Search Results for: phlegm

Homeopathic Treatment for Phlegm in the Throat

Mucus produced by the lining of the respiratory system and discharged through the mouth is called phlegm. It occurs because of inflammation or disease of the airway. There can be various causes of phlegm in the throat. The most common reasons are cold, allergies, sinusitis, hay fever, postnasal drip, tonsillitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, overuse of voice and cigarette smoking. The color of the phlegm coughed up as sputa vary from white to yellow and green. In some cases, it may also be bloodstained. This problem can be dealt very efficiently with the help of treatment for phlegm in the throat. Homeopathy for a particular case of phlegm in the throat should be selected individually. The nature of phlegm, its cause, and other symptoms need to be dealt with together when deciding on the homeopathic medicine to be used. Homeopathic treatment for phlegm in the throat helps clear out the infection.

Using the accurately selected homeopathy medicine for phlegm in the throat can cure even the most chronic and rigid cases. Among the extremely effective homeopathic treatment for phlegm in the throat are Argentum Nitricum, Kali Bichrome, Kali Carb, Argentum Metallicum, Kali Mur, Silicea, Pulsatilla, Phosphorus, and Psorinum.

Best Homeopathic Treatment for Phlegm in the Throat

1. Argentum Nitricum – For Phlegm With Marked Hawking

Argentum Nitricum is one of the most effective treatment for phlegm in the throat. It gives great results for phlegm in throat accompanied by intense hawking. The mucus in the throat is thick, and there are rawness and roughness in the throat. Splinter-like sensation in the throat may also be present. Other symptoms are a burning feeling and dryness in the throat and the fauces. Argentum Nitricum is also very effective in cases of phlegm in the throat because of smoking.

2. Kali Bichrome – For Tough and Stringy Phlegm In the Throat

Kali Bichrome leads the list of treatment for phlegm in the throat in cases where the phlegm is tough and stringy. It sticks to the throat and detaches with much difficulty. The throat is also red and inflamed. A cough may arise from sticky phlegm in the throat. Relaxation of the uvula is also a possibility. Kali Bichrome is an excellent treatment for cases of phlegm in the throat caused by sinusitis. In such situations, a post nasal drip of mucus in the throat is the most prominent symptom.

3. Kali Carb – For Phlegm Hard to Swallow or Hawk Up

Kali Carb is another often used medicine for phlegm in the throat. It is an excellent remedy in cases where the phlegm in the throat is hard to swallow or hawk up. The phlegm remains stuck in the throat. Its accumulation is worse in the mornings and is also accompanied by a hard cough. There is also tickling in the throat which leads to a cough. The phlegm in the throat is like a lump and is unpleasant in nature. There can also be a stinging or stitching pain in the throat.

4. Argentum Metallicum – For Phlegm from Overuse of Voice

The complaint of phlegm in the throat of persons from overuse of voice – like singers and public speakers – is successfully cured with Argentum Metallicum. Symptoms include the need to hem and hawk while talking. The phlegm expectorated is gelatinous and sticky, like boiled starch, and is most commonly and freely coughed up in the morning. Another prominent symptom is hoarseness of voice.

5. Kali Mur, Silicea, Pulsatilla, Phosphorus, and Psorinum – Other Effective Medicines for Phlegm

Kali Mur, Silicea, Pulsatilla, Phosphorus and Psorinum are excellent remedies for phlegm in the throat. Kali Mur is useful in cases where the phlegm coughed up is white or milky white. Silicea and Pulsatilla are homeopathic cures in cases where the phlegm is yellow and greenish in colour respectively. Phosphorus gives excellent results in cases where the sputa are blood stained. Psorinum is a well indicated homeopathic medicine when the phlegm is nasty smelling and has a disgusting taste.

Top 9 Homeopathic Medicines For Cough And Cold

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

Homeopathic Management

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

Homeopathic Medicines For Cough And Cold

1.Aconite – Topmost Medicine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Spongia – For Cold And Dry Cough

