SurvivalMedicineBlog

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Homeopathic Remedies for Tooth/Teeth Problems

teethBelow you will find a comprehensive list of homeopathic remedies that are most useful for problems with teeth and are most often used by holistic dentists. I can personally attest to the use of many of these remedies due my years of personal use. As for the dental part, I have found hypericum and arnica to be my go to remedies along with silicea. These were the main 3 that I used during my experience with the cracked teeth. The beauty of homeopathic remedies is that are inexpensive, never go ‘bad’ if kept properly and you will KNOW if you are using the correct one within several minutes as symptoms will begin to ease quickly. Also, homeopathic remedies can be used for many other physical problems, injuries, etc. Please do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have. And as always, see a dentist as soon as possible, when possible.

ABSCESS
Belladonna – Best used for early dental abscess accompanied by redness and throbbing.
Bryonia – Use for acute inflammation or if pricking pain is relieved by firm pressure.
Hepar Sulphuris – Use for abscess accompanied by pus formation.
Myristica – Use when swelling is accompanied by numbness of the area.
Pulsatilla – Use when the pain is accentuated by heat and relieved by cold water.
Pyrogenium – Use when pus is present without drainage.
Silicea – Use to hasten the discharge when pus is draining.This remedy suits especially abscesses about the roots of the teeth and dental fistulae; the pains are worse from eating warm food or or when cold air gets into the mouth; they are worse at night and the teeth feel loose.

APPREHENSION
Aconite – Use for panic, fright, and general mental and physical restlessness, or sudden violent attacks.
Calcerea carbonica – Use for the fearful, weary, and hopeless person who worries toward evening.
Coffea cruda (potentized coffee) – Works well as a tranquilizer.
Chamomilla – as a tranquilizing action for restful sleep. Also raises low pain threshold.
Gelsemium sempervirens- works well for panic attack worry/fear
Nux vomica – Works well in many high strung, nervous, irritable people with stomach problems.
Pulsatilla – Use for states of anxiety.

BRUXISM-TEETH GRINDING
Belladonna – Use for grinding problem that causes painful teeth.
Podophyllum – Use for night grinding when experiencing a burning sensation of the tongue.
Tuberculinum – Use for children who grind their teeth.
Zlncum metallicum – Use for teeth gritting during difficult times/stress and associated with loose teeth and bleeding gums.

GINGIVITIS PERIODONTITIS AND ALVEOLITIS
Arsenicum album – Use for unhealthy, bleeding gums.
China – Use for gum tissue that is bleeding.
Ferrum phosphoricum – Use for poor gum tone or gums that bleed after brushing.
Hypericum – Use for tender gum tissue and to promote healing.
Kali chloricum – Use for acute ulcerative tissue.
Mercurius- more often indicated in toothache than any other remedy. Its special indications are a pulsating toothache, due to inflamed dentine or to periostitis of the sockets; it is worse at night and in damp weather. The teeth feel elongated and sore, and this soreness affects the whole of the jaw and face, and is worse from warmth, somewhat relieved by gentle rubbing of the face. It is the chief remedy in painful ulcerations at the roots of the teeth and for pain in the hollow teeth, the gums are swollen, ulcerated and retracted from the teeth, and there is usually an offensive odor from the mouth.
Naturium muriaticum – Tissue integrity.
Hepar sulphuris – Tissue with suppuration, chronic abcesses.
Silicea – Periodontal abscess with swollen glands.
Staphysagria – Loose teeth, pain increased by pressure.With this remedy the gums are unhealthy and retracted, and there is a tendency to decay of the teeth. They turn black and crumble as soon as they appear, a condition found in sycotic children. It is a splendid remedy for gnawing in the roots of decayed teeth, affecting a whole row, and is especially adapted to old women who have a mouthful of painful stumps.
Symphytum – Injuries to periosteum. Stimulates growth of epithelium on ulcerated surfaces.
Mercurius solubilis – Use for acute ulcerative tissue with a coated tongue and metallic taste in the mouth.
Nux vomica – Use for swollen painful gums when the back of the tongue has a whitish coating and when the patient consumes a lot of stimulants such as coffee and tea.
Phosphorus – Use on swollen gums that bleed easily, and when there’s an overproduction of saliva.
Ruta graveolens – Use for injured bone and alveolitis (“dry socket”).

