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Hypericum Perforatum: Homeopathic medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 16 Comments

It is a natural homeopathic remedy derived from the plant St John’s Wort. It belongs to family Hypericaceae. The whole fresh plant undergoes potentization (a process of preparing homeopathic medicines by arousing medicinal properties of a crude substance) to provide us with the benefits of homeopathic medicine Hypericum Perforatum. It is the top-most medicine in homeopathy that comes in handy for injuries to nerves, head and spine.

Drug Action

The most specific action of this remedy is seen on the nerves. It can effectively deal with medical ailments involving nerves like nerve injury, inflammation or pain in the nerves. Besides nerve injury,  it also heals punctured wounds (caused by sharp, pointed objects), and lacerated wounds (wounds caused by blunt object in which the skin or tissue is torn or cut resulting in an irregular wound). Besides, it works notably well on the back, spine, neck, mind, head, skin and teeth.

Clinical Indications

Injuries, wounds, coccyx injury, spine injury, neuritis, neuralgia, surgery effects, stings, bites, sciatica, corns, bunions, headache, depression, scars, toothache

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. For Managing Injuries (Nerve Injury, Punctured Wounds, Lacerated Wounds, Injury To Spine, Tail Bone Injury, Whiplash Injury)

The most prominent injury for which Hypericum is indicated is nerve injury attended with intense, violent excruciating pain. It can be used as first-aid for treating nerve injury mainly on fingers, toes and nail matrices. It also offers help for nerve injury to dental nerves, for example after a dental operation. It is also beneficial for injury to sciatic nerve (a nerve that begins in lower back and runs down the hip, back of thigh down into the leg and feet) accompanied by sharp cutting pain. It can also effectively help to manage cases of cuts on skin inflicted from glass objects and also to relieve pain in surgical cuts. Hypericum is indicated for managing punctured wounds (injury caused by sharp, pointed objects like needles, splinters, pins, nails) with marked tenderness.

Role of Hypericum in managing lacerated wounds is also noteworthy. Lacerated wounds are the ones in which the skin or tissue is torn or cut open resulting in an irregular wound caused by a blunt object. Here it works best to heal such wounds attended with excessive weakness from blood loss and very violent, shooting and sharp pain. It is also a very important medicine to manage injury to spine attended with pain, sensitivity and injury to tail bone.

Another main indication for its use is whiplash injuries (an injury to neck caused by rapid back and forth movement of neck mainly seen in car accidents). It also helps to relieve pain after injections, spinal tap (also called lumbar puncture in which a needle is inserted between two lumbar bones in lower back to take sample of cerebrospinal fluid). Besides, it provides substantial relief post-surgery.

Key indicating features

Nerve injury accompanied by intense, violent excruciating pain

Nerve injury in fingers, toes and nail matrices

Punctured wounds caused by sharp, pointed objects with intense tenderness

Lacerated wounds with violent, shooting and sharp pains and excessive weakness from blood loss

Injury to spine attended with intense pain and sensitivity

Tail bone injury and whiplash injury

2. Nerve Complaints (Neuritis, Nerve Injury)

Hypericum is a prime medicine for managing neuritis (nerve inflammation) when there is numbness, tingling and burning pain in the affected area. It covers nerve inflammation after an injury. It is a superb medicine to deal with nerve injury attended with intense pain and sensitive nerves. It gives substantial relief in cases of injury to fingers and toes that are rich in nerves, dental nerves and sciatic nerve.

Key Indicating Features

Neuritis (nerve inflammation) with numbness, tingling and burning pain

Nerve inflammation after an injury

Nerve injury attended with intense pain and sensitive nerves

3. Neck And Back (Tailbone Injury, Lower Back Pain And Neck Pain)

This medicine acts wonderfully well on neck and the back to treat numerous concerns. It gives good results in cases of coccyx (tail bone) pain arising from a fall. In cases needing it the pain from tail bone extends up the spine and also goes down the legs. The sufferer is unable to walk or stoop post-injury. Hypericum is suitable to treat pain in lower back.  There is aching, stitching or sharp pain with lame feeling. This medicine is used to manage cases of pinched nerve in the spine with very sharp pain and problem in walking and stooping. This medicine is also well indicated for the management of cases of injury to spine. In such cases the spine is painful, tender and sensitive. Ladies who complain of back pain after delivery may find this medicine quite useful. Apart from the above, Hypericum is effective in managing neck pain where cervical vertebra (seven bones stacked one above the other in the back of the neck) become very sensitive to touch. Its use is considered when after a fall, a person feels intense pain in the spine even from a little movement of neck or arms, along with sensitive cervical vertebra and headache. Lastly it’s a magnificent medicine for managing whiplash injuries.

Key Indicating Features

Pain in tail bone

Lower backache

Injury to spine

Neck pain

Intense pain in spine after a fall

4. Mind (Complaints From Head Injury, Fright And Shock, Depression And Memory Weakness)

It works exceptionally well on the mind too. Primarily its use is considered for managing mind complaints arising from head injury (mainly dullness of mind), fright, and emotional shock. It is also given for cases of depression that sets in after injuries, wounds or after an emotional shock. Other than this, it is also known to be of great value in cases of weakening memory, brain fag (unhappy, tense, facial expressions with repetitive gestures) and forgetfulness. People needing it become forgetful while speaking, forget what they are about to say. They make mistakes in speaking and in writing as well.

Key Indicating Features

Complaints arising from head injury (mainly dullness of mind), fright, and emotional shock

Depressed feeling occurring after injuries, wounds and after an emotional shock

Memory weakness, brain fag and forgetfulness

5. Skin (Insect Bites, Stings, Animal Bites, Scars, Corns, Bunions)

This medicine acts well to manage insect bites and stings. It gives supportive help along with conventional treatment in cases of animal bites, like rat bite, dog bite, etc. Next well- known effect of this medicine is to treat painful scars in body tissues. Another indication to use it is Herpes Zoster (a viral infection caused by reactivation of varicella zoster virus characterised by appearance of skin rash with very painful blisters). Hypericum is also useful to treat pimples when these appear on the forehead, back and hips. It can effectively deal with excruciating pain on the corns (thick, hard, skin mainly on feet due to repeated friction and pressure) and bunions (bony bump forming at the base of joint of big toe). Last feature to use it is open sores or wounds covered with dry, hard, yellow, crusts.

Key Indicating Features

Insect bites and stings

Painful scars in body tissues that are rich in scars

Corns and bunions with excruciating pain

Open sores or wounds covered with dry, hard, yellow, crusts

6. Head (Head Injury, Headache)

It is of great service to manage cases of head injury and head pain that follows it. Mainly it helps when headache occurs after a fall on the back of the head (occiput). It is attended with a specific sensation of being lifted up high in the air and the anxiety of falling from this height. Next, this medicine can help when dull/pulsating pain occurs on the top of the head (vertex) as well. It is accompanied by burning sensation on the vertex. A peculiar sensation of head being touched by icy cold hands may be felt. In some cases needing it, the headache extends to the cheeks too.

Key Indicating Features

Head injury along with headache

Headache after a fall on back of head (occiput)

7. Teeth (Injured Dental Nerves, Toothache)

For teeth, this medicine is mostly prescribed for cases of injury to dental nerves or nerve pain after a dental procedure like root canal. It is also given for managing toothache. It gives good results when there is pain in the teeth that are decayed. Pain is severe and occurs usually at night. It is relieved by lying quietly on the painful side.

Key Indicating Features

Injury to dental nerves or nerve pain after a dental procedure

Pain in decayed teeth at night

Modalities

Worsening factors: These include injuries, bites, stings, cuts, surgery, touch, pressure and exertion

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from rubbing, and lying down quietly

Dosage

It can be used in 30C and even higher potencies. In general, low potencies can be repeated often but frequent repetition of high potencies should be avoided.

Relationship With Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Arsenic Album, Chamomilla and Sulphur

It can be compared with other remedies including Aconite, Arnica, Calendula, Ledum Pal, Chamomilla and Staphisagria.

 

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Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Glossitis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 31 Comments

Inflammation of the tongue is called glossitis. In this condition, the tongue becomes red and swollen. In some cases, the papilla (small raised protrusions) on the tongue may disappear. Glossitis is attended with pain and difficulty while eating and talking.

Homeopathy holds great promise to help cases of glossitis. Homeopathic medicines magnificently reduce inflammation and swelling of the tongue along with providing remarkable relief in associated symptoms like pain and burning sensation on the tongue.

Homeopathic medicines for treating glossitis are very natural and safe to use. In mainstream medicine, the treatment for glossitis mainly includes medications like antibiotics or antifungal pills and in some cases steroid applications which may have side effects from long term use. On the other hand, homeopathy works gently to aid natural recovery and never causes any side effects at all.

Homeopathic medicines fixes the root cause

Homeopathic medicines work beyond reducing inflammation and offering symptomatic relief in glossitis. These medicines work on a deeper level to eliminate the root cause from the body to provide relief in glossitis cases. These work effectively in acute and chronic cases of various types. The time taken for complete cure varies as per chronicity, severity of problem, cause behind it and individual response to medicines.

Individualized Medication as per homeopathic principles

In homeopathy, the medicines for glossitis are selected individually for every case according to fixed homeopathic fixed principles. As homeopathy is a symptom-based science, hence homeopathic prescription varies from case to case.  Even selection of potency (power), dose and repetition of medicines is done as per homeopathic guidelines. A properly selected and prescribed homeopathic medicine following homeopathic laws proves to be highly effective in showing great results.

Natural, harmless medicines

Homeopathic medicines for glossitis are prepared from naturally occurring substances and are used in highly diluted doses. Hence, these are 100 pc safe with zero side effects. These are safe to use in all the age groups.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Glossitis

The top homeopathic medicines for treating glossitis are Merc Sol, Apis Mellifica, Belladonna, Crotalus Horridus, Nitric Acid and Natrum Mur.

