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Thuja – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications, and Dosage

Thuja is a plant remedy prepared from fresh green twigs of a plant Thuja Occidentalis commonly known by the name of Arbor Vitae. The natural order of this plant is Coniferae. Arbor Vitae is an evergreen plant that attains a height of ranging from 20 to 50 feet. This plant exists in large number in the upper zones of North America, from Pennsylvania northwards. It blossoms from May until June and matures its fruit in autumn.
As a homeopathic remedy, it is primarily used for ailments related to the skin, reproductive organs, and anorectal disorders.

The Thuja Constitution

Individuals requiring Thuja have a hydrogenoid (excessive water in the body) constitution. Rain and damp, cold weather that increases the number of molecules of water in the system worsens the symptoms in them. It suits strumous and sycotic persons, those with lax muscles and light hair. It is also suitable for persons with lymphatic temperament who are fleshy with a dark complexion, black hair, and unhealthy-looking skin.

Drug Action

This remedy majorly acts on the mucus membrane of the genitourinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, on the skin, glands, blood, mind, and brain. Its use is also indicated for wart-like growths upon mucous membranes and the skin. This remedy has an antibacterial action and is widely used to treat gonorrhea. It is considered to be a medicine that works particularly well on left-sided ailments of the body.

Clinical Uses

Thuja is used to treat conditions like warts, moles, skin pigmentation (chloasma), freckles, fungal infections like ringworms, ill-effects of vaccination, hair and scalp infections, nail problems, gonorrhea, balanitis, prostate issues, urethral stricture, piles, anal fissures, anal fistula, constipation, tooth complaints, ovarian cysts, ovaritis, uterine fibroids, hirsutism, recto-vaginal fistula, lumps and tumors, fatty tumors, ganglion, eye tumors, styes, polyps, depression, delusions, and fears.

The Scope of Thuja as a Homeopathic Remedy

1. Skin Problems

Thuja is of great service in treating many complaints of the skin.

WARTS: It is highly effective to treat warts appearing anywhere on the skin, on male / female genitals, and on the anal area. Warts may be small or large, jagged, cauliflower-like, flat or horny. They may ooze moisture and also bleed. The color of warts may be brown, dark or red, and they may be hard or soft. They may have burning, itching, and pain too including sore, sticking, stinging type of pain. They may appear singly, isolated or in multiple crops/groups. They may also be inflamed and sensitive to touch.

FRECKLES: It is also a highly beneficial remedy to treat moles and freckles, particularly light-brown freckles. The facial skin seems greasy/oily in cases requiring this remedy.

PIGMENTATION: It is an effective remedy to treat skin pigmentation with dirty brownish discoloration on the face or any part of the body. It also treats fungal infections of the skin and ringworms very effectively.

2. Ailments in Males

GONORRHEA: It works well in cases of gonorrhea in males where there is swelling of the urethra with scalding on urination. Along with this watery discharge of yellow/green color from the urethra is present.

WARTS ON GENITALS: This remedy can also be used to treat warts on prepuce, penis, scrotum. They may be small or pedunculated, and dry.

BALANITIS: The third indication for using Thuja in cases of male afflictions is balanitis. Here the glans is covered with red sores which are highly sensitive. Burning between the prepuce and glans penis may also be present.

PROSTATE ISSUES: It is also prominently indicated to treat prostate issues where there is a complaint of frequent urination. Sudden urgency to urinate is marked, and the stream of urine may be small and forked in some cases.

3. Ailments in Women

Thuja is a highly recommended medicine to treat a number of ailments in females. Uterine fibroids, warts, ovarian cysts and painful periods are some of the ailments where this remedy works very well.

OVARIAN PAIN: Left-sided ovarian pains that are cutting or shooting in nature, pain in the left ovary indicate its use. Pain from the left ovary may also radiate to the groin and left leg. Left ovary is inflamed. Burning pain in the left ovary, especially during periods, is marked. The burning pain tends to get worse while walking with a desire to lie down.
It is also an important remedy to treat warts on the female genitalia – vulva, vagina, and cervix. Stinging pain may be present in warts, and they may also bleed.

UTERINE POLYPS: In cases of uterine polyps, this medicine is indicated where excessive menstrual bleeding and intermenstrual bleeding is present. Vaginal discharge, back pain and tiredness of legs accompany.
In addition to the above, it also treats the complaint of unwanted facial hair (hirsutism) in females.
It is also a prominently used medicine to treat cases of rectovaginal fistula in females.

4. Ano-Rectal Disorders

Thuja is a significant medicine to treat many anorectal complaints, like constipation, piles, fissures, and fistulas.

CONSTIPATION: It is useful to treat constipation where there is obstinate constipation and the stool comes in the form of hard balls. The anus feels constricted, hard stool is followed by soft stool, and in some cases, the stool is covered with blood. Pain in the rectum may appear while passing stool. There is soreness and burning at the anus throughout the day. Burning or sticking in the anus, painful stitches in the anus (as from a needle), smarting pain in the anus are some other attending features.

PILES: It used to treat piles in cases where pain while passing stool is present. Burning at anus especially while walking is marked.

FISSURES: It is used to treat fissures of the anus. In such cases, the anus is highly sensitive and painful to touch. Burning and itching at the anus are also present.
Apart from the above, Thuja is widely used to treat anal fistula and warts around the anus. Highly offensive sweat around the anus may be present with the above complaints.

5. Urinary Complaints

Thuja is helpful to rectify many urinary complaints associated with inflammation/infection of the urinary tract, stricture of urethra and prostate issue. The urinary symptoms managed with this medicine are cutting pains after urination, burning pain in the bladder and urethra. Its use is also considered when the stream of urine is forked and small, where there is frequent urination (especially at night), and where there is a sudden urgency to pass urine.

6. Complaints of the Mind

This remedy is useful to treat depression, fears, and delusions. There is depression with sadness, aversion to company, attended with irritability, loathing of life and self-contempt. Many of the fears may be present when this remedy is indicated, including fear of getting an infection, fear of germs, fear of strangers, fear of death, fear of getting a venereal disease.

7. Ill-effects of Vaccination

Many troubles arising from vaccination including skin rash, stomach ailments, neuralgia, conjunctivitis, growths at the site of vaccination can be treated with this medicine.

8. Lumps and Tumours

Thuja is an effective anti-sycotic medicine. Fatty tumors, ganglion, eye tumors (styes, tarsal tumors), breast tumors, uterine tumors, polyps (of ears, vocal cords, uterus) all are within the range of treatment.

9. Problems of Hair and Scalp

It is a very helpful remedy to manage hair fall. It also helps to treat dry and split hair, thin, lustreless, brittle hair, premature greying of hair and white scaly dandruff.

10. Conditions Affecting the Nails

Thuja is useful to treat fungal infections of nails, particularly in cases where the nails are discolored and soft, out of shape and distorted. The nails may get dry or brittle, and crumble or break. It is also used to treat ingrown toenails.

11. Dental Complaints

Use of Thuja is also suggested to treat tooth complaints like decay/caries especially when the root decays but the crown remains sound. It also helps in cases of crumbling and yellowing of teeth. Toothache better by pressure and a toothache that worsens before and after menses also indicate the need for this medicine.

Dosage

As a remedy, Thuja can be used from 30 C to 1M potency. The repetition and potency vary from case to case.

