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Rhus Tox – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications and Dosage

Rhus Tox is a homeopathic medicine prepared from the fresh leaves of a plant named Poison Ivy. This poison ivy belongs to a family of flowering plants known as Anacardiaceae. This plant is generally found in the North American region. The leaves of this plant before its flowering time are gathered at sunset and potentized (a process by which homeopathic remedies are prepared). By the potentization process, the medicinal properties of this plant are extracted leaving behind any of its poisonous effects. Rhus Tox is widely used to treat joint pain, muscle pain, back pain, complaint of tendons and ligaments.

The ‘Rhus Tox’ Constitution

This remedy is well-suited to people of rheumatic diathesis i.e who are prone to suffer from joint pains. Next, it is adapted to people having sensitive skin prone to allergies, skin rash, eczema, hives.

Drug Action

Among the various body parts, the medicine is most commonly used to treat complaints related to joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is also highly recommended for treating back pain and stiffness. Apart from the above, it is beneficial to treat a number of skin ailments including vesicular (fluid filled) eruptions, urticaria (hives), herpes zoster (shingles), fever blisters and eczema.

Scope as a Homeopathic Medicine

1. Joint and Muscle Pain, Sprain

This medicine yields excellent results in wide range of joint pains. Joint pains from various reasons including arthritis (inflamed joints), gout (high uric acid), osteoarthritis (degeneration of joints) are treated with this medicine. Apart from this one can also use this medicine to ease joint pain arising from injuries, inflamed / damaged tendons and ligaments. A person having complaint of joint pain from sprain (i.e. stretching or tearing of ligaments that connect two bones together in the joints) can also be treated with this medicine. It is effective to reduce pain in joint as well as the attending swelling, stiffness arising in any of the joints in the body. Cracking sounds in joint and weakness of joints also get better with this medicine. It can also be taken in cold weather when the joint pains intensify.

In addition to above, it is also used treat muscle pains (myalgia), bone pain, general body aches, inflamed tendons/ligaments, and injuries. The patients experience extreme restlessness along with above mentioned complaints. They may have worsening of pain while at rest and relief by moving around.

2. Back and Neck Pain

This medicine is very effective to treat cases of back pain, back stiffness, back injury, back strains, and neck pain.

It is highly recommended to use this medicine in persons having painful and stiff neck. This pain can further extend to the shoulders, and may increase from exposure to cold air. This is a major medicine used for treating cervical spondylosis (degenerative changes in the spine of neck region). Whiplash injuries of neck are also best treated with this remedy. Whiplash injury refers to neck injury that arise from rapid forward and backward movement of neck that commonly seen in motor vehicle accidents

It is an incomparable medicine when its comes to treating back pain and stiffness. People requiring this medicine have marked lower back pain and often feels as if back is broken. They majorly complain of worsening of back pain when at rest, sitting still, stooping and on rising from seat. Relief is obtained by moving about, from exercise and also by hard pressure. Back ache arising from injuries and from lifting heavy weight is also treated with this remedy.

3. Lower Limb Complaints

In case of lower limbs, this remedy effectively treats sciatica and restless leg syndrome

Sciatica refers to a pain that radiates from lower back through the hips down the leg along the path of the sciatic nerve. It helps to relief violent tearing, lightening like, burning pain in back radiating down to thigh, knee and leg. It also helps to manage numbness and formication (sensation of insects crawling under the skin) that arise from nerve irritation. Persons needing it may have increase of pain at night that cause sleeplessness. They feel the pain more when keeping still and in cold weather. They may obtain relief by heat, rubbing and moving around.

Next, it is of intense help in cases of restless leg syndrome which refers to a condition where a person has an uncontrollable urge to move the legs to relieve discomforting sensations in the lower limbs. Restlessness of lower limbs is manageable with this homeopathic medicine. The person needing it have restless legs in bed at night. They get relief by motion.

4. Skin Complaints

It is a very beneficial medicine to treat skin allergies, eruptions, and rashes.

It is a frequently used medicine for treating urticaria (raised itchy bumps on skin from an allergic reaction). It is used when there are circular elevated bumps (wheals) on skin. The skin surrounding the bumps is swollen. It is attended with burning, intolerable itching, tingling, stinging and stitching pain in the blotches. It is also specific to treat tendency of urticarial eruptions that appear in cold air and from becoming wet.

Secondly it is indicated for treating herpes zoster (a viral infection characterized by a stripe of painful blisters on skin). Rhus Tox helps to heal eruptions in such cases. It also reduces itching, tingling, burning sensation and pain in eruptions. It is also prominent to treat neuralgic (nerve) pains that remain after healing of herpes zoster eruptions.

Next, it is a leading medicine to treat fever blisters, which is a viral infection where tiny, fluid-filled blisters appear on and around the lips in clusters. Rhus Tox helps heal clusters of blisters filled with a watery substance, appearing near corners of mouth and on margin of lower lip. It also reduces the pain, soreness and biting sensation in them.

Another indication to use it is eczema. Here it is used when there are thick crusty eruptions on the skin. The surface is raw, excoriated. There is oozing of fluid which is offensive in nature. The lesions burn and itch and have tingling pains.

Its use is also considered in cases of skin rash. In such cases intolerable itching and terrible burning are present. There is marked restlessness especially at night due to itching in them.

It is also valuable to treat vesicular eruptions that itch and burn intensely. The affected skin area is dark red, burning, hot. The vesicles are filled with yellow watery fluid in cases requiring this medicine. The vesicles eventually dry and skin desquamates.

Lastly, it is useful to treat boils, abscess, carbuncles. These are the skin infections with pus filled lumps on skin. This remedy helps to fight with the infection and clear off pus discharges or blood stained discharges in them. It also relieve the pain, swelling and stinging sensations in them.

5. Throat Complaints

This medicine has a marked action to reduce inflammation of the throat, larynx (voice box) and esophagus (esophagitis).

It is given in sore throat cases when there are stitching pains in the throat. These pains worsen form talking. It is accompanied by dryness in throat, inability to drink or eat . It is valuable to treat inflamed larynx with hoarseness arising from overstraining of the voice. People needing this remedy may experience worsening of this complaint in the evening and also from change of weather. In addition to above, another indication is esophagitis with pain that worsens with eating and drinking. Esophagitis, especially after swallowing corrosive substances is most indicative to use this medicine.

6. Eye Complaints

When it comes to eye complaints, this is a significant remedy to treat iritis, styes, and photophobia.

It works well in cases of iritis (inflammation of iris I.e. the colored ring around the eye’s pupil). It is useful to manage Iritis of traumatic (arising from injury) and rheumatic origin (that follows joint inflammation). Here pain in eyes shooting to back of head are marked. Excessive flow of hot tears is also well noted. Suppuration (pus formation) may also be present.

It also treat cases of styes in an excellent manner. Styes are painful, red bump on margin of eyelid from an infection. In such cases, it treats styes present on the lower lid. It helps to reduce redness, swelling, hardness, and pain of the stye.

Next, it works to treat cases of photophobia (symptom of discomfort or pain in the eyes from bright light exposure). It is applicable for cases of intense photophobia when attended with profuse lachrymation (watering from eyes). It is most worse in morning and in open air in such cases.

7. Female Complaints

It is very significant medicine to treat uterine prolapse and sore nipples in females.

This is a prominent medicine to treat cases of uterine prolapse. Females needing it feel bearing down in pelvis with a sensation as if uterus is lying low down in pelvis. This interferes with walking. Due to this urination is also frequent and painful in them. Prolapse of uterus after delivery, from straining or lifting heavy weight is also well treated with it. It strengthens the muscles and supporting ligaments that keep the uterus well in its place. Secondly, it treats the complaint of sore nipples after delivery. The key features to use this medicine are sore nipples with eruption and itching, burning. Burning appears after scratching the eruptions. Sweating worsens the complaints.

8. Urinary complaints

In case of urinary complaints, it works well to manage the complaint of weak bladder in females with frequent desire to urinate. It is also indicated for bladder paralysis and bed wetting issues. It is effective to manage complaint of constant dribbling of urine in boys.

9. Fever

In case of fever, this remedy is considered when extreme body aches, restlessness, with alternate heat and chill is there. In typhoid fever dry cracked tongue with red tip, diarrhoea, restlessness (both mental and physical), mental confusion are present in cases where this medicine is indicated.

Dosage

Rhus Tox can be taken two to three times a day in 30 potency. Use of high potencies like 200, 1M, 10 M should be taken only on a physician’s recommendation.

Relationship to Other Remedies

Complementary medicines are Bryonia, Calcarea Fluor and Phytolacca. These medicines can be used after Rhus Tox to complete its action when it is no longer acting.

Inimical medicine is Apis Mellifica which means Apis Mellifica should not be used after Rhus Tox.

Antidotes are Belladonna, Merc Sol and Sulphur, which can neutralize the action.

Rhus Tox – Homeopathic medicine its uses indications and dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 391 Comments

Rhus Toxicodendron is a top grade homeopathic medicine very often for varying types of pains. Also called as Rhus Tox, finds its usage in pains including joint pains, muscle pain, backache and general body aches. Homeopathic medicine Rhus Tox is a highly effective medicine for getting quick relief in general body aches. It also has marked action on ligaments and tendons. It is very useful in all cases of over-stretching, overexertion and overstraining.

Clinical Indications for the use of Rhus Tox:

Rheumatoid Arthritis , Body aches, Backache, Joint Pains, Muscle pains, Sprains, Injuries, Ligaments and tendons complaints, Over lifting, Fever blisters, Herpes zoster, Drenching in rain complaints, fever.

1.Body aches: General body aches, Body aches during fever, Body aches with restlessness, muscle pains.

2. backache: a Backache with stiffness.

3.Joint Pains: Joint pains as in rheumatism, gout, frozen shoulder.

4.Muscle pains: Pain in muscles, muscle pull, overstretched muscles, muscle pains following exertion.

5.Sprains: Stretching or tearing of ligaments due to falling or twisting.

6.Injuries: Injuries to muscle, tendons, and ligaments.

7.Ligaments and tendons complaints: Ruptured, torn, overstretched ligaments; Tendonitis.

8.Over lifting: Complaints due to over lifting, overstraining and overexertion.

9.Fever blisters: Fever blisters around mouth and chin.

10.Herpes zoster: Herpetic eruptions with much burning and intense nerve pain.

11.Drenching in rain complaints: Complaints from getting wet in rain including fever, cough, cold, body aches.

12.fever: Fever with chills and shivering, Body aches with fever.

Guiding Features for the use of Rhus tox:

1.Homeopathic medicine Rhus Tox must be considered in any or every kind of body aches including general body aches, joint pains and back pain. It has great power to relieve the body aches quickly.

2.In cases of injuries to tendons, ligaments, and muscles Homeopathic medicine Rhus Tox should be considered as the first line of treatment without a second thought for prompt and speedy recovery.

3.Homeopathic medicine Rhus Tox must be used in all cases of sprains, strains, overstretching and over lifting to get excellent results.

4.Rhus Tox should be considered as the first homeopathic prescription in complaints after getting wet in rain including cold, cough, fever, body aches.

5.In most persons needing Homeopathic medicine, Rhus Tox restlessness accompanies the majority of complaints and continued motion seems to give relief. First motion is painful.

6. Rhus tox leads the homeopathic table for treating Rheumatoid Arthritis, especially when morning stiffness and pain are the most predominant symptoms

Dose: Homeopathic medicine Rhus Tox can be used in 30C to 1M potency depending upon the severity of the disease and can be repeated frequently.

Caution: Although Homeopathic medicine Rhus Tox is safe to use without any side effects but advice from homeopathic physician must be considered and self prescription be avoided.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and its Treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1,042 Comments

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Homeopathy

Weather is known to have an effect on rheumatoid arthritis. It is quite known that arthritis patients show an increase in their symptoms during cold weather. Winters can be very bad for some of them. Even wet weather aggravates the condition for many patients. Some RA (rheumatoid arthritis) patient seems to be too sensitive about weather changes. So much so that they often come up saying that they know ? it,s going to rain? as their joints start to ache.

[Read more…]

Top 10 Homeopathic Remedies for Shingles

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 326 Comments

Shingles is a viral disease characterized by a very painful skin rash that usually erupts in the form of cluster blisters on the body. It is also known as Herpes Zoster. The outbreak of shingles presents itself in the form of a cluster of fluid-filled blisters. The hallmark of shingles is that it affects only one side of the body. The blisters are located as a band or strip on one side of the chest and do not cross the midline. Other locations include one side of the forehead or eye. Many patients develop only one episode of shingles in their life, but some people may have recurrent episodes depending on their immunity. The causative agent of Shingles is VZV (Varicella Zoster Virus). The reactivation of VZV causes shingles, and it is the same virus that causes chickenpox (varicella). Only those who ever had chickenpox can develop shingles later in their life. The first exposure to VZV that most commonly occurs in childhood or adolescent leads to chickenpox.

After one is treated for chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in some nerve cells of the spine of our body. When the VZV is in an inactive state in our body, it shows no symptoms. In some people, the virus can get reactivated again due to several factors (not known) and travel along the nerve pathway. It then reaches the skin of the particular area supplied by that nerve and can cause shingles (painful blisters).

Homeopathy is the best alternative treatment mode to treat shingles/herpes zoster in a gentle, yet effective manner. Homeopathy treats shingles magnificently and also reduces the chances of recurrence of the disease. Homeopathy aims to fight viral infection causing shingles to aid symptom relief and complete recovery gradually. By administering well-indicated homeopathic medicines according to characteristic symptoms of the affected patients, great results may be seen. Timely homeopathic treatment also reduces the chances of complications to a great extent. There is no cure for shingles through the conventional system of medicine; medications are aimed to reduce the duration of shingles episodes and to minimize the intensity of pain. Some commonly used medicines in such mode include anti-virals, analgesics (pain medications), and corticosteroids. All these can have side effects. On the other hand, homeopathic medicines have no side effects at all.

Why Choose Homoeopathy? It boosts body’s self – healing mechanism

To help in complete recovery from shingles, homeopathic medicines reach the root cause which is a viral infection. Homeopathic remedies help boost immunity to reduce the intensity of the symptoms initially and gradually offer complete recovery. This way it leads to natural healing in a very gentle, harmless way.

Long term cure rather than suppression

In homeopathic treatment of shingles, medicines work to clear the infection from its roots rather than suppressing it. This yields long-term results rather than just temporary relief. This is achieved with oral medicines taken through the mouth that works on the internal body and not just the surface of the skin. This heals in remarkable recovery.

Effective for post-herpetic neuralgia too

Homeopathy also works very well for post-herpetic neuralgia cases. Homeopathy can naturally help in reducing the intensity of the pain. With time, homeopathic medicines help get rid of this pain entirely without making the person dependent upon them.

Safe Medicines with no side effects

One can easily rely on use of homeopathic medicines as these have no side effects because of their natural origin. These medicines always work to treat health issues without causing any harm.

Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines for Shingles

The 10 most prominently indicated homeopathic medicines for managing shingles are Rhus Toxicodendron, Ranunculus Bulbosus, Mezereum, Natrum Muriaticum, Mercurius Solubilis, Arsenicum Album, Hypericum Perforatum, Sulphur, Apis Mellifica and Croton Tiglium.

