A person having a weight below the range that is considered normal as per his/her height and age is believed to be underweight. Many persons may be underweight simply because of their genetic makeup. Others may be underweight because of other factors such as eating less or taking a diet insufficient in nutrients. There are a few medical conditions that make a person lose weight and fall in the underweight category. These medical conditions include IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), tuberculosis, Crohn’s disease, and liver problems. A person who is stressed or depressed may also lose weight. Homeopathic medicines for gaining weight help put on weight naturally.

Being underweight makes a person prone to lowered immunity. A weak immune system increases the risk of recurrent infections. Anaemia, tiredness, hair loss, weak bones, osteoporosis are other negative outcomes of being underweight. In women, being underweight puts you at a greater risk of amenorrhea, difficulty in getting pregnant and complications during pregnancy.

Homeopathic Medicines for Gaining Weight

Homeopathy medicines are extremely helpful for persons looking to gain weight. Homeopathy offers a wide range of medicines that can help underweight persons gain weight in a healthy way. The selection of medicines for gaining weight is based on individual case presentation. The medicines help gain weight while at the same time building immunity. In fact, Homeopathy medicines work by correcting the underlying medical condition that has caused the weight loss in the first place, thereby improving the overall health condition of the person concerned. Iodum, Natrum Mur, China, Cal. Phos and Ferrum Met are the top remedies.

1. Iodum – For Gaining Weight

Iodum rates among the most suitable medicines for gaining weight. Iodum is most useful in cases where a person continues to lose weight even while having a balanced diet. Such persons have a good appetite and eat well, yet go on losing flesh. They look thin and emaciated. Great debility, nervousness, heated sensation are other complaints. Iodum is also considered a great prescription for underweight persons who have an overactive thyroid gland. It is considered one of the exceptionally effective Homeopathic medicines for gaining weight again in such cases.

2. Natrum Mur – For People Losing Weight due to Long-standing Grief, Depression

Natrum Mur is one of the most preferred medicines for gaining weight in persons who lose weight and start to look emaciated due to grief or depression. Persons who need Natrum Mur have severe depression. They constantly dwell on the past and shut off from society. Weeping and lack of self-care are key symptoms. Such persons avoid meals and look extremely thin. Natrum Mur helps overcome depression and restores good health in such cases.

3. China – For Weight Loss due to Chronic  Diarrhea

China is one of the top listed medicines for gaining weight in people with long-standing diarrhea. Such persons have low weight, marked weakness and fainting spells. Excessive flatulence and bloated abdomen are other complaints. Homeopathic medicine China helps to regain the healthy state that has been ruined because of chronic diarrhea. It is rated among the best medicines for gaining weight and restoring good health in this category.

4. Calcarea Phos – For Underweight People with Weak Bones

Calcarea Phos is another of the wonderful medicines for gaining weight in persons who suffer weak bones in addition to weight loss. The bones are thin, brittle and prone to fractures. Calcarea Phos helps to gain weight and strengthen bones at the same time. Calcarea Phos is also helpful in persons having a weak spine disposed to curvatures. It is also an extraordinary medicine to promote weight gain in underweight children who are emaciated, thin and show weak and tardy development. This child also shows slow development of speech, late dentition and is slow in learning how to walk.

5. Ferrum Met – For Underweight People with Anaemia

In underweight persons who are also anemic, Ferrum Met is one of the most beneficial medicines for gaining weight. Such persons also complain of weakness, lack of stamina, debility, pallor of the face, blue circles around the eyes and palpitations on exertion. Bleeding tendencies may also prevail. Ferrum Met is the ideal prescription among medicines for gaining weight in such cases.

Infections caused by the presence of a virus in the body are known as viral infections. One or more viruses cause these infections, and they are common in clinical practice. Although these infections can affect anyone, children and aged people are more susceptible due to weaker immune systems. Homeopathic treatment for viral infections helps resolve the condition by naturally strengthening the immune system, thereby enabling the body to fight infection.   
Some viral infections are self-limiting while others can lead to severe complications. These infections produce debilitating symptoms and affect the day-to-day life of the infected person.
The symptoms vary depending on the organs or systems affected by the virus. The most prominent symptoms include high fever and severe body pain with marked weakness. In addition to this, specific symptoms also occur.

How do Viral Infections Spread?

Viral infections are highly contagious and get transferred very quickly by direct or indirect contact. Viral infections of the skin like herpes and chickenpox spread by direct or indirect contact through infectious discharge. This discharge oozes from skin eruptions that are a common symptom of these diseases.

Viral infections of the respiratory system spread through exposure to nasal or respiratory discharges. Discharge is spread while coughing or sneezing, or by direct contact with items like contaminated handkerchief or utensils.

Viral infections can lead to gastroenteritis or hepatitis. Here the spread occurs by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Few viral infections spread by the bite of insects like mosquitoes or ticks. They include hemorrhagic fevers e.g. dengue, chikungunya, etc. There are the sexually transmitted viral infections like AIDS, Hepatitis B, etc. They spread by unprotected intercourse with infected partners. The spread can also occur via blood transfusion.

Symptoms of Viral Infections

The symptoms of a viral infection depend on the nature of the virus, age and health status of the patient, and the organ affected.
However, there are general symptoms present in all viral infections. These include high fever and rising and ebbing temperature accompanied by chilliness. The patient may complain of extreme weakness and fatigue. Marked pain in the head, body-ache, muscle-pain, and joint-pain is also noted.
Nausea and vomiting are some other symptoms associated with viral infections.

Fever is the most common symptom that is present in almost all viral infections. It is the reaction of body’s immune system against foreign bodies, like viruses. It is a worrisome symptom in children and quick-relief is often sought through drugs to lower fever.
Fever-lowering drugs suppress the fever temporarily, but infection inside the body persists.

Homeopathic Treatment for Viral Infections

Conventional drugs do not offer comprehensive treatments for viral infections. Certain viruses like Influenza, HIV, etc. have tendencies to mutate (change) very rapidly, thereby lowering the effectiveness of such medicines. Additionally, viruses quickly develop resistance to these drugs, making the development of preventive medicine somewhat challenging. Conventional medications therefore only provide supportive management and suppression of the symptoms.
Homeopathic treatment for viral infections helps ease the symptoms and also enables the body to heal naturally.

