspnoea (difficult breathing), the use of inhalers is necessary. Treating the acute condition is essential. Also, if someone has been using inhalers quite frequently, they should not suddenly withdraw them after starting homeopathy. The ideal way is to gradually reduce the usage of inhalers and switch over to homeopathy.

Cough Variant Asthma Natural Treatment -Homeopathic Medcines That Help

Cina Maritima – Natural Homeopathic Medicine for Cough Variant Asthma with Paroxysmal Cough

Cina Maritima is a remedy prepared from a plant called Artemisia Maritima which belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as “wormseed” or “Santonica.” This homeopathic medicine is prepared from the dried flowers of this plant. The plant contains lots of essential and volatile oils. In ancient times, it was known to be used by Greek and Romans for its medicinal properties.
This is one of the top homeopathic remedies for cough variant asthma. The primary symptom indicative of this remedy is there are paroxysms (sudden, violent episodes) of a cough. Vomiting with the cough is another important feature indicating the need for Cina. The child may throw up after the violent coughing. The cough is dry and is usually gets worse at night. A dry cough might be associated with flu-like symptoms, mainly sneezing and loss of appetite with sleeplessness.
The child requiring Cina might also complain of a tickling sensation in the throat. The mucus rattles in the chest, and the child is not able to expel it out. Shortness of breath or suffocation accompanies the cough episodes. At night, the breathing is loud, short and the child sleeps with an open mouth. Cina is very helpful in cases where the child has to put much effort into breathing because of which there may be excessive sweating at night. Some of the common triggering factors for the asthma troubles that are treated well with Cina are exposure to cold air, evening/night time or when the child wakes up from sleep.

Key Indications for using Cina for CVA:

-Paroxysmal Cough
– Rattling Mucus
– Excessive sweating at night

Drosera – Natural Medicine for Cough Variant Asthma When there is Cough with Vomiting

The plant of Drosera, commonly known as Sundew, is one of the most widespread species of Sundew. It grows widely in the areas of Europe, North America, Siberia, Japan, Korea and in some parts of United States. In the 16th Century, it was used by the physicians for skin eruptions. In the 18th Century, it was majorly used by the Germans for a whooping cough and other chest disorders. The fresh plant is used to make the homeopathic tincture of this remedy.
A very characteristic feature that indicates the need for Drosera is a spasmodic cough with vomiting. There is an episode of incessant dry cough resulting in retching and vomiting. Vomiting of food, water or mucus can be seen. The episodes are too frequent, one followed by the other, making the breathing difficult and short. There can be extreme weakness followed by the episode. The cough is worse after lying down at night.
Drosera is very helpful in cases of cough variant asthma where the person complains of a feeling of constriction or heaviness in the chest. The child usually wakes up due to an episode of a spasmodic cough lasting for a few minutes and then goes to sleep. The episodes of cough variant asthma are also triggered by laughing, singing or at times excessive talking. The medicine is also indicated in cases where there is wheezing with a cough.

Key Indications for using Drosera for CVA:

– Spasmodic Cough
– Vomiting
– Wheezing

Coccus Cacti – Natural Treatment for Cough Variant Asthma with Suffocating Cough

Coccus Cacti one of the top homeopathic medicines for cough variant asthma. The main characteristic that indicates the need for this remedy is a tickling sensation in the larynx which wakes up a person at night. This is followed by an incessant cough ending in vomiting of profuse mucous or food.
A cough after rising in the morning or early morning cough (around 6:00 am or 7:00 am) which leads to vomiting of a lot of mucus also indicates the need for Coccus Cacti. It is also helpful in suffocative coughs, where there is an accumulation of mucus in the chest which is difficult to expel. A cough is at times triggered after dinner or due to overeating. Overfilling of the stomach may bring on paroxysms of a cough. There may also be a sense of discomfort or pressure in the chest due to the accumulation of excessive mucus. The cough episodes of CVA are triggered by brushing teeth or rinsing the mouth, clearing the throat, exposure to a warm room, or by consuming alcoholic beverages.

Key Indications for the use of Coccus Cacti for CVA:

– Tickling Sensation
– Early Morning Cough
– Suffocative Cough

Rumex – Natural Remedy for Cough Variant Asthma with Night Aggravation

Rumex belongs to the natural order of Polygonaceae. It is a native of Europe and America and grows in the dry fields or waste places. It is commonly known as the “Curled dock” or “Yellow Dock.” The tincture is prepared from fresh roots that are collected before flowering. Rumex is an effective homeopathic medicine for cough variant asthma. The cough is dry with constant tickling in the throat. One of the important indicative features of Rumex is the sensitivity to cold air. Slightest exposure to cold air or even uncovering at night can bring on the episodes of a cough. It is frequently used in cases of cough variant asthma where the cough episodes are bad during night time, preventing sleep. It is especially beneficial for cough in children. The child has a dry, suffocating, choking or barking type of a cough that is followed by tiredness or fatigue. Common triggering factors of a cough include cold air, talking, pressure on the throat, lying down or even moving to another room. The cough usually gets worse around 11:00 pm, 2:00 am and 5:00 am.

Ipecacuanha:Natural Homeopathic Medicine for Cough Variant Asthma with Vomiting

The plant of Ipecacuanha is a flowering plant which native to Brazil, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Panama. It belongs to the family Rubiaceae and the homeopathic tincture is prepared from dried and finely powdered roots of this plant. It is well indicated as a natural remedy for cough variant asthma for dry spasmodic cough provoked by tickling in the larynx. There is a constricted feeling in the throat which triggers the cough. The main indicative feature is that the episodes of cough are accompanied by nausea and vomiting. One ends up vomiting after almost every episode of cough. The cough is usually triggered at night (mostly after dinner or after going to bed). There can be associated pain in the abdomen or pressure in the bladder with cough. The episodes of cough are exhausting which can even last for an hour resulting into tiredness and fatigue. Cough with retching of a great amount of mucus. There is breathlessness and difficult breathing. The cough comes typically in fits. There is rattling of mucus or phlegm in the chest which is vomited with cough. It is well-indicated for evening coughs.

Spongia Tosta -Natural Homeopathic Medicine as Natural Treatment forVariant Asthma when Cough is Dry

Spongia is an adequate naural medicine for cough variant asthma and asthma. The main characteristic feature of Spongia is that is extreme dryness of the mucous membranes and the air passages. There is dryness of the throat, trachea, larynx and even tongue. A cough is caused due to excessive dryness, talking or rising from bed, drinking milk or cold drinks. Spongia is indicated when a cough is dry and barking in nature. It is usually worse after the midnight and gets better after eating or drinking warm liquids. There can be a pain in the chest while coughing. One might also experience painful pressure under the ribs while coughing. It is also indicated where wheezing is present along with a cough. There is a heavy sensation in the chest as if some mucus has accumulated, but there is no release of mucus. There might be some expulsion of mucus in a small quantity in the morning with effort. A cough with the sensation of heaviness making it difficult to breathe, frequent episodes of a night-time cough, sweating while coughing are other symptoms. The attacks of cough variant asthma are usually worse during winter.

Memphitis – Natural Medicine for Cough Variant Asthma with Violent Cough

Mephitis is a frequently used homeopathic medicine for cough variant asthma with dry and spasmodic coughs. The episodes of a cough are suffocative and worse at night. The spells of a dry cough are so severe and violent that it seems as if will it be life-threatening. There is a hollow cough with rawness and pain in the chest. There may be vomiting with a cough (especially after eating). There is vomiting immediately or a few hours after eating. Hoarseness and rattling of mucus with a cough, difficulty breathing at night (the individual has to sit up in bed to breathe), and difficulty in exhaling are other symptoms. The triggering factors of a cough are talking, reading loudly or drinking ice or cold water. The remedy is also indicated in cases where one has frequent episodes of flu or fever along with the cough variant asthma.

Causes of Cough Variant Asthma

There are multiple factors which can cause cough variant asthma:

Allergies
Allergies are one of the most common causes of CVA, especially in children. As it happens in typical asthma, exposure to the allergens can trigger incessant coughing. A cough is usually a mechanism of the body trying to expel something. When a person’s airway is exposed to the allergic substance, an incessant cough is triggered in response to it.

Common allergens found in cases of cough variant asthma are:

Dust
Pollen
Dust Mites
Molds
Animal Dander
Aspirin
Smoke
Environmental pollutants

Recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
These recurrent infections or even a prolonged episode of cold or flu can make a person vulnerable to develop cough variant asthma. Especially, if there is a baseline allergy, there is a higher risk of developing CVA.

Sensitive Airways
Individuals with sensitive airways are prone to develop a persistent and constant cough. At times, even exposure to cold air can trigger an episode of cough variant asthma. Their airways show hypersensitive reaction by inducing cough or constriction.

Difference between Asthma and Cough Variant Asthma

The main difference between asthma and cough variant asthma is the absence of symptoms like wheezing, a constricted feeling in the chest, dyspnoea (Difficult breathing), and shortness of breath in the case of CVA. These are the classic symptoms of asthma, while cough variant asthma is characterized mainly by a dry cough.

Top 11 Natural Homeopathic Medicines for Pollen Allergy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 106 Comments

The sudden appearance of symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes as a result of inhaling pollens is known as pollen allergy. An inflammatory response against the pollen grains is triggered by the immune system of a person allergic to pollen. Of the many substances that can cause a seasonal allergy, pollens remain one of the most common triggers. Pollen is a powdery substance produced by flowers, weeds, trees, and grass. All of us tend to inhale pollens while breathing, and they don’t cause any problem for most of us. However, people who are allergic to pollen grains show the symptoms of an allergy. A pollen allergy is also known as Hay fever, and it usually subsides with the onset of cold weather.