Relation to Other Remedies

Complementary medicines – Arsenic album, Natrum Sulph, Sabina, Silicea, and Medorrhinum.
Medicines that follow Thuja well are – Nitric Acid, Calcarea Carb, Lycopodium, Pulsatilla, Sabina, Silicea, and Sulphur.
Antidotes – Camphor, Chamomilla, Pulsatilla, and Sulphur

Nux Vomica – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications, and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 82 Comments

Nux Vomica is a plant commonly known by name Poison Nut of the family Loganiaceae. The seeds of the plant are used to extract the medicine. This plant grows in China, East India, Burma, and Australia. It has small flowers and orange colored fruits. The fruits contain numerous ash gray colored seeds that are coated with fine, silky downy hairs. As a homeopathic remedy, it is majorly used for treating gastric ailments, rectal ailments, anger management, urinary troubles, liver complaints, migraine, sexual complaints in males, sleep issues, and respiratory complaints.

Preparation

Nux Vomica as medicine is prepared from seeds of a plant poison nut. Trituration of the seeds is done to extract the medicine for use in homeopathy.

The Nux Vomica Constitution

In homeopathy, it is believed that every person has a particular constitution. This is the composition, structure, physical makeup and nature of a person.
Nux Vomica is suited to thin, active, energetic, ardent, careful, impatient, zealous persons with dark hair and disposed to get offended and irritable often and are spiteful and malicious. They are impatient, nervous, disposed to be quarrelsome and getting angry easily. Next, it suits literary, studious persons doing much mental work having a sedentary life, with gastric, abdominal complaints. It is also suited in drunkards prone to gastric ailments, indigestion. An oversensitivity to external impressions is frequently noticed. A tendency to chronic indigestion, gastric ailments and piles are usually seen.

Clinical Indications

Piles, constipation, indigestion, acidity, heartburn, migraine, sleeplessness (insomnia), asthma, colds, liver complaints, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, kidney stones, alcoholism, hangover headaches, umbilical hernia, inguinal hernia, drug abuse, tobacco addiction, anger management.

The Scope of Nux Vomica as a Homeopathic Remedy

1. Rectal Complaints

Nux Vomica is a very effective medicine to treat rectal complaints. In the case of rectal complaints it is indicated to treat constipation, diarrhea, piles, dysentery, and prolapse of rectum. The key indication for using Nux Vomica in constipation is frequent ineffectual urging for a stool but passing little quantity at a time. A constant uneasiness is felt in the rectum with frequent small evacuations. The stool is always insufficient and unsatisfactory with a feeling as if some part still remained in the rectum. A sensation as if the stool is not finished prevails. The stool is very hard, dry and knotty. Nux Vomica is highly preferred for treating constipation in infants, adults, elderly people, in women during pregnancy and person living a sedentary lifestyle. It is considered in diarrhea that arises in the morning, after rising, from indigestion, from taking alcoholic drinks, after drastic medicines and from prolonged drugging. Here stool is thin, brown, dark watery and offensive. Before and during stool, a cutting pain around the umbilicus is felt. The pains get better after passing stool.
It also helps rectify diarrhea in infants. Its use is also made in cases of alternating diarrhea and constipation. Nux Vomica helps to regularise the bowel movements. In cases of piles, it is useful for blind piles and itchy piles. There is burning, cutting, sticking, smarting at the anus. Slightest touch worsens the pain. Itching at the anus is worse at night keeping the person awake. Application of cold water at the anus offers relief in piles complaint. Piles during pregnancy or after parturition (delivery) are also indicative to use Nux Vomica. Apart from all these Nux Vomica is also given for dysentery. There is a discharge of blood with the slimy, watery, putrid, painful stool. Small quantities of jelly-like mucus pass with stool. Stool may be greenish in color. There is marked tenesmus, (a feeling of constantly needing to pass stools). Next indication for Nux Vomica is prolapse of rectum. Prolapse of rectum due to constipation majorly guides towards its use.

2. Gastric Troubles

Nux Vomica is an excellent digestive remedy for treating indigestion and acidity. The major symptoms for using it include – heartburn, sour bitter belching, water brash, nausea and vomiting with much retching. Pain in the stomach is also present. Vomiting gives relief in the pain for a while. Tension and fullness in the stomach gets worsen after eating. Burning in the stomach also attends. The stomach area is sensitive to pressure and person cannot bear tight clothing due to this. Excessive gas is present in the abdomen that is incarcerated or obstructed. Abdominal fullness, distension, rumbling is marked. Distension is worse after eating or drinking. Belchings gives relief. Abdominal colic arises. Pain in the abdomen is violent, drawing tearing in nature most times about the navel. Pain is worse from eating anything. Colicy, cutting pain in the abdomen with nausea is marked. Gastric ailments from taking alcohol, coffee, tobacco, highly spiced food are wonderfully treated with Nux Vomica. Dyspepsia from worry, anxiety and mental stress is also corrected with Nux Vomica. Nux Vomica is also a great anti-inflammatory medicine for the stomach. Its use is highly considered in gastritis with burning pain in the stomach and vomiting of everything taken, even in the smallest quantity soon after taking it. Motion sickness from traveling in the car also indicates its use. Nux Vomica is also a significant remedy for hernia – inguinal and umbilical. It is also prominently indicated for an umbilical hernia in infants.

3. Sleep Issues

Nux Vomica is an excellent medicine for insomnia (sleeplessness), mainly where maintaining sleep is the major trouble for the person. There is a rush of thoughts in mind causing insomnia. In daytime drowsiness is present. Tiredness and weakness are also present. Sleeplessness arising from abuse of coffee or tobacco or alcoholic drinks is indicative to use Nux Vomica. Mental strain leading to sleeplessness is also helped with Nux Vomica. Another feature for using Nux Vomica is talking during sleep. Complaint of loud snoring during sleep is also addressed wonderfully with this medicine. Nux Vomica also helps in cases of nightmares frightful dreams, anxious dreams, dreams about accidents.

4. Mental Complaints

Nux Vomica is frequently used for anger management. The person needing Nux Vomica gets offended very easily and explode with anger. They also have a spiteful and malicious disposition. They tend to be quarrelsome. They often scold and insult other people. They are highly irritable, headstrong, ill-humored and anxious and wishes to be alone. Along with anxiety, they have suicidal thoughts and tend to be jealous. They can’t bear criticism or minor contradiction is intolerable. They tend to criticize others, find faults in others and demands perfection. They reproach others for their faults. Usually, they are very careful, nervous, ambitious, workaholic zealous with fiery excited temperament. They are oversensitive to all external impressions including noise, smell, and light. It also helps in dealing with ailments arising after continued mental exertion and from disappointed ambitions. It is also useful in obsessive-compulsive disorders. They are extremely fastidious in nature.

5. Sexual Complaints in Males

Nux Vomica is also beneficial for treating a number of sexual complaints in males. It is frequently used for treating erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation. Next, it is suitable for the complaint of orchitis. The testicles are swollen and very sensitive to touch. Sharp, drawing or constricting pain is felt in the testes. Heated sensation in testicles attend. Pain gets worse from pressure and motion. Pain also worsens at night time causing restless sleep or sleeplessness at night on account of pain. Nux Vomica is also suggested to treat hydrocele. Next complaint where Nux Vomica offers help is spermatorrhea with weakness, backache, and irritability. Emissions during sleep with sensual dreams and exhaustion is also treated well with this remedy. Apart from this, it is helpful for treating chronic prostatitis and gonorrhea. In the case of gonorrhea thin discharge with burning on urinating are present.