Homeopathy treatment for viral infections is steadily gaining popularity as a natural way to deal with viral infections. These medicines help reduce the frequency and intensity of acute symptoms like weakness, fever, body pain, etc. These help with quick recovery. In some cases, they reduce the chances of further complications. Homeopathy treatment for viral infections treats the symptoms not by suppressing them, but by strengthening the immune system. It activates the body’s natural restorative properties by producing symptoms similar to the ones experienced by the patients. This method helps settle underlying internal disturbances in the body. Homeopathy treatment for viral infections also minimizes the weakness and fatigue commonly encountered as an aftermath of the infection.

Viral infections are highly communicable and spread rapidly from one person to another. Homeopathy treatment for viral infections is also preventative and helps reduce the chances of contracting the infection.

1. Viral Infections that Affect the Skin

The most common viral infections of skin include Herpes simplex infection, warts and eruptive fevers like chickenpox, measles, rubella, etc.

Herpes Simplex

Herpes simplex is a viral infection that can occur in any part of the body. Most common sites include the mouth, face, genitals and anal region. It is of two types – Type 1 and Type 2.
Type-1 is oral herpes that mainly affects mouth and face. It spreads by direct contact with an infected person.
Type-2 is a sexually transmitted infection that affects the genital and anal region. Sores develop in the mouth, face, genital and anal area. General symptoms of fever, body pain are also present. In some cases, the infection may spread to eyes and lead to eye pain, discharge, and grittiness in the eyes.
Homeopathy treatment for viral infections like herpes simplex includes the use of medicines like Natrum Mur, Rhus Tox, and Petroleum.
Natrum Mur is indicated where eruptions develop on the skin during fever. They are filled with fluid and burst eventually, leaving behind a thin crust. They may present around the mouth, or on arms and thighs.
In cases where intolerable itching and burning accompany the herpes simplex infection,  medicine Rhus Tox is used. The patient has an urge to scratch, but scratching provides no relief. Eruptions may contain a yellow-watery fluid.
Petroleum is a medicine for herpes simplex accompanied by itching sores. The eruptions may change into ulcers and be present on the chest, neck, and knee.

Eruptive Fevers

Eruptive fevers, as the name indicates, are viral fevers in which general symptoms are present with characteristic rashes. Chickenpox, measles, and rubella are all eruptive fevers.

Chickenpox

The varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox. It is a highly infectious disease that mostly affects children, but can also affect adults. It spreads through contact with an infected person via sneezing, coughing, saliva, and discharges from rashes.
The symptoms are mild in children and more pronounced in adults.
The symptoms of chickenpox include general symptoms of viral infections along with a typical rash. The rash erupts first on the trunk and face, where it is dense. It then spreads to the limbs.
These rashes are red-colored, itchy blisters filled with fluid with a crust on top.
Every new rash eruption comes with a rise in temperature. Homeopathy treatment for chickenpox includes medicines like Antim Crud and Antim Tart.
Antim crud is used when there is a formation of pustules accompanied by itching. There is soreness upon scratching. The eruptions may ooze out yellowish-green fluid. Eventually, thick crusts may develop and the patient may feel weak.
Antim Tart is another treatment for chickenpox with itching and red rashes. Painful vesicular eruptions may present on the whole body. They may fill up with pus and dry up, forming a brown crust. Fever often occurs with these eruptions.

Shingles

Herpes zoster (shingles) is a common skin disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. In some cases, the virus is present in the nerves of the body in an inactive form. The virus becomes active and affects the nerves in case the immunity weakens. It leads to painful skin eruptions and is common in adults and old people. General symptoms accompany the development of rash over the length of the nerve. The rash develops in a small band or strip area. As the disease progresses, rashes change into fluid-filled blisters. Pain and itching are present, followed by the formation of a crust. Healing takes between 15-30 days, but the pain may persist for longer.
Treatment for viral infections like herpes zoster includes medicines like Ranunculus bulb, Mezereum, and Clematis. Ranunculus bulb is indicated when the blisters are of bluish –black color. They may fill with fluid and cause extreme burning and itching. Upon bursting, hard crust forms in place of the blister.
Mezereum is used in treatment for shingles with severe neuralgic pains accompanied by itching. It may get worse by touch in most cases. The blisters may burn and form brown scabs that heal slowly.
Clematis is a well-known treatment for long-standing cases of herpes zoster. The eruptions (in cases where this medicine is required) are red, coupled with intense itching that may get worse after washing.

Measles

Measles is another highly infectious disease caused by the rubeola virus. It affects children the most and spreads through contact with an infected person. Symptoms include general symptoms of viral infections and a typical reddish-brown rash. Sneezing, watery eyes, and cough may also be present. A characteristic feature is the presence of bluish –white spots in the oral mucosa (koplik spot).
Homeopathy treatment for measles includes medicines like Pulsatilla, Euphrasia, and Morbillinum. Pulsatilla and Euphrasia are given mostly in the catarrhal stage of measles. Severe coryza with redness of eyes and profuse lachrymation (flow of tears) may also be present.
Morbillinum is chiefly a preventive medicine for measles.

Warts

Viral warts occur due to infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These are harmless growths of the skin that commonly spread through direct contact with an infected person. Warts can occur at any age but are more common among school children. Warts are of various types; like plane warts (with a flat surface) as seen on face and hands, plantar warts on foot soles, filiform warts (with stalk) on the face, and mucosal warts in the mouth or around lips.
Homeopathy treatment for viral infections like warts includes medicines like Thuja, Nitric Acid and Causticum. Thuja is used to treat all types of warts. They are large and mostly appear on the back of their hands.
Warts accompanied by soreness and burning are treated with Causticum. Nitric acid helps in cases where there is pricking pain, bleeding after washing, and warts that are painful to touch. These usually appear on the upper lip.

2. Viral Infections that Affect the Respiratory System

Viral infections of the respiratory system include the common cold, sore throat, sinusitis, influenza, etc.

