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Top Homeopathic Medicines for Chikungunya

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 357 Comments
homeopathic medicines for chikungunya

Homeopathic medicines for chikungunya

The name Chikungunya comes from an African Makonde language means ‘that which bends up’” The disease was given its name because it led to the affected persons walking in a stooped posture due to intense joint and muscle pains. Chikungunya is a viral infection caused by Chikungunya virus (CHIKV). Like dengue, it is also transmitted to humans after being bitten by the Aedes mosquito infected with this virus. Compared to dengue which is a serious infection, Chikungunya is usually not serious or fatal but the joint pains caused by it can be really nerve–wracking and disabling. High fever and joint pains are the most common symptoms of chikungunya. One infection with chikungunya virus gives lifelong immunity means a person cannot get this infection twice in his/her life.

Homeopathic Treatment     

The homeopathic mode of treatment ensures complete relief from the symptoms of Chikungunya fever. It can be treated very effectively with natural homeo medicines that are made of natural substances and have no side-effects. The homeopathic treatment for Chikungunya fever is absolutely safe and can only benefit the patient, never harm. The aim of the homeopathic mode of treatment is to provide complete symptomatic relief to the patients. These medicines are also highly effective to manage chronic Chikungunya arthritis. The same medicines help in giving relief from the joint pains during the acute phase, and in some cases that may otherwise trouble a patient for months or even years.

The homeopathic medicines for treating Chikungunya fever are selected based upon the unique individual symptoms.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Chikungunya Fever

1. Polyporus Pinicola –  Top Medicine For Chikungunya Fever

Polyporus Pinicola is a leading homeopathic medicine for Chikungunya fever. It works best and manages fever with joint pains and headache. With fever – chills and shivers are felt. The joint pains are distinctly present in ankles, knees, hip, elbow, wrist, and finger joints. Fingers may be stiff as well. Restlessness may attend along with joint pains at night time. In some cases, back pain, and pain in the legs may be present. Those who need Polyporus Pinicola have severe headache along with confusion in head with a hot flushed face. Constant nausea may also be present.

2. Eupatorium Perfoliatum –  To Manage Fever And Pains

Eupatorium Perfoliatum effectively manages high fever with severe pains. Pains can be in joints, bones, muscles, and the back. Those who need it feels as if the bones are broken. Chills are also accompanied along with pains all over the body. Vomiting specifically after chills may occur. Along with the above-mentioned symptoms there is excessive weakness, and fatigue.

3. Bryonia Alba – To Manage Fever, Joint / Muscle Pains Worse With Motion

Bryonia is a natural medicine to help manage fever and joint / muscle pains. The foremost feature to use this medicine is worsening of joint or muscle pains from movement and relief after complete rest. The joints along with pain are swollen and feel warm. In some cases, warm application on joints offers relief from the pain. During fever, chills are distinctly present. There is increased thirst and the mouth goes dry.

4. Rhus Tox – To Manage Joint Pains, Muscle Pain, Backache

Rhus Tox is an excellent remedy to control joint pains and muscle pain in case of fever. It can be given for pain in any joint of the body. A key feature to use Rhus Tox is worsening of joint pains while resting and relief from movement. The joints show stiffness along with pain. Backache during fever can also be relieved by Rhus Tox. Chills accompanying the fever are also noted that alternate with heat in the body. Rhus Tox is also indicated to manage chronic Chikungunya arthritis.

5. Actaea Spicata – To Manage Small Joint Pain

It is a wonderful remedy to help in case of pain in small joints. Pain in small joints including the wrist, fingers, ankle, and toe. The affected joint may be swollen as well. Pain gets worse upon touching and moving the affected joint.

6. Arnica – To Manage Sore Bruised Pains

This natural remedy is perfect to manage pains that are sore and bruised which means the affected part pains upon being touch. It feels as if the part under pain is being hit hard or beaten. Pain can be generalised, or in some joint or muscle or back. Arnica can be used to manage pain during the acute phase, and it can also be administered in case of pain that lasts for longer duration, particularly, at the time one is making a recovery from infection.

7. Gelsemium – To Manage Weakness, Muscle Pain, Headache

Gelsemium is a herbal medicine to manage weakness in Chikungunya. Those needing it have marked weakness and desire to lie down. They have excessive drowsiness and sleepiness. Chill along with shivering is marked. Usually, a person does not feel thirsty. Pain in muscles is prominent along with headache and heaviness in eyes.

8. Belladonna – To Manage Headache, Fever And Red Rash

Belladonna is the top medicine for managing headache. In cases requiring it, pain is mostly felt on the sides of the head (temples). Relief by tight bandage is a sign for using Belladonna. Pain may get worse from noise and  light. There is fever with intense heat in body and body feels burning hot when touched. Belladonna is also indicated to manage reddish rash on skin along with above features. It is also recommended to manage conjunctivitis with redness of eye and burning pains.

9. Arsenic Album – To Manage Weakness And Fever

Arsenic Album is brilliant medicine to manage weakness and fever. Those needing it have so much weakness that they even cannot stand without feeling weak. They feel like lying down all the time. Internal chills are felt during fever. However, on touching the body form outside, it feels hot. Anxiety and restlessness accompany fever. Thirst for small quantity of water at very small intervals is felt.

10. Ipecac – For Relieving Nausea And Vomiting      

Ipecac is considered the best natural homeopathic remedy for providing relief from nausea and vomiting. It can be used for persistent nausea and vomiting during Chikungunya Fever. Homeopathic medicine Ipecac always shows its worth in providing relief from nausea and vomiting. The tongue is usually found to be almost clean in most cases.

11. Euphrasia – For Managing Conjunctivitis

Euphrasia is a well-indicated homeopathic medicine for managing conjunctivitis in a person with chikungunya infection. The symptoms of redness, watering, burning, itching in eyes get relieved by using Euphrasia.

Cause And Transmission Of Chikungunya

Chikungunya is caused by Chikungunya virus (CHIKV). It is transmitted to humans via bite from mosquito of aedes genus – Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti which are already infected with this virus. Such mosquitoes contract this virus when they bite a human being who has this virus in his blood. It can also spread by coming in contact with blood of infected person. It can also spread from a pregnant mother having chikungunya infection to the baby.

What Are The Symptoms Of Chikungunya?

The symptoms of Chikungunya viral infection start to appear around 3 to 7 days after mosquito bite. Recovery usually occurs in about a week or two but joint pains may linger on for long in some. The symptoms are as follows:

Most common symptoms are:

1.High fever above 102°F : The fever in Chikungunya infection usually subsides within three to four days

2. Joint pains: These occur in more than 85% of the cases. Multiple joints get affected here. Joint pain is symmetrical means if one joint wrist is affected on one side, then same joint on other side gets affected as well. The joints may also show swelling and stiffness. The joint pains continue for weeks, few months and even years in a few persons (approx. 40 % of persons) having this infection. This is then referred as Chronic Chikungunya Arthritis.

Other symptoms are as follows:

1. Rash on skin:In about 50% cases, the rash appears on the skin. The rash is red at times with small bumps. The rash may be localised to one body part or it may affect even 90% of body skin.

2. Headache, muscle pain, fatigue

3. Sometimes there may be abdomen pain, nausea, vomiting, conjunctivitis (inflamed conjunctiva – membrane that covers white of eyes and eyelids) and backache.

What Are Its Complications?

In most cases, no complications arise but in some cases, they may arise. Those at risk are persons with diabetes, high blood pressure, elderly people, young children. The complications include inflammation in various body parts like inflammation in liver (hepatitis), inflammation of kidneys (nephritis), inflamed retina of eyes or uveitis (inflammation of middle layer of eyewall), inflammation of spinal cord / membranes of brain.  A complication may arise in the form of bleeding from any body part,  cranial nerves function loss and Guillain barre syndrome (an autoimmune disorder affecting nervous system beginning with weakness in feet / lower legs usually that spread up that may progress to paralysis) .

Diagnosis of Chikungunya

1. The main recommended test is Serological test ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays) to rule IgM and IgG antibodies to chikungunya virus. It is a blood test. In chikungunya fever IgM antibodies can be detected 3 to 4 days following symptom start and remain for 3 to 4 months. IgG antibodies are detectable 6 to 7 days post symptom onset and persist for many years.

2. Virological test: RT-PCR(reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction). It is a rapid method to detect chikungunya virus in blood.

3. In addition to the above, in CBC (complete blood count) lymphocyte count is found to be less.

Chikungunya Vs Dengue Fever

Both Chikungunya and Dengue are viral infections transmitted to human beings by bite of an infected mosquito of Aedes genus. But dengue is a much serious infection and can turn fatal if not treated carefully and timely, while chikungunya is not usually fatal and a person recovers in a week or two. In both these infections, high fever and joint pains are prominent but in dengue, pain behind eye is highly characteristic. Additionally, in dengue, bleeding from various body parts like under skin from the nose, gums, rectum can occur if the platelets get lowered (called dengue hemorrhagic fever) which usually is not the case with chikungunya. As both Chikungunya and Dengue have common symptoms of high fever and joint pain in the initial phase, so confirmed diagnosis cannot be made alone on symptom picture and blood tests are required to confirm whether it is dengue or chikungunya.

Preventive Tips

1. The best preventive tip to prevent chikungunya infection is to prevent a mosquito bite.

2. Control mosquito breeding.

3. Wear full sleeves clothes and clothes that cover the entire legs when going outside.

4. Throw away unused containers holding water. Properly clean the necessary water-holding containers regularly and keep them covered.

