The remedy Kali Carb is derived from potassium carbonate. Potassium carbonate is inert in crude state and when it goes through potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines via which medicinal properties of a crude substance are aroused), it gets converted into a homeopathic medicine of great use. It is most valuable to manage lung complaints and back pain.

The ‘Kali Carb’ Constitution

It suits persons who have tendency to grow fat. It also suits elderly people having complaints of edema (swollen soft tissue caused by the accumulation of excessive fluid usually in feet and legs) or paralysis (loss of muscle function). It is also recommended for certain medical problems in women after childbirth. Lastly, it suits people sensitive to atmospheric changes and every draft of air.

Drug Action

This medicine has a wide sphere of action and acts well on lungs, back, fibrous tissue, ligaments, gastric tract, eyes, throat, female genitals, heart, joints and male organs.

Clinical Indications

Asthma, bronchitis, pleurisy, pneumonia, cough, backache, swollen eyelids, piles, flatulence, bloated abdomen, constipation, piles, eye floaters, eye strain, difficult swallowing, stricture of food pipe, suppressed periods, gonorrhea in males, joint inflammation, palpitations, fatty degeneration of heart

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Respiratory System (Cough, Asthma, Bronchitis, Pleurisy, Pneumonia)

This medicine has a marked action on respiratory system where it helps to treat cases of asthma, bronchitis, pleurisy, pneumonia and cough. In case of asthma, it is given when the problem worsens from walking or the slightest movement. There is relief by sitting. A typical characteristic symptom for using this medicine is asthma attack occurring specifically between 2:00 am to 4:00 am. It is mainly indicated in bronchitis (inflamed bronchial tubes) that worsens from cold and dampness.  There is cough with thick, scant expectoration and the chest feels sensitive. In pneumonia (inflamed air sacs of lungs), it works well when there is dry cough with fever and stitching pain in chest. Coughing increases in the morning and from eating and drinking. For pleurisy (inflamed lining around the lungs), it is used when mainly the left side of the chest is affected. Stitching pain in the chest with dry cough and difficult breathing is the guiding feature. It is indicated for cough when it is dry, hard attended with chest pain. It may be attended with vomiting. This medicine is also prominent for cases of cough after measles.

Key Indicating Features

Asthma worse from least motion, walking, between 2:00 am to 4:00 am

Pneumonia and pleurisy with dry cough and stitching pain in chest

Dry hard cough with stitching chest pain

Cough after measles

2. Back (Back Pain, Weak Back)

Kali Carb is capable of settling many back complaints. It especially suits females who suffer from backache either during or before the menses. It also helps females having backache during pregnancy and after a miscarriage. It is useful for people having lower back pain accompanied by weakness in the back. The pain from here may radiate up and down. Stiffness in the back occurs with these symptoms. Additionally, burning sensation is felt in the spine.

Key Indicating Features

Backache in females during or before the menses, during pregnancy and after a miscarriage

Lower back pain accompanied by weakness

3. Eyes (Swollen Eyelids, Eye Floaters, Eyestrain)

Kali Carb acts on eyes and helps to manage mainly swollen eyelids. There may occur bag-like swelling over or under the eyes. Persons complaining of eye floaters can also benefit from this remedy. They may see black points or blue/green spots and bright sparks in front of the eyes. Last indication to use it is eyestrain (asthenopia). Here, a pressive pain and burning sensation is felt in the eyes. Sensitivity to bright light (photophobia) is an attending symptom.

Key Indicating Features

Swelling over or under the eyelids

Eye floaters black, blue or green spots and bright sparks in front of eyes

Eyestrain with pain, burning in eyes and sensitivity to bright light

4. Throat (Difficulty In Swallowing, Stricture Of Food Pipe, Throat Pain)

Kali Carb manages well cases where there is difficulty in swallowing. Food goes slowly down the food pipe. It may sometimes get stuck halfway in the food pipe followed by vomiting. It is highly recommended for cases of esophageal stricture (narrowing of the food pipe). It is an important medicine for cases of hoarse voice or loss of voice. Its use is also considered for throat pain with a feeling of fish bone sticking there. Dryness, roughness and scraping sensation is felt in the throat. Along with this, there may occur hawking of tough, sticky mucus in the morning.

Key indicating features

Difficulty in swallowing where food moves slowly down food pipe or gets stuck, followed by vomiting

Stricture of food pipe

Throat pain with sensation of fish bone stuck in the throat

5. Gastric Issues (Gas, Bloating, Acidity, Constipation, Piles)

Kali Carb has also proved successful in managing numerous gastric concerns. The most important being excessive gas in abdomen. Persons feels whatever he has eaten has turned into gas. Stomach is bloated. Eating or drinking even in small quantity creates fullness in stomach. It feels as if stomach would burst from gas. The gas feels obstructed, and navel pain can be present. This medicine suits elderly people who suffer from acidity, stomach burning and bloating. It can be used for cases of sour belching. Vomiting may occur of sour matter. It is also valuable to treat constipation that occurs specifically during or after menses. Women having constipation after difficult childbirth can also be given this medicine. Another prominent indication to use it is large piles. These are painful and very sensitive to touch. There is intense burning in them. These may bleed too.

Key Indicating Features

Excessive gas in abdomen with bloating

Acidity, stomach burning and bloating in elderly people

Constipation in woman after difficult childbirth

Large piles with pain, burning and sensitivity

6. Male Problems (Gonorrhoea, Involuntary Seminal Emissions, Low Libido)

Many of the male problems can also be treated with Kali Carb. Among these, the first is long-term gonorrhoea (sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae). In such cases, burning during and after urination is marked. There is also scanty urethral discharge. It also covers involuntary seminal emissions followed by weakness. It also helps cases of low libido (low sex drive).

Key Indicating Features

Gonorrhoea with burning urination and scanty urethral discharge

Involuntary seminal emissions followed by weakness

Low sex drive

7. Female Problems (Supressed Menses, Heavy Menses, PMS)

If we talk of female problems, then Kali Carb is an important medicine to manage late and suppressed periods (amenorrhea). The menses do not appear for many months altogether. Back pain may occur. It is also indicated for prolonged and profuse menses. The blood is bright red. After excessive bleeding there may occur constant oozing of blood with intense back pain. It is also effective for PMS (premenstrual syndrome) cases. For using it here the main symptoms are swelling in breast and retention of fluid. Lastly, it is given for cases of vaginal discharge with burning, itching and labour-like pains.

Key Indicating Features

Suppressed menses for many months together

Prolonged and profuse periods with back pain

PMS (premenstrual syndrome) to manage swelling in breast and retention of fluid

Vaginal discharge with burning, itching and labour-like pains.

8. Joints (Joint Inflammation, Joint Pain)

With its action on joints, Kali Carb helps in treating joint inflammation (arthritis). Persons needing it feel sharp pains in joints. It worsens at night. There may be pain in shoulder especially right side. Movement and mere touching of the shoulder may aggravate the pain. Cracking may occur in this joint on moving or raising the arm. This medicine is significant to manage knee joint pain. Tearing type of pain is felt in the knee. Climbing stairs and going downstairs, both are difficult for the suffferer. Pain may specifically occur inside the knee, walking worsens it. It has marked affinity for managing hip joint disease. This medicine can also manage joint inflammation in small joints with deformities.

Key Indicating Features

Joint inflammation with sharp joint pain at night

Shoulder pain worse from motion and touch

Knee pain worse from going up and down stairs, walking

Small joint inflammation with deformities

9. Heart (Fatty Degeneration Of Heart, Palpitations, Endocarditis)

Lastly, it works well to manage many heart complaints too. Here it can be used to manage cases of fatty degeneration of heart. Another indication is palpitations. These get worse from the slightest exertion. The palpitations are violent. Besides, it is also indicated for cases of endocarditis (inflamed inner lining of heart) and stitching heart pain through to scapula.

