Search Results for: phlegm

7 Best Homeopathic Medicines for Phlegm in the Throat

Mucus produced by the lining of the throat and respiratory system and discharged through the mouth is called phlegm. Some mucus production by respiratory system is entirely normal that helps in lubrication and filtering the irritants that enter airways. But excessive mucus production can happen from many reasons. To start with common cold, nasal allergies, sinusitis (inflammation of paranasal sinuses i.e. air-filled spaces in bones around the nose), postnasal drip (dripping of mucus from back of nose into the throat), tonsillitis (inflammation of tonsils), and laryngitis (inflamed voice box) are some causes behind phlegm in throat. Lung diseases like bronchitis (inflamed bronchial tubes that carry air to and from lungs) and pneumonia (infection in air sacs of lungs) may be some of the other reasons. Some other causes are acid reflux (back flow of stomach acid in food pipe), overuse of voice, milk intake and cigarette smoking. The colour of the phlegm coughed up as sputa varies from white to yellow to green. In some cases, it may also be blood-stained.

The problem of phlegm in throat can be dealt magnificently in the homeopathic system of medicine. Homeopathic medicines act as natural and effective expectorants to cough out phlegm from the airways. These medicines make the phlegm thin and help it loosen to aid easy expectoration. They also manage its accompanying symptoms side by side. Homeopathic medicines never suppress the phlegm in the throat rather, they promote its expulsion to give complete recovery.

Homeopathy addresses root cause
Homeopathy helps to clear out the excessive phlegm from the throat by treating the reason causing it. As there are various causes for phlegm in the throat, homeopathic remedies are aimed at targeting that root cause for effective cure. Various causes like cold, allergies, sinusitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis, bronchitis and acid reflux can be treated wonderfully with homeopathy. To get the best results, treatment should be taken from a homeopathic expert and self-medication should be avoided. However, in serious causes like pneumonia, it is recommended to take help from conventional mode of treatment as homeopathy has limitations in helping serious cases.

Customised medication
Homeopathic medicines for phlegm in the throat are always selected individually. The nature of phlegm, its cause, and other symptoms need to be dealt with together when deciding on the homeopathic medicine to be used. Using the accurately selected homeopathy medicine for phlegm in the throat can cure even the most chronic and rigid cases. A complete course of treatment for prescribed duration of time needs to be done to get the best results.

Safe medicines
Homeopathy uses gentle, herbal medicines for treating phlegm in the throat which are totally safe to use. They never cause side effects in any case due to their natural ingredients.

7 Best Homeopathic Medicines for Phlegm in the Throat

Among the extremely effective homeopathic medicines for getting rid of phlegm in the throat are Kali Bichrome, Kali Mur, Silicea, Pulsatilla, Hepar Sulph, Natrum Mur and Argentum Nitricum.

1. Kali Bichrome – For thick, sticky Phlegm In the Throat

Kali Bichrome leads the list of homeopathic medicines for treating phlegm in the throat in cases where the phlegm is thick and sticky. It adheres to the throat and detaches with much difficulty. The throat is also red and inflamed. Cough may arise from sticky phlegm in the throat. Relaxation of the uvula is also a possibility. Kali Bichrome is an excellent treatment for cases of phlegm in the throat caused by sinusitis. In such situations, a post nasal drip of mucus in the throat is the most prominent symptom.
When to use Kali Bichrome?
Kali Bichrome is a top medicine to manage phlegm in throat with very thick and sticky phlegm.
How to use Kali Bichrome?
It can be used in low as well as high potencies. Initially it is advised to use it in 30C potency one to two times a day.

2. Kali Mur – For Whitish Phlegm Coughed From Throat

Kali Mur is useful in cases where the phlegm coughed up is white in colour. The phlegm is thick and can be as white as milk. The phlegm has a bad smell and taste. Sensation of coldness is felt in the throat.
When to use Kali Mur?
Kali Mur is of great help to manage white coloured phlegm having bad smell and taste being hawked out from throat.
How to use Kali Mur?
It is usually prescribed in 6X potency that can be used three to four times a day.

3. Silicea– For phlegm throat yellowish in colour

Silicea is an effective medicine for cases having yellowish phlegm expulsion. The phlegm is excessive, lumpy and smells offensive. A burning feeling is felt in the throat. The voice is hoarse and husky along with pain in the throat while swallowing.
When to use Silicea?
Its use should be considered when yellow coloured, lumpy phlegm is expectorated.
How to use Silicea?
Among its different available potencies 6X is mainly preferred. Silicea 6X can be taken two to three times a day.

4. Pulsatilla – For Greenish Phlegm In Throat

Pulsatilla is a well-indicated homeopathic medicine to manage cases of phlegm when it is greenish in colour. The phlegm may be salty, sweet or bitter to taste. It is accompanied with cough which is worse in the morning. There is a constricted feeling in throat as well.
When to use Pulsatilla?
It is the best choice of medicine to manage greenish phlegm in throat.
How to use Pulsatilla?
It can be used once or twice a day in 30 C potency but for high potency, kindly consult a homeopathic doctor.

5. Hepar Sulph – For Phlegm In Throat With Cough

Hepar Sulph is an excellent remedy in cases where the phlegm in the throat is accompanied with cough. The phlegm is yellowish in most of the cases. A sensation of plug or a splinter (a tiny sharp piece of glass or wood) is well marked in the throat.
When to use Hepar Sulph?
This medicine is helpful to manage phlegm along with marked coughing.
How to use Hepar Sulph?
This medicine can be used in 30C potency one to two times a day.

6. Natrum Mur – For Bitter Or Salty Phlegm Expectoration

Natrum Mur is a useful medicine when there is expectoration of bitter or salty phlegm. There is difficulty swallowing solid food. The voice is hoarse in the morning. Soreness is felt in the throat with a sensation of swallowing over a lump.
When to use Natrum Mur?
It is a prominent medicine to manage cases of phlegm in the throat when phlegm is bitter or salty.
How to use Natrum Mur?
It is recommended to take this medicine twice or thrice daily in 6X power.

7. Argentum Nitricum – For Phlegm With Marked Hawking

Argentum Nitricum is one of the most effective treatment for phlegm in the throat. It gives great results for phlegm in throat accompanied by intense hawking. The mucus in the throat is thick, and there is rawness and roughness in the throat. Splinter-like sensation in the throat may also be present. Other symptoms are a burning feeling and dryness in the throat and the fauces. Argentum Nitricum is also very effective in cases of phlegm in the throat because of smoking.
When to use Argentum Nitricum?
This medicine is highly suitable to manage throat phlegm with marked hawking.
How to use Argentum Nitricum?
It is advised to use this medicine in 30C potency once a day.

Top 11 Homeopathic Remedies For Cough

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 155 Comments

Cough refers to a natural protective reflex action of the body to get rid of dust, mucus, germs (viruses, bacteria) and other irritants that have entered the airway. There are various causes of it, ranging from mild to serious ones.

Homeopathy is a 200-year-old healing science known to treat health issues naturally. Therefore, homeopathic medicines for cough work in a similar manner. Homeopathy uses organic ingredients for treating cough and they are, thus, safe to use. As cough can arise due to various causes, homeopathic medicines aim to treat the underlying cause behind the cough to bring about recovery. Mainstream medicines mainly comprise cough suppressants and antibiotics for treating cough. They provide temporary relief and have side effects as well. However, homeopathic medicines do not cause any adverse effects as they cure the cough rather than simply provide temporary relief.

Homeopathy for All Types of Cough

Homeopathy offers great results in acute as well as chronic cases of cough. Any type of cough, including dry cough, a loose rattling cough, spasmodic cough (violent cough attack ending on vomiting), paroxysmal cough (intermittent, uncontrollable violent cough attacks with breathing difficulty and exhaustion), and nocturnal cough (meaning cough at night), all are wonderfully treated with homeopathy. Also, cough arising from various diseases like asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and pneumonia is treated remarkably well with homeopathy. Along with coughing, the accompanying symptoms like wheezing, expectoration, difficulty in breathing, and shortness of breath are also cured easily by using homeopathic medicines. The results, however, vary depending on the intensity of these symptoms.

Safe and Gentle Treatment

Homeopathy is suitable to manage cough among people of all age groups. The homeopathic medicines reach the core and bring excellent results. The best part of using these medicines is that they do not contain any toxins or chemicals.

Top 11 Homeopathic Medicines for Cough

There is a long list of therapeutics for the treatment of cough. Among them, the top medicines include Bryonia Alba, Antimonium Tartaricum, Spongia Tosta, Drosera Rotundifolia, Hepar Sulphur, Arsenic Album, Ipecacuanha, Corallium Rubrum, Rumex Crispus, Stannum Metallicum and Cina Maritima.

1. Bryonia Alba—For Dry Cough

Bryonia Alba is a very effective medicine to deal with cases of dry cough. The cough aggravates when eating or drinking. The cough is dry and hard; in most cases, it is accompanied by chest pain. Coughing is so heavy that a person has to put their hands on their chest to support it. Another prominent symptom is stabbing pain in the chest, which gets worse on inhaling. The chest pain may get better by lying on the side that presents pain. Coughing may also be accompanied by a headache. In some cases, food gets vomited while coughing.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

Its use is highly suggested to manage dry cough, mostly accompanied by pain in the chest and head while coughing.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

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

2. Antimonium Tartaricum— For Loose and Rattling Cough

Antimonium Tartaricum works very well in cases of a loose, rattling cough. The lungs feel full of mucus. The cough remains constant 24/7. The patient faces excessive difficulty in expelling the phlegm. Besides, breathing becomes difficult, mostly at night, and the person awakens from sleep. In addition to the above symptoms, a burning sensation in the chest may be present. Chest pain on coughing also arises in some cases. A cough that worsens after each meal is yet another characteristic symptom that points towards the use of Antimonium Tart.

When to use Antimonium Tartaricum?

It is the best medicine for managing a loose, rattling cough with difficulty in expectorating the phlegm.

How to use Antimonium Tartaricum?

Though it can be used in both low and high potencies. Initially, 30C potency is the most preferred dose. Antimonium Tart 30C can be taken two to three times a day as per the intensity of the symptom.