1 .Rhus Toxicodendron– Top Grade Medicine For Shingles

Rhus Toxicodendron is a very useful medicine in Herpes Zoster with intense itching in the affected part of the skin. There is also an accompanying burning sensation. It is also a top medicine for managing post herpetic neuralgia with nerve pains and burning sensation after herpes zoster.

When to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

This medicine works wonderfully to manage shingles with marked itching and burning sensation in the rash.

How to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

Among its various potencies, it is best to begin with 30C potency once or twice a day.

2. Ranunculus Bulbosus – For Shingles With Bluish Blackish Vesicles

Ranunculus Bulbosus is a principle medicine for treating herpes zoster with bluish-blackish coloured vesicles. The blisters are filled with fluid and a burning sensation is felt. Itching and burning sensation aggravates from touch. It is also well indicated to manage sharp stitching pain that follows herpes affecting intercostal nerves.

When to use Ranunculus Bulbosus?

This medicine suits well if there is formation of bluish-black vesicles with itching and burning sensation that gets worse from even a slight touch.

How to use Ranunculus Bulbosus?

One may take this medicine once a day at 30C power.

3. Mezereum – For Shingles with Severe Nerve Pain

Mezereum is the most notable medicine to help cases of shingles with marked nerve pain. The eruptions are covered with brownish scabs. There is itching in the eruptions. On scratching, a burning sensation is felt on the affected skin part. Besides, it is effective to manage burning pain after the rash has healed fully.

When to use Mezereum?

Mezereum should be prescribed to manage shingles with marked nerve pain in eruptions.

How to use Mezereum?

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

4. Natrum Muriaticum– For Shingles with Blisters Leaving Rough Scaly Skin

Natrum Mur offers effective treatment for shingles when watery blisters burst and leave rough, scaly/flaky skin. Blisters form on the part of the skin that has a burning sensation. Its use is also preferred for crusty, dry eruptions that form in the bends of the limbs and margins of the scalp.

When to use Natrum Muriaticum?

This medicine should be used to treat Herpes Zoster if blisters appear on the skin and are preceded by a burning sensation. On bursting, they leave scaly, rough skin.

How to use Natrum Muriaticum?

It is best to take this medicine in 6X potency twice or thrice a day.

5. Mercurius Solubilis– For Band-Like Rash Encircling The Body

Merc Sol is a suitable medicine for shingles when the rash shapes up on the lower back and extends to the navel and encircles the body. There are blisters that ooze watery discharge from scratching. Fire-like burning sensation is felt due to eruptions from time to time. There is also a tendency of pus formation in the eruptions. Excessive itching is felt in the eruptions.

When to use Mercurius Solubilis?

The key indication to use this medicine in shingles is skin rash starting from the lower back that goes to the navel and encircles the body.

How to use Mercurius Solubilis?

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. In most cases, 30C potency is administered once a day.

6. Arsenicum Album – For Shingles with Burning Pains Relieved by Warmth

Arsenic Album is administered in shingles when there is intense burning sensation, cutting or needle-like pain causing restlessness despite weakness. Eruptions may be small, dark, or slow to heal. Sometimes that tends to ulcerate. The patient feels chilly, there is desire for warmth, and the patient may show anxiety about health with marked prostration. Symptoms typically worsen after midnight. It is particularly useful in the elderly or debilitated patients and in post-herpetic neuralgia with hypersensitivity to cold.

When to use Arsenicum album?

This remedy is most useful in cases of burning sensation accompanied by marked exhaustion, anxiety, and chilliness. It should also be considered when neuralgia persists after the eruption heals and warmth provides relief.

How to use Arsenicum album ?

It can be administered in 30C potency every 4–6 hours in the acute stage. The potency may be reduced as improvement sets in.

7. Hypericum Perforatum – For Violent Radiating Nerve Pain

Hypericum Perforatum acts quite deep on injured or inflamed nerves. It is also indicated when shingles follow a clear nerve distribution. The pain is shooting, tearing, or electric in nature. Skin becomes extremely sensitive and even slight touch can cause severe suffering. It is particularly helpful for spinal, facial, or digital involvement and in post-herpetic neuralgia. This medicine is valuable in shingles that involve areas rich in nerve supply or when pain continues long after the vesicles have healed.

When to use Hypericum Perforatum?

This medicine should be administered when neuralgia is the most striking feature, especially if the pain is sharp, shooting, or radiates along the affected nerve.

How to use Hypericum Perforatum?

It can be administered in 30C two or three times daily; higher potencies such as 200 C or 1000C can be used in neuralgia.

8. Sulphur- For Chronic Burning Eruptions with Delayed Healing

Sulphur is mainly indicated in chronic or unhealthy skin conditions. Eruptions that have burning sensation, itchy, and slow to heal are very well managed with this medicine. The patient feels hot, dislikes being covered, and often experiences burning of soles or vertices. Skin may look dry, dirty, or scaly. It is also useful as an intercurrent remedy (a specialised remedy administered when during the course of treatment of a disease progress has stalled).

When to use Sulphur?

Sulphur should be prescribed in chronic or lingering cases especially if the healing is delayed, itching and burning persists, or eruptions tend to relapse.

How to use Sulphur?

It is recommended to take a single dose 200C or short course of 30C depending on the intensity of the symptoms.

9. Apis mellifica – For Stinging, Oedematous Eruptions Relieved by Cold

Apis Mellifica is particularly administered in the early inflammatory stage when skin appears red, swollen, shiny, and oedematous. Vesicles are fluid-filled with stinging pains. The patient is thirstless, heat aggravates, and cold applications relieve. Emotional irritability and sudden onset of the symptoms are often present.

When to use Apis Mellifica?

Apis Mellifica is most appropriate in the initial stage of shingles when inflammation predominates, with marked swelling, redness, and stinging pains. It should be considered when the patient feels better from cold applications and worse from heat, and when vesicles appear tense and fluid-filled.

How to use Apis Mellifica ?

It can be administered 30C every 3–4 hours initially; the frequency can be reduced after inflammation starts reducing. It is advised to take under the guidance of a qualified homeopath.

10. Croton Tiglium – For Clustered Vesicles with Violent Itching

Croton Tiglium is especially suited for shingles of chest, abdomen, or back with clustered vesicles and intense itching mixed with burning sensation. Pain may radiate inwards or backwards. Even slight touch or clothing aggravates itching. Vesicles may rupture easily and ooze.

When to use Croton Tiglium?

This remedy should be considered in thoracic shingles if itching and burning sensation are intense and where the skin is extremely sensitive to touch or pressure. It is particularly helpful when vesicles appear in clusters and the slightest friction aggravates the pain.

How to use Croton Tiglium?

It can be used 30C every 4–6 hours during the acute stage under the guidance of a homeopathic physician.

Contributing Factors that Lead to Shingles

1. Stress: Emotional or psychological stress makes a person more prone to develop shingles since chronic or intense stress weakens our immune system.

2. Increasing Age: Shingles most commonly occur after 50 years of age. The risk of shingles increases with age. It is rarely seen among the children, but older people are more prone to it due to compromised immunity.

3. Impaired Immune System: Shingles mostly develop in people with a weak immune system. Certain diseases like HIV/AIDS, cancer, a long history of medicines intake, long-term use of steroids or immuno-suppressive drugs, autoimmune disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases) make a person more prone to develop shingles.

Shingles – Signs and Symptoms

Early symptoms: The initial symptoms of shingles before the rash develops include fever and feeling of weakness. There may be a feeling of pain, burning and tingling sensation in the affected area.

Skin Rash: Skin rashes in shingles appear as pinkish or red blotches that appear in the form of a band over one side of the trunk (the most common site) along the nerve pathway. The person can also feel shooting type of pain on the rash. At this stage, shingles are not contagious.

Blisters: Blisters are a cluster of fluid-filled eruptions that appear after the rash. They appear as a band over one side of the trunk, and can also develop over one side of the forehead or eye. Blisters continue to grow for many days.

Scab Formation: Over a period of seven to ten days, blisters sometimes ooze a contagious liquid, start becoming cloudy and begin to flatten. Gradually scab starts forming over the flattened blisters. It can take approximately one to two weeks for complete crust formation over the blisters.
At this stage, there are fewer chances of transmission of the virus. The pain also starts subsiding, but in some people, pain continues for months or years.

The Shingles ‘Belt’: Shingles is also referred to as ‘shingles girdle’ or ‘shingles band’ since it looks like a belt or half belt when it appears around the waist or rib cage. Shingles is easily recognizable due to this classic presentation.

Shingles on the Face: Shingles on the face appear in different parts.

Zoster Ophthalmicus: Shingles may commonly involve the trigeminal nerve of the face. The ophthalmic branch is most commonly involved, and when the virus gets reactivated in this nerve branch, it is referred to as zoster ophthalmicus. In some cases, it can cause blindness. The skin of the forehead, the orbit of the eye and upper eyelids may also be involved.

Shingles Oticus: It refers to shingles which involve the ear. It develops when the virus travels from the facial nerve to the vestibulocochlear nerve. In this condition, there are chances of hearing loss and vertigo.

Widespread Shingles: A shingles rash is referred to as a widespread rash when it occurs on more than twenty skin lesions supplied by separate spinal nerves. It is more likely to occur among people with a weak immune system. Infections can also occur in open blisters and can lead to permanent scarring of skin in some individuals.

Healing: In many people, the skin rash starts healing within two to four weeks. Some people are left with minor scars while in some, complete healing without any scarring is observed. Some people can also have continued pain for months or longer after healing has taken place at the site of the rash. This is referred to as post herpetic neuralgia.

Are Shingles Contagious?

Active blisters are contagious. The infection (VZV) can be transmitted to other people through direct contact with the infected people. However, the other person will first develop chickenpox, not shingles if the person never had a VZV infection earlier. On the other hand, if a person has had chickenpox earlier and he gets exposed to the VZV infection, there is a likelihood of developing shingles.

Shingles: Complications

1. Post Herpetic Neuralgia: In some cases, even after the shingles blisters have been cured, the pain continues. When pain persists for more than 90 days, it is termed as Post Herpetic Neuralgia. In some persons, pain continues for months or years even after the herpetic lesions have subsided. Post herpetic neuralgia is most commonly seen with shingles in the mouth which occurs when the mandibular division or the maxillary part of the trigeminal nerve is involved.

2. Neurological Issues: Shingles can cause facial paralysis, hearing problems and issues of balance depending upon which nerves are involved in the infection.

3. Loss of Vision: When shingles involve the eyes, it can cause infection in the eyes and subsequent loss of vision in some cases.

4. Encephalitis: In sporadic cases, shingles may lead to inflammation of the brain resulting in encephalitis (acute inflammation in the brain).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does the rash of shingles look?

The rash typically begins as a reddish patch that quickly develops into clusters of fluid-filled vesicles arranged in a band-like pattern along the path of the nerve. These blisters may burst, crust, and heal over two to four weeks, often leaving temporary pigmentation.

2. How soon should homoeopathic medicines be initiated in shingles?

It should be initiated in early stages even during inflammatory stages, before eruption appears. Early intervention can help in controlling the severity and extent of the disease.

3. Can homoeopathy help in preventing scarring after shingles?

Yes, homeopathic medicines help in natural healing of the eruptions if administered properly on the basis of skin type, type of eruptions and constitutional features of the individual.

4. How long does shingles usually last?

The active phase of shingles typically lasts two to four weeks. Pain may persist longer, especially among the older individuals. With appropriate treatment and supportive care, healing may occur faster and the risk of neuralgia can be reduced.

5. How can homeopathy help in shingles?

Homeopathy aims to reduce the intensity of the eruptions, and relieve one of the burning sensation and neuralgic pain. It heals faster, and lowers the chance of post-herpetic neuralgia. Remedies are selected individually based on the patient’s pain character, skin symptoms, general constitution, and modalities rather than only on the diagnosis.

6. What precautions should a patient with shingles take?

Patients should keep the affected area clean and dry, avoid scratching or rupturing the vesicles, wear loose cotton clothing, and rest adequately. Stress reduction, proper nutrition, and hydration helps in recovery. Close contact with infants, pregnant women, and immuno-compromised persons should be avoided until crusting occurs.

7. What diet is advisable in shingles?

A light, nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein helps support immunity and healing. Patients should avoid excessive spicy food, junk food, alcohol, and refined sugars, as these may aggravate inflammation and delay recovery.

8. When should a patient seek urgent medical care?

Immediate medical attention is required if shingles affects the eye, face, or ear; if severe pain or high fever develops; if the patient is elderly or immuno-compromised; or if blisters show signs of secondary infection such as pus, increasing redness, or swelling.

9. Can shingles recur?

Yes, although uncommon, shingles may recur, especially among individuals with weakened immunity or chronic stress. Strengthening general health, improving immunity, and constitutional homeopathic treatment may help reduce recurrence.

10 .Who are prone to develop shingles?

Shingles is more common in elderly individuals, people with weakened immunity, patients under prolonged stress, diabetics, cancer patients, or those taking immunosuppressive drugs. However, it can also occur among younger individuals following severe stress, infections, or exhaustion.

Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines for Back Pain

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 847 Comments

Back pain is a very common health issue that can affect people of any age group. Back pain refers to pain felt anywhere between the cervical to coccyx region along the back, however, the lower back, is the most vulnerable. The cause of back pain can lie in any of these structures in the backbone including vertebrae, intervertebral disc, spinal cord, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Homeopathy offers a very effective and safe treatment for back pain. It aims to treat the underlying causes of the back pain to provide relief. Homeopathic medicines also manage other associated symptoms of pain like stiffness in the back, radiation of pain to legs, numbness, tingling, etc. It is highly advantageous as it does not carry any risk of dependence, unlike conventional medicines like painkillers, muscle relaxants, and topical pain-relieving medicines like creams, gels, and sprays. They only provide temporary pain from relief as they do not treat the root cause of the back pain. Here homeopathy is a great alternative to treat back pain that provides long-term relief by fixing the root cause. With the regular use of homeopathic medicines for the period suggested by a homeopathic physician, the dependence on painkillers can be minimised.

Homeopathy addresses the root cause

Since the back pain can have various causes such as muscle strain, arthritis, injuries, and disc bulge, therefore, to get long-lasting relief, the root cause of the problem needs to be identified and treated. Here homeopathy fulfils this objective by addressing the root cause and effects a magical recovery.

Natural medicines with no side effects

In homeopathy, every medicine used for treating back pain is naturally obtained, hence it ensures there are no side effects and are safe for use among all the age groups.

Individualised Treatment

Homeopathy offers a wide range of highly effective remedies for back pain. These medicines are prescribed after detailed analysis and evaluation of symptoms in every single individual. The cause, nature of pain, and worsening/relieving factor of pain are all given importance to select a homeopathic remedy for the back pain. Not just the medicine, but the potency as well as its dose is selected individually for every case.

Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines for Back Pain

The 10 top most homeopathic medicines that are effective in back pain treatment are Rhus Toxicodendron, Bryonia Alba, Aesculus Hippocastanum, Kali Carbonicum, Arnica Montana, Cobaltum, Colocynthis, Guaiacum Officinale, Ruta Graveolens and Hypericum Perforatum.

1. Rhus Toxicodendron– Top Grade Medicine for Back Pain

Rhus Tox is a top medicine for treating back pain. The characteristic symptom indicating its use is worsening of pain while at rest and relief from walking or when one moves. It is the best choice to find relief from back pain due to muscle strain, overstraining/overstretching from lifting a heavy weight or in cases of arthritis. It is also an appropriate choice of medicine in cases where the back pain gets better by applying pressure.