6. Liver Ailments

Nux Vomica helps to rectify many of the liver ailments. Here, Nux Vomica is prominently indicated for an enlarged liver, fatty liver, jaundice, and hepatitis. The liver is swollen, sore and tender to pressure. Sticking, shooting, stinging, stitching, sharp or throbbing pain in the liver is felt. Motion worsens the pain. Tightness and constriction in the liver area is also present. Diarrhea and vomiting appear from liver complaints. Loss of appetite and aversion to food appears. Liver weakened from excessive alcohol intake, drug abuse also points towards the use of this remedy. Apart from above, Nux Vomica is preferable medicine for gall stones.

7. Headache

Nux Vomica is a highly suitable medicine for treating headache. Firstly it is recommended for migraine. Migraine from gastric troubles attended with nausea and acid vomiting indicates its use. Nux Vomica is also recommended for a headache that worsens from mental exertion or from anger. Headache from abuse of coffee, from light and noise, and from eating highly spiced food is also attended well with this medicine. Next, its use is suggested for headache from constipation. Hangover headaches also indicate its use.

8. Nasal and Respiratory Complaints

In the case of nasal complaints, Nux Vomica is given for coryza. There is stuffy nose or discharge of acrid nature from the nose. This majorly arises from cold air exposure. Nose blockage worsens at night time. Violent sneezing attends. This is most noted in the morning. Fluent coryza after rising is another key feature for its use. Intolerable itching in nose arises. Nose and frontal sinus may be inflamed. Headache attends nasal catarrh. Oversensitivity to strong odors is most times present. Its use is also made in cases of asthma. There is a suffocative sensation, oppressed breathing. Marked chest constriction and heavy load at the chest is felt. To it attends loud, whistling respiration with a severe cough. Very severe asthmatic attack after midnight appears. Asthma worsening from cold air also suggests its use. Apart from this, cough from gastric troubles and tobacco abuse are also treated wonderfully with Nux Vomica.

9. Urinary Troubles

Nux Vomica is indicated for treating kidney stones. There appears pain in kidney area. Pain may radiate to thighs. Walking worsens the pain. Relief by lying on the back appears. There appears constant urging to urinate. Burning and tearing pain while passing urine appears. Blood in the urine may be noted. Nausea, vomiting and ineffectual urging for stool is a major attending feature

Dosage

Nux Vomica can be used from 30 C to 1M potency. It is a short-acting remedy and its action lasts from 1 to 7 days approximately. The repetition and potency vary from case to case.

Relationship with Other Homeopathic Medicines

Sepia, Kali Carb, and Sulphur are complementary medicines to Nux Vomica.
Ignatia Amara and Zincum Met are inimical (interrupt the action of) to Nux Vomica
Its antidotes are Aconite, Arsenic Album, Chamomilla, Coffea Cruda, Opium, Pulsatilla and Thuja Occidentalis

Top 6 Natural Homeopathic Remedies for Body Pains and Aches

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 186 Comments

Body aches are very common these days. It can occur from various reasons from mild to serious ones. It may simply arise from exertion, lack of sleep, stress or from different medical reasons, like viral/bacterial infections and arthritis (joint inflammation), among many other issues. The intensity and frequency of pain differ from case to case. The type of pain – aching, sore, cutting, tearing, sharp pain –varies from person to person.

Homeopathic remedies are very effective in treating body pains and aches. As body pain may arise from various sort of reasons, so for curing it that root cause has to be identified and treated. So in these cases, homeopathic medicines give excellent results by healing the internal cause behind it. Along with relieving body aches, these medicines also help in managing the attending symptoms like stiffness, soreness, fever and weakness. In conventional mode, pain killers, NSAIDs (non – steroidal anti – inflammatory drugs), steroids are being utilised to manage body aches as per the cause behind it that may have adverse effects from long-term use. While homeopathic medicines for body pains are a natural substitute for conventional medicines. These medicines help to reduce dependency on allopathic medicines to a great extent.

The selection of homeopathic medicine for body aches depends on the characteristic symptoms in every individual case. So homeopathic prescription varies from case to case and similar medicine is not prescribed in every case of body aches. This is as per the law of individualization in homeopathy.

Homeopathy is recommended for both acute and chronic cases of body aches. By following a regular course of homeopathic treatment as prescribed by a homeopathic physician, most of the cases of body aches recover completely. However, the time taken for complete healing depends on the duration and intensity of the problem.

The best feature while using homeopathic medicines for treating body pains is that they are free from side effects. This is because they are made from naturally occurring plants and substances that do not cause any harmful reaction.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Body Pains and Aches

The top medicines for body pains and aches are Rhus Tox, Arnica Montana, Bryonia Alba, Magnesium Phosphorica, Gelsemium Sempervirens and Eupatorium Perfoliatum.

1. Rhus Tox – Topmost Medicine

Rhus Tox is a natural medicine that has proved to be the best in treating general body pains and aches. This medicine is prescribed for patients in whom the body aches become worse in resting position and get better by walking. The body pains are accompanied by anxiety and restlessness. The patient feels a need to constantly move to get relief. The body aches trouble a person when a person gets up to walk after rest but as the patient walks, the pain goes on decreasing gradually. Marked stiffness always accompanies body aches. This medicine is specific if the body pain starts after getting wet in rain. Its use is highly recommended in those body pains that are a result of overexertion, overstraining or overstretching of muscles, and joint inflammation.

When to use Rhus Tox?

It is a marvellous medicine for managing body aches that get worse at rest and better from motion. The body aches can be related to overexertion, muscle pain or joint pain.

How to use Rhus Tox?

It is available in different potenices from low to high potency, initially it is advised to take it in 30C potency two to three times a day.

2. Arnica Montana – For Injury-Related Bodyaches

Arnica Montana is also an excellent medicine for body aches. This medicine has the great ability to reduce body aches which occur due to injuries either recent or old. Joint pains that result from injury can be treated with this remedy. This medicine is used where excessive, bruised type of aching of the body is present. The whole body feels sore as if beaten. The patient requiring Arnica finds it difficult to lie down calmly in bed. The bed feels hard on which he lies, which makes him constantly change his/her position in bed. The whole body feels lame. Arnica can very effectively treat the soreness and body aches due to overexertion.

When to use Arnica Montana?

It is a highly effective medicine for managing sore, bruised, aching body aches resulting from an injury either recent or old ones when the body feels as if beaten.

How to use Arnica Montana?

It can be taken in 30C potency three or four times a day initially, gradually decreasing the dose once relief sets in.

3. Bryonia Alba – For Body Aches When Muscle Or Joints Are Affected

This medicine gives excellent results when body pains result from either muscular or joint involvement. The prominent symptom guiding the use of this medicine is – worsening of the body pains on the slightest motion. The body pains get better on absolute rest. Every part of the body is painful to touch. An increased thirst for large quantity of water is always present in patients requiring this medicine.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

It is the best choice to manage body aches related to muscles or joints when pains are worse from slight movement and better from rest.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

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

4. Magnesium Phosphorica – For Body Aches Better From Warm And Pressure

Magnesium Phosphorica is used for a wide range of body pains and aches. The main indications for its use are relief in pain from warm application and pressure application to the affected parts of the body and worsening by cold air exposure. The body pains can be shooting, cutting or stitching in nature.

When to use Magnesium Phosphorica?

It is an apt medicine for cases of body aches in which there is relief from warm application and pressure while there is worsening of pain from cold air exposure.

How to use Magnesium Phosphorica?

Most of the time, it is prescribed in 6X potency and can be taken three to four times a day as per pain severity.

5. Gelsemium Sempervirens – For Body Aches Attended With Weakness, Dullness And Drowsiness

Gelsemium Sempervirens is a wonderful natural medicine for treating body aches that are accompanied by dullness, drowsiness and weakness. The whole body feels tired. Pain is mostly present in the neck, back and lower limbs. The body pains are attended with weakness even from slight exertion. This medicine can also help in relieving the neck and shoulder pain with headache.