Homeopathic medicines can effectively manage an acute allergic reaction and also work well to treat the chronic tendency towards pollen allergy. Allergic symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, blocked nose, itchy eyes, redness of eye, eye watering, itching in throat, cough can be managed magnificently with the use of homeopathic medicines. Antihistamines, nasal sprays are most commonly used to treat allergic reactions in the conventional system of medicine. While they help deal with an acute allergic reaction, they only work on a short-term, temporary basis. Excessive use of these medications can cause side effects. Homeopathic medicines, on the other hand, have no side effects. Where required in severe cases, like asthma, allopathic medications and antihistamines can be taken to control a severe allergic flare up. However, overuse of conventional medicines like decongestant nasal sprays can cause further problems (like an allergy rebound) and should be used very sparingly.

Homeopathic medicines help in cases of pollen allergy by moderating the overactive immune system. Once the immune system is well moderated, relief sets in. Initially the acute symptoms are relieved wonderfully. Afterwards the chronicity of the complaint is treated. With the use of homeopathic medicines, the intensity and occurrence of the symptoms gradually decrease with every episode. Under the guidance of a homeopathic doctor, most cases recover completely. The results however vary from case to case.

The homeopathic prescription for pollen allergy is totally symptom based. It means the medicine is provided as per the characteristic symptoms in every case after detailed case study. Hence, the homeopathic medication for every case differs so does the potency and repetition of medicine. One should always take homeopathic medicine under the supervision of a homeopath to get best results.

Homeopathic medicines are totally safe and natural remedies for seasonal pollen allergies. They have zero side effects. Besides being safe to use, they cause no suppression at all. This treatment focuses to cure the complaint from its root rather than suppressing symptoms temporarily. Another positive aspect of this treatment is that they never cause any addiction and can be easily discontinued once recovery occurs.

Top 11 Homeopathic Medicines for Seasonal Pollen Allergy

The top recommended homeopathic medicines for pollen allergy are Natrum Mur, Allium Cepa, Sabadilla, Arsenic Album, Euphrasia, Arundo Mauri, Wyethia, Galphimia Glauca, Histaminum, Luffa Operculata and Cardiospermum.

1.Natrum Mur – Top Homeopathic Medicine for Pollen Allergy

Natrum Mur is a top listed homeopathic medicine for allergy caused by pollen grains. The person needing the medicine suffers violent sneezing (that gets worse early in the morning). Besides, watery discharge appears from the nose and eyes. Natrum Mur is also indicated when runny nose alternates with a stuffy one. Tickling in the throat along with cough may also be present.

When to use Natrum Mur?

This medicine is highly recommended to manage intense sneezing episodes along with watering from nose and eyes in cases of pollen allergy.

How to use Natrum Mur?

This medicine gives wonderful results in 6X potency that can be taken three to four times a day as per intensity of the complaint.

2. Allium Cepa – For Sneezing and Nasal Discharge Causing Burning In Nose

Allium Cepa is a well-indicated medicine for managing sneezing with profuse watery nasal discharge that causes burning in the nose. Sneezing tends to worsen upon entering a warm room. Allium Cepa is also indicated for cases where there is violent sneezing immediately on rising from the bed. A crawling, tingling, itchy sensation in the nostrils and itching is felt in the throat. There is watering from eyes. This medicine works well to treat pollen allergies and hay fever that appear during the spring season.

When to use Allium Cepa?

This medicine proves effective in pollen allergy cases when there is acute sneezing and watery discharge from nose which leads to burning in the nose.

How to use Allium Cepa?

Though this medicine can be used in both low and high potencies, initially it is safe to take 30C potency twice or thrice a day.

3. Sabadilla –For Sneezing, Nasal Discharge With Pain In Forehead

Sabadilla is the next prominent medicine for allergy caused by pollen grains. The characteristic feature that indicates the need for this remedy is violent sneezing, and nasal watery discharge with pain in the forehead area. Besides, itching and tickling sensations are felt in the nose, which makes the person rub the nose excessively. There may be blockage of nose on alternate sides.

When to use Sabadilla?

Sabadilla is an excellent choice of medicine for pollen allergy when there is marked sneezing attended with watery nasal discharge and pain in forehead.

How to use Sabadilla?

It can be used in 30C potency twice or thrice a day. It can also be used in 200C potency but only under the supervision of a homeopathic physician.

4. Arsenic Album – For Nasal Discharge Causing Burning In Nose And On Upper Lip

Arsenic Album is a suitable homeopathic medicine for pollen allergy with profuse watery nasal discharge and sneezing. The discharges cause burning sensation in the nose and irritate the upper lip. The symptoms tend to get worse in open air while staying indoors helps relieve the symptoms.

When to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine should be considered for managing pollen allergy with excessive watery nasal discharge that leads to burning inside nose and on the upper lip.

How to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine can be taken in 30C potency. The dose should be just once a day.

5. Euphrasia – For Itchy, Watery, Red Eyes

Euphrasia treats pollen allergy which causes symptoms like itchy, watery, red eyes. The eye watering is profuse. It cause burning, biting, smarting, and scalding in the eyes. Swelling of lids may occur. Watery, profuse discharge from the nose (bland in nature) is also noted. In some cases, there is profuse discharge from the nose during the day and obstruction of the nose at night.

When to use Euphrasia?

This medicine is most suitable to treat itching in thr eyes along with eye watering and redness in cases of pollen allergy.

How to use Euphrasia?

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

6. Arundo Mauri – For Allergy With Itching In Nostrils, Palate, And Eyes

Homeopathic medicine Arundo Mauri is the topmost medicine for managing itching in nostrils, palate (roof of the mouth), and eyes. Coryza and sneezing, loss of smell and prickling and burning in the eyes may also be present.

When to use Arundo Mauri?

The key indications to use this medicine in cases of pollen allergy are itching in nose, palate and eyes.

How to use Arundo Mauri?

This medicine can be taken in 30C potency once or twice a day. High potencies should be used under the supervision of a homeopathic doctor.

7. Wyethia – For Itching on Palate and Dry, Hacking Cough

Wyethia is a beneficial homeopathic medicine for itching of palate. There is dry, hacking cough. It is also indicated for cases with itching in inner canthi of eyes and allergic asthma.

When to use Wyethia?

The characteristic feature to use this medicine is itching on the palate and a dry cough in pollen allergy cases.

How to use Wyethia?

One can take this medicine once or twice a day in 30C power.

8. Galphimia Glauca – For Allergy with Burning Discharges from Eyes and Nose

Galphimia Glauca is a significant homeopathic medicine for pollen allergy when there is burning discharges from the eyes and nose. Sneezing also appears which worsens in the morning. Itching in eyes (especially in the morning) and swelling of the eyelids is also noted.

When to use Galphimia Glauca?

This medicine should be opted to treat pollen allergy with discharges from eyes and nose attended with burning sensation.

How to use Galphimia Glauca?

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

9. Histaminum – Homeopathic Medicine for Pollen Allergy

Histaminum is another useful homeopathic medicine for treating pollen allergy. It helps reduce the hypersensitivity of the immune system. Histaminum helps in controlling symptoms of pollen allergy, like sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. It also helps in asthmatic conditions arising from allergies.

When to use Histaminum?

This medicine suits well pollen allergy cases with sneezing, watery discharge from nose and blocked nose.

How to use Histaminum?

Histaminum can be utilized once a day in 30C potency.

10. Luffa Operculata – For Allergy with Stuffy Nose and Sneezing

Luffa Operculata is indicated for pollen allergy with a stuffy nose and sneezing. Sometimes, a bland nasal discharge may be present. Burning, itching at the outer corners of the eyes, nasal polyps (non-cancerous growths inside the nose) and sinusitis complaints may also be present.

When to use Luffa Operculata?

This medicine is indicated for treating sneezing along with nasal blockage in cases of pollen allergy.

How to use Luffa Operculata?

This medicine is usually preferred in 30C potency once a day.

11. Cardiospermum – For Allergy with Sneezing in the Morning

Cardiospermum is effective for pollen allergy when sneezing appears in the morning upon waking. Itchy, watery eyes, obstruction of the nose, sinus congestion and a dry throat with scratchiness may arise along with other symptoms.

When to use Cardiospermum?

Cardiospermum works well to treat pollen allergy with prominent sneezing in morning on waking.

How to use Cardiospermum?

It is recommended to take Cardiospermum once a day in 30C power.

Symptoms of a Pollen Allergy

Since every plant has its own pollinating period, the symptoms of pollen allergies are triggered when the particular plant is producing pollen. A person who is allergic to a specific type of pollen will develop allergic symptoms only when exposed to that particular pollen. The main symptoms of a pollen allergy include:

– A runny nose

– Sneezing

– Stuffy or blocked nose

– Watery, itchy, red, swollen eyes

– Itchy, scratchy throat

– Cough

– Asthmatic reaction with wheezing, breathlessness, and coughing

– Worsening of sinusitis complaint

The Mechanism of a Pollen Allergy

When an allergen (like pollen) enters the body of a person with a sensitive immune system, it triggers the production of antibodies to fight the foreign particles. These antibodies are small proteins that lock onto the pollen grains, and they also bind to other white blood cells.
The next time pollen enters the nose; these cells break open to release histamine, which is a chemical released by the body to direct an inflammatory response against the foreign bodies. A large amount of histamine released causes itching, swelling of affected tissues, mucus production, muscle spasms, and other symptoms of an allergy.