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

8. Allium Cepa – With Intense Sneezing

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

9. Euphrasia – For Cold, Cough And Eye Watering

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

What Causes White Spots On Tonsils And Its Homeopathic Remedies

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

Homeopathic Management

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

Homeopathic Medicines For White Spots On Tonsils

1. Hepar Sulph – For White Pus Spots On Tonsils

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

2. Merc Sol – With Foul Breath And Excessive Salivation

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

3. Kali Mur – For White Or Grayish White Spots

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

4. Phytolacca – With Burning Sensation In Throat

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

5. Baryta Carb – For Pus Spots On Tonsils

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Homeopathic Management

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

Homeopathic Medicines For Chest Congestion With Breathing Difficulty

1. Arsenic Album – Top Grade Medicine

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

2. Hepar Sulph – With Thick Yellow Expectoration

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

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

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

4. Ipecac – With Chest Constriction Worse From Least Movement

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

5. Silicea – With Chest Pain On Deep Breathing

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

6. Pulsatilla – With Yellowish Green Expectoration

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

7. Bryonia – With Chest Pain

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

Homeopathic remedies for yellow mucus in nose, throat and lungs

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

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

Homeopathic Treatment For Yellow Mucus

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

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Relieving Yellow Mucus

1. Pulsatilla – Top Most Medicine

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

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

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

3. Hepar Sulph – For Rattling Cough With Yellow Expectoration

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

4. Hydrastis – For thick yellow discharges

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

5. Calcarea Carb – For Yellow Discharge With Nasal Blockage

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

6. Silicea – For Thick, Yellow Offensive Mucus Discharge

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

7. Lycopodium – For Thick, Yellow Discharge

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

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

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

9. Kali Sulph – For Yellow Sticky Discharge

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

What causes yellow mucus?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Editor 1 Comment

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

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

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

Homeopathic Medicines For Mucus In Chest

1. Antimonium Tart – Top Grade Medicine

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

2. Arsenic Album – With Wheezing Or Whistling From Chest

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

3. Ipecac – When Cough With Vomiting Attends

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

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

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

5. Pulsatilla – When There Is Yellow Or Green Mucus

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

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

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

7. Phosphorus – For Blood-Stained Mucus

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

8. Silicea – For Thick, Yellow Lumpy Mucus

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

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

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

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

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

Causes of Mucus in Chest

1. Infections

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

2. COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

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

3. Pneumonia

Infection that causes inflammation of air sacs of lungs.

4. Asthma

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

5. Allergies

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

6. Acid reflux

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

7. Smoking

8. Cystic fibrosis

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

Cough at night? Top Homeopathic medicines for relief

By Editor 2 Comments

Cough is the body’s protective mechanism to clear the airway of any dust, smoke, mucus and any microbes (like virus, bacteria). Though cough can trouble a person regardless of time, certain kinds of cough get worse at night. Cough at night (also called nocturnal cough) is distressing that keeps a person awake disturbing night’s rest that can be very exhausting and impact the day’s activities. At night, while lying down flat, the mucus, acid and other irritants find it easier to rise to the throat which is one of the factors that can make cough worse. Besides, the quality of air in the bedroom at night also affects coughing, basically dry indoor air can irritate nose and throat and worsen cough.

Depending on the cause, cough may be attended by sputum production, expectoration (clear, yellow, green, brown or blood stained), wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain, stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, heartburn, burping, night sweat, fever. PND (post nasal drip), GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), asthma, allergies, cough from cold or flu are some of the main reasons for worsening cough at night.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathy proves highly effective in managing such cases of cough. The homeopathic medicines target the root cause of the problem to bring long term improvement in cases of cough. These medicines boost the body’s own healing mechanism to fight back the disease and bring self-recovery in the most natural way. Homeopathic medicines are of natural origin with zero side-effects so are safe to use among persons of all age groups.

Homeopathic Medicines For Cough At Night

1. Drosera –Top Grade Medicine

Drosera is a top-listed medicine to manage cases of cough at night. Its use is highly recommended for persons having cough that starts immediately after lying down at night. Cough forces them to sit up in bed. The cough is entirely absent during daytime. In cases requiring it the cough is usually dry irritative type. In some cases, however, yellow expectoration occurs. There are fits of coughing. One attack of cough is soon followed by another. At the end of the cough, vomiting may occur. This medicine is of great help to manage night time cough in children who start coughing as soon as they hit the bed.

2. Sambucus – For Cough With Breathing Difficulty In Children

Sambucus is highly useful for managing cough with breathing difficulty in children at night (means suffocative cough). Children needing it suddenly wake up at night with coughing, breathing trouble and excessive sweating. Such attacks of cough occur more specifically around midnight. There is excessive crying in children. Whistling sound from chest may occur. Sambucus is well indicated for asthma attacks at night in children. Blockage of nostrils may be marked in cases needing this medicine.