5. Use insect repellants that have DEET or picaridin.

6. Use mosquito net to prevent mosquito bites.

 

 

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Homeopathic Medicines for Dengue Prevention

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 216 Comments

Dengue Fever triggers an instant scare, and rightly so. It’s a viral fever that spreads by the bite of female mosquitoes of Aedes genus mainly Aedes aegypti which is itself infected with dengue virus. The mosquito gets dengue virus on biting a person carrying dengue virus in his/ her blood. It is also known as ‘break bone fever’. Dengue fever can range from mild to severe. Severe dengue fever can be life-threatening and needs to be urgently treated at a hospital. In any case of dengue fever, one needs to be vigilant regarding the signs and symptoms and if any warning signs of severe form come up, take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment without any delay.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic medicines for dengue fever are very effective. Eupatorium Perfoliatum leads the chart of homeopathic medicine to manage dengue fever. These medicines are made of natural substances, are completely safe with no side effects and have shown effective cure in treating thousands of dengue cases. These medicines can be considered in mild to moderate cases under the supervision of homeopathic physician. In no case self- medication be done. In case of severe cases/dengue hemorrhagic fever, dengue shock syndrome immediately rush to the hospital for emergency help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Remedies For Dengue Fever

Homeopathic Remedies For Dengue Fever

Note: Please note that Dengue and Dengue Hemorrhagic fever can turn into a critical life-threatening condition, hence should not be treated only with homeopathic medicines and they should only be considered as an additional help along with conventional mode of treatment. Hospital supervision of the patient is very essential.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Dengue Fever

1. Eupatorium Perfoliatum – One Of The Best Homeopathic Medicines For Dengue Fever

Homeopathic physicians rank Eupatorium Perfoliatum as the best Homeopathic medicine for Dengue Fever. It is undoubtedly the first medicine to be used in dengue fever cases. The characteristic feature to use it is severe muscle, bone and joint pains with high fever. This medicine is also popularly known as ‘bone set’ as it brings about the quickest relief in severe bone and joint pains in fever. The pain can be present in any bone or it may generally be felt in the whole body. In general body ache, it feels as if the whole body is broken. Apart from relieving joint pains, it is also very beneficial if there is severe pain in the eyeballs caused by dengue fever. It helps in recovering from headache with nausea and vomiting too. The headache is present mostly on the top (vertex) of head. Mainly the patients requiring this remedy for Dengue have severe chill with shivering and severe body pains. After the chill is over, vomiting occurs. In majority of the cases, sweat brings relief in all the symptoms, with the exception of pain in head. Weakness, tiredness may attend above symptoms.

Eupatorium Perfoliatum as a preventive homeopathic medicine for dengue

Although there is no concrete research on the role of Eupatorium Perfoliatum as preventive homeopathic medicine for dengue fever, it is widely used as a prophylaxis for dengue. It is used as its usage is in accordance with homeopathic laws of prophylaxis (Laws stated in homeopathic philosophy suggest that the homeopathic medicine that is closest in symptom-match to the symptoms of an outbreak of a disease can be used as a prophylaxis). The homeopathic medicine which closely matches the symptoms of dengue outbreak is Eupatorium Perfoliatum. It can be used in 30C potency twice daily during an outbreak of dengue fever.

2. Bryonia Alba – To Manage Fever And Muscle / Joint Pains

Bryonia Alba is of great help in providing relief from muscle/ joint pains in dengue fever. This medicine offers the best help when there is worsening of pains by any movement even in the least degree. Complete rest gives relief from pain. There is fever with marked chills. With chills, there is heat in the head.  Extreme thirst for water with a dry mouth may be felt along with this specific feature.

3. Rhus Tox – To Relieve Pain (Muscle, Bone, Joint Pains)

Rhus Tox is another highly recommended medicine to relieve pain in body during fever. It works best when muscle bone or joint pains get worse from rest and are better from movement. There is fever with alternating heat and chill stage. There occur burning heat in body followed by chills and shivering.

4. Gelsemium – For Dengue Fever With Weakness And Prostration

Gelsemium is the best for dengue fever patients who experience utmost weakness and prostration. A state of dullness, dizziness and drowsiness is the perfect description to select gelsemium. The patients needing it seem lethargic and have a desire to lie down in perfect silence without any disturbance. He or she also wants to be quiet and dislikes conversation. The patient experiences shaking chills which is most typically marked in the back and travels up and down the back. Another feature is headache with heaviness of eyes. The headache is mainly present in the back of the head that in most cases travels up to the forehead and eyes. There is also an absence of thirst in majority of cases. Muscle pains may attend above symptoms.

5. Belladonna – To Manage Headache, Pain Behind Eyes And Fever With Marked Heat

Belladonna is the best choice to manage headache. In cases needing it, though pain may be felt in any part of the head but is mostly marked on the sides of head (temples). For using Belladonna, the pain is very violent, and throbbing in nature. Tight binding of the head provides relief. It is also helpful in relieving pain behind the eyes. During fever, there is intense heat in body with red flushed face and lack of thirst.

6. Arsenic Album – To Manage Weakness And Fever

Arsenic Album is an ideal homeopathic medicine to manage weakness during fever. Even standing and walking result in fatigue where this medicine is required. There is a need to lie down all the time because of tiredness. There may be internal chills in the body but the body is hot to touch from outside. Fever mostly comes at night and is attended with marked anxiety and restlessness. There is thirst for little quantity of water at very small intervals. Arsenic can also be given for managing nausea and vomiting. Nausea gets worse by the smell or sight of food and vomiting gets worse from eating or drinking anything.

7. Ipecac – To Manage Nausea And Vomiting

For relieving nausea and vomiting, Ipecac can be used as a first medicine. It is of great help when there is persistent nausea and vomiting. Nausea does not get better even after vomiting. There is vomiting of watery fluid, along with cutting pain in abdomen.

8. Homeopathic Medicines For Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Although there are certain homeopathic medicines to manage bleeding in dengue hemorrhagic fever, it is strictly advised to take urgent medical help from conventional mode of treatment in such cases as this condition can be life-threatening and may need urgent hospitalization. For help to manage bleeding, homeopathic medicines can be used along with conventional treatment and should not be in any case considered as a substitute treatment to conventional mode. The main homeopathic medicines that can help in dengue hemorrhagic fever are Hamamelis and China.

Hamamelis is a brilliant medicine to manage bleeding from any body part. It is indicated to manage bleeding under skin, from nose, gums, rectum, in urine, in vomitus. There is excessive exhaustion. China is equally important medicine to manage bleeding. It is of great help when there is profuse bleeding along with marked exhaustion. Debility and utmost prostration with hemorrhages is its main indication.

Symptoms Of Dengue fever

The symptoms start anytime between 4 days to 14 days after bite of an infected mosquito. However, in 80% cases no symptoms arise. Recovery occurs in three to seven days approximately in most cases. But it may develop into a severe disease known as dengue hemorrhagic fever/ dengue shock syndrome.

The main symptoms of dengue fever are:

1. Sudden onset High fever (over 104 degree F). Fever is saddleback (or biphasic) type means after the first peak of fever, subsidence of fever occurs for at least a day which is followed by a second peak of fever for a day or two.

2. Pain typically behind eye worsened by eye motion or pressure

3. Severe muscle, bone and joint pains

4. Severe headache

5. Nausea or vomiting

6. Skin rash: It is noted in about 50 % to 80% of the cases. Initially, skin appears red, flushed and later on a measles-like rash occurs.

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

A few cases of dengue fever (around 1 in 20) progress to a serious disease called dengue hemorrhagic fever. It is a serious life-threatening condition needing emergency medical help in hospital. In this serious form, bleeding occurs from different body parts. It usually starts to happen in 24-48 hrs after fever has subsided. In such cases, the platelets (cells responsible for clotting of blood) in the blood significantly decrease leading to hemorrhages (bleeding).

The bleeding may be

1. Under the skin

-Petechiae – tiny bleeding points under skin

– Ecchymosis – blue or purple spots on skin from breaking of blood vessels near skin

– Purpura is similar to ecchymosis but lesions in it are small as compared to ecchymosis

2. From the nose (Epistaxis)

3. From gums

4. Vomiting of blood (Hematemesis)

5. Blood in stool

6. Blood in urine

Along with bleeding, severe abdomen pain and persistent vomiting, fatigue, restlessness, irritability can attend. Those having weak immunity and those having dengue infection for the second time are at a high risk to suffer dengue haemorrhagic fever.

Dengue Shock Syndrome

Like dengue hemorrhagic fever, it is also a serious life-threatening condition needing emergency medical help at hospital.

In case severe bleeding occurs, shock may develop with very low blood pressure, rapid or weak pulse with cold clammy skin and restlessness. It may eventually result in death. Such severe cases with shock are referred to as Dengue Shock Syndrome.

Cause of Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is caused by dengue virus. A person gets this virus infection on being bitten by Aedes mosquito itself infected with dengue virus.

After the entry of dengue virus into the skin of the person, it enters white blood cells and starts reproduction. Certain proteins – cytokines and interferons – are produced by WBCs as a response to virus multiplication resulting in symptoms like fever and pains. If infection gets severe, virus multiplication increases rapidly and affects organs like liver and bone marrow. This may decrease the number of platelets required for blood clotting that may lead to bleeding from various body parts.

Dengue fever cannot pass directly from person to person like via direct skin contact. But one may get infection if they come in contact with infected blood.

In pregnant women, dengue virus can pass to the baby in womb.

There are five strains of dengue virus that can cause dengue fever. Getting infected by any dengue virus strain gives you lifetime immunity to that particular strain of dengue virus. But this does not nullify the chances of getting infected by rest of the strains of dengue virus. A person may suffer infection from all the five strains (only once with each of them) of dengue virus in his/her life. The chances of severe dengue rises on getting dengue fever more than once.

Complications

The complications include internal bleeding, seizures (fits), brain inflammation and damage, liver damage, lung damage, shock due to low blood pressure from excessive bleeding that if not promptly treated, can turn fatal.  In pregnant women having dengue infection, the dengue virus may pass to the baby in womb, it also increases the risk of miscarriage and the chance of low birth weight of baby and pre-term birth also increases.

Diagnostic Investigations

1. Dengue RNA PCR test:  It can detect dengue virus in early stage of infection and also help to detect the particular strain of dengue virus causing infection.

2. Viral antigen detection test – NS1 (named Dengue NS1 Antigen Test). NS1 means non structural protein 1. It can also detect virus in early infection stage and should be done within the first 5 days of appearance of symptoms.

3. Dengue serology – Dengue virus-specific antibodies IgG and IgM test.

Among these, IgM antibodies appear in early stage of infection and their detection while symptoms have already appeared indicates dengue infection. The presence of IgM antibodies cannot be detected one to three months after infection.

IgG antibodies detects infection in late stage as IgG levels increase slowly. It can be detected till over 60 yrs age or even through a lifetime indicating past infection.

4. Platelet count: This is lowered in dengue hemorrhagic fever. Normal platelet count is 1.5 lac to 4.5 lac/microliter of blood. Low platelet count is medically termed thrombocytopenia. In dengue cases platelet count may drop to as low as 20000 to 40000 / microliter of blood.

Prevention of Dengue Fever

1. The best possible way to prevent dengue fever is to prevent mosquito bites and control mosquito breeding.

2. Take measures to stop breeding of mosquitoes. Do not let water collect in any pot, can, old tyres or any other box as mosquitoes breed in standing water. Throw away any pots or boxes where rainwater can collect.