3. Spongia Tosta– For Cough with Extreme Dryness of Air Passages

Spongia Tosta is a medicine that is highly useful when there is a cough with extreme dryness of all the air passages. The cough is dry, barking, and hacking. Chills may accompany coughing. Warm drinks may offer a little relief. Along with this, shortness of breath and laboured respiration may also be present.

When to use Spongia Tosta?

This medicine is highly recommended for managing dry coughing with absolute dryness of all the air passages. Coughing gets better with warm drinks.

How to use Spongia Tosta?

It is best to take it in 30C power once or twice daily.

4. Drosera Rotundifolia—For Cough That Aggravates On Lying Down

Drosera Rotundifolia is a very effective homeopathic remedy for coughing that sets off while lying down. Cough is usually a dry, irritating type. Episodes of coughing are felt one after the other. A marked fatigue accompanies coughing episodes. Other accompanying symptoms include tickling in the larynx, a scraping sensation (like in a sore throat), and fetid breath, along with coughing. Bouts of vomiting with coughing may also arise. The coughing usually worsens when talking or laughing.

When to use Drosera Rotundifolia?

This medicine is usually prescribed to manage a cough that aggravates when lying down as soon as the head touches the pillow. Cough is dry and irritative in nature.

How to use Drosera Rotundifolia?

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

5. Hepar Sulphuris — For loose cough with thick, yellow expectoration

Hepar Sulphuris is a very beneficial medicine for managing a loose cough with thick, yellow expectoration. The sputa is sticky. A characteristic feature of using this medicine is that the cough aggravates due to exposure to cold air. On the other hand, warmth relieves the symptoms.

When to use Hepar Sulphuris?

Hepar Sulphuris is used to manage a loose cough with thick, yellow expectoration and also for a cough that gets worse from cold air exposure.

How to use Hepar Sulphuris?

It is advised to use Hepar Sulph 30C twice to thrice daily.

6. Arsenic Album—For Asthmatic Cough

Arsenic Album is an excellent choice of medicine for an asthmatic cough. Arsenic Album should be used for a cough accompanied by shortness of breath and wheezing/whistling in the chest. There is a worsening of the symptoms around midnight. Tightness in the chest may also be felt. There may be sticky expectoration of a yellowish/greenish colour. Another accompanying feature is suffocative attacks during sleep. Anxiety and restlessness may be felt along with the above symptoms.

When to use Arsenic Album?

Its use is recommended to manage asthmatic cough with breathing difficulty and wheezing that gets worse around midnight, along with anxiety and restlessness.

How to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine can be used in 30C potency two to three times a day as per the intensity of the symptom.

7. Ipecacuanha—For Loose Cough with Vomiting

Ipecacuanha is a very suitable medicine for a loose cough accompanied by vomiting. Nausea is also present. There is also a complaint of sticky expectoration (that refuses to come out) with cough. A constricted feeling in the chest and shortness of breath may be felt. Suffocative spells may accompany the cough.

When to use Ipecacuanha?

It works great when a loose cough is accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

How to use Ipecacuanha?

It is usually recommended in a 30C potency that can be taken one to two times daily.

8. Corallium Rubrum—For Cough from PND (post-nasal dripping

Corallium Rubrum is for a cough caused by PND (postnasal drip). The cough comes in short, quick spurts that follow one another. Along with the cough, one has to hawk excessively. Extreme exhaustion is felt along with coughing. A vital symptom that accompanies the above symptoms is extremely sensitive air passages to air (inhaled air feels cold).

When to use Corallium Rubrum?

This medicine proves beneficial for managing cough that appears in quick, short, repetitive attacks arising from post nasal drip.

How to use Corallium Rubrum?

It works well in both low and high potencies. Initially, it is best to take it in 30C potency two to three times a day.

9. Stannum Metallicum– For Paroxysmal Cough with Profound Exhaustion

Stannum Metallicum is administered if there is a deep, exhausting cough and the patient feels extremely weak and is unable to talk. The cough is violent, dry or loose, and comes in consecutive paroxysms of three coughs, often ending in retching. It may suddenly be ejected by laughter, hoarse talking, or singing. It gets worse in the evening until midnight and while lying on the right side. There is marked shortness of breath from the slightest exertion, and the patient may need to loosen clothes while coughing. Expectoration is copious, greenish, sweetish, and most profuse in the morning. The chest feels raw, hollow, sore, and painful, with stitching pains that get worse on breathing.

When to use Stannum Metallicum?

It works well when the cough comes in consecutive three paroxysms and leaves the patient extremely weak and exhausted.

How to use Stannum Metallicum?

It can be administered with 30C potency once a day.

10. Rumex Crispus– For Dry and Tickling Cough, worse from Cold Air

Rumex Crispus is indicated in a dry, teasing, persistent cough caused by a tickling in the throat-pit. The cough is aggravated by talking, pressure, and especially by inspiring cool air, and it gets worse at night, often preventing one from sleeping. There is marked dryness of the nose with copious mucus discharge from the nose and trachea. Expectoration may be thin, watery, and frothy at first, while later it becomes stringy and tough. The person may feel a sensation of a lump in the throat.

When to use Rumex Crispus?

It works wonders when a dry cough starts from the tickling in the throat-pit and it gets worse by inspiring cool air, talking, and at night.

How to use Rumex Crispus?

It can be initiated with a lower potency 30C once a day.

11. Cina Maritima—For Spasmodic and Violent Cough

Cina Maritima is a significant medicine for a spasmodic cough. Cina is helpful when there is a violent cough that ends in vomiting. The cough is so intense that it brings tears and sternal pain; it feels as if something has been torn off (bronchitis). The cough usually appears in paroxysms with accompanying shortness of breath. After coughing, the patient gasps for air and turns pale.

When to use Cina Maritima?

It is an excellent medicine for spasmodic cough, in which a violent cough occurs that ends in vomiting.

How to use Cina Maritima?

One may take Cina Maritima 30C once or twice a day.

What Causes Cough

A cough can happen due to various reasons

1. The first cause can be an infection of the upper respiratory tract, usually a viral infection like a cold or the flu.

2. Further causes include bronchitis, asthma, emphysema and pneumonia. Bronchitis is a condition occurring due to inflamed bronchial tubes. Asthma is a respiratory disease in which narrowing and swelling of airways occur with excessive mucus production, resulting in difficult breathing, chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing. Emphysema is a condition in which the air sacs in the lungs are damaged. Pneumonia refers to a condition in which there is inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs caused by an infection.

3. Smoking may also lead to coughing.

4. Other causes may be allergies or PND (post-nasal drip), in which mucus drips from the back of the nose into the throat.

5. The use of certain medicines, like angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, used to treat high BP and heart disease, may also result in coughing.

6. Acid reflux that irritates the throat can cause coughing, especially chronic dry coughing, that gets worse at night or after meals.

7. Tuberculosis: Chronic Coughing lasting more than 2-3 weeks, especially with weight loss, blood in sputum and evening rise of temperature should be evaluated to rule out Tuberculosis.

8. Rarely, lung cancer could be the cause.

Types of Cough

These are some common types of cough

1. Dry Cough – A cough without mucus production, often irritating and persistent.
2. Wet (Productive) Cough – A cough that produces mucus or phlegm from the chest.
3. Acute Cough – A short-term cough lasting less than 3 weeks, usually due to infection.
4. Subacute Cough – A cough lasting 3 to 8 weeks, often following a respiratory infection.
5. Chronic Cough – A cough lasting more than 8 weeks, commonly linked to asthma, allergies, smoking, or GERD.
6. Allergic Cough – Triggered by allergens like dust, pollen, or animal dander.
7. Smoker’s Cough – A persistent early morning cough seen among people who smoke.
8. Whooping Cough – A severe coughing fit followed by a “whooping” sound while breathing in.
9. Nocturnal Cough – A cough that worsens at night.
10. Paroxysmal Cough – Sudden, intense, uncontrollable coughing spells.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a cough a disease or a symptom?

A cough is usually a symptom, not a disease. It is a protective reflex that helps clear mucus, irritants, or infections from the airways.

2. Does every cough need antibiotics?

No. Most coughs are caused by viral infections, and antibiotics are not effective against viruses.

3. Why does the cough worsen at night?

Cough may worsen at night due to post-nasal drip, asthma, or acid reflux.

4. Is cough contagious?

Cough itself is not contagious, but infections causing cough (like cold or flu) can spread from person to person.

5. What is a habit (psychogenic) cough?

It is a persistent dry cough without an underlying physical cause, often seen among children and disappears during sleep.

6. Can a cough lead to complications?

Severe or prolonged coughing may cause chest pain, vomiting, rib pain, urinary leakage, or disturbed sleep.

7. When are investigations required for a cough?

Tests are advised if the cough lasts more than 3 weeks, is recurrent, severe, or associated with red flag symptoms.

8. Is coughing up blood serious?

Yes, blood in sputum is a red flag and needs urgent medical evaluation.

9. Is coughing always a sign of infection?

No. Cough can also be caused by allergies, asthma, acid reflux, smoking, or environmental irritants.

10. When is a cough dangerous?

Coughing with blood, weight loss, breathlessness, high fever, or lasting more than 3 weeks requires medical attention.

11. What dietary measures should be followed during a cough?

One should avoid cold beverages, refrigerated, fried and spicy foods. Sipping warm water throughout the day can be helpful.

Top Ten Natural Homeopathic Remedies For Sore Throat

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 308 Comments

A sore throat refers to constant pain, itching, and a scratchy feeling in the throat that causes difficulty in swallowing. The pain is a result of inflammation (swelling) somewhere in the throat. Inflammation at the back of the throat is known as pharyngitis, while inflammation of the tonsils present on the sides of the throat is known as tonsillitis.

The effectiveness of homeopathy is well-known in cases of sore throat. Homeopathic remedies help in the symptom management of a sore throat, besides reducing inflammation in the throat. It successfully brings relief to symptoms like pain in the throat, itching, irritation in the throat, dryness, burning in the throat, hoarseness, and cough. The basic aim of homeopathic treatment for a sore throat is to strengthen the immunity to fight the root cause and aid recovery.