Common Cold

The common cold and sore throat are the most common viral infections, and every person usually experiences these at least once in a lifetime. These are highly contagious and spread from person to person through sneezing or coughing. Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, stuffy nose, pain in throat, body aches, and fever.
Homeopathy treatment for the common cold includes the use of medicines Allium cepa and Euphrasia. Allium cepa is used in cases where there are profuse acrid nasal discharges accompanied by sneezing. A headache may also be present, along with discharges from eyes. The cold usually appears after exposure to damp winds. Euphrasia is also used to treat the common cold where sneezing accompanies profuse nasal discharges. Irritating eye discharges may also be present.

Influenza

Influenza is another viral infection of the respiratory system, also known as the flu. The causative virus is influenza virus A and B. Influenza virus is a constantly-changing strain and new strains appear every year. It usually affects young children and old people. People with low immunity, chronic heart or lung disease are more at risk of contracting this virus. It is self-limiting in a few cases while causing severe complications in others. Symptoms of influenza initially resemble the common cold. Fever with a chill, head pain, body pain, congestion of nose and throat, pain in the throat, weakness, running nose, sneezing, watery eyes, etc. are the typical symptoms. These develop suddenly and tend to last longer than the common cold. These symptoms are severe for 3-4 days, but the patient recovers after 7-10 days.
Homeopathy treatment for viral infections like the flu includes medicines like Aconite, Gelsemium, Oscillococcinum, and Influenzinum.
Aconite is indicated in cases where there has been an exposure to drafts of cold, dry winds. The symptoms appear suddenly and with high intensity. The nose becomes stuffy with scanty, watery nasal discharges. Fever may occur, along with restlessness.
Gelsemium treats influenza where dullness and drowsiness accompany typical symptoms, and the patient is prone to contract the virus with the change of weather. The after-effects of influenza remain for a long time. Weakness, along with thin, acrid, watery discharges from the nose, is present. Redness of eyes with watery discharges is also a common symptom.
Influenzinum is a medicine that reduces the intensity of these symptoms. It also prevents the spread of infections. Oscillococcinum is also used to treat and it helps in reducing the duration and severity of symptoms like fever, body pains, headache, etc.

3. Viral Infections that Affect the Gastrointestinal Tract

Gastroenteritis 

Rotavirus and Norovirus are the common causes of gastroenteritis (inflammation of stomach and intestines) in infants and young children. These are highly contagious and spread by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Symptoms of infection include fever, nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, pain in abdomen, weakness, body pain, etc. In some case, it is self-limiting, and the patient recovers within a few days. However, in other cases, it can cause severe dehydration. Arsenic Album and Nux vomica are the medicines used to treat viral infections of the gastrointestinal tract. Arsenic album is used in cases where diarrhea and vomiting are present with severe burning and restlessness. In most cases, the symptoms get worse after eating and drinking.
Nux vomica treats cases where constant nausea and vomiting are present, and the patient usually feels better after vomiting. Diarrhea, with a constant urge to pass stools is present, but only a small amount excretes at a given time.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is another highly infectious disease caused by the hepatitis A virus. It leads to inflammation of the liver. The virus spreads through contaminated food and water. Symptoms of hepatitis include nausea, vomiting, pain in the abdomen (usually on the right side), loss of appetite, yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice), dark-colored urine and clay-colored stool.
Treatment for viral infections like hepatitis includes medicines Chelidonium and Phosphorous.
Both medicines cover all the symptoms of hepatitis. In cases where Chelidonium is used, most patients feel better after eating hot food. Phosphorous is used when all the other symptoms accompany a burning and a desire to eat cold food.

4. Sexually Transmitted Viral Infections

AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome)

AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) refers to the fatal, final stage of the HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus) infection.
The immune system weakens as a result of this syndrome. HIV destroys CD 4 T- cells which are essential for a person’s immunity, thus making the patient more prone to common infections.
HIV is sexually transmitted by an infected person to healthy person through unprotected intercourse. It can also spread through sharing of contaminated needles or blood.
The virus also gets transmitted to a growing baby in the womb if the mother is infected. It can spread from an infected mother to her child during delivery or breastfeeding. Initial symptoms occur a few weeks after exposure and resemble a flu-like fever. Lymph glands swell up, but the patient may remain asymptomatic for months, or years before the symptoms become severe.
Treatment for AIDS can currently only delay the associated complications, but complete recovery is not yet possible. The virus is prone to rapid changes, which is why there is a lack of vaccines in the conventional system to prevent infection. These medicines help the body restore its natural healing properties. Homeopathy treatment for viral infections strengthens the body’s immune system. Some medicines used to manage the complications associated with AIDS include Crotalus horridus, Medorrhinum, and Merc Sol.

5. Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers

The most common viral hemorrhagic fever include Dengue and Chikungunya fever. The virus in both infections gets transmitted to a healthy person by the bite of an infectious mosquito. The symptoms of dengue include high temperature and severe body, joint, and muscle pain. Pain in the head and eyes is common, along with nausea, vomiting, and weakness. Rashes also appear on the skin. People with weak immunity or those experiencing a second attack by dengue virus are more likely to have hemorrhages, called dengue hemorrhagic fever. In some cases these are mild, but in other instances, massive hemorrhages may lead to shock. If not managed properly, death may occur.
In Chikungunya fever, all symptoms resemble a common viral illness, but with severe joint pains. Most patients make a full recovery, but joint pains may persist for a few weeks to months.
Homeopathy treatments for viral infections like dengue and chikungunya work on restoring the body’s natural healing systems. Medicines for hemorrhagic fevers include Eupatorium perfoliatum and Gelsemium.
Eupatorium perfoliatum is used to treat severe body and muscular pain.
Gelsemium treats cases of hemorrhagic fever where there is a severe headache. The patient may complain of weakness and dullness, and muscular pains accompany the illness.

Mumps

Mumps is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the mump virus. It is mainly an infection of salivary glands (most commonly the parotid glands). Mumps spread through direct contact with an infected person via saliva and nasal discharges. Symptoms include painful swelling of the glands, in addition to general symptoms of a viral infection.
Belladonna and parotidinum are the medicines used to treat mumps. Belladonna is used in case the parotid gland is swollen and painful. The glands are very hot and sensitive to touch and may be accompanied by ear pain. Parotidinum is a prophylactic against mumps infection.