3. Keep windows and doors closed as far as possible to prevent mosquito entry in house.

4. When going out, wear full sleeves clothes, and clothes that cover legs and also wear socks.

5. Use mosquito repellents containing 20% to 30% of DEET.

6. Use of mosquito nets can be helpful.

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Agaricus Muscarius: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 11 Comments

Agaricus Muscarius is a brilliant nerve remedy. It has a great ability to manage nerve issues like twitching, neuralgia, tics, chorea and epilepsy. It also has marked effect on back pain and spine complaints. Other than this, its role in treating chilblains and frostbite is noteworthy.

The ‘Agaricus Muscarius’ Constitution

This medicine is well suited to persons who are very sensitive to cold and damp. It also suits elderly people having poor blood circulation. Lastly, it is suitable to alcoholics especially to manage headache.

 Drug Action

The most prominent action of this medicine is on the nerves, back, spine, mind and skin. Other than these, it acts well on the face, head, eyes, limbs, male and female genitals.

Clinical Indications

Back pain, spinal irritation, chilblains, frostbite, acne rosacea, twitching, tics, neuralgia, chorea, epilepsy, paralysis, blepharospasm, nystagmus, painful menses.

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Neck, Back And Spine (Pain, Stiffness, Weakness)

Agaricus Muscarius acts wonderfully on the neck, back and spine to help various complaints. It is a very effective medicine for managing cases of back pain. It gives good results in cases of lower back pain, especially the one felt after exertion. The pain tends to increase while sitting and stooping. The pain is severe confining the sufferer to the bed. There may be a feeling of heavy load in the lower back. The entire spine is sensitive to touch. Burning and shooting pain is marked in the spine. It feels as if the spine is being pierced with hot or cold needles, it feels very weak. A peculiar sensation as if ants are creeping along the spine can be present. The muscles of the back feel tight. It can be used for cases of neck pain and stiffness. Tightness is felt in the neck. Twitching may be felt in the neck muscles. There may also occur stiffness between the shoulders along with weakness.

Key Indicating Features

Lower back pain worse after exertion, while sitting and stooping

Sensitivity of whole spine to touch

Burning and shooting pain in the spine

Sensation as if spine is pierced with hot or cold needles

2. Nerves (Twitching, Tics, Neuralgia, Numbness, Chorea, Epilepsy, Paralysis)

Agaricus has great ability to help nerve issues like twitching (involuntary muscle contraction), neuralgia (nerve pain), numbness and chorea. It proves effective on twitching of facial muscle and eyelids. Muscle twitches occurring during sleep are very effectively managed with it. Agaricus is highly useful for cases of tics and chorea cases. Tics are sudden muscle twitchings, sudden repetitive muscle movement or sounds. Chorea is a movement disorder causing brief, abrupt, involuntary unpredictable body movement. In chorea cases, Agaricus can be used for jerking of a single muscle or several muscles together causing dancing like position of the body.

Chorea

Chorea

In neuralgia (nerve pain) cases, it is highly suitable to manage facial neuralgia. It is well indicated for epilepsy (tendency to have recurrent seizures means fits) cases as well. It is indicated for epilepsy that occurs after fright or from suppressed eruptions. Lastly, its use is recommended for managing cases of paralysis. It is mainly indicated for managing paralysis (loss of muscle function) of upper or lower limbs or of facial muscles.

Key Indicating Features

Twitching of facial muscle, eyelids

Chorea for jerking of a single muscle or several muscles together causing dancing of body

Epilepsy after fright or from suppressed eruptions

Paralysis of upper or lower limbs or of facial muscles

2. Mind (Depression, Delirium, Fears)

Agaricus has a wonderful action on mind. It can be given in cases of depression, delirium, and fears. In depression, it is indicated when there is aversion to work, indifferent behavior and weakness. It works well in delirium cases. Delirium is sudden change in brain causing confusion, unclear speaking and thinking, trouble paying attention, distraction and disorientation. In delirium, this medicine is mainly used when there is excessive talkativeness with change of subject from one to another suddenly and rapidly, incoherent talk, screaming, shouting, muttering, rhyming, desire to injure oneself, rage and muscle twitching. It is a prominent medicine for managing delirium of fever. Agaricus is an excellent medicine for managing certain fears. These include fear of cancer, of being left alone, of ghosts.

Key Indicating Features

Delirium with talkativeness, incoherent talk, screaming, muttering, rhyming, desire to injure himself, rage and muscle twitching

Delirium of fever

Fear of cancer, of left alone, ghosts

4. Skin Issues (Chilblains, Frostbite, Itching, Pricking, Acne Rosacea)

It has brilliant action on skin. It is one of the best homeopathic medicines for treating cases of chilblains and frostbite. Chilblains refers to inflammation of small blood vessels in skin that appear in response to cold exposure. In this itchy, swollen red areas occur on skin of hands or feet. In case of chilblains, it gives best results when there is intense itching and burning on skin.

Chilblains

Chilblains

Frostbite refers to skin injury resulting from exposure to very low temperature causing freezing of skin and underlying tissues. Agaricus is well indicated for marked pain, inflammation, redness, and swelling in cases of frostbite. A marked characteristic feature for its use is needle-like pricking sensation in different parts of the skin. This medicine proves beneficial in cases of skin itching as well. In cases needing it, itching is felt all over the body. Besides, there may be no eruptions. Itching disturbs sleep. After scratching, itching shifts places. Another marked indication to use this medicine is small, hard, red pimples scattered over body. Lastly, it is indicated for treating acne rosacea (skin condition causing flushing of facial skin that may be attended with pus-filled eruptions).

Acne rosacea

Acne rosacea

Key Indicating Features

Chilblains with intense itching and burning on skin

Pain, inflammation, redness, swelling in frostbite cases

Pricking sensation on the skin

Itching that disturbs sleep

5. Face (Twitching, Nerve Pain)

Agaricus Muscarius has marked action on the face. It proves to be a highly effective medicine in managing twitching (involuntary muscle contraction) of facial muscles. It is also an important medicine for managing facial nerve pain (neuralgia). Here the guiding symptom is pain with a sensation as if cold needles are passing through the nerves. This medicine can be used in cases of herpes eruptions present especially on the upper lip. It also helps cases where pain in cheeks is well marked. The pain can be throbbing, pulsating, lancinating or tearing type.

Key Indicating Features

Twitching of facial muscles

Facial nerve pain with feeling of cold needles passing through the nerves

Herpes eruptions on upper lip

Throbbing, pulsating, lancinating or tearing pain in cheeks

6. Eyes Complaints (Blepharospasm, Eye Floaters, Pain, Nystagmus, Squint)

Agaricus is a top-grade medicine for managing twitching of eyelids (blepharospasm). Another complaint for which it is prominently indicated is nystagmus which means rapid, repetitive, involuntary movement of eye.

Agaricus has also shown great clinical improvements in eye floaters complaint. Its use is recommended when eye floaters are yellow, black or brown, especially in front of left eye. Flickering may also be felt in front of the eyes while writing. It can be used to manage eye pain as well. There is eye pain, pressing and burning sensation is felt on the movement of eyeballs. Besides, it can be given in cases of squint too.

Key Indicating Features

Twitching of eyelids (blepharospasm)

Rapid, repetitive, involuntary movement of eye (nystagmus)

Eye floaters – yellow, black or brown mainly in front of the left eye

7. Head (Headache, Itching, Involuntary Movement)

By acting on the head, it offers help to manage headache. The key feature for its use is pain in head with bleeding from nose. It is also well indicated for headache faced by alcoholics. A very unique feature is relief in headache after stool or urination. Persons needing it may feel icy coldness in the head as if occurring from icy cold needles. It is very important indication is involuntary motion of the head. Agaricus is also useful in managing itching of the scalp that occurs early morning.

Key Indicating Features

Headache with bleeding from nose

Headache in alcoholics

Icy coldness in the head as if occurring from icy cold needles

Involuntary motion of the head

8. Limbs (Cramps, Numbness, Joint Pain, Weakness, Locomotor Ataxia)

With its action on limbs, it can manage cramps in hands or feet. It can offer help to manage trembling of limbs. Agaricus can also help to relieve numbness in lower limbs. Another complaint where it can help is tearing, stitching or pressing pain in hip joint. It works well for managing knee joint pain too. The pain aggravates by sitting and deteriorates by walking. Heaviness and weakness of lower limbs can be well managed with it. Lastly, it is indicated to manage pain in case of locomotor ataxia (lack of muscle control over voluntary movements) cases and also uncertain gait.

Key Indicating Features

Cramps in hands or feet

Trembling of limbs

Knee pain worse from sitting and better by walking

Heaviness and weakness of lower limbs

Pain in locomotor ataxia

9. Sleep Issues (Sleeplessness, Drowsiness, Twitching During Sleep)

Agaricus Muscarius can effectively deal with sleep issues. Firstly, it is useful for cases in which there occurs muscle twitching during sleep. Secondly, issue of sleeplessness due to rush of ideas in mind can be managed with this medicine. It can be of great help in cases of restless sleep arising from excessive itching and burning of skin. It may help people who feel drowsy in the daytime and are unable to resist sleep.

Key Indicating Features

Twitching of muscle during sleep

Sleeplessness from rush of ideas in mind

Restless sleep due to excessive itching and burning of skin

10. Male Problems (Weakness, Premature Ejaculation)

Males may find this medicine suitable to manage excessive weakness after sexual intercourse. With weakness there occurs excessive sweating and itching and burning of skin. It is a suitable medicine to manage burning sensation in urethra during ejaculation. Last indication for its use is premature ejaculation.

Key Indicating Features

Weakness after sex

Burning in urethra during ejaculation

Premature ejaculation

11. Female Problems (Bearing Down, Painful Menses, Leucorrhea)

In females, this medicine can be very useful to manage complaint of bearing down pain in pelvis mainly after menopause. It can be helpful to relive painful menses too.  There is labor-like cramping pain during menses with desire to lie down. Besides these, it can be used to manage leucorrhoea means vaginal discharge that are dark, blood-stained and attended with itching and sexual desire.