When to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

This medicine is recommended to manage back pain which becomes worse at rest and gets better from movement especially when the pain is due to muscle strain, overstraining/overstretching or from arthritis.

How to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

One may take this medicine in 30 C potency two to three times a day depending on the intensity of the pain. To use its higher potencies like 200C, one needs to consult a qualified homeopath.

2. Bryonia Alba – For Pain that Worsens with Motion

Bryonia Alba is another top medicine for treating back pain. A key symptom to use Bryonia Alba is that the back pain aggravates with motion. Walking also worsens the pain. Rest brings relief. Bryonia Alba is also the most reliable medicine for treating back pain that becomes more severe with stooping and standing.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

This medicine can also be considered when back pain aggravates from the slightest movement as well as from standing, and it gets better by taking rest.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

Though, this medicine can be prescribed in both low and high potencies, initially it is safe to take 30C potency twice a day. Later, potency can be raised but only after consulting a qualified homeopath.

3. Aesculus Hippocastanum – For Back Pain in Sacrum Region

Aesculus Hippocastanum is a main medicine for back pain affecting the sacrum region (it is a triangle-shaped bony structure at the base of the spine). The pain may extend to the hip along with the sacrum back. Walking and stooping increases the pain. For those who need to be administered Aesculus Hippocastanum, getting up from a sitting position is quite a challenge. Intense stiffness is observed in the sacrum and hip region along with the pain.

When to use Aesculus Hippocastanum?

It is the most suitable medicine for managing back pain in sacral region that mostly worsens from walking and stooping.

How to use Aesculus Hippocastanum?

It can be taken two to three times daily in 30C power.

4. Kali Carbonicum – For Back Pain in Women Post Childbirth

For back pain in women after childbirth, Kali Carb is considered to be very effective. The pain may aggravate on walking and there is a need to stop and take rest before one starts walking again. There is a desire to lie down for relief from the back pain. Stiffness or excessive weakness in the back may also cause the pain. Kali Carb is also useful for back pain in women during menses or after a miscarriage.

When to use Kali Carbonicum?

It is the best medicine to manage back pain among women after childbirth.

How to use Kali Carbonicum?

It works wonderfully in 30C potency and can be taken two times a day.

5. Arnica Montana – For Post-Injury Back Pain

Arnica Montana is one of the top medicines for treating back pain due to injury. Back pain arising from falls or blows – of both recent and remote origin – responds wonderfully to these medicines. Those who need Arnica Montana have sore, bruised pain in the back as if one has been beaten. This may be accompanied by lameness in the back.

When to use Arnica Montana?

It is a leading homeopathic medicine to manage cases of backache that results from an injury like a fall or a blow on the back.

How to use Arnica Montana?

Both low and high potencies of this medicine work well. However, it is advised to begin with low potency during the initial days. Arnica 30C potency can be taken twice or thrice a day.

6. Cobaltum Metallicum– For Back Pain from Prolonged Sitting

Cobaltum is used if the pain in the back gets worse in the sitting position. The pain usually radiates from the lower back down to the legs and feet. Weakness in the legs may be felt. However, walking may relieve one of back pain.

When to use Cobaltum Metallicum?

This medicine can be used when the pain aggravates in the sitting position.

How to use Cobaltum Metallicum?

A person may use this medicine in 30C potency once a day.

7. Colocynthis – For Lower Back Pain Radiating Down The Lower Limbs

Colocynthis is a very effective medicine for back pain radiating down the legs. Colocynthis is helpful for back pain radiating down the limbs on the left side. The one who needs Colocynthis may get relief by applying pressure on the affected areas. The pain can be tearing or drawing in nature.

When to use Colocynthis?

The key feature to use this medicine is pain in the lower back that extends down to the lower limbs.

How to use Colocynthis?

It is advised to take Colocynth 30C two to three times a day depending on the intensity of the symptom.

8. Guaiacum Officinale – For Back Pain in Cervical (neck) Region

The most effective medicine for treating cervical back pain is Guaiacum Officinale. The symptoms for the use of Guaiacum Officinale are pain and stiffness in the cervical back and shoulders. Pain may also radiate to the back of the head. The shoulders may be sensitive to touch.

When to use Guaiacum Officinale?

This medicine can be administered to those who experience pain in cervical back i.e., neck area and the pain radiates to the shoulders, and the back of the head. Stiffness is also mostly felt in the neck.

How to use Guaiacum Officinale?

This medicine is preferred in 30C potency and can be taken twice or thrice a day.

9. Ruta Graveolens –For Back Pain from Over Strained Tendons and Ligaments

Ruta Graveolens is a natural medicine prepared from the plant “Rue Bitterwort”. It is mostly administered in the back pain that results from straining of tendons, ligaments, or periosteum, especially due to overuse, lifting of weight, or sprain. The pain feels similar to that of a bruise. There is soreness and stiffness as well. It is also useful in lumbar strain, postural backache, and injury-related pain. There is accompanied stiffness and sore sensation in the lower back as if one has been beaten. The lower back feels extremely weak. The pain worsens on lying down.

When to use Ruta Graveolens?

It is indicated when pain occurs after physical strain such as lifting heavy objects, overexertion, or sitting for long periods. The patient feels better when lying on the back or when pressure is applied.

How to use Ruta Graveolens?

Ruta 30C can be given 2–3 times daily in acute strain, reducing frequency as pain improves.

10. Hypericum Perforatum – For Back Pain due to Nerve Compression

Hypericum Perforatum is mostly indicated when back pain involves nerve injury, especially after trauma to spine, fall on coccyx, or compression of nerves. Pain may be sharp, shooting, or radiating along the nerves.

When to use Hypericum Perforatum?

It is used when there is history of a fall, spinal injury, coccygeal pain, slipped disc with nerve involvement, or sciatica with a tingling sensation.

How to use Hypericum Perforatum?

Hypericum 30 or 200 may be administered every 4–6 hours in acute neuralgic pain, and it soon starts to taper off once relief sets in.

Other Symptoms Associated with Back Pain

Back pain basically may involve upper, middle or lower back. The upper back includes the cervical (neck) region; mid-back includes the dorsal region; and the lower back includes the lumbar, sacral and coccyx region. A key symptom that may accompany the pain is stiffness of the back. In case of pain in the cervical back, the pain may radiate from the neck down the arms. This may be accompanied by numbness, and tingling sensation in the hands. The pain from the lower back may radiate down the lower limbs. This may also be accompanied by numbness, tingling and increased sensitivity in lower limbs. Other symptoms may include weakness in the back, lower limbs or upper limbs.

Causes behind Back Pain

Among the various causes of back pain, the main ones include the following:

1. Disc bulge – It refers to slipping of the intervertebral disc from its place.

2. Osteoarthritis – Osteoarthritis of the back leads to degenerative changes in the bones, disc, cartilage or joint of back.

3. Muscle strain – It refers to overstretching of muscle arising from overuse, fatigue or lifting heavy weights.

4. Trauma/Injury to the Back

5. Degenerative disc disease – Degenerative disc disease refers to damage, dryness or breakage of the intervertebral disc mainly because of age-related wear and tear or from injury.

6. Ankylosing spondylitis – It is an inflammatory autoimmune disorder affecting joints in spine mostly starting from sacroiliac joints

7. An infection in spine – Such as Pott’s Disease and Vetebral Osteomyelitis

8. Kidney stones

9. Besides the above, weight lifting, improper posture while sitting/lying, being overweight, lack of exercise all predispose to back pain.

Investigations to Diagnose Back pain

Back pain investigation includes –

1. X-ray – It may reveal arthritis and any break in the bone.

2. MRI and CT scan – It is required to diagnose changes in the disc, muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the back.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are elders more prone to back pain?

Back pain can affect a person of any age group. However, back pain from degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis is most common in the elderly as it arise from age-related degenerative changes.

2. I have a lower back pain that radiates down my legs. What could be the cause?

Lower back pain radiating down the lower limbs basically indicates sciatica which may arise from compression, pinching or irritation of the sciatica nerve in the back. The various causes of sciatica include spinal stenosis, disc bulge, disc degeneration, bone spurs, and spondylolisthesis.

3. How long does homeopathic treatment take?

The duration of treatment depends on the nature of the disease. Acute muscular back pain may improve within a few days, while disc-related or nerve compression cases may require weeks or months. Chronic degenerative conditions often need long-term constitutional treatment. Factors like age, lifestyle, pathology, and duration of illness influence recovery time.

4. Can exercise/physiotherapy cure back pain?

Physiotherapy does play an important role in managing the back pain. But to get it permanently cured, a proper evaluation and treatment is needed. Both physiotherapy and medicines must go hand in hand for effective results.

5. Does back pain indicate a serious condition?

In most cases, back pain does not indicate a serious condition and does not require urgent medical aid. However, bowel/bladder incontinence or progressive weakness in the legs along with back pain needs urgent attention as it may be an indication of the cauda equina syndrome, which is an emergency condition.

6. Can I take painkillers along with homeopathic medicines?

If the pain is intense, painkillers may be required. Homeopathy can be initiated alongside, and, as improvement sets in, dependence on painkillers can mostly be reduced under medical supervision.

7. What lifestyle changes help in recovery from back pain?

Correct posture during sitting and standing, avoiding prolonged screen time, sleeping on a firm mattress, regular stretching, Yoga, maintaining healthy body weight, and avoiding sudden jerks or heavy lifting all help in recovery. Homeopathic treatment works more effectively when supported by proper lifestyle measures.

8. Can homeopathy help in slipped disc or sciatica?

Homeopathic treatment can reduce inflammation, nerve irritation, pain severity, and recurrence in several cases of slipped disc or sciatica. It may delay or sometimes help avoid surgery when structural damage is not severe and treatment starts early.

9. Is exercise allowed during treatment?

Gentle stretching, physiotherapy, and posture-correcting exercises are helpful, but heavy exercise or sudden movements should be avoided during acute pain episodes. Gradual rehabilitation is always safer.

10. Can obesity contribute to back pain?

Yes, excess body weight puts additional strain on the spine, especially the lower back. It also accelerates degenerative changes and disc problems. Homeopathy can support weight regulation by improving metabolism and constitutional tendencies, but diet control and physical activity remains essential for long-term relief.

11. Can back pain return after treatment?

If posture, activity pattern, or lifestyle factors remain unchanged, back pain may recur. Constitutional homeopathic treatment aims to reduce this tendency and improve overall musculoskeletal strength, but long-term relief also depends on maintaining healthy habits.

12. Is surgery always required for disc problems?

No. Surgery is only required in severe cases with neurological deficit, loss of bladder control, or progressive weakness. Several cases of disc bulge or mild herniation can be managed conservatively with homeopathy, physiotherapy, posture correction, and lifestyle modification. Early treatment reduces the chances of surgery.

Top 10 Homeopathic Remedies For Atopic Dermatitis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 73 Comments

Homeopathic Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis Treatment

Atopic Dermatitis is a chronic skin disorder characterised by dry, itchy skin and skin inflammation. It is non-contagious, which means it does not spread from one person to another via skin-to-skin contact. It is also known as atopic eczema, yet another name for it is endogenous eczema. When infants suffer from atopic dermatitis, it is referred to as infantile eczema. Atopic dermatitis begins in childhood (before the age of 5 years and in most cases around 3 months to 6 months) and may continue till adulthood in a few cases. Atopic dermatitis shows a remitting and relapsing course (the condition is a chronic, long-lasting disease that does not follow a straight line; it is characterized by alternating and unpredictable phases of calm skin and sudden inflammation). Homeopathy offers a very effective treatment for such cases.

Homeopathic remedies for atopic dermatitis are made from natural substances. They help in reducing the intensity of the complaint — itching and healing of rashes, and eruptions as well. Homeopathic remedies help in eradicating dermatitis from the roots by strengthening the patient’s immunity to the optimal level so that there are no hypertensive flare-ups. Mainstream medicines rely on ointments/creams containing steroids to deal with cases of atopic dermatitis. Though they provide relief by way of suppression of the symptoms, they do not address the problem from its roots, so the issue is temporarily healed but it tends to recur again and again. On the other hand, homeopathic treatment for atopic dermatitis, though it does not show instant results, leads to remarkable results and addresses the complaint to aid permanent cure. The treatment time varies from months to a year, depending upon the severity, duration of dermatitis, plus a particular individual’s response to the remedy.

Individualized and Symptomatic Treatment

Every case of atopic dermatitis presents differently, hence the medicines in homeopathy are selected on a case-by-case basis. The prescription is based on the totality of symptoms, including the site and type of eruption, the worsening and relieving factors, time of itching, sensitivity towards heat and cold, etc.

Biphasic treatment

Homeopathic treatment for atopic dermatitis is provided in two phases. In the first phase, homeopathic medicines manage acute signs and symptoms. In the second phase, they eradicate the disease with the use of constitutional natural homeopathic remedies selected solely on the basis of individual symptoms.

Non-suppressive treatment

Homeopathy does not prescribe any ointments that only treat the problem superficially, but follows a non-suppressive way to treat atopic dermatitis. Deep down, the disease still lurks and remains untreated. Homeopathy uses oral medicines that work on the internal parts of the body to treat atopic dermatitis and offers permanent cure.

Gentle and Safe Medicines

Homeopathic medicines are prepared from naturally obtained substances that do not have any harmful chemicals in it. They work very gently in a harmless manner, hence are very safe to use with zero side effects.

Top 10 Homeopathic Remedies For Atopic Dermatitis

The top listed homeopathic medicines for treating cases of Atopic Dermatitis are Graphites Naturalis, Petroleum, Sulphur, Natrum Muriaticum, Rhus Toxicodendron, Arsenicum Album, Mezereum, Psorinum, Viola Tricolor and Mercurius Solubilis.

1. Graphites Naturalis– Top Grade Remedy For Atopic Dermatitis

Graphites is one of the best homeopathic medicines to manage atopic dermatitis. It is highly effective for treating dry, rough skin, which may develop cracks. Though it can be used for any affected skin part, it works more prominently on lesions in the bends of elbows or bends of knees, neck and behind the ear. Keeping aside dryness, it is equally effective for cases where skin vesicles (fluid-filled bumps) appear that ooze sticky, gluey discharge. Graphites also bring good results in eczema on the face, nose, and chin.

When to use Graphites Naturalis?

This medicine is administered to manage atopic dermatitis with rough, dry skin and also when fluid-filled eruptions oozing sticky discharge are present.

How to use Graphites Naturalis?

It gives the best results in 3X potency that can be used one to two times a day.

2. Petroleum – For Dry and Cracked Skin

Petroleum is an ideal medicine when the skin gets dry and cracked. Bleeding occurs from the cracks. With time, the lesions become thick and get covered with crusts. There is a marked burning sensation and itching. Atopic dermatitis with dry, cracked skin in winter is highly characteristic to use Petroleum.

When to use Petroleum?

This medicine is recommended when the skin is very dry with cracks in cases of atopic dermatitis. Dry, cracked skin in winter is also treated magnificently with this medicine.

How to use Petroleum?

This medicine can be administered once a day in 30C potency.

3. Sulphur – To Manage Intense Skin Itching

Sulphur is a top medicine most frequently used in treating atopic dermatitis. The main complaint for which it is used is intolerable skin itching. The skin is excessively dry with scales and intolerable itching. In the majority of the cases, the itching is at its peak at night or when the person’s body gets warm in bed. Scratching is followed by a burning sensation on the skin. Relapse of dermatitis in the spring season or in damp weather is also effectively dealt with by this medicine. Homeopathic remedy Sulphur must always be considered as the first line of treatment for atopic dermatitis that is being suppressed by the use of local medications like ointments or any other form of external medication.