Homeopathy is effective in treating acute, chronic and recurrent cases

Homeopathic medicines are beneficial in acute, chronic and recurrent cases of sore throat. In acute cases, it eases the symptoms and helps in shortening the recovery process. In chronic cases, where a person has a tendency to get a sore throat very often, there is no better option than homeopathy. Homeopathy helps reduce the frequency and intensity of episodes of sore throat remarkably by boosting the self-healing system of the body. It reduces the susceptibility to infections and other ailments (due to allergies, acid reflux) by addressing the underlying cause. In conventional mode, antibiotics are prescribed frequently in cases of sore throat, irrespective of the nature of the infection, while antibiotics are only required in case of a bacterial infection. With regular use of homeopathy for the prescribed duration of treatment, the reliance on antibiotics is significantly reduced in such cases.

Homeopathy is safe and natural

Homeopathy is the best treatment option in cases of sore throat due to the use of natural medicines that are free of any side effects. Homeopathy works well among people of all age groups, especially children, who are more susceptible to sore throats. The efficacy of homeopathic treatment for sore throat is incomparable, the highest advantage being the safest and most gentle mode of treatment.

Homeopathy focuses on Individualized prescription

Homeopathic prescription varies from person to person. The homeopathic remedy is administered after a detailed assessment of the characteristic symptoms present in the individual. It would be no surprise if two persons suffering from a sore throat are given different sets of medicines in homeopathy, as it is based on the fundamental homeopathic law of individualization, which is the most important rule to be followed on the path to recovery.

Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines for Sore Throat

The top 10 homeopathic medicines for the treatment of sore throat are Belladonna, Mercurius Solubilis, Hepar Sulphur, Merc Iod Flavus, Merc Iod Ruber, Phytolacca Decandra, Tuberculinum, Baptisia Tinctoria, Lachesis Muta and Nitricum Acidum.

1. Belladonna –Top-grade Medicine

The first medicine that comes to a homeopath’s mind to treat a sore throat is Belladonna. It is the most prescribed medicine to treat a sore throat. Those who need Belladonna suffer from marked pain in the throat along with a sore, bright red, and inflamed throat. There is shooting pain, especially while swallowing liquids, and the throat is generally dry. Tonsils are also swollen, inflamed, and red. Fever with intense heat may be an accompanying factor.

When to use Belladonna?

It is recommended as the first line of treatment in cases of sore throat with a bright red and inflamed throat with marked pain.

How to use Belladonna?

It can be used in both low and high potencies. The most preferred dosage is 30C potency one to three times a day, depending on the severity of the symptoms.

2. Mercurius Solubilis –For Stitching (sharp) Pain from Throat to Ear

It is a very effective medicine when a person has stabbing pain in the throat that radiates to the ears, especially while swallowing. Along with this, rawness, smarting, and burning sensations are felt in the throat. There is a bluish-red swelling inside the throat. Inflammatory ulcers may be present in the throat. Increased salivation is another characteristic feature of administering this medicine. Some people tend to get a sore throat during every weather change; such individuals can benefit tremendously by using this medicine.

When to use Mercurius Solubilis?

The key symptom for using this medicine is stabbing pain in the throat that goes up to the ears while swallowing food or water.

How to use Mercurius Solubilis?

Merc Sol 30C can be administered one to two times a day.

3. Hepar Sulphur –For Sharp Splinter-like Pricking Sensation in the Throat

It is a very suitable medicine when there is a sensation of splinters (sharp objects penetrating the tissue) in the throat while swallowing solid food. The pain from the throat may extend up to the ears. On physical examination of the throat, enlarged red follicles may be seen.

When to use Hepar Sulphur?

Hepar Sulph is administered when the key symptom is a splinter-like pricking sensation in the throat.

How to use Hepar Sulphur?

Use Hepar Sulph in 30C potency one to three times a day

4. Merc Iod Flavus –For Sore Throat and Pain on Right side of Throat

This medicine is specific to treat a sore throat, mostly on the right side. Its use is also recommended when soreness in the throat begins on the right side and then goes to the left. Those who need it have a constant desire to swallow. A sticky mucus and lump are felt in the throat. Small ulcers may be present at the back of the throat.

When to use Merc Iod Flavus?

This medicine can be used for a sore throat on the right side or when a sore throat moves from the right side to the left.

How to use Merc Iod Flavus?

This medicine can be administered in 30C potency once or twice daily.

5. Merc Iod Ruber – For Sore Throat and Pain on the Left Side of the Throat

It is mostly prescribed for sore throat pain on the left side. It is also administered when the pain in the throat begins from the left side and gradually moves to the right. Apart from sore throat and coughing, there is an urge to forcefully spit out the phlegm, and the sensation of a lump in the throat is also felt.

When to use Merc Iod Ruber?

One can consider its use if there is a left-sided sore throat and also when soreness in the throat moves from left to right.

How to use Merc Iod Ruber?

Merc Iod Ruber can be used one to two times a day.

6. Phytolacca Decandra –With Marked Pain and hot sensation in Throat

This medicine is mostly indicated for managing sore throat with pain and heated sensation in the throat. The throat looks reddish or bluish-red. The right side of the throat is mostly more affected. The tonsil on the right side is also swollen and dark red. There is an inability to swallow anything hot.

When to use Phytolacca Decandra?

Use to manage sore throat with pain along with marked heated sensation in the throat, especially on the right side.

How to use Phytolacca Decandra?

It is advised to administer Phytolacca 30C once or twice a day.

7. Tuberculinum –To combat the Tendency of Recurrent Sore Throat

This medicine is beneficial for cases of recurrent sore throat. Those who need this medicine get a sore throat quite frequently. There is throat inflammation along with inflamed and enlarged tonsils. The throat is dry and painful. Tickling is felt in the throat that leads to coughing.

When to use Tuberculinum?

Its use is suggested in cases where there is a tendency to get a sore throat very often.

How to use Tuberculinum?

It is a deep-acting medicine that is usually given in 200C potency once or twice a month.

Note: Homeopathic medicines can be used in most of the cases of sore throat independently. However, in cases of strep throat (bacterial infection) use of homeopathic medicine is recommended along with conventional treatment since strep throat can cause further complications.

8. Baptisia Tinctoria –For Painless or septic sore throat

Baptisia Tinctoria is a well-indicated medicine for intense, septic sore throat marked by intense redness and swelling of the tonsils, soft palate, and fauces (the opening at the back of one’s mouth), often appearing dark red or dusky. There is a painless sore throat with smelly discharge. The throat feels constricted and sore, with a lot of difficulty and pain while swallowing or speaking; the patient may gag or make repeated efforts to swallow. Ulcers in the throat are ragged and foul-looking, with an offensive discharge and putrid odour. There may be a peculiar numbness inside the throat despite marked external sensitivity. It is relatively easier to swallow liquids than solid food.

When to use Baptisia Tinctoria?

Baptisia Tinctoria is used in sore throat when the tonsils and fauces are dark reddish, swollen, and septic, with foul-smelling, putrid ulceration.

How to use Baptisia Tinctoria?

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

9. Lachesis Muta – for left sided Sore throat

Lachesis Muta is a notable remedy for a sore throat that begins on the left side and may extend to the ear, with intense sensitivity to touch and pressure. The throat appears dark reddish, purplish, or livid, often with swollen tonsils and a choking or constricted sensation, as if a lump were lodged in the throat. Pain aggravates from swallowing saliva or liquids, hot drinks aggravate, and even tight collars or neckbands are intolerable. The condition is often septic in nature, with dusky discoloration and a tendency toward quinsy or diphtheritic states.

When to use Lachesis Muta?

Lachesis Muta works well in a sore throat that is left-sided or starts on the left, with dark reddish or purplish congestion and extreme sensitivity to touch or tight clothing around the neck.

How to use Lachesis Muta?

It can be initiated with 30C potency on alternate days or every week. Higher potencies can be administered only after consulting a qualified homoeopath.

10. Nitric Acid – For Ulcerated, Burning Sore Throat

Nitric acid is administered in a sore throat marked by severe dryness and heat. It is also accompanied by sharp, stinging, penetrative pain, especially on swallowing. The throat feels raw, sore, and ulcerated, with pain often extending to the ears. Also, there is noticeable difficulty in swallowing.

When to Use Nitric Acid?

Nitric acid is used in sore throat when there is intense dryness, heat, and sharp, splinter-like pains that aggravate on swallowing.

How to Use Nitric Acid?

It can be initiated with 30C potency once a day.

What Causes Sore Throat?

1. Viral Infections

Out of all the cases of sore throat, around 90 to 95 per cent of the cases arise from a viral infection. The primary viral infections that lead to a sore throat are influenza (flu), common cold, measles, chicken pox, mumps, mononucleosis, and Covid-19

2. Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections linked to a sore throat are more serious than viral infections. The most noteworthy is an infection caused by Group A streptococcus bacteria that can lead to strep throat and it needs quick medical diagnosis and treatment. It mostly affects children, but people of any age group can be affected. If left untreated, it can lead to complications like rheumatic fever (an inflammatory disease involving joints, heart, skin, and brain), kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis), peritonsillar abscess (a collection of pus beside the tonsils), and mastoiditis (inner ear infection).

3. Allergies

A person who has allergies is usually susceptible of a sore throat. The common allergens include dust, pollen, grass, molds, and pet dander (mainly from dogs and cats). PND (post-nasal dripping) of mucus is the main cause of a sore throat that develops due to allergies. Mucus dripping from the posterior nares (nostrils) into the throat tends to cause scratching, tickling, and irritation in the throat.

4. Dryness

Dry air tends to decrease the moisture levels in the throat, leading to dryness, roughness, and itching. Breathing from the mouth also causes dryness, leading to a sore throat.

5. GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) may also lead to a sore throat in some cases. In GERD, the stomach acid flows backward into the food pipe due to improper functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This may also cause a sore throat; its other main symptoms are heartburn, lump in the throat, regurgitation of sour liquid, and chest pain.