Key Indicating Features

Bearing down pain in pelvis mainly after menopause

Labor like cramping pain during menses with desire to lie down

Vaginal discharge that are dark and blood-stained, attended with itching and sexual desire

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from cold air, in cold weather, from touch, from fright, during menses, from mental exhaustion, fright, from alcohol intake and after sexual intercourse

Relieving factors: Complaints get better in open air and by moving about slowly

Dosage

Use of this medicine is recommended from 30 C to 200 C potency. In skin complaints and nervous exhaustion, its use is advised in low potencies.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Calcarea Carb, Pulsatilla and Rhus Tox

Followed well by: Belladonna, Calcarea Carb, Cuprum Met, Merc Sol, Opium, Pulsatilla, Rhus Tox, Silicea and Tuberculinum

 

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Top 5 Homeopathic Medicines for Tennis Elbow

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 92 Comments

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a musculoskeletal condition with pain around the outer part of the elbow. Tennis elbow is mainly caused due to repetitive overuse of muscles and tendons of the forearm near the elbow joint. Contrary to its name, it is not limited to just tennis players and can occur in anyone who puts repetitive stress on the elbow joint, for example carpenters, violin players and painters. Pain and weakness due to tennis elbow can hamper daily activities such as shaking hands, holding a cup, turning a door knob, etc.

Homeopathy extends great help in treating cases of tennis elbow. It can effectively manage pain, stiffness and swelling of elbow. It uses natural and safe homeopathic medicines that act deep and have no side effects. Unlike the conventional mode of medicine, homeopathic medicines do not suppress the disease and its symptoms. In fact, they attack the disorder at the root and set off the body’s own restorative processes, making it strong enough to completely eradicate the disease. Suppressing the disease does not really help, so homeopathic medicines are a natural, healing alternative. Use of homeopathic medicines also reduces the dependency on pain killers remarkably.

homeopathic medicines for tennis elbow

Homeopathy reduces tendon inflammation

Homeopathic medicines work by reducing inflammation of tendons to give long-term relief in tennis elbow cases. They also help in healing damaged/injured tendons. As the root cause is treated, cure automatically sets in.

Homeopathy has no side effects

The best advantage of using homeopathic medicines is that they do not cause side effects in any case. These medicines work in a very safe, gentle and harmless manner to boost body’s self-healing mechanism to overcome this complaint naturally with zero side effects. These medicines also do not cause any dependency. Once the problem has been resolved, one can gradually stop the medication.

Individualized medication

Homeopathic medicines for tennis elbow are selected by taking into consideration the peculiar characteristic symptoms in every individual case. After a detailed case study is done, the homeopathic medicine is finalized. So, the homeopathic prescription varies from case to case. Therefore, it is advised to take homeopathic medicines for tennis elbow after consulting a homeopath. Self – medication should be avoided.

Top 5 Homeopathic Medicines For Tennis Elbow

Among the homeopathic medicines for tennis elbow the top-grade ones are Rhus Tox, Ruta, Bryonia, Bellis Perennis and Calcarea Carb.

Elbow joint

Elbow joint

1. Rhus Tox – Top Grade Medicine

Rhus Tox is the most frequently prescribed medicine for managing cases of tennis elbow. It is the best medicine to start treatment of conditions that arise from overstraining, overuse of muscles and tendons. It helps to effectively manage inflammation and damaged tendons. It has shown remarkable results in tennis elbow cases with tearing pain in tendons and muscles. Soreness in the condyles of the joints is also present. In cases needing it, the pain in elbow is worse when at rest and gets better with movement. Stiffness at the elbow is also marked along with pain.
When to use Rhus Tox?
Rhus Tox should be given in cases of tennis elbow when pain in elbow is worse at rest and gets better from movement.
How to use Rhus Tox?
It can be used in both low and high potencies among which the most preferred is 30 C potency. Initially, one may use Rhus Tox 30 C three to four times a day depending on the severity. Reduce the dose when improvement in symptoms begins.

Condyle of joint in fingers

Condyle of joint in fingers

2. Ruta – For Sore Pain And Stiffness Of Elbow

It is a herbal medicine prepared from plant ‘garden rue’. Ruta is pretty similar in its action to Rhus Tox in treating cases of tendon inflammation and injury from overuse and overstraining. It is well indicated when there occurs sore pain and stiffness in the elbow. Sore pain means pain from touching the affected area. Weakness of the arm may attend it.
When and How to use Ruta?
Ruta should be considered in tennis elbow cases with sore pain and stiffness of elbow. It helps to relieve these complaints by reducing tendon inflammation and healing damaged tendons.
How to use Ruta?
Ruta is most frequently used in 30C potency that can be taken three to four times a day.

3. Bryonia – For Pain And Swelling Around Elbow

This natural medicine is prepared from root of plant ‘wild hops’. Bryonia is a wonderful medicine to manage tennis elbow with marked pain and swelling around the elbow. The characteristic feature to use it is worsening of pain in the elbow from movement and relief from rest. At times, pain may radiate down from the elbow to the wrist.
When to use Bryonia?
This medicine should be used when pain in elbow is accompanied by swelling, with pain getting worse from every movement and relief from rest.
How to use Bryonia?
Its 30C potency is the right choice to start with that can be used two to three times a day.

4. Bellis Perennis – For Healing Tendon Injury, Inflammation

Bellis Perennis is another medicine of natural origin to treat tennis elbow cases. It is prepared from the flowering plant ‘english daisy’. Repetitive stress injury and inflammation of tendon of elbow due to exertion or overuse of muscles is treated best with this medicine. The action of this medicine is similar to that of Rhus Tox and Ruta. This medicine is also indicated to help cases of direct injury to elbow. It helps to heal injured tendons and reduce its inflammation and reduce elbow pain.
When to use Bellis Perennis?
This medicine can be used to heal injured tendons and control tendon inflammation of elbow and provide pain relief.
How to use Bellis Perennis?
This medicine can be used in 30C potency twice a day.

5. Calcarea Carb – For Pain Extending From Elbow To Wrist

Calcarea Carb is very effective on pain arising on the outer side of the elbow and radiating down to the wrist. This pain occurs mostly when the sufferer tries to hold an object. The nature of pain is mostly tearing type. Besides, stiffness in elbow may be present.
When to use Calcarea Carb?
It is a highly effective medicine for managing pain on the outer side of elbow extending down to wrist.
How to use Calcarea Carb?
It can be taken in 30C potency. Dose should be limited to once a day.

Symptoms Of Tennis Elbow

1. Pain: The main symptom of tennis elbow is pain on the outer side of elbow where tendons (tissue band connecting muscle to bone) of muscles of forearm connect to the bony bump of the elbow. In some cases, pain may extend down to the forearm and the wrist. The pain may get worse from bending the arm, twisting the forearm, turning a door knob, writing, lifting things, griping objects. Sometimes the sufferer may experience burning in the outer side of the elbow.

2. Stiffness in elbow while extending the arm

3. Swelling of elbow and tenderness (pain on touching) of elbow

4. Weak grip on holding objects

 Causes Behind Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow arises from the overuse of muscles of the forearm. This happens from the repetitive use of forearm muscles in some activities that put stress on tendons that unite forearm muscles to the bony projection of elbow. As a result, tendons get inflamed, damaged and in some cases tear as well. Tennis elbow is common in tennis players. However, it is often seen in people performing other activities involving repetitive use of wrist and arm muscles like painters, plumbers, bowlers, gardeners, carpenters, swimmers. In some cases, a direct injury to elbow may result in this condition. Though tennis elbow may affect people of any age group but people between age of 30 yrs to 50 yrs are commonly affected. In some cases, tennis elbow occurs without any reason which is called idiopathic tennis elbow.

 

 

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Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Shoulder Pain

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 123 Comments

Any pain arising in the shoulder joint or the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons is called shoulder pain. It can be attended with stiffness, swelling and restricted movement of the shoulder depending on the cause behind it. The human shoulder is made up of a shoulder joint and different muscles, tendons and ligaments. The bones that constitute a shoulder joint are humerus, clavicle and scapula.  It is one of the largest joints of the body that accommodates a wide range of movements. This complex joint is highly movable but is also one of the most unstable joints in the body.

Homeopathy offers a wonderful and side effect- free treatment for cases of shoulder pain. Homeopathic medicines help to magnificently relieve shoulder pain along with managing other associated signs and symptoms like swelling, stiffness, tenderness, redness and heat in the shoulder.  As shoulder pain can arise from various causes, homeopathy gives excellent relief by treating the root cause behind it. In conventional treatment, pain killers, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti – inflammatory drugs) and steroids are recommended. These medicines are known to cause side effects from prolonged use, they also carry chances of creating dependency. Therefore, homeopathic medicines can be a great alternative to manage pain.

Homeopathy treats the root cause

For long-term relief in shoulder pain, the cause needs to be treated and homeopathic medicines follow this rule. For example, homeopathy helps in decreasing any inflammation and helps heal the muscles, tendons, and ligaments as the case may be, by encouraging natural healing within the body. Once the cause is addressed, the pain reduces and also any swelling or stiffness (if present) gets better.

Effective cure for Acute / Chronic cases

Homeopathy gives remarkable results in both acute and chronic cases. The acute cases get well quite quickly with homeopathic medicines. While chronic cases might take some more time to resolve completely, relief is noticeable in the very early phase of treatment. A gradual decrease in the frequency of symptoms occurs in chronic cases. With the regular course of homeopathic treatment as prescribed by a homeopathic physician, most of the chronic cases having mild to moderate intensity recover completely.

Safe, Natural medicines

Homeopathy uses natural medicines for shoulder pain. These medicines are made from natural substances and do not cause any side effects. These are safe to use among persons of all age groups.

homeopathic medicines for shoulder pain

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines For Shoulder Pain

The most commonly indicated medicines for shoulder pain – Rhus Tox, Sanguinaria Canadensis, Ferrum Met, Ruta Graveolens, Bryonia Alba and Arnica. 

1. Rhus Tox – Top Grade Medicine

When it comes to treat shoulder pain, Rhus Tox is a leading medicine. The most characteristic feature to use it is shoulder pain which gets worse at rest and better by movement. Rhus Tox is also one of the best medicines to manage shoulder pain arising from injury / overstraining / overstressing of muscles or tendons, inflamed tendons and joint inflammation. In cases needing it, the pain may vary that can be tearing, shooting, stitching or burning type. Along with pain and stiffness, swelling and cracking in the shoulder joint is also present.

When to use Rhus Tox?

It is a well-indicated medicine for shoulder pain arising from injury or over-straining of muscles or tendons, tendinitis and inflamed joints, especially when pain is worse at rest and better by movement.

How to use Rhus Tox?

Both low and high potencies of this medicine work well, however, it is advised to begin with 30C potency. Rhus Tox 30C can be taken twice or thrice a day as per intensity of complaint.

2. Sanguinaria Canadensis – For Shoulder Pain On Right Side

Sanguinaria Canadensis is the most frequently prescribed medicine for shoulder pain on the right side. In cases needing it, there occurs difficulty in raising the arm due to excessive shoulder pain. This pain extends to the right upper arm. The pain usually worsens during night and while turning in bed.