HEMORRHAGE
Arnica – Use for bleeding accompanied by bruised soreness.
Ferrum phosphoricum – Use when there is bright red bleeding.
Phosphorus – Use for persistent bleeding.

NEURALGIA
Arnica- use for feeling of being bruised/broken with dull throbbing especially when it hurts to talk.
Aconite – Trigeminal neuralgia
Aranea diadema – Use for radiating pain in the right side of the face that is aggravated by cold. Also use for sudden, severe pain in the teeth at night after lying down.
Cuprum metallicum – Use for cramping of muscles.
Gelsemium sempervirens – Use to relieve headache and pain of the upper back and neck, which extends over the head and for dizziness and numbness.
Hypericum- use for sharp nerve like pain.
Ignacia – Use for headache as if a nail were driven through the side of the head.
Lachesis – Left-sided complaints
Lycopodium – Right-sided complaints
Magnesia phosphorus – Use for spasmodic pains made worse by cold water and made better by heat and rubbing.
Sanguinaria – Right-sided neuralgia-facial migraine.
Spigelia – Use for pain involving the eye, cheek, and left temple areas.
Zincum phosphoricum – Sharp pains on right side of head.
Zincum valerian – Sharp pains on left side of head.

POST OPERATIVE DISCOMFORT
Apis mellifica – Good for post-injection soreness after dental work.
Chamomilla – Give one hour prior to dental appointrnent for patients with a low pain threshold. It also expedites the wearing off of the numbness following the dental appointment.
Hypericum – Use where there is an injured nerve.
Ledum – Use for puncture wounds and soreness resulting from a dental injection.
Magnesia phosphorica – Use for stiff, sore jaws following prolonged dental work when the muscles are cramped and feel better with warmth.
Staphysagria – Use for incision-type wounds after soft tissue surgery.
Symphytum – Use for trauma of bone and periosteum and damaged teeth

SALIVATION
Baryta carbonica – Use when there is excessive saliva during sleep.
Bryonia alba – Use for an extremely dry mouth, with dryness of mucous membranes and great thirst.
Phosphorus – Use for hypersalivation and when gums are swollen and bleed easily.
Pulsatilla – Use for diminished saliva with no thirst.

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT (TMJ)
Arum triphyllum – Use for pain in joint on swallowing.
Calcarea flourica – Use for hypermobile joints
Calcarea phosphorica – Use when mouth cannot be opened without pain.
Carbo vegetabilis – Use for vertigo with nausea and tinnitus.
Chamomilla – Use for low pain threshold. Unbearable spasms of pain radiating into the ear.
Cuprum metallicum – Use for trismus of muscles.
Granatum – Use for painful cracking of the joint.
Magnesium phosphorica – Use for muscle spasms.
Phytolacca decanda – Use for earaches with pain extending into teeth, jaw, and throat.
Rhus toxicodendron – Use for joint stiffness that improves with movement and for popping” of TMJ.