6. Voice overstraining

Talking loudly, yelling, and speaking for a long time without a break may also cause soreness in the throat.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Pain in the throat that worsens on swallowing food, drinks, or even saliva

2. Itching, irritation, and a scratchy feeling in the throat

3. Difficulty in swallowing

4. Redness, swelling of the throat and tonsils, along with pain

5. White patches, pus, or ulcers on the tonsils

6. Hoarseness of voice

7. Coughing

8. Dryness in the throat

9. Burning sensation in the throat

10. Earache

11. Nasal symptoms (like a runny nose, blocked nose, and sneezing)

12. Enlargement of lymph nodes in the neck that can be felt

Some general symptoms that accompany a sore throat are fever (with or without chills), weakness, headache, and body aches.

Who is At Risk of a Sore Throat?

Though a sore throat may affect anyone, some factors increase its risk:

Age: Sore throats are more common in children and teenagers.

Weak immunity: Those with weak immunity due to diabetes, stress, or poor diet may get a sore throat more often than others.

Long-term sinusitis: People with sinusitis may have PND (post-nasal discharge) in which the mucus drips from the back of the nose into the throat. It can irritate the throat and cause soreness.

Passive smoking/ Overexposure to smoke: Smoking as well as exposure to smoke both lead to irritation of the throat and enhance the chance of getting a sore throat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a sore throat contagious?

If caused by a viral or bacterial infection, it can be contagious. Sore throat due to allergy, pollution, or dryness is not contagious.

2. Is it safe to administer homeopathic medicines to children for a sore throat?

Yes, when prescribed correctly, homeopathic medicines are safe and gentle for children.

3. How can I prevent recurrent sore throat?

Maintaining good immunity, avoiding cold exposure, treating allergies, drinking enough water, and managing acidity can help prevent frequent sore throats.

4. Does a sore throat always need antibiotics?

No. Most sore throats are viral or non-infectious and do not require antibiotics. Unnecessary antibiotic use should be avoided.

5. How often should homeopathic medicine be taken in sore throat?

Dosage and repetition depend on the severity of the symptoms and should be administered by a qualified homeopath.

6. Can a sore throat resolve on its own?

Yes. Many a time, mild sore throats improve with rest, hydration, and basic care.

7. How does homeopathy help in recurrent sore throat?

Homeopathic medicines work at the root cause and help improve immunity, thus reducing the tendency for repeated throat infections.

8. What are the earliest signs of a sore throat?

Dryness, scratchy feeling, mild pain while swallowing, or frequent throat clearing.

9. Is a sore throat always associated with fever?

No. Many sore throats occur without fever, especially in mild infections or irritation.

10. How is a sore throat diagnosed?

The diagnosis is based on symptoms, a throat examination, and medical history.

Top 11 Homeopathic Medicines for Asthma

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 66 Comments

Asthma is a respiratory illness that makes the airways narrow, accompanied by swelling and production of extra mucus. It results in difficulty in breathing, chest constriction, wheezing while exhaling, and coughing.

Homeopathy is absolutely safe and effectively treats asthma. Initially, it significantly reduces the symptoms like breathing difficulty, feeling of tightness in the chest and congestion, wheezing, cough, and pain in the chest. It helps reduce the swelling and narrowing of the airways. As one repeats treatment, the frequency of asthma attacks gradually reduce. Simultaneously, homeopathic medicines focus on addressing the underlying cause such as chronic allergic tendencies and an overactive immune system. Homeopathy optimises the immune system and treats allergic tendencies to cure asthma from its root. In severe acute asthma episodes, one may use inhalers and other recommended conventional medicines. In chronic cases, homeopathy is the best alternative and reduces dependency on corticosteroids and bronchodilators which is thought to be lifelong and primary treatment protocol in conventional medicine.

Safe medicines without side-effects

Homeopathy has an advantage of providing a remedy with no side-effects thus ensuring that asthma can be treated absolutely safely. Homeopathic medicines are safe because they are prepared from natural elements and do not contain any chemicals. No immediate or long-term adverse effects are observed if one is administered homeopathic medicines.

Homeopathy treats the patient, not just the disease

It is a known fact that homeopathy cures the patient and not just the disease. This clearly means the homeopathic medicines are administered as per the characteristic symptoms of the patient that appear at the physical and mental level, and not the disease. In other words, homeopathy treats on a case-to-case basis. Since no two persons are alike and have their own personalities, lifestyle and heredity, therefore the medicines differ on a case-to-case basis. Homeopathic remedies are administered so as to help eradicate asthma from its roots.

Offers cure rather than suppression of symptoms

The chances of suppression of symptoms in homeopathy are zero. We are familiar with the fact that if a condition is suppressed at a given time, then for that time the symptoms remain dormant and may surface later under certain favourable conditions in a more harsh way. Homeopathy completely avoids suppression of the symptoms. It, rather, follows an approach of cure by stimulating the self-healing system in the body using highly diluted natural medicines.

Non-habit forming

Homeopathic medicines are not habit forming and thus there can be no lifelong dependence on them. Once the cure has been found one can stop its use. The overall treatment time for asthma in homeopathy varies on a case to case as per various factors like the intensity of the complaint and chronicity, and how quickly an individual responds to medicine.

Top 11 Homeopathic medicines to treat asthma

The top homeopathic remedies to treat asthma are Arsenic Album, Spongia Tosta, Natrum Sulphuricum, Antimonium Tartaricum, Hepar Sulph, Blatta Orientalis, Ipecac, Lobelia Inflata, Bryonia, Stannum Met and Sambucus.

1. Arsenic Album – Top-Grade Medicine For Asthma

The symptoms indicative of use of Arsenic Album in asthma is shortness of breath that gets worse after coughing. The characteristic to use it is asthma that gets worse around 12 am-1 am. Other symptoms are wheezing and suffocative cough with frothy mucus. Another important guiding feature for using Arsenic Album is asthma which alternates with skin rash or eczema.

When to use Arsenic Album?

It is administered if there is shortness of breath and suffocating attacks that get worse around the wee hours (12 midnight and 1 am).

How to use Arsenic Album?

If the symptoms respond to the remedy, it can be administered in 30C potency, which can be repeated twice a day. If low potency doesn’t show results, it is advisable to consult a homeopath before taking higher potencies like 200C or 1M potency.

2. Spongia Tosta – For Short, Panting Breathing Accompanied By Dry Cough

Spongia Tosta works wonderfully for asthma with short and respiration that is filled with struggle, and panting. Along with difficulty in respiration, whistling from the chest on inhalation is observed. The cough is accompanied by extreme dryness of all the air passages. The cough, in this case, is dry, deep, barking, hacking in nature that doesn’t bring up mucus. In most cases, drinking warm water brings relief from coughing.

When to use Spongia Tosta?

Breathing that is full of struggle, accompanied by dry suffocating cough and acute dryness of all air passages means that this medicine should be administered.

How to use Spongia Tosta?

Begin with a 30C potency and take it one to two times daily. It can also be taken in high (200C) potency. But one should observe the symptoms before ingesting medicines with high potency.

3. Antimonium Tartaricum – For Asthma With Shortness Of Breath And Rattling Cough

Antimonium Tartaricum is a wonderful medicine for asthma if the symptoms include quick, short and difficult breathing as if gasping for air. The suffocation worsens when one lies prone, and there is an urgent need to sit up. The cough has a lot of mucus, there is too much rattling and the lungs give a feeling of mucus fullness. Mucus from the lungs doesn’t come out easily. Sometimes there is dizziness alongside coughing. It gets better by lying on the right side but worse due to damp and cold weather.

When to use Antimonium Tart?

IIt can be administered when shortness of breath, suffocation with loose cough and excessive rattling of mucus is observed.

How to Antimonium Tart?

It can be administered in 30C potency one to two times daily.

4. Natrum Sulphuricum – For Those Suffering From Asthma In Damp Weather

Natrum Sulphuricum is the best medicine for difficulty felt while breathing in damp weather. The cough is ropy, thick, and the phlegm is greenish in colour. Natrum Sulphuricum also works well in humid weather and when the condition worsens in the early morning around 4 am and 5 am. Natrum Sulphuricum is among the top performing medicines for treating asthma among the kids.

When to use Natrum Sulphuricum?

It is helpful in humid conditions (especially if there is difficult in breathing during damp weather). Cough is marked with ropy, thick, and greenish discharge.

How to use Natrum Sulphuricum?

It is mostly used in biochemic form in ‘6X potency’ and is administered in tablet form. The frequency and number of tablets depend on the intensity of the symptoms. It can be taken 3-4 times a day.

5. Blatta Orientalis – For Asthma That Sets Off Due To Dust Exposure

Blatta Orientalis remedy is for asthma that is sparked by dust. Blatta Orientalis is prescribed for shortness of breath, suffocating cough accompanied by difficulty in respiration and yellowish, pus-like formation of mucus. It can be administered for asthma triggered in the rains.

When to use Blatta Orientalis?

It is the most suitable remedy for asthmatic symptoms activated by the exposure to dust. Cough is suffocating and breathing is difficult.

How to use Blatta Orientalis?

Mother tincture is best to start with, which can be administered once or twice daily. However, one may take it in 30C and 200C potency if there isn’t much improvement. Usually, 1M potency is not recommended, unless prescribed by a qualified homeopath.

6. Hepar Sulphur – For Asthma Due To Cold Air

Hepar sulphur acts wonderfully in asthma attacks, difficult respiration, whistling, wheezing, and preventing sleep at night with copious mucus expectoration. Yellow or whitish dirty mucus can also be present. Ailments get worse by cold air or slight draught of air and get better from covering up and heat/warmth.

When to use Hepar Sulphur?

It is prescribed for asthma patients whose symptoms worsen due to exposure to cold and dry air. Cough is whitish or yellowish and the mucus is loose and easy to expel.

How to useHepar Sulphur?

Dosage and potency depend on one’s age, causative factors and symptoms of the patient. In a majority of the cases, it can be administered in 30C potency 3-4 times in a day.

7. Ipecac – When One Struggles To Breathe And Coughing Ends In Vomiting

Ipecac is administered to treat repeated attacks of asthma that is accompanied by difficult breathing and gasping. There is a wheezing cough with mucus that is not easy to expel, though the chest seems to be full as if ready to vomit.