When to use Sulphur?

This medicine works wonders to manage itching in the skin, especially when it gets worse at night, along with a burning sensation.

How to use Sulphur?

Sulphur is mostly recommended in 30C potency. The dosage varies on a case-by-case basis. In some cases, it is administered in 30C power once a day while in other cases it is prescribed in infrequent doses — like once or twice a week depending on the intensity of the complaint.

4. Natrum Muriaticum – For Eruptions In Bends Of Limbs And Scalp Margin

Natrum Mur is beneficial for treating rashes/eruptions appearing in the bends of limbs that include the crease of the elbow and the back of the knee. The eruptions may be dry or ooze fluid. Warmth and heat worsen the condition for using Natrum Mur. Additionally, the eruptions occur specifically at the margins of the scalp. The eruptions are dry with rawness of skin along the margin of the scalp. Crusting may also occur along the hairline. Taking salt worsens the condition. Those who need it may also suffer from nasal allergy with marked sneezing, a runny nose, along with dermatitis complaints.

When to use Natrum Muriaticum?

This medicine should be selected to manage rashes or eruptions that occur in the bends of the limbs, like behind the knees and on the elbow crease and at the margins of the scalp in cases of atopic dermatitis.

How to use Natrum Muriaticum?

6X is the most frequently prescribed potency of this medicine that can be utilised two to three times, depending on how severe the case is.

5. Rhus Toxicodendron– For Eruptions With Thick Crusts That Ooze Fluid

Rhus Tox is of great help for atopic dermatitis with eruptions covered with thick crusts that ooze fluid. The skin becomes red with excessive itching or fluid-filled vesicular bumps that appear on the skin. Marked burning sensation and intense itching is felt. Scratching aggravates itching. Scaling of skin may also appear.

When to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

Rhus Tox is a great medicine for treating atopic dermatitis, where thick, crusty eruptions oozing fluid form on the skin with marked itching.

How to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

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

6. Arsenicum Album – For Dry Scaly Eruptions with Burning

This medicine works wonders for dry, rough, scaly eruptions. In most cases, eczema is marked on the face. Intense itching and burning sensation is felt in the eruptions. In most cases who need this medicine, it gets worse at night. The affected skin can be oversensitive to touch.

When to use Arsenicum Album?

This medicine should be utilized to manage dry, rough eruptions covered with scales/flakes in atopic dermatitis cases.

How to use Arsenicum Album?

It is advised to take this medicine once a day in 30C potency.

7. Mezereum – For Eruptions with Sticky Fluid Discharges

Mezereum is very beneficial for treating atopic dermatitis with eruptions oozing fluid. The fluid is very sticky. It is also administered when thick scabs form on the skin with pus under it, indicating infection. At times, the blood may ooze out on touching crusty eruptions. The eruptions are accompanied by marked itching. It gets worse from bathing in warm water.

When to use Mezereum?

Mezereum is a wonderful medicine when it comes to treat atopic dermatitis presenting with eruptions with thick scabs oozing sticky fluid.

How to use Mezereum?

This medicine proves effective in 30C potency. Mezereum 30C can be taken once or twice a week, depending on the requirement.

8. Psorinum – For Chronic, Stubborn Atopic Dermatitis

Psorinum is mostly prescribed for chronic atopic dermatitis cases with dry, rough, unhealthy skin that relapses frequently. Eruptions may be dirty looking, itchy, and sometimes ooze foul discharge. The patient usually has poor resistance, reports recurrent allergies, and history of suppressed eruptions or repeated infections.

When to use Psorinum?

It can be used in chronic, stubborn eczema and for patients who have weak immunity and a positive family history of atopic dermatitis or skin concerns.

How to use Psorinum?

It is generally administered in higher potency such as 200C single dose, and then one may have to wait and observe for weeks.

9. Viola Tricolor -For Infantile Eczema with Thick Crust Formation

Viola tricolour is mainly administered in infantile eczema affecting the scalp, cheeks, and face with thick crusts and sticky discharge. The child scratches constantly and the condition may be associated with digestive disturbances or foul-smelling urine.

When to use Viola Tricolor?

It is used especially for infants with cradle-cap type dermatitis or when scalp involvement predominates.

How to use Viola Tricolor?

It can be used in lower potencies like 6C or 30C once a day. The dose should be minimal and the response should be monitored.

10. Mercurius Solubilis- For Moist, Oozing eczema with Offensive Discharge

Mercurius solubilis is suited in cases of moist, inflamed eczema with a tendency to infection. The eruptions ooze, become raw, and may be associated with glandular swelling and aggravation at night. Skin is sensitive and perspiration is profuse but gives no relief.

When to use Mercurius Solubilis?

It can be used when atopic dermatitis shows signs of secondary infection, rawness, or suppuration.

How to use Mercurius Solubilis?

It is usually prescribed in 30C potency once daily during the acute phase. Stop repetition once discharge and inflammation begin to subside.

Signs And Symptoms Of Atopic Dermatitis

Signs and Symptoms usually begin before 5 years of age

1. Dry, rough, red, itchy skin is the main sign of atopic dermatitis. The itching is mild to intense, and varies from case to case. It worsens at night due to the warmth of the bed.

2. Eruptions: In some cases, papular, vesicular, or pustular eruptions appear on the skin. Papular eruptions are raised eruptions on the skin, vesicular eruptions are fluid-filled eruptions and pustular contains pus in it. When these eruptions start to ooze out fluid or pus, it is termed as ‘Weeping Eczema.’

3. Thickening, Crusting And Scaling Of Skin

4. Deep cracks and fissures with bleeding, especially noted in the long run.

5. Skin infection from excessive scratching may be seen. Red bumps and at times pus formation indicates infection.

6. Body parts affected by atopic dermatitis:

Although atopic dermatitis can appear on any part of the body, it can be commonly seen on the bends of the elbows, behind the knees, face, and neck. Other sites of infection may be around the eyes and ankles. The scalp and face are the common sites of Infantile Eczema. Atopic Dermatitis in the bends of the elbow, knees, or behind the ears is known as Flexural Eczema.

Signs And Symptoms In Infants (Babies Less Than One Year of Age)

In infants, there is dry skin with redness, itching and scaling. This may disturb sleep. Rashes on cheeks, scalp, front of arms or legs may occur. In some cases, fluid may ooze from the rash.

Signs And Symptoms In Children

In children, a rash is frequently noted in the bend of the knees and elbows. The rash is very dry and scaly. The affected skin patches may be thick and light or dark colored. Rash on the neck and face is also present.

Signs And Symptoms In Adults

Dry scaly skin is seen commonly in adults. Hands and feet are commonly affected. Besides, the bend of the elbows/knees, face, and the area around the eyes and back of the neck may be affected.

Causes Of Atopic Dermatitis Or Atopic Eczema

1. No particular cause has been detected behind atopic dermatitis in medical science, but its appearance is attributed to dysfunction of immune system. Due to a misguided immune system, there is an increase in inflammatory cells, causing skin inflammation.

2. Genetic factors are alsobelieved to play a role in it. This is based on the evidence that the person with atopic dermatitis usually shows a family history of eczema or other atopic diseases like asthma, hay fever /nasal allergy or food allergies. The word ‘atopic’refers to the tendency to produce a hypersensitive reaction to an allergen in a person with a strong genetic predisposing element. A person who has a parent or a sibling suffering from atopic dermatitis is at a greater risk of developing atopic dermatitis. Additionally, those with atopic dermatitis are at risk to get infected with other atopic conditions like asthma, nasal allergy, food allergy, etc. Persons having atopic dermatitis show changes in the gene affecting the production of filaggrin. Filaggrin is a protein responsible for conserving skin moisture and keeping the skin barrier strong. If it is low, skin gets dry and the skin barrier is altered, due to which irritants and even virus bacteria can gain entry, causing skin infections.

3. The hygiene hypothesisis also one of the reasons for this disease (good hygiene is directly proportional to the presence of this disease). When children are exposed to microorganisms early in their childhood, it helps build up their immune system and protects them against allergic diseases. So children in a less hygienic environment are at less risk of developing atopic dermatitis. On the other hand, in children living in highly clean environments, the immune system does not get an opportunity to develop, putting them at high risk of allergies.

4. In some, an excess of staphylococcus aureus bacteria on the skin can lead to atopic dermatitis.

Trigger And Worsening Factors

Some of the triggers and worsening factors for atopic dermatitis include stress, weather changes (cold, dry weather), woolens, synthetic fabrics, dust mites, sweating, soaps, detergents, and hot-water bathing. In some people, certain food items, like eggs, cow milk, gluten, and fish, can worsen the condition.

Pathophysiology

1. This condition begins when the normal protective skin barrier is disturbed. Following this, the allergens find a chance to reach the deeper layers of skin. It activates a large number of immune cells and a chain of immune reaction by these activated cells results in skin inflammation. First, epidermal inflammatory dendritic and innate lymphoid cellsare activated that invite Th2CD4+ helper T cellsto the skin, that results in skin inflammation, causing lesions of atopic dermatitis. These Th2 helper T cells further lead to the release of more inflammatory markers like cytokines (IL-4, IL-13, etc.), which further activate plasma and B lymphocyte cells to release antigen-specific IgE, adding to the inflammation.

2. Another reason is changes in the filaggrin gene that affects production of filaggrin, a protein produced by keratinocyte skin cells. Filaggrin makes skin cells secrete moisturising factors that keep the skin moisturized and maintain a strong skin barrier. If the low skin barrier gets disrupted, the skin gets dry (xerosis). As a result, allergens, irritants and even viruses and bacteria can gain entry, causing skin infections.

3. In atopic dermatitis, there is a release of pruritogens (mast cells, keratinocytes, T cells and eosinophils release pruritogens) that stimulate itching. These cells activate nerve fibers in the skin that lead to itching and pain sensation. Scratching the affected area of the skin also contributes to the release of pruritogens, leading to an itch-scratch-itch cycle in which scratching increases the itching. The more the person scratches, the worse it gets.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What precautions should I take during treatment?

Avoid scratching, harsh soaps, and synthetic fabrics. Keep skin moisturized, drink enough water, and follow dietary advice given by your doctor. Regular follow-ups help make adjustments in treatment.

2. Can homeopathy treat atopic dermatitis permanently?

Homeopathy aims to treat the root cause by improving the body’s immune response and skin resistance. Many patients experience long-term relief and reduced recurrence when remedies are selected constitutionally, though results depend on chronicity, lifestyle, and individual susceptibility.

3. How does homeopathy work in eczema?

Homeopathy does not suppress eruptions. Instead, it stimulates the body’s healing response so that inflammation, itching, and hypersensitivity gradually reduce from within. Treatment focuses on the person as a whole, not just the skin.

4. How long does homeopathic treatment take?

Acute flare-ups may improve within days to weeks, but chronic atopic dermatitis may require several months for deep correction. Duration depends on age, immunity, duration of disease, and previous steroid use.

5. Can I stop steroid creams immediately after starting homeopathy?

Steroid creams should not be stopped abruptly by long-term users. When the homeopathic treatment is initiated to prevent rebound flare-ups, a gradual reduction under medical supervision is much safer.

6. Will the itching increase after starting treatment?

Sometimes mild initial aggravation can occur as the body responds to the remedy, but this is usually temporary and followed by improvement. Always inform your physician if symptoms worsen significantly.

7. Is diet important in atopic dermatitis?

Yes. Certain foods, like excessive dairy, junk food, artificial colors, and very spicy food items, may aggravate symptoms in some patients. A simple, balanced diet with good hydration helps in skin healing.

8. Can stress worsen eczema?

Yes. Emotional stress is a major trigger for many patients. Homeopathy addresses both mental and physical aspects, so remedies often help reduce stress sensitivity along with skin symptoms.

9. Is homeopathy safe for children with atopic dermatitis?

Yes. Homeopathic medicines are gentle and safe when prescribed correctly, making them suitable for infants and children with eczema.

10. Will the disease come back after treatment?

If treatment improves the constitutional tendency, relapses usually become less frequent and milder. Proper lifestyle, diet, and stress management help maintain results.

11. When should I consult a doctor urgently?

If there is severe infection, pus formation, fever, extensive swelling, or sudden worsening of eczema, consult for proper evaluation at once.

Top 11 Homeopathic Medicines For Treating Wounds and Injuries

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 13 Comments

An injury, whether superficial or deep, sets panic and calls for immediate intervention. Injury refers to a physical harm or damage to the body from an accident, a fall, a blow, or a weapon. For an injury, another common term is a wound. Wounds refer to injuries that cause a break in the skin or body tissues (like scratches, cuts, etc.). All wounds are injuries, but not all injuries are wounds. Administering homeopathic medicines on a timely basis not only helps relieve the pain, but it also cuts short the healing process, thus preventing further complications.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines are really effective in treating minor injuries. These medicines help relieve pain, reduce swelling and also shorten the healing time. Apart from this, it prevents complications. These medicines work wonders in treating minor injuries. A few doses of Arnica 30C taken soon after the injury really heal the wound well. Right from pulling someone out of a state of mental shock after injury, to providing relief from pain to healing of injured tissues, Arnica works on every aspect of healing. Homeopathic medicines for treating injuries are selected keeping in mind the nature of the injury. For managing moderate injuries, use homeopathic medicines along with allopathy. In case of serious injuries or an emergency, help from conventional medicines should be sought right away. It is to be noted that homeopathic medicines are not a substitute for allopathy where immediate first aid is required urgently.

Wound

Homeopathic Medicines For Managing Wounds And Injuries

The top 11 homeopathic medicines for managing wounds and injuries are Arnica Montana, Rhus Toxicodendron, Calendula Officinalis, Hypericum Perforatum, Symphytum Officinale, Ruta Graveolens, Cantharis Vesicatoria, Ledum Palustre, Natrum Sulphuricum, Bellis Perennis and Silicea Terra.

1. Arnica Montana– Top Medicine For Injuries With Closed Wounds

Arnica is a must-have in the first aid box to treat injuries. It is the best bet for injuries, specifically closed wounds in which the external skin shows no visible signs of harm. Any homeopath will instantly recommend this medicine for such injuries. Injuries caused by a fall, a blow or a bump against something, being hit by something, blunt instruments or equipment are best dealt with this medicine, keeping in mind that the external skin is intact and no external wound is visible. This medicine brings relief from pain, soreness and swelling in the affected part. Second, it heals the injured tissues. It is also a wonderful medicine for treating bruises (blackish, bluish or purplish discolouration on the skin after injury from damaged blood vessels below the skin). This medicine is also recommended to treat the after-effects of injuries suffered a long time back.

When to use Arnica Montana?

It is a precious gem in homeopathy for treating injury cases. It is an irreplaceable medicine when it comes to treating injuries resulting from a fall, a blow or a bump against something, being hit by something, or blunt instruments when external skin shows no perforation. Use it as first aid in such cases and it will prove its worth.

How to use Arnica Montana?

Take Arnica 30C three to four times a day after the injury occurs. Once pain lessens, soreness gets better and swelling reduces, you may decrease the dose to just twice a day.