TOOTHACHE
Arnica-Use for cracked tooth that hurts with pressure applied, low throbbing pain…think bruised tooth
Antimonium crudum – Use for a toothache that is worse at night and is aggravated by heat.
Aranea diadema – Use for sudden, severe pain in the teeth after lying down.
Belladonna – Use for throbbing tooth that’s worse when pressure is applied. Has toothache from inflammation of dental pulp. The pains are burning and throbbing, worse at night, worse on contact, as in chewing and in the open air. There is a red hot face and great nervous excitability.
Calcarea carbonica – Use for a toothache that worsens when exposed to hot or cold air.
Chamomilla – Use for a toothache with intolerable pain that’s worse from warmth and not better with cold. Excellent remedy in unbearable toothache affecting a whole row of teeth occurring in paroxysms, with pains radiating to the ears. The special features are the intolerance of pain, aggravation, from warmth. It is worse during and after eating warm food, and especially from drinking coffee.
Coffea cruda – Use for toothache that worsens with heat and is relieved by ice. This remedy will often remove the most severe pains of toothache which almost drive the patient frantic. It is a stinging, jerking, intermittent pain, worse while chewing, worse from warm drink, and entirely relieved for a time by holding cold water in the mouth, returning when the water becomes warm. It suits especially hypersensitive, nervous persons.
Ferrum metallicum – Use for a toothache that is relieved by ice water.
Magnesia carbonica – Use for a toothache that is worse at night, Patient must get up and walk about for relief.
Magnesia phosphorica – Use for a toothache that is worse from cold and better from warmth.
Mercurius
Taken all in all, Mercurius is probably more often indicated in toothache than any other remedy. Its special indications are a pulsating toothache, due to inflamed dentine or to periostitis of the sockets; it is worse at night and in damp weather. The teeth feel elongated and sore, and this soreness affects the whole of the jaw and face, and is worse from warmth, somewhat relieved by gentle rubbing of the face. It is the chief remedy in painful ulcerations at the roots of the teeth and for pain in the hollow teeth, the gums are swollen, ulcerated and retracted from the teeth, and there is usually an offensive odor from the mouth.
Plantago major – Use for a toothache that is better with pressure and worse without cold air.
Pulsatilla – Use for a toothache that is relieved by holding cold water in the mouth.
Staphysagria – Use for pain from major decay of a number of teeth.

TOOTH ERUPTION
Calcarea carbonica – Use for a delayed eruption.
Chamomilla – Use for difficult teething.
Zlncum metallicum – Use for teeth gritting during difficult eruption and associated with loose teeth and bleeding gums.

ULCERATIONS
Mercurius
Taken all in all, Mercurius is probably more often indicated in toothache than any other remedy. Its special indications are a pulsating toothache, due to inflamed dentine or to periostitis of the sockets; it is worse at night and in damp weather. The teeth feel elongated and sore, and this soreness affects the whole of the jaw and face, and is worse from warmth, somewhat relieved by gentle rubbing of the face. It is the chief remedy in painful ulcerations at the roots of the teeth and for pain in the hollow teeth, the gums are swollen, ulcerated and retracted from the teeth, and there is usually an offensive odor from the mouth.
Natrum muriaticum – Use for cold sores and fever blisters. Lips and corners of mouth dry and cracked lips.
Nitricum acidum – Use for ulcers with irregular edges and a raw appearance with a tendency to bleed easily.


Dosage Guidelines for Remedies 200 X and Under
Choice of Potency
When the treatment is prescribed on the basis of local signs and symptoms, prescribe low potencies, under 12X.
When the treatment is prescribed on the basis of a mixture of local, general, mental and emotional signs and symtoms, prescribe higher potencies, 30X – 200X.

Times Remedies Should Be Taken
Low potency remedies (under 12X)
first aid every 5-30 minutes
acute conditions every 30 minutes to hourly, decreasing to 3-4 times a day
Medium potency remedies (12X – 30X)
one to three times a day
High potency remedies (30X – 200X)
once a day.
REDUCE FREQUENCY WITH IMPROVEMENT.
Potency Vs. Duration of Action The lower the potency, the shorter its duration of action (acute conditions). The higher the potency, the longer its duration of action (chronic conditions). As opposed to pathologic or specific symptom prescribing, constitutional prescribing does not treat the disease entity, but rather the symptom complex of the individual who has the disease. The purpose of constitutional prescribing is not to seek to change a patient’s character, but by modifying it’s tone balances it, thereby giving systematic, systemic support to the self-healing effort of the organism. By encompassing the sum total of the individual’s physical, emotional, and mental picture constitutional analysis and prescribing performs psychotherapy while also working on the physical level.

