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Do homeopathic medicines contain steroids or are steroids being used while preparing medicines? Many homeopaths have been asked such questions for long. A simple answer to this is NO. It is just a misbelief that homeopathic medicines contain steroids. These claims defame the homeopathic system of medicine. In this article, we will discuss this issue in more detail. But firstly, let us try to find out what steroids are and what their side effects are.

Are steroids natural or manmade?

Steroids are generally natural chemicals and hormones produced inside the human body naturally for normal physiological functions. These are secreted by the adrenal cortex, testis, and ovaries in the body and by the placenta during pregnancy. Steroids produced by the adrenal cortex are called corticosteroids which includes glucocorticoids such as cortisol and mineralocorticoids and those produced by ovaries and testis are termed sex steroids which include androgens, estrogens, and progestogens.

But steroids are also laboratory-made medicines of two types – corticosteroids and anabolic androgenic steroids. Corticosteroids are a type of anti-inflammatory drugs that doctors prescribe to reduce inflammation promptly in the body. These work by slowing down or suppressing the body’s immune system and reducing the production of chemicals that are causing the inflammation. These are used in treating many health issues like rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, asthma, lupus, multiple sclerosis, myositis, vasculitis, etc. Some examples of corticosteroids are prednisone, cortisone, and methylprednisolone. Anabolic steroids are man-made types of testosterone prescribed by doctors in cases where testosterone is not produced in the body in the right amount leading to medical problems and when a person has muscle mass loss from diseases like AIDS, cancer, etc. These steroids help build up muscles and prevent muscle breakdown.

Side effects of steroids

Though steroids may be life-saving in many health conditions, their overuse is linked with many side effects some of which can be life-threatening. The side effects depend on the type of steroids used, dose and for how long these have been used.

Use of corticosteroids can lead to weight gain, puffiness of the face, difficulty in sleeping, increased appetite, nausea, unwanted hair growth on areas like the face, increased blood sugar levels, rise in blood pressure, blurred vision, mood swings, acne and reduced immunity with increased susceptibility to catch infections because of suppression of the immune system. Their prolonged intake makes one prone to weakening of bones leading to breakage i.e. osteoporosis, muscle weakness, slow growth in kids, diabetes, and adrenal insufficiency which is a life-threatening condition.

Use of anabolic steroids can result in fluid retention, facial hair, male pattern baldness, stunted growth in teenagers, mood swings, aggression and changes in menstrual cycle in females. Due to their overuse, the body may stop producing testosterone leading to decrease in sperm count, reduced size of testicles, breast growth in men and infertility. Their long term consumption can damage the heart, liver and kidneys, and lead to high LDL (low density lipoprotein) increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

What is homeopathy and what types of medicines it uses for healing?

Homeopathy is a 200-year-old system of medicine founded by German physician Dr Samuel Hahnemann based on the law of ‘Similia Similibus Curentur’ or ‘like cures like’.

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), homeopathy is the second largest medical system in the world. It is being practiced in over 84 countries. This globally trusted healing system is used by over 50 crore people worldwide. Homeopathy healing system is well-recognized under AYUSH which includes five alternative healthcare systems i.e. Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy.

Homeopathy is capable of healing many acute and chronic health issues. The medicines used in homeopathic treatment of diseases are all 100 percent natural medicines mainly sourced from plants and minerals with no chemicals or toxins. To date, no side effects have been noticed from the use of these medicines. Prescription of steroids is not allowed in homeopathy and no homeopathic medicine contains any steroid in any form. Only qualified allopathic doctors are allowed to prescribe steroids as required in some cases.

Homeopathy has abundant natural effective medicines, it does not require steroids

Homeopathy itself is a complete healing system highly enriched with a plenty of natural medicines that are very effective in managing health ailments. These can help as great anti-inflammatory medicines with zero side effects as well as no chance of suppression of the immune system. So, why would a homeopath use any steroid as homeopathy is itself blessed with safe, natural remedies that can do only good and no harm.