3. Cina – For Cough Ending In Vomiting In Children

Cina is an excellent medicine for managing violent cough occurring in children at night when cough ends in vomiting (means spasmodic cough). The children needing it have cough occurring continuously which ultimately leads to vomiting. Tears appear in eyes along with difficult breathing. The cough is dry and occurs in fits in between intervals.

4. Belladonna – When Cough Is Short, Dry, Tickling

Belladonna is a very effective medicine for managing short, dry, tickling cough that occurs at night. The cough wakes the sufferer from sleep. A very characteristic feature is renewal of cough even from the slightest movement in bed. Cough is attended with pain in head, along with tearing pain in chest. A sensation of inhalation of dust prevails in most cases. This medicine is of great use in case of cough related to sore throat and enlarged tonsils. Belladonna can be highly beneficial for managing cough in children. In children needing it, dry cough tends to wake up the child and child tends to cry before coughing. Cough may be attended by grinding of teeth.

5. Arsenic Album – For Cough After Midnight (12:00 am)

For cough that troubles a person after midnight (means after 12:00 am), Arsenic Album is the top-grade homeopathic medicine. Though this medicine can be given for any sort of cough but especially of most help in cases of asthmatic cough. Those needing it have to sit up as soon as cough begins at night. Cough is mainly dry in nature. It is accompanied by shortness of breath, oppression of chest and whistling/wheezing sound from the chest. Inclining the chest forward brings relief. Before coughing, anxiety and restlessness may occur. Cough is followed by excessive sweating and marked weakness.

6. Rumex – For Dry, Tickling Cough Preventing Sleep

Rumex is an important medicine to manage dry, tickling cough that prevents sleep. Cough seems to trigger from irritation in the throat. Cough gets worse while lying on left side. For cough occurring around 11:00 pm, Rumex is a specific remedy. Cough also worsens from inhaling cold air and talking.

7. Conium – For Continuous Dry Cough

Conium is very suitable for cases of dry cough occurring almost continuously during night. It wakes up the sufferer frequently disturbing sleep. The sufferer gets exhausted. Cough occurs from a dry spot in larynx or from irritation in throat pit / chest. It is accompanied with intense headache in most cases. Watery nasal discharge is also commonly present. Stitching type of pain in the sides of the chest is also felt. Conium is a prominent medicine for cough, following influenza. In such cases the cough may occur continuously until vomiting occurs.

8. Ipecac – When Vomiting Attends Cough

Ipecac is a very suitable medicine to manage cough at night attended with vomiting. There is excessive rattling of phlegm in chest. In most cases, cough gets worse after eating meal at night. Cough seems to get excited from taking each breath. There may occur a fit of cough that ends with vomiting.

9. Antimonium Tart – When Cough Is Loose Rattling Type

Antimonium Tart works wonderfully in cases of loose rattling cough at night. It seems as if chest is full of mucus but only less is expectorated. It is accompanied with suffocation. Persons who require this medicine have to sit up to cough or breathe. At times, vomiting occurs with cough. A very unique feature is relief in cough by lying on the right side. The cough is violent that shakes the entire chest. Headache and marked exhaustion occurs. This medicine is very helpful in bronchitis cases. There occurs thick, white expectoration in cases needing it.

10. Kali Bichrome and Corallium Rubrum – For Cough With Marked Post Nasal Drip (PND)

PND is one of the main causes of night time coughing. To deal with it, two most important homeopathic medicines are Kali Bichrome and Corallium Rubrum. These medicines work in reducing PND to bring relief in the cough related to it. Corallium Rubrum is considered for fits of dry, short, rapid, suffocative cough. There occur almost continuous fits of coughing. One coughing fit is soon followed by another quite rapidly. There is profuse dripping of mucus from posterior nares into the throat. Kali Bichrome is used when the mucus dripping in throat is very thick, sticky and ropy (can be drawn into threads) in nature.

11. Carbo Veg and Natrum Phos – To Manage Cough With Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is another important cause behind coughing at night. For managing this issue, Carbo Veg and Natrum Phos are leading medicines. These medicines basically help to treat the root cause i.e, acid reflux to relieve cough. In cases needing Carbo Veg, there occurs short, dry, hard cough especially before midnight. Mucus is felt in throat at night that cause choking sensation on coughing. It gets better by moving or sitting up. In addition, acid reflux symptoms like heartburn, sour burps are present. Natrum Phos is useful for cough from tickling in throat attended with hawking and chest pain. Acid reflux symptoms like heartburn, sour burps appear, and vomiting of sour matter is also there.

