Dr. Vikas Sharma MD, Author at Homeopathy at DrHomeo.com

Top 6 Effective Homeopathic Medicines for Worms

Worm infestation is a very common disorder among children. The common worm infestations include pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis), roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), tapeworm and hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale). The main symptoms of worm infestation include anal itching, abdominal pain, excessive hunger, teeth grinding and irritability. Other complaints that may attend are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, bloating, vaginal itching, sleeplessness, weight loss, weakness, anemia and cough. One may get worm infection by consuming contaminated water / food, maintaining improper hygiene (like not washing hands after toilet or before eating), consuming fruits / vegetables contaminated with faeces of human / animals, playing in contaminated soil, eating undercooked meat, sharing personal objects like towels / clothes of person infected with pinworms and walking barefoot on contaminated soil.

Homeopathy is a safe and reliable mode of treatment for cases of worm infestations. Homeopathic medicines for worms help treat the problem naturally and are safe for use in children. These can effectively manage complaints of worms like abdominal pain, anal itching, excessive hunger, teeth grinding, irritability, diarrhea, gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting and weakness.

Homeopathic medicines work naturally in cases of worms. They help to strengthen the infection fighting mechanism of the body to fight the infection and eradicate worms from the body. Homeopathic medicines for worms not only eradicate them, but also help improve the overall health condition of the individual.

Homeopathy treats every case of worms as per law of individualisation means homeopathic medicines for worms are selected as per the characteristic symptoms in every individual case. Since no two cases of worms are alike hence the medicine differs from case to case. Homeopathic treatment for recommended time period with properly selected medicine promises great cures in mild to moderate cases of worms. The results however vary from case to case as per the type of worms and intensity of the problem. In severe cases, however conventional mode of treatment is recommended.

Homeopathic medicines for worms are natural and non-toxic remedies. Therefore, these are very safe mode of treating worms in children. They treat worm infestation in a very gentle and harmless way with zero side effects. These stimulate natural healing mechanism of the body to fight the infection naturally in the safest manner.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Worms

The top recommended homeopathic medicines for worms are Cina, Spigelia, Teucrium, Calcarea Carb, Merc Sol and Natrum Phos.

1. Cina – Leading Homeopathic Medicine For Worms

Cina is the chief medicine in homeopathy used to treat cases of worms. This medicine can help in managing multiple complaints related to worm infestation. To start with it can effectively manage complaint of teeth grinding, excessive hunger and irritability of mind. Next it is helpful to manage cutting, pinching pain in navel region. Another complaint for which it is beneficial is diarrhea and involuntary urination in cases of worms. Lastly it is useful for managing anal itching, constant picking of nose and weakness related to worms.

When to use Cina?

Cina is the best choice of medicine for managing complaints like teeth grinding, abdomen pain, anal itching, irritability, picking the nose, and weakness related to worms infection.

How to use Cina?

It is advised to use Cina 30C once a day in starting of treatment of worms.

2. Spigelia – For Worms causing Abdominal Pain

Spigelia is the topmost medicine for managing complaint of abdominal pain centered around the navel / umbilical region due to worms. The pain is cutting, colicky, and pinching in nature. Nausea may accompany navel pain. There may also occur loose stool and passage of foul gas.

When to use Spigelia?

Spigelia is one of the best homeopathic medicines for worms that cause pain around the umbilical region.

How to use Spigelia?

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

3. Teucrium – For Worms causing Anal Itching

Anal itching is mainly the symptom of pinworm infection. Teucrium is the most suited remedy for managing anal itching from worms. In cases needing it, a crawling sensation and itching at the anus appear that get worse during the evening or when in bed. This leads to restlessness and sleeplessness.

When to use Teucrium?

Teucrium is a foremost homeopathic medicine to manage anal itching from worms.

How to use Teucrium?

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

4. Calcarea Carb – To Manage Diarrhea and Bloated Abdomen from worms

This medicine is well indicated for cases of worms when the main complaint is loose stool and abdominal bloating due to worms. The abdomen feels hard. Crawling is felt in the rectum. There is also anal itching along with a burning sensation at the anus. In some cases, inflamed eruptions are present around anus.

When to use Calcarea Carb?

Calcarea Carb should be considered in cases of worms to manage diarrhea (loose stool) and hard, bloated abdomen.

How to use Calcarea Carb?

This medicine can be used once or twice in a week in 30C potency.

5. Merc Sol – For Increased Appetite in Cases of Worms

This medicine is prominently indicated to help cases of worms when there is increased appetite. Even after eating there is desire to eat again. But inspite of increased appetite, the child keeps becoming weak. There is also itching at the anus. In general, increased salivation and fetid breath may be present where this medicine is required.

When to use Merc Sol?

This medicine should be preferred to deal with cases of worms when there is increased appetite but inspite of that the child keeps becoming weak.

How to use Merc Sol?

Merc Sol 30C can be taken once a day.

6. Natrum Phos – For Picking Nose in Cases of Worms

Natrum Phos is an important medicine for cases of worms when there is marked picking at the nose by a child. Besides, itching is felt at the anus at night. This leads to restless sleep. Stomach ache can attend the above complaints.

When to use Natrum Phos?

Natrum Phos should be considered to manage picking at the nose and anal itching in cases of worms.

How to use Natrum Phos?

Natrum Phos is usually prescribed in 6X potency once or twice a day.

Natural Homeopathic Medicines for Treating Bedwetting in Children

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 184 Comments

No matter when or how often it happens, bedwetting causes great distress and embarrassment. It is important to understand that occasional bedwetting is a normal happening in the growing up process, and that medical treatment is available for children who have it too often. Though nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) tends to work itself out over a period of time (15 per cent a year do grow out of it), the modern consensus among physicians is that leaving chronic bedwetting untreated chips away at a child’s self-esteem and negatively affects social development. Homeopathic medicines for bedwetting help treat the condition naturally and are completely safe for use in children.

What Causes Bedwetting?

Experts do not know what causes bedwetting. Most cases probably result from a mix of factors, including slower physical development, an overproduction of urine at night, a lack of ability to recognise bladder filling when asleep, and, in some cases, anxiety. For many, there is a strong family history of bedwetting, suggesting an inherited factor. Certain inherited genes appear to contribute to incontinence. Danish researchers have found a site on human chromosome 13 that is responsible, at least in part, for night-time wetting. If both parents were bedwetters, a child has an 80 per cent chance of being a bedwetter.

There are a variety of emotional reasons for bedwetting. For example, when a young child begins bedwetting after several months or years of dryness during the night, this may reflect new fears of insecurity. This may follow changes or events, which make the child feel insecure: moving to a new environment, losing a family member or loved one, or especially the arrival of a new baby or child in the home. Sometimes bedwetting occurs after a period of dryness because the child?s original toilet training was too stressful.

Homeopathic Medicines for Bedwetting

Bedwetting can be treated to a large extent with the help of natural homeopathic medicines. Homeopathy medicines for bedwetting work by targeting the underlying cause behind the problem. These medicines for bedwetting are highly individualised and are prescribed according to the symptoms. The top medicines for bedwetting include Equisetum, Causticum, Kreosote, Cina and Benzoic Acid.

1. Equisetum – For Bedwetting In Children Without Any Cause

Equisetum is a medicine used to treat bedwetting where the child has developed a habit of wetting the bed at night during sleep. There is usually no cause behind it. This medicine is also recommended in cases where the child has nightmares and frightful dreams with bedwetting. I use this as my first line of treatment for bedwetting and have found great success with it.

2. Causticum and Sepia – For Bedwetting During First Part of Sleep

Causticum and Sepia are medicines used to treat bedwetting in children who urinate in the first part of sleep, or as soon as they fall asleep.

3. Kreosote – For Bedwetting during Deep Sleep

Kreosote is a medicine used to treat bedwetting where the child passes urine while in a deep sleep, and it is tough to waken the child. High frequency of urination during the day and presence of red or white sediments in the urine are other symptoms.

4. Benzoic Acid – For Bedwetting when Urine Smells Foul

Benzoic Acid is a medicine used to treat bedwetting in cases where the urine has a foul, offensive smell. The urine also tends to leave brown stains on the bed sheet.

5. Cina – For Bedwetting Related to Worms

Cina is a medicine used to treat bedwetting related to worms. Grinding of teeth during sleep, shrieking, crying or being scared during sleep, an irritable or obstinate behavior, rubbing of nostrils are some other symptoms that indicate the need for this medicine.

Managing Bedwetting in Children

In most cases, children outgrow problems of bedwetting with age. If it is a recurring problem in an older child, a physician can help diagnose the underlying cause and discuss the treatment options. If the child is not particularly bothered by the problem of bedwetting, small lifestyle changes like limiting the amount of fluid intake after evening, avoiding caffeine, practicing better toilet habits, etc. can go a long way in managing the problem.