When to use Ipecac?

It is particularly good in cases of asthma where shortness of breath along with wheezing and cough ending in vomiting is marked.

How to use Ipecac?

It mainly works in low potency i.e. 30C. Normally, the repetition of dosage is limited to one to two times daily. Higher potencies are not recommended until a homeopath suggests so.

8. Lobelia Inflata – When Asthma is Trigerred By Exertion

This medicine is best used in cases of worsening of asthma from exertion. One suffers difficulty in breathing with a feeling of constriction in the middle of the chest. Another accompanying factor is a feeling of lump in the throat. When there is chest contraction, there is also an immediate urge to breath deep. A characteristic feature that may be present is a prickling sensation in the entire body before an attack of asthma.

When to use Lobelia Inflata?

It is best administered when asthma gets activated due to exertion.

How to use Lobelia Inflata?

This medicine can be administered in 30C power one or two times daily.

9. Bryonia Alba – For Asthma With Dry, Hacking Cough

Bryonia Alba, prepared from the wild hop plant, is considered the best remedy for asthma characterised by a dry, hacking cough, especially when the cough sets off at night. The main feature pointing towards Bryonia is a peculiar sensation as if the chest would burst or “fly into pieces.” The patient instinctively holds or supports the chest while coughing. The patient often needs to sit upright due to difficulty in breathing, and respiration becomes strained and frequent. Other accompanying signs could include rust-coloured, jelly-like expectoration, and the cough worsens in a warm room or after drinking or eating.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

Bryonia is administered in cases of asthma that is marked by a dry, hacking cough that is also painful. Along with it, there is the sensation of the chest being under too much pressure or about to burst.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

Bryonia is commonly administered in a lower potency such as 30C, taken one to two times a day.

Higher potencies should be administered only after consulting a qualified homeopath.

10. Stannum Metallicum – For Weakness Of Chest Along With Asthma

Stannum Metallicum is suitable for treating asthma cases where even slight singing, laughing or talking can trigger a cough. A distinctive feature to use this remedy is the presence of three consecutive, deep, hollow coughs. It is difficult for the person to speak due to weakness in chest. There is heavy expectoration—resembling the white of an egg—and as the day progresses, it may become green and sweetish. Other accompanying symptoms include hoarseness of voice and short, oppressive breathing.

When to use Stannum Metallicum?

For asthma that is accompanied by a characteristic pattern of cough in three successive bursts

Extreme weakness of chest making it difficult for the individual to laugh, talk or sing

How to use Stannum Metallicum?

It is generally recommended in a 30C potency, taken once or twice daily.

11. Sambucus Nigra – For Asthma With Nasal Congestion

Sambucus Nigra is an important remedy in cases of asthma and sudden suffocative attacks, especially in infants who suffer from severe nasal blockage and sniffles. A key symptom is suffocative cough causing the child to wake up suddenly, with the face turn bluish. Nostrils become dry and get obstructed. There is loose, choking cough with difficulty in exhaling.

When to use Sambucus?

Sambucus is a prominent remedy for asthma, which is accompanied by a prominent suffocating cough, nasal blockage and sniffles. This remedy works wonder in infants and kids struggling with marked nasal congestion along with asthma.

How to use Sambucus?

It is administered in 30C potency, twice or thrice daily.

What Are The Causes Of Asthma?

Allergies: Allergens like animal dander, pollen and dust mites raise the risk of developing asthma

Environmental factors: Exposure to substances like fumes, toxins or any allergen can irritate the airways making the person prone to asthma.

Hygiene hypothesis: According to this notion, babies whose immune systems are not exposed to enough microorganisms during early months and years of their childhood don’t have the capacity to fend off asthma and other allergy disorders.

Previous infections: People with a history of severe viral infections in infancy, such as respiratory syncytial viral infection (RSV), are more prone to suffer it in their adulthood and later.

Genetics: If a person has a family history of asthma or any allergy, the risk of developing asthma is more.

What Are The Symptoms Of Asthma?

The symptoms vary widely from person to person. Some individuals may experience occasional symptoms—called infrequent asthma attacks—while others may face more persistent symptoms. Common signs of asthma include:

— Wheezing (a whistling sound that occurs when the airways become narrow or are blocked)

— Tightness or heaviness in the chest

— Shortness of breath

— Cough

— Additional symptoms may include difficulty in sleeping and speaking, anxiety and chest pain.

— In cough-variant asthma, the only noticeable symptom is persistent dry cough without mucus. There is no shortness of breath or wheezing. This type is particularly seen in children.

How to diagnose Asthma?

A doctor may suspect asthma after checking out the symptoms (like cough, difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath and chest tightness) of the patient, checking the chest with a stethoscope to decipher wheezing and inquiring about history of allergy in the patient or someone in the family.

The most important test recommended to ascertain asthma is spirometry. It is the best test to diagnose asthma — it measures the amount of air that is exhaled, at what speed and also the amount of air inhaled back in the lungs. In this test, the patient is asked to take a deep breath and then breathe out hard into a tube. This tube is attached to a machine named spirometer that gives measurements of this test.

Another test is the peak flow meter test which evaluates how hard a person can breathe out with the use of a simple easy-to-use device. A low reading indicates that lungs are not working well.

An X-ray of the chest is recommended to check for any infection which may be causing breathing difficulties or are triggering it.

Role Of Diet And Lifestyle Changes In Asthma

Adopting appropriate dietary and lifestyle modifications plays an important role in supporting homeopathic treatment for asthma. A balanced diet—rich in fruits, vegetables and omega-3 — may help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. It is advisable to avoid dairy products, wheat, nuts and processed foods if they tend to trigger your symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight and regular, moderate exercise or yoga are beneficial. Most importantly, managing stress through practices like meditation and deep-breathing exercises help significantly in controlling asthma.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can homeopathy reduce dependency on inhalers?

Potentially yes. Dependency on inhalers or bronchodilators may reduce if well-selected homeopathic medicines are used in the appropriate potency under professional guidance only.

2. Is wheezing a diagnostic symptom of asthma?

No. Wheezing (a whistling sound caused by narrowed airways) is not the only indicative symptom of asthma. It is one important sign, usually noticed in patients who complain of shortness of breath, heaviness in the chest and incessant cough.

3. Does vitamin D play any role in asthma?

Yes. Vitamin D helps regulate the overactive immune response that helps in managing symptoms of asthma.

4. How long do homeopathic medicines take to show relief in symptoms?

It depends on how chronic or severe the symptoms are and how each individual responds. Initial improvement may be seen within 12–15 days,

5. How should potency be selected?

Treatment often begins with a lower potency such as 30C, taken one-two times a daily. However, a homeopathic physician is the best person to guide you on potency selection.

6. How can I select the correct medicine?

The medicines mentioned above help in treating asthma, but not every patient requires the same remedy. Homeopathy is based on the person’s holistic symptom picture, so medicines should only be taken under a homeopathic physician’s guidance.

7. What is the role of homeopathy in treating asthma?

Homeopathic medicines work on the root cause, an overactive immune system, which further helps in reducing the intensity and frequency of symptoms.

8. Is asthma contagious?

No. Asthma is not a communicable disease.

Top 9 Homeopathic Medicines For Cough And Cold

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 29 Comments

Cough and cold is quite a common complaint everyone faces. Cold indicates an infection in the upper respiratory tract (it consist of nose, mouth, pharynx, larynx and the paranasal sinuses). Cough refers to an act of forcing air out of the lungs to get rid of mucus, fluids, germs (like bacteria, virus) and other matter like dust from the airways. Though cough and cold affect persons of all age groups but kids less than 6 years are more prone to it and get frequently affected as compared to adults. A young child may get several episodes of cough and cold in a year as his/ her immune system is yet developing. Cough and cold are usually caused by viruses. Among the different viruses (more than 200 types), the most common cause is rhinovirus. A person tends to catch this infection from inhaling infected virus droplets present in the environment when an infected person present nearby coughs or sneezes. It may also spread by hand to hand contact with person having cough and cold. The infection can be contracted from touching a surface that carries viral droplets and afterwards touching the nose, eyes or mouth without washing the hands. A person may also get this infection by sharing objects like towels, utensils, etc. with person having cold. Cough and cold can be attended with other symptoms like blocked nose, sneezing, sore throat, headache, body aches, watery eyes, fever and tired feeling.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy proves highly successful in treating cases of cough and cold. Homeopathic medicines boost the body’s self – healing mechanism to fight with the germs that are causing infection and get them out of the body. This ensures natural and gentle recovery with zero side effects. The cough and cold are managed along with its attending symptoms like blocked nose, sneezing, sore throat, headache and body aches. Homeopathic medicines are suitable to manage cough and cold in persons of all age groups. As these medicines have no side effects, hence are very safe to use. One should take any homeopathic medicine for managing cough and cold after consulting a homeopathic doctor as the prescription varies from case to case as per individual symptoms. In case of persistent high fever, shortness of breath, chest pain and wheezing, it is advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For Cough And Cold

1.Aconite – Topmost Medicine

Aconite is a top-rated homeopathic medicine to manage cases of cough and cold. The key feature to use this medicine is cough and cold triggered from exposure to cold air. In cases needing it, there is clear watery nasal discharge. The discharge feels hot. It is accompanied by sneezing and stuffed sensation in the nose. Along with cold, one also also complains of headache. The throat is red, inflamed with burning and stinging pain. The voice becomes hoarse along with pain in the throat while talking. The cough is dry, rough, short and barking type. It is usually worse at night time.

2. Natrum Mur – With Marked Sneezing And Watery Nasal Discharge

Natrum Mur is a very effective medicine when there is intense sneezing and watery discharge from the nose. There is watering from eyes as well. Sneezing gets worse in the early morning. The nose feels painful internally. Sense of smell and taste get reduced. There is cough with hawking of mucus. Cough is attended with suffocation which gets worse at night when lying down. While coughing, bursting type of pain occurs in the head.