When to use Sanguinaria Canadensis?

Its use is suggested for right-sided shoulder pain which gets worse at night and when turning in bed along with difficulty in raising the arm.

How to use Sanguinaria Canadensis?

It can be used once or twice a day in 30 C potency but for high potency, kindly consult a homeopathic doctor.

3. Ferrum Met – For Left-Sided Shoulder Pain

Ferrum Met is most suitable for treating shoulder pain on the left side. The nature of shoulder pain is tearing, drawing, or boring. This pain may extend to the upper arm or even below. Persons who need it have worsening of pain on movement and they are unable to raise their arm. Cracking sound may occur in shoulder joint on movement. There may occur relief in pain from warm compress over the shoulder.

When to use Ferrum Met?

This medicine should be specifically selected for left-sided shoulder pain when there is pain with shoulder movement and there is inability to raise the arm.

How to use Ferrum Met?

The most commonly used potency of Ferrum Met is 30C that can be taken twice a day.

4. Ruta Graveolens – For Shoulder Pain Due To Injured Or Inflamed Tendons

Ruta Graveolens is a natural medicine obtained from the plant ‘garden rue’. It is an infallible medicine to manage shoulder pain due to injured or inflamed tendons. Shoulder pain that occurs due to overstretching of the shoulder tendons is also treatable with this medicine. It is used in cases where the shoulder is sore, bruised, and hanging the arms down worsens the pain. Ruta Graveolens helps reduce shoulder pain as well as the inflammation of tendons.

When to use Ruta Graveolens?

If an injured / inflamed tendon or overstretched tendon is giving rise to shoulder pain, Ruta should be given right away.

How to use Ruta Graveolens?

It is advised to take Ruta 30C twice or thrice a day.

5. Bryonia Alba – For Shoulder Pain Worse From Movement

It is a natural medicine to treat shoulder pain that gets worse with the slightest movement. Resting helps ease the pain. The shoulder can also appear shiny-red and swollen. There may occur a tightness sensation in the shoulder. The pain from the shoulder extends down the arm. Bryonia is an important medicine when shoulder pain occurs from inflamed joint.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

A person who experiences an increase in shoulder pain by movement and relief by resting will find this medicine highly effective.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

It can be taken in 30C potency two to three times a day for good results.

6. Arnica – For Shoulder Pain Post Injury

Arnica is a great herbal medicine to manage cases of shoulder pain that occurs after a shoulder injury. It works well when injury occurs from a blow; fall; or overuse of shoulder muscles, tendons; or straining of muscles. This medicine helps in healing injured area. Alongside it relieves pain and soreness of the shoulder.

When to use Arnica?

Arnica should be used as a first remedy to manage shoulder pain arising from an injury, strain or overuse of muscles and tendons. 

How to use Arnica?

Arnica acts most wonderfully in 30C potency. Arnica 30C can be taken three to four times a day. When relief appears, one may reduce its dose.

Causes Of Shoulder Pain

1. Frozen Shoulder (also known as adhesive capsulitis): It refers to pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint from the thickening and tightening of the capsule that encloses shoulder joint. Keeping the shoulder still for a prolonged period (like in case of a fracture in the arm, when recovering from surgery) is a major risk factor for a frozen shoulder.

2. Rotator cuff injury: Rotator cuff refers to collection of muscles and tendons which offer stability to shoulder and also help in its movement. Its injury includes inflammation of its tendons (rotator cuff tendinitis), strains (these occur from overuse and wear and tear of muscles) and tear of tendons (either partial or complete)

3. Tendinitis and Tendon tear: Tendinitis means inflamed tendons (tissue bands that connect muscle to a bone). An injury or degeneration in tendons of shoulders (rotator cuff tendons are commonly injured tendons) can lead to tendon tear. The tear may be partial or complete.

4. Impingement syndrome: Pinching of tendons of rotator cuff in shoulder bones

5. Sprain in shoulder: Twisting of ligaments (tissue bands that connect one bone to another bone) of shoulders

6. Shoulder Bursitis (subacromial bursitis): Bursa refers to a fluid-filled sac in the joint that reduces friction in joint structures to allow smooth joint movement. Shoulder bursitis results when this bursa gets inflamed. It may happen from an injury or joint inflammation.

7. Shoulder Arthritis: It refers to an inflamed shoulder joint. It may occur from osteoarthritis (degenerative changes in joints usually from age-related wear and tear or sometimes from an injury). It may also result from rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disorder characterized by swollen, inflamed, painful, stiff joints) and septic arthritis (serious joint infection caused by bacteria or virus).

8. Overuse or repetitive use of shoulder leading to an injury

9. Bone spurs: Extra bony growths projecting along the edge of the bone

10. Bone Fracture in the shoulder or dislocated shoulder

11. Nerve pinching in the neck or shoulder

12.  Referred pain: In some cases, shoulder pain occurs from a problem in a body part other than the shoulder itself, for example, a problem in the liver, or gallbladder. It is known as referred pain.

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Guaiacum Officinale: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 10 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Guaiacum Officinale, also known as Guajacum Officinale, is derived from gum resin of a tree known as Lignum sanctum or Lignum Vite. It is a large tree growing in West Indies. It belongs to family Zygophyllaceae. The gum resin of this plant undergoes potentization to get converted into a very beneficial homeopathic medicine Guaiacum Officinale. Potentization refers to a process by which homeopathic medicines are prepared by arousing the medicinal properties of a crude substance. Guaiacum Officinale is a very effective medicine for managing pain and stiffness in neck, backache and joint pains.

The ‘Guaiacum Officinale’ Constitution

This medicine suits people who are predisposed to joint inflammation or suffer from it.

Drug Action

It prominently acts well on the joints, bones, muscles, neck, back, mucus membranes and fibrous tissue. Besides, its action is noted on head, lungs, throat and gastric system.

Clinical Indications

Neck pain, neck stiffness, joint inflammation, gout, growing pains, bone pain, cough, pleurisy, throat disorders, tonsillitis, stomach disorders, diarrhea, constipation, inguinal hernia

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Neck And Back (Pain And Stiffness)

The main sphere of action of this medicine is noted on neck and back. It acts wonderfully on neck and back and gives magnificent results in various complaints related to it. First of all, it proves to be highly effective in cases of pain and stiffness in the neck. The shoulders are sore. If stiffness of neck occurs from exposure to cold, then this medicine can be of great help. A characteristic feature that can be present is stiffness on one side of the neck especially the left side radiating to the lower back, it gets worse from movement, and better from rest. Another peculiar indication for its use is pain of contractive type or stitching type between the scapulae (triangular bone in the upper back one on either side). This medicine also works well when there is pain and stiffness on one side of the back. Pain is tearing or shooting in nature. Lastly, it is indicated when there is pain from head to the neck.

Key Indicating Features

Pain and stiffness in the neck

Stiffness of neck from exposure to cold

Stiffness in one side of the neck usually left side, radiating to the lower back

Contractive type or stitching type of pain between the scapulae

2. Limbs (Joint Pain, Muscle Pain, Bone Pain, Growing Pains)

If we talk of limbs, this medicine is mainly used to treat joint complaints. It is mostly helpful when there is pain and swelling in the joints and when joints cannot bear heat. Intense stiffness is also there in the joints. Pain can be felt in the wrist, shoulders, elbow, ankles, arms and hands. In case of wrist, pain mostly occurs on the left side. Pain is felt in the shoulder or elbow that extends to the wrist. The ankle pain may radiate up to the leg. In some cases, joint deformity may be present. Its use is also suggested for gout (joint inflammation from increased uric acid level) cases with tearing and stitching pain in the limbs along with contracted sensation. Mainly knee joint is inflamed from gout attended with intense pain. Other than joints, it is well-indicated for managing muscle pain. Guaiacum is recommended when there occurs tearing or pricking pain in the muscles of limbs accompanied by heat. It can effectively handle thigh pain, especially pain in the middle of the thigh that radiates to the knees. The thigh muscles feel tense as if they are shortened. This medicine can be given to manage bone pain as well that occurs in the legs accompanied by swollen sensation. Other than the above, it is also a preferred medicine for growing pains (cramping or aching pain in child’s leg, front of thigh, calf muscle or back of knee that occur in evening or at night).

Key Indicating Features

Painful, stiff, swollen joints that cannot bear heat

Gout with tearing and stitching pain in limbs and contracted sensation

Growing pains in children

3. Head (Headache)

With its action on head, it can help to relieve headache. The most important symptom guiding its use is pain in the head and face extending to neck. It is also given for pulsating, throbbing pain in the head. Persons needing it feel headache while sitting and standing. They feel better by walking and applying pressure. Some persons needing it complain of one-sided pain in the head which is particularly tearing type.

Key Indicating Features

Pain in the head and face extending to neck

Headache worse when sitting and standing

Headache better by walking and pressure

4. Lungs (Pleurisy, Cough)

In case of lungs, Guaiacum shows its main action to manage cases of pleurisy. Pleurisy refers to inflammation of the pleura which is a tissue that lines the lungs and the chest wall. It is mainly effective to manage stitching pain in the chest due to pleurisy. The pain gets worse from deep breathing. Its use is further done in cases of cough when it is dry, tight cough. After coughing, there is offensive breath. Cough can be attended with difficulty in breathing. Lastly, it can be used when there is expectoration of fetid pus with cough.

Key Indicating Features

Stitching type of chest pain worse from deep breathing in pleurisy

Cough with expectoration of fetid pus

5. Throat Complaints (Tonsillitis)

By acting on throat, it shows good results in tonsillitis cases. The right-sided tonsil is mainly inflamed, swollen, and dark red. There is swelling, dryness and burning sensation in the throat. The throat is painful to touch. Stitching pain is felt in the throat radiating to ears on swallowing.

Key Indicating Features

Tonsillitis when right-sided tonsil is inflamed, swollen, dark red

Swollen, dry throat with burning sensation

Stitching pain in throat radiating to ears on swallowing

6. Gastric Issues (Gas, Pain, Diarrhea, Constipation, Inguinal Hernia)

This medicine lastly acts well on the gastric system and rectifies certain gastric issues effectively. It can help in cases of gas and distension of abdomen. Pinching pain is felt in abdomen from obstruction of gas. The stomach feels constricted and can be attended with cough and problem in breathing. Burning sensation in the stomach can occur. Sometimes cramping pain is felt in stomach. In some cases needing it, watery mucus is vomited. It is followed by weakness. It can also treat cases of diarrhea as well as constipation. In case of diarrhea, loose stool occurs in the morning attended by chill. It can be given when there is thin stool with mucus passage. For constipation, it is effective when stool is hard, crumbling and has a very offensive smell. Besides, it is also well indicated for cases of inguinal hernia (bulging of abdomen contents like intestine through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near groin area).