Causes and Risk Factors of Bedwetting

Although a majority of times there is no major detectable cause behind bedwetting, Certain medical conditions can lead to the development of nocturnal enuresis

Hormonal Imbalance: A hormonal imbalance during childhood means that some children are unable to produce enough anti-diuretic hormone (ADH), which helps slow down the production of urine.
Small bladder: In some children, the urinary bladder is not developed enough, so the child is unable to hold urine at night.3
Not recognizing a full bladder: In some children, the nerves that control the urinary bladder mature at a slower rate. This means that the child is not able to recognize that the bladder is full, especially in the case of deep-sleepers.
Urinary tract infection: A urinary tract infection makes it difficult for a child to control urination, and bedwetting, frequent urination, pain during urination and reddish-pink urine are symptoms of a UTI.
Sleep Apnea: In some cases, bedwetting is a sign of obstructive sleep apnea. The latter is a condition in which a person’s breathing gets interrupted during sleep. This happens due to inflamed or enlarged adenoids or tonsils. Snoring and daytime drowsiness are other symptoms of sleep apnea.
Diabetes: Bedwetting can be the first sign of diabetes in a child who is not a regular bedwetter. Other signs of diabetes can include passing large amounts of urine at once, increased thirst, fatigue, and weight loss in spite of a good appetite.
Constipation: It is a similar set of muscles that control the elimination of both urination and stools. In case of chronic constipation, these muscles can become dysfunctional and lead to bedwetting.

In some rare cases, a child may have a structural abnormality in the urinary tract system or the nervous system. This abnormality can be a cause behind bedwetting.

Risk Factors

Bedwetting is twice as common in males as compared to females, although it can affect anyone. Some risk factors associated with bedwetting include:
Anxiety and Stress: Bedwetting can sometimes be triggered due to a stressful event like a new sibling, moving places, starting a new school, being away from home, being away from parents, etc.
Heredity: Genetics also play a role in passing on this condition from parent to child. If one or both the parents had problems with bedwetting as children, chances of their offspring having the same problem are high.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Children who are diagnosed with ADHD are more likely to be afflicted with bedwetting.

Diagnosing Bedwetting

A physician can recommend certain tests (depending on the symptoms) to identify any underlying medical causes of bedwetting, such as:

Urine Tests: A urine test can help look for signs of a urinary tract infection, diabetes or other issues.
Physical exam: The physician may inquire about regular habits like diet and fluid intake, family history of the disease, bladder habits, bowel movements and other symptoms associated with bedwetting.
X-rays or other Imaging Tests: These tests help take a look at the kidneys and the bladder to analyze any problems with the urinary tract.

Thuja – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications, and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 105 Comments

Thuja is a plant remedy prepared from fresh green twigs of a plant Thuja Occidentalis commonly known by the name of Arbor Vitae. The natural order of this plant is Coniferae. Arbor Vitae is an evergreen plant that attains a height of ranging from 20 to 50 feet. This plant exists in large number in the upper zones of North America, from Pennsylvania northwards. It blossoms from May until June and matures its fruit in autumn.
As a homeopathic remedy, it is primarily used for ailments related to the skin, reproductive organs, and anorectal disorders.

The Thuja Constitution

Individuals requiring Thuja have a hydrogenoid (excessive water in the body) constitution. Rain and damp, cold weather that increases the number of molecules of water in the system worsens the symptoms in them. It suits strumous and sycotic persons, those with lax muscles and light hair. It is also suitable for persons with lymphatic temperament who are fleshy with a dark complexion, black hair, and unhealthy-looking skin.

Drug Action

This remedy majorly acts on the mucus membrane of the genitourinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, on the skin, glands, blood, mind, and brain. Its use is also indicated for wart-like growths upon mucous membranes and the skin. This remedy has an antibacterial action and is widely used to treat gonorrhea. It is considered to be a medicine that works particularly well on left-sided ailments of the body.

Clinical Uses

Thuja is used to treat conditions like warts, moles, skin pigmentation (chloasma), freckles, fungal infections like ringworms, ill-effects of vaccination, hair and scalp infections, nail problems, gonorrhea, balanitis, prostate issues, urethral stricture, piles, anal fissures, anal fistula, constipation, tooth complaints, ovarian cysts, ovaritis, uterine fibroids, hirsutism, recto-vaginal fistula, lumps and tumors, fatty tumors, ganglion, eye tumors, styes, polyps, depression, delusions, and fears.

The Scope of Thuja as a Homeopathic Remedy

1. Skin Problems

Thuja is of great service in treating many complaints of the skin.

WARTS: It is highly effective to treat warts appearing anywhere on the skin, on male / female genitals, and on the anal area. Warts may be small or large, jagged, cauliflower-like, flat or horny. They may ooze moisture and also bleed. The color of warts may be brown, dark or red, and they may be hard or soft. They may have burning, itching, and pain too including sore, sticking, stinging type of pain. They may appear singly, isolated or in multiple crops/groups. They may also be inflamed and sensitive to touch.

FRECKLES: It is also a highly beneficial remedy to treat moles and freckles, particularly light-brown freckles. The facial skin seems greasy/oily in cases requiring this remedy.

PIGMENTATION: It is an effective remedy to treat skin pigmentation with dirty brownish discoloration on the face or any part of the body. It also treats fungal infections of the skin and ringworms very effectively.

2. Ailments in Males

GONORRHEA: It works well in cases of gonorrhea in males where there is swelling of the urethra with scalding on urination. Along with this watery discharge of yellow/green color from the urethra is present.

WARTS ON GENITALS: This remedy can also be used to treat warts on prepuce, penis, scrotum. They may be small or pedunculated, and dry.

BALANITIS: The third indication for using Thuja in cases of male afflictions is balanitis. Here the glans is covered with red sores which are highly sensitive. Burning between the prepuce and glans penis may also be present.

PROSTATE ISSUES: It is also prominently indicated to treat prostate issues where there is a complaint of frequent urination. Sudden urgency to urinate is marked, and the stream of urine may be small and forked in some cases.

3. Ailments in Women

Thuja is a highly recommended medicine to treat a number of ailments in females. Uterine fibroids, warts, ovarian cysts and painful periods are some of the ailments where this remedy works very well.

OVARIAN PAIN: Left-sided ovarian pains that are cutting or shooting in nature, pain in the left ovary indicate its use. Pain from the left ovary may also radiate to the groin and left leg. Left ovary is inflamed. Burning pain in the left ovary, especially during periods, is marked. The burning pain tends to get worse while walking with a desire to lie down.
It is also an important remedy to treat warts on the female genitalia – vulva, vagina, and cervix. Stinging pain may be present in warts, and they may also bleed.

UTERINE POLYPS: In cases of uterine polyps, this medicine is indicated where excessive menstrual bleeding and intermenstrual bleeding is present. Vaginal discharge, back pain and tiredness of legs accompany.
In addition to the above, it also treats the complaint of unwanted facial hair (hirsutism) in females.
It is also a prominently used medicine to treat cases of rectovaginal fistula in females.

4. Ano-Rectal Disorders

Thuja is a significant medicine to treat many anorectal complaints, like constipation, piles, fissures, and fistulas.

CONSTIPATION: It is useful to treat constipation where there is obstinate constipation and the stool comes in the form of hard balls. The anus feels constricted, hard stool is followed by soft stool, and in some cases, the stool is covered with blood. Pain in the rectum may appear while passing stool. There is soreness and burning at the anus throughout the day. Burning or sticking in the anus, painful stitches in the anus (as from a needle), smarting pain in the anus are some other attending features.

PILES: It used to treat piles in cases where pain while passing stool is present. Burning at anus especially while walking is marked.

FISSURES: It is used to treat fissures of the anus. In such cases, the anus is highly sensitive and painful to touch. Burning and itching at the anus are also present.
Apart from the above, Thuja is widely used to treat anal fistula and warts around the anus. Highly offensive sweat around the anus may be present with the above complaints.

5. Urinary Complaints

Thuja is helpful to rectify many urinary complaints associated with inflammation/infection of the urinary tract, stricture of urethra and prostate issue. The urinary symptoms managed with this medicine are cutting pains after urination, burning pain in the bladder and urethra. Its use is also considered when the stream of urine is forked and small, where there is frequent urination (especially at night), and where there is a sudden urgency to pass urine.

6. Complaints of the Mind

This remedy is useful to treat depression, fears, and delusions. There is depression with sadness, aversion to company, attended with irritability, loathing of life and self-contempt. Many of the fears may be present when this remedy is indicated, including fear of getting an infection, fear of germs, fear of strangers, fear of death, fear of getting a venereal disease.

7. Ill-effects of Vaccination

Many troubles arising from vaccination including skin rash, stomach ailments, neuralgia, conjunctivitis, growths at the site of vaccination can be treated with this medicine.

8. Lumps and Tumours

Thuja is an effective anti-sycotic medicine. Fatty tumors, ganglion, eye tumors (styes, tarsal tumors), breast tumors, uterine tumors, polyps (of ears, vocal cords, uterus) all are within the range of treatment.