3. Arsenic Album – For Thin Nasal Discharge, Cough With Marked Weakness

This medicine is highly recommended when there is thin discharge from the nose and cough with intense weakness. The nose feels stuffed along with discharge. Burning and itchy sensation in the nose is well-marked. The cold gets worse in open air and gets better indoors. Cough is dry and alternates with loose cough. Cough gets worse after midnight which is a highly characteristic feature to use this medicine. Cough gets better by sitting.

4.Belladonna – For Dry Cough, Cold With Sore Throat

Belladonna is a prominently indicated medicine for cough, cold accompanied with sore throat. There is frequent sneezing along with tickling sensation in the nostrils. There is watery discharge from one side of the nose. There occurs dry, tickling, and short cough. It increases at night. The throat and tonsils are markedly red, inflamed with a heated sensation. Dryness is felt in the throat along with marked throat pain. Pain gets worse while swallowing, especially anything liquid.

5. Hepar Sulph – For Loose Cough And Cold From Cold Air Exposure

This medicine is best suited for cases when loose cough and cold occurs after cold air exposure. Initially, there is watery nasal discharge. Afterwards, the discharge gets thick along with an offensive smell. The nose also feels stuffed up. There is PND (post nasal dripping) in which dripping of mucus from back of the nose into the throat. The cough that occurs is loose with mucus expectoration. The phlegm expelled out is thick, yellow and sticky type. The cough gets better by wrapping up warmly.

6. Pulsatilla – For Cough And Cold With Thick Yellow Green Discharge

This medicine works well in cases having cough cold with thick yellow green discharge. There is thick discharge from the nose which gets worse indoors. It gets better in open air. The nose feels blocked. It is accompanied with loss of smell and taste. There is loose cough in the day and dry cough after sleep. Yellow, green phlegm is expectorated along with loose cough.

7. Spongia – For Cold And Dry Cough

Spongia is a highly beneficial medicine to manage cold along with a dry cough. In cases requiring it, there is watery nasal discharge alternating with nose blockage. The attending cough is absolutely dry in nature. Cough is short, dry and irritative type with a rough hoarse feeling in the larynx. Cough results from a tickling sensation in the throat. There is relief in cough from eating or drinking, among which warm things offer more relief.

8. Allium Cepa – With Intense Sneezing

This medicine is helpful for cases of cough and cold with intense sneezing. Sneezing occurs almost continuously with excessive watering from the nose. Sneezing gets worse in a warm room in most cases needing it. The nasal discharge causes burning sensation in the nose and on the upper lips. A lump is felt at the root of nose. Along with the above complaints, excessive eye watering occurs. Along with cold, there is headache and hoarseness of voice. Cough gets worse from inhaling cold air and also in the evening. A tickling sensation is felt in the larynx that results in constant hawking to get relief.

9. Euphrasia – For Cold, Cough And Eye Watering

This medicine is useful when there is cold and cough along with marked eye watering. There is watery nasal discharge during the day and nasal blockage at night. The watering from eyes causes burning in the eyes. There is cough with profuse expectoration in the day time. Cough gets better at night.

What Causes White Spots On Tonsils And Its Homeopathic Remedies

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 3 Comments

Tonsils are masses of lymphoid tissues located in the back of the throat, one on each side, right and left. They function as a first line of defense mechanism to fight germs, bacteria and virus that might get inhaled or ingested. Tonsils are very much prone to get inflamed, swollen and infected. In some cases, there may occur white spots on the tonsils. This may happen from different causes. The first reason that can cause white spots on the tonsils is tonsillitis. It refers to inflammation of the tonsils that may occur from various infectious agents including viral and bacterial. The next important cause is strep throat. Strep throat is a type of throat infection caused by a bacteria named Group A beta – hemolytic streptococcus. It results in inflammation and pain in the throat and the tonsils. It is very common in school-going children. If not treated well in time, complications may appear. These include kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis) and rheumatic fever which refers to inflammation that affects joints, heart, skin and nervous system. The third cause can be tonsil stones. These indicate accumulation of white or yellow hard lumps in the crypts of tonsils made up of germs, debris, and hard minerals like calcium. These are medically known as tonsilloliths. They are not harmful but can lead to bad breath and sore throat. Another cause can be infectious mononucleosis (also called kissing disease). It refers to viral infection caused by Epstein – Barr virus that spreads easily from person to person mainly from infected saliva. This causes sore throat, swollen tonsils, swollen lymph nodes in neck and armpit, tiredness, headache, fever and skin rash. Other causes may include oral thrush (fungal infection affecting the mouth and throat), leukoplakia (a condition causing white patches in mouth that can be precancerous in some cases) and oral cancer. Depending on the cause behind white spots on the tonsils, other symptoms can attend. These include pain in the throat, difficult swallowing, cough, bad breath, fever, stuffed nose, sneezing and headache.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines can prove highly effective in cases of white spots on tonsils. Sourced from natural substances, these medicine work most naturally and harmlessly with zero side effects to remove white spots from tonsils. They can also effectively relieve any attending symptoms like pain in throat, difficult swallowing, cough, bad breath. These medicines target the root cause behind white spots on the tonsils for effective recovery. In homeopathy, the medicine most suitable for a given case is selected after detailed case analysis based on individual symptoms. So, it is advised to take any homeopathic medicine after getting your case evaluated by a homeopathic physician. Self – medication should be avoided. Homeopathy is recommended for mild to moderate cases. In serious cases of white spots on tonsils like strep throat and in cases with severe attending complaints like high fever, difficult breathing, blood in phlegm, help should be taken from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For White Spots On Tonsils

1. Hepar Sulph – For White Pus Spots On Tonsils

Hepar Sulph is a highly recommended medicine to manage cases having white pus spots on tonsils. In cases needing it, the tonsils are red and swollen. Pain is felt in the throat while swallowing. Pain from the throat may extend to the ears. There may be loose cough along with expectoration of yellow phlegm. A sensation of mucus plug is felt in throat. There may be fever along with the above complaints. While suffering from fever, chills and shivering is well marked. Hepar Sulph helps to fight infection effectively, removes pus spots and also manages the attending symptoms wonderfully.

2. Merc Sol – With Foul Breath And Excessive Salivation

Merc Sol is the next highly effective medicine for managing white spots on the tonsils along with foul breath and excessive salivation. The tonsils are enlarged, swollen and red with white spots. Felt while swallowing, there is pain in the throat extending to the ears. The uvula feels elongated. Burning sensation or heat is felt in the throat. Ulcers can be seen on the tonsils in some of the cases needing it. There may be a feeling of something hanging in the throat. There is hawking of large lumps of mucus from the throat. Voice may become hoarse along with the above complaints.

3. Kali Mur – For White Or Grayish White Spots

Kali Mur is highly beneficial for managing cases with white or grayish-white spots on the tonsils. Roughness or dryness is felt in the throat. Tonsils are much inflamed and swollen. Swallowing is very painful. Even the softest food and water cause pain on swallowing. The throat feels cold. There is hawking of thick white mucus or expectoration of cheesy lumps from the throat. The mucus lumps have a foul odor and taste. In some cases, there is expectoration of tough, stringy mucus from the throat.

4. Phytolacca – With Burning Sensation In Throat

This medicine is very helpful for managing white spots on the tonsils attended with a burning sensation in the throat. On examination, the tonsils look enlarged and dark red or purple or blue. A sensation of a lump/plug is present in the throat. The problem is more severe on the left side of the throat. The throat feels dry. It gets worse in the morning and evening. There is difficulty while swallowing accompanied by pain. While swallowing, there is shooting type of pain that extends to the ears. Pain is felt in the throat which increases by consuming warm drinks. There is an urge to hawk and clear the throat. This is attended by coughing. In some cases needing it, there is a discharge of mucus from the posterior nares in the throat. The mucus gets detached with much difficulty. There may be enlargement of the uvula.

5. Baryta Carb – For Pus Spots On Tonsils

Baryta Carb is also well-indicated for managing pus spots on the tonsils. There is difficulty in swallowing and fever where this medicine is required. Sticky phlegm may be present in the throat. There is excessive salivation along with the above-mentioned complaints. There is a feeling of a plug in the throat. It worsens from swallowing solid food. Stinging sensation is felt in the throat when swallowing saliva. In cases needing this medicine, the complaint often moves from the right to left side of the throat. In some cases, the tonsils may become hard.

6. Lac Caninum – For Deep Red, Enlarged Tonsils With White Patches On It

This medicine is beneficial for cases where tonsils are enlarged, deep red with white patches on it. The white patches are present on both the tonsils where this medicine is required. A feeling of fullness is felt in the throat that disturbs sleep at night. There is pain in the throat which gets worse from drinking fluids. The throat is also sensitive to touch externally. The uvula is swollen and elongated. Pricking sensation is felt in the throat as if the throat is full of sticks. One may also feel a tickling sensation in the throat. The upper part of the throat feels constricted. This results in dry cough. A lump is felt on the right side of the throat. Throat may also feel burnt.

Do you have Chest Congestion with Difficulty in Breathing? Try Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

Chest congestion refers to accumulation of excessive mucus in the bronchi (airways that lead from trachea to lungs) and the lungs. This results from an overproduction of mucus when mucus membranes get irritated and inflamed from a viral or bacterial infection. Production of excessive mucus is the body’s way to expel the infectious agent from the body. In some cases, chest congestion can be attended with breathing difficulty. Other accompanying symptoms can be cough, mucus expectoration (that varies in color and can have offensive smell), chest pain, wheezing (a whistling sound from the chest occurring during breathing usually deep breathing), chest tightness, fatigue (tiredness) and fever.

Chest congestion with breathing difficulty can result from different reasons. First among these is cold and flu. Flu and cold are respiratory infections that are usually caused by virus. Flu occurs when a person is infected with influenza virus. Cold occurs from different virus infections, for example rhinovirus and parainfluenza virus.

Other causes of chest congestion include asthma and bronchitis. Asthma refers to a respiratory condition in which there is narrowing of airways along with swelling and production of mucus in excess. It results in breathing difficulty, wheezing sound from the chest and coughing. Bronchitis indicates inflamed lining of the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs. Chest congestion with breathing difficulty can also arise from allergies like, dust allergy and pollen allergy.