Key Indicating Features

Fatty degeneration of heart

Palpitations from little exertion

Endocarditis

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints in general get worse from cold air exposure, in cold weather, between 2:00 am to 4:00 am and from exertion.

Relieving factors: Complaints get better in warm weather, open air and from moving about.

Dosage

It can be used in 30C and even higher potencies. The potency and repetition vary from case to case. In general, low potencies can be repeated often but higher cannot be repeated frequently.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Camphor, Coffea Cruda and Helonias

Followed well by Fluoric Acid, Nitric Acid, Arsenic Album, Carbo Veg, Lycopodium, Phosphorus, Pulsatilla and Sepia.

 

The homeopathic medicine Phytolacca Decandra is prepared from plant named ‘poke root’ or ‘red ink plant’. It belongs to the family Phytolaccaceae. The fresh root, ripe berries, and fresh leaves of this plant are used to prepare the medicine via the potentization process. Through this process, the medicinal properties of the plant are extracted and intensified into an important homeopathic medicine Phytolacca Decandra. It is highly effective in treating cases of sore throat, tonsillitis, and certain breast complaints among which the main ones are breast inflammation and breast lumps. It is also one of the best medicines for hard nodes/lumps in any of the body part, swelling, inflammation and hardness in glands.

The ‘Phytolacca Decandra’ Constitution

This medicine is most suitable for people who are predisposed to suffer from joint inflammation and have sensitivity to damp weather. It also suits those who have a tendency to develop cancer.

Drug Action

Phytolacca mostly acts well on the throat, tonsils, breasts, and glands. It also acts well on limbs, joints, and muscles, especially on the shoulder, and arms. Besides these, it works wonders on eyes, teeth, and male and female genitals.

Clinical Indications

Tonsillitis, sore throat, breast-related issues, lumps on the breast, breast inflammation (mastitis), painful nipples, gland disorders, enlarged glands, obesity, boils, difficult dentition, mumps, joint inflammation, orchitis (testes inflammation), syphilis and leucorrhoea.

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Throat Complaints (Sore Throat, Tonsillitis)

Phytolacca acts best on the throat. It is one of the best-suited medicines to treat tonsillitis and sore throat, especially on the right side. Among those who need it, the patient presents dark red or bluish-red discoloration of throat. The tonsils are swollen, enlarged and appear bluish, dark purple or dark red. Though it works amazingly well in cases of tonsillitis on either side but most importantly its use is indicative for tonsillitis on the right side. There is marked presence of burning pain in the throat. Intense burning is felt as if occurring from the touch of red hot coal or red hot iron. There is roughness, rawness and scraping sensation in throat. Pain in throat radiating to the ears is a characteristic feature. Shooting and excruciating pain is felt in the ear mainly on swallowing. There is extreme pain and difficulty in swallowing, even water cannot be swallowed. A person cannot drink anything hot as it increases pain. A lump or plug-in-throat sensation is felt resulting in a constant need to swallow. Ulcers in throat or on tonsils can be present. There is excessive dryness in throat. Enlargement of uvula may be present. Thick yellow or white mucus is present in the throat with foul breath. Its use is also suggested in cases of Quinsy also known as peritonsillar abscess (refers to pus-filled pocket near tonsils). This medicine is also indicated for managing post-nasal discharge (dripping of mucus from back of nose into the throat). The mucus from posterior nares is detached with difficulty. There is a continuous urge to hawk and clear the throat.

Key Indicating Features

Sore throat with dark red or bluish-red discoloration

Tonsillitis with swollen, enlarged, bluish, dark purple or dark red tonsils mainly on the right side

Intense burning sensation in throat is felt

Throat pain extends to ears mainly when swallowing

Post nasal discharge with difficulty to detach mucus from posterior nares

 2. Breast Complaints (Breast Pain, Mastitis, Breast Lumps, Breast Abscess, Cracked Nipples, Nipple Pain, And Galactorrhea)

It also acts well on breast and has affinity to treat numerous complaints related to breasts. It effectively manages complaint of breast pain, tenderness, breast inflammation (mastitis), breast lumps, breast abscess cracked nipples, pain in nipples and galactorrhea. There is mastitis (inflammation of breast) with pain, tenderness, swelling, stiffness, intense burning, and much sensitivity. It has marked tendency to manage mastitis that occurs few days after childbirth. Its use is highly recommended in cases of breast lumps/tumors. Here its use is preferred when nodes are hard, painful and may be attended with enlarged axillary glands. For breast abscess (pus-filled lump), it is used when there is pus discharge. It can be given to manage soreness and pain in nipples among nursing mothers. The nipple pain in such cases travels to the entire body at the time the child is being administered breast feed. It can also manage well hardness of breasts after weaning. It is also suited well to heal cracks as well as ulcers on nipples. Phytolacca Decandra can help manage galactorrhea cases when accompanied with excessive weakness. Galactorrhea is a milky discharge from nipple not related to breastfeeding. Phytolacca can help to alleviate pain in breast felt especially during menstrual period. In homeopathic literature, its use for managing cases of breast cancer is also well recorded. Here it can be used when there is stiffness of breast along with purplish discoloration, with shooting pain, also lancinating in nature along with intense weakness.

Key Indicating Features

Inflammation of breast with pain, tenderness, swelling, hardness, intense burning and much sensitivity

Mastitis following few days after childbirth

Breast lumps/tumours that are hard, painful  and may be attended with enlarged axillary glands

Sore and painful nipples in nursing women when nipple pain extend to whole body when child is taking breast milk

Cracks on nipples

Breast pain during menstrual period

Breast cancer with hardness of breast along with purplish discoloration and shooting, lancinating pain and weakness.

3. Glands (Swelling, Inflammation And Hardness)

Phytolacca is a great glandular remedy that has marked action on glands. The salient feature for its use are swollen glands with intense hardness and inflammation with much heat and burning sensation. The burning sensation gets worse during the night.  The most common spots for it to act are parotid gland, submaxillary gland, neck glands, axillary glands and mammary gland in breast. Its action on salivary glands is well known. It is very effective in managing mumps (viral infection affecting salivary glands)

Key Indicating Features

Swollen, hard and inflamed glands with heat and burning sensation

Mumps (viral infection of salivary glands)

4. Limbs (Joint Pain, Muscle Pain)

Phytolacca Decandra works magnificently to manage joint inflammation, and joint pain. The most striking feature is shooting, lancinating, electric shock-like pain that travels quickly from one joint to another. The joints are red, and swollen along with pain. The pain in the joint gets worse in the mornings. It is also beneficial in cases of shoulder joint pain, mainly on the right side, particularly, if the pain is shooting. Along with this, stiffness occurs in the shoulders, and the person is unable to raise the arm. It is useful if there is pain in the fingers with stiffness, shiny and marked swelling. It also helps if there is pain in the hip joint, particularly, on the left side. The pain worsens when it is warm, and in damp weather. Apart from this, its use in relieving knee pain is also noteworthy. It is suitable when knee pain is on the right portion of the knee and gets worse when exposed to air. It is also felt more in damp weather. Lastly, it is the best-suited medicine for muscle pain, especially, for shoulders and arms. Muscle soreness all over the body can also be managed with it.

Key Indicating Features

Shooting, lancinating, electric shock-like joint pain quickly shifting from one joint to another

Joint pain in morning

Muscle pain in shoulders and arms

5. Eyes (pain, burning, lachrymal fistula)

This medicine helps manage burning and smarting sensation in eyes wonderfully well. It can also help when there is excessive watering in the eye that feels warm. Gritty sensation under the eyelids or sandpaper-like sensation under it can be felt along with soreness and burning. Its use is also recommended to manage the eye pain that gets worse from exposure to light and upon movement. Besides, it can be administered in cases of lachrymal fistula.

Key Indicating Features

Burning and smarting sensation in eyes

Excessive eye watering that is hot

Eye pain that is worse from light and motion

6. Teeth (Difficult Dentition)

This medicine can prove to be very effective in cases of difficult dentition. Children who require it have a constant desire to grind their teeth or bite on something hard. They are very irritable, feel like crying, and restless, and have fever. Inflammation of gums in also present.