Top 3 Homeopathic Medicines for Treating Stress

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 109 Comments

Stress is a regular part of life, and everyone experiences it from time to time. In some cases, stress can help a person work better under difficult conditions to achieve goals. It can be essential too, for survival in certain circumstances (to trigger the fight-or-flight response in case of danger). However, severe chronic stress that continues for a long time and is not managed can manifest itself in the form of physical problems. Homeopathy for stress works at a psychological level to help the body cope with the stressful conditions, and also minimize the physiological effects of stress.

Stress is a body’s natural way of responding to any danger or threat. When a person senses a threat, certain hormones come into action that either help fight the situation or run away from it. The hormones released in stressful conditions include cortisol and adrenaline. These lead to increased heart rate, alertness, accelerated breathing, high blood pressure, and tightening of muscles. Frequent arousal of this stress mechanism has harmful physical and psychological effects.

Causes of Stress

Different people react to the same kind of stress in different ways. One person may find a given situation stressful while for another person, a similar situation causes no stress. Stress to a large extent depends on a person’s perception of a given situation. Various factors can trigger stress, and these are known as stressors. Some of the major stressors include:

– problems at the workplace

– financial crisis

– disharmony in relationships, marriage

– major life changes

– negative thinking (pessimism)

– demanding perfectionism in everything

– job loss, unemployment

– moving to a new home

– an illness

– death of a family member or someone loved

– stress after a traumatic incidence like abuse, violence, natural disaster or an accident (a condition known as PTSD – post-traumatic stress disorder)

Symptoms of Stress

The symptoms of stress are seen on different levels. Some important symptoms include:

Symptoms of stress on a physical level include:

Fatigue
Headache
Stomach problems
Seeping troubles
Muscle aches/
Changes in sex drive
Chest pain

Symptoms of stress on the emotional level include:

Anger
Irritability
Mood changes
Anxiety
Depression
Feeling of isolation

Symptoms of stress on the behavioral aspect include:

Withdrawal from others
Using drugs
Abuse of alcohol or tobacco
Eating excessively
Loss of Appetite
Changed sleeping patterns where a person sleeps too much or too little

Symptoms of stress on the cognitive level include:

Difficulty in concentration
Weak memory
Difficulty in making judgments

Homeopathy for Stress

The homeopathic system of medicine carries an excellent scope to help a person manage stress. Homeopathic medicines are constitutional remedies that work on a deep psychological level to give the best results in stress management. They help in building stamina to cope with day-to-day stresses of life. They also help overcome chronic grief that is causing stress. Conditions like depression and anxiety arising from long-standing stress are also treated well with homeopathic medicines.
The top listed homeopathic medicines for stress include Kali Phos, Ignatia Amara, and Natrum Mur.

1. Kali Phos – Top Medicine to Manage Stress

Kali Phos for stress is a top listed remedy used to manage stress that arises from overstraining of mind at the workplace or home.
A constant state of cares and worries leading to stress is a guiding feature to use this medicine. It helps to relax the overstrained mind. People needing Kali Phos tend to remain sad, irritable and restless and may be over-sensitive to noise and light. The person also tends to feel weak, fatigued and exhausted from minimal exertion. Indifference to life, a weak memory, and stress headaches are treated well with Kali Phos. Sleeplessness from stress is also treated with this homeopathic remedy.

Key indications for using Kali Phos for Stress:

– Overstrained mind
– Fatigue
– Headache and Sleeplessness

2. Ignatia Amara – For Managing Stress due to Grief

Ignatia Amara is a well indicated medicine for managing stress that stems from some grief. For example, the grief over the death of a near or dear one or disappointment in love that leads to stress is treated well with Ignatia. The person needing this medicine has consistently sad thoughts, weeps bitterly and has a desire to be left alone. He/She may also sob and sigh frequently. A changeable mood where the person laughs and weeps in quick succession, an indifference to things the person loved in the past, discouragement, mental and physical exhaustion, and dullness of mind and difficulty in comprehension are some other symptoms that may be noted. Such people may also get frightened easily and tend to have restless sleep. Other related symptoms include head heaviness, loss of appetite, constipation and muscle twitches.

Key indications for using Ignatia Amara for Stress

– Stress from grief
– Continuous sadness and weeping
– Mental and physical exhaustion

3. Natrum Mur – For Stress that results in Depression

Natrum Mur as a remedy for stress works well in cases where the stress leads to depression. The guiding features to use Natrum Mur are a desire to be alone, aversion to talking and weeping in loneliness. Consolation tends to worsen the condition, and the person develops an aversion to doing any work (whether physical or mental). They are hurried, anxious and hopeless about the future. They also become absent-minded and suffer from weakness of memory. Dullness of mind and difficulty thinking, fluttering of heart and palpitations are other features. Natrum Mur is also useful for treating hair loss resulting from stress and depression.

Key indications for using Natrum Mur for Stress

– A desire for loneliness
– Aversion to work
– Hair loss from stress

Other Important Medicines

4. Arsenic Album – For Stress that Leads to Anxiety

Arsenic Album is a medicine for stress that leads to anxiety. Anxiety with extreme restlessness, overthinking with several thoughts crowding the mind, a fear of death, trembling, cold sweat, and facial flushing are the typical symptoms that indicate the need for this medicine. Constriction of chest and difficulty in breathing may also be present. The anxiety attacks are more prevalent after midnight. Utmost exhaustion is present in a majority of the cases.

5. Aconitum Napellus – For Managing Acute Stress with Panic Attacks

Aconitum Napellus is a natural medicine prepared from a plant named ‘monkshood.’ As a remedy for stress, Aconitum Napellus is used to manage acute stress (of great intensity) with panic attacks. Extreme anxiety with restlessness and hurriedness along with intense palpitations are the main symptoms. A fear of death may also be present.

6. Coffea Cruda – For Managing Sleeplessness from Stress

Coffea Cruda is a medicine used to treat sleeplessness that develops due to stress. Excessive thoughts flow through the mind constantly and lead to sleeplessness. Palpitations may be present, and the person tosses about in the bed from side to side. Nervousness, restlessness, excessive weeping and lamenting over trifles, oversensitivity, and irritability are the main symptoms that indicate the need for Coffea Cruda.

7. Nux Vomica – For Stress with Irritability and Anger Outbursts

Nux Vomica is a prominent medicine indicated for stress accompanied by irritability and anger outbursts. Nux Vomica is suitable when the person is stressed and tends to get easily angered or irritable, get offended easily, and are quarrelsome. Oversensitivity to light, noise, smell, and anxiety about small things, sleeplessness, and gastric troubles may also be present. An inclination to take drugs or excessive alcohol may be seen among individuals requiring homeopathic medicine Nux Vomica.

8. Aurum Met – For Stress causing Pessimism

Aurum Met is indicated medicine for stress in people who have pessimistic thinking about life.
The person needing Aurum Met is always unhappy and thinks life is a burden. He/She develops a weariness towards life and feels hopeless. Suicidal thoughts, a longing for death, anger from contradictions, palpitations with sleepiness, and fatigue of the limbs are other symptoms.

Health Issues Triggered by Stress

Stress can contribute to many health problems. When left untreated or unmanaged, chronic stress can lead to hair fall, digestive issues, skin problems, weight gain and other serious problems like heart diseases, hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and reproductive issues.

1. Stress and Heart Disease

The link between heart disease and stress is not yet clearly understood. However, it is known that stress contributes to many changes in the body that collectively work and increase the risk for heart disease. These changes resulting from stress include an increase in blood pressure, worsening of high cholesterol, thickening of the blood, damage to the lining of blood vessels, and atherosclerosis. Other contributing factors include alcohol, smoking, overeating, and doing less exercise due to stress.

2. Stress and High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Stress does tend to cause an increase in the blood pressure due to the rise of the hormones adrenaline and cortisol. However, this increase in blood pressure is temporary, and it drops down to normal levels once the stressful condition is over. The exact link between stress and long-term hypertension is not known, but it is possible that frequent rising and falling of blood pressure due to stress may add up over time, and lead to chronic hypertension. Along with this, if a person consumes alcohol, tobacco, or starts overeating, these factors can contribute to chronic hypertension.

3. Stress and Diabetes

Chronic stress carries a risk of contributing to the development of type 2 diabetes. Stress may lead to unhealthy lifestyle habits like lack of exercise, smoking, changing eating habits, alcohol intake, etc. All these factors put a person at risk for developing diabetes. Stress causes long-term activation of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis (a complex set of interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and the adrenal glands) and the sympathetic nervous system. These lead to the development of abdominal obesity and further increase the risk of diabetes.

4. Stress and Obesity

During a stressful situation, the hormone cortisol is released. This hormone is known to increase the appetite, and increase the cravings for sugary and fatty foods. This can increase the belly fat and cause obesity over time.

5. Stress and Digestive Complaints

Stress can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract ( GIT ). The process of digestion slows down during stress. Stress can also cause inflammation in the GIT, acid reflux, diarrhea, constipation and bloating. It is also a leading predisposing factor for IBS – irritable bowel syndrome and tends to worsen peptic ulcers.

6. Stress and Reproductive Problems

In males, stress can lead to weak erections or impotence. In females, stress can lead to low libido, severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and intense symptoms during menopause. In pregnant women, the chances of a premature birth increase if the woman is stressed.

7. Stress and Hair Fall

Stress can lead to hair fall by triggering conditions like telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, and trichotillomania. In the case of telogen effluvium, stress makes hair follicles to go into a resting phase. The affected hair falls out in bunches upon combing or washing.
Stress can also cause hair loss in spots (alopecia areata) by triggering an autoimmune response.
Trichotillomania is a condition where a person has an irresistible desire to pull out hair from eyebrows, scalp, and other areas of the body as a result of stress.