Of note, do not worry if you only have ONE ‘potency’. It will still work, just follow the instructions above for what you DO HAVE

Stay safe and be prepared
Survivingshtfmom

http://www.drwolfe.com/dentistry/homeopathic_remedies
http://treatment.hpathy.com/homeo-medicine/homeopathy-teeth-affections-toothache-dental-caries-tooth-abscess/

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November 8, 2014 Posted by | Baby/Infant, Guidelines, Homeopathics, Medical Conditions | , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

When There Is No Dentist Indian Toothache Plant to the Rescue

toothache plant
Did you know that there is actually an analgesic in the plant world that, at least to me, reminds me of lidocaine? YES, there really is! It is known as ‘the toothache plant’ or Indian Toothache Plant. For those of you who are latin name inclined it is known as Spilanthes flower (Spilanthes oleracea and Spilanthes acmella).

I had the unfortunate adventure in 2 cracked teeth just a short while ago and thought I would give this a try, after all, what did I have to loose? So off to the garden I went, picked 2 flower heads and chewed them. Ehhh…oh they worked on numbing my lips, tongue and gums but the tooth? Not so much, not to mention chewing the toothache flowers made me drool like a fool…seriously. Copious amounts of saliva. And the ‘action’ so to speak lasts about 10-15 minutes (at least for me, but I was in serious pain). So you have been warned. Not wanting to give up I next tried chewing the flower heads up thoroughly, then chomped right down on them where the teeth hurt and swished the salvia a bit in my mouth…got closer, that definitely lessened the tooth pain for a few minutes but not enough for me to sit there and keep doing it. So next, I went to my tincture/extract I had just made up 2 weeks before out of the leaves and flower heads. Typically I do NOT like to use an extract/tincture that is less than 6 weeks old, but this was an emergency. So I shook up the jar containing the plant material and alcohol and then drew out about 2ml of the extract/tincture and in the mouth it went…swish, swish, swish…RELIEF. I couldn’t believe it! Not to mention it took away the pain that I get from TMJ. Wow…but again, I must warn you, lots of spit. I swished that extract around for about 3 minutes before I couldn’t stand it anymore. And the complete numbing/tingling effects lasted about 10-15 minutes again, BUT when the effects completely wore off there was LESS pain that before I started, cut by about ½ I would say. Yes, the tooth still hurt, but I could live with it. So of and on over the next few days (along with a couple of other things I have up my sleeve for teeth/gum problems) I used that extract. And within a few days I noticed a few things: a) a great lessening of tooth pain to the point I can now actually CHEW my food without causing pain during or afterwards b) most surprisingly, the pain in jaw is GONE and according to my husband I am NOT grinding my teeth at night. Now, my tooth is still cracked and if I am not paying attention I will give myself the occasional twinge of pain when biting down (because I still clinch my teeth when stressed out) but no dentist trip for me, not this go around.

MEDICINAL USE:
Toothache,throat problems,and paralysis of the tongue.
Rash.
Dysentery.
Laxative.
Rheumatism,scabies,and psoriasis.
Malaria
Wounds of all sorts

HOW TO USE:
The pungent flower-heads and leaves are chewed to take care of toothache, throat problems and paralysis of the tongue.
To get rid of the itching owing to rash,the leaves of the plant are rubbed over the affected parts.
The plant is washed properly and boiled. After it cools down,both the water and the plant material are consumed for getting rid of dysentery. (tea/eat)
The decoction of the root is used as a laxative.
The decoction of the leaves is used as a bath in rheumatism, or as a lotion for scabies, ringworm and psoriasis.
Tincture/extract used for toothaches, mouth ulcers, gum disease, canker sores etc.
You may also gargle with either the tea or the tincture for throat issues or just as a general ‘healthy’ mouth routine.

PARTS USED:
The whole plant.

DOSE:
As recommended above. There is no known ‘toxic’dose.