Key Indicating Features

Difficult dentition with a desire to bite teeth together or bite on something hard.

Irritable, restless crying child with fever during dentition.

7. Male Problems (Orchitis, Syphilis)

Males can find this medicine useful in complaints pertaining to orchitis particularly when complications arise due to pus formation. Orchitis refers to inflammation of testis. It can help in both recent as well as long-term cases of orchitis along with pus formation. An important indication is stiffness of testis along with pain. This medicine is well indicated for syphilis (a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria treponema pallidum) cases with ulcers on genitals.

Key Indicating Features

Testis inflammation (orchitis) complicated with pus formation

Hard, painful testis

Syphilis with genital ulcers

8. Female Problems (Vaginal Discharge, Ovarian Pain)

In females, other than breast issues, it can also manage some other complaints very effectively. Among these, is leucorrhoea (vaginal discharge). The discharge is thick, profuse and irritating. It can also deal with frequent and heavy menstruation. Lastly, it is useful for ovarian pain on the right side.

Key Indicating Features

Thick, profuse and irritating vaginal discharge

Ovarian pain of  the right-side

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse in damp, cold weather, weather changes and rain, from movement, touch, and after swallowing hot drinks

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from warmth, rest and in dry weather

Dosage

It use is recommended in both low and high potencies which is selected individually on a case-to-case basis. If used in low potency it can be repeated often as per the complaint while high potencies should not be repeated frequently.

Relationship With Other Remedies

It antidotes: Belladonna and Mezereum

It can be compared with medicines Bryonia, Rhus Tox, Merc Sol and Arum Triphyllum

 

Homeopathic medicine Paris Quadrifolia is prepared from a plant ‘one berry’ and ‘herb paris’. It belongs to the family Trilliaceae. The whole plant when in fruit is potentized as per homeopathic formula that extracts and intensifies its medicinal properties. It becomes a homeopathic medicine Paris Quadrifolia of great value in treating certain health concerns. It is an important medicine to manage neck pain and numbness in the fingers.

 Drug Action

It mainly acts well on the neck and back. It also acts well on head, eyes, mouth, throat, larynx and the gastric system.

Clinical Indications

Neck pain, neck stiffness, cervical spondylosis, brachial neuralgia (severe pain in shoulder and upper arm accompanied with upper arm weakness), acidity, weak digestion, headache, neuralgia and hoarseness of voice.

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Neck & Back (Neck Pain, Back Pain, Tail Bone Pain)

This medicine shows its action well on the neck and the back. It effectively manages cases in which there is pain in the neck on both sides. The pain from the neck radiates to the shoulders and reaches the fingers. Along with this, a weight or heavy load is felt in the neck and also across the shoulders. Stiffness in the neck is also present. Numbness in the fingers along with neck pain is a very important symptom to administer this medicine. It is the best medicine for cervical spondylosis when neck pain is attended with numbness in fingers. Those needing it have worsening of neck pain from exertion. They feel relief in the pain by taking rest. A heated sensation in the neck extending down the back is also its main indication. Weakness in the neck muscles can be felt in addition to the above symptoms. Another symptom that guides its use is pain in the back felt on stooping. There occurs a sensation of a load pressing on the back. Lastly, it is a wonderful medicine to help cases of pain in the coccyx i.e, the tailbone. It is well-indicated for managing pulsating or stitching nature of pain in the tailbone felt while sitting.

Key Indicating Features

Neck pain radiating to shoulders or fingers

Neck pain attended with numbness of fingers

Neck pain from exertion

Feeling of weight or heavy load in the neck and across the shoulders

Coccyx (tailbone) pain on sitting

2. Head (headache)

Paris Quadrifolia manages headaches quite well. It also benefits if the pain is felt in the back of head (occiput) and there is a weight-like sensation. It also works well in case there is pain in the eyes extending to the back of head as if pulled by a string. Another characteristic feature to use this medicine is when headache worsens merely by thinking about it. Another indication for its use is if there is pain in the head after smoking tobacco. Along with the above symptoms, one may feel as if the head is distended and enlarged.

Key Indicating Features

Pain in the back of head with sensation of a weight

Headache with pain in eyes extending to the back of head as if pulled by a string

Headache gets worsen merely by thinking about it

Headache from smoking tobacco

 3. Eyes (eyeball pain, double vision, heaviness, burning pain)

It offers relief from pain in the eyeballs that occurs as a result of slight motion. There is pain in the eyes as if there is an inward pull into the head.  It is also administered if the eyes feel too large. It can be administered if one encounters double vision or upon seeing one object as two. It is also used in case one reports pain of the burning nature in the eyes. In such cases, eyes normally go watery after waking up in the morning. Another indication for its use is the feeling of heaviness in the eyes.

Key Indicating Features

Eyeball pain from least motion

Eye pain with inward pull

4. Mouth (Dryness, Coated Tongue)

It manages well cases of dry mouth and tongue or coated tongue. There is excessive dryness of the mouth and tongue upon waking in the morning. There is white coating on the tongue with roughness and absence of thirst. There can be bitter taste in the mouth or reduced sense of taste.

Key Indicating Features

Dry mouth and tongue on awaking

White coated tongue with roughness and no thirst

5. Throat And Larynx (Sore Throat, Pain, Hoarseness)

It acts on the throat and larynx quite well. It can manage well complaints of sore throat. There is pain in throat while talking or swallowing. The pain may radiate to the ears as well. Burning pain is felt in the throat while eating or drinking. It can be used in cases when there is hawking of tough, green mucus. It can be administered in cases of hoarseness of voice with a burning sensation in the larynx (voice box).

Key Indicating Features

Sore throat with pain on talking and swallowing

Hawking of tough, green mucus

Voice hoarse with burning in the larynx

6. Gastric Issues (Stomach Heaviness, Burning, Cramps, Loose Stool)

Lastly, it acts wonderfully on the gastric system to manage stomach heaviness, burning sensation, weak digestion and stomach cramps. The stomach heaviness gets better with burping. There is burning in the stomach that extends to the lower abdomen. Cramps are felt in the stomach. It is also useful to relieve one from griping pain in the abdomen. Lastly, it also helps well to manage complaints of loose stool that have a fetid smell.

Key Indicating Features

Stomach heaviness better from burping

Burning in stomach extending to the lower abdomen

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from touch, mental exertion, and upon mere thought about health issues.

Relieving Factors: One gets better from rest and pressure.

Dosage

It can be used in both low and high potencies. It is a medicine which acts for a short duration of two to four days. In low potencies, it can be repeated often but frequent repetition in high potencies should be avoided.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Coffea Cruda

Followed well by: Calcarea Carb, Ledum Pal, Lycopodium, Nux Vomica, Pulsatilla, Phosphorus, Rhus Tox, Sepia and Sulphur

 

The remedy Dolichos Pruriens is derived from a plant named Mucuna pruriens. It belongs to family Leguminosae. This plant bears fruit pod covered with bristly hair. This pod is used to prepare homeopathic medicine Dolichos. When the pod of this plant undergoes potentization (a process of preparing homeopathic medicines that arouses medicinal properties of a crude substance), it is converted into a magnificent homeopathic medicine Dolichos Pruriens. With its brilliant action on skin, it gives marvellous results in case of skin itching particularly when there are no associated eruptions or rash with it.

Drug Action

Dolichos Pruriens seems to act especially on the skin. Besides these, its action is noted on throat, gums, gastric system and liver.