8. Stress and Skin Complaints

Stress can trigger many skin complaints and cause flare-ups. Acne is one of the most common skin conditions triggered by stress. Stress boosts the levels of the hormone cortisol. This leads to an increase in the production of oil, making the skin more prone towards acne. Stress can also trigger or flare up an autoimmune response linked to skin complaints like vitiligo and psoriasis. Apart from these, eczema and acne rosacea also tend to flare up due to stress.

Classification of Stress

Stress can be divided into three types – acute stress, episodic acute stress, and chronic stress.

Acute stress
It is short-term stress and is also the most common type of stress. In acute stress, the body immediately reacts to a new challenge or an event. For example, giving a speech to a group of people, an argument with someone, or being stuck in a traffic jam can trigger acute stress. The symptoms of acute stress include increased heart rate, anxiety, shortness of breath, palpitation of the heart, increased sweat, tension headache and tensed muscles in the neck and back.

Episodic Acute Stress
Episodic acute stress is the condition where acute stress occurs on a very frequent basis. Anxious personalities and people who tend to think negatively most of the time are at an increased risk to suffer from episodic acute stress. The symptoms of episodic acute stress include tension headaches, migraines, depression, chronic fatigue, hypertension, and irritability.

Chronic Stress
The stress that is persistent and lasts for a long time is known as chronic stress. Chronic stress occurs due to a variety of reasons, like unhealthy relationships, poverty, unsatisfactory job/career. Persons with chronic stress are at a high risk to develop conditions like heart disease, stroke, cancer or to commit suicide.

Stress Management

Apart from homeopathy, the following tips can help manage stress:

– Adopting relaxing techniques like yoga, meditation

– Taking a healthy diet including fresh fruits, vegetables, and omega three fatty acids

– Doing regular exercise

– Getting enough sleep

– Avoiding taking alcohol, drugs, and tobacco

– Cutting down the amount of sugar and caffeine intake

– Deep breathing exercises

– Maintaining a positive attitude towards life

– Taking time to cultivate some relaxing hobbies

Homeopathic Treatment for Chronic Lyme Disease

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 22 Comments

Lyme disease, also known as ‘Lyme borreliosis’ is a tick-borne, infectious disease which is caused by a bacteria. It spreads from the bite from ticks infected by the bacterium. It is caused by the bacteria (of the type borrelia) known as Borrelia burgdoferi. The bacteria travel through the infected site to the central bloodstream and settle into various body tissues, causing different symptoms within the body. A person can also experience autoimmune activity triggered by this bacterium if Lyme disease is not treated correctly, and it can lead to chronic lifelong symptoms. Homeopathic treatment for Lyme disease helps moderate the immune system and helps reduce the severity of the symptoms caused by the bacteria.

Lyme Disease: Symptoms

Medically, Lyme disease in a person develops in three phases:

First Stage

Early Localized Infection – It occurs within three to 30 days after the bite of an infected tick that transmits the infection. In this stage the, the infection is limited to the area of tick bite on the skin, and it does not spread in the body.

Erythema Chronicum Migrans (EM): It refers to outwardly expanding rash which occurs at the site of the bite of a tick. The rash is red and painless. The rash appears like a bull’s eye which is characterized as the innermost portion which remains dark red and indurated (firmer and thicker), the outer portion remains red, and the area in between both portions is clear. 70 – 80 % of the infected people represent with EM in early infection. 20 – 30 % of people can have Lyme disease without the EM rash.
EM is the hallmark of Lyme disease.

Flu-like Symptoms: The rash is often accompanied by fever, malaise, headache, muscular soreness and swollen lymph nodes.

Second Stage

Early Disseminated Infection – After the onset of local infection, within a span of days to weeks, the bacteria (Borrelia) begin to travel through the bloodstream.
EM rash may start to develop at various other sites of the body (apart from the original tick bite site).

Borrelia lymphocytoma: It is a purple colored lump that develops on the earlobe, nipple or scrotum. This skin condition is found in Lyme disease sufferers of Europe but is absent in North American patients.

Neuroborreliosis: It refers to acute neurological issues that appear in approximately 10-15 % of untreated people. The symptoms include facial palsy (loss of muscle tone of one or both sides of the face), meningitis which can cause severe headaches, a stiffness of neck and sensitivity to light, inflammation of nerve roots of the spinal cord, mild encephalitis which can lead to disturbance in sleep, mood changes or memory loss.

The adverse impact of this disease is the disturbance of the electrical conduction system of the heart leading to an abnormality of heart rhythms such as Atrioventricular block (AV block).

Third Stage

Late disseminated infection – Also termed as chronic Lyme disease or post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS), t includes symptoms of Lyme disease as a result of the immune response of the affected tissues of the body towards borrelia bacteria. In this stage, the infection spreads entirely throughout the body.
Untreated or inadequately treated Lyme disease patients can develop chronic or severe symptoms after several months of onset of this disease. These symptoms involve many parts of the body including the brain, joints, eyes, nerves, and heart.

Late disseminated infection includes:

Fatigue: The hallmark of chronic Lyme disease is a feeling of tiredness. Muscle aches and constant severe headache often accompany the fatigue. The fatigue can linger for many years. The symptoms can mimic chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia. (1)

Polyneuropathy: Patients experience shooting pains, numbness and tingling sensation in the hands and feet.

Lyme Encephalopathy: This includes neurologic symptoms. 5 % of untreated patients experience neurologic symptoms that involve insomnia (lack of sleep), cognitive difficulties, personality changes and a general feeling of being unwell, chronic fatigue and lethargy.

Chronic encephalomyelitis: It can be a progressive issue and affected person deal with:

Cognitive difficulties
Migraines
Brain fog
Issues in balancing
Weakness of legs
Bladder issues
Vertigo
Pain in back

Psychosis: A rare occurrence in untreated Lyme disease cases, it refers to an abnormal condition of mind in which a person has false beliefs and sees or hears things that others do not see.
The patient can also experience anxiety and panic attacks along with delusional behavior accompanied by derealisation or depersonalization syndrome (the person feels being detached from oneself or reality).

Acrodermatitis Chronic Atrophicans (ACA): ACA is a chronic skin condition and has been noticed in elderly people in Europe. ACA starts as a reddish-blue patch of discolored skin, mainly on the back of feet or hands. The lesion starts becoming thin and wrinkled over several weeks or months. If not treated properly, it can become hairless and dry.

Lyme Arthritis: Arthritis in Lyme disease mainly affects the knees. In some people, it can involve other joints like elbows, wrists, hips, ankles, and shoulders. There is swelling of the affected joint with pain which is mild to moderate in intensity. There are chances of formation of Baker’s cyst (fluid-filled cyst behind the knee) which can rupture. Joint erosions are also seen in some cases.

Homeopathic Treatment for Lyme Disease

Homeopathic medicines for Lyme disease are selected according to the most prominent symptoms of the disease. These medicines help moderate the immune system and offer a natural treatment for Lyme Disease. There are no side effects of homeopathic treatment and it is safe for use in people of all ages.
The most commonly indicated medicines for Lyme disease in the conventional system of treatment are antibiotics- oral or intravenous, which are often prescribed for several weeks. Side effects related to intravenous antibiotics include lowering of white blood cells and mild to severe diarrhea.
Although some patients may require corticosteroids, painkillers, NSAIDs, and muscle relaxants in acute cases, these medications do not work long-term.
In cases of chronic Lyme disease, continued use of these medicines can give rise to side effects like loss of appetite and digestion issues, lowering of blood pressure, mental symptoms such as poor memory and mental fogginess, body pain and numbness.

Homeopathic Medicines for Lyme Disease

Arsenicum Album – Homeopathic Treatment for Lyme Disease with Chronic Fatigue

The homeopathic medicine Arsenicum album is a metal-based remedy which is prepared from Arsenic. Arsenicum album is prepared by isolating arsenic from various metals, such as cobalt, nickel, and iron. Highly diluted arsenic preparations are used to make of Arsenicum album. It is a well-indicated remedy for weakness and body fatigue in Lyme disease. Characteristic of this remedy includes a marked weakness and extreme restlessness. It is also indicated in cases of Lyme disease when there are tearing pains in the limbs, which gets worse during the night and while the person is at rest after exertion. There is a sudden decrease in strength during the second stage of Lyme disease, which is well indicative of this remedy.

Key indications for using Arsenicum Album for Lyme Disease:

– Fatigue
– Extreme Restlessness
– Tearing Pains

Ledum Palustre – Homeopathic Treatment for Lyme Disease with Skin Rash

The homeopathic medicine Ledum palustre is prepared from Ledum, also known as marsh tea. Ledum or wild rosemary is a herb which is found in the marshlands all over the United States, Canada, and northern Europe. The fresh herb is dried and then powdered to prepare this remedy. Ledum belongs to the family Ericaceae.
Ledum is known for its antiseptic properties and is useful in preventing infections. Ledum palustre is a well-indicated remedy for insect stings, including tick bites. It is also indicated for a twitching sensation around skin rash. The area of the tick bite is cold to the touch.

Key indications for using Ledum Palustre for Lyme Disease:

– Tick Bite
-Twitching Sensation around the rash

Rhus Toxicodendron – Homeopathic Treatment for Lyme disease with Arthritis

The homeopathic medicine Rhus tox is prepared from poison ivy- a vine-like shrub. This shrub is found naturally all over North America and belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. The leaves and stalks of this shrub are collected at night to prepare Rhus Toxicodendron. Rhus tox has given tremendous results in arthritis, especially of knee joints in Lyme disease patients. There is stiffness and painful swelling of the knee joint which becomes better by warmth. It is also indicated for joint problems in the elbows and ankles in some instances of Lyme disease. A tingling sensation in feet and other places of the body is also treated with this remedy.