9. Problems of Hair and Scalp

It is a very helpful remedy to manage hair fall. It also helps to treat dry and split hair, thin, lustreless, brittle hair, premature greying of hair and white scaly dandruff.

10. Conditions Affecting the Nails

Thuja is useful to treat fungal infections of nails, particularly in cases where the nails are discolored and soft, out of shape and distorted. The nails may get dry or brittle, and crumble or break. It is also used to treat ingrown toenails.

11. Dental Complaints

Use of Thuja is also suggested to treat tooth complaints like decay/caries especially when the root decays but the crown remains sound. It also helps in cases of crumbling and yellowing of teeth. Toothache better by pressure and a toothache that worsens before and after menses also indicate the need for this medicine.

Dosage

As a remedy, Thuja can be used from 30 C to 1M potency. The repetition and potency vary from case to case.

Relation to Other Remedies

Complementary medicines – Arsenic album, Natrum Sulph, Sabina, Silicea, and Medorrhinum.
Medicines that follow Thuja well are – Nitric Acid, Calcarea Carb, Lycopodium, Pulsatilla, Sabina, Silicea, and Sulphur.
Antidotes – Camphor, Chamomilla, Pulsatilla, and Sulphur

Nux Vomica – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications, and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 81 Comments

Nux Vomica is a plant commonly known by name Poison Nut of the family Loganiaceae. The seeds of the plant are used to extract the medicine. This plant grows in China, East India, Burma, and Australia. It has small flowers and orange colored fruits. The fruits contain numerous ash gray colored seeds that are coated with fine, silky downy hairs. As a homeopathic remedy, it is majorly used for treating gastric ailments, rectal ailments, anger management, urinary troubles, liver complaints, migraine, sexual complaints in males, sleep issues, and respiratory complaints.

Preparation

Nux Vomica as medicine is prepared from seeds of a plant poison nut. Trituration of the seeds is done to extract the medicine for use in homeopathy.

The Nux Vomica Constitution

In homeopathy, it is believed that every person has a particular constitution. This is the composition, structure, physical makeup and nature of a person.
Nux Vomica is suited to thin, active, energetic, ardent, careful, impatient, zealous persons with dark hair and disposed to get offended and irritable often and are spiteful and malicious. They are impatient, nervous, disposed to be quarrelsome and getting angry easily. Next, it suits literary, studious persons doing much mental work having a sedentary life, with gastric, abdominal complaints. It is also suited in drunkards prone to gastric ailments, indigestion. An oversensitivity to external impressions is frequently noticed. A tendency to chronic indigestion, gastric ailments and piles are usually seen.

Clinical Indications

Piles, constipation, indigestion, acidity, heartburn, migraine, sleeplessness (insomnia), asthma, colds, liver complaints, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, kidney stones, alcoholism, hangover headaches, umbilical hernia, inguinal hernia, drug abuse, tobacco addiction, anger management.

The Scope of Nux Vomica as a Homeopathic Remedy

1. Rectal Complaints

Nux Vomica is a very effective medicine to treat rectal complaints. In the case of rectal complaints it is indicated to treat constipation, diarrhea, piles, dysentery, and prolapse of rectum. The key indication for using Nux Vomica in constipation is frequent ineffectual urging for a stool but passing little quantity at a time. A constant uneasiness is felt in the rectum with frequent small evacuations. The stool is always insufficient and unsatisfactory with a feeling as if some part still remained in the rectum. A sensation as if the stool is not finished prevails. The stool is very hard, dry and knotty. Nux Vomica is highly preferred for treating constipation in infants, adults, elderly people, in women during pregnancy and person living a sedentary lifestyle. It is considered in diarrhea that arises in the morning, after rising, from indigestion, from taking alcoholic drinks, after drastic medicines and from prolonged drugging. Here stool is thin, brown, dark watery and offensive. Before and during stool, a cutting pain around the umbilicus is felt. The pains get better after passing stool.
It also helps rectify diarrhea in infants. Its use is also made in cases of alternating diarrhea and constipation. Nux Vomica helps to regularise the bowel movements. In cases of piles, it is useful for blind piles and itchy piles. There is burning, cutting, sticking, smarting at the anus. Slightest touch worsens the pain. Itching at the anus is worse at night keeping the person awake. Application of cold water at the anus offers relief in piles complaint. Piles during pregnancy or after parturition (delivery) are also indicative to use Nux Vomica. Apart from all these Nux Vomica is also given for dysentery. There is a discharge of blood with the slimy, watery, putrid, painful stool. Small quantities of jelly-like mucus pass with stool. Stool may be greenish in color. There is marked tenesmus, (a feeling of constantly needing to pass stools). Next indication for Nux Vomica is prolapse of rectum. Prolapse of rectum due to constipation majorly guides towards its use.

2. Gastric Troubles

Nux Vomica is an excellent digestive remedy for treating indigestion and acidity. The major symptoms for using it include – heartburn, sour bitter belching, water brash, nausea and vomiting with much retching. Pain in the stomach is also present. Vomiting gives relief in the pain for a while. Tension and fullness in the stomach gets worsen after eating. Burning in the stomach also attends. The stomach area is sensitive to pressure and person cannot bear tight clothing due to this. Excessive gas is present in the abdomen that is incarcerated or obstructed. Abdominal fullness, distension, rumbling is marked. Distension is worse after eating or drinking. Belchings gives relief. Abdominal colic arises. Pain in the abdomen is violent, drawing tearing in nature most times about the navel. Pain is worse from eating anything. Colicy, cutting pain in the abdomen with nausea is marked. Gastric ailments from taking alcohol, coffee, tobacco, highly spiced food are wonderfully treated with Nux Vomica. Dyspepsia from worry, anxiety and mental stress is also corrected with Nux Vomica. Nux Vomica is also a great anti-inflammatory medicine for the stomach. Its use is highly considered in gastritis with burning pain in the stomach and vomiting of everything taken, even in the smallest quantity soon after taking it. Motion sickness from traveling in the car also indicates its use. Nux Vomica is also a significant remedy for hernia – inguinal and umbilical. It is also prominently indicated for an umbilical hernia in infants.

3. Sleep Issues

Nux Vomica is an excellent medicine for insomnia (sleeplessness), mainly where maintaining sleep is the major trouble for the person. There is a rush of thoughts in mind causing insomnia. In daytime drowsiness is present. Tiredness and weakness are also present. Sleeplessness arising from abuse of coffee or tobacco or alcoholic drinks is indicative to use Nux Vomica. Mental strain leading to sleeplessness is also helped with Nux Vomica. Another feature for using Nux Vomica is talking during sleep. Complaint of loud snoring during sleep is also addressed wonderfully with this medicine. Nux Vomica also helps in cases of nightmares frightful dreams, anxious dreams, dreams about accidents.

4. Mental Complaints

Nux Vomica is frequently used for anger management. The person needing Nux Vomica gets offended very easily and explode with anger. They also have a spiteful and malicious disposition. They tend to be quarrelsome. They often scold and insult other people. They are highly irritable, headstrong, ill-humored and anxious and wishes to be alone. Along with anxiety, they have suicidal thoughts and tend to be jealous. They can’t bear criticism or minor contradiction is intolerable. They tend to criticize others, find faults in others and demands perfection. They reproach others for their faults. Usually, they are very careful, nervous, ambitious, workaholic zealous with fiery excited temperament. They are oversensitive to all external impressions including noise, smell, and light. It also helps in dealing with ailments arising after continued mental exertion and from disappointed ambitions. It is also useful in obsessive-compulsive disorders. They are extremely fastidious in nature.

5. Sexual Complaints in Males

Nux Vomica is also beneficial for treating a number of sexual complaints in males. It is frequently used for treating erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation. Next, it is suitable for the complaint of orchitis. The testicles are swollen and very sensitive to touch. Sharp, drawing or constricting pain is felt in the testes. Heated sensation in testicles attend. Pain gets worse from pressure and motion. Pain also worsens at night time causing restless sleep or sleeplessness at night on account of pain. Nux Vomica is also suggested to treat hydrocele. Next complaint where Nux Vomica offers help is spermatorrhea with weakness, backache, and irritability. Emissions during sleep with sensual dreams and exhaustion is also treated well with this remedy. Apart from this, it is helpful for treating chronic prostatitis and gonorrhea. In the case of gonorrhea thin discharge with burning on urinating are present.

6. Liver Ailments

Nux Vomica helps to rectify many of the liver ailments. Here, Nux Vomica is prominently indicated for an enlarged liver, fatty liver, jaundice, and hepatitis. The liver is swollen, sore and tender to pressure. Sticking, shooting, stinging, stitching, sharp or throbbing pain in the liver is felt. Motion worsens the pain. Tightness and constriction in the liver area is also present. Diarrhea and vomiting appear from liver complaints. Loss of appetite and aversion to food appears. Liver weakened from excessive alcohol intake, drug abuse also points towards the use of this remedy. Apart from above, Nux Vomica is preferable medicine for gall stones.