Clinical Indications

Itching, senile pruritis, herpes zoster, neuralgia, jaundice, sore throat, gums pain, colic, constipation, piles, hepatitis

 Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Skin Concerns (Itching, Burning, Herpes Zoster)

If we have to pick the most important site of action of Dolichos, it would be skin. The principal action of Dolichos is noted on the skin. It is extensively used in treating various skin problems. Primarily it is a sovereign remedy for managing intense itching on the skin when there are no eruptions or rashes associated with it. Skin itching without eruptions or any rash calls unmistakably for use of this Dolichos. In cases needing this medicine, skin itching is present all over the body but is worse on the shoulders, knees, elbows and the hairy parts. Itching gets worse at night, is very intense and prevents the sufferer from falling asleep. Scratching worsens the itching. There is some relief in itching from cold water application. Burning is also felt on the skin in bed at night which is intolerable. This medicine has been found to be very effective in cases of senile pruritis which means skin itching in the elderly people. Its use is further applicable in management of cases of Herpes Zoster (also known as Shingles) that refers to a viral infection caused by varicella zoster virus resulting in a very painful skin rash with blisters means fluid – filled bumps.

In cases needing it, pain begins under the left shoulder blade followed by eruptions in the armpit on the same side. It then spreads towards the sternum and backwards towards the spine. It is accompanied by excessive burning and smarting sensation. It is also an excellent medicine for cases where nerve pain persists following Shingles even when the rash has been already healed. This condition is medically known as Postherpetic Neuralgia. Lastly, it is well indicated for cases of jaundice attended with intense itching of skin. The skin is yellow in spots and itching is worse at night in such cases.

Key Indicating Features

Intense itching on the skin without any eruptions/rash

Senile pruritis (itching in the elderly)

Herpes Zoster with excessive burning and smarting

Jaundice attended with intense skin itching

2. Throat Problems (Throat Pain)

Next comes the action of Dolichos on the throat. Here it is well-indicated for cases of throat pain that gets worse from swallowing. The pain is marked below the angle of lower jaw on the right side. It feels as if a splinter is embedded in that spot. The throat may feel rough as well. In some cases needing it, there occurs pain in the right side of throat with a contracted sensation that goes to the left side.

Key Indicating Features

Throat pain below angle of lower jaw on right side with the sensation of splinter embedded in that spot

Pain in right side of throat with a contracted sensation that goes to left side

3. Dental Complaints (Toothache, Pain In Gums)

It can effectively deal with certain dental complaints. It is a well-indicated medicine for relieving pain in a decayed tooth. It is a dull aching sort of pain, especially on the right side.  It can help to manage pain in the gums. The pain is intense that prevents sleep. It is of great help in managing soreness and tenderness of the gums in teething children. The child feels irritation in the gums and wants the gums to be rubbed continuously during dentition.

Key Indicating Features

Dull, aching pain in the decayed teeth on right side

Gum pain hindering sleep

Sore, tender gums in teething children

Irritation in gums during dentition with constant desire to rub the gums

4. Gastric Issues (Pain, Constipation, Piles, Worms, Hepatitis)

By acting on gastric system it proves useful in cases of swollen, bloated abdomen with constipation. It works well in cases of bruised pain in left inguinal region and also below the navel. It acts well on the rectum and gives good relief in cases of constipation and piles (swollen, enlarged veins in or around anus or in lower rectum) complaint. It can be given in constipation cases when attended with intense itching. Constipation may be accompanied with liver complaints. In piles, it can be used when burning sensation is marked. It is also helpful in cases of worms, especially threadworms. Use of this medicine is also recommended for liver complaints. It can manage well cases of liver inflammation (hepatitis). The liver is swollen with pain going through from left lobe.

Key Indicating Features

Swollen, bloated abdomen with constipation

Bruised pain in left inguinal region and also below the navel

Constipation with intense itching

Swollen liver with pain going through from left lobe

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse at night, on right side, from scratching

Dosage

It can be used in both low and high potencies. Its low potencies can be repeated often while frequent repetition of high potencies should be avoided.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Aconite

In case of skin complaints its comparison can be done with medicines Rhus Tox and Fagopyrum

It can be compared with medicines Hepar Sulph, Argentum Nitricum and Nitric Acid in throat complaints.

 

The remedy Kali Muriaticum is derived from potassium chloride. Potassium chloride is inert in its crude state and when it goes through potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines via which medicinal properties of a crude substance are aroused), it gets converted into a brilliant homeopathic medicine Kali Muriaticum. It is one of the 12 biochemic medicines in homeopathy also known by the name of Schuessler’s twelve tissue remedies. Its use is highly recommended for cases of ear infection, cold and sore throat. Complaints attended with thick white discharges is one of the marked indications pointing towards its use.

Drug Action

This medicine’s chief action is noted on the ears, nose and throat. It also manifests its action on head, mouth, respiratory system, limbs and joints.

Clinical Indications

Ear disorders, otitis externa, otitis media, eustachian tube congestion, otorrhoea, cold, nasal congestion, epistaxis, sore throat, tonsillitis, headache, dandruff, sinusitis, mouth ulcers, oral thrush, stomatitis, cough, bronchitis, joint pains

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Ear Complaints (Ear Infection, Ear Discharge, Blocked Eustachian Tube, Noises In Ear)

Kali Muriaticum acts magnificently on the ears and is of special service in treating numerous ear-related problems. It is a superior remedy in treating cases of infection of outer ear canal (otitis externa also known as swimmer’s ear) and middle ear infection (otitis media). It is mainly used when white discharge comes out from the ears. Ear discharge is medically known as otorrhoea. Ear ache and difficulty in hearing are also felt due to swollen and congested middle ear. Swelling of the glands around the ear may be noted as well. It acts favourably on the eustachian tube (a thin tube that connects the throat to middle ear). Kali Muriaticum can manage cases of blocked, sore and swollen eustachian tube. In cases of blocked eustachian tube, its use is preferred when there is difficulty in hearing. Along with this there is a sensation of fullness and being plugged in the ears. Noises are felt in ears (tinnitus). Its use is considered mainly for popping or snapping noises in ears. It can also be given for crackling noises that arise when swallowing or when blowing the nose.

Key Indicating Features

Infection of outer ear canal or middle ear

Ear discharge (otorrhoea) of white color

Earache and difficulty in hearing from swollen and congested middle ear

Blocked eustachian tube with difficult hearing, fullness/plug sensation in the ears and noises

Popping or snapping noises in ears or  crackling noises on swallowing / when blowing the nose

2. Nasal Problems (Cold, Frontal Sinusitis, Nasal Bleeding)

Its action is also marked on the nose. Kali Muriaticum has a considerable clinical reputation as a medicine for some of nasal complaints. Among these, it is a powerful medicine to manage cases of cold. The guiding feature to use it in cold is white colored mucus discharge from the nose. The discharge is thick, profuse and along with this sneezing is present. There may be hawking of mucus from posterior nares as well. A stuffed feeling in head is felt. It is also well indicated for frontal sinusitis with white mucus discharge from nose. It is a beneficial medicine to manage cases of bleeding from nose (epistaxis). It occurs mostly in the afternoon or at night. Bleeding especially occurs from the right nostril. Lastly, it can also manage cases of stuffy cold well.

Key Indicating Features

Cold with thick, white, profuse discharge from nose

Frontal sinusitis with white mucus discharge from nose

Nasal bleeding in afternoon or at night

3. Throat Issues (Sore Throat, Tonsillitis)

Kali Mur is highly recommended for managing sore throat . There is greyish-white coating in throat along with ulcers. In cases needing it, there is hawking of thick, white, mucus, cheesy small lumps having bad odor and taste. It is also useful for cases of tonsillitis. There is swelling, inflammation and enlargement of tonsils. The tonsils may be covered with white or whitish grey coating. There is intense pain in the throat while swallowing even water.

Key Indicating Features

Sore throat with greyish white coating in throat along with ulcers

Hawking of thick, white, mucus, cheesy small lumps having bad odor and taste

Tonsillitis – swollen, enlarged tonsils covered white/whitish grey with intense pain when swallowing

4. Head (Headache, Dandruff)

With its action on head, Kali Mur proves highly effective in managing headache. It has a great capacity to relieve sinus headache. Here the characteristic to use it is headache with hawking of white mucus. The frontal sinuses are affected. Along with headache, sneezing and cold is experienced. Its use is indicated for headache accompanied by vomiting of white phlegm. Lastly, it also treats dandruff. It works well mainly when there is excessive dandruff which is white, falling as small flakes. It is attended with scalp itching.