Quick homeopathic action may raise doubts

Whenever immediate relief in acute conditions occurs with homeopathic medicines, one might anticipate that these medicines may contain steroids as steroids work very quickly beyond imagination. There is also a belief that homeopathy works very slowly and quick relief can never happen with it, so how did I get instant relief? People who raise such doubts are not well versed with homeopathy and its principles, the types of medicines used in it so they might believe homeopathic medicines contain steroids.
Homeopathy works slowly is also a myth. The fact is that when homeopathic medicines are selected accurately based on homeopathic principles with the correct dose and potency, they can work significantly faster than one may think. They start acting as soon as these are absorbed on the tongue with the help of nerve endings. In acute cases like diarrhea, cold, cough, headache, and earache, the signs of improvement may be evident sooner as compared to chronic cases where it may act gradually. How fast these medicines act varies from case to case as per the nature of the disease, the chronicity of the complaint, and individual response to medicine.

If homeopathic medicines contain steroids, there would have been side effects as well

It is a well-known fact that the use of steroids can lead to multiple side effects as mentioned above. So, in case homeopaths would use steroids, then their side effects must follow the use of any homeopathic medicine. But none of these side effects have been ever reported with the administration of any homeopathic medicine.

Laboratory tests to find out presence of steroids in homeopathic medicines

Colorimetric method of testing steroids

A false positive result in this test may raise a question that homeopathic medicines contain steroids. Hence this test should not be followed to confirm steroid presence in homeopathic medicines.
This test is an old method to detect the presence of a steroid in a substance that uses tetrazolium blue salts. A highly-colored compound called Farmazan is produced in the substance on which this test is done if it contains steroids. The presence of a reducing sugar in a substance may lead to a false positive result. Homeopathic pills contain reducing sugars so there is always a chance that the medicine will give a false positive result. Further homeopathic medicines have a slight amount of dispensing alcohol that can give false positive results as well. Such tests cannot be followed for steroid confirmation in homeopathic medicines and pills.

What other tests can be followed for confirmation of steroids? 

The authentic tests to confirm the presence of steroids in homeopathic medicines include the thin-layer chromatography method, the Liebermann Burchard test and the UV absorption method. These tests are the most accurate tests for confirming steroids in any substance. Homeopathic medicines will never show a positive reaction in this test. Also to be noted that only FDA-approved laboratories should be chosen for testing homeopathic medicines as not every laboratory is equipped with appliances to carry out testing.

Conclusion: From the above discussion, it is very clear that homeopathy is a very natural healing system based on fixed principles. Neither do homeopathic medicines contain steroids nor do homeopaths prescribe steroids. We must never believe any hearsay lacking proof in this regard and look for facts in every case before getting convinced about the veracity of any rumors.

Edema also known as dropsy and fluid retention refers to fluid build-up in the tissues of the body. It usually affects legs, feet and ankles though other body parts can also be affected by it like hands, face, eyelids, etc.

Edema can be pitting (when a swollen part of the body has a dimple after one presses it) or non-pitting type. In case of pitting edema when pressure is applied to the affected swollen area, the indentation persists for some time after the pressure is released. In case of non-pitting edema, the indentation goes away immediately after the release of pressure. Edema causes swelling, puffiness in the affected part. The skin above it looks shiny and stretched. Heaviness and pain in the affected area may also occur as also reduced urination.

Edema is given different names depending on the affected body part. When edema affects feet, legs and hands it is known as peripheral edema. When it affects the area around the eyes it is termed periorbital edema. Edema affecting the brain is cerebral edema. Edema that occurs in the lungs is known as pulmonary edema. Fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity is pleural effusion. Another form of it is lymphedema that occurs due to improper functioning of the lymphatic system that hinders normal drainage of the interstitial fluid. Swelling affecting the macula (a part of the eye) refers to macular edema. It occurs as a complication of diabetic retinopathy.

Edema can simply arise from excessive salt intake, sitting or standing for long durations at one place, before appearance of menses as a part of PMS (premenstrual syndrome which refers to a set of symptoms felt few days before onset of the menses), lack of protein in the diet for long time period and obesity. It may also occur during pregnancy. Use of some medicines can as well lead to edema, such as medicines for high blood pressure, steroid medicines, estrogen, NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines). Insect bites can be yet another cause. In other cases, edema tends to result from some underlying medical health conditions some of which could be serious. First condition is a sort of hindrance in the normal functioning of the lymphatic system that normally helps in draining extra fluid from the tissues. Damage to the lymph nodes can lead to it. Next condition is varicose veins that occur from damage to valves of veins in the legs that cause pooling of blood in the legs and lead to swelling. Another cause can be dermatitis (skin inflammation with redness, dryness, itching and in some cases fluid filled eruptions i.e, blisters). Besides these, some serious causes include DVT (deep vein thrombosis that refers to blood clot in deep vein/veins of the body mostly in the legs that can cause swelling and pain in the leg), severe allergic reaction, kidney damage, congestive heart failure, liver damage and some types of cancer.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is very helpful in managing the cases of edema. It helps manage this complaint naturally with the use of natural medicines so there is no worry about its side effects. The most suitable homeopathic medicine is prescribed symptomatically for every individual case separately after detailed case evaluation. It is advised to get every case evaluated by a homeopath and take medicines under the supervision of a doctor. Self-medication should not be practiced at all. In some cases, edema may result from some serious health problems like heart complaints, liver/kidney damage, DVT, so one should always consult a doctor to rule out the cause and follow appropriate treatment. Homeopathy is recommended only in mild cases without any serious cause linked to it. In case edema is linked to serious causes, immediate help from conventional mode of treatment should be taken as homeopathy has its limits in helping serious cases recover.