7. Headache

Nux Vomica is a highly suitable medicine for treating headache. Firstly it is recommended for migraine. Migraine from gastric troubles attended with nausea and acid vomiting indicates its use. Nux Vomica is also recommended for a headache that worsens from mental exertion or from anger. Headache from abuse of coffee, from light and noise, and from eating highly spiced food is also attended well with this medicine. Next, its use is suggested for headache from constipation. Hangover headaches also indicate its use.

8. Nasal and Respiratory Complaints

In the case of nasal complaints, Nux Vomica is given for coryza. There is stuffy nose or discharge of acrid nature from the nose. This majorly arises from cold air exposure. Nose blockage worsens at night time. Violent sneezing attends. This is most noted in the morning. Fluent coryza after rising is another key feature for its use. Intolerable itching in nose arises. Nose and frontal sinus may be inflamed. Headache attends nasal catarrh. Oversensitivity to strong odors is most times present. Its use is also made in cases of asthma. There is a suffocative sensation, oppressed breathing. Marked chest constriction and heavy load at the chest is felt. To it attends loud, whistling respiration with a severe cough. Very severe asthmatic attack after midnight appears. Asthma worsening from cold air also suggests its use. Apart from this, cough from gastric troubles and tobacco abuse are also treated wonderfully with Nux Vomica.

9. Urinary Troubles

Nux Vomica is indicated for treating kidney stones. There appears pain in kidney area. Pain may radiate to thighs. Walking worsens the pain. Relief by lying on the back appears. There appears constant urging to urinate. Burning and tearing pain while passing urine appears. Blood in the urine may be noted. Nausea, vomiting and ineffectual urging for stool is a major attending feature

Dosage

Nux Vomica can be used from 30 C to 1M potency. It is a short-acting remedy and its action lasts from 1 to 7 days approximately. The repetition and potency vary from case to case.

Relationship with Other Homeopathic Medicines

Sepia, Kali Carb, and Sulphur are complementary medicines to Nux Vomica.
Ignatia Amara and Zincum Met are inimical (interrupt the action of) to Nux Vomica
Its antidotes are Aconite, Arsenic Album, Chamomilla, Coffea Cruda, Opium, Pulsatilla and Thuja Occidentalis

Top 6 Natural Homeopathic Remedies for Body Pains and Aches

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 186 Comments

Body aches are very common these days. It can occur from various reasons from mild to serious ones. It may simply arise from exertion, lack of sleep, stress or from different medical reasons, like viral/bacterial infections and arthritis (joint inflammation), among many other issues. The intensity and frequency of pain differ from case to case. The type of pain – aching, sore, cutting, tearing, sharp pain –varies from person to person.

Homeopathic remedies are very effective in treating body pains and aches. As body pain may arise from various sort of reasons, so for curing it that root cause has to be identified and treated. So in these cases, homeopathic medicines give excellent results by healing the internal cause behind it. Along with relieving body aches, these medicines also help in managing the attending symptoms like stiffness, soreness, fever and weakness. In conventional mode, pain killers, NSAIDs (non – steroidal anti – inflammatory drugs), steroids are being utilised to manage body aches as per the cause behind it that may have adverse effects from long-term use. While homeopathic medicines for body pains are a natural substitute for conventional medicines. These medicines help to reduce dependency on allopathic medicines to a great extent.

The selection of homeopathic medicine for body aches depends on the characteristic symptoms in every individual case. So homeopathic prescription varies from case to case and similar medicine is not prescribed in every case of body aches. This is as per the law of individualization in homeopathy.

Homeopathy is recommended for both acute and chronic cases of body aches. By following a regular course of homeopathic treatment as prescribed by a homeopathic physician, most of the cases of body aches recover completely. However, the time taken for complete healing depends on the duration and intensity of the problem.

The best feature while using homeopathic medicines for treating body pains is that they are free from side effects. This is because they are made from naturally occurring plants and substances that do not cause any harmful reaction.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Body Pains and Aches

The top medicines for body pains and aches are Rhus Tox, Arnica Montana, Bryonia Alba, Magnesium Phosphorica, Gelsemium Sempervirens and Eupatorium Perfoliatum.

1. Rhus Tox – Topmost Medicine

Rhus Tox is a natural medicine that has proved to be the best in treating general body pains and aches. This medicine is prescribed for patients in whom the body aches become worse in resting position and get better by walking. The body pains are accompanied by anxiety and restlessness. The patient feels a need to constantly move to get relief. The body aches trouble a person when a person gets up to walk after rest but as the patient walks, the pain goes on decreasing gradually. Marked stiffness always accompanies body aches. This medicine is specific if the body pain starts after getting wet in rain. Its use is highly recommended in those body pains that are a result of overexertion, overstraining or overstretching of muscles, and joint inflammation.

When to use Rhus Tox?

It is a marvellous medicine for managing body aches that get worse at rest and better from motion. The body aches can be related to overexertion, muscle pain or joint pain.

How to use Rhus Tox?

It is available in different potenices from low to high potency, initially it is advised to take it in 30C potency two to three times a day.

2. Arnica Montana – For Injury-Related Bodyaches

Arnica Montana is also an excellent medicine for body aches. This medicine has the great ability to reduce body aches which occur due to injuries either recent or old. Joint pains that result from injury can be treated with this remedy. This medicine is used where excessive, bruised type of aching of the body is present. The whole body feels sore as if beaten. The patient requiring Arnica finds it difficult to lie down calmly in bed. The bed feels hard on which he lies, which makes him constantly change his/her position in bed. The whole body feels lame. Arnica can very effectively treat the soreness and body aches due to overexertion.

When to use Arnica Montana?

It is a highly effective medicine for managing sore, bruised, aching body aches resulting from an injury either recent or old ones when the body feels as if beaten.

How to use Arnica Montana?

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

3. Bryonia Alba – For Body Aches When Muscle Or Joints Are Affected

This medicine gives excellent results when body pains result from either muscular or joint involvement. The prominent symptom guiding the use of this medicine is – worsening of the body pains on the slightest motion. The body pains get better on absolute rest. Every part of the body is painful to touch. An increased thirst for large quantity of water is always present in patients requiring this medicine.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

It is the best choice to manage body aches related to muscles or joints when pains are worse from slight movement and better from rest.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

The potency of this medicine differs from case to case from low to high. Low potencies like 30C can be taken two to three times a day. Use of high potency like 200C is limited to once a day.

4. Magnesium Phosphorica – For Body Aches Better From Warm And Pressure

Magnesium Phosphorica is used for a wide range of body pains and aches. The main indications for its use are relief in pain from warm application and pressure application to the affected parts of the body and worsening by cold air exposure. The body pains can be shooting, cutting or stitching in nature.

When to use Magnesium Phosphorica?

It is an apt medicine for cases of body aches in which there is relief from warm application and pressure while there is worsening of pain from cold air exposure.

How to use Magnesium Phosphorica?

Most of the time, it is prescribed in 6X potency and can be taken three to four times a day as per pain severity.

5. Gelsemium Sempervirens – For Body Aches Attended With Weakness, Dullness And Drowsiness

Gelsemium Sempervirens is a wonderful natural medicine for treating body aches that are accompanied by dullness, drowsiness and weakness. The whole body feels tired. Pain is mostly present in the neck, back and lower limbs. The body pains are attended with weakness even from slight exertion. This medicine can also help in relieving the neck and shoulder pain with headache.

When to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

It is a well-indicated medicine to manage body aches attended with marked weakness, tiredness, dullness and drowsiness.

How to use Gelsemium Sempervirens?

It can be used in 30C potency one to two times a day.

6. Eupatorium Perfoliatum – For Body Pains And Aches During Fever

Eupatorium Perfoliatum is the best natural medicine for treating body pains during fever. This is mainly given where severe and general bone pains predominate. This medicine gives quick relief in the body aches during fever like malaria or influenza. The patient feels as if the whole body is broken.

When to use Eupatorium Perfoliatum?

It is a highly suitable medicine to deal with body aches occurring during fever.

How to use Eupatorium Perfoliatum?

This medicine may be taken two to three times a day in 30C power.

Causes behind body aches

The causes may include exertion, vitamin D and calcium deficiencies, low potassium levels, lack of sleep, and injuries. Various medical conditions lead to body aches. First is fever. Second is arthritis which means inflammation of the joints. Third is fibromyalgia which causes widespread pain in different body parts at specific tender points attended by tiredness, memory issues, and sleep problems. The fourth cause can be Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) which causes marked weakness along with muscle / joint pains, sleeplessness, and poor memory. Other causes may include anemia (lack of sufficient red blood cells to carry enough oxygen to body tissues); lupus (an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks and inflames the healthy tissues and organs of the body that leads to a butterfly-shaped rash on the face and may cause joint pains, fever, tiredness, chest pain, dry eyes and memory loss; Lyme disease which is a bacterial infection spread by tick bites; myositis (inflammation of muscles); and fluid retention.