Worm infestation is a very common disorder among children. The common worm infestations include pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis), roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), tapeworm and hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale). Homeopathic medicines for worms help treat the problem naturally and are safe for use in children.

Symptoms of Worm Infestation

The main symptoms of worm infestation include anal itching, vaginal itching, irritability, sleeplessness, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive hunger, teeth grinding, anemia, weight loss, seizures, cough, wheezing and difficulty in breathing.

Homeopathic Medicines for Worms

Homeopathy is a safe and reliable mode of treatment of worm infestations. These medicines strengthen the infection fighting mechanism of the body to eradicate the disease. Homeopathic medicines for worms not only eradicate the worms, but also help improve the overall health condition of the individual. Homeopathic medicines are natural and non-toxic remedies with zero side effects and therefore, most suitable for children.

The top three recommended Homeopathic medicines for worms are Cina, Teucrium and Spigelia. Among these, Cina is the best choice for worms where the condition is accompanied by excessive hunger, irritable mind, teeth grinding, picking at the nose and bed clothes. Teucrium is a top grade Homeopathic medicine to manage anal itching from worms while Spigelia is one of the best Homeopathic medicines for worms that cause pain around the umbilical region.

1. Teucrium and Cina – For Worms causing Anal or Vaginal Itching

Anal or vaginal itching is mainly the symptom of pinworm infection. Top grade medicines for worm infections of this type are Teucrium and Cina. Teucrium is the best-suited remedy for anal itching from worms where a crawling sensation and anal itching get worse during the evening or when in bed. Cina is useful where anal itching is accompanied by teeth grinding. Caladium is one of the best medicines for worms with vaginal itching.

2. Cina, Santoninum and Merc Sol – For Worms Leading to Teeth Grinding

The best medicines for worms where the person grinds his teeth are Cina, Santoninum and Merc Sol. Cina and Santoninum are mostly selected in cases where the teeth grinding is marked at night. A child prescribed these medicines grates the teeth constantly while sleeping. Merc Sol is a good choice among medicines for worms where teeth grinding is attended with copious salivation from the mouth.

3. Cina and Spigelia – For Worms causing Abdominal Pain

Highly effective medicines for worms causing abdomen pain are Cina and Spigelia. Cina is chosen when cramping, pinching, cutting colic in the abdomen is experienced from worms. The pain gets better by applying pressure. Spigelia is an excellent choice among medicines for worms where colicky, pinching pains are centered around the umbilical region. Nausea may accompany navel pain.

4. Cina and Natrum Mur – For Worms causing Excessive Hunger

Cina and Natrum Mur feature among the best medicines for worms leading to excessive hunger. Persons prescribed Cina and Natrum Mur experience ravenous, canine hunger which is renewed soon after eating. The person feels the need to eat constantly yet will not gain weight.

5. Cina and Abrotanum – For Worms causing Irritability in Children

Wonderful medicines for worms leading to irritability in children are Cina and Abrotanum. Cina is the most effective among medicines for worms indicated in children where extreme irritability is present. The child is ill-humored, very cross with a tendency to strike and bite. Teeth grinding accompanies these symptoms. Abrotanum is also prescribed when the child is ill-humored and irritable. Marked emaciation is also seen among children needing Abrotanum.

Management:

• Maintain personal hygiene
• Wash undergarments and bed linen in hot water
• Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly before eating
• Get children into the habit of washing hands after using the washroom and before eating
• Restrict the child from playing in the soil
• Boil drinking water or use water purifiers to prevent worm infections

Reduced power or strength in one or more muscles is known as muscle weakness. Muscles are a bundle of fibrous, contractile tissues that possess the ability to contract to produce movement. The exchange of signals between the muscle and nervous system takes place at the neuromuscular junction. The muscles are unable to contract normally if the connection between the nervous system and muscles get injured or damaged. This, in turn, leads to muscle weakness. Homeopathic medicines for muscle weakness works very effectively to restore the strength back into the muscles.

Homeopathic Medicines for Muscle Weakness

Picric Acid, Causticum, and Gelsemium are the top remedies used to treat muscle weakness.

1. Picric Acid – For Muscle Weakness in Legs

Picric Acid is a well-indicated remedy for muscle weakness in the legs. The person needing Picric Acid experiences great weakness in the legs along with a feeling of heaviness. The legs feel weak from a short walk and feel heavy all the time. There may be trembling in the legs, numbness, crawling, and a pricking sensation. The person may feel tired by the least amount of exertion. Both mental and physical weakness may be present.

2. Causticum – For Muscle Weakness in Arms

Causticum is a natural medicine for muscle weakness that has great action on muscles and nerves. It works particularly well for muscle weakness in the arms. There is a progressive loss of muscular strength in the arms, which feel weak and lame. Weakness in arms usually is seen to get worse in the night time. A tearing, dull pain in the arms may be present. Causticum is also indicated for muscle weakness in the hands and fingers. There appears fullness in hands when the person tries to grasp anything. Fingers may also feel icy cold. The person needing Causticum may have a high sensitivity towards cold air. Apart from muscle weakness, Causticum is a top ranking medicine for paralysis (loss of muscle function).

3. Gelsemium Sempervirens – For Muscle Weakness with Deep Muscle Pains

Gelsemium Sempervirens is a natural treatment for muscle weakness. It is prepared from the plant Yellow Jasmine of the Loganiaceae family. Muscle weakness attended with deep-seated muscle pains is indicative of its use. The person needing this medicine has weakness in the arm and leg muscles. The muscles lose their power to contract effectively. Arms feel powerless and numb. Trembling of hands and legs (that feel fatigued and tired from little exercise) are other symptoms. There appears difficulty in walking, with an unsteady gait from a weakness of the leg muscles. Drawing, contractive, cramping, and deep-seated muscular pains in the legs are also present. The calf muscles feel bruised, and there is a numbness in the limbs. General fatigue and weakness are also well-noted along with these symptoms.