1. Merc Sol – Top-grade Medicine For Glossitis

Merc Sol is a highly effective medicine for glossitis. In cases needing it, the tongue is markedly red with intense pain and burning. Pain gets worse when any drink or food touches the tongue. At times shooting pain or needle-like pricking is felt on the tongue. In some cases, ulcers and vesicles (tiny fluid-filled bumps) may be present on the tongue. The tongue is always moist with an excessive production of saliva, along with an extremely offensive smell in the mouth. There is difficulty in eating due to the inflamed tongue.

When to use Merc Sol?

This medicine should be preferred as the first line of treatment for glossitis with red tongue along with pain, burning sensation and difficulty eating.

How to use Merc Sol?

It can be used in both low and high potencies. To begin with, one may take Merc Sol 30C once or twice a day according to the intensity of the symptoms. Consider its higher potency only after consulting a homeopathic doctor.

2. Apis Mellifica – For Glossitis With A Burning Sensation

Apis Mellifica works well in cases of glossitis when it is accompanied by burning sensation. The tongue is fiery red and swollen. The tongue is dry with marked difficulty in swallowing food. At times, vesicles are present on the tongue along with a stinging sensation.

When to use Apis Mellifica?

Apis Mellifica can be used in cases where the tongue is red, swollen, dry with burning sensation.

How to use Apis Mellifica?

Though it can be used in different potencies like 30C, 200C and 1M,  usually this medicine is recommended in 30C power. Apis Mellifica 30 C can be used twice or thrice a day as per severity of the problem.

3. Belladonna – For Glossitis When Tongue Is Very Sore To Touch

Belladonna is a natural homeopathic medicine for glossitis when the tongue is extremely sore to touch. Tongue is red and dry with heat. Cracks are also present on the tongue in some cases. There may be inflammation in the entire buccal cavity (mouth) and even in the pharynx. An offensive smell from the mouth, especially in the morning, may also be noted.

When to use Belladonna?

This medicine is suggested when the tongue is sore to touch along with redness.

How to use Belladonna?

Consider using Belladonna 30C twice or thrice a day. If no changes are seen, Belladonna 200C can be used once a day.

4. Crotalus Horridus – For Glossitis When Tongue Is Fiery Red In Colour

It is an excellent medicine for glossitis when the tongue is fiery red and extremely swollen. The tongue is smooth and appears as if it has been polished. Along with this, there is fetid breath or a moldy smell in the mouth. Frothy saliva may also be noted.

When to use Crotalus Horridus?

This medicine is indicated when tongue is fiery red, smooth and looks as if polished in glossitis cases.

How to use Crotalus Horridus?

It is a strong medicine used in infrequent doses. It is advised to consider its use only after consulting a homeopath.

5. Nitric Acid – When Tongue Is Red And Dry Along With Fissures (cracks)

This medicine is useful when the tongue is red and  dry, and fissures are also visible. It is attended with pain. The tongue is so sensitive that even soft foods cause pain. Blisters or ulcers on the tongue may appear along with burning and pricking pain.

When to use Nitric Acid?

This medicine is best to handle cases where the tongue is red, dry, cracked, painful and sensitive to touch.

How to use Nitric Acid?

Its use can be done in 30C potency and the dose should be limited to just once a day. Do not self-medicate with its high potencies like 200C or 1M. Always seek homeopathic physician’s advice to use high potency.

6. Natrum Mur – For Geographic Tongue

Geographic tongue

Geographic tongue

Natrum Mur is helpful for cases of geographic tongue. In such cases, there are patches of red color on the tongue which look like a geographical map, hence the name. In some cases, ulcers or vesicles (tiny fluid-filled eruptions) appear on the tongue causing burning smarting pain. Pain gets worse when food or drink touches it.

When to use Natrum Mur?

Its use is recommended for red patchy discoloration on the tongue in geographical tongue cases.

How to use Natrum Mur?

It is available in different potencies but the most frequently used is 6X potency, to be taken three to four times a day.

Causes of Glossitis

1. An allergic reaction: This may happen from oral care products (like certain toothpastes, mouthwashes), medicines (for example medicines to treat high blood pressure), and certain food items.

2. Mouth injury: This may happen when dentures/tooth braces irritate and injure the tongue, or if there are burns or cuts on the tongue.

3. Nutritional deficiency: Iron deficiency or low vitamin B12 levels are associated with glossitis.

4. Tongue Irritation from eating spicy food, alcohol or tobacco use.

5. Mouth dryness: It is medically known as xerotomia which in some cases can be a part of Sjogren’s syndrome in which dry mouth and dry eyes are the main symptoms. Dry mouth favours the growth of bacteria that can result in an inflamed tongue.

6. Certain infections: A viral infection, like herpes simplex, may lead to tongue inflammation though its main clinical feature is blistering around the mouth. It may also occur from bacterial/fungal/yeast infection in the mouth.

7. Symptom of disease: Tongue inflammation can be a symptom of a disease like celiac disease (an autoimmune gastric condition in which eating gluten which is a type of protein found in wheat, rye, barley damages the small intestine) and pernicious anemia (a condition in which there occur decrease in red blood cells due to improper absorption of vitamin B12 by intestines).

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Glossitis?

Signs: Main signs are redness and swelling of the tongue. In some cases, the tongue looks smooth and glossy due to the loss of papillae (small bumps) from the surface of the tongue

Symptoms: Pain, tenderness and burning sensation on the tongue, and difficulty while eating or speaking.

Types Of Glossitis

1. Acute glossitis: Tongue inflammation occurs suddenly with severe symptoms

2. Chronic glossitis: Tongue gets swollen occasionally due to some underlying health condition.

3. Atrophic glossitis: Loss of multiple papillae from the tongue.

4. Geographic tongue: Map-like pattern on the tongue in which smooth red patches appear on the tongue surrounded by white borders.

5. Median rhomboid glossitis: It usually happens from a fungal tongue infection.

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Fluoric Acid: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 12 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Fluoric Acid also called Hydrofluoric Acid is prepared from chemical fluoric acid (made by distilling calcium fluoride in fine powder state with sulphuric acid). Chemical fluoric acid is inactive in its crude form. After potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines that arouses medicinal properties of a crude substance), it gets converted into a highly beneficial homeopathic medicine Fluoric Acid. It offers great help in managing hair loss, bone diseases and tooth complaints.

The ‘Fluoric Acid’ Constitution

This medicine suits well weak, thin people with pale skin. Other than this, it suits elderly people whose blood vessels have become weak and are dilated. This medicine is apt for alcoholics showing liver enlargement.

Drug Action

Fluoric acid has a marked affinity to treat hair complaints, bone diseases, skin issues and dental problems. Besides, it manifests its action on ears, eyes, throat and male genitals.

Clinical Indications

Hair fall, varicose veins, bone complaints, bone decay, exostosis, skin ulcers, scars, bedsores, keloids, varicocele, toothache, tooth decay, dental fistula, lachrymal fistula, sore throat, goitre and brittle nails.

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Hair fall

Fluoric Acid is one of the best homeopathic medicines to treat cases of hair fall. It gives brilliant results in cases of general hair fall as well as hair loss in spots (alopecia areata). According to homeopathic therapeutics, this medicine can also be considered in cases of baldness. For cases where hair fall occurs after fever, Fluoric Acid is a leading medicine. Hair fall after typhoid fever is a specific feature for using this medicine. It is also of great service in cases of dry hair, and brittle hair too where hairs breaks off easily. The hair may also be dull and lacks shine. Hair also tend to tangle often.

Key Indicating Features

General hair fall

Alopecia areata means hair fall in spots

Hair fall after fever, typhoid fever

Dry, brittle, dull hair

2. Bones (Decay, Pain, Inflammation, Exostosis)

This medicine has an extensive action on bones where it helps to treat numerous complaints. Its use is highly recommended for managing cases of bone decay (necrosis). It mainly offers helps when decay of long bones or skull is involved. Fluoric Acid gives substantial relief in case of bone pain that typically worsen at night. It is attended with marked weakness. Use of this medicine is also preferred to manage bone swelling, inflammation and pus discharge from bones. Its action in treating cases of exostosis is well marked. Exostosis (also known as bone spurs) is the growth of new bone on the surface of the existing bone. This medicine helps to dissolve the new bone.

Key Indicating Features

Bone decay especially long bones and skull bones

Bone pain at night

Bone inflammation, swelling, pus discharge from bones

Exostosis, bone spurs

3. Varicose Veins And Varicose Ulcers

With its action on veins, it can effectively deal with cases of varicose veins which refers to swollen, enlarged, twisted, engorged veins overfilled with blood. Fluoric Acid mostly helps cases of varicose veins on legs. The varicose veins are attended with itching and burning pain. Presence of varicose ulcers is yet another striking feature to use this medicine. Burning pain predominates in varicose ulcers that gets worse from heat. Last, but an important indication, to use it are varicose veins in women that worsen after childbirth.

Key Indicating Features

Varicose veins on legs

Varicose veins with itching and burning pain

Varicose ulcers with burning pain

Varicose veins in women worsening following childbirth

4. Skin (Itching, Ulcers, Scars, Keloid, Bedsores) And Nails Complaints

Fluoric Acid has been successful in treating skin and nail issues. This medicine is of great value in treating skin itching that occurs in spots which gets worse from warmth. There is dryness of skin. Skin may be cracked too along with burning sensation. It is an important medicine to heal skin ulcers. It is indicated when skin ulcers have red margins and are painful. Fluid filled eruptions (vesicles) may surround the ulcers. Heat worsens the complaint and there is relief from washing with cold water. Another characteristic feature to use it is scars that itch. It is a principal remedy for old scars which become red at edges and begin to itch great deal. Vesicles may appear on or around the scar. Fluoric Acid is a chief medicine to treat keloid (extra scar tissue growth over a healed skin wound causing a hard, firm bump). This medicine also gives excellent results in cases of bedsores that worsen from warmth. For nails it works best for distorted, crumbling nails. Corrugated nails with lengthwise ridges is another peculiar feature for employing its use.