Conditions that cause worsening of cough at night or when lying down are:

It can occur from disease of airway (upper or lower), GIT or cardiovascular system. Various causes are enumerated below:

1. Post nasal drip (PND) – It refers to dripping of mucus from the back of the nose into the throat. This mucus irritates nerve endings in the throat, exciting cough. PND can be an attending symptom in cases of cold, nasal allergy, sinusitis.

2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

It refers to the back flow of stomach acid into food pipe. The stomach acid can rise up on lying down at night causing cough as soon as one lies down in bed.

3. Cough related to Cold and Flu (viral infection of upper respiratory tract – URTI) and allergies

4. Bronchitis (inflamed bronchial tubes that carry air to and from lungs), asthma (respiratory disease characterized by difficult breathing, wheezing and coughing), cough variant asthma (asthma presenting with only cough usually a dry, non-productive and constant cough), bronchiectasis (permanent enlargement of parts of airway of lungs leading to mucus build up), tuberculosis of lung (infection caused by bacteria mycobacterium tuberculosis)

5. Chronic tonsil enlargement

6. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID -19)

7. Nerve problem – neurogenic cough arising by irritation of nerves supplying larynx

8. ACE inhibitors (medicine to treat high blood pressure)

9. In some cases, the reason could be more serious needing urgent medical help such as:

a). Heart failure

b). Lung cancer

c). Severe lung infection (Pneumonia)

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

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 14 Comments

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

Drug Action

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

Clinical Indications

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

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

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

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

Key Indicating Features

Infection of outer ear canal or middle ear

Ear discharge (otorrhoea) of white color

Earache and difficulty in hearing from swollen and congested middle ear

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

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

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

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

Key Indicating Features

Cold with thick, white, profuse discharge from nose

Frontal sinusitis with white mucus discharge from nose

Nasal bleeding in afternoon or at night

3. Throat Issues (Sore Throat, Tonsillitis)

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

Key Indicating Features

Sore throat with greyish white coating in throat along with ulcers

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

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

4. Head (Headache, Dandruff)

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

Key Indicating Features

Sinus headache with hawking of white mucus

Headache with vomiting of white phlegm

White dandruff in excess that falls as small flakes with itching

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

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

Key Indicating Features

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

Oral thrush with white ulcers in mouth

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

Tongue coated greyish white, thick, sticky and slimy

6. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Bronchitis, Pneumonia)

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

Key Indicating Features

Cough with thick, white sputum expectoration

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

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

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

Key Indicating Features

Joint pain during movement or at night with marked swelling

Cold hands and feet

Stiff hands while writing

Modalities

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

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

Dosage

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

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Belladonna, Hydrastis, Calcarea Sulph and Pulsatilla

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

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

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

Rumex Crispus: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

Homeopathic medicine Rumex Crispus is prepared from a plant named ‘yellow dock’. It belongs to family Polygonaceae. The fresh root of this plant is potentised as per homeopathic formula that extracts and intensifies its medicinal properties. Following this, it becomes a homeopathic medicine Rumex Crispus of great service in treating certain health concerns. It is one of the best homeopathic medicine for managing cases of dry cough.

The ‘Rumex Crispus’ Constitution

This medicine is well suited to persons prone to suffer from respiratory complaints mainly dry cough.

Drug Action

Among its entire sphere of action, the most important action is seen on respiratory system. It also has marked action on larynx, throat, and skin. Lastly, it acts well on the gastric system.

Clinical Indications

Cough, asthma, sore throat, trachea disorders, skin itching, aphonia (loss of voice), acne (pimples), diarrhea, flatulence, heartburn, nausea, tuberculosis

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Respiratory System (Cough, Asthma, Lung Pain)

Rumex acts wonderfully on the respiratory system. It is a highly suitable medicine for managing cough. The foremost indication for using it is dry cough caused from tickling in the throat. The cough may also arise from touching or pressing the throat pit. The persons needing it mainly have worsening of cough from talking and at night. They have dry cough at night that prevents sleep. Another characteristic feature to use it is cough from temperature change either from cold to warm or warm to cold. The cough occurs from inhaling cold air as well. On inhaling cold air, there is constant urge to cough. Though cough most of the time is dry but in some cases, there is expectoration of either thin or tough stringy phlegm. Along with cough, there may occur headache and chest pain. There is marked weakness along with cough. Its use can be done in cases of cough that is severe accompanied with involuntary urination. Rumex is also used in asthma cases. Here it is helpful when there is cough with rattling in the windpipe with accumulation of tough mucus in the chest and excessive difficulty in breathing. Cough is very hard causing suffocation. Soreness is felt behind the sternum (breast bone). Weakness is experienced after the asthmatic attack. Besides, it can be given in cases of stitching or shooting pain in the left lung. Lastly, it is well indicated to manage cough at night in cases of tuberculosis.