Key Indicating Features

Sinus headache with hawking of white mucus

Headache with vomiting of white phlegm

White dandruff in excess that falls as small flakes with itching

5. Mouth (Ulcers, Oral Thrush, Stomatitis, Coated Tongue)

Kali Mur gives considerable relief in cases of mouth ulcers. Those needing it have ulcers inside the lips and upper surface of tongue. It is accompanied by excessive saliva. It is a prominently indicated medicine for treating cases of oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth). In these cases, it suits well when there are white ulcers in mouth. The breath is very fetid with ulcers. The taste of mouth can be salty or bitter. Besides, Kali Mur is a valuable medicine for treating cases of stomatitis (inflamed, sore mouth). The entire mucus surface of mouth is red with multiple grey ulcers. This medicine is also important for cases where tongue is coated greyish white, thick, sticky and slimy.

Key Indicating Features

Ulcers inside the lips and the upper surface of tongue with excessive saliva

Oral thrush with white ulcers in mouth

Stomatitis with redness of entire mucus membrane of mouth along with multiple grey ulcers

Tongue coated greyish white, thick, sticky and slimy

6. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Bronchitis, Pneumonia)

Kali Mur has a great tendency to relieve cough. Its use is mainly preferred when cough is attended with thick, white sputum expectoration. Its use can be done in managing cases of bronchitis (inflammation of bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs) and pneumonia (inflammation and infection of air sacs of lungs). There is formation of thick white mucus which is hard to cough up. Rattling sounds are heard when air passes through thick, sticky mucus in bronchi.

Key Indicating Features

Cough with thick, white sputum expectoration

Respiratory complaints with thick white mucus formation which is hard to cough up

7. Limbs And Joints (Joint Pains, Chilblains, Stiffness)

In case of joints, Kali Mur is very useful in managing joint pains. In cases needing it, joint pains are mainly felt during movement or at night. Swelling around the joints is well-marked. It can be given to persons who persistently have cold hands and feet. Its use can be done in chilblains cases as well. Lastly, its use is suggested to manage stiffness of hands while writing.

Key Indicating Features

Joint pain during movement or at night with marked swelling

Cold hands and feet

Stiff hands while writing

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from cold drinks, fatty food, in open air and at night

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from cold drinks, rubbing and movement

Dosage

Use of this medicine is recommended in low potency varying from third to twelfth power. Among these, it is most frequently used in 6X potency. In 6X potency, it can be taken three to four times a day depending on the case presentation.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Belladonna, Hydrastis, Calcarea Sulph and Pulsatilla

It can be compared with medicines Kali Bichrome and Hydrastis in case of thick, tough mucus secretions.

In case of joint complaints, it can be compared with medicines Bryonia and Rhus Tox.

Lastly, its comparison is done with medicine Mercurius Dulcis in eustachian tube complaint and ear inflammation.

 

Tuberculinum Bovinum has marked action on lungs and is one of the best homeopathic medicines for managing cases of tuberculosis (bacterial infection of lungs caused by bacteria mycobacterium tuberculosis). Other than this, it works wonders in treating cases of speech delay in children, sore throat and tonsillitis. This medicine is well suited to people who are susceptible to weather changes and have tendency to catch cold easily from the slightest exposure to cold air. In cases needing it, a family history of tuberculosis may be found.

Drug Action

The most prominent action of this medicine is on the respiratory system. Other than this, it acts well on mind, throat, nose, larynx, head and gastric system.

Clinical Indications

Tuberculosis, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, ADHD, mania, speech delay, cold, sore throat, tonsillitis, enlarged adenoids, headache, diarrhea, night terrors, night sweats, weight loss

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Complaints Of The Mind (Speech Delay, ADHD, Depression, Mania)

Action of Tuberculinum is well marked on the mind to successfully treat numerous issues. It is a highly suitable medicine for treating cases of speech delay in children. It is also well-indicated for treating cases of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Children needing Tuberculinum are very restless, hyperactive, and have increased energy levels. They cannot slow down to learn anything and have low concentration or attention levels. They are very obstinate, irritable and over-react to situations. There can be behavioral problems as well. They have a tendency to throw temper tantrums frequently and can be argumentative. This medicine can be used for cases of depression. Here sadness and hopelessness are marked. Fear that something bad will happen may be present. It can manage mania well. The person throws fits of violent anger with a desire to fight and uses abusive language. A destructive tendency may be present.

Key Indicating Features

Speech delay in children

ADHD with restlessness, hyperactivity, low concentration or attention levels

Mania with fits of violent anger, desire to fight, use of bad language, abusiveness, destructiveness

2. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Tuberculosis, Pneumonia, Asthma, Bronchitis)

Tuberculinum has shown great clinical results in a number of respiratory problems like cough and management of asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia and tuberculosis. For cough, it is used mainly when cough is dry and hacking type. It is attended by chill, excessive sweating and weight loss. Cough gets worse during sleep and in evening. Mostly used for dry cough, but it can also be given for cases of cough with expectoration of mucus and pus or blood-tinged sputa. In some cases, expectoration is thick, profuse yellow or yellowish green. This medicine is highly recommended for managing cases of tuberculosis. Here the symptoms are continuous hacking with cough which gets worse at bedtime or on rising, weight loss, excessive weakness, lack of appetite, night sweats, fever in evening, rales (small bubbling or rattling sounds in lungs) in both lungs and breathing difficulty. It is a great medicine for cases of asthma and pneumonia (infection and inflammation of air sacs of lungs). In cases needing it, there is marked cough with rales in lungs. One feels suffocated along with shortness of breath.

Key Indicating Features

Cough dry, hacking type attended with chill, excessive sweating and weight loss

Cough with expectoration of mucus and pus or blood-tinged sputa or thick, profuse yellow or yellowish green mucus

Tuberculosis with hacking cough, weight loss, weakness, appetite loss, night sweats, fever in evening, rales in both lungs and breathing difficulty

3. Throat Complaints (Sore Throat, Tonsillitis)

With its magnificent action on throat, it can successfully handle cases of sore throat and inflamed, enlarged tonsils. Those needing it have a tendency for recurrent sore throat and tonsillitis. There is pain in the throat that extends to the ears. Throat may be dry or there may be mucus in the throat. There is hawking of mucus after eating. Tickling is felt in the throat that excites cough. Throat feels constricted. It is also indicated for managing cases of tuberculosis of larynx (voice box). Lastly, it is beneficial for cases of enlarged adenoids.

Key Indicating Features

Recurrent sore throat and tonsillitis

Tuberculosis of larynx (voice box)

4. Nasal Problems (Cold, Boils)

This medicine acts wonderfully on the mucus lining of the nose in people suffering from  cold. It is a highly suitable medicine for managing cases where tendency to catch cold easily on slightest exposure to cold air is well marked. In cases needing it, there is increased mucus secretion from the nose along with pain in forehead. The secretions are sticky and yellow-green. It suits well cases in which little boils (pus-filled lump under the skin) appear on the nose. They contain green, fetid pus and are extremely painful.

Key Indicating Features

Tendency to catch cold easily on the slightest exposure to cold air

Cold with sticky, yellow-green nasal discharge

Boils on nose containing green fetid pus

5. Head (Headache, Meningitis)

By acting on the head, it proves effective in managing headache. Those needing it have violent pain in head. The sufferer tears hair, beats head with fist out of pain or bang the head on wall/floor. A sensation of an iron band around the head is felt. Headache usually occurs periodically at fixed intervals. Its use is also indicated for managing headache that is worse from study or little mental exertion.