Key Indicating Features

Gas, distension of abdomen with pinching pain from obstructed gas

Vomiting of watery mucus

Constipation with hard, crumbling stool having a very offensive smell

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from heat, touch, motion, exertion and in cold, wet weather

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from external pressure and cold applications

Dosage

This medicine gives good results in both low and high potency. If used in low potency, one can repeat it frequently. But in high potencies it should not be repeated often.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Nux Vomica

It antidotes: Causticum and Rhus Tox

Followed well by: Calcarea Carb and Merc Sol

 

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Dulcamara: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 7 Comments

The remedy Dulcamara is derived from the plant ‘woody nightshade’ also known as ‘bitter-sweet’ that belongs to family Solanaceae. It is prepared by potentization (a process to prepare homeopathic medicines that arouses medicinal properties of a crude substance) from fresh green stems and leaves of this plant gathered just before flowering. It is a magnificent medicine to manage nasal problems predominantly for managing stuffy nose and various skin complaints mainly urticarial and warts.

The ‘Dulcamara’ Constitution

This medicine is well suited to people having irritable and restless nature who are very sensitive to cold and damp weather conditions.  They are prone to get infected by cold easily from exposure to cold damp environment or weather. Persons who suffer from health complaints as a result of living or working in damp, cold environment are ideal subjects for using this medicine.

Drug Action

This medicine has vast action on different body parts among which it manifests its chief action on nose, skin and joints. Other than these, its action is also seen on face, throat, glands, mucous membranes, muscle tissues, gastric system, neck, back, and female genitals. The most peculiar action of this medicine is to treat complaints arising from cold and damp, rainy, wet weather and also when days are hot and nights are cold towards the end of summer.

Clinical Indications

Nasal stuffiness, colds, nasal allergy, urticaria, warts, herpes, skin eruptions, hard swollen glands, itching, cough, asthma, joint pain, facial pain, tinea capitis (fungal infection of scalp), diarrhea, back pain, neck stiffness.

 Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

 1. Nose (Stuffy Nose, Cold, Nasal Allergy)

It proves to be effective in managing numerous nasal problems. It is one of the best medicines for managing nasal stuffiness that causes trouble in breathing through nose. It is most helpful when the nasal blockage worsens in cold rainy weather / from exposure to cold air. Second main indication where it is beneficial is if one is suffering from cold with thick yellow nasal discharge. There can be bloody crusty nasal discharge too. It suits well new-borns suffering from cold. Hay fever or nasal allergy can also be well managed with this medicine. For using it, constant sneezing and watery nasal discharge that aggravates in open air is a guiding feature. Copious eye discharge can attend. Sensitivity to newly mown (trimmed) grass is an important feature that can be present in persons needing it.

Key Indicating Features

Stuffy nose from cold exposure and in cold rainy weather

Cold with thick yellow or bloody crusty nasal discharge

Hay fever with constant sneezing, watery nasal discharge worse in open air

2. Skin (Urticaria, Warts, Itching, Eruptions, Eczema)

Dulcamara has extensive action on skin where it helps to rectify a number of complaints. The most important skin issue where it helps is urticaria which refers to red, itchy bumps (wheals) on the skin from an allergic reaction. For this complaint, it is selected when urticaria worsens from exposure to cold. Red spots appear on the skin, mostly on the entire body that is accompanied by intense itching. A pricking needle-like sensation is also felt. This medicine also offers benefits in cases of warts (small, painless bumps on skin caused by human papillomavirus). Large and smooth textured warts mostly indicate its use. The main location of these warts is on palms of hands and face. Another striking feature to use it is skin itching that increases in cold, wet weather. There can occur skin eruptions that are thick, covered with scales or crusts, sometimes these bleed too when scratched. Skin eruptions around menses especially on face, hands and arms is another peculiar indication for using this remedy. It is useful for eczema cases when eruptions occur on face and limbs. There appear vesicles (fluid-filled skin eruptions) that itch and pus may develop in them. These can get covered with crusts too. It can also be given for managing cases of eczema in infants. Besides these, it can be used for ringworm of scalp and fungal infection of scalp (tinea capitis).

Key Indicating Features

Urticaria from cold exposure

Warts on palms of hands and fingers

Skin itching in cold, wet weather

Skin eruptions on face, hands, arms around menses

3. Limbs And Joints (Joint Pain, Warts, Exostosis, Muscle Pain)

Dulcamara has wide action on limbs and joints. It works well in case of joint pain after exposure to cold or being wet for a relatively long time. The affected part feels as if beaten. The pain worsens if kept still in one position and gets better by moving about. A unique feature that indicates the use of this remedy is joint pain alternating with skin eruptions. It can also be given for cold feet, limb swelling and warts. The feet are icy cold. Swelling of limbs and calf muscles is present. It helps when warts appear on fingers and palms of hands. Apart from these, Dulcamara is indicated for exostosis (extra bony growth on the top of existing bone). It is a prominent medicine to dissolve extra bony outgrowths in arm bones and the upper part of tibia bone present in leg. It can be given for muscle pain and stiffness, attended with soreness. It gets worse from cold exposure.

Key Indicating Features

Joint pain after exposure to cold or wet

Warts on fingers and palms of hands

Muscle pain, soreness and stiffness from cold exposure

4. Face (Facial Pain, Herpes, Warts, Twitchings)

With its action on face, Dulcamara can manage well facial pain, facial neuralgia, skin eruptions, herpes, warts and twitchings. In case of facial pain, it begins around the cheeks and then radiates to eyes, ears and jaw. Pain increase from even little exposure to cold. External warmth reduces pain. It can be given for warts and herpes on the face. Herpetic eruptions (cold sores) appear on lips or around the lips. Skin eruptions appear on the face, especially on the cheeks. The bumps are thick that may be covered with brown yellow crust. Its use is also recommended for lip twitching that occurs in cold air.

Key Indicating Features

Facial pain that worsens from exposure to cold

Herpes eruptions on lips or around the lips

Warts on face

Lip twitching in cold air

5. Throat And Cough (Tonsillitis, Cough, Asthma)

Use of this medicine is also recommended for certain throat issues and cough. The foremost symptom pointing towards its use is tonsillitis from change of weather. It is primarily indicated for cough that worsens in cold, wet weather, and winter. The cough may be dry or lose rattling type. Cough may occur from tickling in the back of the throat. Tough green expectoration comes out. Cough worsening from physical exertion is also an important symptom to use Dulcamara. This medicine is very useful to manage cough in elderly people and in infants. It also proves to be effective in treating asthma that gets worse during wet weather with loose rattling cough with excessive phlegm expectoration, and difficulty in breathing.

Key Indicating Features

Tonsillitis from change of weather

Cough worse in cold, wet weather, winters and from physical exertion

Asthma worsens during wet weather

6. Neck And Back (Lower Back Pain, Neck Pain)

Dulcamara is of great value to manage back and neck complaints. It is beneficial to manage lower back pain. It worsens in damp, cold weather. Heat is felt in the back. It is used for neck pain and stiffness. The stiffness extends to shoulders which increases after getting cold or wet.

Key Indicating Features

Lower back pain in damp, cold weather

Neck pain and stiffness after getting cold and wet

7. Gastric Complaints (Stomach Pain, Diarrhea)

When it comes to gastric issues, Dulcamara is beneficial to manage stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. It helps to alleviate cutting type of pain felt in the navel region. Green, slimy stool follows pain. Vomiting is of green, yellow slimy matter or white thick mucus. It is prescribed when diarrhea mainly occurs during damp cold weather. The stool is watery, green, slimy, sour smelling. It may have undigested food particles.

Key Indicating Symptoms

Cutting pain in navel region followed by green, slimy stool

Diarrhea in damp, cold weather

8. Female Problems (Genital Herpes, Skin Rash, Suppressed Menses)

This medicine is also known to be helpful in managing some female problems. Dulcamara can help to heal genital herpes. There are eruptions on vulva in cases needing it. These get worse in cold and damp surroundings. Another notable symptom to use it is skin rash that appears specifically before menses. Not only this, it can also be given for suppressed menses in cold and damp weather and when menses are delayed and of too short duration.

Key Indicating Features

Genital herpes when eruptions get worse in cold and damp weather

Skin rash before menses

Suppresses menses from cold and dampness

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from cold, damp, rainy weather, sudden temperature change, from getting chilled while heated, when days are hot and nights are cold, from taking cold drinks or ice creams and at night.

Relieving factors: Complaints get better in dry weather, by external warmth and moving about

Dosage

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. One can repeat this medicine in low potencies frequently but in high potency, frequent repetition should be avoided.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Camphor, Cuprum Met, Ipecac, Kali Carb and Merc Sol

Followed well by Belladonna, Calcarea Carb, Lycopodium, Rhus Tox and Sepia

 

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Ammonium Carbonicum: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 4 Comments

The homeopathic remedy Ammonium Carbonicum is derived from carbonate of ammonia. In its crude state, carbonate of ammonia is inert. When it undergoes potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines that extracts medicinal properties from a crude substance), it turns into an important homeopathic medicine Ammonium Carbonicum. It is a very effective medicine for managing nasal blockage, certain female problems and various respiratory issues.

The ‘Ammonium Carbonicum’ Constitution

It suits persons who are obese (fat), who always feel tired and have a tendency to catch cold easily. It is also suitable to persons who are overweight along with a weak heart and a suffocating sensation. Other than this, it suits well children and obese women having a sedentary life.

Drug Action

This medicine acts well on the nose, female genitals and the respiratory system. Its action is marked on the limbs and the gastric system.

Clinical Indications

Nose disorders, blocked nose, nose bleeding (epistaxis), heavy periods, obesity, hemorrhages, emphysema, pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma, cough, colic, constipation, piles, heart weakness

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Nasal Complaints (Blocked Nose, Nasal Bleeding And Ozaena)

This medicine is of great service to manage nasal blockage. There is marked difficulty in breathing through the nose resulting in mouth breathing. It is a prominent medicine for managing nasal blockage in children. In some cases needing it, there is cold with profuse watery discharge from the nose. The discharge causes burning in the nose. Along with this, there is a constant urge to sneeze. Another top-listed complaint where its use is highly suggested is nose bleeding. The peculiar feature to use it is bleeding from the nose when washing hands or face in the morning. Lastly, it is well indicated for ozaena cases. Ozaena, also known as atrophic rhinitis, refers to chronic nasal condition characterized by atrophy (shrinkage) of the nasal mucus lining and the underneath bone. For ozaena, its use is indicated when blood-stained mucus discharge occurs from the nose.