Key Indicating Features

Keloid

Keloid

Itching in spots worse from warmth

Ulcers with red edges and pain

Itchy scars and freshening of old scars with redness at edges and itching

Keloids

Bedsores that are worse from warmth

Distorted, crumbled and corrugated nails with lengthwise ridges

5. Teeth (Toothache, Tooth Decay, Dental Fistula, Tooth Sensitivity)

It has marked action on teeth and jaws. It treatd toothache when it gets worse from cold drinks. This medicine is also used extensively for cases of rapid tooth decay. Tooth decay at roots mainly calls for this medicine use. It is a superb medicine for dental fistula where it works well when there is bloody and salty discharge. Weak, thin, deficient tooth enamel is also a noteworthy feature to use Fluoric Acid. Rest of the complaints that it can help with includes tooth sensitivity, delayed dentition and ailments from erupting wisdom teeth.

Key Indicating Features

Toothache worsening from cold drinks

Rapid tooth decay at roots

Dental fistula with bloody and salty discharge

Weak, thin, deficient tooth enamel

Ailments from erupting wisdom teeth

6. Ears (Itching, Noises In Ears, Otitis Externa)

Fluoric Acid can rectify many ear complaints.  It is used to control ear itching. Persons needing it feel burning in ear after scratching, though scratching eases itching temporarily. It also helps to manage noises in ear (tinnitus) mainly of ringing type. Next it can be given for cases of otitis externa (inflammation of the external ear canal) with excessive ear discharge.

Key Indicating Features

Ear itching

Otitis externa with copious ear discharge

7. Eyes (Lachrymal Fistula, Sand In Eye Sensation)

This medicine has shown clinical improvements in lachrymal fistula. Secondly it is useful to alleviate sensation of sand-like particle in eyes. It helps in managing itching in inner canthi, excessive eye watering and burning sensation in eyes.

Key Indicating Features

Lachrymal fistula

Lachrymal fistula

Lachrymal fistula

Sand like sensation in eyes

8. Throat (Sore Throat, Goitre)

This medicine is mainly recommended for sore throat. The throat is markedly red and swollen. There is pain in the throat while swallowing and talking. Throat feels constricted, offensive breath attends above features. There is sensitivity of throat to cold air, even a little exposure to cold air leads to throat inflammation. Other than this, it is an important medicine for goitre (swelling in the front of neck from an enlarged thyroid gland) cases.

Key Indicating Features

Sore throat with pain when swallowing

Throat inflammation from slightest cold exposure

Goitre

9. Male Problems (Varicocele, Hydrocele, Increased Sexual Desire, Gonorrhoea)

It is a valuable medicine to manage certain male problems. It is highly suitable for cases of varicocele (enlarged, dilated, swollen veins in scrotum). This medicine is also well indicated for managing excessive sexual desire in men. Violent erections may take place in the night. Gonorrhoea (sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoea) is the next remarkable indication for using it. Here urethral discharge occurs at night that stains linen yellow. Lastly it is used for hydrocele cases. Hydrocele refers to swollen scrotum resulting from collection of fluid in the sheath present around testicle.

Key Indicating Features

Varicocele and hydrocele

Gonorrhoea with urethral discharge at night leaving yellow stains

Increased sexual desire with violent erections all night

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints are worse from warmth, heat of room, rest, drinking coffee or alcohol, eating sour food.

Relieving factors: Complaints get better in open air, from walking and from cold bathing

Dosage

Depending from case to case the potency of Fluoric Acid varies from low to high. One should be careful to not repeat its high potency frequently while in low potency it can be taken frequently.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Silicea

Followed well by Graphites, Sulphur and Nitric Acid

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Spigelia: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 21 Comments

This medicine is prepared from the dried herb of plant Spigelia Anthelmia, commonly known as ‘pink root’. It belongs to family Loganiaceae. This herb is potentized according to a homeopathic formula that extracts and intensifies its medicinal properties. Then, it becomes a homeopathic medicine Spigelia which treats various health concerns like trigeminal neuralgia, eye pain, headache, and toothache.

The ‘Spigelia’ Constitution

This medicine suits weak and anemic people prone to joint problems. It is also recommended for children who suffer from worm infections, especially Ascarides.

Drug Action

This medicine has a marked affinity to treating health conditions related to nerves, face, eyes, head, teeth, gastric system and heart. Its action is more marked on the left side of the body as compared to the right side.

Clinical Indications

Facial pain, trigeminal neuralgia, headache, migraine, eye pain, glaucoma, squint, earache, tinnitus, jaw pain, toothache, worms, neuralgia, heart complaints

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Face (Facial Pain, Trigeminal Neuralgia)

Spigelia has marked action on the face and proves to be the best medicine in homeopathy to treat facial pain. It is an infallible medicine for treating trigeminal neuralgia (sudden severe shooting or electric shock-like pain on the face from pressure over trigeminal nerve or from its damage/injury). Though it can treat both sides of the face, it is more effective in treating left-sided facial pain. The nature of pain varies from case to case. It can be burning, tearing, electric-like or shooting type. The pain spreads over the left side of the face covering the temple (side) of the head, eye, cheek, and teeth. This entire area becomes sensitive to touch. There is also worsening of pain from stooping and movement and may remain from morning till night. . Pain intensifies with noises, along with watering from eyes and redness on the face.

Key Indicating Features

Left-sided facial pain located over temple (side) of head, cheek, eye and teeth

Trigeminal neuralgia mainly left-sided

2. Head (Headache, migraine)

Spigelia helps to treat headache, migraine and supraorbital headache, especially left-sided headache. The characteristic symptom to use it is pain starting from the left side of occiput (back of head) that spreads over the head and settles over the left eye. The pain is violent and pulsating, throbbing type. Stooping and opening the mouth may increase the pain. There are many other factors that worsen pain, some of which are noise, shaking the head, eye movement, bright light, touch, etc. It may be relieved from applying pressure, taking rest and from cold washing. Spigelia can be administered for treating migraine when pain is marked above the eyes (supraorbital region) on any of the sides. Pain is intense and is throbbing or stitching type. The eye may water and become red on the side affected. Spigelia is a wonderful medicine for supraorbital neuralgia (pain in the forehead above the eyes) mainly on the left side. The pain tends to worsen at the slightest movement.

Key Indicating Features

Left-sided headache that begins from the left side of occiput (back of head) and then comes upward finally settling over the left eye

Migraine with pain located above the eyes

Supraorbital neuralgia (pain in the forehead above the eyes) on left side

3. Eyes (Eyeball Pain, Cluster Headache, Glaucoma, Pterygium, Squint)

The major complaint where spigelia helps is relieving pain in the eyeball. The pain is pressive type and turning the eyes worsens it. It is also helpful when there is sharp, stabbing pain in the eyes going backward. It treats cluster headache (earlier termed as ciliary neuralgia) in which one-sided pain occurs periodically in or around the eyes, occurring regularly for a few weeks or months followed by a pain-free period. In cases needing it, redness, soreness of the eye and excessive watering from eyes is present. Glaucoma (eye condition in which optic nerve gets damaged from increased intraocular pressure) along with pain is yet another indication for using it. Spigelia can also be given for cases of pterygium (pinkish tissue growth on conjunctiva) and squint (strabismus). It is mainly useful for convergent squint in which the eye turns inward towards the nose.

Key Indicating Features

Eyeball pain worsening from eyeball movement

Cluster headache

Glaucoma with pain

4. Ears (Pain And Noises In Ear)

This medicine manages well ear pain and noises in ears (tinnitus). There is pressive type of pain in ear with plugged sensation. It can also be used for stitching type of pain in the ear. The pain can radiate from the ear to various parts of the face like cheeks, jaw, eyes, etc. It may be attended with ear discharge. In case of tinnitus, roaring, ringing or buzzing noises in the ear may be heard. At times, there is difficulty in hearing with a feeling of ears being blocked.

Key Indicating Features

Pressive or stitching type of earache

Tinnitus with roaring, ringing or buzzing noises in the ear

5. Teeth And Jaw (Toothache, Jaw Pain)

It is a highly recommended medicine for managing toothache and pain in lower jaw. It is recommended to manage pain in decayed teeth. Pain can be throbbing, digging, tearing or burning type. It gets worse from exposure to cold air, eating, taking cold drinks and at night. It is attended with pain on the face. A person may get relief from warmth or from taking warm drinks. With its action on jaw, spigelia offers relief in pain of lower jaw. The pain extends from the jaw to the ears and even to the back of the neck. A sensation as if the lower jaw would come out of its joint can occur. Pain is of tearing type. Drinking cold water worsens this pain.

Key Indicating Features

Pain in decayed teeth

Toothache that worsens at night, from cold air exposure, eating, taking cold drinks

Jaw pain that radiates to ear or nape of neck

6. Gastric Issues (Stomach Pain, Anal Itching, Inguinal Hernia, Worms)

Spigelia is capable of treating stomach pain, navel pain, inguinal hernia, anal itching and worms. There is stomach pain that can be of pressive type, or dull stitching type. Pressure, as from hard lump in the stomach, is felt with the pit of the stomach being sensitive to touch accompanied by sour belching. For navel pain, spigelia is used when there is cutting or pinching type of pain. This may be from worm infestation. Loose stool may occur along with passage of offensive gas. The abdomen feels hard and tight. It can be given for cases of worms especially ascarides. It covers well itching, tickling and crawling sensation felt in the anus. Its use is also considered in cases of inguinal hernia (bulging of intestines of fat of abdomen into groin area).