Key Indicating Features

Violent headache with tearing hair, beating head with fist or dashing head on wall or floor

Headache gets worse from study or little mental exertion

6. Gastric Complaints (Abdomen Pain, Tuberculosis, Diarrhea)

Tuberculinum can be given to people suffering from stomach cramps, stomach fullness and belching. It is also used for pain in the navel area with nausea and loose stool. Vomiting may occur after every meal.  This medicine is also indicated for managing abdominal tuberculosis. Here the indications for its use are pain in abdomen with fever, weight loss, and hard enlarged glands in groin. Other than these, it is a valuable medicine for managing sudden diarrhea that occurs early morning. The stool is watery, brown, foul smelling and passed with much force.

Key Indicating Features

Pain in navel area with nausea and loose stool

Abdominal tuberculosis with pain in abdomen, fever, weight loss, hard enlarged glands in groin

Sudden diarrhea that occurs early morning

7. For Fever

Tuberculinum can be used for treating fever that is continuous. There is excessive sweating. There is more sweating at night which stains the clothes yellow. Sweat is marked on the hands and upper body parts. Chills are marked on the back and between shoulders. During chill, there is a desire for fresh air. Heat radiates from the back to the head during the heat stage. Heat occurs in the evening in bed. It is the best medicine for managing fever in tuberculosis.

Key Indicating Features

Fever with chill marked on the back and between shoulders

Excessive sweating worse at night staining the clothes yellow

Heat radiates from back to head, marked in the evening

Fever in persons having tuberculosis

8. Sleep Issues (Sleeplessness, Nightmares, Sweating At Night)

One may find this medicine beneficial for people suffering from sleeplessness. Persons who require it may be sleepless at night or may have a poor, restless sleep. During the day, they feel sleepy. Secondly, its use is recommended for cases of teeth grinding during sleep. Another complaint where it gives good results is nightmares or night terrors. It is helpful for children who wake up in horror or fright along with screaming. The last indication for its use is excessive sweating at night.

Key Indicating Features

Sleeplessness or poor restless sleep with daytime sleepiness

Teeth grinding during sleep

Night terrors in children

Excessive sweating at night

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from weather change, before cold or damp, from exertion, noise, music, evening and night

Relieving factors: Complaints get better in open air and in dry warm weather

Dosage

Use of this medicine can be done in both low and high potencies but in infrequent doses.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Followed well by Psorinum, Hydrastis, Sulphur, Belladonna and Calcarea Carb

It can be compared with other homeopathic medicines including Phosphorus, Silicea, Stannum Met, Psorinum and Lachesis

 

The remedy Kali Bromatum is derived from potassium iodide. To prepare this medicine, potassium iodide undergoes potentization. It is a process of preparing homeopathic medicines by arousing the medicinal properties from a crude substance. With this process, potassium iodide is converted into a very important homeopathic medicine Kali Bromatum. Use of this medicine is recommended in cases of pimples, schizophrenia, sleeplessness and memory weakness.

 Drug Action

Action of this medicine is well marked on skin and mind. It can also handle well cases of sleeplessness and nightmares. Additionally, it acts well on limbs, male and female genitals.

Clinical Indications

Pimples (acne), eczema, psoriasis, sebaceous cyst, schizophrenia, delusions, memory weakness, aphasia, depression, sleeplessness, nightmares, night terrors, sleepwalking, locomotor ataxia, impotency, ovaries disorders, vaginismus, uterine fibroids,

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Skin Problems (Pimples, Eczema, Psoriasis, Sebaceous Cyst)

Kali Bromatum acts magnificently on skin. It yields wonderful results in cases of pimples (acne). Pimples either simple, hard, bluish red or pus-fille,d all can be successfully treated with it. This medicine can be used for pimples on face especially on cheeks and forehead, chest and shoulders. There is itching in the pimples. These pimples may leave scars too. Pimples that appear in young people during puberty can be managed well with this medicine. Females who have worsening of pimples before menses can also be benefitted from this remedy. Its use can also be considered in cases of acne rosacea (a skin condition characterised by redness, flushing of face with prominent blood vessels that may be attended with pimples on the face). This medicine is valuable to treat eczema on legs. In such cases there is oozing from the eczema rash. Another complaint for which it is highly useful is psoriasis (an autoimmune condition with inflammatory patches on the skin covered with silvery white scales). Lastly, it is an important medicine for cases of sebaceous cyst (small fluid filled sac beneath the skin).

Key Indicating Features

Pimples – simple, hard, bluish red or pus filled

Pimples on face especially on cheeks and forehead, chest, shoulders

Pimples leaving scars

Pimples worse before menses

2. Mind Complaints (Schizophrenia, Delusions, Memory Weakness, Aphasia, Depression)

Kali Bromatum has widespread action on mind. It can effectively deal with many of the complaints related to mind. Among these, first comes schizophrenia. It is a chronic brain disorder in which there occur delusions, hallucinations,and disordered thinking which impairs daily functioning. Delusions are fixed, false beliefs that contradict reality. Hallucinations refer to seeing, hearing or smelling things that appear to be real but do not exist in reality. Kali Bromatum is well indicated when there occur delusions of being pursued (of being followed or chased). The delusions of conspiracies (a secret plan to do something harmful) may also be prominent and the sufferer feels his/her life is under threat. It is also indicated for hallucinations of sight where sufferer sees horrible visions.  Secondly, this medicine is useful for cases of weak memory. There may occur confused thoughts. Forgetfulness is marked in the morning when one wakes up. Mistakes may occur when speaking or writing. It is also indicated for amnesia cases (kind of memory loss). It can also help manage cases of aphasia (a language disorder affecting person’s ability to communicate in which ability to speak, write, express and understand language are affected). Kali Bromatum is mainly indicated when a person forgets how to talk and has to be told the word before he can speak. There may also occur inability to express oneself. Another characteristic for its use is nervousness and restlessness. A person cannot sit still and moves about constantly. A peculiar feature is constant motion of hands and fingers. Further its use can be done in case of certain fears. These include fear of being poisoned, of being alone, of own shadow and of getting mad. Apart from these, it proves beneficial for treating cases of depression. Here the guiding feature for its use is depression with persistent sleeplessness and delusions. There may occur fits of uncontrollable weeping, fear of impending destruction and dislike for life. Sadness is marked in the morning on waking up.

Key Indicating Features

Schizophrenia with delusions of being pursued, of conspiracies or hallucinations of sight of horrible visions

Weak memory, forgetfulness in morning on waking, doing mistakes when speaking or writing

Aphasia when a person forgets how to talk and has to be told the word before he can speak

Nervousness, restlessness, inability to sit still and constant motion of hands and fingers

Fear of being poisoned, of being alone, of own shadow, of getting mad

3. Sleep Issues (Sleeplessness, Nightmares, Night Terrors, Sleepwalking)

For some sleep issues, Kali Bromatum proves to be very effective. It gives remarkable results in cases of sleeplessness (insomnia). It is best suited for sleeplessness that occurs from grief or worries. It is also suitable when sleeplessness occurs while recovering from some acute health problem. It is of great value in treating night terrors in children. Horrible dreams appear. There occurs moaning, crying in sleep or the child wakes up screaming. This medicine is also well-indicated for cases of teeth grinding in sleep. Apart from these, it can help in case of sleepwalking (somnambulism) in children.

Key Indicating Features

Sleeplessness from grief or worries

Sleeplessness during recovery period from some acute health problem

Night terrors in children

Teeth grinding in sleep

Ssleepwalking (somnambulism) in children

4. Limbs (Fidgety Hands, Trembling Hands, Locomotor Ataxia)

This medicine is well known for treating cases of fidgety (restless) hands. Here it is used when there is constant motion of hands and fingers. Additionally, it is given in cases of trembling of hands during voluntary motion. Another complaint where it is prominently indicated is weakness of legs with inability to stand erect. Other than this, it is indicated for cases of locomotor ataxia (lack of control over coordination of voluntary movements). Here it works well when there is staggering, uncertain gait.