Key Indications for using Rhus Tox for Lyme Disease

– Knee Joint Arthritis
– Tingling Sensation

Belladonna – Homeopathic Treatment for Lyme disease with Constant Headache

The homeopathic medicine Belladonna is prepared from the Belladonna plant. Belladonna plant is also known by other names such as nightshade, devil’s cherry, and Atropa belladonna. It is a herbaceous plant, and it belongs to the Solanaceae family. Belladonna is a perennial plant and is found in Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. The entire belladonna plant is used to prepare the belladonna medicine. Belladonna is a top graded medicine for migraine in patients of chronic Lyme disease. The headache is pulsating and throbbing in character. There is a feeling of extreme fullness in the head. Noise and light seem to worsen the headache of Lyme disease patients. Cold air, head bath with cold water acts as aggravating (increasing) factor for the migraine. Applying hard pressure on the head helps relieve the pain.

Kali Phosphoricum – Homeopathic medicine for Brain fog in chronic Lyme Disease

Kali phosphoricum is a well-indicated remedy for patients of Lyme disease where there is mental fatigue from overwork. There is dullness of mind, loss of memory, a lack of interest in talking and the person suffers from forgetfulness. The characteristic symptom of using this remedy is a low, nervous condition with sensitivity. The person is easily fatigued.

Aconitum Napellus – Homeopathic Treatment for Lyme Disease with Anxiety and Palpitations

The homeopathic medicine Aconitum napellus is prepared from the herb called aconite, also known as Monkshood. The aconite herb belongs to the family Ranunculaceae. The whole plant, leaving the root. is used to prepare Aconitum. This herb is indigenous to the region from the Himalayas to Europe. As a remedy, Aconite is recommended for Lyme disease patients when they suffer from anxiety as a result of chronic effects of this disease. Patients go into a state of mental and emotional shock and experience a fear of death. Panic attacks and shock, restlessness and inconsolable anxiety, tachycardia (heart rate that exceeds the normal resting rate) with palpitations, fainting palpitations with tingling in fingers and palpitations from motion and pulse are other symptoms that call for this remedy.

Conium – Homeopathic Treatment for Lyme Disease with Vertigo

The homeopathic medicine Conium is prepared from the hemlock plant. This plant is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant and belongs to the Apiaceae family. The plant originally belongs to Europe, particularly Britain, Africa and different regions of Asia. The leaves, roots and flowering stems of the hemlock plant are used to prepare Conium. The curative effects of Conium are seen in cases of Vertigo especially in Lyme disease (in the later stages of the disease).
Vertigo appears as a sensation where the person looking steadily at an object feels like the object is spinning.
Vertigo upon rising, or going down the stairs may be present, along with weakness and an inclination to sleep. There is numb feeling in the brain as if stupefied, which gets worse upon turning over in bed.

Thuja – Homeopathic Treatment for Delusions as a result of Lyme Disease

The homeopathic medicine Thuja is prepared by using the leaves and twigs of the thuja plant. Thuja tree belongs to the Cupressaceae family. Out of five, two species of Thuja trees are found in North America and the remaining three species are found growing in eastern regions of Asia. Thuja is a well-indicated remedy for delusions and has given good results in Lyme disease patients who have fixed ideas and delusions in later part of the disease. Delusions as if a strange person is by the side and delusions as if the body were fragile are present. There is dullness of mind with sadness. The person feels depressed, isolated and alone.

How to Distinguish Lyme Disease from Fibromyalgia?

Both fibromyalgia and Lyme disease can cause fatigue and pain, but there are many differences between them
The cause for fibromyalgia is not clear, but it is related to genetic factors, often triggered by stress (physical or emotional stress), and associated conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Ankylosing spondylitis. Fibromyalgia gives rise to widespread pain and tender points, body fatigue, depression, headache, pain, and cramping in the lower abdominal region.

Lyme disease, on the other hand, is an infectious tick-borne disease caused by the bacteria of borrelia type. After the bite of the tick, the bacteria penetrate into the bloodstream and trigger symptoms inside the body. Symptoms of Lyme disease include a headache, chill, fever, swelling of lymph nodes and a rash called Erythema migrans. As the condition takes the chronic form, there are chances of developing arthritis, nerve involvement leading to numbness or tingling sensation, depression, anxiety, palpitations and short-term memory loss.

Although symptoms overlap between Fibromyalgia and Lyme disease, these diseases are distinguished by the presence of a rash which is a hallmark of Lyme disease (called Erythema Migrans). There is no such rash in fibromyalgia.

Chronic Lyme Disease: Causes and Transmission

The causative agent of Lyme disease is bacteria. The main type of bacteria causing Lyme disease in the United States are Borrelia burgdoferi and Borrelia mayonii. In Europe and Asia, Borrelia afzelii and Borrelia garinii are the causative bacteria. The primary vector for transmitting the bacteria to humans in Lyme disease is an infected black-legged or deer tick. Ticks which are frequently found on deer carry the bacterium in their stomach and transmit it to humans when they bite. People working in grassy and heavily wooded areas are more prone to get Lyme disease.
Lyme disease is not contagious.

Ticks crawl over your clothes or body for many hours before they get attached to your skin. Ticks are usually found in the scalp, groin or armpits, but they can attach to any part of your body. It takes at least 36 to 48 hours for an infected tick to pass bacteria to the body once it is attached to the skin. Most ticks cause infection in the nymphal stage (immature form of ticks, before larval stage) since they are very small in this stage and feed for a longer duration of time before they are detected.

Lyme Disease: Risk Factors

Exposure to wooded or grassy areas: Deer ticks thrive in wooded areas of Midwest and the northeastern region of the United States. Children and Adults with outdoor occupation working in these areas are at a high risk of contracting Lyme disease.

Not removing ticks properly after exposure: For transmission of bacteria from an infected tick to the human body, the tick needs to be attached to the body for at least 36 to 48 hours. The chances of developing Lyme disease grow low if the tick is removed within two days of exposure.

Lyme Disease: Complications

Lyme disease can cause permanent damage to the joints, brain, nervous system and heart. Significant complications of Lyme disease include increased risk of developing an autoimmune form of arthritis, as a result of chronic Lyme disease (even after the treatment) which includes:
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Psoriatic Arthritis
Peripheral spondyloarthritis

Lyme Disease: Management

Prevention is the most important step when it comes to Lyme Disease. Some preventive measures include:

Use insect repellent and bug sprays.
Use tweezers to remove ticks even if your body is exposed to ticks.

Dealing with Lyme Disease:

Since in the later stages Lyme disease takes the autoimmune form, the best way to manage chronic Lyme disease is by boosting your immune system.

Sleep and Management of Emotional Stress:

Stress triggers inflammation and disturbs the hormonal balance of the body. One should get enough sleep (at least 6 to 8 hours per day) and avoid stress to improve body functioning.

Foods to Eat

Consume anti-inflammatory foods like vegetables, nuts, and seeds, and antioxidant-rich foods like green leafy vegetables and berries.
Foods rich in probiotics (like yogurt) help to reduce the progression of Lyme disease.

Supplements
Supplements to improve cell functioning include:

Vitamin D3 – It helps to boost the immunity, and so supplements rich in vitamin D3 should be a part of the daily diet.

Omega -3 Fatty Acids – These fatty acids play an anti-inflammatory role and improve cognitive functions. Fish-oil supplements should be taken daily.

How to Get Rid Of Boils With Homeopathic Medicines

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 604 Comments

Boils are a form of skin infection that starts in the hair follicles causing pus-filled lumps. First, redness of the skin occurs, leading to the development of a tender lump or nodule. Within a week’s time, it turns white as the pus cells collect under the skin. The pain keeps on growing until the boil ruptures and drains. The swollen area on the surface is caused by an accumulation of pus and dead tissue. Some people try to squeeze or prick boils, which should be strictly avoided.

Homeopathy offers magnificent treatment for cases of boils. A well-indicated homeopathic remedy can help minimise the progression of infection beside controlling the inflammation and relieving pain, redness, tenderness in the affected area and hastening pus discharge to aid prompt recovery. Homeopathy works to boost the immune system to fight with the infection and serve as a natural treatment option for boils. With homeopathic medicines, the dependency on antibiotic use can be reduced to a large extent. Opting for its timely use also helps to prevent surgical intervention in most of the cases.

Effective at all stages

Homeopathic medicine for boils can be used at any stage of the development of the boil. For example, homeopathic remedy Belladonna can help combat the pain and inflammation, while Silicea can reduce the pus. There are specific medications available to treat boils on different parts of the body as well.

Helpful for acute, chronic and recurrent cases

Not just acute cases, homeopathy works wonders in treating chronic, recurrent boils as well. It raises the immunity of the body to make it less susceptible to infection. As a result, the frequency and intensity of the problem gradually decreases. The set of medicines in homeopathy to treat acute and chronic, recurrent cases of boils are a little different and the potency and dosage varies from case to case.

Safe medicines with zero side effects

As homeopathic medicines are sourced from natural substances, they are 100% safe with zero side effects. These medicines are used in highly diluted doses that work gently to bring natural recovery. Persons of any age group may opt for its use.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Boils

The 7 top recommended homeopathic medicines for treating boils are Silicea, Myristica, Hepar Sulph, Sulphur, Calcarea Sulph, Belladonna and Arsenic Album.

1. Silicea – Top Grade Homeopathic Medicine For Boils

Silicea is one of the best homeopathic medicines to deal with cases of boils. It is indicated when there is pus discharge from boil that can be scanty or excessive. It is thin pus. The color may be a little brownish at times. It has a very foul smell. It also works well in cases where crops of boils form that do not heal quickly (and sting when touched).