Spilanthol is the active chemical in the toothache plant with effective local anesthetic action. This action works surprisingly fast. If you have a toothache and rub a leaf on the gum area of the toothache, the area tingles and then goes numb within a few seconds. Or the leaf, after chewing to release the juice, is tucked in the mouth between the gums and cheek for toothache. It is also used for sore gums, teething babies, and mouth ulcers. The numbness lasts for a short period of time, and acts to desensitize the area and diminish the pain. Rub on as often as needed to relieve pain or discomfort. But the tincture or decoction is BEST for a true toothache/cavity.

The leaves can be rubbed on cuts, hard to heal sores and acne. Also, this plant has a natural antibiotic action, which adds to the healing effect. Try the leaves on cold sores (or a couple of drops of tincture). I did try this out too (why not?) and found the chewed up leaves/flower heads had a very numbing effect on the area where topically applied especially after warming the skin up with a hot, moist towel for a few minutes.

For people who suffer with thrush, candida, frequent viruses, fungal and auto-immune diseases, eating the leaves in salads or sandwiches, can be of real benefit. Or take a cup of tea daily.

While the most common and widespread medicinal use for Acmella oleracea is to treat toothaches, throat and gum infections it is also bacteriostatic, meaning it helps to fight tooth decay. A mouth rinse of spilanthes extract can be used daily to promote gum health, and chewing as little as a single bud of the plant can numb the mouth and reduce the pain of toothache for up to 20 minutes depending on the sensitivity of the person. The most promising research into the use of spilanthes is in its antibacterial properties. So far, in vitro testing has shown that the plant’s extract has strong effect against E.coli, pseudomonas, salmonella, klebsiella pneumonae and staphylococcus albus, as well as inhibiting the growth of candida albicans.

Science has shown that the flower heads contain up to 1.25% of spilanthol, an antiseptic alkaloid which is effective at very low concentrations against blood parasites. It also enhances the immune system. Spilanthes extract has been discovered to aid in saliva stimulation for people suffering from dry mouth. A decoction or infusion of the leaves and flowers is a traditional remedy for stammering, toothache, stomatitis, and throat complaints.

Acmella oleracea extract is reported to reduce muscle tension when applied topically (hmmm, muscle relaxer for suffers of TMJ).

Sound interesting? Does to me and I know for a fact that it works for mouth and jaw pain. While typically found in Africa and other Southern areas such as Brazil, I was very fortunate to have been able to obtain 4 small plants this year for my garden as I am a lover of exotic plants and ‘weeds’. And it GREW like wild fire and, as I found out, it is pretty cold hardy too…still alive after a few nights of around 30 degrees though not looking so great. I did collect the seed heads for growing next year. I have also heard that people have grown this plant as an indoor one, making fresh plant material and flower heads available year around am trying that right now. And after my experience with the Toothache Plant, I put this plant at the top of my list of things to grow and think you should too. Great painkiller that is all natural with no known contradictions in its use.
While the toothache plant wasn’t and isn’t my only weapon of choice right now, it will be my ‘go to’ from here on out.

There are other herbs and homeopathics that really help with gum and tooth problems but this one plant is a must have. More to come on self-help when there is no dentist!

Stay safe and be prepared
survivingshtfmom

November 7, 2014 Posted by | Baby/Infant, Herbs, Medical Conditions, Self-Help | , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Cold? Flu? Allergies? Pt.3 Help for the Cold Using Homeopathics

So, we have looked at how to tell the difference between colds, flues and allergies and ways to prevent ‘catching’ something…but we are human with human bodies and now we turn our attention to ‘what to do if’ you are not so fortunate in fending off a virus or bacteria and get a cold or flu. This part will concentrate upon homeopathic remedies for a cold/cough and these remedies would make a great addition to any preparedness minded individuals first aid kit or for anyone trying to help themselves.

 

What is a homeopathic? Homeopathy is a holistic health practice that is a part of alternative medicine. Homeopathic remedies are made from plants and other substances found in nature. They are highly diluted from original tinctures, or extracts with a long history of safe use. The Homeopathic Materia Medica lists thousands of remedies that can be used for a variety of conditions.