Top Homeopathic Remedies for Muscle Weakness

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 184 Comments

Reduced power or strength in one or more muscles is known as muscle weakness. Muscles are a bundle of fibrous, contractile tissues that possess the ability to contract to produce movement. The exchange of signals between the muscle and nervous system takes place at the neuromuscular junction. The muscles are unable to contract normally if the connection between the nervous system and muscles get injured or damaged. This, in turn, leads to muscle weakness. Homeopathic medicines for muscle weakness works very effectively to restore the strength back into the muscles.

Homeopathic Medicines for Muscle Weakness

Picric Acid, Causticum, and Gelsemium are the top remedies used to treat muscle weakness.

1. Picric Acid – For Muscle Weakness in Legs

Picric Acid is a well-indicated remedy for muscle weakness in the legs. The person needing Picric Acid experiences great weakness in the legs along with a feeling of heaviness. The legs feel weak from a short walk and feel heavy all the time. There may be trembling in the legs, numbness, crawling, and a pricking sensation. The person may feel tired by the least amount of exertion. Both mental and physical weakness may be present.

2. Causticum – For Muscle Weakness in Arms

Causticum is a natural medicine for muscle weakness that has great action on muscles and nerves. It works particularly well for muscle weakness in the arms. There is a progressive loss of muscular strength in the arms, which feel weak and lame. Weakness in arms usually is seen to get worse in the night time. A tearing, dull pain in the arms may be present. Causticum is also indicated for muscle weakness in the hands and fingers. There appears fullness in hands when the person tries to grasp anything. Fingers may also feel icy cold. The person needing Causticum may have a high sensitivity towards cold air. Apart from muscle weakness, Causticum is a top ranking medicine for paralysis (loss of muscle function).

3. Gelsemium Sempervirens – For Muscle Weakness with Deep Muscle Pains

Gelsemium Sempervirens is a natural treatment for muscle weakness. It is prepared from the plant Yellow Jasmine of the Loganiaceae family. Muscle weakness attended with deep-seated muscle pains is indicative of its use. The person needing this medicine has weakness in the arm and leg muscles. The muscles lose their power to contract effectively. Arms feel powerless and numb. Trembling of hands and legs (that feel fatigued and tired from little exercise) are other symptoms. There appears difficulty in walking, with an unsteady gait from a weakness of the leg muscles. Drawing, contractive, cramping, and deep-seated muscular pains in the legs are also present. The calf muscles feel bruised, and there is a numbness in the limbs. General fatigue and weakness are also well-noted along with these symptoms.

4. Arnica Montana – For Muscle Weakness with Sore, Bruised Muscle Pain

Arnica Montana is a natural medicine prepared from the plant Leopard’s Bane of the family Composite. Arnica Montana is a useful natural medicine for muscle weakness attended with sore, and bruised muscle pains. There is a loss of strength in the body. The arms feel weary, and the wrist feels powerless. The person is unable to use the arm. The hand muscles also lack strength. Legs also appear weak, and the feet feel tired. The limbs feel heavy and ache with a sore, bruised sensation. The muscles may twitch, and the person feels sluggish, with a strong desire to lie down. Tiredness, weakness, and exhaustion are other symptoms. Muscle weakness arising from overstraining the muscles also indicates the use of Arnica Montana.

5. Kali Phos – For Muscle Weakness with Marked Fatigue

Kali Phos is a natural cure for muscle weakness attended with marked general fatigue. There is muscle weakness with lameness throughout the body. The limbs feel weak and tired, and there is debility and weakness. Use of Kali Phos is also considered in cases of muscle weakness present in chronic fatigue syndrome.

6. Arsenic Album – Natural Remedies for Muscle Weakness from Least Exertion

Arsenic Album is an excellent medicine for muscle weakness that arises from the least amount of exertion. The entire body feels weary, with an aversion towards any effort. Limbs feel excessively weak and exhausted. Exhaustion confines the person to the bed. Other symptoms include sleeplessness, anxiety, and restlessness. The person may experience debility and exhaustion from the slightest amount of over-work.

7. Stannum Met – For Muscle Weakness in Limbs with Heaviness

Stannum Met is a natural medicine for muscle weakness in limbs attended with heaviness. There appears to be a loss of power in the limbs. Arms feel weak and heavy. Motion worsens it. Weakness and fatigue of arms arise from lifting a small weight, or from the slightest exercise. The person may be unable to hold an object due to weakness. There may be twitching of muscles of the forearm and hand. The thighs also feel weak and heavy. Walking worsens it, making the person want to sit down. Excessive weariness and fatigue with a desire to lie down may be present.

8. Conium Maculatum – For Muscle Weakness in Legs with Trembling

Conium Maculatum is a suitable medicine for muscle weakness in the legs attended with their trembling. Loss of muscle power in legs and extreme weakness from walking short distance is present. The person is unable to walk and has a staggering gait. Shooting pain in the legs may arise. Legs feel heavy and weary. Knees also feel weak. Conium Maculatum is also an indicated medicine for paralytic weakness in lower limbs that ascends upwards.

9. Plumbum Met – For Progressive Muscle Weakness

Plumbum Met is a natural cure for severe muscle weakness that progresses rapidly. There appears marked debility, weakness, and lameness of the arms. Muscles of the arm lack the power to move. Muscle weakness is severe and progressive. Cramping in the calf muscles may also be present. Plumbum Met is also a prominently indicated medicine for paralysis of limbs along with atrophy (wasting) of the muscles.

10. Sarcolacticum Acidum – Natural Medicine for Muscle Weakness with General Tiredness

Sarcolacticum Acidum is a remedy for muscle weakness along with general tiredness. Exertion aggravates the complaint, and the body feels sore. The person remains restless at night. There is tiredness felt in the neck, back, shoulders and wrist. Arms also feel tired and weak as if they lack strength.

Causes of Muscle Weakness

Muscle weakness can arise for various reasons, which include prolonged bed rest, immobilization, lack of exercise, a sedentary lifestyle (if a person doesn’t use muscles, then muscle fibers are replaced by fat and muscles can’t contract effectively), aging. Increased calcium levels in the blood, low sodium levels, pinching of nerves in the spine, and Myasthenia gravis (an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness and fatigue of the muscles.) are some other causes.

Homeopathic Remedies for Bed Sores

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 83 Comments

Bed Sores are commonly seen in persons who are immobilized and stay in bed or wheelchair for a long time. They do not change their position often and this results in damage to the skin and the underlying tissues because of the constant pressure on skin for a long duration. Bed Sores are also known as pressure sores or Decubitus Ulcers. When a person lies in bed for a long time — due to medical conditions like paralysis, spinal problems and several others — the skin is constantly pressed between the bones and the bed. As a result, the blood supply to skin is hindered, resulting in skin damage. Persons who involuntarily pass urine or stool are also prone to develop Bed Sores due to constantly moist skin. Elderly people and diabetics too are more likely to develop Bed Sores, which are mostly formed on the skin over bony prominences. Bed Sores are commonly seen on heels, hips, sacrum, elbows, shoulder blades and spine. Natural remedies are very beneficial in treating Bed Sores. These homeopathic medicines for bed sores are completely safe with zero side effects and treat Bed Sores effectively by providing relief from pain and curing blisters and pus in ulcers.

Signs and Symptoms of Bed Sores

In the beginning, Bed Sores show their presence as red skin area which soon turns bluish or purplish due to diminished blood supply. The patient experiences itching and pain. In the next stage, blisters appear on skin. When these eruptions of varying size containing fluid burst out, ulcers appear on the skin. The ulcers then start to find a way into deeper tissues. If the condition deteriorates, damage to deeper tissues, including muscles and even bones, may occur. Pus discharge or foul odour discharge is a warning sign and it needs immediate attention.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Bed Sores

Arnica, Apis Mellifica, Carbo Veg, Arsenic Album, Silicea, Hepar Sulph, Paeonia, and Pyrogen are the top remedies for bed sores.

1. Arnica: For Bed Sores with Black and Blue Spots on Skin

Arnica is the best natural medicine for treating Bed Sores when the skin turns bluish or blackish in appearance. The colour changes are due to marked stasis of blood because of the constant pressure on the affected part. The bluishness is accompanied by marked soreness. The patient complains of bruised and sore feeling in the affected part and feels as if the bed is too hard to lie on. Along with soreness, the patient may also complain of itching. In such conditions, Arnica is the ideal Homeopathic prescription to reduce blood stasis and hence, the black or blue spots. The soreness and itching diminish with its use. Apart from these effects, Arnica also acts as a preventive medicine against pus formation that occurs in late stages of bed sores.

2. Apis Mellifica: For Rose-Colored Bed Sores with Burning Sensation

Apis Mellifica is the ideal natural remedy for Bed Sores where the skin appears rose coloured. There is a marked burning sensation in the spots. The patient complains of pain in the spots and it gets worse by touch. The condition also gets worse in a warm room or from heat of bed. The desire is to be in open air or uncover the affected parts to reduce the pain and burning. The pain may be of a stinging kind.