Key Indicating Features

Nasal blockage with marked difficulty to breathe through nose

Nose bleeding when washing hands or face in the morning

Ozaena with bloody mucus discharge from the nose

2. Female Problems (Heavy Periods, Leucorrhoea)

Ammonium Carbonicum has a prominent action on the female genitals. Here it is well-indicated to manage heavy periods. Females needing it also tend to get early periods with black, clotted bleeding. It is attended with colicky pain. There also occurs hard and difficult stool. Other symptoms that tend to occur during menses are sadness, weakness, fatigue and chill. This medicine can manage leucorrhoea (vaginal discharge) well. It works well for cases having copious, watery burning vaginal discharge. A very striking feature for its use is diarrhea (loose stool) at the beginning of menses.

Key Indicating Features

Heavy, early periods with black, clotted bleeding, colicky pains, weakness and hard, difficult stool

Copious, watery, burning vaginal discharge

Loose stool at the beginning of menses

3. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Bronchitis, Emphysema, Asthma And Pneumonia)

Ammonium Carb works well on respiratory organs. Here it is well indicated to manage cough, bronchitis, emphysema, asthma and pneumonia. For cough the major indication is dry cough caused by tickling in the throat as from dust or a feather in the throat. Cough occurs at night and in the morning, particularly at about 3:00 am. Its use is also recommended for cough with blood spitting. It can be given in cases of bronchitis (inflamed lining of bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs) in aged people. Here it is used when there is thin, foamy sputa with rattling of bubbles in chest. Ammonium Carb is considered one of the best homeopathic medicines for managing cases of emphysema (lung condition in which damage to air sacs occurs causing shortness of breath). The main indication is difficulty in breathing from exertion or walking or ascending even a few steps. It gets better in cool air. In asthma cases, it can be given when there is asthmatic cough with painful, contracted feeling in the chest. Asthma gets worse in the evening in bed and from exertion. Lastly, it is indicated for the management of pneumonia (infection and inflammation of air sacs of lungs). It is used mainly when pneumonia is accompanied by marked weakness.

Key Indicating Features

Dry cough from tickling in the throat as from dust or a feather in the throat

Bronchitis in aged people with thin, foamy sputa with rattling of bubbles in chest

Difficulty in breathing from exertion, walking or ascending even a few steps

Asthma gets worse in the evening in bed and from exertion

Pneumonia with marked weakness

4. Limbs (Joint Pain, Heel Pain, Panaritium And Felon)

With its action on the limbs, it is useful to manage joint pains. The striking feature for its use is tearing type of pain in joints which gets better by the heat of bed with an inclination to stretch limbs. It can be given in cases of hip joint pain felt while walking. Ammonium Carb can be used in knee pain cases as well. The pain in knee can be drawing or boring type in cases needing it. Pain can be present in wrist joint, fingers, thumbs and ankles where it is required. Elbow joints crackle when moved. Ammonium Carb is helpful in relieving heel pain. The chief indication is heel pain when one wakes up in the morning, while standing and from prolonged walking. Its use is considered for cases of pain, swelling, redness and heat in the big toe specifically in the bed in evening. Besides, it is preferred for cases of panaritium (infected or inflamed tissue near a fingernail) with deep seated pain. It is used for cases of felon (bacterial infection of fingertip causing enclosed pocket of pus with pain) too in the initial stage.

Felon

Felon

Key Indicating Features

Tearing pain in joints better by heat of bed with inclination to stretch limbs

Heel pain when awaking in morning, when standing and from prolonged walking

Pain, swelling, redness and heat in big toe specifically in bed in evening

Panaritium with deep seated pain

Felon in initial stage

5. Gastric Issues (Constipation, Stomach Pain, Piles)

By acting on the gastric system, it helps to settle complaints including constipation, stomach pain and piles. In constipation, Ammonium Carb is helpful when there is dry, hard, difficult stool. It is attended by headache. It helps to manage stomach pain which occurs along with nausea and chill. It gets better on lying down and by applying pressure. Other than these, it can handle cases of piles (enlarged, swollen, inflamed veins in anus or lower rectum). The most notable feature is protrusion of piles after stool with long-lasting pain with inability to walk. It gets better on lying down.

Key Indicating Features

Constipation with dry, hard, difficult stool attended with headache

Stomach pain with nausea and chilliness, better from lying down and from pressure

Piles that protrude after stool with pain and inability to walk

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse in cold damp, wet weather, on cold and cloudy days, during menses, from motion, during full moon and washing

Relieving factors: Complaints get better in dry weather, lying on painful side and from pressure

Dosage

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. One can repeat low potencies frequently but high potencies should not be repeated often.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Arnica, Camphor and Hepar Sulph

Followed well by: Belladonna, Bryonia, Lycopodium, Phosphorus, Sepia, Rhus Tox, Sulphur and Veratrum Album

 

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Chronic Fatigue And Extreme Tiredness Making Life Miserable ? Try Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 212 Comments

Homeopathic remedies for chronic fatigue syndrome

 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), as the name suggests, refers to a constant feeling of being tired physically and mentally, almost like the body’s vital systems are switched off or are working on a low battery. It is also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis. Recently, a new term has been introduced to denote this syndrome called Systemic Exertional Intolerance Disease (SEID). It is diagnosed when extreme tiredness remains for a minimum six months that decreases the ability to do daily routine activities and is unexplained by any underlying medical condition.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can be very effectively treated with natural homeopathic remedies. Homeopathic medicines help the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome patients by increasing their body stamina and threshold for bearing fatigue against a particular level of exertion. They also help in energising the body’s immune system to come out of extreme physical or mental weakness and rejuvenate the person. Homeopathic medicines provide long term relief in CFS cases by working at a deep level to root out the cause. The regular use of homeopathic medicines for a recommended time period as suggested by a homeopath can help in reducing dependency on conventional medicines to a great extent.

Safe, Natural treatment

Homeopathy is a safe, natural healing system of medicine that treats CFS without any sort of unwanted harmful after effects. As homeopathic medicines are sourced from natural substances these are completely safe to use with zero side effects. These are capable of treating CFS in a very gentle, harmless way and help in recovering naturally.

Individualized treatment

Homeopathy follows the principle of individualisation when it comes to prescribing homeopathic medicine for any case including CFS. It means that homeopathy selects the most appropriate remedy by evaluating the characteristic key symptoms in every individual case rather than prescribing the same medicine in all persons having CFS. Such well-selected individualised medicines bring great recoveries in CFS cases.

Boosts self-healing mechanism of the body

Each one of us has a self-healing mechanism in the body to fight health issues and overpower them. Homeopathy works to boost this mechanism to deal with CFS and overcome it on its own naturally. In this way, initially the symptoms of CFS are relieved followed by gradual decrease in the intensity and frequency of recurrent episodes of symptoms till the time it goes away completely.

Top 7 Homeopathic Remedies For Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The top seven medicines for chronic fatigue syndrome are Kali Phos, Arsenic Album, Coffea Cruda, Gelsemium, Rhus Tox, Belladonna and Ignatia.

1. Kali Phos – Top Remedy For CFS

Kali Phos leads the chart of homeopathic medicines for treating cases of CFS. It is recommended to manage multiple concerns in persons having this syndrome. To begin with, it is a marvellous medicine to manage fatigue. It can be given when even the slightest mental or physical exertion leads to extreme fatigue. Even a little work seems like a Herculean task. The person feels worn out with no energy at all. Secondly, it can be given to manage sleep issues. It is very effective in managing sleeplessness and restless sleep. Its use is indicated to manage weak memory, forgetfulness, and impaired memory. Forgetfulness is noticeable while speaking or writing. Lastly, it can be used for persons having a stressed mind, worries, sadness, and depression.

When to use Kali Phos?

Kali Phos can be used as a first remedy in CFS cases to manage tiredness, sleep issues, memory problems, and depressive feelings.

How to use Kali Phos?

Though Kali Phos can be used in different potencies, the best results have been witnessed from 6X potency that comes in tablet form. Kali Phos can be taken in 6X potency three to four times a day (4 tablets at a time makes one dose of this medicine for adults).

2. Arsenic Album – For Extreme Tiredness

Arsenic Album is highly effective to manage extreme tiredness. It suits those who feel like lying down all the time due to excessive fatigue. Even a little exertion leads to utmost lack of strength and weakness. Standing, walking and the slightest exertion result in fatigue. Such persons also hesitate to do anything due to fear of exertion because they anticipate exhaustion. Apart from disabling fatigue, Arsenic Album can also treat anxiety.

When to use Arsenic Album?

Arsenic Album is an ideal choice to manage extreme tiredness in cases of CFS from the slightest exertion with a desire to lie down all time

How to use Arsenic Album?

It is available in different potencies varying from low (like 30C) to high (like 200C, 1M). To begin with, it is advised to take this medicine in 30C potency once or twice a day. Kindly consult a homeopathic doctor to use its high potencies.

3. Coffea Cruda – For Sleep Issues

Coffea Cruda is a natural medicine to manage sleep issues. It is a top remedy to manage sleeplessness. Persons needing it have a lot of thoughts and ideas in mind at night that keep them awake. It is also indicated for restless sleep and frequent waking from sleep. Its use is also considered when a person can sleep only specifically till 3:00 am after which no sleep occurs.

When to use Coffea Cruda?

Coffea Cruda can be used in CFS cases to deal with issues of sleeplessness and restless sleep.

How to use Coffea Cruda?

This medicine works wonders in 30C potency. Coffea Cruda 30C can be taken two times a day.

4. Gelsemium – For Weakness, Dizziness, Muscle Pain, Poor Concentration

Gelsemium is a herbal medicine to manage weakness and dizziness. Persons needing Gelsemium have marked weakness and sleepiness throughout the day. Heaviness in the head may also be felt. Dizziness and vertigo are also marked. It gets worse when walking and from head movement. Muscle weakness and pain also show their impact on them. The muscle pain is mostly present in the neck, shoulders, back, hips and legs. The patient may also experience trembling and weakness in limbs. Besides the above indications, it is also useful when there is dullness of mind and poor concentration.

When to use Gelsemium?

This medicine proves effective for those having weakness, dizziness, muscle pain and concentration issues.

How to use Gelsemium?

Its use is usually recommended in 30C power that can be taken twice a day.