2. Rhus Toxicodendron – For Repetitive Strains and Ligament Injuries

Rhus Toxicodendron is no less important than Arnica as a medicine. It is equally important and as effective as Arnica, but prescribed for different kinds of injuries. It is a perfect remedy in case of overuse injury (injury due to repetitive stress to a particular part), sprain and strain. Overuse injuries mostly occur in certain body parts due to one particular movements as in sporting activities. A sprain means overstretching or tearing of ligaments. Strain refers to overstretching or tearing of muscles or tendons. A person suffers from intense pain, stiffness or swelling.

When to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

It is a great medicine for cases of injury if there is pain, swelling or stiffness from overuse of a body part by excessive physical activity or from sprain or strain.

How to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

It can be used in different potencies ranging from 30C, 200C, to 1M and 10M. In 30C potency, one may take it three to four times a day. If using 200C potency, its use should be limited to once or twice a day. In higher potencies like 1M and 10M, use it in infrequent doses as per the severity of the problem. Do not use 1M or 10M potency without consulting a qualified homeopath.

3. Calendula Officinalis – For Open Wounds Where Skin Is Broken

It is a natural medicine prepared from leaves and flowers of the plant ‘pot marigold’. Calendula is the most widely used medicine for cases of open wounds where the skin is broken. Some examples include abrasions (wounds caused by rubbing of skin against a rough surface), cuts (tears in the skin caused by sharp objects like a knife) and lacerations (open wounds caused by blunt objects). It is a great healing agent with marked antiseptic properties. It aids in relief from the pain, besides promoting the healing of injured tissues. It reduces sharp, stinging pain in the wounds and redness. Additionally, it has a great potential in preventing pus formation. It heals wounds by first intention, which means quick healing, no pus formation and very minimal scarring. This medicine is also recommended before and after any surgical procedure for efficient healing, along with conventional medicines.

When to use Calendula Officinalis?

It is a specific medicine used as a first line of treatment in case of open wounds where the skin is broken. It works extremely well to reduce pain, swelling and promote healing of wounds.

How to use Calendula Officinalis?

Its use is recommended as a local application over the injured area. For this, Calendula Q (in mother tincture form) needs to be diluted in water and applied over the injured area soon after the injury. It should be administered twice or thrice a day. At the same time, pills of Calendula 30 C potency need to be ingested orally. Calendula 30 C can be administered three to four times a day for the first few days. As healing progresses, the dose should be reduced to twice a day.

4. Hypericum Perforatum – For Nerve, Spine and Whiplash Injury

When it comes to managing a nerve injury, no medicine is better than Hypericum. Being sourced from the plant St John’s Wort, it is a natural remedy. It proves highly effective in managing nerve pain that follows injury to nerves. Though it can be administered for injury to any body part, it is primarily used for nerve injury in the fingers, toes, palms, soles and other body parts that have many nerve-endings. For example, fingers might get pressed in the door, causing intense nerve pain for which Hypericum is the most suitable medicine. It is also well indicated for nerve pain that follows any dental procedure. It is the best medicine for a tailbone (coccyx) injury from a fall. Pain radiates up and down the limbs from the tailbone, along with the inability to walk. Further, its use is highly recommended for injuries to the spine. Here, it can be used along with conventional treatment for relieving pain and tenderness. Lastly, it is highly beneficial for cases of whiplash injuries — neck injury that occurs when the head moves backward and forward suddenly and forcefully, commonly suffered in rear-end car accidents.

When to use Hypericum Perforatum?

This medicine should be administered as a first aid remedy for any sort of nerve injury.

How to use Hypericum Perforatum?

Most preferably, it is used in 30C potency repeated three to four times a day, though some cases require administration of high potencies, like 200C and 1M. Higher potencies are not to be administered in very frequent doses. As a general rule, the higher the potency, the lower the frequency of dosage.

5. Symphytum Officinale– For Broken Bones (Fractures)

Prepared from the plant Comfrey, also called ‘knit bone’, Symphytum is a top-ranked medicine for managing fractures. Undoubtedly, it is the best medicine to heal fractures. It enhances the activity of fibroblast cells, which speeds up healing. Along with bone repair, it also provides relief from pain. Other than this, its use is administered for managing cases of black eye (bruise around the eye after bleeding from ruptured blood vessels in the skin area around the eye caused by a blow or punch). It appears as a blackish to bluish discolouration around the eye.

When to use Symphytum Officinale?

Anyone who is familiar with homeopathy knows that there can be no other medicine that matches Symphytum when it comes to healing of the bone. Its use should be considered in all cases of fracture. The medicine can be started after the setting of the broken bone in the cast.

How to use Symphytum Officinale?

It gives the best results in mother tincture (Q) form. In the beginning, start with Symphytum Q, 5 to 7 drops diluted in half a cup of water three times a day for about two weeks. Gradually decrease the dose to twice a day, followed by once a day.

6. Ruta Graveolens– To Treat Sprains And Strains

It is a herbal medicine prepared from a ‘garden rue’ plant. It has a marked action on ligaments, tendons and muscles. It can effectively handle cases where ligaments are overstretched or torn (sprains) and when muscles/tendons are overstretched or torn (strains). It offers relief from pain and reduces swelling in the affected areas.

When to use Ruta Graveolens?

This medicine can be used in cases of sprain and strain. It encourages healing of injured ligaments, tendons or muscles as well as for relief from pain.

How to use Ruta Graveolens?

Initially, take Ruta 30C three to four times daily, and reduce it to once or twice daily when the healing has begun. If the recovery is slow, one may switch to Ruta 200C once or twice a day.

7. Cantharis Vesicatoria– For Burns and Scalds

Cantharis is a leading medicine for the treatment of burns and scalds. This medicine provides relief from pain and reduces burning sensations in damaged areas. It reduces redness and inflammation and aids the healing of burns. If used immediately on the burns, it prevents blister (water-filled bumps) formation. Other than burns and scalds, it can treat sunburns as well.

When to use Cantharis Vesicatoria?

Each and every case of burns and scalds requires Cantharis in the first place without wasting time.

How to use Cantharis Vesicatoria?

While applying to burns, apply it externally by diluting its 1X or 2X potency in water twice a day. Simultaneously, start taking Cantharis 30C tablets twice a day.

8. Ledum Palustre – For Punctured Wounds

This medicine is obtained from the plant ‘wild rosemary’. It is a wonderful medicine to treat punctured wounds from sharp pointed objects such as needles, iron nails, pins, injections, etc. Besides, it is effective in treating wounds due to insect stings.

When to use Ledum Palustre?

It is the most commonly prescribed medicine for cases of punctured wounds and wounds from insect stings.

How to use Ledum Palustre?

One may be administered it in 30C potency twice or thrice daily.

9. Natrum Sulphuricum – For Managing Head Injury

It is one of the best medicines to treat head injuries. It can be used along with conventional medicines. It plays an effective role in managing headache, depression or epilepsy that may follow a head injury.

When to use Natrum Sulphuricum?

Natrum Sulph is a specific medicine used for treating cases of head injury. Since it could turn out to be a serious injury, it is best advised to use it along with conventional medicines. Its independent use can be thought of only if considerable time has elapsed after the head injury.

How to use Natrum Sulphuricum?

It can be used in various potencies like 30C, 200C and 1M. Use this medicine only as advised by a qualified homeopath.

10. Bellis Perennis – For Injuries after Surgery and Childbirth

Bellis Perennis is mainly indicated if there are injuries of the tissues that are deep inside. There is soreness and swelling due to the injuries. There are injuries from falls on the coccyx or pelvis (including childbirth trauma). Injuries from trauma due to cold, damp exposure when overheated and injuries after abdominal or pelvic surgeries are very well managed by using this medicine. It is also a well-indicated medicine when Arnica fails and in cases of old injuries that could not heal properly. It is highly effective for both the immediate and delayed effects of blows, falls and accidents.

When to use Bellis Perennis?

It can be used in cases of injuries after surgery or surgical procedures. It can be used when there is blunt trauma (caused by an object not sharp) affecting the deep structures. It is indicated when there is bruise-like soreness that is more internal than on the surface.

How to use Bellis Perennis?

It can be used in 30C potency for acute injury. It should be administered 2 to 3 times daily for one to three days or in 200C single dose for cases of severe trauma under the guidance of a qualified homeopath.

11. Silicea terra – For Non-Healing Suppurative Injuries

Silicea, also known as the “Surgeon’s Knife”, is one of the most useful medicines in cases of suppurative injuries. It is mainly indicated in injuries with deep, narrow wounds that become infected later and slowly develop into an abscess. It is used when there are injuries from sharp and blunt objects. It helps the body to push them out and promotes the expulsion of foreign bodies from tissues. It can be used in cases when old scars never heal properly. The skin becomes unhealthy and there is a tendency for even a little injury to suppurate.

When to Silicea Terra?

Its use can be thought of in cases of punctured wounds or injuries that lead to suppuration and also injuries with risk of infection or sepsis. It helps the body to throw out the foreign bodies that cause infection and pus formation.

How to use Silicea Terra?

It can be used in 30C, 2–3 times daily for acute injury. The higher potencies of 200C can be used once daily in deeper infections. It is advised to stop taking these medicines once the pus drains and improvement sets in.

Note: Use of the above medicines is recommended only for minor wounds and injuries. In case of serious and severe injuries, immediate help from a conventional mode of treatment is advised.

Types of injuries

Some of the common injuries include:

1. Bruises: It refers to blackish, bluish or purplish discolouration of the skin after injury due to damaged blood vessels under the skin. The affected area can be painful, tender and swollen. It may happen from reasons like hitting a body part against some object like a chair, door, bed, etc, sprains, and car accidents.

2. Sprain and strain: A sprain refers to overstretching of ligaments (band of tissue that connects bones together in a joint). The most common locations of sprains are the ankle and wrist. Strain refers to the overstretching of muscles or tendons (bands of tissue that attach a muscle to a bone). Strains are common in the back.

3. Overuse injuries (repetitive movement of one body part): It is an injury from repetitive physical activities of a certain kind over a period of time, rather than a single-time injury. It could affect the muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, joints, and nerves from repetitive stress.

4. Abrasions:It is a type of wound that involves breaking of skin that happens on rubbing of skin against a rough surface, for example, when one falls on a hard, rough surface. It is not a deep wound. Elbows, knees and ankles are some of the areas commonly affected.

5. Cuts and Lacerations: A cutis a wound with a direct tear in the skin caused by sharp objects like a knife, a broken glass piece, etc. Lacerations refer to torn or jagged open wounds with irregular margins caused by blunt trauma.

6. Puncture wounds: These are deep wounds when a sharp, pointed object penetrates the skin like a needle, pin, or iron nail.

7. Incised wounds: A straight, clean cut wound resulting from a sharp object like a knife, blade, etc. Incision wounds during surgery are referred to as surgical wounds.

8. Fractures (broken bones): A crack or break in the bone

9. Burns and scalds: It is a result of skin or tissue damage from heat. Burns take place due to dry heat (fire, hot iron) or chemicals, electricity, radiation, or sunlight. Scalds, on the other hand, are caused by moist heat like hot water, hot oil, steam, etc.

10. Animal Bites and Insect Stings

11 .Concussion(traumatic brain injury): It is a brain injury from trauma like a fall, blow on head that affects the functioning of the brain. It can cause headache, loss of concentration, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, confusion and memory loss.

Signs and Symptoms Of Injuries

The signs and symptoms differ according to the type of injury and its intensity. Among all types, head injury and spine injury are the most serious ones.

Some of the signs and symptoms include swelling, pain, reduced mobility of affected parts, bleeding, cuts, scraped skin, and skin turning reddish, bluish or blackish.

Some serious signs and symptoms include uncontrolled heavy bleeding, breathing problems, bluish lips or fingernails, chest pain, changes in consciousness levels, abnormal pupil size, pupils getting non-reactive to light, paralysis, vomiting of blood, etc.

First Aid Management in Cases of Wounds and Injuries

Soon after an injury or a wound, if proper first aid is provided, one can reduce the chances of infection, bleeding and complications. Below are the steps that should be considered immediately after an injury.

1. Clean the wound: Rinse the wound under running water for at least 5-7 minutes, remove any visible dirt using a clean gauze or cloth and gently apply a mild antiseptic. Avoid using turmeric or soap.

2. Control Bleeding-Apply direct pressure for 5-10 minutes and elevate the injured part. If the bleeding is in spurts, seek immediate help.

3. Bandaging– Cover the wound using clean gauze and seal it using a bandage or medical tape. This will prevent the wound from getting infected.

4. Resting– Avoid movement of the affected part and provide proper rest by raising the part above heart level. This will help in reducing swelling and pain.

5. Seek Immediate Help in cases of– Deep wounds, animal bites, heavy bleeding and suspected fracture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I consult a doctor for a wound?

If the wound is deep and it is caused by any animal bite or it shows any signs and symptoms of an infection, like redness, fever, swelling, and pus. Also, if it bleeds profusely or has poor immunity and diabetes.

2. What are the signs of infection in a wound?

The signs of infection include increasing pain, redness, warmth, swelling or fever.

3. Can antiseptics or spirits be used to wash a wound?

Strong antiseptics cause delayed healing and damage healthy tissue. Therefore, a gentle septic solution is advised to clean. Clean water and saline are the safest to begin with.

4. Should wounds be kept open or covered?

Keeping the wound open increases the risk of infections. They heal better when they are kept clean, moist and covered with a sterile dressing.

5. How often should dressing be changed?

A dressing should be changed once it becomes wet or dirty, or else it is advised to change it once daily. For specific wounds, a doctor’s advice is required.

6. Why do wounds take a long time to heal?

Delayed healing could be due to infection, diabetes, poor nutrition, repeated injury, poor blood supply or improper care of the wound. Take the doctor’s advice if the wound is taking a long time to heal.

7. Can turmeric, toothpaste or oil be applied to the wound?

Household substances should be avoided unless advised by a doctor, it may cause infection or delayed healing of the wounds.

9. Do all wounds require antibiotics?

Antibiotics are required only if infection sets in or the risk of infection is high. Unnecessary use of antibiotics can cause resistance.

10. How to prevent scars after wound healing?

The scars can be prevented by proper care of the wound, by avoiding infection, keeping the wound moist and protected from the sunlight.

11. Can homeopathy help with injuries to the bones?

Yes homeopathic medicine can support natural healing, reduce pain, control bleeding and prevent the risk of infection and it helps in proper tissue repair of the bone.

12. When should homeopathic medicines be prescribed after an injury?

Start it as early as possible after the injury. Early administration of homeopathic medicines reduces shock, swelling, bruises and pain.

13. Can homeopathic medicines be used along with conventional treatment?

Yes. Homeopathic medicine can be used as a supportive therapy alongside conventional wound care, dressing or surgery.

10 Best Homeopathic Medicines for Urticaria

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 250 Comments

Urticaria, also called hives or ‘nettle rash’, refers to raised, elevated, itchy bumps (wheals, also called welts) on the surface of the skin that result from an allergic reaction to certain allergens. Hives can be accompanied by burning sensations and stinging pain.

There is a wonderful scope to treat urticaria in homeopathy with natural homeopathic medicines. Homeopathy is helpful for treating hives that have surfaced recently (acute) as well as the ones that have been there for a longer duration (chronic). Homeopathic medicines initially help to clear the acute outbreak of wheals. These medicines help to heal the welts. Also, it provides relief from itching, burning, and stinging sensations. Subsequently, these medicines reduce the recurrence and severity of urticaria gradually.