3. Carbo Veg: For Bed Sores with Blue Spots and Coldness of Affected Part

Carbo Veg is of great help for treating Bed Sores when the skin is bluish with coldness. Excessive sweat may also be present along with the coldness. The person needing Carbo Veg has bluish-coloured Bed Sores due to stagnation of blood in capillaries. Because of stagnated blood, there is imperfect oxidation, resulting in Bed Sores with a bluish tint. Apart from bluishness, coldness and sweat, the other complaint is itching. The itching most of the times gets worse by warmth. Itching may also be mostly experienced towards evening time. Bleeding from the sores is also narrated by a few patients. Marked weakness forms a part of the total symptom picture.

4. Arsenic Album: For Bed Sores with Offensive Discharge

Arsenic Album is the top natural remedy for Bed Sores where ulcers have formed with discharge of an offensive character. The discharge from ulcers is extremely putrid. Pain in ulcers, especially of a burning nature, is dominantly present. The pains in majority of cases get worse at night. Cold may also worsen the pain and burning in ulcers. The person also seems weak. Homeopathic medicine Arsenic Album efficiently helps in clearing the putrid discharge and ulcers as well as reducing the burning pain.

5. Silicea and Hepar Sulph: For Bed Sores with Pus

Silicea is a natural medicine that always stands out in the treatment of various medical conditions associated with formation of pus. Silicea is a very powerful and efficient medicine to get rid of pus discharges. It can be prescribed in all cases of Bed Sores with discharge of pus. Hepar Sulph is the remedy when the pus discharge is bloody. There is extreme pain and sensitiveness in the ulcer. The person needing Hepar Sulph may also have a burning and stinging feeling in the ulcers. So, while Silicea is selected when only pus oozes out of ulcers, Hepar Sulph is the best remedy when blood oozes out along with pus from ulcers.

6. Paeonia: For Bed Sores on Sacrum and Coccyx

Paeonia is the most efficient natural medicine for Bed Sores that show their presence on the skin covering sacrum and coccyx. Ulcers are present with pain and sensitiveness, Itching and pain in ulcers may also be felt and are effectively controlled by Homeopathic medicine Paeonia.

7. Pyrogen: For Bed Sores tending towards Sepsis

Sepsis is a very critical condition also called blood poisoning. In Sepsis, the septic or poisonous matter appears in blood and spreads to the entire body. In such cases of extreme Bed Sores where the infection has gained access to blood, Pyrogen is a very beneficial medicine. The patient shows symptoms of increased pulse rate and high fever with shivering. The skin is cold and sweaty and there is a presence of deep ulcers with horribly offensive discharge.

6 Homeopathic Medicines for Sore Muscles

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 19 Comments

Muscles are a bundle of fibrous tissue which helps move the body by contraction. Stretching muscles beyond their tensile strength make them sore. Primary causes behind sore muscles are overstretching, overexertion, strenuous exercise, heavy weight lifting, and trauma. Muscle soreness is of two types – acute muscle soreness, and delayed onset muscle soreness. In acute muscle soreness, muscle pain is experienced during and immediately after exercise. In delayed onset muscle soreness, muscle pain is felt several hours to a few days after excessive exercise. The symptoms of sore muscles are pain, stiffness, and tenderness in the muscle. Using the muscle worsens the pain, and resting it brings relief. Homeopathic medicines for sore muscles is very beneficial. Muscle soreness arising from different causes is dealt with effectively with these medicines.

Treatment Options for Sore Muscles

Conventional treatment involves the use of non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs which relieve pain by preventing the body’s cyclooxygenase enzymes from working. These enzymes make hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which contribute to pain and inflammation. NSAIDs are most often prescribed for arthritis and for the pain resulting from muscle sprains, strains, back and neck injuries, and menstrual cramps. Some commonly seen side effects can include nausea, stomach pain, bleeding and ulcer formation. NSAIDs also increase the risk of cardiovascular problems and they can interact with drugs prescribed for heart diseases such as blood thinners, antihypertensive drugs, and aspirin. Homeopathic treatment for sore muscles is very beneficial. Muscle soreness arising from different causes is dealt with effectively with homeopathy medicines. These medicines help persons with sore muscles caused by overstretching, overexerting, or injuries.

Mind-body therapies are treatments that are meant to help the mind’s ability to access the functions and symptoms of the body. Relaxation techniques can help in the discomfort related to chronic pain.
Acupuncture is also thought to decrease pain by increasing the release of chemicals that block pain called endorphins. When stimulated, these nerves cause a dull ache or feeling of fullness in the muscle. The stimulated muscle sends a message to the central nervous system causing the release of endorphins. Endorphins along with other neurotransmitters block the message of pain from being delivered to the brain.

Homeopathic Medicines for Sore Muscles

Rhus Toxicodendron, Arnica Montana, Bryonia Alba, Cimicifuga, Gelsemium, Sanguinaria Canadensis are the top remedies used to treat muscles soreness.

1. Rhus Toxicodendron – For Sore Muscles Due to Weightlifting

Rhus Toxicodendron, also known as Poison Ivy is a flowering shrub whose leaves are used to make the medicine. It belongs to the family Anacardiaceae and is commonly found in parts of Asia and Eastern North America. The main actions of the remedy are on the inflammatory conditions, skin and rheumatic pains of the body. Rhus Tox is a beneficial remedy for the treatment of sore muscles caused due to lifting heavy weights. Stiffness, along with sore and painful muscles is also seen. Application of something warm over the affected part may offer some relief. There is also some soreness of the condyles of the bones. The cold fresh air is not tolerated and it makes the skin painful. Tenderness is also felt in the affected muscles.

2. Arnica Montana – For Sore Muscles Due to Trauma

Arnica Montana (also known as Wolf’s Bane) is a flowering plant of the Asteraceae family, the dried flowers of which are used to prepare the remedy Arnica. It is commonly found in the European region. Arnica is a well-indicated remedy for injury to the skin or for pain and swelling associated with bruises, aches, and sprains in the muscles. Sore muscles as a result of trauma respond well to Arnica. It is also a good remedy for the sore muscles after previous injuries. There is a sore, lame and bruised feeling in the body. The patient may feel the pain in various muscles as if resulting from being beaten. Touching the affected body part worsens the pain as muscles are tender. Arnica is also used for sore muscles caused by influenza.

3. Bryonia Alba – When Slight Motion Worsens the Pain

Bryonia Alba or White Bryony is a perennial climbing herb found in parts of Europe and Northern Iran, of the family Cucurbitaceae. The dried root of this plant is used to prepare the homeopathic remedy. Bryonia has its affinity towards dryness of all mucous membranes of the body, aching in single muscle and the serous membranes of the organs. Bryonia Alba is best suited in cases of sore muscles when relief is brought about by only absolute rest. The slightest motion of the affected part worsens the pain. People requiring Bryonia feel relief when pressure is applied to the affected part. Lying down on the affected part also makes the soreness of the muscles better.

Other Important Remedies

4. Cimicifuga

Cimicifuga is a beneficial medicine for sore muscles affecting the central bulge of the large muscles. In such cases, the application of something cold worsens the pain. Cimicifuga is an excellent medicine for sore muscles caused by excessive muscle exertion, like dancing or long, continuous running, etc. Pain in the muscles of the neck from overwork like typing is also treated well with this remedy.

5. Gelsemium

Gelsemium is a beneficial medicine for the sore muscles. It is used in cases of extreme weakness and fatigue accompanying muscle soreness. In such cases, the patient gets relief by lying down or resting. Gelsemium helps to relieve the pain in the muscles as well as the weakness along with it. Gelsemium also works well for sore muscles caused by influenza.

6. Sanguinaria Canadensis

Sanguinaria Canadensis is a useful medicine for soreness and pain in the deltoid muscle. Along with being painful, the deltoid muscle is also very stiff. The pain worsens on lifting the arm and usually aggravates at night time. Sanguinaria works well for deltoid pain on the right side.

Types of Muscle Soreness

Muscle soreness is of two types:

Acute muscle soreness is the pain felt in the muscles immediately after a vigorous physical stimulus. The pain appears within a minute of contraction of the muscle and disappears within two or three minutes or up to some hours after the muscle’s relaxation.
Accumulation of chemical end products of exercise in muscle cells, such as H+, tissue edema caused by the shifting of blood plasma into the muscle tissue during the process of contraction, muscle fatigue (the muscle tires and cannot carry out contraction any more), and acute muscle soreness reflects one form of exercise-induced muscle damage.

Delayed onset muscle soreness is exercise-related muscle pain. It develops after excessive and unaccustomed exercise after the muscles fail to relax within 48-72 hours. It is prevalent if that exercise has an eccentric component where the muscles are contracting whilst lengthening – eg downhill running, long-distance running.