Key Indicating Features

Dry cough caused from tickling in the throat

Cough from talking and at night

Cough from temperature change either from cold to warm or warm to cold

Cough from inspiring cold air

2. Throat And Larynx (Lump In Throat, Hoarseness, Aphonia)

It has prominent action on throat and larynx (voice box). It is firstly helpful for managing rawness in the larynx and trachea. This medicine works well for cough caused by irritation in the larynx. A scraping sensation in the throat is felt too. It offers help in cases of lump sensation in the throat. Either hawking or swallowing does not relieve it. This medicine gives good results if there is hoarseness of voice which mostly occurs in the evening. It also suits cases of tenacious sticky mucus in the larynx with a constant desire to hawk. This complaint gets worse in cold air and at night. Due to tough mucus in the larynx there is constant cough. Pain in the larynx is felt while eating. Aphonia (loss of voice) from exposure to cold is yet another prominent indication for its use.

Key Indicating Features

Lump sensation in the throat not relieved by either hawking or swallowing

Voice hoarseness in evening

Tenacious sticky mucus in the larynx with constant desire to hawk and cough

Aphonia from cold exposure

3. Skin (Itching, Acne)

This medicine is valuable to manage certain skin complaints. The primary indication for using it is skin itching which gets worse from exposure to cold air, and while undressing. Itching is mostly marked on the legs. It is also well-indicated to treat acne (pimples) on the back. It also gives excellent results in cases of stinging, prickling sensation on skin.

Key Indicating Features

Itching worse from cold air exposure and when undressing

Acne on back

Stinging and prickling sensation on skin

4. Gastric System (Diarrhea, Gastritis, Pain Abdomen)

With its action on the gastric tract, it proves to be highly effective for managing diarrhea (loose motion) in morning. There is watery, brown stool in early morning with marked urgency making the patient to rush immediately to pass stool. The stool is profuse, watery with foul smell without any pain. Anal itching is felt. Rumex is a beneficial medicine for cases of gastritis (stomach inflammation). Here it is given for long-term cases when there is aching pain in the pit of stomach. Fullness and pressure is felt in the stomach extending to throat pit. Sometimes there is shooting pain in the pit of the stomach extending to chest. This medicine is also used for pain in stomach extending to back. Nausea and heartburn can be present too. Another prominent symptom is pain in abdomen from gas soon after eating.

Key Indicating Features

Early morning diarrhea

Chronic gastritis with aching pain in the pit of stomach

Pain in abdomen from gas soon after eating

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse in cool air, inhaling, deep breathing, motion, talking, from pressure on trachea, eating, weather change, in evening and at night

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from wrapping up and covering mouth

Dosage

It can be used in low to high potency varying from case to case. While using this medicine, it should be kept in mind that in low potency it can be repeated often, but in high potencies it should not be taken frequently.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Camphor, Belladonna, Hyoscyamus, Conium, Lachesis and Phosphorus

Followed well by: Calcarea Carb

It can be compared with Causticum, Sulphur and Belladonna

Homeopathic Treatment for a Dry Cough

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 70 Comments

Cough is a common reflex action to clear the breathing passages and airways. A dry cough refers to a cough free from mucus or phlegm also known as non – productive cough. A dry cough is annoying and troublesome and makes a person restless. In some persons, dry cough occurs in a continuous spasm, making the person anxious. It may also cause difficulty in breathing and sleeping. A dry cough is very common in children and sensitive people.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathy works at a dynamic level on a person. The advantage of homeopathic medicines is that they stop the recurring tendency of the disease. These medicines are made up of natural substances and are very safe. Other conventional treatments distort the body’s natural healing processes and make the body dull. In homeopathy, the body’s restorative processes are used to bring it back to health. These medicines do not cause any side effects or slow down body processes.

Homeopathic Treatment For A Dry Cough

Top grade homeopathic medicines for a dry cough are Bryonia, Drosera, Spongia, Rumex, and Belladonna.