Homeopathic medicines for Edema

1. Apis Mellifica – Topmost Medicine

Apis Mellifica is one of the best homeopathic medicines to manage edema. The most characteristic feature to use this medicine is puffiness in different body parts accompanied by redness and stinging pain. The affected parts are also sore to touch. Intolerable heat is felt on the affected part.  It offers a big help in managing edema of the legs, feet and ankles. The legs and feet look waxy and pale.

It is very effective to manage puffiness around the eyes. The skin on the eyelids also feels tight with this. Stiffness is also felt in the eyelids. An accompanying feature is a burning sensation. Apis Mellifica is also beneficial to manage puffiness on the face which may look pale and waxy. Another sign for its use is swelling of the hands. There is also heat and redness on the hands. When pressure is applied on hands white spots appear that go away gradually. It is also topmost medicine to manage swelling that is seen after insect bites and stings.

2.  Rhus Tox – For Edema Of Eyelids

This medicine is suitable for managing edema of the eyelids. Those who need it, show symptoms of red eyelids and hot tears flow from the eyes. At times, there may be the presence of yellow mucus discharge from the eyes. Next, there may be burning pain in the eye and also difficulty in opening the eyelids in some cases. Redness of the face can be a presenting factor. Besides the above, this medicine is administered when there is redness on the skin with vesicles (tiny fluid-filled eruptions) with edema.

3. Arsenic Album – For Swollen Face, Eyelids, Feet And Legs

Arsenic Album is a very useful medicine for managing edema of the face and the eyelids. Those who need it have swollen eyelids. Initially, swelling occurs on the upper eyelid followed by the lower lid. Next, it is helpful in case of edema of the feet and the legs. Along with swelling, a burning sensation is felt on the feet. The feet look shiny with reddish spots. Excessive weakness is also visible.

4. Acetic Acid – For Edema Accompanied By Excessive Thirstiness

Acetic Acid is a well-indicated medicine for managing edema with excessive thirst for water. This medicine is most prominently indicated for managing swelling of the legs. The skin looks pale and waxy with swelling. This medicine is also indicated for edema of legs, feet, or arms linked with anemia. Excessive weakness is present where this medicine is required. This medicine is also very effective for managing swelling that appears along with varicose veins.

5. Lycopodium – For Edema Of Legs With Oozing Of Watery Fluid

This medicine is administered for edema of the legs accompanied by oozing of watery fluid from the same spots. There are ulcers on the legs. These are accompanied by itching and burning sensations. This gets worse at night. Tearing pain in the legs is also an accompanying factor. Edema of the feet may also be present. Along with this, there is a burning sensation felt on the soles. Excessive sweat with a foul smell on the feet is present. The feet can be sore.

6. Pulsatilla – To Manage Swelling On Legs In Varicose Veins / Inflamed Veins

This medicine is very valuable to manage swelling of the legs due to varicose veins and inflamed veins. Those who require it present with swelling in the legs and thighs. There is difficulty in moving the legs. Along with this, there is also dull pain felt in the legs. The feet are also swollen. There is also redness of feet. The feet feel heavy. A burning type of pain and a drawing sensation is felt on the feet. There is an urge to stretch your feet while sitting. A tingling sensation while standing may also be felt. This can get better as one starts walking.

Puffiness under the eyes, also called bags under the eyes, is a very common problem. It refers to swelling under the eyes. Depending on the cause of puffiness, it can be accompanied by other symptoms like eye discharge, itchy eyes, watering from eyes, redness of eyes and dry eyes. In some cases, this may occur temporarily for some reasons like excessive salt intake, lack of sleep, excessive crying and over-rubbing of the eyes. Puffiness under the eyes can also be a part of aging as well.