Causes of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)

DOMS is caused by muscle strains. The trauma results in an inflammatory response with intramuscular fluid and as a result the electrolyte shift. Biochemical markers such as creatine kinase and lactic dehydrogenase are found in the blood of the sufferers. Swelling, pain is thought to be the reason why muscle strength and function is impaired in the patients.

Symptoms of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

The classic symptoms of this soreness describe a dull muscle ache that develops 24 to 48 hours after a strenuous exercise. It is localized to the affected muscles and results in muscle stiffness as well as tenderness. Passive stretching will increase the symptoms which is one of the reasons why stiffness develops. This condition can also result in a short-term loss of muscle strength, a reduced range of motion and possible swelling of the affected muscles. Continuous movement may improve the symptom of stiffness over time.

How do Muscles get Sore?

One of the consequences of vigorous exercise is an accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles. Lactic acid is a normal byproduct of the metabolism, but it can irritate the muscles thus causing discomfort and soreness. Muscle soreness associated with an exercise is known as delayed onset muscle soreness. It can make it difficult to walk, reduce the strength, or cause discomfort for a couple of days. However, lactic acid is removed from muscle from just a few hours to less than a day after a workout, so it isn’t the cause of the soreness experienced days after a workout. The swelling in the muscle that results from an influx of white blood cells, prostaglandins (anti-inflammatory cells), and other nutrients and fluids that flow to the muscles to repair the damage and are known to be the cause of a prolonged soreness. The swelling and inflammation can build up for days, thereby becoming the main reason for muscle soreness getting worse after 2-3 days.

Managing and Preventing Sore Muscles

To minimize the development of muscle soreness, the following suggestions should be kept in mind:
Take it slow and gradually build up the amount of exercise at one time.
Be aware of the amount of eccentric exercise being included in the workouts.
Long distance runners should incorporate eccentric quadriceps training into their training to avoid soreness.

It is advisable to avoid aggressive exercise during the recovery phase. This is due to the muscle’s reduced capacity to cope up with the shock absorption, in-coordination, and the contraction intensity. Cycling has been shown to temporarily ease the pain.
Using an ice pack in case of an acute injury, or if there is a swelling of the muscle area and it feels warm, can help soothe the muscle. Wrap up an ice pack in a thin towel and place it on the sore muscles for about 15 minutes.
A massage will help to relax the very tight sore muscles and soothes muscle aches. However, this should not be done in cases of an acute injury.
Stretching your muscles for about 10 minutes after a rigorous workout to prevent sore muscles and warming up the body with simple movements like arm swings before exercise can help avoid soreness.
In the case of soreness, do not stop exercising completely. The fact that we experience muscle soreness after a workout is a sign that the muscles have been stretched and are slowly getting better. By using the muscles (with light activity) we can speed up the elimination of lactic acid buildup in the muscles.
Build up eccentric exercises slowly. Eccentric contractions occur when the muscles lengthen under tension. Walking or running downhill are also examples of eccentric training. Increasing the intensity gradually is seen to have relieved the intensity of pain.
Lastly, a warm bath may loosen the tightened muscles and boost up the blood circulation, thus providing temporary relief.

7 Best Homeopathic Medicines for Bone Pain

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 189 Comments

Bone pain can be a result of various reasons. It could be due to deficiency of calcium or vitamin D, an injury, or joint inflammation (arthritis). Other causes may be fever due to influenza (a respiratory illness caused by influenza virus) and dengue, AVN (avascular necrosis meaning death of bone cells due to decreased blood supply to bone), osteomyelitis (serious bone infection), fracture (a break in the bone) and osteoporosis (a condition causing weakness and brittleness of bones). Further reasons are exostosis (extra bony growth on an existing bone), Paget’s Disease (a disease of bone interfering with normal bone remodelling process), sickle cell anaemia (a genetic disorder in which the red blood cells are shaped like crescent moon which decreases its blood-carrying capacity), leukaemia (cancer of blood cells), multiple myeloma (cancer forming in plasma cells which are a type of white blood cells) and bone cancer.

Bone pains can be effectively treated with natural homeopathic medicines. Apart from providing relief from pain in bones, these medicines also halt the disease process that is behind bone pain. Along with bone pain, the associated symptoms also get managed wonderfully with such medicines. Homeopathy has an excellent scope to manage most cases of bone pain with mild to moderate intensity. But it is also to be noted that homeopathy has its own limitation to help severe cases with serious causes like cancer, bone infection where it is strictly advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic medicines act deeply to treat root cause

The action of homeopathic medicines is not just superficial rather these are deep-acting medicines that focus to treat the root cause behind bone pain. These initially provide relief in bone pain. Following relief in acute pain, these medicines for bone pain will work towards root extraction of the disease. The results in homeopathy vary from case to case. In some cases, pain can only be managed while in others the pain resolves completely with homeopathic treatment. It depends on the cause of bone pain and severity of the pain.

Individualized medication

Homeopathic prescription for bone pain is done after considering the cause of the pain, the bone affected, the type of pain and the worsening and relieving factors in each case. For this, a detailed case history from the individual is taken. After this, case evaluation is done based on which homeopathic medicine is decided. It is followed by selection of potency and dosage selection for each case separately. Following such individualized treatment gives remarkable recoveries.

Safe, natural medication

Homeopathic medicines for treating bone pain are of natural origin and hence are highly safe to use. They have no side effects at all. These can be taken for as long as recommended as per the physician’s advice. They have no risk of dependency and can be easily stopped once the complaint is managed completely.

Top 7 Natural Homeopathic Medicines for Bone Pain

The top seven top recommended homeopathic medicines for bone pain are Eupatorium Perfoliatum, Symphytum, Fluoric Acid, Mezereum, Aurum Met, Calcarea Phos and Ruta.

1. Eupatorium Perfoliatum – For Bone Pain in Fever

Eupatorium Perfoliatum is a top natural remedy for treating bone pain during fever mainly dengue, malaria or influenza fever. The bone pains are very severe and can be present in any bone or all the bones. The bones feel as if they are broken. The severe bone pain also leads to extreme restlessness. To bring about prompt relief from bone pain in fever, no medicine equals remedy Eupatorium Perfoliatum.

When to use Eupatorium Perfoliatum?

Eupatorium Perfoliatum is the best choice of medicine to manage bone pain during fever especially from dengue, malaria and influenza with a feeling as if bones are broken.

How to use Eupatorium Perfoliatum?

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies but to start with it is recommended to take it in 30C potency one to two times a day.

2. Symphytum – For Bone Pain From Bone Injury and Fractures

Symphytum, also known as knit bone, is of great help in treating bone pain resulting from injuries of bone or fracture. It proves highly effective in healing injured bones and to promote joining of fractured bones. In most cases needing it the pains are pricking type. The pains are accompanied by utmost soreness in the affected bones.

When to use Symphytum?

Symphytum is an apt medicine to reduce pain, soreness of bones due to bone injury / fractures and aid natural healing.

How to use Symphytum?

Symphytum is mainly used in mother tincture (Q) form to get the best results that can be used once or twice a day.

3. Fluoric Acid – For Bone Pains Worse At Night

Fluoric Acid is of great use to manage cases of bone pains that get worse at night. This is attended with marked weakness. The bones are swollen and inflamed. There is also a tendency of bony outgrowths on existing bone (exostosis). Bone damage especially of long bones can be present where this medicine is required.

When to use Fluoric Acid?

This medicine should be selected to help cases of bone pains that are most troublesome at night.

How to use Fluoric Acid?

This medicine is available in both low and high potency but initially Fluoric Acid 30C is usually recommended that can be used once a day.

4. Mezereum – For Bone Pains Affecting Long Bones Mainly of Thigh and Legs

Mezereum is mainly used to treat bone pains that affects long bones. The pain is especially worse from the least touch. Pain is mainly felt in bones of thigh and leg. Stitching type of pain is prominent. There is tendency of pain to get worse at night. The bones may be swollen or inflamed. Worsening of bone pains in damp weather may also be noted.

When to use Mezereum?

This medicine can be considered to manage bone pains occurring in long bones of leg and thigh especially that get worse from slightest touch.

How to use Mezereum?

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

5. Aurum Met – For Pain in Bones of Face, Skull, Fingers, Toes, Tibia (a Bone of Leg)

Aurum Met is an ideal medicine for managing bone pains felt in bones of face, nose, skull, fingers, toes, tibia (a bone of leg). The pains get worse at night. The bones especially of the face are inflamed and there is tearing, stitching or burning type of pain present. The nasal bone is painful to touch.

When to use Aurum Met?

Its use should be preferred to manage bone pains mainly of face, skull, nose, fingers, toes, tibia that are most troublesome at night.

How to use Aurum Met?

One may use this medicine once a day in 30C power.

6. Calcarea Phos – For Pain in Hip Bone and Bones of Arms

This medicine is beneficial to treat cases of pain in hip bone as well as the bones of arms. There is pain in all bones of the arms. In hip bone, the pain can be shooting or tearing type. At times, stitching pain is felt in hip bone that radiates up and down along with a sensation of warmth.