4. Arnica Montana – For Muscle Weakness with Sore, Bruised Muscle Pain

Arnica Montana is a natural medicine prepared from the plant Leopard’s Bane of the family Composite. Arnica Montana is a useful natural medicine for muscle weakness attended with sore, and bruised muscle pains. There is a loss of strength in the body. The arms feel weary, and the wrist feels powerless. The person is unable to use the arm. The hand muscles also lack strength. Legs also appear weak, and the feet feel tired. The limbs feel heavy and ache with a sore, bruised sensation. The muscles may twitch, and the person feels sluggish, with a strong desire to lie down. Tiredness, weakness, and exhaustion are other symptoms. Muscle weakness arising from overstraining the muscles also indicates the use of Arnica Montana.

5. Kali Phos – For Muscle Weakness with Marked Fatigue

Kali Phos is a natural cure for muscle weakness attended with marked general fatigue. There is muscle weakness with lameness throughout the body. The limbs feel weak and tired, and there is debility and weakness. Use of Kali Phos is also considered in cases of muscle weakness present in chronic fatigue syndrome.

6. Arsenic Album – Natural Remedies for Muscle Weakness from Least Exertion

Arsenic Album is an excellent medicine for muscle weakness that arises from the least amount of exertion. The entire body feels weary, with an aversion towards any effort. Limbs feel excessively weak and exhausted. Exhaustion confines the person to the bed. Other symptoms include sleeplessness, anxiety, and restlessness. The person may experience debility and exhaustion from the slightest amount of over-work.

7. Stannum Met – For Muscle Weakness in Limbs with Heaviness

Stannum Met is a natural medicine for muscle weakness in limbs attended with heaviness. There appears to be a loss of power in the limbs. Arms feel weak and heavy. Motion worsens it. Weakness and fatigue of arms arise from lifting a small weight, or from the slightest exercise. The person may be unable to hold an object due to weakness. There may be twitching of muscles of the forearm and hand. The thighs also feel weak and heavy. Walking worsens it, making the person want to sit down. Excessive weariness and fatigue with a desire to lie down may be present.

8. Conium Maculatum – For Muscle Weakness in Legs with Trembling

Conium Maculatum is a suitable medicine for muscle weakness in the legs attended with their trembling. Loss of muscle power in legs and extreme weakness from walking short distance is present. The person is unable to walk and has a staggering gait. Shooting pain in the legs may arise. Legs feel heavy and weary. Knees also feel weak. Conium Maculatum is also an indicated medicine for paralytic weakness in lower limbs that ascends upwards.

9. Plumbum Met – For Progressive Muscle Weakness

Plumbum Met is a natural cure for severe muscle weakness that progresses rapidly. There appears marked debility, weakness, and lameness of the arms. Muscles of the arm lack the power to move. Muscle weakness is severe and progressive. Cramping in the calf muscles may also be present. Plumbum Met is also a prominently indicated medicine for paralysis of limbs along with atrophy (wasting) of the muscles.

10. Sarcolacticum Acidum – Natural Medicine for Muscle Weakness with General Tiredness

Sarcolacticum Acidum is a remedy for muscle weakness along with general tiredness. Exertion aggravates the complaint, and the body feels sore. The person remains restless at night. There is tiredness felt in the neck, back, shoulders and wrist. Arms also feel tired and weak as if they lack strength.

Causes of Muscle Weakness

Muscle weakness can arise for various reasons, which include prolonged bed rest, immobilization, lack of exercise, a sedentary lifestyle (if a person doesn’t use muscles, then muscle fibers are replaced by fat and muscles can’t contract effectively), aging. Increased calcium levels in the blood, low sodium levels, pinching of nerves in the spine, and Myasthenia gravis (an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness and fatigue of the muscles.) are some other causes.

Muscles are a bundle of fibrous tissue which helps move the body by contraction. Stretching muscles beyond their tensile strength make them sore. Primary causes behind sore muscles are overstretching, overexertion, strenuous exercise, heavy weight lifting, and trauma. Muscle soreness is of two types – acute muscle soreness, and delayed onset muscle soreness. In acute muscle soreness, muscle pain is experienced during and immediately after exercise. In delayed onset muscle soreness, muscle pain is felt several hours to a few days after excessive exercise. The symptoms of sore muscles are pain, stiffness, and tenderness in the muscle. Using the muscle worsens the pain, and resting it brings relief. Homeopathic medicines for sore muscles is very beneficial. Muscle soreness arising from different causes is dealt with effectively with these medicines.   

Treatment Options for Sore Muscles

Conventional treatment involves the use of non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs which relieve pain by preventing the body’s cyclooxygenase enzymes from working. These enzymes make hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which contribute to pain and inflammation. NSAIDs are most often prescribed for arthritis and for the pain resulting from muscle sprains, strains, back and neck injuries, and menstrual cramps. Some commonly seen side effects can include nausea, stomach pain, bleeding and ulcer formation. NSAIDs also increase the risk of cardiovascular problems and they can interact with drugs prescribed for heart diseases such as blood thinners, antihypertensive drugs, and aspirin. Homeopathic treatment for sore muscles is very beneficial. Muscle soreness arising from different causes is dealt with effectively with homeopathy medicines. These medicines help persons with sore muscles caused by overstretching, overexerting, or injuries.

Mind-body therapies are treatments that are meant to help the mind’s ability to access the functions and symptoms of the body. Relaxation techniques can help in the discomfort related to chronic pain.
Acupuncture is also thought to decrease pain by increasing the release of chemicals that block pain called endorphins. When stimulated, these nerves cause a dull ache or feeling of fullness in the muscle. The stimulated muscle sends a message to the central nervous system causing the release of endorphins. Endorphins along with other neurotransmitters block the message of pain from being delivered to the brain.

Homeopathic Medicines for Sore Muscles

Rhus Toxicodendron, Arnica Montana, Bryonia Alba, Cimicifuga, Gelsemium, Sanguinaria Canadensis are the top remedies used to treat muscles soreness.