Key Indicating Features

Pressive or dull stitching stomach pain

Cutting pinching pain in navel, especially from worms

Inguinal hernia

Itching and crawling sensation in anus

Worm infestation mainly Ascarides

7. Heart (Palpitations, Stitching Pain In Heart, Pericarditis)

This medicine has a marked action on the heart to manage complaints including palpitations, stitching pain in heart, and pericarditis. For palpitations, it is used when it occurs from bending forward, from the least movement and deep inhalation. There is stitching pain in the heart attended with anxiety which gets worse from the least motion. It is also indicated for pericarditis which is the inflammation of the lining that surrounds the heart. Here, palpitation, difficult breathing and sticking pain are marked.

Key Indicating Features

Palpitations from bending forward, from least motion and deep respiration

Stitching pain in heart attended with anxiety

Pericarditis with palpitations, difficult breathing and sticking pain

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints worsen from noise, touch, motion

Relieving factors: It includes relief by lying with head high on the right side

Dosage

Use of this medicine is recommended in both low and high potency. The potency is selected depending on various factors like age of person, type and intensity of complaint, duration of complaint. In low potency, one may repeat it frequently but when used in high potency, it should be taken infrequently.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Aurum Met, Camphor, Cocculus Indicus, Pulsatilla

It antidotes: Merc Sol and Colchicum

Followed well by Arnica, Belladonna, Digitalis, Iris Versicolor, Kalmia, Rhus Tox, Zincum Met

 

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Hyoscyamus Niger: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 2 Comments

Hyoscyamus Niger is a homeopathic medicine derived from the plant ‘henbane’ and ‘hog-bean’. It belongs to Solanaceae family. When this plant undergoes potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines that arouse medicinal powers of a crude substance), we get homeopathic medicine Hyoscyamus Niger of great clinical significance. It is a leading homeopathic medicine for managing cases of increased sexual desire, mania of obscene (related to sexual matter) nature, muscle twitchings, jerking, etc.

The ‘Hyoscyamus Niger’ Constitution

This medicine suits people who get nervous or irritated easily, and are anxious by nature.

Drug Action

The main action of this medicine is seen on the mind and brain. It acts well on muscles, male and female genitals, respiratory system, urinary organs and limbs.

Clinical Indications

Nymphomania, sexual mania, mania, nymphomania, delirium, schizophrenia, alcoholism, Alzheimer’s disease, bronchitis, pneumonia, cough, chorea (neurological disorder), convulsions, epilepsy, hydrophobia, toothache, sleep disorders, syphilophobia

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Action On Mind And Brain (Lasciviousness, Nymphomania, Sexual Mania, Mania, Delirium, Schizophrenia, Alcoholism, Alzheimer’s Disease)

The most prominent and broad action of Hyoscyamus Niger is seen on the mind and brain. It can effectively manage various complaints related to mind and brain. Among these the leading feature that guides its use is lasciviousness which is a strong desire for sex. Those needing this medicine talk excessively about sex-related topics or sing amorous songs that express desire for sexual activity. They tend to fondle genitals, may take off clothes and expose genitals. It is the best homeopathic medicine for nymphomania (increased sexual desire in women).

Hyoscyamus Niger is well-known for treating cases of schizophrenia (a mental health condition affecting thinking, emotions, and behavior). Different kind of hallucinations occur like seeing or hearing things that do not exist, or delusions (fixed, false beliefs not based on reality). Those needing it suffer from some specific types of delusions, like delusion of being poisoned, being sold or being bitten, being stalked, etc. There is marked suspiciousness in them. They may be particularly suspicious of a plot being made to harm them. Another alarming symptom is talking with imaginary or dead people.

Another main indication for administering Hyoscyamus Niger is delirium (sudden change in brain leading to confused thinking and emotional disturbance). It can be given in cases of muttering delirium in which the sufferer’s speech is not understandable. There is decreased response to environmental stimuli and carphologia (lint picking of clothes or bed linen). Along with delirium, weakness is also marked. Hyoscyamus Niger is also well indicated for delirium when attended with restlessness with sudden jumping out of bed, moving from one place to another, constant talking, jerking of limbs, wild staring look. Use of this medicine can also be thought of in cases of delirium tremors that occurs in people who are trying to quit alcohol. The guiding features to use it here are delirium with aversion to light, constant talking, trembling of whole body and sensation as if a snake is wriggling towards the sufferer. Along with this, there is desire to escape, loss of appetite and sleeplessness.

Further it is an important medicine for managing mania when there is urge to bite, strike, quarrel, scold, kill and tear clothes. It is also best suited for cases of erotomania (the sufferer believes that someone is in love with him/her when there is no such thing). There may be a tendency to expose genitals.

This medicine is suitable for getting rid of certain fears. These include fear of being poisoned, being alone, water (hydrophobia), and syphilophobia (fear of being infected with syphilis i.e. a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria treponema pallidum).

Cases of Alzheimer’s disease (brain disorder where the death of brain cells occurs that leads to memory loss and gradually destroys thinking, behaviour and social skills) can also be well managed with this medicine.

Besides, Hyoscyamus Niger is a valuable medicine for cases of convulsions (fits). Here, it is given when there is clenching of fist during fits. Before convulsions, vertigo occurs, and the fit ends in deep sleep. It is a top-listed medicine for convulsions in children that occurs from fright.

Lastly, it is well-indicated for managing cases of alcoholism and drug addiction.

Key Indicating Features

Lasciviousness

Desire to fondle genitals and take off clothes and expose genitals

Nymphomania

Schizophrenia

Talking with imaginary or dead people

Delirium attended with lint-picking of clothes or bed linens, restlessness, constant talking, jerking of limbs

Mania with urge to bite, strike, quarrel, scold, kill and tear clothes

2. Male problems (increased sexual desire, lasciviousness)

Males may find this medicine highly useful for treating certain concerns. Firstly, it is highly suitable to manage increased sexual desire. Males needing it have a strong desire for excessive sexual activity. There is marked lasciviousness, which means they behave in a manner indicating increased urge for sexual activity. They may take off clothes and expose genitals frequently.

Key Indicating Features

Increased sexual desire

Lasciviousness with tendency to take clothes off and expose genitals frequently

3. Female Problems (Nymphomania, Intermenstrual Bleeding)

This medicine is also well-indicated to manage certain health concerns in females. It is a prominent medicine for cases of nymphomania in which there is excessive and uncontrollable sexual desire in females. They also show signs of lasciviousness like uncovering sexual parts. Secondly, it is useful for managing some problems during menses. These include headache, nausea and bedwetting during menses. It also helps complaints of trembling of hands and feet, and excessive sweating during menses. The menstrual bleeding may be heavy with bright red blood. Lastly, it is beneficial for managing intermenstrual bleeding (metrorrhagia). Its use is considered when during intermenstrual bleeding, the blood is bright red and there are cramps in the whole body.

Key Indicating Features

 Nymphomania i.e. excessive and uncontrollable sexual desire in females

Trembling of hands and feet; excessive sweating during menses

Intermenstrual bleeding with bright red blood and cramps in whole body

4. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Bronchitis, Pneumonia)

With its action on respiratory system, it manages cases of cough well. Cough is dry spasmodic type and it seems to occur from a dry spot in the larynx. There is tickling in the throat which incites cough. Coughing occurs at regular intervals that shakes the entire body. Cough causes weakness along with sweating. Persons needing this medicine have worsening of cough from lying down and relief from sitting up. Eating, drinking and talking also worsen the cough. Hyoscyamus Niger works well in cases of bronchitis (inflamed bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs) especially when cough is dry and persistent. It can be used to manage pneumonia (inflammation and infection of air sacs of lungs). Here it is useful when cough is dry or rattling that worsens at night and is attended with weakness. There may occur expectoration of mucus that tastes salty or is blood-stained.

Key Indicating Features

Dry cough that occurs from dry spot in larynx or from tickling in the throat

Cough worsens from lying down and gets better by sitting up

Worsening of cough from eating, drinking and talking

5. Urinary Complaints (Bedwetting, Urine Retention)

Hyoscyamus also acts well on urinary organs. It is a great medicine to manage involuntary urination. It also effectively deals with cases of bedwetting, especially in children having a brain-related medical condition. It is also well indicated for cases of retention of urine in women, specifically after childbirth. Its use is also indicated when there is frequent urination of clear water-like urine.

Key Indicating Features

Bedwetting especially in children having brain trouble

Retention of urine in women, specifically after childbirth

6. Limbs (Twitchings, Cramps, Chorea)

This medicine works wonderfully on complaints including muscle twitchings (involuntary muscle contractions), cramps, trembling, chorea (involuntary unpredictable body movements from muscle contractions). It can effectively deal with muscle twitching of face, limbs, hands and feet. Cramps in calf muscles and toes can be magnificently relieved with it. Its use is also recommended for complaint of trembling of hands and feet. For chorea, it can be given when every muscle from eyes to toes starts twitching.

Chorea

Chorea

Key Indicating Features

Muscle twitching of face, limbs, hands and feet

Cramps of calves and toes

Chorea when every muscle from eyes to toes twitches

7. Dental Problems (Toothache, Teeth Grinding)

This medicine can effectively deal with some dental issues too. The foremost indication for its use is grinding of teeth in children during convulsions (fits). Grinding is so harsh that it causes loosening of teeth. Hyoscyamus Niger gives good results in cases of pain in gums that follows tooth extraction. Its use is recommended to manage toothache that is worse in cold air. The pain in teeth may be throbbing, drawing or tearing kind that extends to the forehead. Pain is intense attended with jerking of hands, arms, fingers and facial muscles. This medicine can be of great help in cases of pressing together of gums during dentition. In such cases, children involuntarily put their fingers in their mouth.