Next, this may also happen due to injury to the eye. Puffiness could also occur due to several medical reasons. First among these are several eye conditions. These include eye infections, stye, conjunctivitis (pink eye), periorbital cellulitis, and tear duct blockage. Stye refers to a painful, red lump located at the edge of the eyelid that is frequently pus-filled. Conjunctivitis refers to inflammation of the conjunctiva which is the transparent membrane that lines the eyelids and eyeball.

Periorbital cellulitis indicates an inflammation and infection of the skin and soft tissue surrounding the eyes. Tear duct blockage refers to partial or complete obstruction in the drainage system of tears from eyes. Another cause behind puffiness can be Grave’s disease. It is an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland.  In this condition, there is an increased production of thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism). Yet another cause can be allergies. Eyes may become red along with watering and itching in allergy cases from an over–reaction to allergens such as dust, pollens and molds. Along with this, fluid may accumulate around the eyes that leads to swelling under the eyes. In some cases, a severe allergic reaction may lead to serious condition called anaphylaxis in which the face gets swollen along with other signs including hives (itchy bumps forming on the skin called wheals), swelling of the airways, problems in breathing, wheezing, confusion, fast heart rate, dizziness, a drop in blood pressure and fainting. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that can turn fatal, so it needs to be treated immediately. Dermatitis could be one other cause behind puffiness under the eyes. Dermatitis is a skin condition characterized by inflamed, dry, red and itchy skin. Besides, puffiness under the eyes may also result from renal, liver or heart diseases that need to be treated carefully.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines are very effective to manage puffiness. These medicines are of natural origin that aid natural recovery with zero side-effects. With its use the problem of bulging skin gradually starts to cure. Along with the puffiness, these medicines also manage any associated signs and symptoms like eye redness, watering from the eyes, itching in the eyes and dryness of the eyes. The homeopathic medicines for puffiness under the eyes are prescribed based on the characteristic symptoms in every individual case. So, it is advised to take any homeopathic medicine under supervision of a homeopath and avoid self–medication. In case puffiness occurs from some serious cause like severe eye infections, some kidney or heart-related problem or anaphylaxis reaction, etc, immediate help from conventional mode of treatment should be sought as homeopathy has its limitation to handle such serious cases.

Homeopathic Medicines For Puffiness Under Eyes

1. Apis Mellifica – Top Grade Medicine

Apis Mellifica tops the list of homeopathic medicines for managing cases of puffiness under the eyes. The lower lids are very much swollen among those who need this medicine. There is a water bag-like swelling under the eyes. The eyelid margins are very red. Burning and stinging pain in the eyes is one of the most prominent accompanying symptoms present. Shooting pain can occur in the eyes. Next, there may be redness of the conjunctiva. Sensitivity to light may also be there. Watering from the eyes can occur which is hot. This medicine is one of the best-suited medicines for managing puffiness of the eyelids in cases of allergies.

 2. Euphrasia – For Puffiness Under Eyes With Excessive Eye Watering

Euphrasia is another highly effective medicine that manages several eye-related concerns. It also works effectively to manage swelling under the eyelids. This is prominently accompanied by excessive watering of the eyes which happens all the time. A burning sensation in the eyes is also marked. Intense itching of the eyelids is also present. There may also occur a sensation of sand or dust-like particles in the eyes. Sometimes sticky mucus flows from the eyes. Cutting pain in the eyes is sometimes felt. The eyelid margins are also red and swollen.

3. Kali Carb – For Swelling Under And Above The Eyes

Kali carb is the next prominent medicine for cases of excessive swelling under the eyes. In cases requiring this medicine, there occurs big bag-like swelling under the eyes. The swelling extends above the eyes as well in most of the cases. There may be pain in the eyes accompanied by eye-watering. The nature of pain is stitching-type. There may be sensitivity to light. Smarting and burning may be felt in the eyes. There can be redness on the edges of the eyelids. The eyelids are swollen and may get stuck together in the morning.

4. Arsenic Album – For Puffiness Under Eyes With Burning In Eyes

This medicine is mainly administered when there is puffiness under the eyes along with an excessive burning sensation in the eyes. It is accompanied by hot watering from the eyes. In most cases, initially, the swelling occurs on the upper eyelids followed by lower eyelids. This makes the eyes sore. The eyelids are red and scaly. An uneasiness is felt on the inner surface of eyelids. This leads to an urge to rub the eyes quite frequently. Sensitivity to light is also experienced.