1. Bryonia – Top Medicine For Dry Cough

Bryonia is the top-most medicine for managing cases of dry cough. On coughing, pain may occur in head and chest. The pain is mainly stitching type. It feels as if the head and chest would break into pieces from pain. Pain may also be felt in abdominal muscles while coughing. The cough worsens from eating or drinking. At times, vomiting of food occurs while coughing. Bryonia is also indicated when cough increases when a person enters a warm room.

When to use Bryonia?

Bryonia is the most commonly used medicine for treating dry cough which can be considered as the first remedy in case of dry cough. It is a short-acting medicine that can be repeated frequently.

2. Drosera – For Dry Cough At Night

Drosera is a natural medicine prepared from plant ‘round-leaved sundew’. It is the most important medicine to manage dry cough that gets worse at night. A very peculiar feature to use this medicine is cough as soon as a person lies down at night. Besides, this medicine is suitable when cough gets worse while laughing or singing. In some cases needing it, vomiting may occur with cough.

When to use Drosera?

For dry cough that gets worse at night on lying down, Drosera is recommended.

3. Spongia – For Dry Cough Which Gets Better By Warm Food Or Drinks

Spongia suits well when dry cough gets better by taking warm food or warm drinks. Cough is absolutely dry. Along with cough, burning may be felt in chest. Cough worsens from lying down and gets better by sitting up. In some cases, wheezing and weight in chest is felt. Along wth this, difficult breathing can be there which gets worse by talking or moving. Spongia is very effective for managing dry cough in bronchitis and asthma.

When to use Spongia?

If a person gets better in cough by intake of warm food or warm drinks, Spongia is the best remedy.

4. Rumex – For Dry Cough From Temperature Change From Cold To Warm Or Vice Versa

Rumex is a very effective medicine for dry cough that arise from sudden change of temperature from cold to warm or warm to cold. Cough happens from tickling/irritation in throat pit. Another very specific indication to use Rumex is cough that occurs by inhaling cold air. In majority of cases needing Rumex, cough is most troublesome during day. Along with cough, marked weakness is felt. Headache occur during cough. Sometimes few urine drops escapes involuntarily during cough.

When and How to use Rumex?

Rumex should be selected in dry cough cases that trigger from change of temperature from cold to warm or other way round.

5. Belladonna – For Persistent Cough Day And Night

This herbal medicine is very useful when dry cough occurs day and night. It occurs from a tickling sensation in throat. Along with cough, the throat is red and inflamed. Headache may attend cough. Its use is also recommended for cough that arises from inhaling fine dust in air.

When to use Belladonna?

Belladonna can be used to calm dry cough that persists day and night.

Causes Behind Dry Cough

1. Viral infections – Viral infections like common cold and flu can cause cough. In such cases, runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing tend to resolve early but cough may take few weeks to resolve and in some even one to two months.

2. Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI): It refers to an infection of nose, pharynx, larynx, bronchi with virus or bacteria. Some examples include common cold, pharyngitis, and sinusitis.

3. Asthma:It is an inflammatory disease of airways in which airways swell, constrict and produce excessive mucus. Cough in asthma can be productive or dry but most of the time, it is dry along with its main symptom of difficulty in breathing, tightness in chest and also wheezing. However, in cough variant asthma (an asthma type) dry cough is main symptom.

4. Bronchitis: It refers to inflammation of bronchial tubes via which the air passes from the trachea to the lungs. In bronchitis cough is dry in initial stages but gets productive afterwards.

5. Post nasal drip: It means dripping of mucus from the back of the nose into the throat. PND tends to irritate nerves in the throat leading to cough.

6. Allergies: People suffering from nasal allergy (allergic rhinitis) can get cough along with other symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, itchy watery eyes.

7. COVID-19: Dry cough can be a symptom of COVID – 19. About 50 to 70 % people having coronavirus infection suffer dry cough along with other symptoms like fever, sore throat, weakness.

8. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): It refers to back flow of stomach acid into the food pipe and throat. This acid can cause cough by irritating the throat.

9. Air pollution, dust and smoke can also trigger dry cough.

10. A dry cough may be the result of overexertion or a psychological condition. Sometimes, people develop a habit of coughing, especially under stress or even without any stress.

11. Some other rare causes are idiopathic lung fibrosis (in this scar tissue forms in lungs), lung cancer and heart failure.

What Other Symptoms Can Attend Dry Cough?

Depending on the cause behind dry cough, the following signs and symptoms can attend:

1. Runny nose, nasal congestion

2. Sneezing, watery itchy eyes, post nasal discharge

3. Chest pain, headache

4. Breathing difficulty

5. Wheezing

6. Fever

7. Heartburn