When to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

It is a well-indicated medicine to manage body aches attended with marked weakness, tiredness, dullness and drowsiness.

How to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

It can be used in 30C potency one to two times a day.

6. Eupatorium Perfoliatum – For Body Pains And Aches During Fever

Eupatorium Perfoliatum is the best natural medicine for treating body pains during fever. This is mainly given where severe and general bone pains predominate. This medicine gives quick relief in the body aches during fever like malaria or influenza. The patient feels as if the whole body is broken.

When to use Eupatorium Perfoliatum?

It is a highly suitable medicine to deal with body aches occurring during fever.

How to use Eupatorium Perfoliatum?

This medicine may be taken two to three times a day in 30C power.

Causes behind body aches

The causes may include exertion, vitamin D and calcium deficiencies, low potassium levels, lack of sleep, and injuries. Various medical conditions lead to body aches. First is fever. Second is arthritis which means inflammation of the joints. Third is fibromyalgia which causes widespread pain in different body parts at specific tender points attended by tiredness, memory issues, and sleep problems. The fourth cause can be Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) which causes marked weakness along with muscle / joint pains, sleeplessness, and poor memory. Other causes may include anemia (lack of sufficient red blood cells to carry enough oxygen to body tissues); lupus (an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks and inflames the healthy tissues and organs of the body that leads to a butterfly-shaped rash on the face and may cause joint pains, fever, tiredness, chest pain, dry eyes and memory loss; Lyme disease which is a bacterial infection spread by tick bites; myositis (inflammation of muscles); and fluid retention.

Homeopathic Remedies for Bed Sores

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 83 Comments

Bed Sores are commonly seen in persons who are immobilized and stay in bed or wheelchair for a long time. They do not change their position often and this results in damage to the skin and the underlying tissues because of the constant pressure on skin for a long duration. Bed Sores are also known as pressure sores or Decubitus Ulcers. When a person lies in bed for a long time — due to medical conditions like paralysis, spinal problems and several others — the skin is constantly pressed between the bones and the bed. As a result, the blood supply to skin is hindered, resulting in skin damage. Persons who involuntarily pass urine or stool are also prone to develop Bed Sores due to constantly moist skin. Elderly people and diabetics too are more likely to develop Bed Sores, which are mostly formed on the skin over bony prominences. Bed Sores are commonly seen on heels, hips, sacrum, elbows, shoulder blades and spine. Natural remedies are very beneficial in treating Bed Sores. These homeopathic medicines for bed sores are completely safe with zero side effects and treat Bed Sores effectively by providing relief from pain and curing blisters and pus in ulcers.

Signs and Symptoms of Bed Sores

In the beginning, Bed Sores show their presence as red skin area which soon turns bluish or purplish due to diminished blood supply. The patient experiences itching and pain. In the next stage, blisters appear on skin. When these eruptions of varying size containing fluid burst out, ulcers appear on the skin. The ulcers then start to find a way into deeper tissues. If the condition deteriorates, damage to deeper tissues, including muscles and even bones, may occur. Pus discharge or foul odour discharge is a warning sign and it needs immediate attention.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Bed Sores

Arnica, Apis Mellifica, Carbo Veg, Arsenic Album, Silicea, Hepar Sulph, Paeonia, and Pyrogen are the top remedies for bed sores.

1. Arnica: For Bed Sores with Black and Blue Spots on Skin

Arnica is the best natural medicine for treating Bed Sores when the skin turns bluish or blackish in appearance. The colour changes are due to marked stasis of blood because of the constant pressure on the affected part. The bluishness is accompanied by marked soreness. The patient complains of bruised and sore feeling in the affected part and feels as if the bed is too hard to lie on. Along with soreness, the patient may also complain of itching. In such conditions, Arnica is the ideal Homeopathic prescription to reduce blood stasis and hence, the black or blue spots. The soreness and itching diminish with its use. Apart from these effects, Arnica also acts as a preventive medicine against pus formation that occurs in late stages of bed sores.

2. Apis Mellifica: For Rose-Colored Bed Sores with Burning Sensation

Apis Mellifica is the ideal natural remedy for Bed Sores where the skin appears rose coloured. There is a marked burning sensation in the spots. The patient complains of pain in the spots and it gets worse by touch. The condition also gets worse in a warm room or from heat of bed. The desire is to be in open air or uncover the affected parts to reduce the pain and burning. The pain may be of a stinging kind.

3. Carbo Veg: For Bed Sores with Blue Spots and Coldness of Affected Part

Carbo Veg is of great help for treating Bed Sores when the skin is bluish with coldness. Excessive sweat may also be present along with the coldness. The person needing Carbo Veg has bluish-coloured Bed Sores due to stagnation of blood in capillaries. Because of stagnated blood, there is imperfect oxidation, resulting in Bed Sores with a bluish tint. Apart from bluishness, coldness and sweat, the other complaint is itching. The itching most of the times gets worse by warmth. Itching may also be mostly experienced towards evening time. Bleeding from the sores is also narrated by a few patients. Marked weakness forms a part of the total symptom picture.

4. Arsenic Album: For Bed Sores with Offensive Discharge

Arsenic Album is the top natural remedy for Bed Sores where ulcers have formed with discharge of an offensive character. The discharge from ulcers is extremely putrid. Pain in ulcers, especially of a burning nature, is dominantly present. The pains in majority of cases get worse at night. Cold may also worsen the pain and burning in ulcers. The person also seems weak. Homeopathic medicine Arsenic Album efficiently helps in clearing the putrid discharge and ulcers as well as reducing the burning pain.

5. Silicea and Hepar Sulph: For Bed Sores with Pus

Silicea is a natural medicine that always stands out in the treatment of various medical conditions associated with formation of pus. Silicea is a very powerful and efficient medicine to get rid of pus discharges. It can be prescribed in all cases of Bed Sores with discharge of pus. Hepar Sulph is the remedy when the pus discharge is bloody. There is extreme pain and sensitiveness in the ulcer. The person needing Hepar Sulph may also have a burning and stinging feeling in the ulcers. So, while Silicea is selected when only pus oozes out of ulcers, Hepar Sulph is the best remedy when blood oozes out along with pus from ulcers.

6. Paeonia: For Bed Sores on Sacrum and Coccyx

Paeonia is the most efficient natural medicine for Bed Sores that show their presence on the skin covering sacrum and coccyx. Ulcers are present with pain and sensitiveness, Itching and pain in ulcers may also be felt and are effectively controlled by Homeopathic medicine Paeonia.

7. Pyrogen: For Bed Sores tending towards Sepsis

Sepsis is a very critical condition also called blood poisoning. In Sepsis, the septic or poisonous matter appears in blood and spreads to the entire body. In such cases of extreme Bed Sores where the infection has gained access to blood, Pyrogen is a very beneficial medicine. The patient shows symptoms of increased pulse rate and high fever with shivering. The skin is cold and sweaty and there is a presence of deep ulcers with horribly offensive discharge.

6 Homeopathic Medicines for Sore Muscles

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 19 Comments

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

Treatment Options for Sore Muscles

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

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

Homeopathic Medicines for Sore Muscles

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

1. Rhus Toxicodendron – For Sore Muscles Due to Weightlifting

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

2. Arnica Montana – For Sore Muscles Due to Trauma

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

3. Bryonia Alba – When Slight Motion Worsens the Pain

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

Other Important Remedies

4. Cimicifuga

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

5. Gelsemium

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

6. Sanguinaria Canadensis

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

Types of Muscle Soreness

Muscle soreness is of two types:

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

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

Causes of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)

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

Symptoms of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

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

How do Muscles get Sore?