Key Indicating Features

Teeth grinding or pressing of gums together during dentition

Toothache attended with jerking of hands, arms, fingers and facial muscles

8. Sleep Issues (Sleeplessness, Jerking)

This medicine has given great clinical results to treat sleep issues as well. The main indicative feature for its use is sleeplessness with restlessness and muscle twitching. The second guiding feature is waking out of sleep with fright. This medicine can work wonders in cases where children cry or laugh during sleep. If convulsions occur during deep sleep, Hyoscyamus gives good results. Jerking in sleep is also wonderfully dealt with by this medicine. Lastly, it helps in cases where involuntary limb movements occur during sleep.

Key Indicating Features

Sleeplessness with restlessness and muscle twitching

Crying or laughing during sleep in children

Jerking in sleep

Involuntary limb movement during sleep

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse after an emotional bout, fright, jealousy, touch, cold air, and when lying down

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from warmth, stooping, and from sitting up

Dosage

Its use can be done from sixth to 200C potency. In low potency, its frequent repetition can be done but in high potency it should not be taken often.

 

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Belladonna, China and Stramonium

It antidotes: Belladonna and Plumbum Met

Followed well by Belladonna, Pulsatilla, Stramonium and Veratrum Album

It can be compared with other remedies including Belladonna, Agaricus, Stramonium, Gelsemium

 

 

 

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Swollen Lymph Nodes: Treatment In Homeopathy, Causes And Concerns

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 32 Comments

Lymph nodes are oval or kidney-shaped glands in the body that are a part of the immune system that filter lymph (fluid containing WBCs, lymphocytes, etc). These nodes act as the first line of defense to protect us from infection-causing agents. White blood cells (WBCs) present in the lymph nodes fight the invading organisms like bacteria and  viruses. Lymph nodes filter and trap them before they can enter other body parts and cause an infection. There are around 450 lymph nodes in adults and are spread throughout the body. They are present in groups in some major parts of the body including neck (cervical lymph nodes), armpit (axillary lymph nodes), groin (inguinal lymph nodes), belly and chest. Some lymph nodes can be felt with the hands when they get enlarged or swollen. Generally, lymph nodes swell in case of an illness or infection. In rare cases, the lymph nodes tend to swell from cancer.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be very beneficial in managing cases of swollen lymph nodes. Homeopathic medicines help in reducing swelling and also managing attending pain in the lymph glands. These medicines work by treating the root cause behind it. Homeopathic medicines are selected differently in every individual case after a detailed case study. Use of homeopathic medicines is recommended only when the cause is benign (non-cancerous) and no serious cause or symptoms are present. It is advised to consult a homeopathic physician and avoid self-medication. It is to be noted that swollen lymph nodes due to a serious cause like tuberculosis, cellulitis, cancer, etc need conventional mode of treatment, as homeopathy has its own limitations.

Homeopathic Medicines For Swollen Lymph Nodes

1. Conium

It is a leading medicine in homeopathy for managing cases having swollen lymph nodes that are painful. In most cases needing it, the pain is tingling and shooting in nature.

2. Baryta Carb

Baryta Carb is yet another homeopathic medicine for cases of swollen lymph nodes. This medicine is indicated for swollen nodes in neck and axilla (armpit). Persons needing it may have tendency to catch cold easily and have sore throat. Tonsils may be enlarged.

3. Calcarea Carb

It is the next well-indicated medicine for managing swelling and pain in the lymph nodes of the neck. There is aching in these nodes with stitching pain while chewing. Secondly, it is indicated for cases of swollen mesenteric lymph nodes in abdomen.

4. Phytolacca

It is a natural medicine prepared from plant Phytolacca Decandra, commonly known as ‘poke root’ and ‘red ink plant’. It belongs to family Phytolaccaceae. It is beneficial in treating swollen tender nodes in neck, along with pain in the throat along with other symptoms. The throat is dry, rough and there is a sensation of  lump in the throat. There is a marked burning sensation in the throat with pain while swallowing. The tonsils are dark red, enlarged and swollen.

5. Merc Sol

This medicine is mainly helpful for cases having swelling of inguinal lymph nodes (in the groin). It is attended with redness, pain and sensitivity. The pain gets worse while walking and standing. It is also useful for cases of swelling of nodes in the neck. It can be accompanied with shooting and pressive pain.

6. Belladonna

It is prepared from the plant ‘deadly nightshade’. It belongs to family Solanaceae. It is well indicated for swollen nodes in the neck along with pain and heat. It may be attended with pricking or stinging type of pain. Tonsils may be red and enlarged in cases that require it. There is difficulty in swallowing followed by pain. Fever may also be there.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

It may arise from various causes.

The first reason for swollen lymph nodes is an infection mainly viral, like common cold. It may also happen in case of sinus infection/sinusitis, an inflammation of lining of the paranasal sinus which in a healthy condition is filled with air. In case the paranasal spaces get blocked and filled with fluid germs, it results in an infection.

Next reason is tonsillitis and strep throat. Tonsillitis means inflammation of tonsils which are two oval-shaped lymphatic tissue masses that lie at the back of the throat one on either side.  Strep throat refers to a bacterial infection that leads to inflammation and pain in the throat, and tonsils. It is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria.

Another cause is ear infection.

Swelling of lymph nodes can also occur in cases of measles, a viral infection caused by measles virus. It is a highly contagious infection that begins with symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, inflamed eyes and fever. This is followed by a skin rash approximately around after 14 days of virus exposure.

Mononucleosis (an infectious disease that in most cases is caused by the Epstein – Barr virus but can be caused by other viruses too) is also among one of its causes.

It may also happen in case of tooth abscess (a pocket of pus that may appear in different parts of a tooth and results from a bacterial infection).

Another cause could be cellulitis (a serious bacterial infection involving the inner layers of the skin).

HIV/AIDS (Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is yet another cause.

Swollen lymph nodes may also occur in infections, like TB (tuberculosis), toxoplasmosis, rubella, Lyme disease. Tuberculosis is a serious infectious disease affecting lungs caused by bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It mostly affects lungs but may also affect other body parts too. Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a parasite named Toxoplasma gondii. Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious viral infection caused by rubella virus. Lyme disease refers to a tick-borne disease caused by a bacteria of the type borrelia, known as Borrelia burgdoferi.

Another infection that can cause swollen lymph nodes is cat scratch fever (It is a bacterial infection that a person can contract from cats infected with bacteria Bartonella henselae).

Some of the STIs (sexually transmitted infections) like syphilis and gonorrhea can also cause it. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacterium Treponema pallidum. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection which is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

In some cases, certain medicines (like some anti-seizure medicines) can lead to it.

Other than these, it may occur in some autoimmune disorders (the immune cells in the body start to damage the body’s healthy tissue out of a misdirected response). Its first example is rheumatoid arthritis (a chronic inflammatory disorder in which there is joint inflammation with pain, swelling and stiffness of joints). The second example is SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) in which there is inflammation of the immune system which damages its own tissues that can affect joints, brain, skin, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels. Third is Sjogren’s syndrome (An autoimmune disorder having two common symptoms including dry eyes and a dry mouth).

In some cases, swelling in the lymph nodes may occur from some types of cancer, like lymphoma (a cancer of the lymphatic system). It mainly includes Hodgkin’s lymphoma, earlier called Hodgkin’s disease, Non – Hodgkin’s lymphoma) and leukemia (a blood cancer caused by an increase in the number of WBCs in the body). Swelling of lymph nodes may occur when some other cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

What Are Its Signs And Attending Symptoms?

In case of swollen lymph nodes, firstly there occurs pain and tenderness in the lymph nodes. The pain in lymph nodes may arise from certain movements also. For example, pain in the swollen lymph nodes in the neck may be felt on turning the head; swollen lymph nodes in the groin may cause pain when walking.

The lymph nodes that have swelling feel like soft and round bumps that may be small like a pea or as large as a cherry.

The swelling in lymph nodes may be accompanied by other symptoms depending on the cause behind it. Some of these include sore throat, runny nose, cough, fever, chills, night sweats, and fatigue.

The swelling of lymph nodes may occur in one part of body (localized lymphadenopathy) or lymph nodes throughout the body may swell (generalized lymphadenopathy). In case the swollen lymph node is caused by an infection and not treated on time, then there is chance of formation of an abscess (localised collection of pus).

When lymph nodes are swollen but not tender, they are hard and fixed or grow rapidly, then it can be indicative of serious issues like cancer.

The swollen lymph nodes are commonly more noticeable in the neck, groin, behind ear, under the chin, and armpits.

 

 

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Swelling On The Face? Best 10 Homeopathic Medicines, Causes And Concerns

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 8 Comments

Facial swelling can arise from minor causes that are easily treatable or can be a symptom of a serious medical problem that needs urgent medical help. Depending on the cause, there are some visible signs and symptoms that can attend facial swelling, like pain, redness and burning sensation on the face, and fever.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is helpful in managing cases of facial swelling with natural medicines. These medicines stimulate the body’s self-healing mechanism to recover wonderfully. They go deep into the root cause of the issue to bring effective cure. Homeopathic medicines for facial swelling are recommended only in mild cases. It is strictly advised to take homeopathic medicines under supervision of a qualified homeopathic practitioner. In no case should self – medication be done. If there is a serious cause (like kidney failure, heart ailment), it is advised to take urgent help from conventional mode of treatment.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Facial Swelling

1. Apis Mellifica – Top-grade Medicine

It is a leading medicine for managing facial swelling. Persons who need it have swelling and redness on the face. They have marked burning sensation on the face attending it. Along with this, one feels intense stinging pain on the face. Mostly right side of the face is affected when this medicine is required. The face looks pale and waxy. Puffiness is marked under the eyes in persons needing Apis Mellifica. Hives (eruptions) with itching, burning and stinging sensation may be present on the face. It is one of the best medicine for angioedema and bee sting. Wash the face with cold water brings relief.