How Homeopathy Treats Urticaria?

1 .Homoeopathy addresses the root cause: To overcome urticaria, homeopathic remedies act on the root cause of the problem. Urticaria is a result of a hyperactive immune system and overproduction of histamine in response to an allergen, leading to welts on the skin. There are also accompanying symptoms like itching, burning, and a stinging sensation. So, for complete treatment and cure, homeopathy optimizes the immune system and lowers the overproduction of histamine naturally.

2 Individualized Prescription:In homeopathy, there is no particular medicine that can treat all the cases of urticaria. Therefore, the most suitable medicine has to be administered from among the list of different medicines for urticaria as listed in homeopathic therapeutics. The medicines are administered as per the characteristic symptoms the individual shows, i.e., the specific type of urticaria, its trigger factors, and the factors that worsen & provide relief from its symptoms. Urticaria should be evaluated by only a qualified homeopath so that he prescribes the medicines depending on a case-by-case basis. Self-medication should be avoided.

3 .Natural medicines with no side effects: Homeopathic medicines are safe and natural. They have no unwanted adverse effects. The medicines are prepared from naturally obtained and highly diluted substances, which are gentle on the human body. With homeopathic treatment, the dependence on use of antihistamines and other conventional medicines is also reduced.

Homeopathy is recommended for mild to moderate cases of urticaria. In severe cases and cases of anaphylaxis, urgent treatment through conventional medicines should be sought, as it is a life-threatening condition and homeopathy has its own limitations.

Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines for Urticaria

The top 10 homeopathic medicines to treat urticaria are Apis Mellifica, Natrum Muriaticum, Urtica Urens, Rhus Toxicodendron, Dulcamara, Astacus, Sulphur, Chloralum, Elaterium Officinarum and Fagopyrum Esculentum.

1. Apis Mellifica – Top Grade Medicine For Urticaria

It is a leading medicine for the treatment of urticaria. The key symptom of using this medicine is red, inflamed wheals with marked burning and stinging sensations. Itching is intense during the night. The wheals may be painful and tender to the touch. They usually appear as a result of heat. The Hives, which trigger in warm weather, are also indicative of its use. Other than that, Urticaria from an insect bite is another characteristic to use this medicine.

When to use Apis Mellifica?

The characteristic feature of using this medicine is red welts on the skin accompanied by a burning and stinging sensation.

How to use Apis Mellifica?

This medicine can be administered in 30C potency twice or thrice daily as per the severity of the symptoms.

2. Natrum Muriaticum – For Urticaria From Exercise And Heat (Cholinergic Type)

It is a very effective medicine for the treatment of hives that are triggered by too much exercise and heat. Those who need it get wheals over the whole body accompanied by excessive itching. The wheals appear like large red blotches. Burning and smarting sensations also appear in them. In many cases stinging sensation is also felt in the rash.

When to use Natrum Muriaticum?

This medicine is administered in cases of hives that are triggered by heat and excessive exercise.

How to use Natrum Muriaticum?

It is advised to take Natrum Mur 6X three to four times daily as per the intensity of the symptoms.

3. Urtica Urens – For Hives that Appear in the Same Season Every Year

Use of Urtica Urens is administered when it surfaces in the same season every year. Wheals are red with itching and a burning sensation. The patient constantly scratches the skin to get relief. There is a stinging sensation felt on the welts. Swelling of the face may appear along with the above symptoms in some cases. Nettle rash from eating shellfish is also indicative of using this medicine.

When to use Urtica Urens?

Urtica Urens can be used if there is a tendency to have hives in the same season every year.

How to use Urtica Urens?

It is recommended in a 30 C potency two to three times a day.

4. Rhus Toxicodendron– For Water-Induced/Aquagenic Type Urticaria

Rhus Tox is helpful for those who suffer from water-induced hives. Here, the patient gets wheals due to contact of the skin with water. The wheals are accompanied by itching. After one scratches, a burning sensation follows. Stitching pain is also an accompanying factor.

When to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

Rhus Tox is a wonderful medicine to treat hives triggered by contact of the skin with water.

How to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

This medicine can be administered in 30C potency two to three times a day.

5. Dulcamara – For Hives from Cold Air Exposure (Cold-Induced Type)

Dulcamara is suitable for cases of urticaria that is cold-induced. Those who need it get hives due to exposure to the cold air. They get red wheals on the whole body. It is accompanied by excessive itching. Needle-like pricking sensation is also felt on the wheals.

When to use Dulcamara?

Dulcamara should be administered to treat urticaria triggered by exposure to cold air.

How to use Dulcamara?

Use Dulcamara in 30C potency once or twice a day for the best possible results.

6. Astacus – For Urticaria Accompanied By Liver Complaints

Astacus is administered if urticaria is accompanied by liver complaints. The wheals appear over the entire body. They result in itching and stinging pain. It is mainly indicated in long-standing (chronic) cases.

When to use Astacus?

This medicine is an ideal prescription for hives accompanied by some liver complaints.

How to use Astacus?

One may use Astacus 30C once a day.

7. Sulphur – To Manage Itching In Eruptions

Sulphur is prominently administered to manage itching in the wheals on the skin. Most of the time itching gets better by scratching. The wheals may appear over the entire body. This is accompanied by an intense burning sensation, besides itching. In addition to this, stitching like prickling sensation on the skin is also felt. Formication sensation, as if an insect is crawling on the skin, is another accompanying symptom.

When to use Sulphur?

Sulphur can be considered to manage itching in the welts in cases of hives.

How to use Sulphur?

It is advised to limit the use of Sulphur 30C to just once a day.

8. Chloralum – For Urticaria From Scratching Skin (Dermatographic Type)

Chloralum is mainly recommended for dermatographic type of urticaria. Those who need it get welts on the skin if the skin is scratched. The patient complains of severe irritation, itching, and a stinging feeling. This medicine also helps those cases of hives that appear at night and get better during the day. In such cases, wheals are large and red, and sometimes accompanied by swelling of the face and the eyelid. The wheals have itching that compels a person to scratch until it bleeds. Apart from this, this medicine is also indicated when a complaint appears due to alcohol intake.

When to use Chloralum?

Use this medicine for urticaria if the disease is a result of scratching of the skin.

How to use Chloralum?

Chloralum 30 C can be taken once or twice a day.

9. Elaterium Officinarum – For Sudden Oedematous Urticaria with Violent Burning

Elaterium is indicated for very severe urticaria associated with sudden oedematous swellings, especially when the skin eruptions are accompanied by marked swelling of the face, eyelids, or lips. The wheals are large, raised, and may be associated with burning and stinging sensations. This medicine is useful when urticaria appears suddenly and spreads rapidly. The eruptions are often large, puffy, and accompanied by marked burning and stinging. It is especially useful when hives appear after exposure to damp weather or suppressed discharges.

When to Use Elaterium officinarum?

It can be used when urticaria is acute, and there is rapid swelling of skin or mucous membranes, especially after cold, damp exposure or gastric disturbance.

How to use Elaterium officinarum?

It is commonly prescribed in 30C potency, 2–3 times daily in acute cases.

10. Fagopyrum Esculentum- For Sun-Aggravated Itching with Erythema

Fagopyrum is one of the best remedies administered when there is marked itching of the skin, especially after exposure to sunlight. Skin becomes intensely itchy, red, and excoriated from scratching. It is often associated with gastrointestinal disturbances. The skin becomes hypersensitive, and there may be marked redness. It is especially useful when one suffers from urticaria due to exposure to sunlight or certain food items.

When to use Fagopyrum Esculentum?

It is administered in urticaria triggered by sunlight or heat, and when itching is a prominent complaint and there is nervous irritability.

How to use Fagopyrum Esculentum?

It is usually administered in 30C potency, one to two times daily, depending on the intensity of the problem. In recurrent cases, weekly dosing may be prescribed but under supervision.

What Are Its Causes?

The reason behind hives is usually an allergic reaction due to an overactive immune system. This reaction may occur from the consumption of certain food items or touching something to which a person is allergic. Hives are a result of the release of histamine (a chemical produced by the immune system during an allergic reaction to get rid of an allergen) from mast cells and basophils under the skin’s surface. This results in dilatation of blood vessels under the skin and inflammation. Following this, these vessels become leaky and cause fluid to accumulate under the skin, causing wheal formation and swelling. People who have allergic tendencies are at risk of hives. Other than allergies, hives may also result from other non-allergic conditions like stress, tight clothes and infections. Many a time, in over half of the cases, the exact causes and trigger factors cannot be ascertained.

What Triggers Urticaria?

The main triggers include consumption of foods such as eggs, nuts, and shellfish. Also, certain medications like some antibiotics, NSAIDs, even exercises, scratching, alcohol, and insect bites may also trigger it. Other triggers include sun exposure, stress, extremes of heat or cold, some intestinal parasites, animal dander, pressure on skin, dust mites, water application, and certain plants, such as poison ivy. In some cases, viral infections (like common cold, mononucleosis, hepatitis), and bacterial infections (urinary tract-infection, strep throat) may trigger it. Sometimes it can arise in patients who have thyroid and Celiac’s disease (a gastric disorder in which an immune response in the small intestine is triggered from eating gluten that damages the small intestine).

What Are The Signs And Symptoms?

1. Wheals: It is the major sign of urticaria.It refers to raised, elevated, smooth-surfaced, itchy bumps on the skin with clearly defined edges. They are itchy. Also, burning and stinging sensations may be felt.

2. Location of wheals: They may appear on the surface of the skin on any of the body parts. They may be localized, confined to one body part, or many, or may be present on the entire body.

3. Color of wheals: It may be pink, red, pale or skin-colored. On being pressed, they may turn white (blanching).

4. Size of wheals: They can be small, like a pinpoint or may be several inches big. They may also join and form larger ones known as plaques.

5. Shape of wheals:They may be round, oval or ring-shaped.

6. Duration: They usually disappear within a few hours and will not remain present beyond one full day.

7. Angiodema:In some cases, angioedema arises. This means swelling appears under the skin, mainly around the eyes, lips, mouth, and sometimes around the genitals, hands, and feet.

8. Anaphylaxis:Very rarely, hives may appear from a severe allergic reaction, and lead to anaphylaxis in which intense swelling of lips, tongue, and throat arises along with troubled breathing, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and sometimes it may lead to fainting. Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening condition and thus it should be treated urgently.

What are the Various Types Of Urticaria?

There are two classifications of urticaria, based on the duration and based on the cause that induces it.

1. Based on Duration:

(a). Acute Urticaria – It lasts less than 6 weeks and its common causes include food allergies, drugs like NSAIDs and antibiotics.

(b). Chronic Urticaria – It may occur intermittently or even daily and it lasts more than 6 weeks.

2. Based on Cause (Inducible Types):

(a). Dermatographic – Urticaria arising after scratching the skin

(b). Cold Induced – Wheals triggered by exposure to cold air

(c). Heat-induced – Urticaria due to exposure to heat

(d). Cholinergic – Urticaria triggered by exercise, stress or hot bath

(e). Solar – Eruptions after exposure to sunlight

(f). Pressure Induced – Urticaria that is induced by pressure

(g). Aquagenic- Wheals triggered by water contact

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is urticaria contagious?

No, urticaria is not contagious. It does not spread from one person to another.

2. How long does urticaria last?

Acute urticaria lasts for a few days to weeks (less than 6 weeks). Chronic urticaria persists for more than 6 weeks and may continue for months or even years with recurrent episodes.

3. What are the common symptoms of urticaria?

The main symptoms include intense itching, red or skin-colored raised patches (wheals), burning sensation, and sometimes swelling of lips, eyelids, or face (angioedema).

4. Can stress cause urticaria?

Yes, emotional stress can trigger or worsen urticaria in some people. Managing stress can help reduce flare-ups.

5. What should I avoid if I have urticaria?

It is advisable to avoid known triggers such as spicy food, seafood, packaged food with preservatives, extreme temperatures, tight clothing, alcohol, and unnecessary medications without medical advice.

6. Is urticaria dangerous?

Most cases are mild and manageable. However, if there is difficulty in breathing, swelling of the throat, dizziness, or fainting, it may be a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.

7. Can urticaria be treated with homeopathy?

Homeopathy aims to treat urticaria by addressing the underlying cause and individual symptoms. Remedies are selected based on the patient’s constitution, triggers, and nature of eruptions.

8. Can urticaria come back again?

Yes, especially in chronic cases, urticaria can recur. Proper treatment, trigger avoidance, and lifestyle management can help reduce recurrence.

9. What lifestyle changes can help manage urticaria?

Drinking enough water, avoiding trigger foods, maintaining a stress-free routine, regular sleep, wearing loose cotton clothes, and keeping the skin cool can help manage symptoms.

10. What is the role of Vitamin D in managing urticaria?

Vitamin D helps regulate the immune system. Low levels of Vitamin D are commonly seen in patients with chronic urticaria and may increase the frequency or severity of hives. Removing the deficiency may help reduce symptoms in some cases. However, supplements should be taken only after proper medical advice.

Top 10 Homeopathic Remedies for Joint Pains

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1,476 Comments

Joint pains are a common complaint, ranging from mild to severe that can incapacitate a person from doing daily chores. The joint pain can be accompanied by other signs and symptoms such as swelling, redness, stiffness, heat, and reduced movement of the joints.

Homeopathy offers a great and side-effect-free treatment for such cases. Since there can be various causes for joint pains — rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, etc, homeopathy offers relief by treating the root cause. Homeopathic medicines help relieve the joint pains along with managing other signs and symptoms like stiffness, redness, swelling, and heat in the joints. These medicines aim to halt further inflammation of joints as well as prevent any further joint damage. Homeopathic medicines not only provide relief in joint pains but also cure the condition in the long run. In conventional treatment, painkillers, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs), and steroids are used depending on the case. These medicines may have side effects from long-term use and may make one dependent.

Homeopathy is effective for acute/chronic joint pain

Be it acute or chronic, homeopathy gives equally good results in both. It provides prompt relief from it and from the associated symptoms. In chronic cases, it reduces the frequency and the intensity of joint pain. With timely use, the deformities and other complications related to the joint pains and inflammation can also be prevented in most of the cases.

Symptomatic Homeopathic Prescription

Homeopathic remedies for joint pains are administered on symptomatic basis depending on each individual case. A thorough in-depth study of symptoms is done followed by proper evaluation to decide the prescription. Such individualized medication carries a huge scope to treat joint pains. In mild to moderate cases of joint pains, there are high chances of bringing about timely cure. However, in severe cases with deformities and other complications, relief in the joint pains can be brought about but the damage that has already been done to the joints cannot be reversed.

Homeopathic remedies are safe and natural

Homeopathy uses natural medicines mostly obtained from plants to treat joint pains, hence are very safe to use. These do not cause any adverse effects as they lack any type of chemicals or toxins in it. One can use these without any fear of side effects.

Homeopathy is suitable for persons of all age groups

Homeopathy suits all age groups like children, adults, and the elderly. The set of homeopathic medicines for joint pains is similar for all the age groups only the potency and the dose may differ from person to person.

Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines for Joint Pains

The top ten medicines for treating joint pains are Rhus Toxicodendron, Bryonia Alba, Arnica Montana, Actaea Spicata, Colchicum Autumnale, Pulsatilla Nigricans, Ledum Palustre, Causticum, Ruta Graveolens and Stellaria Media.