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

Managing and Preventing Sore Muscles

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

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

Homeopathic Treatment for Water Retention

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 94 Comments

Water is a critical component of the human body. Around 70% of the human body is made up of water. All body tissues, organs, and fluids, like blood and lymph, are made up of water. The regulation of water in the body is a complex mechanism and is carried out by different organs of the body. Management of water helps in maintaining the water within reasonable limits despite the amount of water taken by the person or the climatic conditions outside. Any disturbance in the regulatory mechanisms can lead to water retention in the body. When the retention of water in the body tissues or tissue cavities exceeds the desired amount, it is known as edema. Water retention can be generalized, which means that it is present in the whole body; or it can be limited to one body part, like pedal edema where water retention is seen only in the ankles. Homeopathic treatment for water retention is very beneficial. A thorough investigation in each case of water retention is a must to rule out the involvement of any major organ before the beginning of the treatment.

In mild cases, medicines for water retention can be prescribed along with changes in diet and lifestyle. But in cases where retention is associated with disorders of major organs, treatment helps in managing the case. In such instances, treatment can be used in conjunction with conventional medicine to offer support to the patient. Medicines for water retention not only help in providing symptomatic relief but also assist in the treatment of underlying causes. Treatment for water retention is very safe since the medicines are prepared with natural substances. They have no side effects and can be used safely for all age groups.

Homeopathic Treatment for Water Retention

Some prominent medicines for water retention are Acetic acid, Apocynum, Apis Meliffica, Cardus Marianus, Digitalis, Fluoric Acid, and Terebinth. These medicines should be prescribed by individual symptoms in every given case. Homeopathy treatment for water retention should be taken under the supervision of a homeopath only, and self-medication should be avoided.

Causes and Types of Water Retention

Temporary water retention is the result of issues like the patient’s diet. Excessive intake of salt or sodium in the diet and deficiency of proteins and vitamin B complex are some causes of water retention. Another factor is the person’s lifestyle, which includes having a job that requires long periods of sitting down or standing. Water retention also occurs in bed ridden or immobile persons. Long flights may also lead to water retention. Medications like hormone replacement therapies, oral contraceptive pills, drugs for diabetes, anti inflammatory drugs, and drugs for heart disorders also cause water retention. In females, water retention commonly develops before the menstrual cycle. It is temporary and most likely due to hormonal imbalance. Water retention is also common during the last phase of pregnancy. It is due to the pressure put by the uterus on circulation and subsides after childbirth. Other medical conditions which lead to the retention of water are thyroid disorders, allergies to food, insect bites, disorders of the lymphatic system, deep vein thrombosis affecting lower limbs, congestive cardiac failure, kidney failure, and cirrhosis of the liver.

Types of Water Retention

There are two types of water retention. Cases, where depressions or pits are formed on the swollen part on exertion of pressure by the finger tips, is known as pitting type of water retention. Pitting type of water retention is seen in systemic disorders like a cardiac failure, liver failure, or kidney failure. Non-pitting edema is where no depressions form. It is a characteristic feature of water retention due to lymphatic and thyroid disorders.

Signs and Symptoms of Water Retention

Symptoms vary from mild to severe depending on the underlying cause and the organs involved. Water retention usually occurs on the feet, ankles, legs or hands. Here are some situations that lead to the retention of water.

1. Persons having a high sodium diet, sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, or long flights may experience water retention in the ankles or lower limbs. This retention is temporary and subsides with a little movement or leg elevation.
2. In cases where the person has to stand for a long time, the blood from the lower limbs cannot get pumped to the heart since the valves of the veins get incompetent. It leads to dilatation of the veins of the legs or varicose veins. In such cases, there is pain and heaviness in the legs. There may be skin changes like the development of skin eruptions or ulcers.
3. In congestive cardiac failure, the retention is usually on the legs, feet, and ankles. Along with this, other symptoms like tiredness, weakness, and an increased heart rate appear.
4. Retention may be present in the lungs, or pulmonary edema, leading to a chronic cough and breathlessness.
5. In cirrhosis of the liver, the retention appears on the abdomen and legs.
6. In kidney failure, there is puffiness around the eyes and swelling on the legs.
7. In disorders of the lymphatic system, the retention, or lymphoedema, is usually localized. Swelling may be present on the affected limb.
8. Persons having hypothyroidism may experience swelling and puffiness around the eyes and face. Water retention may be present on the feet and legs.

10 Homeopathic Medicines for Syphilis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 47 Comments

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium named Treponema pallidum (T.pallidum). Syphilis transfers from one person to another by sexual activity (oral, anal, or vaginal). Rarely syphilis can spread through direct contact with the lesion (like during kissing).
Syphilis can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy or delivery. Homeopathic medicines for syphilis help treat the problem in the initial stages.

People who are sexually active are at an increased risk of contracting syphilis. Having unprotected sex, having multiple sexual partners, having HIV are some risk factors for contracting syphilis infection. Initially, sores develop on genitals, rectum or mouth. After the initial infection, the bacteria can lie dormant in the body for decades and can become active again and damage other organs.

Homeopathic Medicines for Syphilis

There is a great scope to treat syphilis in homeopathy in the initial stages. The cases of primary and secondary syphilis are well managed with homeopathic medicines. Chancre (painless genital ulcer commonly form during the primary stage of syphilis) of primary syphilis and symptoms of secondary syphilis including rash, sore throat, fatigue, hair loss, a headache can be managed with homeopathic medicines. However, in tertiary syphilis homeopathy plays a supportive role and can be taken along with conventional treatment for symptom management. The top medicines for treating syphilis in initial stages are Merc Sol, Cinnabaris, Kali Iodatum, Merc Cor, and Syphilinum.

1. Merc Sol – For Chancres in Primary Syphilis

Merc Sol is well indicated to treat chancre in cases of primary syphilis. The chancre may be single or several small ones on the penis in cases needing Merc Sol. The chancres are soft or indurated and superficial or deep where Merc Sol is indicated. The chancres have a cheesy bottom and inverted red edges. The chancre may be painful and bleed easily. There may be secretion of pus or yellow fetid discharge from chancres. Inguinal region is painful while walking. There is a pain in inguinal glands on pressure.

2. Cinnabaris – For Red Swollen Chancre in Primary Syphilis

Cinnabaris is useful for cases of syphilis with red, swollen chancre. The edges of chancre are hard and elevated. The chancre is located in the middle of the penis in cases where Cinnabaris is indicated. The chancre is most times indurated.

3. Kali Iodatum – For Primary Syphilis with Deep Chancres

Kali Iodatum is helpful for syphilis with deep chancres. The edges of chancre are hard. Thin discharge may be present which has an offensive odour. There may be tendency to slow suppuration in the chancre. The glans penis is swollen.

4. Merc Cor – For Soft Chancre in Primary Syphilis

Merc Cor is indicated for chancre which is soft. The margins are dark red. The chancre is painful and it may bleed easily. There may be a discharge of thin pus from the chancre. The surrounding part of chancre is swollen with heat.

5. Syphilinum – For Secondary Syphilis with Prominent rash on Skin

Syphilinum is a beneficial medicine for secondary syphilis with a prominent rash on skin. The rash is prominent on the forehead, chin, front of chest and arms. An excess of fine scales peel off from it. In some cases copper – colored maculae from top of head to foot appears. Biting sensation in different body areas is felt at night. Along with this, there is fever with excessive headache. Body is extremely cold with desire to be covered. Appetite is lost. Sore throat, inflamed pharynx, and ulcers in the throat may also appear.