2. Belladonna – For Facial Redness, Swelling, Heat

This medicine is prepared from a plant known as ‘deadly nightshade’. It is very effective for treating cases of facial swelling with red, hot and shiny face. There may be excessive sweating on the face with tearing pain in the face especially on the right side.  Swelling on the upper lip is marked. Cheeks may also be swollen with burning pain. It is a very suitable medicine for sinusitis also.

3. Calcarea Carb – For Pale Puffy Face

This medicine is well indicated for cases in which there is pale and puffy face. The eyes are sunken surrounded with blue rings. Calcarea Carb is also indicated for tearing pain in the cheeks followed by swelling. The facial pain tends to get worse from exposure to cold air. It is one of prominent medicine for treating hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).

4. Hepar Sulph – For Swelling Of Face With Vesicular Eruptions

This medicine works well in cases of swollen face with vesicular (fluid-filled) eruptions on the face. There can be burning sensation across the face. There is tearing pain that begins from the cheeks and extends to the ear or temporal region i.e. sides of the head.

 5. Merc Sol – For Swollen Cheeks With Pain In Teeth

It is a very effective medicine for cases of swollen cheeks along with toothache and increased salivation.  Persons needing it may also have red cheeks along with puffy, bloated face.  They can have tearing or lacerating pain on the face which is hot. There may be eruptions on the face, which bleed when scratched, with offensive discharge and itching.

6. Rhus Tox – For Swelling Mainly Around Eyelids And Ears

This medicine is suitable when there is marked swelling on the eyelids and the ears. The face is red with burning sensation. There can be moist eruptions on the face along with thick scabs in cases needing it.

7. Arsenic Album – For Swelling Of Upper Lip And Below Eyelids

This medicine is valuable for managing cases in which there is swelling of the upper lip and area below the eyelids. In cases requiring it, stinging pain in the face is also felt. Itching of the face may also be present.

8. Aconite – For Swollen Lower Jaw And Lips

It is prepared from plant Aconitum Napellus commonly known as ‘monkshood’. It is a useful medicine for swelling of the lower jaw and lips. The lips are dry, black or blue along with peeling of the skin. Burning and tingling sensation in the lips can attend, besides pain on the face.

9. Chamomilla – For Left-Sided Facial Swelling

This medicine is prepared from the plant Matricaria Chamomilla. This plant belongs to family Compositae. It is helpful for cases in which there is left-sided facial swelling. There is pain on the face, which appears bloated and puffy, along with heat and redness of the cheeks.

10. Arnica – For Right-Sided Facial Swelling

It is prepared from a plant Arnica Montana having common name ‘leopard’s bane’ or ‘fallkraut’. It is beneficial for persons with right-sided facial swelling, especially around the cheeks. It is accompanied by throbbing and pinching pain. In some cases needing it, stinging pain is felt in cheeks. Dry heat in the face towards the evening is also felt which extends to the ears.

What Are The Causes Behind Facial Swelling?

The reasons behind it are variable.

Firstly, it can arise from sinusitis ( inflammation of paranasal sinuses due to allergy or bacterial viral infection). It can cause swelling around the nose, eyes or the cheeks causing pain. Other attending symptoms include  headache, stuffy nose, runny nose, sore throat, poor sense of smell, fever, cough and weakness.

Second cause is a tooth infection. A person having an infection in gums or teeth can experience swelling, pain and tenderness along the jawline.

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is yet another reason behind facial swelling. A person has puffy and swollen face along with other signs and symptoms, like weight gain, fatigue, feeling cold, constipation, depression, skin dryness and weakness in the muscles.

Next cause is allergic conjunctivitis (eye inflammation due to a reaction to allergens like dust, pollen and pet dander). Its signs and symptoms include redness and itching in the eyes which may be puffy or watery.

Facial injury is also one of the reasons.

Another cause is cellulitis. It leads to swelling in the affected part of the skin along with redness and pain. Fluid may ooze out from the skin in some cases. The affected area is hot and tender to touch sometimes. Fever and chills can attend which indicates a serious infection. It is a medical emergency that needs prompt treatment under conventional mode.

Other causes include angioedema and anaphylaxis. 

Angioedema is a severe form of swelling that occurs under the surface of the skin due to an allergic reaction to allergens (like food product, insect bite, etc). A characteristic symptom is hives (raised, itchy raised bumps known as wheals that develop on the skin) that may be accompanied by stinging and burning sensation.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that needs urgent medical help because if not treated immediately can prove fatal. Its symptoms include facial swelling, breathing difficulty, swelling in throat and the mouth, rapid heart rate, a dip in blood pressure and loss of consciousness.

Another reason for swelling on the face is Cushing’s syndrome which is a disorder that arises from excessive production of cortisol hormone in the body. It may result from a drug allergy (use of anticonvulsants, antibiotics like penicillin) which is a medical emergency.

A condition called preeclampsia can arise during pregnancy that can cause swelling of the face.  This condition needs immediate medical treatment because it can prove fatal if not attended immediately. Its signs include high blood pressure and high protein level in urine. Other symptoms are swelling of the hands, headache, vision changes, pain in the upper abdomen, reduced urine output and nausea or vomiting.

Actinomycosis, a rare but long-term bacterial infection in which sores and abscesses appear in the soft tissue of the body may also lead to facial swelling.

Lastly, it can also be a sign of vital organ failure of heart, liver or kidneys.

 

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Staphysagria: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 19 Comments

Staphysagria is a homeopathic medicine derived from dried seeds of a plant Delphinum Staphysagria, commonly known as ‘stavesacre’. It belongs to Ranunculaceae family. The seeds of this plant undergo potentization process that extracts and intensifies its medicinal properties and gives a highly valuable homeopathic medicine Staphysagria.

The ‘Staphysagria‘ Constitution

It is suitable for persons who get angry easily but suppress it followed by periodic fits of anger.

Drug Action

This medicine has marked action on different body parts. These include mind, eyes, teeth, urinary organs, male organs, female genitals, back, limbs and skin.

Clinical Indications

Anger attacks, suppressed anger, styes, chalazion, tooth decay, toothache, cystitis, honeymoon cystitis, warts, backache, weak erection, prostate issues, ovarian disorders, eczema, injuries.

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Mind (Suppressed Anger, Fits Of Anger, Depression)

Staphysagria covers many complaints related to the mind. The complaint best addressed by this medicine is outbursts of violent anger. During these fits of anger, the person breaks or throws away things. These outbursts are often a result of suppressed anger over a long period of time. Eventually, a person suffers a violent fit of anger, that had previously remained unexpressed. Anger from indignation may occur which originates from injustice, anything unfair or insulting. People needing this medicine are good-natured but get hurt easily. They are highly sensitive and get offended easily. A history of deep guilt, humiliation, insult may be present in those needing it. This medicine also covers ailments that follow suppressed anger, shame, sexual abuse and acute/chronic grief.  Staphysagria helps in managing depression. Here sadness, crying, sense of worthlessness, self-pity are marked. Consolation worsens the complaints as there is low self-esteem and lack of confidence.

Key indicating features

Ailments from suppressed anger and indignation

Fits of violent anger

Ailments from shame, sexual abuse, guilt, humiliation, insult

2. Eyes (Styes, Chalazion, Nodes On Eyelids)

It is a superb medicine to manage eye complaints. Firstly, it can be given in cases of stye. It is a red, painful lump that forms on the outer edge of eyelid from bacterial infection of an oil gland. In cases needing it, the stye may be painful relieved by applying cold water. It is one of the best medicines for styes that turns into hard nodes. There can be multiple styes at a given time. Besides, Staphysagria is an infallible medicine for treating recurrent stye when one stye after another appears frequently. It is also the best medicine for treating chalazion, a condition in which a painless lump forms on eyelids due to a blocked oil gland.

Key Indicating Features

Styes that turn into hard nodes and recurrent styes

Nodes and chalazion on eyelids

3. Teeth (Toothache, Decayed Teeth, Dental Fistula, Dentition Problems)

It is an important medicine to treat cases of toothache, decayed teeth, gum swelling, dentition problems and dental fistula. It is useful for toothache that occurs in root of teeth, decayed teeth or hollow teeth if food particles lodge in the cavities. Persons may have worsening of pain from cold drinks. Touching the affected teeth may also cause pain.  The pain may radiate to ears or side of head (temporal region). It is very suitable for managing toothache that occurs specifically during menses. Staphysagria works well for decayed teeth when they have dark streaks or become black. Crumbling of teeth (breaking into small pieces) may be present too. Decay of teeth in children soon after they erupt is another prominent feature to use this medicine. It is also an effective medicine for treating dental fistula. Apart from these, Staphysagria is well-indicated for dentition problems in children. Children needing it have pale white tender gums and have a tendency to cry from the slightest pain.

Key indicating features

Toothache in decayed, hollow tooth

Decayed teeth when teeth are black or have dark streaks and crumble easily

Tooth decay soon after they erupt in children

4. Urinary System (Cystitis, Honeymoon Cystitis, Cystocele)

Staphysagria acts on urinary organs and settles many complaints related to them. It is quite useful for cases of cystitis (inflamed bladder mostly from a bacterial infection). There is burning in urethra while passing urine. Sometimes, it is felt even when not passing urine. Pain can occur after urination also. Pressure is felt on the bladder and the patient feels as if the bladder is not emptied completely. Urge to pass urine, which may be scanty or profuse, is also frequent. Urine passes in thin stream and at times drop by drop. It is a prominent medicine to deal with cases of honeymoon cystitis (cystitis that may arise in woman from doing sex for the first time or after a long period of time).  It is also indicated for bladder inflammation from having sex frequently. Women, especially newly married, having complaint of irritable/overactive bladder (it leads to frequent and an uncontrollable, sudden urge to urinate) can be treated well with this medicine. This medicine is also recommended for cases of cystocele (bulging of urinary bladder of woman into her vagina).