5. Belladonna – For Puffiness Attended With Redness Of Eyes

This medicine is useful to manage puffiness under the eyes when accompanied by redness of the eyes. Along with this throbbing type of pain is marked in the eyes. At times, shooting and burning sort of pain occurs in the eyes. Eyelids may be sore. The eyelids feel heavy. Additionally, the eyes can be very dry. Sensation as if there is a sand-like particle in the eyes may occur along with above-mentioned complaints.

6. Rhus Tox – For Puffiness Under Eyes And Swelling Of Lids

This medicine helps manage puffiness under the eyes and swelling of the lids. This may be accompanied by itching and burning in the swollen lids. A prickling sensation is also well-marked in the lids.  The eyelids feel heavy and stiff as well. Along with puffiness of the eyelids, one may experience a hot flushed face. Excessive eye watering can be an accompanying factor. Puffiness may also be noticed on the face in some cases needing Rhus Tox. This medicine is also administered when there are styes on the lower eyelids with redness and hardness towards the inner canthus. Pressive type of pain is an accompanying factor.

7. Phosphorus – For Puffiness Under Eyes With Redness Of Face

This medicine is recommended for puffiness under the eyes accompanied by redness of the face. Blue rings around the eyes can occur with this. Itching in the eyes appears with the above-mentioned complaints. Some other attending symptoms that may occur include burning in the eyes, sensitivity to bright light and eye watering.

Stage fright refers to anxiety or fear that a person feels when he/she has to give a presentation or speak in front of an audience or a group of people. Stage fright is very common and the intensity may vary from mild to severe. It may be more intense when the performance has to be given in front of strangers. It may happen in various situations. Some examples include giving interviews for jobs, giving a speech, attending an office meeting, giving a presentation in class, dance performance, and singing on stage in front of an audience. It may also occur in athletes. Some of the symptoms of stage fright are trembling, shaking of voice, sweating, redness of the face, rapid breathing, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain. Stage fright is considered to be a type of social anxiety disorder. There is a constant fear of being watched, judged and rejected by people. It is also thought to be just a fight-or-flight response. It indicates our body’s reaction to stress or recognition of some situation of danger where the body senses some harm that is going to occur in body. There is release of adrenaline in the body on recognition of a stressful event. This leads to an increased rate of contraction of muscle fibers that can result in trembling, increased sweating and dryness of the mouth. Other changes include high blood pressure, increased heart rate, nausea, stomach cramps and diarrhea. Besides the above factors, low self-esteem and poor self–confidence also contribute to stage fright.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic system of medicine offers a very natural and effective management for dealing with cases of stage fright. Homeopathic medicines are natural remedies that help in managing these cases wonderfully. These medicines help keep the mind calm and reduce the effects of anxiety very effectively. It is a gradual process of treatment and results do not happen overnight with these medicines and it takes some time for good results to appear. The homeopathic medicines are free from any kind of toxic side effects. Homeopathic medicines are prescribed based on the characteristic individual symptoms in every case following in-depth case analysis. It is advised to consult a homeopathic physician for case evaluation to get the most suitable medicine. One should avoid self-medication with any of the homeopathic medicines.

Homeopathic Medicines For Stage Fright

1. Argentum Nitricum – Top Recommended Medicine

Though there are numerous medicines in homeopathy for helping cases of stage fright, among these Argentum Nitricum tops the list. This medicine is highly beneficial for managing stage fright along with marked anticipation. Anticipation means constant revolving of thoughts in the mind regarding some event that is going to happen in the future. For example, if someone has to deliver a speech on stage, then the anxiety occurs not only on the stage but begins beforehand. It starts right from the day when the person comes to know that he has to give a speech in front of a group of people. Various thoughts may cross his mind in anticipation, for example: Will my speech go on smoothly? Will I be able to speak without stuttering? What if I forget and get numb while delivering the speech? I think I will panic and fail. Will others notice my anxiety? And so on. In this anxiety and fear, the person may suffer from vertigo and gastric symptoms usually diarrhea (frequent, loose stool). Those needing it are nervous, impulsive and do things hurriedly.