Another reason can be pneumonia (the inflamed air sacs of lungs with fluid build-up resulting from an infection). Further reasons include emphysema (a condition resulting from damage of the air sacs of the lungs) and bronchiectasis (permanent widening and thickening of the bronchial tubes of the lungs that allow bacteria and mucus to get accumulated in lungs). Apart from respiratory illnesses, heart complaints can also result in chest congestion along with breathing difficulty. For example, in some cases, congested chest and difficult breathing might be symptoms of a heart attack which is a medical emergency that needs urgent medical help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be very helpful for managing cases of chest congestion with breathing difficulty. Homeopathic medicines are prepared from naturally occurring substances that can be very beneficial for such cases. Homeopathic medicines work on the root cause of the health issue to bring excellent results. They help to reduce the intensity and frequency of this complaint gradually. Along with this complaint, they can manage other accompanying signs and symptoms like cough, wheezing, expectoration and chest pain. These medicines are very safe to use without any side-effects. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine under supervision of a homeopathic physician. Self – medication should not be done in any case. Homeopathy is recommended for cases of mild to moderate intensity. In cases having severe intensity of this complaint and when it arises from some serious cause like pneumonia, heart issues, homeopathy is not recommended and an immediate help from the conventional mode of treatment should be taken as homeopathy has a limitation in helping such severe and serious cases.

Homeopathic Medicines For Chest Congestion With Breathing Difficulty

1. Arsenic Album – Top Grade Medicine

Arsenic Album is a top recommended medicine to manage cases of chest congestion with breathing difficulty. In cases needing it, the chest feels constricted. Wheezing (whistling sound from chest) is also felt. The chest oppression and breathing difficulty gets worse at night on lying down. It is attended with marked anxiety and restlessness. There is cough also. Along with this, frothy expectoration also occurs. At times thick yellow, grey or green expectoration is observed varying from case to case. Sometimes, vomiting also occurs soon after consuming any food or drink. Burning sensation is felt in the chest along with above complaints. One feels a load on the upper chest. It is one of the best medicines for managing asthma and bronchitis cases. A general weakness is well marked along with above signs and symptoms.

2. Hepar Sulph – With Thick Yellow Expectoration

This medicine is very effective when there is thick yellow expectoration with congested chest and difficult breathing. The phlegm expectorated has bad smell. Difficulty in breathing is worse when lying on the left side. Tightness is felt in the chest. There is marked rattling cough. It gets worse from exposure to cold air and consuming cold drinks. Cough gets better by wrapping up warmly. A sensation of dust is felt in the throat. Wheezing is also there along with above symptoms.

3. Antimonium Tart – With Rattling Cough And Excessive Mucus In Chest

Antimonium Tart is the best choice of medicine when there is rattling cough with excessive build-up of mucus in the chest. In cases requiring this medicine, the lungs seem to be full of mucus but only a small quantity is expectorated. The expectorated phlegm is very thick and white. There is difficulty in breathing. Cough gets worse after eating. Pain in the chest may occur with these symptoms. Cough and breathing difficulty is relieved by lying on the right hand side. Breathing also gets better by burping. Antimonium Tart is the most prominent medicine for managing bronchitis cases.

4. Ipecac – With Chest Constriction Worse From Least Movement

Ipecac is a well-indicated medicine when there is a constricted feeling in the chest which gets worse from the least movement. This feeling is accompanied with difficult breathing. There is gasping for air and the sufferer rushes to open a window for breathing. There is suffocative cough. It is attended with nausea and vomiting. There is vomiting of white mucus. In some cases, ropy mucus is expectorated. Cough occurs after a meal. While coughing, pain is felt in the abdomen, chest and the head.

5. Silicea – With Chest Pain On Deep Breathing

Silicea is useful when there is chest pain on deep breathing along with chest congestion and breathing difficulty. A stitching pain is felt in the chest in cases needing this medicine. Tight feeling is felt around the chest. There is cough with thick and yellow lumpy phlegm expectoration having an offensive smell. The phlegm may also be like pus and sometimes blood-stained. Cough gets worse on lying down. It is also bad while talking, and from taking cold drinks. Difficulty in breathing is worse when lying on the back and also when walking fast.

6. Pulsatilla – With Yellowish Green Expectoration

This medicine is of great use when there is yellowish green expectoration. The expectoration is worse in the morning. In cases needing it, there is chest congestion and breathing difficulty along with the above complaint. Breathing difficulty worsens when lying on the left side. The person needing it feels worsening of the complaint in a warm room and has a desire for fresh open air to get relief.

7. Bryonia – With Chest Pain

This medicine is indicated for cough, breathing difficulty, chest congestion along with chest pain. The chest pain gets worse from movement, coughing and deep breathing. The person needing it holds the chest when coughing. Chest pain gets better by applying pressure. Breathing difficulty is worse after eating or drinking any thing. Person has to sit up due to difficulty in breathing. Expectoration like lumps of jelly may occur along with the above symptoms.

Homeopathic remedies for yellow mucus in nose, throat and lungs

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 5 Comments

Mucus is a normal slippery secretion produced by mucous membranes in the body. It is produced by membranes of the nose, sinuses, throat, respiratory tract and also digestive tract, urinary system, genitals, eyes and ears. Some amount of mucus produced naturally in the nose and throat is important as it functions to trap germs (like bacteria, viruses, dust, dirt) and prevents their entry into the lungs. But in case of some infection or allergy, mucus production tends to increase, it gets thick and also changes in color.

In case of infection, white blood cells are produced in excess and move to the airways to fight infection. The neutrophils present in white blood cells give the mucus yellow or green color. Yellow mucus in the nose, throat and lungs can be caused due to various reasons. Some of the main reasons include common cold, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia. The mucus (phlegm) expelled via coughing is called sputum. Depending on the cause behind yellow mucus several other symptoms can attend. These include sneezing, nasal blockage, PND (post nasal drip means dripping of mucus from back of the nose into the throat), headache, cough, difficult breathing, chest pain, fever and fatigue.

Homeopathic Treatment For Yellow Mucus

Homeopathy is of great help in managing cases of yellow mucus in the nose, throat and lungs. Homeopathic medicines work naturally in reducing mucus discharge by targeting the root cause behind it. Homeopathic medicines also manage the attending symptoms like nasal blockage, cough, sneezing, and headache quite effectively wherever present. The most suitable homeopathic medicine is selected individually for every case after detailed case analysis. Homeopathic medicines are safe and effective for persons of all age groups with zero side effects.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Relieving Yellow Mucus

1. Pulsatilla – Top Most Medicine

Pulsatilla is the leading homeopathic medicine to manage yellow discharge from nose, throat and lungs. It can be used when one is suffering from cold with thick yellow discharge from the nose. The discharge may have a fetid smell. The discharge is prominent in the morning and while a person is indoors. It gets better in the open. In the evening, blockage of the nose may be present. There may be loss of smell and taste as well in cases needing it. There may be sneezing, itching in the nose may be felt in the evening. Pulsatilla is also considered in cases of cough with thick yellow lumpy expectoration. It may have a bitter taste and gets worse in the morning.

2. Kali Bichrome – For Thick, Yellow, Sticky, Ropy Discharge

Kali Bichrome is the best medicine for cases of thick, yellow, sticky and ropy discharges. It is very effective for treating cold and sinusitis with this type of nasal discharge. Along with this, pressure or pain at the root of the nose is well marked. Nasal blockage can attend with difficulty breathing through the nose. An offensive smell may be felt in the nose from retained nasal secretions. Excessive sneezing in the morning can occur. This medicine is also most prominent to deal with yellow ropy post-nasal discharge. This medicine is the next best medicine for cough with yellow and sticky mucus expectoration. It comes out in long strings like a thread.

3. Hepar Sulph – For Rattling Cough With Yellow Expectoration

This medicine is helpful when there is rattling cough with yellow expectoration. The sputum expectorated is thick, yellow and sticky. It smells bad. Cough gets worse from exposure to cold air. There is wheezing in the chest. Hepar Sulph Next also benefits in cases of yellow nasal discharge. Yellow sticky discharge comes out from one nostril. There is blockage of nose when a person is out in cold air along with sneezing. Pain at the root of the nose is quite prominent. Heat and burning in the nose may also be felt.

4. Hydrastis – For thick yellow discharges

Hydrastis is recommended for cases of thick yellow discharges. The discharge occurs from nose and is sticky in nature. Burning and smarting in the nose is felt. Sneezing also occurs along with pressure above the eyes. Nose feels stuffed up. Pain may be felt in the front of the head. It is also an important medicine for thick yellow post-nasal discharge. Hydrastis also works well for loose cough with thick, yellow expectoration.

5. Calcarea Carb – For Yellow Discharge With Nasal Blockage

It is a suitable medicine for yellow nasal discharge with nasal blockage. There is great difficulty in breathing through the nose. Blockage gets worse at night time. There is alteration between yellow nasal discharge and nasal dryness. There is loss of smell. The root of the nose may be swollen. There is a tendency to catch cold whenever there is change of weather. Besides, it is also useful in case of thick yellow expectoration which is sour in taste and stinks badly. The expectoration occurs during the day only.

6. Silicea – For Thick, Yellow Offensive Mucus Discharge

It is a highly important medicine for managing cases of thick, yellow offensive mucus discharge. The discharge is mostly prominent in the morning. In cases needing it, sinusitis may be present with mainly frontal sinus involvement. In the morning, there is sneezing with drawing pain at the root of the nose. Nasal blockage may be present. Silicea is well indicated for excessive cough with thick, yellow expectoration especially while lying down. Silicea is also given in cases of hawking of yellow offensive mucus from the throat in the form of balls.

7. Lycopodium – For Thick, Yellow Discharge

This medicine is highly valuable for thick yellow discharge. In cases requiring it, along with discharge there is swelling of the nose. Besides, pain in the forehead is quite marked along with blockage of nose. It is significant medicine for cases of cough with thick, yellowish green expectoration. It has a salty taste. It also has a very offensive smell. The mucus may be blood streaked in some cases.