When to use Silicea?

Silicea is the most prominently indicated medicine to treat boils with foul-smelling pus discharge.

How to use Silicea?

In most cases, Silicea is used in 6X potency that can be repeated 3 to 4 times a day as per case severity.

2. Myristica – To Hasten Pus Discharge

Myristica has strong antiseptic properties and it proves highly effective in treating several suppurative (pus forming) conditions including boils. This medicine shows wonderful action to hasten the suppuration process and cut short the recovery period. It is used extensively to avoid any surgical process to get rid of boils.

When to use Myristica?

This medicine is highly suggested to hasten recovery and prevent surgical intervention in cases of boils.

How to use Myristica?

It works well in both low and high potency. To start with, 30C potency is usually preferred that can be taken once or twice a day.

3. Hepar Sulph – For Boils That Are Painful And Tender

Hepar Sulph is a homeopathic medicine used to treat conditions when the skin is unhealthy and tends to form pus on the slightest injury. It is recommended in cases where boils are highly painful and sensitive to touch. Large boils with multiple openings with discharge that smells offensive may be present. When given in the early stages of pus formation, this medicine can stop the formation of pus.

When to use Hepar Sulph?

Hepar Sulph is a leading medicine to help cases of boils that are very painful and sensitive to touch.

How to use Hepar Sulph?

The potency of this medicine differs from case to case from low to high. Low potencies like 30C can be taken two to three times a day. Use of high potency like 200C is limited to once a day.

4. Belladonna – For Boils In The First Stage Of Development

Belladonna is an excellent homeopathic medicine that is prescribed in the first stage of the boils when there is no pus formation. Red and hot swelling of the affected part, sensitivity to touch, and sudden spreading of the boils are the main symptoms. The color of the skin may turn blue in the later stage.

When to use Belladonna?

It is a well indicated medicine for managing boils in initial stages with marked redness, heat and swelling.

How to use Belladonna?

Its use is preferred in 30C power that can be taken twice or thrice a day as per intensity of the problem.

5. Sulphur – Homeopathic Medicine For Recurrent Boils

Boils that develop recurrently and periodically (chronic tendency) are treated well with Sulphur. Its use is suggested for cases where there is a slow maturation of boils that usually come in crops and occur on various parts of the body, developing in quick succession one after the other.

When to use Sulphur?

Sulphur is a great choice of medicine to treat cases having recurrent tendency to get boils.

How to use Sulphur?

It is available in different potencies from low to high potency, initially it is advised to take it in 30C potency once or twice in a week.

6. Arsenic Album – Homeopathic Medicine For Boils With Excessive Burning

Arsenic album is a specific remedy for boils with burning pain. The boils tend to occur in different parts of the body. There is low-grade fever with the occurrence of boils. A thin discharge from the boils is present, and there can be multiple boils.

When to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine is opted to manage boils attended with burning type of pains.

How to use Arsenic Album?

To begin with one may use its 30C potency once a day.

7. Calcarea Sulph – Homeopathic Medicine for Boils with Thick Yellow Discharge

Calcarea Sulph is a homeopathic remedy used to treat boils having a characteristic thick, lumpy, and yellow pus discharge. Crops of boils tend to appear recurrently. One boil is preceded by the occurrence of another, even when the older one hasn’t healed.

When to use Calcarea Sulph?

This medicine is prescribed when the boils have thick, yellow pus discharge.

How to use Calcarea Sulph?

Most of the time its 6X potency is considered that can be used two to three times a day.

Causes of Boils

Boils are mainly caused by infection with bacteria – Staphylococcus Aureus. It is a bacterium which is most commonly found on our skin and inside the nose. It can enter the skin from cuts or wounds and travel down to infect and inflame one or more hair follicles, resulting in boils.

Infection

The presence of any foreign particle under the skin (that has made its way from cuts, wounds or insect bites) can lead to an infection, which causes inflammation under the skin and leads to the development of a boil.

An infection in the sweat glands can clog the glands and cause the development of a boil.

Ingrown Hair

Sometimes, boils can be caused by an ingrown hair under the skin. This can cause localized inflammation. Ingrown hair grow out of the skin, but then curl back and re-enter the skin. The hair follicle can also be clogged with dead skin cells, which forces the hair to grow inwards.

Certain factors increase the risk of boils. These may include diabetes mellitus, obesity, malnutrition, chemicals that irritate the skin, cuts or wounds that don’t heal readily or are not kept clean and covered, any other skin condition that causes excessive itching resulting in damage to the skin’s protective barrier like acne, eczema etc which can predispose an individual to get boils, use of medicines that weaken the immune system including cortisone medications or immune-suppressants, close contact with someone having staphylococcus infection and a family history.

Sites Affected

Boils can appear almost anywhere on the body. They most commonly occur in the areas where there is a production of sweat, or where there is friction. Such sites usually involve the:

Face

Neck and Shoulders

Armpits (Axilla)

Chest and Back

Arms and Legs

Buttocks and Thighs

Anus

On gums (Where they are called Gumboil)

Boils: Signs and Symptoms

Stages of Boils

First Stage: The infection begins, leading to the inflammation of the affected. It usually occurs suddenly.

Second Stage: A bumpy, red, hard growth appear on the skin.

Third Stage: Localized formation of pus under the skin around the hair follicle.

Fourth Stage: The development of boil progresses to a yellow or white centered elevated lump filled with pus. This is visible when the boil is ready to drain and discharge the pus.

Size of the Boils

The size of a boil can range from being pea-sized to the size of a golf-ball.

Pain in the Boils

The pain (if any) in a boil can range from mild to moderate but can become severe in case of complications. The frequency and intensity of the pain can vary from patient to patient. The pain can be sharp, stitching, throbbing or burning in character.

Warm Sensation in the Boils

The area affected can be warm to the touch. In fact, the sensation of warmth can be felt by anyone examining the affected part.

Mild Fever due to Boils

In some cases, the person may have a mild fever that develops with the appearance of boils.

Tenderness

Boils can be extremely painful to touch, but the intensity and character of pain are different in each case.

Number of Boils

Boils can be singular or appear in the form of clusters. The connected area of infection under the skin usually results in the formation of a group of boils known as a carbuncle. Carbuncles generally cause severe infections and adverse effects, leaving scars behind. Areas like the neck, shoulder, and thighs are more commonly affected.

What Causes Autism? Understanding The Reasons Causing Autism

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 20 Comments

Autism is a developmental and neurological disorder which occurs in during early childhood. While nobody exactly knows the reason for it, with years of research and studies we have been able to figure out the various known factors that can be the causes of autism. Out of these, the most common ones include genetics, vaccinations, ante-natal and perinatal factors, environmental factors, gut issues and some theories that suggest the role of heavy metals. However, we still cannot rule out any specific causes of autism and mostly rely on these probable factors that could have contributed to the risk of developing Autism. Understanding these factors has given some idea as to how they increase the tendency of a child to develop autism.

Genetic Causes of Autism

Genes seem to have a significant influence in developing Autism. Studies do suggest that autism has a strong connection with the genetic variation and heritability. Various genotypes have been related to cause autism. The fact that it is more common in identical twins gives us substantial evidence of the role of genes in causing autism. Also, if there is any known case in the family, the chances of having autism is higher in the other kids.
A consanguineous marriage (Married in blood relation) increases the probability of having autism, indicating the role of similar genetic coding as an important factor. In the genetic study of kids having autism, we have seen certain gene mutations are commonly found and are known to cause developmental, cognitive and intellectual disorders.

There are various chromosomal duplications or deletions which are related to Autism. Some of the common genetic mutations found in autism are:

fragile x
22q13 deletion
1q21.1 microdeletion
chromosome 18 deletion (Distal 18q deletion syndrome)
chromosome 15 deletion (15q13.3 microdeletion)
chromosome 15 duplication (Duplication of 15q11-13 chromosome region) Chromosome 22 duplication, etc.

Most of these chromosomal mutations are known to cause intellectual disabilities, delayed development, learning disabilities, seizures, microcephaly or behavioral issues in children. Genetic screening is therefore advised in a majority of the cases of autism to rule out the presence of any such genetic mutations. If present, genetic testing for both the parents is conducted to find similar genetic changes in either or both the parents. Also, a history of Down’s syndrome has been found in cases of autism.

History of certain psychiatric disorders like depression is commonly seen in the family of kids with autism. Also, kids with autism spectrum are at high risk of developing depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxiety. So, the genes that make an individual vulnerable to develop a psychiatric disorder might also have some role to play.
Also, there are many cases where we do not find any genetic mutations or known case of autism in the family. Further research work is still being carried out to find a definitive analysis of the role of genes in autism.

Vaccinations

There is a strong relationship observed between vaccines and the onset of autism. Sometimes, parents report a regression in the child after a vaccination shot. However, it is unclear what exactly is the role of vaccinations in autism. The most common vaccine that has been a suspected cause of autism is the MMR vaccine. It is a trivalent vaccination preserved in a mercury-based solution and is used against Measles-mumps-rubella virus. The mercury base of this vaccine is also thought to cause autism. Thimerosal is a mercury-based preservative found in many vaccinations. This heavy metal seems to have some toxic effect on the central nervous system (CNS) and increases the risk of autism. In the United States, vaccinations are now being prepared without the mercury or lead-base preservative. There are still some doubts that vaccines do increase the risk of autism in children. But many studies suggest that autism is more common in kids who received vaccination rather than in those who did not.