1. Rhus Toxicodendron – For Sore Muscles Due to Weightlifting

Rhus Toxicodendron, also known as Poison Ivy is a flowering shrub whose leaves are used to make the medicine. It belongs to the family Anacardiaceae and is commonly found in parts of Asia and Eastern North America. The main actions of the remedy are on the inflammatory conditions, skin and rheumatic pains of the body. Rhus Tox is a beneficial remedy for the treatment of sore muscles caused due to lifting heavy weights. Stiffness, along with sore and painful muscles is also seen. Application of something warm over the affected part may offer some relief. There is also some soreness of the condyles of the bones. The cold fresh air is not tolerated and it makes the skin painful. Tenderness is also felt in the affected muscles.

2. Arnica Montana – For Sore Muscles Due to Trauma

Arnica Montana (also known as Wolf’s Bane) is a flowering plant of the Asteraceae family, the dried flowers of which are used to prepare the remedy Arnica. It is commonly found in the European region. Arnica is a well-indicated remedy for injury to the skin or for pain and swelling associated with bruises, aches, and sprains in the muscles. Sore muscles as a result of trauma respond well to Arnica. It is also a good remedy for the sore muscles after previous injuries. There is a sore, lame and bruised feeling in the body. The patient may feel the pain in various muscles as if resulting from being beaten. Touching the affected body part worsens the pain as muscles are tender. Arnica is also used for sore muscles caused by influenza.

3. Bryonia Alba – When Slight Motion Worsens the Pain

Bryonia Alba or White Bryony is a perennial climbing herb found in parts of Europe and Northern Iran, of the family Cucurbitaceae. The dried root of this plant is used to prepare the homeopathic remedy. Bryonia has its affinity towards dryness of all mucous membranes of the body, aching in single muscle and the serous membranes of the organs. Bryonia Alba is best suited in cases of sore muscles when relief is brought about by only absolute rest. The slightest motion of the affected part worsens the pain. People requiring Bryonia feel relief when pressure is applied to the affected part. Lying down on the affected part also makes the soreness of the muscles better.

Other Important Remedies

4. Cimicifuga

Cimicifuga is a beneficial medicine for sore muscles affecting the central bulge of the large muscles. In such cases, the application of something cold worsens the pain. Cimicifuga is an excellent medicine for sore muscles caused by excessive muscle exertion, like dancing or long, continuous running, etc. Pain in the muscles of the neck from overwork like typing is also treated well with this remedy.

5. Gelsemium

Gelsemium is a beneficial medicine for the sore muscles. It is used in cases of extreme weakness and fatigue accompanying muscle soreness. In such cases, the patient gets relief by lying down or resting. Gelsemium helps to relieve the pain in the muscles as well as the weakness along with it. Gelsemium also works well for sore muscles caused by influenza.

6. Sanguinaria Canadensis

Sanguinaria Canadensis is a useful medicine for soreness and pain in the deltoid muscle. Along with being painful, the deltoid muscle is also very stiff. The pain worsens on lifting the arm and usually aggravates at night time. Sanguinaria works well for deltoid pain on the right side.

Types of Muscle Soreness

Muscle soreness is of two types:

Acute muscle soreness is the pain felt in the muscles immediately after a vigorous physical stimulus. The pain appears within a minute of contraction of the muscle and disappears within two or three minutes or up to some hours after the muscle’s relaxation.
Accumulation of chemical end products of exercise in muscle cells, such as H+, tissue edema caused by the shifting of blood plasma into the muscle tissue during the process of contraction, muscle fatigue (the muscle tires and cannot carry out contraction any more), and acute muscle soreness reflects one form of exercise-induced muscle damage.

Delayed onset muscle soreness is exercise-related muscle pain. It develops after excessive and unaccustomed exercise after the muscles fail to relax within 48-72 hours. It is prevalent if that exercise has an eccentric component where the muscles are contracting whilst lengthening – eg downhill running, long-distance running.

Causes of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)

DOMS is caused by muscle strains. The trauma results in an inflammatory response with intramuscular fluid and as a result the electrolyte shift. Biochemical markers such as creatine kinase and lactic dehydrogenase are found in the blood of the sufferers. Swelling, pain is thought to be the reason why muscle strength and function is impaired in the patients.

Symptoms of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

The classic symptoms of this soreness describe a dull muscle ache that develops 24 to 48 hours after a strenuous exercise. It is localized to the affected muscles and results in muscle stiffness as well as tenderness. Passive stretching will increase the symptoms which is one of the reasons why stiffness develops. This condition can also result in a short-term loss of muscle strength, a reduced range of motion and possible swelling of the affected muscles. Continuous movement may improve the symptom of stiffness over time.

How do Muscles get Sore?

One of the consequences of vigorous exercise is an accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles. Lactic acid is a normal byproduct of the metabolism, but it can irritate the muscles thus causing discomfort and soreness. Muscle soreness associated with an exercise is known as delayed onset muscle soreness. It can make it difficult to walk, reduce the strength, or cause discomfort for a couple of days. However, lactic acid is removed from muscle from just a few hours to less than a day after a workout, so it isn’t the cause of the soreness experienced days after a workout. The swelling in the muscle that results from an influx of white blood cells, prostaglandins (anti-inflammatory cells), and other nutrients and fluids that flow to the muscles to repair the damage and are known to be the cause of a prolonged soreness. The swelling and inflammation can build up for days, thereby becoming the main reason for muscle soreness getting worse after 2-3 days.

Managing and Preventing Sore Muscles

To minimize the development of muscle soreness, the following suggestions should be kept in mind:
Take it slow and gradually build up the amount of exercise at one time.
Be aware of the amount of eccentric exercise being included in the workouts.
Long distance runners should incorporate eccentric quadriceps training into their training to avoid soreness.