 

My own personal favorite websites to buy these remedies from are:

http://abchomeopathy.com

http://elixirs.com

 

They WORK. They are safe, natural and easily obtained right now. They are generally very specific in what they ‘treat’ but work on the principle of ‘like cures like’. Homeopathy goes back to the time Aristotle and has proven very effective in short-term or acute illnesses. The trick is to be able to identify your symptoms correctly and to remember to take them repeatedly…its not just pop the pill and go on about your business. You also need to pay attention to see if ‘it’ (the remedy) is working for you. If after 2 doses it is not helping the symptoms then you need to select a different remedy. You do not need a lot of the said remedy to in order to see results, just the correct one. Homeopathy is safe for EVERYONE including infants, the elderly and those on medications. They do not interfere with OTC’s but can be interrupted by foods and drinks that we commonly take such as coffee, alcohol, vinegar, toothpaste and certain essential oils and tobacco products. (Though through personal use I have found that if the remedy is going to work, it will work regardless).

Something nice about homeopathic remedies…they don’t go ‘bad’ when properly stored. Cool and dark place with low moisture. A few years ago the FDA forced homeopathic companies to put ‘expiration’ dates on their products, but this I believe was misguided as

Rule of thumb when using a homeopathic…have a ‘clean mouth’. In otherwords, no food or drink for 20 minutes before or after dosing with a homeopathic. Another rule of thumb that cannot be repeated too often, if you are not getting symptom relief, stop taking it! If after 2-3 doses over a 1 hour time period you are not seeing results you can induce the symptoms of the remedy that you are trying to cure…it is called proving and can make symptoms you didn’t have appear. IF YOU DON’T SEE A REDUCTION IN SYMPTOMS THEN STOP TAKING THE REMEDY.

 

Depending upon what symptoms you are displaying you may want either one of the single remedies or a combination remedy. Typically a homeopathic remedy is a pellet, liquid or soft tablet. Directions on ‘how much’ to take come on the package. What I will suggest however is disregarding the ‘how often’.

 

Acute/Active Symptoms: 3-5 pellets (2-3 tabs or 3-5 drops) every 15mins for the first hour or until symptoms begin to clear up. If after 4 doses in the first hour you aren’t noticing any benefit, reassess your symptoms and try something else.

Onset/Not Too Bad/Just Beginning: 2-3 pellets (1-2 tabs or 2-3 drops) every 20-30 minutes until you notice the symptoms are gone.

In both cases once you get your symptoms under control (in otherwords, symptom relief)

back off dosing to every ½ hour. If you symptoms begin to return within that half hour time frame continue to take the remedy every half hour. As time progresses you will notice a greater period of time between displaying of symptoms…you will have to pay attention to this. If at the half hour mark you still have no symptoms wait until the one hour mark before taking another dose and then pay attention as to when the symptoms begin to return so that you are gradually decreasing your dosing schedule to 2-3 times per day, increasing length of time between doses by a ½ hour each time. Once you have reached this 2-3 times per day for 1-2 days you can then stop taking the remedy and you are ‘cured’. With children I always recommend to stop after being symptom free for 1 day.

Infants dosing should be ½ of that of an adults dose, however, as I have learned, sometimes with a young child the adult dose is appropriate to initially relieve symptoms so do not be afraid to use more in a infant or young child.

AGAIN…the trick is watch for symptom reduction! If you aren’t seeing a reduction in symptoms with the first hour of use (2-4 doses) then move onto another homeopathic!! I have increased the amount taken in children in very stubborn or acute symptoms just to ‘tamp’ it down quickly and then reduce the amount taken once I have reduced symptoms.

Homeopathics for Cold Symptoms:

 

Remedies are chosen based on the symptoms for which each one is indicated.