6. Nitric Acid – For Secondary Syphilis

Nitric Acid is indicated for secondary syphilis with skin eruptions having prickling and itching on the skin. It is also indicated for warts like growths on genitals and anus. The growths are large, jagged, and often pedunculated. There is prominent sticking and pricking in them. They are painful to touch. Sometimes they bleed on washing.

7. Phosphorus – For Managing Hair Fall in Syphilis

Phosphorus is a valuable medicine for managing complaint of hair fall in cases of syphilis. Hair fall is excessive in cases needing Phosphorus. The hair loss is general or in patches. The scalp is dry. A heated sensation is also felt in the scalp. Violent itching on the scalp may be present.

8. Thuja – For Warts like Growth in Genitals and Anus

Thuja is prepared from fresh green twigs of plant Thuja occidentalis commonly named as arborvitae. The natural order of this plant is Coniferae. Thuja is an excellent medicine to treat wart-like growths in syphilis cases. In males, these growths appear on glans, penis, perineum. They may be painful especially on walking. In females the growths may be there on labia, vulva, vagina. They may have stinging pains and may also bleed. Warts may be also present on the anus in males and females needing Thuja. These warts are painful and sensitive to touch.

9. Phytolacca – For Sore Throat in Syphilis

Phytolacca is prepared from a plant named Phytolacca decandra commonly known as poke – root or red ink plant. The natural order of this plant is Phytolaccaceae. Phytolacca is indicated for syphilis to manage sore throat. The throat is darkened, is painful, raw, rough and dry. Tonsils are bluish or dark purple in color. Swallowing is painful. Pain from the throat may extend to ears. There is marked burning and smarting felt in the throat. Scraping sensation and excoriation are felt in the throat. Ulcers tend to appear on tonsils. A disposition to hawk and clear throat is present. A sensation of a lump/plug in the throat is felt. Mucus discharge from posterior nares may be present. Apart from this pain in the limbs may be present. The pain is worse from motion.

10. Arsenic Album – For Fatigue in case of Syphilis

Arsenic Album is a wonderful medicine for managing fatigue in case of syphilis. The fatigue is very intense where Arsenic Album is indicated. There is tiredness, fatigue, lack of strength from very little exertion. Restlessness is marked with fatigue. Anxiety may also be prominently present especially at night time with above features.

Signs and Symptoms

Syphilis has three stages and the symptoms vary as per the ongoing stage.

Primary Syphilis

This is the first stage. In this a small, firm, and round sore / ulcer which is painless, and is known as chancre forms at the site from where bacteria entered the body (penis, vagina, anus or in some cases mouth). The chancre is usually one but in some cases, multiple chancres develop. The chancre tends to appear around three weeks after exposure. Chancres usually heal and disappear within 3 to 6 weeks.

Secondary Syphilis

This stage arises after healing of chancre. In this rash appears on the trunk that cover full body. The rash may be red or reddish brown in color. Along with this wart-like growths may appear in mouth, anal and genital region. Other symptoms that may appear are sore throat, muscle aches, fever, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and patchy hair loss. These symptoms may disappear in a few weeks or they can return many times for a long period. If not treated in this stage then it passes into a latent stage where no symptoms appear. In some cases, the person never experiences symptoms again while in some disease may progress to the next tertiary stage.

Tertiary syphilis

Tertiary syphilis can occur many years (even 10 to 30 years ) after the onset of the infection, after the latent asymptomatic stage. In the late stages, the disease damage may occur to the brain, heart, blood vessels, nerves, eyes, liver, bones, and joints.

8 Best Homeopathic Medicines for Stomach Ulcers

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 198 Comments

Stomach ulcers are sores or ulcers arising in the lining of the stomach. They are also known as gastric ulcers. In a majority of the cases, stomach ulcers are caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori bacterium. Another frequent cause is long term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s). Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers help to heal the sores in the stomach and prevent the tendency towards stomach ulcers in the chronic phase.

Tobacco smoking, drinking alcohol and stress are the risk factors that predispose a person to stomach ulcers. The protective mucus lining of the stomach is reduced due to the above causes. This allows the acid content of the stomach to eat away the inner tissue lining, resulting in ulcer formation.

Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers

The major symptom of stomach ulcers is pain/burning in the epigastric region. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss and hematemesis (vomiting of blood).

Homeopathic Medicines for Stomach Ulcers

Homeopathy offers a very safe and effective treatment for stomach ulcers. Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers primarily help reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms of stomach ulcers in the acute phase. Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers are selected as per individual symptoms that vary from person to person. Argentum Nitricum, Nux Vomica, Kali Bichromicum, Lycopodium, Carbo Veg, Hydrastis, Phosphorous, and Graphites are the top remedies for stomach ulcers.

1. Argentum Nitricum – For Stomach Ulcers with Radiating Pains

In my experience, Argentum Nitricum rates among the best medicines for stomach ulcers. This medicine is well indicated when sharp ulcerative or burning pain is felt in the stomach and radiates to other regions of the abdomen. The pain is sometimes gnawing in nature. Symptoms such as belching, nausea, vomiting may also appear along with these radiating pains. Abdominal distension may also be present in such cases where Argentum Nitricum will prove one of the most effective medicines for stomach ulcers.

2. Nux Vomica – For Stomach Ulcers where Eating Worsens Pain

Nux Vomica has shown the most satisfactory results in stomach ulcer cases where pain in the stomach is felt from eating even the smallest amount of food. The stomach region is also sensitive to touch in such cases. Nux Vomica is also one of the best-suited medicines for stomach ulcers where spicy food, coffee, tobacco, and alcoholic drinks worsen the symptoms. Tightness and pressure may be felt in the stomach after eating. Nausea, vomiting, eructations, flatulence, and heartburn may accompany the above symptoms.

3. Kali Bichromicum – For Ulcers in Stomach

Kali Bichromicum is another of the top grade medicines for stomach ulcers. I have seen amazing recoveries in gastriculcer cases with Kali Bichromicum. It is indicated in round ulcers with a feeling of heaviness in the stomach soon after eating. The food seems to sit in the stomach like a load. Appetite is low in cases where Kali Bichromicum will work as one of the most effective Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers.

4. Lycopodium Clavatum – For Boated Abdomen

Lycopodium has proved itself as the most useful among medicines for stomach ulcers where the main symptoms are burning, constrictive pains attended with marked flatulence and fullness/bloating of the abdomen. Bloating starts soon after eating. A person in need of Lycopodium may get relief in pain from taking warm water. Farinaceous food like cabbage and beans worsen the symptoms. Lycopodium Clavatum is known among the best medicines for stomach ulcers with any of the above-mentioned symptoms.

5. Carbo Veg – For Stomach Ulcers

Carbo Veg is another of the prominently indicated medicines for stomach ulcers. It is most helpful when burning pain in the stomach is accompanied by sour belching or heartburn. The pain may extend from the stomach to the back. The epigastric area may also be sensitive and tender to touch. Eating the smallest amount of food, even light food, worsens the symptoms in such cases where Carbo Veg will prove the most effective among Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers to heal the condition.

6. Hydrastis Canadensis – For Stomach Ulcers with Weight Loss

In my clinical practice, Hydrastis has proved extremely effective in treating stomach ulcers where they are accompanied by weight loss and emaciation. A key symptom is a constant sore feeling in the stomach. Cutting and sharp pain in the stomach may also be present in cases where Hydrastis works as one of the most effective medicines for stomach ulcers. Weakness and a loathing of food in epigastrium are other symptoms to look out for. Hydrastis is also one of the major medicines for chronic gastritis.