It is advisable to avoid aggressive exercise during the recovery phase. This is due to the muscle’s reduced capacity to cope up with the shock absorption, in-coordination, and the contraction intensity. Cycling has been shown to temporarily ease the pain.
Using an ice pack in case of an acute injury, or if there is a swelling of the muscle area and it feels warm, can help soothe the muscle. Wrap up an ice pack in a thin towel and place it on the sore muscles for about 15 minutes.
A massage will help to relax the very tight sore muscles and soothes muscle aches. However, this should not be done in cases of an acute injury.
Stretching your muscles for about 10 minutes after a rigorous workout to prevent sore muscles and warming up the body with simple movements like arm swings before exercise can help avoid soreness.
In the case of soreness, do not stop exercising completely. The fact that we experience muscle soreness after a workout is a sign that the muscles have been stretched and are slowly getting better. By using the muscles (with light activity) we can speed up the elimination of lactic acid buildup in the muscles.
Build up eccentric exercises slowly. Eccentric contractions occur when the muscles lengthen under tension. Walking or running downhill are also examples of eccentric training. Increasing the intensity gradually is seen to have relieved the intensity of pain.
Lastly, a warm bath may loosen the tightened muscles and boost up the blood circulation, thus providing temporary relief.

Tinea capitis is a ringworm/fungal infection of the scalp and hair shafts. It is a highly contagious infection. Tinea capitis is caused by fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi attack the outer layer of skin on the scalp and the hair shaft. Ringworm spreads through direct skin to skin contact with an infected person. It can also spread through contact with objects like towels, bed sheets, combs, caps, etc that are infected with this fungus. Apart from the above, it can also pass from infected animals to human beings. Homeopathic medicines for tinea capitis help prevent the spread of fungal infection and heal the existing patches of ringworm on the scalp. 

Signs and Symptoms of Tinea Capitis

The main feature of tinea capitis is round itchy patches on the scalp. The patches tend to slowly expand or enlarge and maybe one or multiple in number. The hair may become brittle and break off from these patches resulting in bald spots. Black dots may be seen on the scalp where the hair has broken off. Patches of scaly skin may be present in some of the cases of tinea capitis. Tender, painful areas on the scalp may be present. In severe cases, crusts form on the scalp that drains pus. There is a risk of scarring and permanent hair loss in few cases of tinea capitis.

Homeopathic Medicines for Tinea Capitis

Tinea capitis can be treated with homeopathy medicines in an excellent manner. They also help to manage itching, tenderness, crusty eruptions and hair loss associated with infection. The top grade homeopathic medicines to treat tinea capitis include Sepia, Tellurium, Arsenic Album, Mezereum and Calcarea Carb.

1. Sepia – Top Medicine for Tinea Capitis

Sepia is a top grade medicine for treating cases of tinea capitis. In cases needing Sepia, there are circular ringworm patches on the scalp that are mainly isolated. There is violent itching in the ringworm spots. The scalp may also be tender to touch. There may be an eruption on the top or back part of the scalp with itching and tingling/stinging sensation. After scratching they feel sore. Sour smelling sweat on the head may be present. Bald spots on scalp also indicate the use of Sepia. The spot may be covered with dry scales in most cases.

2. Tellurium – For Multiple intersecting Ring-Shaped Lesions on Scalp

Tellurium is a significant medicine to treat tinea capitis with multiple intersecting ring-shaped lesions on the scalp. The ring lesions are elevated. There is itching with continual scratching. Stinging sensation on the skin may be present. Skin is dry and hot.

3. Arsenic Album – When Ringworm Patches are Covered with Scales

Arsenic Album is well indicated for tinea capitis when ringworm patches on the scalp are covered with scales. Marked burning and itching attend. This gets worse in the evening time. Ringworm infection on the scalp with vesicular or pustular eruptions is also suggestive of using Arsenic Album. These eruptions may destroy the roots of the hair. Circular patches of hair loss with rough and dirty skin surface on the scalp may also be noticed where Arsenic Album is indicated.

4. Mezereum – For Thick Leather-like Crusts on Scalp

Mezereum is prepared from fresh bark of a plant named Daphne mezereum commonly known as Spurge Olive of the natural order Thymelaceae. Mezereum is beneficial to treat tinea capitis cases with thick leather-like crusts on the scalp. Under the crust, white pus may collect. Hair may be glued together and may come out in handfuls in some cases. The crusts may extend to the nape of the neck and behind the ears. Burning, biting and itching on the scalp may be felt. Itching worsens mostly at night time.

5. Calcarea Carb – For Lesions Covered with Yellow Scabs

Calcarea Carb is indicated to treat tinea capitis lesions covered with Yellow Scabs. The scab lesions mainly appear on the top of the head and tend to bleed when picked at. Excessive sweating of head may be present especially in the evening time. Itching along with biting and burning sensation on the scalp may appear. Scratching worsens the itching. Yellowish-white scales on the scalp may be present in few cases needing Calcarea Carb.

6. Graphites – For Dry Scab Eruptions

Graphites is a useful medicine for tinea capitis with dry scabby eruptions. The eruptions are large and dark in color. There is itching on scalp. Burning sensation, especially on the top of the head, is felt. Ringworm lesions with scales are also treated well with Graphites. In some cases requiring Graphites, there is falling out of hair with bald places on the scalp that are perfectly smooth and shining.

7. Hepar Sulph – For Tender, Painful Areas on Scalp

Hepar Sulph offers help for tinea capitis when tender, painful areas on the scalp are there. The scalp is sensitive to touch. It is accompanied by burning and itching. It is also indicated for sore painful pimples on the scalp with large bald spots. Cold sweat with sour smell may be present on the scalp.

8. Sulphur – For Eruption filled with Pus

Sulphur is prominently indicated for tinea capitis with eruptions on the scalp that are filled with pus. The eruption appears mainly on top of the head. They are painful to touch. After drying they get covered with honey like scabs. The eruptions have severe itching and burning in them. Itching mainly gets worse in the evening time.

9. Phosphorus – To treat tinea capitis with bald spots on the scalp

Phosphorus is suitable medicine to treat cases of tinea capitis with bald spots on the scalp. Bald spots on the scalp are clear and smooth. Scalp remains dry with heat. Clammy perspiration also appears on the scalp. The scalp is itchy too.

10. Dulcamara – For Tinea Capitis that gets worse from Change of Weather

Dulcamara is prepared from fresh green stems and leaves of plant Solanum Dulcamara. This plant is commonly known by the name of woody nightshade or bittersweet. The natural order of this plant is Solanaceae. Dulcamara offers help in cases of tinea capitis that gets worse from a change of weather. The symptoms for using Dulcamara are thick brown crusts on the scalp. They have reddish borders and bleed when scratched. Hair also falls out from the infected area.