 

Aconite Napellus

This homeopathic remedy is often indicated during the beginning signs of a cold. If you feel anxious and agitated as well as thirsty, aconite may be needed. Symptoms that point to the use of this remedy include a dry, stuffy nose with a thin nasal discharge. A choking cough may be present, along with a scratchy throat. This remedy is recommended for children who are visibly chilled during a cold.

 

Allium Cepa

Allium Cepa may be needed when a cold coincides with a teasing cough. A clear discharge may come from the runny nose that is very irritating to the nostrils and upper lip. Open air can often stop the runny nose, but being inside can make symptoms worse.

 

Baryta Carbonica

When an individual has recurrent colds that seem to appear after being chilled, baryta carb may be indicated. A runny nose may be accompanied by swollen lymph nodes, tonsils or adenoids when this remedy is needed.

 

Bryonia Alba

Bryonia alba, also called bryony is a common homeopathic remedy for congestion (nasal and chest), it is considered most appropriate for people who tend towards irritability and perfectionism, and who become demanding and critical when ill. If symptoms are aggravated by movement, cold and dampness, but relieved by warmth and rest, this is another indication for bryonia.

Euphrasia

When the eyes are red, irritated and watery from a cold, Euphrasia is a commonly indicated remedy. A cough may result from an irritated throat with a collection of phlegm. Nighttime can cause an increase in symptoms, though lying down may offer some relief for the person in need of this homeopathic remedy.

 

Gelsemium

If your head cold leaves you feeling lethargic and achy, gelsemium may be indicated. This remedy is often helpful if the cold is accompanied by a headache, fever and chills along the spine. You may also feel heat or pressure on the face and nose. If you are trembling or shaky, this may be the remedy of choice.

 

Hepar Sulph

When you suffer from a very loose, rattling cough with gagging that produces a yellow mucus, hepar sulph may be indicated. An extreme sensitivity to cold may also suggest the need for this homeopathic remedy. Cold foods or beverages may induce a coughing fit and make you feel even worse. Emotional vulnerability, irritability and touchiness may all indicate this as the remedy of choice. Hepar sulph is often used in cases of bronchitis and croup.

 

Kali Bichromicum

May be used for the chest congestion and cough of bronchitis, particularly when coughing causes pain behind the breastbone. A homeopath is even more likely to prescribe kali bichromicum if symptoms are worse in the cold and early in the morning, but improve with warmth.

Natrum Muriaticum

Natrum is often indicated when a head cold produces a clear nasal discharge and sneezing that is worse in the morning. Chapped or cracked lips may be present, as well as cold sores around the mouth. You may experience a headache along with a dampened sense of smell or taste when in need of this homeopathic remedy.

Nux Vomica

Those who suffer from nasal congestion that becomes much worse at night, yet turns into running in the day time, may need Nux Vomica. A burning sensation may accompany the runny nose. Irritability and impatience are also common when Nux Vomica is needed for a cold. The remedy may be administered every

Phosphorus

If hoarseness is present with a tickly cough hurting the throat, this remedy may be needed. Phosphorus is also indicated when a cold travels to the chest quickly. Talking or laughing may aggravate the cough. This homeopathic remedy is often indicated in cases of laryngitis.

Pulsatilla

This homeopathic remedy is one of the best for colds that result in thick yellow or green mucus. A stuffy nose may occur while indoors, but become runny when outside in open air. An increase in congestion and high fever may take place in the evening. If coughs are dry in the evening, yet become loose in the morning, this remedy may be needed. Children who need Pulsatilla often wish to be held or comforted, and respond well to the remedy.
Most Indicated Homeopathic Remedies for Infants and Toddlers

Aconite

Aconite is often needed when the symptoms of a cold first appear. The child may appear to be chilled with the onset of symptoms taking place after exposure to cold air. Symptoms may worsen after midnight in the child who needs aconite. Anxiousness and thirst may also be present. Aconite should be used when a cold comes on suddenly accompanied by chills, sweats and a fever. According to Dr. Ellen Feingold, the remedy should be taken every 30 minutes to two hours until symptoms resolve.