7. Graphites – For Stomach Ulcers with Vomiting after Eating

In case of ulcers with vomiting immediately after eating food, Graphites has shown the most promising results among medicines for stomach ulcers. Constrictive and burning pain in the stomach is experienced after eating. Excessive belching, the taste of ingesta is also an attending symptom in such cases where Graphites is prescribed as one of the most reliable medicines for stomach ulcers.

8. Phosphorus – For Stomach Ulcers where Cold Drinks bring Relief

Phosphorus is rated among the most reliable medicines for stomach ulcers where having a cold drink relieves pain. Burning in the stomach after eating is complained of. Along with this, sour, bitter belching may also be experienced in such cases. Phosphorus is made its place among the top rated Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers with the above symptoms.

8 Effective Remedies for Bleeding Gums

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 29 Comments

At certain times, bleeding from gums can arise from brushing the teeth harshly and roughly. Wearing ill-fitting dentures and improper flossing can also lead to bleeding from gums. However, bleeding from gums that appear frequently can be a sign of gum disease or a more serious condition. It is therefore important to identify the reason behind frequent bleeding from gums. The common gum diseases where bleeding from gums can arise include gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (serious gum infection). Deficiency of vitamins, including vitamin C or vitamin K, may also lead to bleeding. Thrombocytopenia (deficiency of platelet cells that aid the clotting of blood) is another cause. Bleeding from gums can also appear during pregnancy due to the sensitivity of the gums that arises from hormonal changes. Taking blood thinners may also cause bleeding of gums. Hemophilia (a disorder in which blood doesn’t clot normally due to a lack of blood-clotting proteins) and Leukemia (blood cancer) are some of the serious causes of gum bleeding.

Homeopathy offers excellent treatment for cases of bleeding gums. Homeopathic medicines for treating bleeding gums are of natural origin and are very safe to use. They aim to treat the root cause behind bleeding gums to ensure a good recovery. Homeopathic medicines, along with managing bleeding gums, also help to manage associated complaints of gum swelling, pain, sensitivity, tenderness, and pus discharge from the gums wherever present.

As bleeding gums can arise from several causes, for long-term relief this cause needs to be treated. Homeopathy goes to the core of the problem and targets the underlying cause in every case. Thereby, it aims to provide cure rather than just providing temporary relief. Homeopathy yields wonderful results in acute as well as chronic cases of bleeding gums.

Homeopathic medicines for bleeding gums are prescribed for every case of bleeding gums individually. By following homeopathic treatment as per guidelines of a homeopathic doctor for prescribed time duration, most cases recover completely. The results vary as per the chronicity and severity of the complaint.

Homeopathic medicines offer safe treatment in cases of bleeding gums, as they do not have any adverse side effects. This is due to the reason that homeopathic medicines are prepared from natural substances like plants, minerals, etc. These are free of any toxins and act very gently and naturally in cases of bleeding gums.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines for Bleeding Gums

The top-grade medicines that are highly beneficial to treat bleeding gums are Merc Sol, Hamamelis, Kreosote, Phosphorus, Bovista, Silicea, Hepar Sulph and Carbo Veg.

1. Merc Sol – For Bleeding Gums in cases of Gum Infection/Inflammation (Gingivitis)

Merc Sol is a top-grade medicine to treat bleeding from gums in cases of gum infection/ inflammation (gingivitis). The gums are red, swollen and sore (painful to touch) in cases where Merc Sol is required. Swelling of the gums is most marked at night. A burning sensation is also felt in the gums with swelling and pain. The gums are spongy, receding, and may be partly destroyed with the loosening of the teeth. A fetid, putrid odor from the mouth is prominent. Copious saliva is present in the mouth. A characteristic metallic taste in the mouth is also felt along with the above symptoms.

When to use Merc Sol?

The use of this medicine is suggested to manage bleeding from gums with swelling and pain in gums in cases of gum infection and inflammation.

How to use Merc Sol?

Among its various available potenices, it is mostly recommended in 30C potency that can be taken once daily.

2. Hamamelis – To treat bleeding gums when blood is dark fluid

Hamamelis is a beneficial medicine for bleeding from the gums when blood is dark. The gums are sore, swollen, and spongy. They are also painful. Weakness and exhaustion may cause bleeding from gums, in many cases needing Hamamelis.

When to use Hamamelis?

Hamamelis is well indicated to manage dark-colored bleeding from gums.

How to use Hamamelis?

It can be used in 30C potency one to two times a day.

3. Kreosote – For Bleeding Gums from Inflammation

Kreosote is another well-indicated medicine for bleeding gums from gum inflammation (gingivitis). The gums are bluish-red, soft, puffy, inflamed and may be ulcerated. Bleeding from gums is dark red and slightly coagulated. Toothache and decaying of the tooth may also be marked.

When to use Kreosote?

This medicine is the best choice to deal with bleeding gums with bluish red, soft, and inflamed gums.

How to use Kreosote?

It is advised to use Kreosote 30C once a day.

4. Phosphorus – For Gums That Bleed On Touching

Phosphorus offers help for bleeding from gums that appears from even slight touching of the gums. The bleeding from gums is profuse in nature. The teeth may loosen from the gums. Gums may be inflamed and ulcerated too. Phosphorus is also indicated for persistent bleeding that follows tooth extraction.

When to use Phosphorus?

Phosphorus should be used to manage bleeding from gums on touching gums.

How to use Phosphorus?

It gives the best results in 30C power that can be taken once a day.

5. Bovista – For Cases of Easily Bleeding Gums

Bovista is a well-indicated medicine to manage the complaint of easily bleeding gums. A person needing Bovista tends to have frequent episodes of bleeding from gums. Bleeding from gums occurs often in them from sucking. The bleeding may be marked at night in cases where Bovista is indicated. Bovista is also helpful in controlling bleeding that follows tooth extraction.

When to use Bovista?

Bovista is an important medicine to help cases of bleeding gums that occur frequently.

How to use Bovista?

Bovista 30C once a day is recommended dose initially.

6. Silicea – For Gums that Ooze Blood and Pus due to Gum Infection

Silicea is a significant medicine for gums that ooze blood and pus due to gum infection. The gums are sore, inflamed, and very sensitive. Gums become painful on applying the slightest pressure. The the teeth may become loose along with the above symptoms. The tooth may decay, especially at night. Pain may be throbbing or tearing in nature.

When to use Silicea?

This medicine is highly valuable to treat cases of gum infection with oozing of blood and pus from gums.

How to use Silicea?

6X is the most preferred potency of this medicine that can be taken twice or thrice a day.

7. Hepar Sulph – For Bleeding and Tender Gums

Hepar Sulph is helpful to treat cases of bleeding and tender gums. The pain and bleeding from the gums appear from a slight touch. Throbbing type of pain is prominent in the gums. Ulcers also appear on the gums. Bitter taste in the mouth may be present.

When to use Hepar Sulph?

Hepar Sulph should be selected for cases of bleeding gums attending with pain in gums from the slightest touch.

How to use Hepar Sulph?

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

8. Carbo Veg – For Bleeding Gums upon Cleaning Teeth

Carbo Veg is useful for cases of bleeding of gums arising from cleaning teeth. The gums are sensitive and painful. Pain in the gums is mostly felt while chewing. Gums may also be ulcerated. There may be an attending complaint of receding of gums and loosening of teeth, in most cases needing Carbo Veg.

When to use Carbo Veg?

This medicine offers help in cases where bleeding from gums occurs on cleaning the teeth.

How to use Carbo Veg?