Key Indicating Features

Fidgety hands with constant motion of hands and fingers

Staggering uncertain gait in locomotor ataxia

5. Male Problems (Effects Of Sexual Excesses, Impotency)

Here Kali Bromatum is prominently indicated to manage effects of sexual excesses. These includes numbness, tingling in limbs, memory loss and impaired coordination. This medicine is indicated to manage impotency (inability to obtain or maintain erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse). It can be given when impotency occurs with decreased sexual desire, sadness, memory loss, and nervous weakness. Contrary to this, it is also indicated for excessive uncontrollable sexual desire in men with constant erections at night.

Key Indicating Features

Numbness, tingling in limbs, memory loss,  impaired coordination from sexual excesses

Impotency with decreased sexual desire, sadness, memory loss, and nervous weakness

Excessive, uncontrollable sexual desire in men with constant erections at night

6. Female Problems (Heavy Menses, Itching, Vaginismus, Cyst, Fibroid)

Kali Bromatum is of great service to manage some health issues in females. First among these is heavy menses (menorrhagia) accompanied with increased sexual desire. On the other hand, it is also indicated when a female has loss of sexual desire and has an aversion to sex. It can effectively deal with cases of itching of external genitals. There is irritation, itching and tingling in external genitals. This medicine could be of great help for cases of vaginismus (tightening of muscles of vagina when something is trying to enter it) as well. Besides, it is indicated for treating ovarian swelling, ovarian cysts. It is also helpful in treating uterine fibroids (non – cancerous growths in uterus).

Key Indicating Features

Heavy menses accompanied with increased sexual desire

Loss of sexual desire and an aversion to sex

Irritation, itching and tingling in external genitals

Ovarian swelling, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from anger, fright, grief, worry, at night, in summer, and from lying down

Relieving factors: Complaints get better when busy

Dosage

Use of this medicine can be done in both low and high potencies. In case of low potencies, it bears repetition well. When using it in high potencies, one should avoid its frequent repetition.

Relationship With Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Camphor, Nux Vomica and Zincum Met

Followed well by: Cactus

It can be compared with other medicines including Aurum Met, Borax, Kali Phos, Hyoscyamus, Gelsemium and Zincum Met

 

Homeopathic medicine Hamamelis Virginiana is derived from the plant ‘witch hazel’. It belongs to family Hamamelidaceae. The fresh bark of twigs and roots of this plant are potentized as per homeopathic formula that extracts and intensifies its medicinal properties. Through potentization process, it becomes a very significant homeopathic medicine Hamamelis Virginiana. It is one of the best homeopathic medicines for treating cases of bleeding piles, varicose veins and controlling bleeding from various body parts (example nose, rectum, gums, etc).

The ‘Hamamelis Virginiana’ Constitution

This medicine is well suited to persons who have a tendency to suffer from complaints related to venous blood congestion, for example piles, varicose veins, etc.

Drug Action

Among its various actions, the two most prominent ones are to control hemorrhage (bleeding) from various organs and reduce venous blood congestion. Its main action is seen on veins of rectum where it is highly suitable to relieve venous congestion and treat bleeding piles and rectal bleeding. Another important action is noted on the veins of legs where it works wonderfully to reduce venous engorgement, abnormal blood accumulation in veins and treats varicose veins. Hamamelis Virginiana manifests its action on skin, nose, mouth, eyes, urinary organs and male and female genitals.

Clinical Indications

Hemorrhages (bleeding), bleeding piles, rectal bleeding, dysentery, anal fissures, varicose veins, varicose ulcers, inflammation of veins, nose bleeding, bleeding gums, varicocele, orchitis (inflammation of testes),  bruises, joint pain, sore pains, eye pain, black eye, iritis, conjunctivitis, intraocular hemorrhage, burns, menstrual disorders, ovaritis (inflammation of ovaries), vaginismus, hematuria (blood in urine).

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Rectal Complaints (Bleeding Piles, Rectal Bleeding, Dysentery, Anal Fissures)

Hamamelis has marked action on rectum where it helps to treat various concerns related to it. It has the highest affinity to treat bleeding piles. Piles are swollen and engorged, inflamed veins in anus and lower rectum. This medicine has shown great clinical improvements when piles bleed profusely. Due to bleeding, intense weakness is felt. It is attended with rawness and soreness of anus. There is fullness and a sensation of weight in rectum. Anal itching is also felt. Stool is constipated and hard. Hamamelis is also well indicated to control rectal bleeding of dark-colored blood from other reasons too, apart from piles. It is a brilliant medicine to help cases of dysentery that refers to intestinal infection causing loose stool with blood and mucus. In such cases, the characteristic feature is the passage of tar-like blood in stool in large amounts. The blood is dark or sometimes clots of blood with mucus is excreted in stool. There is cramping pain around navel before passing stool. Tenesmus (sensation of incomplete defecation even when nothing is left in rectum) is well marked. It is successfully used to manage ulcers in intestine with passage of dark blood. Another complaint where it is beneficial is anal fissures, with excessive pain while passing stool and burning at anus after passing stool.

Key Indicating Features

Bleeding piles that bleed profusely

Rectal bleeding of dark-colored blood

Dysentery with passage of tar-like blood in stool in large amounts

Ulcers in intestine along with passage of dark blood

Anal fissures with intense pain during stool and anal burning after stool

2. Limbs (Varicose Veins, Varicose Ulcers, Inflammation Of Veins, Joint Pain)

This medicine also acts on the limbs where it is most valuable to treat many problems. Among these, it has wide action on veins and it treats well cases of varicose veins (swollen, enlarged, twisted veins), varicose ulcers, and inflammation of veins. In varicose veins, the veins are hard and knotted. Here it is considered when there is excessive pain in the limbs with difficulty in moving about. There is dull dragging pain in legs. Hamamelis is also recommended in cases of varicose ulcers, stinging, burning, biting and pricking is marked. The ulcers are circular, black, and may discharge thin pus with bad smell or blood. For inflammation of veins (phlebitis), it is recommended when there is prickling pain. Besides veins, its action is also noted on joints and muscles. The joints and muscles feel sore. There is pain and stiffness in shoulders. Pain gets worse from motion. Elbow joint is stiff with dull pains. There is lancinating pain in wrist joint especially left side. Among muscles, there is pain in flexor muscles of hands, wrists and fingers. The right biceps muscle feels tender. There is soreness in thigh muscles as if bruised.

Key Indicating Features

Varicose veins that are hard, appear knotted with, dull, dragging sensation and pain in the limbs with difficulty in moving about

Varicose ulcers with stinging, burning, biting and pricking

Varicose ulcers that are circular, black-colored and discharge thin pus with bad smell or blood

Inflammation of veins with prickling pain

Soreness of muscles and joints

3. Eyes (Eye Pain, Black Eye, Iritis, Conjunctivitis, Intra – Ocular Haemorrhage)

With its action on eyes, Hamamelis settles complaints including eye pain, black eye, iritis, conjunctivitis. It is capable to relieve soreness in eyes. For cases of black eye (bruise around the eye from an injury to face or head), it can work wonders. It is effective for cases of iritis (the inflammation of the colored part of iris) and conjunctivitis (inflammation of transparent membrane lining the eyelid and eyeball). In case of inflammation, eyes look bloodshot (look red from congested blood vessels). It can also be given to manage headache from eyestrain.

Key Indicating Features

Soreness in eyes

Black eye

Iritis and conjunctivitis with bloodshot eyes

4. Nose (Nose Bleeding, Sneezing, Cold)

By acting on nose, Hamamelis has a great ability to manage complaints of nose bleeding. It can be used when nasal bleeding is profuse and attended with tightness at the bridge of the nose. A pressure is also felt in the forehead between the eyes. Other than this, its use is considered when there is sneezing with watery discharge from nose that causes burning in nose. Bad smell emanates from nose which also feels blocked.

Key Indicating Feature

Profuse nasal bleeding attended with tightness at the bridge of nose

5. Mouth (Bleeding Gums, Burns)

Hamamelis is of great help in treating bleeding from gums after tooth extraction. It is useful for cases where gums are spongy, sore, painful and bleed frequently and blood is dark-colored. The second important guiding feature to use it is burns on the tongue and lips. A metallic, bloody taste in mouth may accompany.