2. Gelsemium – For Stage Fright With Fear Of Appearing In Public

Gelsemium is also a very effective medicine for managing cases of stage fright. Those needing it have an intense fear of appearing in public. There is marked fear of failure. There is fear of some upcoming event where they have to appear in a stage performance, like a speech. There is lack of courage to perform on the stage due to marked fear and anxiety. In general, other complaints that one may face are dullness of mind, drowsiness, and weakness. Concentration issues can be present as well along with the above-mentioned indications.

3. Lycopodium – For Fear Occurring On Starting Stage Presentation But Afterwards It Goes Well

Lycopodium is another useful medicine for cases of stage fright. To use this medicine, the leading characteristic feature to take note of is anxiety in the beginning of the performance (like a speech, dance performance, etc.) on the stage but soon after confidence develops and the act goes brilliantly till the end. The persons needing it have marked fear of public speaking. There is aversion to do new things and the sufferer is not ready to undertake any act for stage performance. There is poor self-esteem and low confidence initially.

4. Silicea – For Stage Fright With A Fear Of Failure

Silicea is of great help in cases of stage fright where a person always has a fear of failure. Those needing this medicine are sure that they will fail in any stage performance act. They lack self-confidence and are very shy to speak in front of a group of people and on stage. They are very nervous and avoid taking any responsibility of public speaking due to fear of failure.

5. Aconite – For Stage Fright With Marked Anxiety And Panic Attacks

This medicine is recommended for cases of anxiety and panic attacks with fear of speaking in front of a group of people. Those needing it suffer from excessive shaking or trembling during a bout of anxiety. Numbness and tingling sensation is felt in the arms and fingers. Heart palpitations are felt too. Sometimes, the sufferer may faint.

6. Arsenic Album – For Anxiety With Marked Restlessness

Arsenic Album is the next best medicine for managing stage fright with marked anxiety and restlessness. Those needing it are highly nervous and become anxious with very small issues. They exhibit facial flushing due to anxiety. Nausea may occur too. There is difficulty in breathing and chest constriction may attend as well. There is also excessive fear along with trembling and cold sweating. Weakness is also present.

7. Medorrhinum – For Stage Fright, Anxiety With Anticipation

Another homeopathic medicine recommended for managing stage fright is Medorrhinum. This medicine is indicated for anxiety in anticipation like in medicine Argentum Nitricum. There is marked fright and panic attack where this medicine is required. Those needing this medicine are nervous and sensitive. They do things hurriedly and get irritated easily. Additionally, they may suffer weakness of memory, forgetfulness and poor concentration.

8. Ambra Grisea – For Shy People Having Fear Of People

This medicine is well suited to those who are very shy in nature and blush easily. They are not able to do any activity in front of others. They have a marked fear of people and wish to be alone most of the times. They feel embarrassed in the company of other people. Additionally, they are forgetful and have weak memory. They get irritated easily and are very impatient.

Increased sensitivity to strong odors is medically known as hyperosmia. Some people have a sharp sense of smell by birth and they perceive smells strongly, this is due to genetics. However, in some persons increased sensitivity to strong odors develops later on in life and can be associated with some medical conditions. Strong odors become highly intolerable in them and may result in nausea. In some, it may trigger a few complaints including runny nose, sneezing, headache, dizziness, vomiting, cough, skin rash, asthma attack and fainting as well. In some cases, it may also lead to irritability, concentration problems, anxiety issues and depression too. The sensitivity to strong smells can be persistent or occur sometimes varying from case to case. A person can have sensitivity to the smell of different products. Some examples of products that a person can have high sensitivity to include perfumes, chemicals, air fresheners, etc. Increased sensitivity to strong odors may occur during pregnancy mainly in the first trimester due to hormonal changes. Several medical conditions can be associated with increased sensitivity to strong odors. First among these is migraine (one-sided headache often attended with nausea and vomiting). A person might feel increased smell sensitivity before the onset of a bout of migraine headache and also during headache. It goes away after the headache is over. In some, sensitivity may even remain between two migraine episodes. The second cause behind sensitivity to strong odors is epilepsy (brain disorder with a tendency to have recurrent seizures). Before onset of a seizure attack, a person can have increased smell sensitivity in the aura stage. Increased sensitivity to strong odors may also be felt in cases of Lyme’s disease. It is a bacterial infection caused by bacteria borrelia. This infection spreads from a bite by a tick which carries this bacteria. In around 50 percent of the cases of Lyme’s disease, it is a major symptom noted besides the other symptoms. Persons who are suffering from Type 1 diabetes that is not controlled well can experience increased sensitivity to smells.