Pregnancy-Related Causes of Autism

Some conditions if present during pregnancy can increase the probability of Autism developing in the child. However, it is uncertain how significant a role these factors play in the development of autism. But there are certain conditions which are frequently found in the gestational history of autism cases. Below are some of those common complications or conditions:

Infections during Pregnancy

Infections like German measles or cytomegalovirus if present during pregnancy increases the risk of autism in the child.

Rubella

Also known as German measles, it can lead to some serious side effects on the baby’s development if a pregnant woman gets infected with it during pregnancy. The infected female might show some flu-like symptoms, for example, a low-grade fever, runny nose, headache, redness of eyes or joint pains. A rash usually follows these flu-like symptoms. It can cause some serious effects on the unborn baby, like congenital rubella syndrome, microcephaly, vision problems, premature baby, miscarriage, or stillbirth. The baby may also be born with some birth defects.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

It is a virus which is only carried by humans. Females infected with it mostly do not show any major symptoms, while some might complain of fever, swollen glands, cough or cold. Therefore, it is usually confirmed by the CMV test which is always recommended during pregnancy. CMV might not always have a significant impact on the baby, but in some cases, it can lead to a poor hearing, poor vision and also cause intellectual impairment in the baby.

Gestational Diabetes

When a female develops diabetes (high blood sugar levels) during pregnancy, it is called gestational diabetes. It might not directly lead to autism, but its effects and consequences and can make the baby prone to develop autism. If a mother has diabetes, it can cause hypoxia, growth abnormalities, and the baby can be too large for the gestational age (This can increase the risk of having an assisted/instrumental delivery like vacuum/forceps or C-Section). It can also cause intra-uterine growth retardation and also makes the mother vulnerable to have premature labor. It can trigger the production of excessive insulin by the pancreas of the baby and causes hypoglycemia.
Gestational diabetes also commonly causes depression in pregnant females. A newborn can develop hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) and hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels). If the diabetes is not controlled during pregnancy, it can also lead to respiratory distress syndrome in the child.

Thyroid during Pregnancy

Having thyroid disorders during pregnancy is very common, and it is not mandatory that the child will develop some developmental issues because of it. However, it is one of the contributing factors which might increase the risk of intra-uterine growth retardation, miscarriage, preterm delivery or low IQ levels of the child. Also, there is some association of thyroxine deficiency which produces changes in the brain of the unborn baby and makes him vulnerable to develop autism.

Usage of Certain Drugs

There have been some drugs identified, whose usage during pregnancy can increase the probability of having autism in the babies. Some of these drugs include anti-epileptic medicine, anti-depressants, and drugs used to prevent premature labor. There is no proven evidence that they do cause autism but it has been observed that their administration increases the risk of autism by three folds. The risk of developing autism is higher especially if the baby is exposed to these drugs during the last months of pregnancy.

Age of Mother at Conception

It is commonly seen that if a woman conceives after or around the age of 40 years, the child is at a higher risk of developing Autism or other developmental issues. Teenage pregnancy is also related to increasing the risk of autism in the child.

Twin-Pregnancy

Autism is commonly seen in the cases of twin or multiple pregnancies. Gene studies show that there is some relation between twin pregnancy and autism. Autism is especially more common in identical twins than in fraternal twins.

Other conditions

Some other conditions which can increase the risk of autism include depression during pregnancy, oligohydramnios (reduced amniotic fluid), obesity in mothers, smoking, un-natural mode of conception like ovulation therapy, IVF. These factors have been identified in diagnosed cases of autism as a part of the history of pregnancy.

Complications at Birth

Any condition which can cause fetal distress or delay the initial oxygen supply to the brain can be a factor predisposing the child to develop Autism or other developmental delays later. Many conditions are a part of the birth history which are related to autism.

Contributory Conditions

Meconium Aspiration

When a neonate aspirates (breathes in) the stool at the time of birth, it is called Meconium aspiration.
Risk factors for Meconium aspiration include difficult or prolonged labor, post-maturity or advanced gestation age, or if the mother is a smoker. The aspiration of Meconium leads to the obstruction of airways of the fetus. If the aspiration is for a long duration, it causes increased lung resistance, acute Hypoxemia, fetal hypoxia, infection and pulmonary inflammation. The hypoxia at time of birth can lead to autism or other developmental disorders in the child. It also leads to a syndrome commonly known as Meconium Aspiration Syndrome.

Symptoms of Meconium Aspiration include:

Bluish/greenish discoloration of the baby
Problems with breathing
Low APGAR SCORE
Low heart rate

Hypoxia (Reduced oxygen supply) to the brain

There are various complications at the time of birth that can cause reduced or delayed oxygen supply to the brain of the newborn baby.
This delay in oxygen supply can lead to some significant developmental delays in the child.

Prolonged/Obstructed Labor

Prolonged labor that lasts very long can cause fetal distress, reduction in the fetal heart sound, or hypoxia.

Assisted Delivery

Assisted deliveries that make use of a vacuum pump, or a forceps delivery can be other reasons leading to reduced oxygen supply to the brain. They can also affect the head circumference of the neonate at birth.

Delayed Birth Cry

Another significant sign which indicates reduced or delayed oxygen supply to the brain at birth is a delayed birth cry. It is a critical factor and must be ruled out in every case of autism.

Umbilical Cord Around Neck

An umbilical cord wrapped around a baby’s neck in case of a standard vaginal delivery can have a suffocating effect, again causing fetal distress or reduced oxygen supply.

Hypoglycemia at Birth

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels, while neonatal hypoglycemia refers to a temporary drop in blood sugar in infants. It usually occurs at birth or within the first few days after birth. It is one of the common causes of brain injury in infants. The source of glucose during pregnancy is through the placenta, and after birth, it is the breast milk. The liver of the infant also produces a certain amount of glucose. The brain uses sugar or glucose for building up tissues and is an essential source of energy.

Causes of Hypoglycemia

Premature babies
Kids born to diabetic mother are vulnerable to develop it
Production of excess insulin
Lack of an adequate amount of breast milk being fed to the baby
Insufficient glucose being produced by the baby
Intra-uterine growth Retardation
Congenital metabolic syndrome
Hypoxia at birth

Symptoms of Hypoglycemia

Bluish discoloration of skin or Cyanosis
Loose muscle tone
Breathing issues, it may be fast, or there may be apnea
Vomiting
Weak cry
Low body temperature

If continued for a longer duration, hypoglycemia can result in neurological damage and can also cause any of the following severe conditions:

Epilepsy or seizures
Brain damage
Cerebral Palsy
Developmental disorders like Autism
Learning Disabilities
Affects the Cardio-vascular function

Gut-Related Causes of Autism

Gut or gastrointestinal issues are some of the most common disorders associated with autism. There are various gut disorders, food allergies, and deficiencies that have been associated with autism. It is difficult to say if they play the causative role, but they contribute to developing autism. Some of the recent research also suggests the role of gut bacteria. Certain gut disorders related to autism are gluten sensitivity, coeliac disease, leaky gut syndrome, milk allergy, chronic constipation, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome.
Presence of these gut issues in autistic kids can also increase their behavioral problems. Kids with autism respond very effectively to certain diets, which indicates the role of the gut in autism.

Diets that are gluten-free, casein-free or anti-yeast help in controlling behavioral symptoms, sleep patterns, and hyperactivity in autistic children.

Leaky gut syndrome causes chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation also seems to trigger some symptoms of autism. The theory behind it is that chronic inflammation decreases the IgA levels. IgA (antibody immunoglobin A) plays an essential role in protecting the body against yeast infections. Yeast is considered to make the child vulnerable to develop sensory concerns that make the child more hyperactive, sleepless and frustrated.
Deficiencies can also be considered as the contributing factors. Children with autism are commonly to found to be low on iron, B12, magnesium, etc. Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in the manufacture of the myelin sheath (layer on nerves), carbohydrates, and production of neurotransmitters. Low magnesium levels produce symptoms like poor focus and concentration, poor memory issues, tremors, muscle cramps, twitches and generalized seizures.

Heavy Metal Load

Many neurological disorders have been associated with heavy metal toxicity. Exposure to certain heavy metals has been found to increase the risk of autism. Mercury, Lead, Aluminum, and Zinc are the most common ones.
High levels of mercury may cause brain damage and increase the probability of neurodevelopmental delays. It doubles the risk of developing autism.
Mercury is commonly found in various vaccinations as a preservative, especially in hepatitis-B vaccine and MMR.
Fish is also a good source of mercury, eating an excess of fish can also raise mercury levels.
There are also reports that if the mother is exposed to heavy metals or pesticides during pregnancy, it can affect the mental development of the fetus inside the womb.

Seizure / Epilepsy

A seizure is a brain disorder which occurs due to excessive or abnormal neuronal activity in the brain. Epilepsy is a disorder where when one has a tendency of recurrent seizures.
About one-fifth of kids with autism have an associated epileptic history. It can’t be exactly said that epilepsy causes autism or autism increases the chances of epilepsy. But both share some relation.
Kids with epilepsy are more prone to develop autism. And there are some changes in the brain of the autistic kids which predispose them to develop epilepsy or seizures.
A family history of epilepsy is also found in cases of autism, showing some relation between the two. Treating seizures in autism also helps lower the severity of the developmental delays and cognitive symptoms.

There are also some genetic changes associated with autism in which we find epilepsy to be an important feature. A sleep EEG can help detect epileptic activity in children.

Environmental Causes of Autism

Certain environmental conditions like air pollution, extreme cold weathers, and exposure to environmental chemicals during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing autism. Common environmental toxins like herbicides, insecticides or pesticides are harmful to the brain development of the baby in the womb. So, if a female is exposed to all these (especially during the last trimester of pregnancy), the probability of developing autism gets increased.