Initially, Carbo Veg 30C can be used two to three times a day. Once relief starts, the dose should be reduced.

6 Homeopathic Medicines to Treat Ingrown Toenails without Surgery

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 16 Comments

Ingrown toenails (also known as onychocryptosis) refers to a condition where the side of a toenail grows into the surrounding soft skin around the nail fold. This growth causes pain, swelling, and tenderness in the corner of the nail. The most commonly affected part is the big toe, but ingrown toenails can develop on any foot. An ingrown toenail can reoccur if not treated properly. Homeopathic treatment of ingrown toenail involves stimulating the body’s natural restorative process to help ease the pain and symptoms associated with the condition. Unless treated adequately, the condition can become a recurring problem.

Homeopathic Treatment of Ingrown Toenail

Homeopathic medicines for the treatment of ingrown toenails include Magnetis Polus Australis, Graphites Naturalis, Nitric Acid, Silicea and Myristica Sebifera.

1. Magnetis Polus Australis – For Ingrown Toenail with Pulsating Pain

Magnetis Polus Australis is the medicine indicated when there is an extreme pain in the ingrown toenail coupled with sharp, pulsating pain and intense soreness around the affected part.

2. Graphites Naturalis – For Ingrown Toenail in case of Thick Nails

Graphites commonly known as Black Lead Plumbago is derived from the crushed grain of purest black lead. This remedy was proved by the founder of homeopathy Dr. Samuel Hahnemann as a very effective remedy for skin complaints and ingrown toenails. Graphites Naturalis is a medicine that is used to treat ingrown toenails in cases where the nails are thick and rough.

3. Nitric Acid – For Ingrown Toenail with Splinter-like Sensation

Nitric acid is one of the popular remedy belonging to the mineral kingdom. This remedy is prepared by blending sodium nitrate and sulphuric acid. The use of Nitric Acid is indicated when the ingrown toenails cause a splinter-like sensation in the nail. The nails in such cases are curved, yellow or distorted.

4. Silicea and Myristica Sebifera – For Ingrown Toenail with Pus Discharge

Silicea commonly known as Pure flint is a leading homeopathic remedy of mineral kingdom and is derived from chemical compound silicon dioxide. The word Silica is originated from the Latin word Silex denoting Silicon Oxide. This remedy is well indicated for the ailments attended with pus formation. Myristica Sebifera is derived from Brazilian plant Ucuba belonging to the family Myristicaceae. This remedy is a great antiseptic and has great efficacy in treating ulcerative and suppurative conditions of cellular tissue and periosteum. Myristica Sebifera quickens the process of suppuration and shortens the period. This remedy is great in healing inflammatory and suppurative stages.
Silicea and Myristica Sebifera are the medicines indicated in cases of ingrown toenails when there is an infection with pus discharge in the affected nails. These medicines help relieve pain and clear up the discharge and are used widely for homeopathic treatment of ingrown toenail.

5. Teucrium Marum Verum – For Suppuration of Nail Groove

Teucrium Marum Verum is commonly known as Cat Thyme. Cat thyme plant belonging to the genus of the mint family is a very fragrant plant which is native of Spain and Western Mediterranean. This homeopathic remedy is prepared from freshly harvested part of the plant which is chopped gently and crushed. The final product is then macerated in alcohol. This homeopathic medicine helps in treating ingrown toenail successfully when accompanied by a suppurated toenail.

6. Hepar Sulphuris Calcareum – For Ingrown Toenail with Nail Infection

Hepar sulphuris calcareum commonly known as calcium Sulphide is a remedy prepared from oyster shells.
This remedy is usually indicated when ingrown toenail is followed by toenail infection. There is severe splinter-like pain in the affected area. It also helps to hasten the suppuration and shorten the period. When pus discharged is thick, yellow and offensive this remedy is best indicated.

Side Effects of Conventional Treatment

The conventional treatment for an ingrown toenail employs the use of oral antibiotics like erythromycin, cephalexin in the treatment of ingrown nail caused due to cellulitis or nail infections. The most common listed side effect of these antibiotics are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, vaginal itching, headache, rash.

Surgical options include wedge resection, matrixectomy, and Vandenbos procedure. These surgical interventions can definitely help you to get rid of ingrown nail immediately but there are chances for it to reoccur as well. During these surgeries usually, a tourniquet is used on the toe and a deep incision is made which often requires stitching and scar formation. Hence these procedures are quite invasive and painful. Treatment of ingrown toenail in homeopathy involves the use of certain homeopathic medicines that help reduce the pain, swelling, and tenderness around the skin surrounding the toenail. These medicines also help clear off pus discharges in case of Ingrown nails. As they are developed from natural substances, they are safe and show no side effects.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Factors predisposing a person towards developing ingrown toenails include wearing tight or ill-fitted footwear, trimming of the toenails either by cutting the nails too short or leaving the edges sharp, injury to the toenail, naturally curved toenails, genetic susceptibility, nail plate trauma which usually occur by dropping objects on the toenail or stubbing the toenail. Other causes can include using feet extensively during athletic activities (ballet, football, kickboxing ) in which repeatedly kicking of object or pressure on feet for long periods is involved can cause protrusion of the toenail which can lead to the injury of surrounding flesh resulting in an ingrown nail. Abnormally shaped nail bed, nail deformities caused by diseases or genetic susceptibility and improper foot hygiene such as not keeping feet clean or dry are other factors.

Risk Factors

Risk factors that may predispose the person to develop an ingrown nail are obesity, diabetes, kidney, thyroid and heart problems (which may cause foot and leg swelling), onychomycosis i.e fungal infection of nails, bony or soft tissue tumors of toes, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of feet), too small or too large shoe gear, abnormal gait and poor foot mechanics such as pronation, toe or foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes and flat foot, congenital toenail deformity abnormally long toes.

Signs and Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

Surrounding skin of the affected nail is painful, swollen and red and the affected part is usually tender. An infection may develop in the tissue surrounding the nail, leading to yellow or white pus discharge. The big toe gets affected in a majority of cases, either on one or both the feet.
Overgrowth of skin around the toe is common.

Complications

An untreated ingrown nail can cause a nail infection which can further progress to a foot ulcer, open sores, loss of blood flow to the infected area, scarring of surrounding skin and nail borders.
An ingrown nail can also progress to tissue decay and tissue death at the site of infection (cellulitis).
Diabetes can complicate ingrown nail as even small cut, scrape may quickly become infected due to lack of blood flow and nerve sensitivity.
Toenail infection due to the ingrown nail can progress to the bone causing infection (osteomyelitis).
Lichen planus can also be one of the complications for ingrown nail as in about 10 percent of cases it causes ridging, grooving, splitting and thinning of nails.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ingrown nail requires taking into account all possible causative factors and medical history.
An ingrown toenail can also be diagnosed with X-ray to show how deep the nail has grown into the skin.
X-Ray can also identify ingrown nail which was caused by injury.

Management of Ingrown Toenail

Some natural ways to treat ingrown nails may include:

1. Soaking the foot in warm, soapy water 2-3 times a day helps in keeping the area clean and free of bacteria. This can be very beneficial in softening the skin of the affected area, which can make it easier to draw out the toenail from the skin.
2. Direct application of apple cider vinegar diluted with purified water or foot soak in warm water with a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar can help in conditioning ingrown nails to fight bacteria.
3. Avoiding heels, tight shoes and wearing comfortable footwear can reduce down the pressure on the affected area. This can promote fast healing of the affected area.
4. Use of Essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil can provide natural pain relief from an ingrown nail by ultimately giving affected area a healthy environment to heal.This may also help in remarkable reduction of inflammation.