8. Calcarea Sulph – For Yellow Pus Like Discharge Tinged With Blood

This medicine is frequently indicated for managing yellow pus like discharge tinged with blood. The discharge occurs from the nose and may be one from one side of the nose only. Sneezing may attend it. Such discharge may also occur as post nasal discharge (PND). It is also indicated for thick lumpy yellow expectoration streaked with blood.

9. Kali Sulph – For Yellow Sticky Discharge

For yellow sticky discharges, this medicine can be used. It may alternate with watery discharge. Nose feels obstructed. Kali Sulph is also considered when there is cough with difficult expectoration of yellow mucus.

What causes yellow mucus?

1. Common cold: It is a viral infection of the nose and throat. It can arise from various viruses among which the most common is rhinoviruses. It causes nasal discharge and other symptoms including sneezing, stuffy nose, sore throat, PND and cough. Additionally, headache, fatigue, body aches and fever can also occur.

2. Sinusitis: It refers to inflammation of paranasal sinuses i.e. air-filled cavities inside the skull bone. It causes nasal discharge, PND, headache, pain in head or face, stuffy nose, and ear fullness.

3. Bronchitis: It refers to inflamed bronchial tubes that carry air to and from lungs. It leads to cough with mucus production, breathing difficulty, fever, chest pain, wheezing from chest and weakness.

4. Pneumonia: Inflammation of air sacs of lungs from an infection is termed as pneumonia. It causes productive cough (means along with mucus production), chest pain on taking deep breath, shortness of breath, fever and chills.

5. Tuberculosis: It is an infection of the lungs caused by bacteria mycobacterium tuberculosis. The symptoms include cough with phlegm, fever, night sweats, breathing difficulty, chest pain, appetite loss, weight loss and fatigue.

6. Bronchiectasis: It is one of the types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in which there occurs damage and widening of the bronchi. Symptoms include cough with excessive amount of offensive expectoration, chest pain, wheezing, weight loss and fatigue.

Is mucus in your chest troubling you? Try out these Homeopathic remedies

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

Mucus is normally made in our body daily in certain amounts. Mucus produced by the respiratory system is called phlegm/sputum that keeps the respiratory tract moist and functions to save us from bacterial and viral infections by trapping infectious agents (like virus, bacteria). In case excessive mucus is produced in lungs, it causes chest congestion that could be indicative of a medical issue which needs to be addressed and treated. Some of the reasons for excessive mucus in the chest are bacterial and viral infections, common cold, flu, asthma, acid reflux, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), allergies, smoking and cystic fibrosis. It can be attended with cough (wet productive cough) and expectoration (spitting out mucus) produced in the respiratory tract. The color of the mucus varies from case to case depending on the cause behind it —breathing difficulty, wheezing, chest congestion, chest pain, fever, stuffy nose, sneezing, fatigue, body aches.

The phlegm expectorated may also vary in colour. Mostly clear phlegm indicates allergies, yellow or green mucus indicates a viral or bacterial infection and red mucus may arise from bronchitis, pneumonia, lung cancer.

Homeopathic medicines are highly effective to help clear mucus from the chest. These medicines act as natural expectorants which help to thin out and loosen the mucus from the chest making it easier to be coughed out. The homeopathic medicine for mucus in chest is selected individually for every case depending on case presentation.

Homeopathic Medicines For Mucus In Chest

1. Antimonium Tart – Top Grade Medicine

Antimonium Tart is the leading medicine to deal with cases of mucus in the chest. The key indication to use it is cough with excessive rattling of mucus in chest. Rattling gets worse when lying down and better when sitting in an upright position. There appears to be large accumulation of phlegm in chest. Cough occurs day and night but no or very little sputa gets expectorated. A suffocative sensation occurs with cough. Here, use of this medicine aids expulsion of thick and yellow phlegm from the airways. In cases needing it, cough may be attended with belching and even vomiting of watery slimy matter. Along with cough, pain in the chest of dull nature may accompany. Headache may be felt along with excessive exhaustion with cough. It is a great medicine for bronchitis cases.

2. Arsenic Album – With Wheezing Or Whistling From Chest

This medicine is very suitable when wheezing or whistling sounds occur from chest along with mucus in chest. There occurs cough and expectoration of frothy mucus or sometimes thick yellow, green or grey mucus. Cough is preceded by anxiety and restlessness. Cough mainly occurs after eating or drinking. It gets worse at night more specifically after midnight forcing the sufferer to sit as soon as the cough starts. Cough is attended with soreness in chest and breathing difficulty. A weight is felt in the upper part of the lungs. Chest feels constricted. A burning sensation may also be felt in the chest. Arsenic Album is very effective for cases of asthma and bronchitis.

3. Ipecac – When Cough With Vomiting Attends

Ipecac is an ideal medicine for mucus in chest when there occur cough with vomiting episodes. A fit of cough from tickling in the larynx occurs followed by vomiting. Vomiting may contain white mucus or food. At times in the morning, expectoration of mucus and blood or ropy mucus might occur. A rattling noise is heard in the chest while breathing. Difficulty in breathing may arise from the least exercise. Episodes of suffocation arise and one feels better in open air. There is constriction in throat and chest with wheezing noise.

4. Hepar Sulph – For Pus-Like Mucus In Chest

Hepar Sulph is a well-indicated medicine when pus-like mucus is expectorated. It is a most prominent medicine for cough and mucus arising from exposure to cold air. Expectoration occurs only in the morning time of pus-like mucus that tastes sour or sweet. It has foul smell. There is difficulty in breathing which prevents sleep at night and the sufferer has to get up for relief. Also, one feels relief during the day. While coughing, burning is felt in the throat and chest. Fever may occur along with chills.

5. Pulsatilla – When There Is Yellow Or Green Mucus

It is a great choice of medicine when yellow or green-colored mucus is expectorated. This medicine speeds up drainage of mucus and affects speedy recovery. In the morning, there is loose cough while in the evening and night, the cough is dry. Shortness of breath may attend. Complaints are worse in a warm room. A desire for fresh air in the open is marked which relieves complaints.

6. Kali Bichrome – For Stringy (Thread-Like), Sticky Mucus

Kali Bichrome is one of the best medicines for stringy, sticky mucus in the chest. In such cases, Kali Bichrome loosens the yellow-colored mucus making it easier to cough it out. In cases needing it, there is coughing which gets better by expectoration. Wheezing is noted at night.

7. Phosphorus – For Blood-Stained Mucus

Phosphorus is an excellent medicine for blood-stained mucus. In cases requiring it, cough arises from tickling in the throat. Talking and cold air worsens it. Cough may also be triggered by strong odors. There is breathing trouble arising from even the slightest motion.

8. Silicea – For Thick, Yellow Lumpy Mucus

Silicea acts as a great expectorant for cases where thick yellow lumpy mucus is present. It has a foul smell. Silicea makes the mucus thin and easier to cough out. In cases needing it, loose cough occurs day and night. Cough worsens on lying down. Shortness of breath occurs on running, coughing and lying on the back.

9. Causticum – When Mucus From Airways Rises Up But Slips Down Again

This medicine is of immense use to increase expulsive power of airways to get rid of mucus. In cases needing it, the mucus from airways comes up to the throat and then slips back and swallowed. The cough is worse in the morning and at night. It gets better by drinking cold water.

10. Natrum Sulph – For Thick, Ropy, Greenish Pus Like Phlegm

This medicine is indicated for cases having thick, ropy, greenish pus-like phlegm. Cough is attended with soreness in chest. It is loose, arising from tickling in the throat. Pressure is felt in the chest like a heavy weight pressing against the chest. Stitching pain is felt on the left side of the chest which gets worse while breathing.

Causes of Mucus in Chest

1. Infections

Viral or bacterial infection can lead to mucus in the chest. Infections such as cold, flu could be the main reasons. It arises when infection from the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat, sinuses) reaches lower respiratory tract (bronchial tubes, lungs). COVID -19 though does not lead to mucus in the chest but can cause pneumonia that causes chest congestion.

2. COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

It refers to a group of lung diseases, chronic bronchitis and emphysema, that make breathing difficult for a person. Inflammation of bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs is called bronchitis. It can lead to excessive mucus production in the chest. In emphysema, air sacs in lungs are damaged causing shortness of breath

3. Pneumonia

Infection that causes inflammation of air sacs of lungs.

4. Asthma

A respiratory condition resulting from narrowing of airways and its swelling and excessive production of mucus giving rise to breathing difficulty, cough and wheezing from chest.

5. Allergies

Allergies can cause a range of symptoms from sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes to cough, chest mucus and chest tightness. Some common allergens include dust mites and pollen that can trigger the symptoms.

6. Acid reflux

It refers to the back flow of stomach acid into the food pipe and throat. It may cause irritation of the throat, cough, and chest congestion.

7. Smoking

8. Cystic fibrosis

It is an inherited condition that leads to thick mucus production mainly in lungs and but may affect other organs as well like pancreas, kidneys, liver and intestine.

Kali Muriaticum: Homeopathic Medicine — Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 23 Comments

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

Drug Action

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

Clinical Indications

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

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

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

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

Key Indicating Features

Infection of outer ear canal or middle ear

Ear discharge (otorrhoea) of white color

Earache and difficulty in hearing from swollen and congested middle ear

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

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

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

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

Key Indicating Features

Cold with thick, white, profuse discharge from nose

Frontal sinusitis with white mucus discharge from nose

Nasal bleeding in afternoon or at night

3. Throat Issues (Sore Throat, Tonsillitis)

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

Key Indicating Features

Sore throat with greyish white coating in throat along with ulcers

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

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

4. Head (Headache, Dandruff)

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

Key Indicating Features

Sinus headache with hawking of white mucus

Headache with vomiting of white phlegm

White dandruff in excess that falls as small flakes with itching

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

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

Key Indicating Features

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

Oral thrush with white ulcers in mouth

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

Tongue coated greyish white, thick, sticky and slimy

6. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Bronchitis, Pneumonia)

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

Key Indicating Features

Cough with thick, white sputum expectoration

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

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

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

Key Indicating Features

Joint pain during movement or at night with marked swelling

Cold hands and feet

Stiff hands while writing

Modalities

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

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

Dosage

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

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Belladonna, Hydrastis, Calcarea Sulph and Pulsatilla

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

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

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