Urine incontinence is a condition in which urine leaks out involuntarily. Loss of bladder control results in this common and embarrassing situation. The condition affects persons of both genders. Urine incontinence involves a frequent and sudden urge to urinate, the person leaks urine while coughing and sneezing. The urge is so sudden and strong one does not usually get the time to reach a toilet. Constant dribbling of urine due to a bladder that does not empty is present. The causes are prolapsed uterus, menopause, and prostate problems. Age is a risk factor as well. Children and the elderly are more likely to suffer this condition. Homeopathic medicines for urine incontinence act extensively on restoring tonicity of the weakened muscles.   

Homeopathic Medicines for Urine Incontinence

Homeopathy medicines are of great help in treating urine incontinence. They strengthen the detrusor muscles of the urinary bladder. Involuntary urination occurs mostly when the bladder muscles become weak. Conventional treatments include painful surgical procedures, with chances of recurrence. Homeopathy, on the other hand, takes the non-invasive approach and uses natural medicines to heal the condition.

Cantharis, Squilla, Kreosotum, Benzoicum Acidum and Digitalis rate among the top grade medicines for urinary incontinence. Cantharis is prescribed in cases where there is an urge to urinate even with the smallest quantity of urine in the bladder. Squilla is one of the best medicines for urinary incontinence with watery spurting of urine when coughing.  Kreosotum acts well when the urge to urinate is very urgent and must be attended in a hurry. Where the person feels as though a lump is being pressed down on the bladder, Kreosotum is one of the most effective medicines for urinary incontinence. On the other hand, in cases where urine incontinence is attended with kidney problems, especially in the elderly, Benzoicum Acidum has shown remarkable results. Homeopathic medicine Digitalis has proved most effective where the urge to urinate increase after passing a few drops. In severe cases, where the person feels like a straw is being thrust back and forth, a symptom that worsens during the night, Digitalis has shown good results.

1. Ipecac, Causticum and Natrum Mur – For Urine and Stress Incontinence

Ipecac, Causticum and Natrum Mur rate among the best medicines for stress incontinence. The most suitable medicine for urine incontinence while coughing is Ipecac. Causticum is one of the most effective medicines for urine incontinence with involuntary urination when sneezing, coughing or with the slightest excitement. Involuntary urine leak when walking, coughing is treated well with Natrum Mur.

2. Cantharis, Pareira Brava, Staphysagria and Sulphur – For Urge Incontinence

Natural medicines Cantharis, Pareira Brava, Staphysagria and Sulphur are recognized as the most effective medicines for urge incontinence. Cantharis is one of the most reliable medicines for urine incontinence where there is a constant desire to urinate. In cases where the urge to urinate is very strong but the person can emit urine only when he goes down on his knees and strains really hard, Pareira Brava is one of the most reliable prescriptions. For ineffectual urge to urinate in newly married women, Staphysagria is the best among medicines for urine incontinence. Sulphur is very effective in cases with pain in the bladder if the urge to urinate is not attended.

3. Clematis, Sarsaparilla, Zingiber and Kali Bichromium – For Overflow Incontinence

The most well-recognized medicines for overflow incontinence include Clematis, Sarsaparilla, Zingiber and Kali Bichromium. For prescription of Clematis, the person must feel the need to strain hard to pass even a few drops of urine. Urine that suddenly stops and starts is also treated well with medicine Clematis. Sarsaparilla is one of the most effective medicines for urine incontinence where a person can pass urine only when standing. Urine that keeps dribbling while sitting is also best treated with Sarsaparilla. One of the top-rated medicines for urine incontinence in cases where the urine continues to ooze in drops even after urinating is Zingiber.

4. Lilium Tigrinum, Sepia, Guaiacum and Senecio Aureus – For Incontinence due to Uterus Problems

Homeopathy medicines for urine incontinence due to uterus problems, a condition that affects women, include Lilium Tigrinum, Sepia, Guaiacum, and Senecio Aureus. The most effective among medicines for urine incontinence from the prolapsed uterus is Lilium Tigrinum. Sepia is the most effective medicine for prolapsed uterus where a marked dragging pain in the pelvis is present, while Guaiacum is very effective for urine incontinence in women who complain of a sharp, stitching pain after urinating. Senecio Aureus works very well in women who feel a constant urge to urinate, together with great heat, making it stand out among the best medicines for urine incontinence of this type.

5. Baryta Carbonicum, Iodum and Prunus Spinosa – For Urine Incontinence due to Prostate

The prime medicines for urine incontinence due to prostate complaints are Baryta Carbonicum, Iodum, and Prunus Spinosa. Baryta Carbonicum has shown wonderful results in urine incontinence in males having an enlarged prostate. When testicles are swollen, causing twisting pain in the spermatic cord, Iodum is rated as one of the best medicines for urine incontinence. Prunus Spinosa is a very effective option in urine incontinency cases where the urine seems to pass as far as glans and then returns, causing pain in the urethra.

6. Alumina, Alfa Alfa and Secale Cornutum – For Urine Incontinence in Elderly

The three prominent medicines for urine incontinence in the elderly include Alumina, Alfa Alfa and Secale Cornutum. Alumina, one of the top grade Homeopathic medicines for urine incontinence, treat the condition most effectively in the elderly. Alfa Alfa is prescribed where the elderly feel a frequent urge to urinate as the kidneys are inactive. Secale Cornutum is rated among the best medicines for urine incontinence involving involuntarily urination in elderly who have suffered a paralysis of the bladder.

7. Equisetum Hymenale, Cina and Kreosotum – For Urine Incontinence in Children

Equisetum Hymenale, Cina and Kreosotum are known prescriptions for urine incontinence in children. One of the most effective medicines for urine incontinence or bed-wetting in children, who also have nightmares, is Equisetum Hymenale. Cina, another of the effective medicines for urine incontinence in children, has shown great results in cases where the child is very irritable and nervous. Kreosotum has proved itself as one of the most useful medicines for bed-wetting in children, especially when it is very difficult to wake the child even as he wets the bed.