Key Indicating Features

Bleeding from gums after tooth extraction

Soreness and pain of gums with dark-colored bleeding

Burns on the tongue and lips

6. Male Problems (Varicocele, Testes Pain, Nightly Emissions)

This medicine can treat many male problems magnificently. Hamamelis is one of the best-suited medicine for treating varicocele (enlarged veins within scrotum). It also acts wonderfully to manage inflammation of testes (orchitis) and pain in testes. The testes are swollen, sore and pain gets worse from touch. The pain can be drawing, aching or excruciating type. This medicine is helpful for cases of emissions at night with sexual dreams. This is followed by sadness, weakness and pain in lower back. Its last indication is inflamed urethra (urethritis) with discharge of transparent mucus and pain.

Key Indicating Features

Varicocele

Inflammation of testes and pain worse from motion

Emissions at night with sexual dreams, followed by sadness, weakness and lower backache

6. Female Problems (Heavy Menses, Intermenstrual Bleeding, Ovaritis, Vaginismus)

In women, this medicine can be of great benefit to manage excessive menstrual bleeding of dark blood. There is soreness on abdomen, weakness and pain in lower back. This medicine is highly preferred for managing intermenstrual bleeding too. It acts well in cases of inflammation of ovaries (ovaritis). The pain in ovary can be cutting or tearing type along with swelling and tenderness. Its use is highly indicated for ovaritis resulting from a blow or an injury when soreness is felt in the entire abdomen. Additionally, it can effectively deal with vaginismus (spasm of vaginal muscles when something is trying to enter it) cases. Its use in treating sore, bleeding nipples is also noteworthy.

Key Indicating Features

Heavy menses with dark bleeding, sore abdomen, weakness and pain in lower back

Intermenstrual bleeding

Inflammation of ovaries and ovary pain of cutting or tearing type and swelling and tenderness

Ovarian inflammation after a blow or an injury with soreness in the whole abdomen

7. Urinary Issues (Blood In Urine, Kidney Pain)

Hamamelis is highly valuable for cases of hematuria (blood in urine). This is attended with a frequent urge to urinate. It is an important medicine for managing kidney pain as well. For using it here, the pain is mainly dull aching type.

Key Indicating Feature

Hematuria (blood in urine)

8. Skin (Bruises, Burns, Skin Ulcers, Chilblains)

Lastly, Hamamelis acts on skin to manage various concerns. It is a significant medicine to treat bruises. Bruises means black, blue or purple skin discoloration due to damaged blood vessels under the skin resulting in pooling of blood underneath the skin that typically arises from an injury. Its use is also done in burn cases to alleviate pain. Other than this, it is effective in treating skin ulcers with thin, watery pus having bad odor. Lastly, it is well indicated for chilblains that have turned blue.

Key Indicating Features

Bruises

Burns for pain relief

Skin ulcers with thin, watery pus having bad odor

Chilblains blue in color

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from motion, touch, from exertion and in open air.

Dosage

This medicine works well in both low and high potencies. The potency varies from case to case. In low potencies, it can be repeated frequently. Frequent repetition of high potencies should be avoided.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Arnica, Camphora, China and Pulsatilla

Followed well by: Arnica

 

Homeopathic medicine Gnaphalium Polycephalum is derived from plant commonly known as  ‘old balsam’ or ‘cud-weed’. This plant belongs to family Compositae. This fresh plant undergoes potentization process (process to prepare homeopathic medicines that arouses medicinal powers of a crude substance) to prepare homeopathic medicine Gnaphalium Polycephalum. This medicine is of great service in treating cases of sciatica when pain is attended with numbness. Sciatica refers to pain in lower back going down the hips, back of thigh, legs up to the feet along the path of sciatic nerve.

Drug Action

The foremost and most outstanding action of Gnaphalium is seen on the sciatic nerve. This medicine acts well on legs, joints and back as well. Besides these, its action is marked on the gastric system. Lastly, its action is noted on the female genitals.

Clinical Indications

Sciatica, numbness, backache, joint pains, gout, anterior crural neuralgia, diarrhea, cholera, colic, dysmenorrhea

 Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Limbs (Sciatica, Joint Pains, Cramps, Gout, Anterior Crural Neuralgia)

The action of Gnaphalium is most marked on the limbs. It acts magnificently to manage sciatica. Sciatica refers to a pain that travels along the path of sciatic nerve. The pain marks its beginning in the lower back and then it radiates down the hip, back of thigh, back of leg up to feet. Here the classic symptom indication for its use is pain along sciatic nerve when pain alternates with numbness or pain is followed by numbness. This key symptom is specifically kept in mind when Gnaphalium is recommended for sciatica cases. The pain along sciatic nerve is quite intense where this medicine is required. In limbs, it is the most effective on the joints. A very peculiar sensation when the sufferer needs this remedy is pain in the joints as if they lack oil. In general, pain gets worse from motion, stepping and better by flexing limbs on the abdomen. It is well-indicated to manage pain in the ankle, knee, hip, elbow and shoulder joint. Among these, its action is most prominent on the hip joint. The pain can be cutting, darting or dull in nature. In majority of cases requiring it, pain from the hip joint radiates up to the foot. This pain is worse when lying down, stepping and from motion. It is relieved by sitting in a chair. Gnaphalium is also indicated for cases of gout (inflamed, red, hot, painful, swollen joints from rise in uric acid levels in blood). It works best in case of pain in big toes from gout. Another characteristic indication guiding its use is cramps in the calves (muscle in the back of legs) and feet when in bed. Other than these it is suitable for cases of anterior crural neuralgia. It refers to pain in the front of the thighs from compression of crural nerve (this nerve originates from lumbar nerves and supplies the muscles and skin of front part of the thigh).

Key Indicating Features

Pain along sciatic nerve with pain alternating with numbness or pain followed by numbness

Pain in the joints with sensation as if they lack oil

Pain in the big toes from gout

Anterior crural neuralgia – pain in front of thighs from compression of crural nerve

2. Back (Backache, Numbness)

Another action of Gnaphalium is prominent on the back. It can be used in cases of lower back pain. Persons needing it have relief in this pain from lying on the back. In addition to this, numbness may be felt in the lower back. A sensation of weight is felt in the pelvis.

Key Indicating Features

Lower back pain which gets better from lying on the back

Lower backache accompanied by numbness in the lower back

3. Gastric Troubles (Gas, Colic, Diarrhea, Cholera)

This medicine also acts well on the gastric system. Firstly, it is helpful for relieving gas in the abdomen along with burps of wind and nausea. Secondly, it is beneficial for colicky pains in different parts of the abdomen along with sensitivity to pressure. It can be used in cases of diarrhea. Here it is given when the stools are pale when passed in the morning and day accompanied by irritable temper. It can also be given for copious, watery stool at night with nausea, pain in the bowels and excessive weakness. Lastly, it is well indicated for first stage of cholera (an infection of the small intestine occurring from intake of food or water contaminated with bacteria named vibrio cholerae) with vomiting and diarrhea.

Key Indicating Features

Gas in abdomen along with burps of wind and nausea

Diarrhea when the stools are pale when passed in morning and day accompanied with irritable temper

Copious watery stool at night with nausea, pain in bowels and excessive weakness

First stage of cholera with vomiting and diarrhea

4. Female Problems (Painful Menses)

Here this medicine is effective to manage painful menses (dysmenorrhoea). The guiding feature for its use is painful menses with scanty periods. Pain is most marked on the first day of menses. Fullness and weight in the pelvis is also felt.

Key Indicating Feature

Painful menses with scanty periods

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse in cold damp, from lying and walking

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from sitting in a chair and flexing limbs

Dosage

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

Relationship with Other Remedies

It can be compared with other remedies including Colocynth, Chamomilla, Ipecac, Merc Sol, Pulsatilla, Lycopodium and Xanthoxylum