5. Rhus Tox – For Muscle Or Joint Pain

Rhus Tox is the most widely used homeopathic medicine for muscle or joint pain. It is usually the first choice of medicine of most physicians to manage muscle or joint pain. The key indication for its use is worsening of pains from rest and relief from movement. There may also occur relief in joint pain from massage or warm applications.

When to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox can be given in cases having muscle or joint pains anywhere in the body that gets worse from movement and better from rest.

How to use Rhus Tox?

This medicine can be used in different potencies like 30C, 200C, 1M. In the beginning, Rhus Tox 30C can be used two to three times a day. When pain decreases, its dosage can be reduced. Do not self-medicate with its high potencies like 200C, 1M.

6. Belladonna – To Manage Headaches

To treat headaches though there are numerous medicines in homeopathy, but Belladonna tops the list. It is the most commonly used medicine for headache. In most cases that need it, headache is throbbing, pulsating type. It may get worse from noise and light exposure. Binding the head tightly brings relief.

When to use Belladonna?

The use of Belladonna should be preferred in CFS cases to manage headache, especially when it gets worse from noise and light exposure.

How to use Belladonna?

It is usually used in 30C potency. This medicine can be taken in 30C potency two to three times a day as per the severity of the complaint.

7. Ignatia – For Managing Depression

Ignatia is a prominent natural homeopathic remedy to deal with depression in chronic fatigue syndrome. It is best suited when there is sadness along with weeping spells. Consolation worsens the complaint. Next, there may be a desire to remain alone and, aversion to meeting people and going out of the house. At times, there are mood swings.

When to use Ignatia?

This medicine can be given to persons who feel sad and depressed with frequent weeping episodes in cases of CFS.

How to use Ignatia?

This medicine can be taken in 30C potency once or twice a day.

What Are The Symptoms Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

1. Fatigue: It is the main symptom. Fatigue is marked to such an extent that it hinders daily routine work and taking resting does not bring much relief. It gets worse from activity, either physical or mental.

2. Sleep issues: Sleeplessness or unrefreshing sleep

3. Pain: Pain may occur in muscles or joints. Headache can also occur

4. Poor memory, difficultythinking, indecisiveness, confusion or poor and difficult concentrating power

5. Sore throat

6. Depressed feelings and mood swings

7. Dizziness

8. Enlarged lymph nodes in neck or axillae (armpits)

What Are Causes/ Contributory Factors Behind It?

The exact cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not clear, but various factors have been linked to it though not confirmed. These contributory factors include:

1. Viral infection (Epstein Barr virus, herpes simplex virus1 and 2, human herpes virus 6, measles virus, cytomegalovirus)

2. Dysfunction of immune system

3. Genetic predisposition toward Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

4. Hormonal imbalance: Imbalance of hormones produced by pituitary glands, adrenal glands is suspected

5. Stress: It may include either mental stress or physical stress as caused by some injury or surgery

Complications

Some complications of CFS include depression, anxiety, social isolation and restricted lifestyle.

 

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Homeopathic Treatment for Trigger Finger

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 136 Comments

What is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition affecting the tendons of the hand. It is a painful condition in which the fingers or thumb get locked in a bending position. There is difficulty in straightening the affected finger. Clicking or popping sound is heard on straightening the finger. Trigger finger can appear in one finger or may involve many fingers at a time.

Though commonly affecting the right hand, it can affect both hands as well. Trigger finger makes a person anxious and frustrated since it interferes with daily life and work. It affects the efficiency of a person adversely, especially while performing tasks to be done with the hands.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic treatment for trigger finger is very effective. With the use of homeopathic medicines, the intensity of symptoms like pain, stiffness, and frequency of episodes gradually declines.

To treat any case of trigger finger, case details of characteristic symptoms of the person are required to find the underlying cause. The symptoms are important for the selection of the most suitable medicine for the patient. Homeopathic medicines treat trigger finger by correcting the underlying cause –inflamed, thick tendon sheath in most cases. Homeopathic treatment for trigger finger is natural, safe, and has no side effects. These are recommended for mild to moderate cases of trigger finger. In severe and advanced cases with fixed locking of finger, homeopathy is not helpful and conventional treatment is recommended.

Homeopathic Medicines For Trigger Finger

The top homeopathic medicines for trigger finger are Rhus Tox, Ruta Graveolens, Arnica Montana, Causticum, Merc Sol, and Sulphur.

1. Rhus Tox – Top Grade Medicine

Rhus Tox is a highly recommended medicine for cases of trigger finger. It has magnificent action on tendon and its sheath. Any complaint that arises from overuse or overstraining of tendons can be addressed wonderfully with this medicine. Here overuse or overstraining of tendons of fingers is the root cause behind trigger finger for which Rhus Tox is the leading medicine. In case joint inflammation is associated with trigger finger, there too Rhus Tox is effective. It is helpful in cases of trigger finger where there is noticeable rigidity and stiffness in the fingers during initial movement especially in the morning. Patients needing this homeopathic medicine get relief by moving their fingers and hands continuously. The problem may aggravate by resting the hand.

When and How to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox can be used as a first line of treatment in cases of trigger finger where stiffness is marked in fingers. It will reduce inflammation of tendon, its sheath and reduce stiffness of fingers. It can be used in different potencies from low (30C) to high (200C, 1M) potencies. Initially, Rhus Tox 30C is the most preferred potency that can be taken three to four times a day at a three-hour interval. High potencies are usually not repeated too often and homeopathic physician’s advice is a must.

2. Ruta Graveolens – For Overstrained, Inflamed Tendons And Nodes On Tendons

 

Ruta is a natural medicine prepared from ‘garden rue plant’. It is very effective in treating trigger finger caused by overstrained or inflamed tendons of the hands. Additionally, nodes get formed on the tendons. The fingers get contracted. Tearing or drawing pain is felt in the fingers and hands.

When and How to use Ruta Graveolans?

Ruta can be used in case of pain in fingers and hands where tendons are inflamed along with node formation from over-straining. Though it can be used in varying potencies, the most frequently used potency is 30C which can be taken two to three times a day.

3. Arnica – For Complaint From Overstraining Or Overexertion Of Hands

Arnica is similar in action to the above two medicines. It is well-indicated when trigger finger develops due to over-straining or overexertion of the hands. The patient needing it has soreness and pain in the fingers that gets worse with the slightest touch.

When and How to use Arnica?

When this condition arises from overstraining of hands along with pain and soreness of hands, Arnica can be used. It gives excellent results in 30C potency. Arnica 30C can be taken two to three times a day as per severity of pain.

4. Causticum – For Stiff Fingers With Difficulty In Moving Them

Causticum is a very useful medicine for cases having marked stiffness of fingers. The fingers get bent over the palmar side with difficulty in moving them. These can only be moved with the help of the other hand. Tendons of fingers get contracted and hardened from long-term inflammation.

When and How to use Causticum?

Consider this medicine’s use when fingers are stiff and bent from contracted and hard tendons. 30C is the right potency to use in beginning. Causticum 30C can be taken once or twice a day as per the intensity of complaint.

5. Merc Sol – When There Is Locking Of Fingers / Thumb

Merc Sol is valuable for cases of trigger finger where there is locking of fingers or thumb. The fingers/thumb may be completely bent on the palms. There is excessive struggle to open the locked fingers without assistance from the other hand. Besides, there is stiffness in hands while using them. On moving the hands, fingers make a cracking sound.

When and How to use Merc Sol?

Merc Sol can be used when there is the tendency of fingers or thumb to be completely bent on the palm and get locked there. This medicine will gradually help to reduce frequency and intensity of such episodes though it may not help much in unlocking if the fingers are acutely bent. It can be taken in 30C potency twice a day for good results.

6. Sulphur – For Locked Fingers When Grasping Something

Sulphur can be considered in cases where the fingers lock when the person tries to grasp something. There may also be nodules on the fingers and cracking of finger joints in such cases. A tearing pain may be felt in the hands. Burning sensation in palms may attend.

When and How to use Sulphur?

When there is tendency to get locked fingers on grasping some object, Sulphur can be considered. Sulphur 30C once a day can be taken to reduce such tendency. In case no changes occur, higher potencies can be used after consulting a homeopath.

What Are The Causes Of Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger is caused by irritation, inflammation, scarring and thickening of tendon sheath of the fingers and thumb. Tendons are the strong tissue bands that link muscles to the bones. There is a covering on the tendon called the sheath. In normal conditions, there is smooth movement of the tendon within the sheath while bending and straightening the thumb and fingers. In cases of trigger finger, the space between the tendons and its sheaths becomes narrow due to inflammation or thickening of tendons or sheath of the affected fingers or thumb. This narrowing leads to pain and restricts the movement of fingers.

What Are The Risk Factors For Trigger Finger?

1. Overuse of hands with frequent and repetitive movement of hands and fingers puts a person at risk of getting trigger finger. Individuals who carry out regular or continuous straining movements, like gripping something for a prolonged time are prone to getting trigger finger. Persons in certain occupations or activities in which there is a constant straining of the fingers and hands tend to suffer from trigger finger. Musicians, farmers, and laborers are at high risk of developing trigger finger.

2. Apart from overuse, medical conditions like diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of joints) and gout (inflamed joints from high uric acid levels) also make a person prone to trigger finger.

3. Age: Persons between 40-60 yrs of age at risk

4. Sex: Females are more likely to suffer from trigger finger than males

5. Surgery of carpal tunnel syndrome (numbness and tingling in fingers from pressure on median nerve)

What Are The Symptoms Of Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger can affect any finger or thumb, and either hand can be affected. It can affect multiple fingers at the same time.

1. Mild stiffness or tenderness at the base of the thumb or affected fingers. It is the initial symptom. The stiffness is more in the morning or when the person initiates movement. In some cases, the patient may get relief by continuous movement of the fingers.

2. Pain at the base of the affected finger/ thumb. It is felt on movement or applying pressure. With the progression of the condition, pain may be felt even when the hand is at rest.

3. Affected fingers get locked on bending as the disease progresses and the person finds it difficult to straighten locked fingers.

4. Popping or clicking sound on moving or straightening the affected finger.

5. Locking of finger in the bent position which the person may have to unlock with the help of the other hand in advanced cases. At times there is inability to straighten the finger.

6. Formation of nodosities at the base of the affected fingers in palms.

Grading of Trigger Finger

Grade 1: Only pain and tenderness in palm or fingers; there may be a history of bent finger

Grade 2: There is catching (bending) of finger but can be actively extended

Grade 3: Unlocking of finger requiring passive extension (using the other hand to unlock)

Grade 4: Fixed locking of finger

 

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