When to use Calcarea Phos?

Calcarea Phos proves effective to manage pain in hip bone and bones of arms.

How to use Calcarea Phos?

Among its different potencies, it is commonly utilized in 6X potency that can be taken three to four times in a day.

7. Ruta – To Manage Pain in Bones of Wrist, Hands, Feet

Ruta is very helpful to manage bone pains appearing in wrist, hands and feet. Sore bruised pains are marked. There is difficulty in stepping on the feet due to pain. It is accompanied with heated sensation. Ruta is also the best medicine when there is excessive soreness and bruised sensation in bones following injuries.

When to use Ruta?

Ruta is an important medicine to treat pain in bones of wrist, hands, and feet and also for bony pains due to injuries along with marked sore bruised feeling.

How to use Ruta?

Both 30C and 200C potency of this medicine give amazing results. In the beginning two to three doses of this medicine in 30C potency can be used per day.

Top 8 Effective Homeopathic Medicines for Tinea Capitis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 4 Comments

Tinea capitis is a ringworm/fungal infection of the scalp and hair shafts. It is a highly contagious infection. Tinea capitis is caused by fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi attack the outer layer of the skin on the scalp and the hair shaft. Ringworm spreads through direct skin to skin contact with an infected person. It can also spread through contact with objects like towels, bed sheets, combs, caps, etc that are infected with this fungus. Apart from the above, it can also pass from infected animals to human beings.

Tinea capitis can be treated with homeopathic medicines in an excellent manner. These medicines also help to manage attending itching, tenderness, crusty eruptions and hair loss associated with infection. Homeopathic medicines along with healing the existing patches of ringworm on the scalp also help to prevent the further spread of fungal infection. These medicines are sourced from natural substances hence are completely safe to use. Mainstream medicine treats tinea capitis with antifungal medicines and medicated shampoos. Though it provides relief but it is temporary and the condition may recur. Homeopathic medicines offer complete recovery and permanent cure by addressing the root cause.

Prescription as per law of individualization

Homeopathic prescription for every case of tinea capitis is done according to homeopathic law of individualization. According to this, the medicine that matches closely with the characteristic symptoms of the individual is selected in every case. This medicine is given in specified potency and dosage according to the case. This properly selected medicine is the key to provide best results in cases of tinea capitis.

Homeopathic medicines fight with fungal infection

Homeopathic remedies in case of tinea capitis helps to fight with the fungal infection and eradicate it from body. These medicines aids this by boosting the natural healing mechanism in body that helps in self – healing and natural recovery. As the root cause is treated the results are long term rather than temporary short term healing.

Homeopathic medicines never supress skin issue

Homeopathic medicines in no case leads to suppression of skin lesions in cases of tinea capitis. This is due to the fact that homeopathy does not act superficially on the skin surface but on the deeper core issue to treat tinea capitis and bring healing. This also prevents recurrence of skin lesions again and again.

Homeopathic medicines are safe and natural

Homeopathic medicines to treat tinea capitis are totally safe and gentle medicines made from natural substances. They offer help in these cases with zero side effects. These medicines are given in highly diluted forms hence never cause any type of harm.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines for Tinea Capitis

The top grade homeopathic medicines to treat tinea capitis include Sepia, Tellurium, Arsenic Album, Mezereum, Calcarea Carb, Graphites, Hepar Sulph and Sulphur.

1. Sepia – Top Medicine for Tinea Capitis with itchy ringworm patches

Sepia is a top grade medicine for treating cases of tinea capitis. In cases needing Sepia, there are circular ringworm patches on the scalp that are mainly isolated. There is violent itching in the ringworm spots. The scalp may also be tender to touch. There may be an eruption on the top or back part of the scalp with itching and tingling/stinging sensation. After scratching they feel sore. Sour smelling sweat on the head may be present. Bald spots on scalp also indicate the use of Sepia. The spot may be covered with dry scales in most cases.

When to use Sepia?

Sepia is an excellent choice of medicine to manage tinea capitis with formation of circular patches on skin that are itchy and tender to touch.

How to use Sepia?

Though it can be used in different potencies from low to high, it is advised to begin with 30C potency once a day. Use of higher potencies should be done only under supervision of a physician.

2. Tellurium – For Multiple intersecting Ring-Shaped Lesions on Scalp

Tellurium is a significant medicine to treat tinea capitis with multiple intersecting ring-shaped lesions on the scalp. The ring lesions are elevated. There is itching with continual scratching. Stinging sensation on the skin may be present. Skin is dry and hot.

When to use Tellurium?

This medicine is prominent for treating tinea capitis with presence of multiple ring-shaped lesions joined together on the scalp.

How to use Tellurium?

It can initially be taken in 30C potency once a day. For using its high potencies like 200C, one needs to consult a homeopathic physician.

3. Arsenic Album – When Ringworm Patches are Covered with Scales

Arsenic Album is well indicated for tinea capitis when ringworm patches on the scalp are covered with scales. Marked burning and itching attend. This gets worse in the evening time. Ringworm infection on the scalp with vesicular or pustular eruptions is also suggestive of using Arsenic Album. These eruptions may destroy the roots of the hair. Circular patches of hair loss with rough and dirty skin surface on the scalp may also be noticed where Arsenic Album is indicated.

When to use Arsenic Album?

Arsenic Album should be used for cases of tinea capitis with ringworm lesions covered with scales along with itching and burning.

How to use Arsenic Album?

It is advised to use Arsenic Album 30C once a day.

4. Mezereum – For Thick Leather-like Crusts on Scalp

Mezereum is beneficial to treat tinea capitis cases with thick leather-like crusts on the scalp. Under the crust, white pus may collect. Hair may be glued together and may come out in handfuls in some cases. The crusts may extend to the nape of the neck and behind the ears. Burning, biting and itching on the scalp may be felt. Itching worsens mostly at night time.

When to use Mezereum?

This medicine can be utilized when thick leather-like crusts get formed on the scalp.

How to use Mezereum?

Mezereum can be taken once a day in 30C power.

5. Calcarea Carb – For Lesions Covered with Yellow Scabs

Calcarea Carb is indicated to treat tinea capitis lesions covered with yellow scabs. The scab lesions mainly appear on the top of the head and tend to bleed when picked at. Excessive sweating of head may be present especially in the evening time. Itching along with biting and burning sensation on the scalp may appear. Scratching worsens the itching. Yellowish-white scales on the scalp may be present in few cases needing Calcarea Carb.

When to use Calcarea Carb?

Calcarea carb is recommended to manage tinea capitis with yellow scabs on eruptions usually with excessive sweating on the scalp.

How to use Calcarea Carb?

Its use is suggested in 30C potency once a day.

6. Graphites – For Dry Scab Eruptions

Graphites is a useful medicine for tinea capitis with dry scabby eruptions. The eruptions are large and dark in colour. There is itching on scalp. Burning sensation, especially on the top of the head, is felt. Ringworm lesions with scales are also treated well with Graphites. In some cases requiring Graphites, there is falling out of hair with bald patches on the scalp that are perfectly smooth and shining.

When to use Graphites?

This medicine should be considered for treating eruptions with dry scabs on scalp in cases of tinea capitis.

How to use Graphites?

This medicine works wonderfully in 3X potency that can be used once or twice a day.

7. Hepar Sulph – For Tender, Painful Areas on Scalp

Hepar Sulph offers help for tinea capitis when there are tender, painful areas on the scalp. The scalp is sensitive to touch. It is accompanied by burning and itching. It is also indicated for sore painful pimples on the scalp with large bald spots. Cold sweat with sour smell may be present on the scalp.

When to use Hepar Sulph?

This medicine is effective for tinea capitis with painful spots on scalp along with painful pimples.

How to use Hepar Sulph?

To start with, it can be used in 30C power once or twice a day.

8. Sulphur – For Eruption filled with Pus

Sulphur is prominently indicated for tinea capitis with eruptions on the scalp that are filled with pus. The eruption appears mainly on the top of the head. They are painful to touch. After drying they get covered with honey like scabs. There is severe itching and burning in the eruptions. Itching mainly gets worse in the evening time.

When to use Sulphur?

This medicine should be selected to deal with cases of tinea capitis with presence of pus-filled eruptions on scalp attended with itching and burning sensation.

How to use Sulphur?

This medicine is mainly prescribed in 30C potency once a day.

Signs and Symptoms of Tinea Capitis

The main feature of tinea capitis is round itchy patches on the scalp. The patches tend to slowly expand or enlarge and maybe one or multiple in number. The hair may become brittle and break off from these patches resulting in bald spots. Black dots may be seen on the scalp where the hair strand has broken off. Patches of scaly skin may be present in some of the cases of tinea capitis. Tender, painful areas on the scalp may be present. In severe cases, crusts form on the scalp that drains pus. There is a risk of scarring and permanent hair loss in few cases of tinea capitis.