Key indicating features

Cystitis

Honeymoon cystitis and irritable bladder in newly married woman

5. Male problems (Erection Issues, Spermatorrhea, Increased Libido, Prostate Issues)

Many male problems can be treated with this medicine. It can help solve problem of sexual weakness, weak erection or loss of erections from excessive sex in the past. It is also suitable to treat spermatorrhea (involuntary loss of semen without an erection or sexual activity). It is accompanied by weakness and pain in the back. It is mostly suited to males who have increased sexual desire, who constantly dwell on sexual subjects and are in the habit of excessive masturbation. Staphysagria also treats prostate issues well, including prostate enlargement or prostate inflammation. There is frequent urine and urethral burning when not urinating. It is majorly indicated for long-term prostatitis in elderly people where pain extends between anus and urethra.

Key indicating features

Weak erections or loss of erections after sexual excesses

Spermatorrhea with weakness and backache

Prostate enlargement and prostatitis (mainly in elderly men)

6. Female Problems (Painful Intercourse, Increased Sexual Desire, Honeymoon Cystitis)

Staphysagria treats many female problems. It is effective in treating dyspareunia (painful intercourse) especially in newly-married women. The genitals are very painful and sensitive. It also helps to manage ovarian pain that may extend to thighs and may get worse after sex or by applying pressure. This medicine is very important to manage nymphomania (excessive uncontrollable sexual desire) or increased libido. Females needing it think excessively of sexual subjects with an increased sexual desire. It can be also given for managing vaginismus (involuntary contraction of vaginal muscles when something is entering it). Its use is also indicated for ovarian cysts and tumours. Besides these, it is suitable to treat honeymoon cystitis, irritable bladder in young married females. Last indication is complaints arising after surgery on ovaries.

Key indicating features

Painful intercourse especially in newly married woman

Honeymoon cystitis

Irritable bladder in young married females

Complaints arising after an operation on ovaries

7. Injuries (Lacerated Wounds, Injury From Sharp Instruments, Post-Surgery Pain)

Staphysagria is used to treat lacerated wounds in which skin, muscle or tissue is cut or torn. It is also useful for injuries from sharp, cutting instruments causing clean-cut wounds.  It also manages pain following surgery — pain after abdominal operations and pain after ovariotomy (surgical incision of ovaries). It covers mainly smarting, cutting or stinging type of pain post-surgery.

Key indicating features

Lacerated wounds, and injury from sharp, cutting instruments

Pain after abdominal surgeries

8. Back (Back Pain)

Staphysagria has shown good results in cases of back pain. Persons needing it mainly have this complaint in the morning before they rise. There may be tendency to have back pain after sex. Lower back pain may also occur after lifting heavy weight or when rising from the sitting position.

Key indicating features

Backache in morning before rising

Back pain after sexual activity

Lower back pain from lifting heavy weight

9. Limbs

This medicine has proven its efficacy in treating cases of crural neuralgia (thigh pain involving crural nerve). Other than this, it can be given for cases of nodes on finger joint from arthritis (joint inflammation). It is also recommended for bruised pain in calf muscles.

Key indicating features

Crural neuralgia

Nodes on finger joints from arthritis

10. Skin Complaints (Eczema, Warts, Skin Ulcers)

With its action on skin, staphysagria is capable of treating eczema, warts, herpes and skin ulcers. Eczema may be present on head, face or ears. Eruptions covered with crusts appear with yellow fluid oozing from beneath the crusts. Itching is felt in eruptions, and when scratched burning sensation is felt. On scratching, itching tends to shift to another place. For warts, it can be used for pedunculated warts that are attached to skin with a stalk and cauliflower-like warts. It works wonders in cases of herpes with dry eruption covered with scabs specifically on joints, which burn on scratching. It can be given for skin ulcers with itching, burning sensation and pain. Pain can be tearing, smarting or shooting type. Excessive pus may be discharged that smells offensive.

Key indicating features

Eczema with crust and oozing of yellow fluid

Pedunculated or cauliflower like warts

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from suppressed anger, sexual excesses, grief and tobacco use

Relieving factors: Relief is noted by taking rest at night and from warmth

Dosage

It can be used from 30 C to 1 M potency. If using it in 30 C potency, repetition can be done frequently. But in higher potencies above 200 C, frequent repetition is not recommended.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Ambra Grisea and Camphor

Followed well by Fluoric Acid, Calcarea Carb, Causticum, Lycopodium, Nux Vomica, Sulphur and Selenium.

 

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Reasons For Increased Appetite And Its Homeopathic Treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 10 Comments

Increased appetite means eating in relatively large quantities or eating more frequently. Increased appetite is medically known as hyperphagia or polyphagia. Having increased appetite once in a while is normal but if there is a drastic increase in appetite over a period of time, it can be arising from a medical reason that needs to be investigated and treated. In some cases, increased appetite may be an accompanying symptom with other symptoms depending on the cause. These include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, anxiety, depression, irritability, bloated abdomen, increased urination, increased thirst, weight loss/gain, stress, nervousness, and sweating.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be very helpful for persons complaining of increased appetite. There are numerous medicines in homeopathy that can help a person control persistent excessive appetite which help to reduce hunger gradually. Homeopathic medicines for managing it are prepared from naturally occurring substances so are very safe to use without any side effects. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine under the supervision of a homeopathic physician. In case of serious medical reasons behind increased appetite, like hypoglycaemia, homeopathy is not recommended as it is a medical emergency and if not treated properly, it can be fatal. In such a case, urgent help from conventional mode of treatment is required.

Homeopathic Medicines To Relieve Increased Appetite

1. Iodum – Top-grade Medicine

Iodum is one of the best medicines in homeopathy to manage cases of increased appetite. Persons who need it have a continued increase in appetite and they eat very frequently. If they do not eat, they feel anxious. They must eat every few hours and feel better after eating. They also eat too much during a meal with an insatiable hunger most of the time.  A characteristic feature for using this medicine is a person loses weight inspite of eating in excess and too often. It is one of the major homeopathic medicines for managing hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland).

2. Cina – When Person Feels Hungry Soon After A Meal

It is the next best medicine for controlling increased appetite. It is a natural medicine prepared from the unexpanded flower heads of a plant Artemisia Maritima belonging to family compositae. It is indicated for persons who feel hungry soon after a meal. This may happen even a few minutes after a full meal. It is attended with a feeling of emptiness in stomach. They eat food in excess but do not gain weight.

3. Lycopodium – For Excessive Eating Followed By Abdomen Distension

This medicine is prepared from a plant Lycopodium Clavatum, commonly known as ‘club moss’. The use of this medicine is considered in persons who eat in excess which is followed by bloating of abdomen. They feel hungry even when their stomach feels full. The more they eat, the more the craving for food. If they do not eat anything at that particular time, they experience headache.

4. Bryonia – For Increased Appetite With Desire To Eat Often

This medicine is prepared from roots of the plant Bryonia Alba, commonly known as ‘white bryony’ and ‘wild hops’. It is beneficial in cases where appetite rises with a desire to eat often. There may be increased desire specifically for sweets and acidic food. Along with this, there is an increased thirst for cold water and the person drinks too much water at a time.

5. Sulphur – For Headache If Person Doesn’t Eat When Hungry

It is another prominent medicine for cases of excessive appetite when a person has the desire to eat frequently without which he gets a headache. Weakness, lack of energy and need to lie down may attend it. Desire to eat sweets may be particularly present in those needing sulphur.

6. Alumen – For Increased Appetite Inspite Of Full Stomach

This medicine is indicated when a person has an increased appetite inspite of fullness in the stomach. Sometimes there is heat in the stomach which is relieved by drinking cold water. There may be dryness in the mouth and the throat.

7. Phosphorus – For Increased Appetite At Night

Phosphorus is an important medicine for cases in which there is an increased appetite at night. Hunger pangs, nausea and anxiety may be felt. Other than this, it is also indicated when hunger is felt soon after eating. Persons who require it can have an increased urge for cold drinks, cold food, ice-creams and spicy food.

8. Natrum Mur – For Excessive Hunger With  Depression

This medicine works well when there is excessive hunger along with depression. Weakness may also attend. Persons needing it have an increased craving to eat something, especially towards noon. Weakness and sleepiness may follow it. There may be excessive thirst for water along with a dry and sticky mouth. Sadness and weeping spells often accompany the above symptoms.

9. Asafoetida – For Increased Appetite With Pain In Upper Abdomen

It is a medicine helpful in cases with an excessive appetite along with pain in the upper abdomen. Persons who require it may have gas in the abdomen that pushes upward. Other than this, belching with garlic-like smell may attend it.

10. Magnesia Mur – For Increased Hunger Followed By Nausea

It is useful when there is excessive hunger followed by nausea. Person needing it has increased hunger but doesn’t know what he wants to eat.

11. Kali Phos – For Excessive Hunger In Case Of Depression

Use of this medicine is indicated when there is excessive hunger in case of depression. Persons needing it feel hungry soon after eating. They feel like eating almost every hour, and always feel tired and exhausted.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

It may simply occur once in a while from reasons like excessive physical activity (it increases calorie demand), inadequate sleep (it can affect appetite-regulating hormones), and stress (increases cortisol hormone that leads to increased hunger and craving for food). It may occur from dietary changes like eating food that is deficient in proteins and fats, as these nutrients make a person feel full and satiated. In children and adolescents, it is normal to have an increased appetite as calorie demand increases in the growing up years. It may also occur in persons who are in the recovery stage of any surgery because it increases calories requirement and in turn, causes increased appetite to fulfill that need.