1. Rhus Toxicodendron – For Joint Pain That Gets Worse At Rest and Better On Movement

Rhus Tox is the first choice of prescription in cases of joint pains. It is prescribed when the joint pains are at its severest during rest and also on initial movement. However, they get better after continuous movement. Although there are a number of other medicines that treat this symptom, no other medicine does it better than Rhus Tox.

Those who need Rhus Tox, complain of heat, swelling and stiffness in joints along with pain. Rhus Tox is also highly suitable to treat joint pains which are a result of overstraining, sprain and injuries.

When to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

This medicine is the best choice when joint pains aggravate from rest and get better from movement.

How to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

Though it can be used in both low and high potencies, initially 30C potency is good to go. Rhus Tox 30C can be administered thrice to four times a day as per the severity of the symptoms. Keep away from using its higher potencies without consulting a qualified homeopath.

2. Bryonia Alba – For Joint Pain Worse By Movement and Better At Rest

Bryonia Alba is just as effective as Rhus Tox, but the symptoms a person shows are different. Bryonia Alba is mainly recommended when the pain increases by even the slightest movement and is relieved by complete rest. The joint pain may be stitching (local, sharp, sudden pain) or tearing (intense) in nature. Along with pain, joints are red and hot, swollen, and extremely sore to touch or pressure. Painful stiffness of limbs is an accompanying factor.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

It is administered for cases of painful, red, swollen joints. The joint pains aggravate from movement, and rest brings about relief.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

Though it can be used in low or high power, it is mostly used in 30C power. Bryonia 30C can be administered twice or thrice daily.

3. Arnica Montana – For Post-Traumatic Joint pain.

Sourced from the plant ‘leopard’s bane’, it is the most prescribed medicine to manage joint pain from injury or over-strained joints.There is a bruised, sore sensation, as if one has been beaten, making every surface seem hard. There is fear of touching the affected joints because of intense soreness. A lot of heaviness is felt in all the limbs. Accompanying symptoms are rheumatism from excessive muscular strain or exposure to cold.

When to use Arnica Montana

Arnica is very well indicated medicine for the cases of joint pain with sore bruised pains following an injury.

How to use Arnica Montana?

It can be used in 30C potency three or four times a day to begin with. One can gradually decrease the dose once relief sets in.

4. Actaea Spicata – For Pain In Small Joints, Especially Wrist

This natural remedy sourced from the root of the plant ‘baneberry’ is highly effective for pain in the small joints, especially the wrist. The wrist becomes swollen and red with pain. Even slight exertion may cause swelling and aggravation of pain. It is also beneficial for relieving pain in other small joints as well, including fingers, ankles, and toes.

When to use Actaea Spicata?

It is the best-administered medicine for pain in the small joints including the wrist, toes, fingers, and ankles. Pains get worse from touch and due to motion.

How to use Actaea Spicata?

One may use this medicine in 30C potency, once or twice daily for best possible results.

5. Colchicum Autumnale – For severe joint pain in Gouty Arthritis.

It is one of the best remedies for treating joint pain due to gout (joint inflammation from high uric acid levels). It can be administered to treat pain in any joint, but mostly it helps if there is pain in the big toe due to high uric acid. Great toe is inflamed, red, swollen and extremely sensitive. Even a small touch makes it sore; the pain aggravates in the evenings. Tearing, stitching or sharp pain in the limbs is felt. Accompanying symptoms are tingling and numbness in the hands and the finger.

When to use Colchicum Autumnale?

This medicine may be prescribed for joint pains that happen due to increased uric acid levels (gout).

How to use Colchicum Autumnale?

It may be used in 30 C potency once or twice a day.

6. Pulsatilla Nigricans – For Shifting Type Of Joint Pains

Pulsatilla is a highly suitable medicine for managing shifting types of joint pains. For those who need this medicine, the pain keeps moving from one joint to another rapidly. It feels as if one has suffered beating on the joints and they get red and swollen. There is worsening of pain from movement and also at night time.

When to use Pulsatilla Nigricans?

Its use is highly suggested to manage shifting type of joint pains when pain keeps shifting from one joint to another quickly.

How to use Pulsatilla Nigricans?

This medicine can be used in 30C potency once a day. Avoid using its high potencies without the doctor’s recommendation.

7. Ledum Palustre- For Ascending Gouty Arthritis of the joints.

Ledum Palustre is especially administered in joint pains that has its onset in the feet and ascend upward, commonly affecting the ankles, knees, and the wrists. The joints are often cold to touch yet they feel better from cold applications, which is a key guiding feature. Pain usually worsens at night or due to warmth of bed, and it gets better in cool air. The affected joints may appear swollen but are pale rather than red. The pain is typically stinging, tearing, or rheumatic in nature. Ledum Pal is frequently useful in gouty arthritis, gouty nodosities, especially when there is a history of uric acid diathesis, and in joint complaints following puncture wounds or insect bites.

When to use Ledum Palustre?

It works well in cases of joint pains that are caused by Gout. Joint pains may ascend upwards.

How to use Ledum Palustre?

This medicine can be administered in 30C potency once a day. Avoid using its high potencies without the doctor’s recommendation.

8. Causticum– For Joint Pains in Chronic Rheumatic Arthritis

Causticum works wonders in joint pains associated with progressive stiffness, weakness and deformity, particularly in chronic rheumatic and arthritic conditions. The pain is often worse in dry, cold weather and from long-continued motion, but improves with warmth and damp weather. Joints may feel stiff when one begins to move, with a sense of tendon shortening or contracted tendons, especially around the knees, wrists, and fingers. Causticum is strongly indicated when joint pain is accompanied by numbness, muscle weakness, trembling, or paralysis-like sensations, and when complaints aggravate due to emotional stress or grief.

When to use Causticum?

Causticum works very well in cases of joint pains accompanied by numbness, tendon shortening, weakness, and trembling.

How to use Causticum?

It may be used in 30 C potency once or twice a day.

9. Ruta Graveolens – For Joint Pain from Chronic Overstrain

Ruta Graveolens is especially indicated for joint pain with marked stiffness, soreness, and a bruised sensation, particularly involving the wrists, hands, hips, knees, ankles, and feet. The joints feel fragile, strained, and painful, often with the involvement of a tendon. The pain in the joints mostly aggravate from rest or when one rises, and they get better with continued gentle motion, making Ruta useful in cases of chronic overstrain and rheumatic joint conditions.

When to use Ruta Graveolens?

Ruta Graveolens is best indicated in joint pains with marked stiffness, soreness, and a feeling of bruise-like sensation, especially where tendons and ligaments are involved. Symptoms aggravate after rest or overuse and improve with gentle, and continued motion.

How to use Ruta Graveolens?

It can be initiated with 30C potency, once a day. Higher potencies such as 200C, 1M can be used but only after consulting a qualified homoeopath.

10. Stellaria Media – For Bruised, Wandering Rheumatic Joint Pains

Stellaria Media is administered in cases of rheumatoid and rheumatic joint pains affecting multiple joints, with a characteristic bruise-like feeling, which is also sore, and aching. The pains are often wandering and involve the shoulders, arms, lower back, gluteal region, thighs, and calves, and may be associated with synovitis and stiffness. Symptoms typically worsen due to cold, damp weather and also due to rest. They are relieved by gentle motion and warmth, making it useful in chronic, diffuse joint complaints.

When to use Stellaria Media?

Stellaria Media works well in rheumatoid and rheumatic joint pains with a bruise-like, sore and aching sensation, often involving multiple joints.

How to use Stellaria Media?

It can be initiated in 30C potency, once a day.

Note: You may take any of these medicines for 3 to 4 weeks. To use it beyond that or to use it in potencies higher than above-recommended potencies, consult a qualified homeopath.

What Causes Joint Pains?

Joint pains can occur due to various reasons as mentioned below:

1. Rheumatoid arthritis

It is an auto-immune disorder that causes pain, stiffness, swelling and decreased movement of the joint. An auto-immune disorder means damage to the body’s own healthy tissues by the immune cells out of a misdirected response. In rheumatoid arthritis, the lining of the joints is affected which can slowly lead to bone erosion and deformity. This disease tends to involve small joints (fingers in the majority of the cases) on both sides initially. Large joints may get affected with time, and in later stages joint deformity may set in. It manly affects joints but later on can also affect other organs like eyes, lungs, heart, and skin. The most important symptom is stiffness in the joints on waking up in the morning lasting for an hour after which it gradually eases. Other symptoms are pain, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the joints.

2. Osteoarthritis

It causes degeneration of the joints that occurs from wear and tear of the protective cartilage present at the end of the bones. Cartilage covers the surface of the bones where they meet to form a joint. The cartilage in the joints allows smooth gliding movement of the bones – as joint straightens or bends. Osteoarthritis mainly affects the knees, hips, hands, and the spine. The symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain in the joints, stiffness, swelling and tenderness at the joints. There may be a feeling of grating sensation when the affected joint moves. The movement of the affected joint may reduce. Bone spurs (extra tiny outgrowth of bones at the end of the bones) may form around affected joints.

3. Gout

It refers to the inflammation of the joints that arises due to the accumulation of urate crystals in the affected area when the uric acid levels in the blood rise. It results in swelling, pain, redness and tenderness of the joints, especially the big toe.

4. Injury

It is also a common cause of the joint pain. It can result from overuse of the affected joint, over strained joint, sprains (caused by overstretching or tearing of ligaments that connect two bones in a joint), or fracture.

5. Ankylosing Spondylitis

It is a type of arthritis (joint inflammation) affecting the joints of the spine. The most common joint involved in it is the sacroiliac joint (joint between the base of spine and pelvis). The main symptoms are pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips. The pain aggravates in the early morning and after periods of inactivity.

6. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

It is a type of arthritis that affects the children under the age of 16 years. It causes joint pain, stiffness and swelling, and in some cases fever and rash on the trunk (any part of the body excluding limbs, neck, face, and head)

7. Bursitis

It refers to inflammation of the bursa (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, muscles, and tendons near joints). It mostly affects the shoulders, hips, elbows and knees. It causes pain in the joint (it worsens from pressure or movement), stiffness of joint and swelling, and redness over the joint is also present.

8. Tendinitis

It means inflammation of tendons (bands that connect bones and muscles). It mainly happens from overuse and mostly affects heels, elbows and shoulders.

9. Avascular necrosis (AVN)

It refers to the dead bone tissue resulting from a lack of blood supply. Though anyone can be affected by it, excessive use of steroids in high doses over a long time and excessive alcohol intake puts a person at risk. Though, it can affect any bone, the head of the femur (a bone in the thigh) is the most commonly involved bone. In the early stage of AVN (Avascular necrosis), no symptoms may appear. As AVN progresses to higher stages, pain in the affected joint begins usually on putting weight on it, later the pain may be felt even on lying down.

What Are The Symptoms?

Along with pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joint is present. A grating sensation (harsh sound) on the movement of the joint may be felt at times. The affected joint may be sore from the inside and tender to touch from the outside which restricts the movement of the joint. This can lead to chronic joint deformities. If any kind of joint pain becomes severe, day-to-day activities get hindered. Due to joint pains, like rheumatoid arthritis, other organs like eyes, kidneys, and heart can also get affected and lead to complications.

Who is at risk?

Though joint pains can affect anyone, some factors increase the risk:

1. A person with a family history of joint pains is at high risk

2. Injury to any joint

3. Overuse of joints

4. Obesity

How to diagnose the cause of joint pains?

To diagnose the cause behind the joint pains a detailed medical history, and physical examination followed by investigations are a must. The investigations suggested include blood tests and imaging techniques varying from case to case as per the suspected cause. Among these initially, some blood tests are recommended. These include ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein) both of which check for the intensity of inflammation, some tests to rule autoimmune disorders that might cause joint pain like rheumatoid factor, Anti CCp (anti-citrullinated protein antibody), ANA (antinuclear antibodies) test and also uric acid test (to check for gout). Imaging techniques like X-ray of joint, MRI, and CT scan might be recommended afterward as per the case needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.Is joint pain always related to arthritis?

No. Joint pain can also be due to muscle strain, ligament or tendon problems, trauma, or nutritional deficiencies.

2.How is joint pain diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on clinical examination, medical history, and when needed, blood tests or imaging such as X-rays.

3.Can homoeopathy help in joint pain?

Yes. Homoeopathy can help by addressing the individual symptoms, pattern of pain, and associated stiffness or swelling that aims to reduce discomfort and improve joint function.

4.What lifestyle changes can I make to reduce the joint pain?

Weight management, regular exercise, proper posture, balanced diet, and adequate rest can help reduce joint stress and pain.

5.Can joint pain occur without injury?

Yes. Joint pain can develop without trauma, due to inflammation, autoimmune conditions, or metabolic issues.

6.Can joint pain cause fatigue?

Yes. Chronic joint pain, especially inflammatory conditions, may be associated with general tiredness and weakness.

7. Can joint pain lead to deformity?

If left untreated, chronic inflammatory joint diseases may lead to joint deformities and restricted mobility.

8. Can joint pain occur without visible swelling?

Yes. Joint pain may present itself with stiffness, aching, or discomfort even without obvious swelling.

9. Can joint pain recur after improvement?

Yes. Joint pain may be recurrent, especially in chronic or inflammatory joint disorders.

10. What are alarming signs in cases of joint pain that need urgent medical attention?

Joint pain needs prompt evaluation if there is sudden severe pain, marked swelling, redness, warmth, or fever, as this may indicate infection or acute inflammation.

Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines for Fever

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 147 Comments

Feeling feverish is a common seasonal experience; we usually pop a pill and hope that it will improve our condition and we would be able to go about our business. But here’s the catch: Over-the-counter pills might bring down the temperature, but the infection will still remain in the body. Here’s where the role of homeopathic medicines for fever comes into play, as these are made of naturally obtained substances and offer a different course of medical approach. These natural medicines target the infection from its root cause.

Fever, medically termed as pyrexia, is a temporary rise in body temperature above the normal range. The normal body temperature ranges from 97 F to 98.7 degree Fahrenheit. Fever in itself is not a disease but is only an external sign that denotes an internal infection or inflammation in the body. Everybody’s normal body temperature varies between 97 and 99 degrees F. Fever is defined as a temperature of 100.4 degrees F or above.

For kids, a temperature higher than 100. 4 degrees F (measured rectally); 99.5 degrees F (measured orally); or 99 degrees F (measured under the arm) is considered fever.

How Homoeopathy Treats Fever?

1. Individualized Treatment:Homeopathy treats fever through a holistic and individualized approach rather than following one-size-fits-all criterion. Fevers are of different types and their causes can be various; one medicine cannot be prescribed to all patients suffering from fever. Homeopathic medicine is prescribed after a detailed case evaluation of the patient by an expert homeopathic physician and factors such as the cause behind the fever and the chronicity of the complaint are considered to determine the dose, potency and repetition of the chosen medicine.

2. Safe and Gentle Medicines:Homeopathic medicines are prepared from naturally obtained and highly diluted substances, hence they are free from any adverse effects. They are non-toxic and non-habit forming. Once relief sets in, dose of the medicines can be easily reduced after discussing with a qualified homoeopath.

3. Boosts Body’s Natural Healing Mechanism:Homeopathy not only helps in lowering the temperature, but it also helps in stimulating the body’s self-healing mechanism. Since fever is a sign that the body’s immune system is fighting against the infection, homeopathy further supports it and helps in reducing the frequency of fevers and ensuring long-term relief.

Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines for Fever

The top ten remedies that are effective in treating different types of fevers are Aconitum Napellus, Bryonia Alba, Eupatorium Perfoliatum, Gelsemium Sempervirens, Rhus Toxicodendron, Belladonna, Arsenicum Album, Ferrum Phosphoricum, Baptisia Tinctoria and China Officinalis. When chosen carefully based on the indications, they can be perfect remedies in bringing about relief.

1. Aconitum Napellus – For Fever with Restlessness and Anxiety

Aconitum Napellus is the perfect medicine for the first stage of inflammatory fever. It is a natural remedy when the fever is accompanied by extreme restlessness and anxiety. The patient feels an increased thirst for cold water and the body aches are unbearable. The use of medicine Aconite should always be considered when the fever has risen after sudden exposure to cold winds. There is extreme chill in the body, and the patient desires to be always covered up.

When to use Aconitum Napellus?

Aconite should be administered in cases where fever is always accompanied by excessive thirst and intense restlessness. It is also accompanied by chills and one feels better wrapped up in clothes.

How to use Aconitum Napellus?

A general recommendation is to start with 30C potency, which can be repeated 3-4 times daily. A higher potency 200C can be administered twice in a day if the symptoms still persist. It is advisable to consult a qualified homeopath before taking it in 1M or higher potency.

2. Bryonia Alba – For Fever with Body Aches

Bryonia Alba is a natural remedy for patients in whom body aches are predominant along with fever and chills. The body is cold to the touch, along with chills. Such a person wants to lie down still to get relief. Slight motion aggravates his or her condition. Excessive thirst is felt. Symptoms get worse due to warmth, body movement and touch. But one feels better by lying on the painful side.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

Bryonia Alba is indicated for cases where chills and body pain accompany fever along with desire to lie down and increased thirst.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

This medicine can be taken in 30C potency 2-3 times a day for good results. 200C potency can be taken once a day and repeated infrequently.

3. Eupatorium Perfoliatum – For Fever with Bone Pains

Eupatorium Perfoliatum is one of the best fever remedies in homeopathy. It is of great help to treat fever when the patient experiences intense pain in the bone. This remedy provides quick relief from pain. The main indication for ingesting Eupatorium Perfoliatum in case of fever is that the fever is periodic (repeated at certain fixed intervals). The chill is accompanied by intense aching and pain in the bones. The patient shivers and shakes with agonizing pain in the head and the eyes. Pain has a bruise-like sensation and the patient feels as if he has been beaten. Though it can be administered for any kind of fever, it is a leading remedy for dengue fever and malaria.

How to use Eupatorium Perfoliatum?

Eupatorium Perfoliatum is the ideal medicine when extreme pains accompany fever. This remedy is capable of managing fever in any age group.

When to use Eupatorium Perfoliatum?

Eupatorium Perfoliatum can be administered in 30C potency initially. It can be repeated as frequently as three to four times a day, depending on the intensity of the symptoms.

4. Gelsemium Sempervirens – For Fever With Dizziness and Drowsiness

Gelsemium Sempervirens has been considered an excellent remedy for the treatment of Influenza for long. It is a very beneficial medicine in cases of fever where the patients suffer from weakness, dizziness and even the tendency to faint. There is an absence of thirst in most cases. Though it is a prominent medicine for influenza, in some cases, it can be used in the early stage of typhoid fever when there is a lot of exhaustion, dizziness, and the patient prefers to be covered.

When to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

Gelsemium shows all the characteristics of viral influenza. There is body ache, myalgia (muscular pain), sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, dullness, weakness and headache. When these symptoms are prominent, Gelsemium should be administered.

How to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

It works well in all potencies, but it is best to start with 30C. It can be repeated up to 3-4 times in a day. It can be administered twice in 200C potency. It is advisable to consult a homeopath before administration in 1M potency.

5. Rhus Toxicodendron – For Fever After Getting Wet in Rain

Rhus Toxicodendron is one of the top natural remedies for those who have a fever with extreme body aches, leading to restlessness. Such patients have to keep moving about to get relief. Rhus Tox is also a natural medicine for fever that results from getting wet in the rain. During a fever, there is shivering all over the body, the tongue is dry and there is stretching pain in the body, along with mental and physical weakness.

When to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

Rhus tox is often indicated in fever with pain and great restlessness in the body. It is also a leading medicine for fever resulting from getting wet in the rain.

How to use Rhus Toxicodendron?

It is recommended to use this medicine in 30C potency initially and it can be frequently repeated 3-4 times a day for good results.

6. Belladonna – For fever with Sore Throat

Belladonna is one of the first remedies to be thought of in those cases where there is fever with pain in the throat, which is also sore, red and inflamed. During a fever, the head becomes hot, but the feet are cold. Internally, it feels cold, but externally, there is very strong burning heat.

When to use Belladonna?

Belladonna stands for cases of high fever with no thirst, and burning heat in the head, but a cold feeling in the feet.

How to use Belladonna?

30C and 200C are the most common potencies used for the treatment. 30C requires frequent repetition, and they should be given 2-3 times a day till the expected result is seen. 200C is a high potency; it is advised not to repeat frequently.

7. Arsenicum Album – For Malarial or Typhoid Fever

Arsenic album can be administered in cases of typhoid and malaria fever. Periodicity is marked with body burning pains, weakness, restlessness, exhaustion and aggravation of pain in the night. The complaint worsens with even the slightest movement and feels better after application of heat. In the heat stage, there is an inclination to uncover, as there is dry heat with thirst. At the end of the fever stage, there is cold and clammy sweat. Sometimes, along with fever, gastric symptoms also exist, such as colic, nausea, loose stool, and heaviness in the stomach.

When to use Arsenic Album?

Arsenic Album is one of the best remedies for fever due to malaria or typhoid. One feels a lot of chills, debilitated, and also restlessness.

How to use Arsenicum Album?

It can be administered in 30C potency, which can be repeated twice daily for the best possible results.

8. Ferrum Phosphoricum- For Early Stages of Fever

Ferrum Phosphoricum is considered one of the most important remedies for fever in its very early stage. It is indicated when a fever has just set off and the symptoms are mild and not clearly indicative. The patient usually has a flushed face, slight chills, mild body ache, throbbing headache and a soft, full, rapid pulse. There is a gradual onset of fever without much restlessness or weakness.

When to use Ferrum Phosphoricum?

It is mainly useful in simple inflammatory or viral fevers, sore throat, earache, cold or any fever following exposure to cold. This remedy is best suited when there is low-grade fever and the symptoms are not felt at any one point in the body (no localization of symptoms). Ferrum Phos should be prescribed at the onset of the fever before it advances to a definitive stage.

How to use Ferrum Phosphoricum?

It is commonly prescribed in biochemic potencies such as 6X, 12X, 6C or 30C. In acute cases, 6X can be administered as 4 tablets 3 to 4 times daily, while in 30C potency, it can be repeated twice to thrice daily. It acts as a first aid remedy for almost all initial febrile conditions.

9. Baptisia Tinctoria- For Toxic Fever with Delirium and Weakness

Baptisia is a very important remedy for intense, toxic and typhoid-type fevers. It is given when there is a high fever with extreme prostration and marked mental confusion. The patient feels as if the body is scattered into pieces and is too weak to gather them together. There is dullness, drowsiness, delirium, offensive breath and offensive discharges. The face appears dark red, the tongue gets dry, and there are intense body aches with a bruise-like sensation and sore feeling all over the body.

When to use Baptisia Tinctoria?

Baptisia is particularly useful in septic conditions, influenza with high fever, and typhoid or typhoid-like states. It is prescribed when the fever is advanced, toxic and the patient is mentally dull and physically exhausted.

How to use Baptisia Tinctoria?

It is generally used in potencies like 30C or 200C. In acute conditions, 30C can be repeated every 4 to 6 hours, while 200C is administered once or twice daily depending on the intensity of symptoms.

10. Cinchona Officinalis- For Fever with Extreme Exhaustion

Cinchona Officinalis is mainly administered for fever associated with marked weakness and exhaustion. Fevers that occur after loss of vital fluids, such as diarrhea, vomiting, bleeding, excessive sweating or prolonged illness, are very well treated by using this medicine. The patient feels extremely weak, sensitive to touch and drafts, and often complains of dizziness, ringing in the ears and flatulence. The fever is usually intermittent or periodic in nature with stages of chill, heat and perspiration.

When to use Cinchona Officinalis?

It is especially useful when the patient becomes exhausted after repeated attacks of fever or during the recovery phase. China is the first choice when there is profuse sweating with a lot of weakness. It is commonly used in malarial-type fevers and in conditions where the body has been drained of its strength.

How to use Cinchona Officinalis?

The usual potencies recommended are 30C and 200C. In acute weakness with fever, 30C can be administered twice or thrice daily, while 200C is used in more chronic or deep-seated exhaustion states, generally in single doses.

Types of Fever

Five main types of fever are:

1. Intermittent fever: The temperature is high but falls to normal (37.2 °C or below) each day. This type of fever is observed in malaria.

2. Remittent fever: In this type of fever, body temperature fluctuates; though it falls, it never falls all the way back to normal. This type of fever is associated with infectious diseases such as infective endocarditis, rickettsiae infections, and brucellosis, among others.

3. Continuous fever: It is also called sustained fever. The fever is prolonged with little or no change in temperature over the course of the day. Temperature remains above normal throughout the course of 24 hours and does not fluctuate more than 1 degree Celsius in 24 hours. This type of fever occurs in lobar pneumonia, typhoid (step – ladder pattern, a stepwise increase in temperature with a high plateau) and urinary tract infection.

4. Hectic Fever: In this type of fever, there are wide swings in temperature. Intermittent or remittent fever is considered hectic with a temperature difference of at least 1.4 degrees Celsius between the highest and the lowest temperature. This fever pattern is indicative of an abscess or pyogenic infection such as pyelonephritis.

5. Relapsing Fever: This is a type of intermittent fever that hits you again after days or weeks of normal temperatures. This fever is common after animal bites and diseases like malaria.

There is no specific medicine in homeopathy to bring down the temperature; these medicines work by targeting the infection instead. This is because the temperature is the only index through which the progress of the infection inside the body is reflected. The rise in body temperature is directly proportional to the extent of infection. An increase in temperature indicates a further spread of infection, while a decrease in temperature shows that the infection is reducing. If the body temperature is abruptly brought down without halting the infection process, there is no way to find out what is going on inside the body and to what degree the infection is still present. So, the end result is that the fever no doubt is gone, but its root cause — the infection – still remains. Natural medicines act by putting a check on the infection, preventing its progress and the temperature is thus automatically brought down gradually as the infection declines. The remedies also make sure that no weakness or other residual effects of the fever remain in the body. Homeopathy has a huge number of natural medicines to deal with cases of fever.

Causes of Fever

Fever or a higher-than-normal body temperature could result from:

1. Infections: Viral or bacterial infections are the most common causes of fever. This includes flu, colds, gastroenteritis or infection in the ears, throat, skin, or bladder.

2. Environmental factors: Heat strokes due to high ambient temperature or prolonged strenuous exercise and extreme sunburn can all raise the body temperature.

3. Inflammatory diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, which inflames the lining of your joints, is one example of an inflammatory condition (synovium); lupus and inflammatory bowel diseases can also cause fever.

4. Hormonal disorders: This includes hyperthyroidism, which can increase body temperature.

5. Drugs: The side effects of some medicines, including those used to treat high blood pressure, seizures, and antibiotics, can cause fever.

6. Cancer: A malignant (cancerous) growth can cause fever.

7. Various types of vaccinations

8. Alcohol withdrawal

9. Teething in babies

Symptoms of Fever

Higher temperature than 100.4 F (38 C) in adults and children.

When someone has a fever, depending on what causes the fever, they may also have the following symptoms:

A. Shivering and feeling cold when nobody else is feeling cold.

1. Headache: Pain in the head often accompanies a fever.

2. Muscle aches: Sharp or constant aches can be due to fever.

3. Rash: Red bumps may be observed on the skin along with fever

4. Restlessness: One may feel restless while having a fever.

5. Weakness or fatigue: One may feel reduced muscle strength during a fever.

6. Sweating

7. Low appetite: A variety of infections can cause fever along with a lack of appetite.

8. Signs of dehydration

9. Increased sensitivity to pain

10. Lack of energy and feeling sleepy

11. Difficulty in concentrating

b. If a baby has a fever, these symptoms are prominent:

1. Feel hot to the touch

2. Have flushed cheeks

3. Sweaty

Febrile seizures are the frightening side effects of fever, which are mostly present in children. They most likely occur with a fever of at least 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). In some cases, children may have seizures before developing a fever. These seizures happen in 2 to 4 per cent of children under the age of 5. These seizures are short-lived and harmless, but in 2.5 per cent to 5 per cent of children who have complex febrile seizures, epilepsy could develop. With high fever, there may also be irritability, confusion, delirium, and seizures.

Pathophysiology of Fever

Specific body temperature is a balance of heat production and heat loss. Hypothalamus (a gland in the brain), also called the body thermostat, monitors this balance. Even in a healthy condition, the body temperature varies; it can be lower in the morning and higher in the late afternoon and evening.

A fever is the immune system’s response to foreign invaders. These foreign invaders include viruses, bacteria, fungi, drugs or toxins. These foreign invaders are considered pyrogens (fever-producing substances) that trigger the body’s immune response. Pyrogens signal the hypothalamus, which sets the body temperature higher in order to help the body fight against the infection. This complex process results in more heat production and restricts heat loss. The body produces heat when one shivers in fever. Wrapping a blanket around the body in a chilled state of fever is a way to retain body heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is fever a disease?

No. Fever is not a disease; it is a symptom showing that the body is fighting an infection.

2. When should I take medicine for a fever?

If the temperature is above 100–101°F, or if you feel very uncomfortable, you can take prescribed antipyretic medicines like paracetamol after consulting a doctor.

3. How much rest is needed during a fever?

Complete rest is very important. Avoid heavy work, exercise, and mental stress until you have recovered.

4. What should I eat and drink during a fever?

A few dietary tips include taking plenty of fluids, juices, coconut water, ORS, light foods like khichdi, dal, soup and fresh fruits. Avoid having oily, spicy and junk food.

5. Can fever spread from one person to another?

Fever itself does not spread, but infections causing fever (like viral flu) can be contagious.

6. Is fever dangerous?

Most fevers are mild and harmless. But a very high fever or a long-lasting fever can be serious and needs medical attention.

7. When should I consult a doctor?

Consult immediately if the fever lasts more than 2–3 days, temperature is above 103°F with severe headache, vomiting, rashes, difficulty in breathing, there is fever with chills and rigors, fever in infants or elderly and if fever is present during pregnancy.

8. Can I take antibiotics for a fever?

No. Antibiotics work only for bacterial infections. Taking them without a prescription is harmful.

9. Is bathing allowed during a fever?

Yes. Sponging with lukewarm water can help reduce body temperature and make you comfortable.

10. How can I prevent fever?

A few measures to prevent infections and hence fever are: washing hands regularly, drinking clean water, and eating hygienic food, avoiding close contact with sick people and maintaining good immunity.

11. What is the difference between viral and bacterial fever?

Viral fever usually goes away in 3–5 days

12. Bacterial fever may need antibiotics and lasts longer

Only a doctor can differentiate between the two.

13. Can home remedies help in fever?

Yes, simple measures like enough rest, warm fluids, a light diet and in a few cases, sponging can help, along with prescribed medicines.