Hydrastis Canadensis – Homeopathic Medicine – Indications for its use

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 97 Comments

Hydrastis Canadensis is commonly known by the names Goldenseal, Orange Root and Yellow Root . It belongs to the family Ranunculaceae. The thick, yellow rhizome (stem of a plant with nodes) of the herb is used to extract the medicine. It is indigenous to the United States and Canada and was introduced in Europe in the 18th century. It is also widely grown in India.

As a homeopathic remedy, it is primarily used for ailments related to the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, ears, and female organs.

Hydrastis Canadensis: Preparation

The homeopathic remedy Hydrastis Canadensis is prepared from the rhizome of the herb called Goldenseal. For the preparation of the medicine, first, the rhizome is freshly cut, which further undergoes the process of cleaning and chopping. The chopped fragments are then soaked in distilled alcohol for some time, after which it is strained and diluted to the desired degree. It is then subjected to the homeopathic process of Succussion, which is a type of oscillatory process done to obtain the desired potency of the medicine.

The ‘Hydrastis’ Constitution

It is well suited to people who have a feeble constitution and who get easily tired. It also works well for chronic alcoholics who have broken down their system by excess use of alcohol. The skin is generally pale, and the patient is susceptible to contracting jaundice.

Hydrastis Canadensis: Drug Action

The herb has a chemical in it called Berberine, which is known to work against many harmful bacteria and fungi, making it a natural antibiotic medicine.

The drug is known to have its action on the mucous surfaces, mucous glandular surfaces, the nutritive system and the circulatory system.

It is used by herbalists today as an anti-catarrhal, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, bitter tonic, laxative, anti-diabetic and muscular stimulant oxytocic (a medication that accelerates childbirth) and emmenagogue (a medicine that promotes menstrual flow).

Scope of Hydrastis Canadensis as a Homeopathic Remedy

Effect on the Respiratory System

Hydrastis is one of the most effective remedies used in cases of respiratory troubles. It effectively manages problems of Sinusitis, with Post nasal Dripping (PND), inflammation of the mucous passages of the respiratory tract, cough with loose expectoration (expulsion of phlegm), swollen turbinates. When it comes to the nasal passages and sinuses, the mucous membranes are hyperactive and hence secrete more mucus than usual, thereby blocking the nostrils and increasing the discharges.

Hydrastis acts on these membranes and helps in subsiding the inflammation and regulating the mucous secretions. Usually, the main symptom is blocked nostrils, which leads to a discharge of mucus from the back of the nose to the throat (called as PND or post nasal dripping). This discharge is ropey and stringy, thick, yellow or white mucus.

The nostrils are blocked with mucous (especially the posterior part of the nose). Hydrastis can be of help in cases of nasal discharges, where the discharge feels like it is burning and makes the parts sore. Such secretions are scanty when the person is indoors but is excreted when the person steps out.

The crusting forms quickly inside the nose in such cases. A frontal headache accompanies the nasal discharge. There is a swelling of turbinate bones (soft bones in the nasal cavity), so much so that the patient has to breathe through the mouth and there is constant loud snoring at night. A characteristic feature of this medicine is tickling in the nose, especially the right nostril. The patient has recurrent episodes of sneezing, with fullness over the eyes and a dull headache in the frontal region, which descends to the arms.

Hydrastis can be given for bronchitis as well. Bronchitis refers to the inflammation of the bronchial tubes that primarily carry air to the lungs. After the inflammation, there is a constriction of the passage and hence breathing difficulties, which this homeopathic medication can very effectively manage. Such bronchitis attacks, when they occur in elderly people, can be accompanied by a loss of appetite. Hydrastis helps in taking care of that, minimizing the weakness and improving respiration. The characteristic ‘Old Man’s Cough’ calls for this remedy.

In all age groups, when there is tickling in the throat with a dry and harsh cough or when there is a loose cough, which worsens as the day progresses, with a thick, yellow and stringy mucous, Hydrastis can help.

Hydrastis for Ears

In cases where there is a dysfunction of the Eustachian tube, inflammation of the middle ear, with a thick and tenacious discharge (which is more like pus), blockage of the ear with a postnasal discharge, Hydrastis can work well to treat all these symptoms. With these symptoms, there is also a difficulty in hearing, deafness in some; and tinnitus (abnormal noises in the ear), usually a roaring sound. It can be given for perforation of the tympanic membrane, i.e., the eardrum as well.

Effect on the Gastro-Intestinal System

Stomach:
When it comes to gastric ailments, Hydrastis is used in cases where there is a heaviness in the upper left side of the abdomen. The appetite is negligible with an inability to digest food properly.
Hydrastis is a renowned remedy when it comes to carcinoma of the stomach. It acts wonderfully as an intercurrent remedy in such cases, and can effectively manage symptoms when given with conventional medicine. In such cases of cancer of the stomach, the condition initially is generally asymptomatic. Before the disease is diagnosed, usually in the ‘pre-cancerous stage,’ patients typically complain of chronic intermittent pain. They then slowly start losing their strength, the epigastric region becomes sensitive, the appetite decreases with frequent episodes of vomiting. There is indigestion of the food eaten; it feels as if the food simply lies in the abdomen. Constant production of the acid, with sour acidic vomiting and a coated tongue, are some other symptoms.

Liver:
It has been mentioned in the homeopathic literature that Hydrastis can help a lot in cases of inflammation of the lining of the liver and cases of cancer of the liver as well. Even though there is no clinical evidence of a cure, the homeopathic medication Hydrastis can help in managing a few symptoms. The presence of these symptoms is not indicative of cancer. In the region of the liver (that is the upper right abdominal area), there may be a feeling of fullness with a constant, dull pain. There is the development of jaundice, with yellow skin, dark yellow urine and pale stools. The appetite is diminished, breathing is difficult, and it hurts to touch the area of the liver. Along with this, there could be an inflammation of the lining of the gallbladder and bile duct as well.

Rectum:
Hydrastis can take care of chronic constipation as well when the movements of the bowels are sluggish, and hence the stool formation is delayed. The patient skips days when it comes to clearing the bowels, and can only pass the stool after taking laxatives. The stool, when passed, could be in the form of small pellets. There is straining while passing stool, so much so that the rectum starts to burn and ache because of the continuous efforts to empty out the bowels. Sometimes, there is a feeling as if the stool would pass, but when tried, only gas escapes.
Other than this, Hydrastis can be given for cases of hemorrhoids (piles), where the underlying cause could be chronic constipation as discussed or pregnancy. There could be bleeding piles, with significant weakness. There could be offensive haemorrhoidal discharge from the anus, with a burning pain in the anus, during and after each stool.
Hydrastis Canadensis can also be helpful in cases of a fissure in the anal region, with constipation and continuous discharge. Some physicians have also noted excellent results with this remedy in cases of colorectal cancer.

Effect on Female Organs

Hydrastis Canadensis has shown remarkable results in various clinical conditions in females. This remedy can be useful in cases of leucorrhoea, uterine prolapse, uterine fibroids, congestive dysmenorrhoea (pain with menses), pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis (Inflammation of the endometrium), menopausal syndrome, etc.
The remedy has also proven to be beneficial in cases of cancer of the cervix, uterine cancer, and breast cancer. Herein, the epithelium of the cervix and the vagina is eroded, and there is ulcer formation.
When microscopically seen, the membranes are swollen and hardened. Hydrastis can help in maintaining the normal lining of the mucosa, by healing the eroded and ulcerated areas.

Other than this, there is a pain in the lower back along with the uterine complaints. There are hemorrhages from the uterus, menses last too long, and the patient, as a result, becomes weak and anemic. There are sharp pains in the right iliac region (lower right side of the abdomen).
The leucorrhoea, i.e., abnormal vaginal discharge, in such patients is generally very tenacious and thick, yellow in color, and ropey in nature. There is intense itching with the leucorrhoea.

When given for cancer of the breast as an intercurrent (while the disease is progressing) remedy, the pains are very intense and extend up to the shoulders and down the arms. It is given in the scirrhous tumor of the breast, which is a slowly growing, solid, malignant tumor. The breast becomes hard, and adherent to the skin and the nipple is retracted. Along with this, the lymph nodes in the axilla (armpits) are enlarged. In open cancers of the breasts, Hydrastis can help in relieving the constant burning pain, and can also promote healing.

Keynote Indications for the use of Homeopathic medicine Hydrastis

1.Posterior nasal drip: Thick, tenacious from posterior nares to the throat. It si very effective in chronic cases of posterior nasal discharge

2.Eustachian tube catarrh: Eustachian tube catarrh with deafness.

3.Sinusitis: Frontal sinusitis with dull frontal headache; Sinusitis with thick, viscid nasal discharges.

4.Pharyngitis: Follicular pharyngitis with hawking of yellow, viscid mucus.

5.Constipation: Constipation with fissure anus/ prolapse of rectum/headache.

6.Leucorrhoea: Vaginal discharges of acid, tenacious, corroding nature.

7.Rectal fistula: Fistula of rectum associated with rectum prolapse/ constipation.

8.Prolapse of the rectum: Rectal prolapse with chronic constipation.

9.Gastric ulcers: Gastric ulcers with a sore feeling in stomach, weak digestion, and dyspepsia.

Hydrastis: Dosage

Homeopathic medicine Hydrastis Canadensis is recommended in low potencies for respiratory troubles and can frequently be repeated.
It can be given in the form of mother tincture as well.
For malignant tumors and other chronic ailments, it should always be taken under the guidance of a homeopathic physician.

Hydrastis Canadensis and Other Homeopathic Remedies

Hydrastis is antidoted by Sulphur, and Merc Sol is its antidote.