However, if a person has been having a persistently increased appetite over a long period of time, then there can be some medical reasons behind it.

It firstly includes hyperthyroidism and Grave’s disease. Hyperthyroidism refers to a condition in which the thyroid gland produces hormone thyroxine in excess. It speeds up the body metabolism. It can cause an increased appetite, weight loss inspite of an increase in appetite, palpitations and irregular heartbeat. Other than these, it can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, nervousness, tremors, increased sensitivity to heat, sweating, diarrhea, fatigue, changes in the menstrual cycle, brittle hair, muscle weakness and an enlarged thyroid gland. Graves’ disease is an immune system disorder in which there is an increased production of thyroid hormones causing hyperthyroidism.

Second cause can be diabetes, frequent hunger is an important symptom of diabetes. It is attended with its other symptoms like increased thirst, increased urination, weakness and weight loss.

Next reason that may lead to it is bulimia nervosa. A person eats too much food at a time followed by self-induced vomiting or purging to get rid of consumed food, shed calories and prevent weight gain. The desire to eat is uncontrollable. Persons affected with this problem have a fear of gaining weight and the foremost thought in their mind is that they are fat. They may have depression and mood swings too. They can have weakness, gastric issues (like indigestion, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation and bloating), and tooth damage or staining of teeth from stomach acid that rises up while vomiting.

People afflicted with psychological conditions like depression and anxiety disorder can also exhibit a symptom of high appetite. Depression is a mood disorder in which a person feels persistently sad and loses interest in activities that he/she once enjoyed, which interferes with mental well-being and daily life.

In anxiety disorders, there is intense and persistent fear and worry about something.

It may also occur in case of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar levels).

Apart from these, females may have an increased appetite during pregnancy, breastfeeding or PMS (premenstrual syndrome) — a condition affecting a woman’s behaviour, emotions and physical health prior to the periods. It can cause increased appetite along with other signs and symptoms, like bloated abdomen, headache, acne, sadness, anxiety, irritability, depression, emotional outbursts, breast soreness, constipation or diarrhea.

Lastly, taking certain medicines like antidepressants, and corticosteroids may lead to increased hunger.

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Homeopathic Medicines To Get Rid Of Bad Taste In Mouth

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 12 Comments

A bad taste in the mouth is something that everyone experiences at some time or the other.  It is temporary and tends to go away after brushing the teeth and cleaning the mouth. But in some cases, the bad taste in the mouth persists and doesn’t go away even after usual brushing and cleaning. In such cases, there may be some underlying cause that needs to be diagnosed and treated to get rid of this bad taste.

Every person experiencing it defines the bad taste differently. Some may say it is a metallic taste, while for some, it is a bitter taste, some others may describe it as foul, sour, salty or sweet taste.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic medicines for treating this complaint are prepared from naturally occurring substances, so are very safe to use without any side effects and aid gradual recovery. The most suitable medicine for every case of bad taste in mouth is selected individually based on the case details. So it is advised to take medicines under the guidance of a homeopathic physician after detailed case evaluation.

Homeopathic Medicines To Get Rid Of Bad Taste In Mouth

1. Merc Sol – Top-Grade Medicine

Merc Sol is a very effective medicine for managing bad taste in mouth. It works well when there is metallic, putrid, bitter, or sweetish taste in the mouth.  Excessive salivation may be present with this. Next, there may be complaint of offensive breath.  It is a well-indicated medicine for managing many conditions like gingivitis, tonsillitis,  sinusitis, thrush, tooth decay, dental cavities, etc. So the cases that require it may also have sore throat, inflamed tonsils, swollen gums, mouth sores/ ulcers.

2. Pulsatilla – For Bad Taste Mainly In Morning

It is a natural medicine prepared from a plant Pulsatilla Nigricans, commonly known as ‘wind flower’. This plant belongs to family ranunculaceae. It is indicated for cases in which there is bad taste in the morning time. With this the tongue may be coated white. Next, there can be loss of appetite and nausea. Mouth dryness may attend it. In some cases, bitter taste, sweetish taste or burnt taste in mouth is present. Other than this, there may sometimes be greasy taste in mouth.

3. Nux Vomica – For Sour Taste In Mouth

It is helpful when there is sour taste in mouth. It can occur after eating or drinking. It may also be present in the morning. There may be mouth dryness with this. In some cases, small ulcers may be present in the mouth and throat with putrid smell. Sour or bitter belchings, regurgitation of food and heartburn are some symptoms that can accompany.

4. Arsenic Album – For Bitter Taste

Use of this medicine is considered for cases of bitter taste in mouth. This is mostly felt after eating and drinking. Other than this, it is also used for unpleasant or woody taste in mouth. Lastly, it is useful for cases having sweetish taste in the throat.

5. Nux Moschata – For Bad Taste And Dry Mouth

This medicine is prepared from powdered seeds of plant nutmeg. It belongs to family myristicaceae. It is beneficial for those who have a bad taste in mouth and a dry mouth. They may have a foul taste, earthy, chalky or slimy taste in mouth. Sometimes bitter or sour taste is present too. The mouth and tongue are very dry. Dryness is so marked that the tongue sticks to the roof of the mouth. Saliva feels like cotton in the mouth. Next, there is white-coated tongue and bad smell from mouth.

6. Natrum Phos – For Acid Taste In Mouth And Acid Reflux

This medicine works well for cases having acid taste in mouth. It is one of the best medicines for managing acid reflux also. Those needing it frequently complain of heartburn, sour belchings, sour vomiting and heaviness in the stomach. Along with the above symptoms, there may be yellow creamy coating at the base of tongue.

7. Borax – For Bitter Taste, Mouth Sores And Oral Thrush

This medicine is valuable for managing bitter taste in mouth, mouth sores and oral thrush. The food tastes bitter to the persons who require it. Even the saliva may taste bitter. They can have sores in the mouth especially in the cheeks and on the tongue. These are painful and may bleed easily. The tongue may be cracked. It is a very suitable medicine for managing cases of oral thrush.

8. Natrum Carb – For Metallic Taste In Mouth

It is an important medicine to manage metallic taste in mouth.  A constant dryness of mouth and lips can be present where it is required. There is marked burning sensation on the tip of tongue. Next, there can be redness and soreness in mouth with painful blisters.

9. Belladonna – For Putrid Taste In Mouth, Sore Throat, Tonsillitis

This medicine is prepared from plant commonly known as ‘deadly nightshade’. It belongs to family solanaceae. This medicine is recommended for managing putrid taste in mouth. In cases needing it, there may be sore throat or tonsillitis. The throat and tonsils are inflamed, red, shiny and painful where it is required. There is pain in the throat and tonsils along with this. Throat may feel dry. Sometimes cough can attend it.

10. Calcarea Carb – For Salty, Sour Taste

This medicine is indicated to manage salty and sour taste in mouth. Dryness in the mouth at night can be present. There may be heat in the mouth. Its use is also indicated for a taste like that of ink or iron in mouth. An unpleasant taste in mouth with cough is another indication.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

It can simply be arising from eating food having strong taste (for eg, garlic) or poor oral hygiene, but there are other reasons too including medical conditions.

Sometimes taking vitamins and supplements may bring metallic taste in the mouth. For example, calcium, iron, zinc and copper supplements.

Use of some medicines (like antihistamines, antidepressants, anti inflammatories, antibiotics) may cause metallic or bitter taste in the mouth.

Cancer treatment including chemotherapy and radiotherapy may also leave a bad taste in the mouth, including metallic and sour taste.

It can also occur in cases of dry mouth. Dry mouth is medically known as xerostomia that occurs from lack of saliva in the mouth. Saliva helps to decrease bacterial growth in the mouth and removes food particles from the mouth. In case of reduced saliva in the mouth, the bacteria overgrow and food bits may remain there leading to a bad taste in the mouth. Dry mouth can happen from various reasons like taking certain medications, advancing age and use of tobacco. But in some cases, it can arise from blocked nose leading to mouth breathing and some medical conditions like diabetes, nerve damage, and some auto-immune diseases.

There are other medical conditions that can lead to bad taste in the mouth.

First medical condition is dental problems. These include gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), tooth decay, dental cavities, infection, dental abscess (a pocket of pus that can occur at different regions of the tooth). In cases of dental issues, other symptoms that can occur are swelling/ redness of the gums, bleeding gums, bad breath and sensitive teeth.

Second medical condition is oral thrush (an infection in the mouth with fungus known a candida albicans). It is also known as oral candidiasis. It can cause bad taste in the mouth in addition to its other symptoms. Such symptoms include redness, soreness, pain in the mouth, burning sensation in the mouth, cotton like feeling in the mouth, white sores in the mouth mostly on the tongue and inner cheeks, slight bleeding from these sores, cracks at the corners of the mouth and difficulty in swallowing.

Third cause is acid reflux (a condition in which the stomach acid rises up into the food pipe back from the stomach and flows upwards). It can cause sour taste in mouth along with its other symptoms, like heartburn, nausea, vomiting, pain in upper abdomen, sore throat and cough.

Fourth reason is respiratory infections mainly viral infections. These include colds, tonsillitis (inflammation of tonsils that are the two oval shaped mass of lymphatic tissue present at the back of the throat one on each side), sinusitis (inflamed paranasal sinuses which are air filled spaces in skull). Along with bad taste, the other symptoms of these conditions include sore throat, nasal blockage, PND (post nasal drip), headache, facial pain.

Hepatitis B (a viral infection of liver) can also result in bitter taste in the mouth along with other symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, fever.

Next, it may occur from hormonal changes in women like during pregnancy and menopause.

Lastly, it may occur in some of the neurological conditions. For example,  epilepsy (tendency to have recurrent seizures means fits), dementia (loss of memory and decline in thinking and  other mental abilities), brain tumours.

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