Another reason can be Addison’s disease. Addison’s disease is an illness in which adrenal glands are unable to produce some hormones like cortisol and aldosterone. In this disease increased sensitivity to smell might occur in addition to other symptoms like excessive tiredness, loss of appetite, weight loss, joint pain, muscle pain, dark skin areas, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, hair loss, nausea, diarrhea and depression.

Increased sensitivity to strong odors is also linked with some other disorders including Lupus, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and Tourette’s syndrome. Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the healthy tissues and organs in the body get inflamed, damaged by the immune cells of the body. Some of the signs and symptoms of this disease include butterfly-shaped rash on the face, joint pains, fatigue, fever, headache and memory loss. Sensitivity to odors may attend these complaints. Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder in which brain cells die off resulting in memory loss and decline in thinking, behaviour and social skills. Parkinson’s disease affects the nervous system that starts with hand tremors at rest. After this, other complaints arise like a stooped posture, stiffness of the muscles, impaired balance, diminished expressions on the face, changes in speech and reduced arm swing while walking. Tourette syndrome is a disorder characterised by uncontrollable repetitive movements and vocal sounds called tics. In some cases, increased sensitivity to strong odors may occur without any cause.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy offers a highly effective treatment for complaint of sensitivity to strong odors. Homeopathic medicines gradually help in reducing the intensity and frequency of this complaint. Complaints like headache, sneezing and cough that arise from strong odors can also be well managed with these medicines. They help to overcome this issue in a very gentle and natural manner with zero side effects. As this complaint can arise from various causes, it is advised to consult a physician to rule out the cause behind it and take proper treatment. Always consider taking any of the homeopathic medicines under the supervision of a homeopathic doctor and never self-medicate.

Homeopathic Medicines For Increased Sensitivity To Strong Odors

1. Phosphorus – For Headache, Cough And Sneezing From Strong Odors

Phosphorus is a leading homeopathic medicine to manage various complaints resulting from sensitivity to strong odors. Firstly, this medicine is of great use for cases in which headache occurs from strong odors. In cases needing it, there is headache over one eye or on one side of the temple area.  Strain in the eyes may attend headache. It is very effective in managing cough resulting from exposure to strong odors. A tickling sensation is felt in the throat that excites cough. Dryness and a burning sensation is felt in the throat in some cases. Cough is dry and can be accompanied with a headache. Head feels as if it would burst. Lastly, this medicine is highly beneficial for managing sneezing resulting from exposure to strong odors.

2. Colchicum – For Increased Sensitivity To Odor Of Cooking Food

This medicine is well indicated for cases where marked sensitivity to odor of cooking food is present. Next it is useful for cases when there is increased sensitivity to smell of eggs, fish and meat. Nausea occurs from smell of these food products. The person may even faint. There is aversion to eating food. Smell or even the sight of the food may be a source of irritation. Strong smells disturb their temper of mind.

3. Sabadilla – With Nasal Discharge And Sneezing

This medicine can be considered when there is sensitivity to strong odors along with sneezing and nasal discharge. The nasal discharge is excessive and watery. Itching and tickling is felt in the nose. Pain in the forehead can attend the above complaints. Sabadilla is also one of the top medicines where there is sensitivity to smell of garlic which becomes intolerable.

4. Sepia – For Headache From Strong Odors

Sepia is a helpful medicine for managing headache arising from strong odors. Along with headache, there is aversion to every kind of food and even the smell of food is unbearable. An empty feeling in the stomach attends headache. Nausea and vomiting can occur during headache.

5. Nux Vomica – When There Is Fainting From Strong Odors

Nux Vomica is well indicated for cases where there is sensitivity to strong odors that often leads to fainting. The smell of tobacco is the most intolerable. Persons needing it might also have increased sensitivity to light and noises in addition to that of smell.

6. Hepar Sulph – For Increased Sensitivity To Smell With Vertigo

This medicine is a useful medicine for increased sensitivity to smell attended with vertigo. Vertigo may be accompanied with nausea and a tendency to fall. In cases needing it itching in the nostrils with sneezing can also be present. Next, there can be heat or burning sensation in the nose.

7. Ignatia – For Sensitivity To Smell Of Tobacco

This medicine is suitable for cases of sensitivity to the smell of tobacco. Those needing it suffer headache from the smell of tobacco. Pain usually appears in the back of the head (occiput). There is relief in pain from warm application and also from eating.