Allium Cepa

When a child has a cold that causes a burning discharge from the eyes and nose along with excessive sneezing, Dr. Carolyn Dean recommends Allium Cepa. This homeopathic cold remedy should be given every 30 minutes to two hours. When improvement is seen in the discharge, the frequency may be decreased. The remedy may be stopped once the inflammation of the eyes and nose has resolved.

Gelsemium

Colds that come on slowly in a fatigued child with vague muscle aches, headaches and chills up the spine, indicate that Gelsemium may be the homeopathic remedy of choice. A fever is often present, but the child does not appear thirsty. Administer the remedy every 30 minutes to two hours, slowly reducing the frequency as the symptoms abate.

Nux Vomica

Infants who suffer from nasal congestion that becomes much worse at night, yet turns into running in the day time, may need Nux Vomica. A burning sensation may accompany the runny nose. According to Dr. Maesimund B. Panos, irritability and impatience are also common when Nux Vomica is needed for a cold. The remedy may be administered every 30 minutes to two hours, reducing the frequency as symptoms begin to disappear.

Pulsatilla

Pulsatilla is often the best remedy when a cold is accompanied by thick yellow mucus discharged in large amounts. If an infant does not have a fever yet feels warm consistently, this may be a well-suited remedy. Give Pulsatilla every 30 minutes to two hours. Once the mucous has become clear or less prevalent, immediately reduce the frequency of administration.
(taken from livingstrong.com)

 

There are many combination homeopathic remedies that contain the above listed remedies. Many people will choose a combination remedy to use to take the guess work out of the situation.

Some of the ones that I have found most effective are:

 

Cold and Flu Remedy by Family Homeopathic Medicine™ which is produced by a company called Vitasalus and can be found at their website: http://vitasalus.com

ColdCalm by Boiron…though I have found this combination remedy best for the start of cold and not for symptoms that are full-blown.

 

I will mention too that I keep handy this cough syrup by Boiron. It is called Chestal Honey and it works well too! There is one for adults and one for children and is in a honey base (not suitable for infants).

 

Here is a very handy chart I found at: http://health.hpathy.com/common-cold_hugall.asp

 

Print it off and keep it handy just in case!

 

REMEDY

KEYNOTE   SYMPTOMS

OTHER   SYMPTOMS

MAKES   YOU FEEL BETTER

MAKES   YOU FEEL WORSE
         
Aconite

Comes   on suddenly.

Fearful,   restless, cheeks hot and red.

First   stage of cold. Caused by exposure to cold dry winds

Sudden   dry painful cough/croup watery mucous, sweats on uncovered parts. High fever   with sensitivity to light. Thirsty, watery runny nose, possible bright red   nose bleed.

Fresh open   air, sleep

Warm   stuffy room

In the   evening and at night

Lying on   affected side. Irritated by music, dry,

cold   winds.
Allium cepa

Profuse,   bland, watery discharge from eyes. Nasal discharge is profuse and burning.   Warm rooms aggravate, better in open air.

Eyes run   but the discharge is usually bland

Violent   sneezing.

Mucous   burns/corrodes top lip. Tickle in larynx, hoarseness, hacking cough worse   breathing in cold air

desires   onions

Fresh   air

Evening.

Cold air.

Stuffy   room.

Getting   feet wet.
Arsenicum album

Complaints   are usually right-sided. Watery, burning nasal discharge. Restlessness,   weakness, anxiety, thirsty for sips at frequent intervals, chilly, desires   company.

Right   nostril burns/corrodes top lip watery thin discharge, but nose feels blocked.   Excessive sneezing, Irritation, tickling of the nose. Cold might move to   chest.

Heat,   elevated head,

Warm   drinks, company

Wet,   windy weather.

Midnight   to 2am. Sight or smell of food.
Belladona

First   stage of cold, sudden onset,

high   fever, red face, cold extremeties, throbbing pains, patient radiates heat.

Skin hot,   dry with high temperature
Throbbing headache, very thirsty or not thirsty at all

sore   throat on right side

Tickly   throat, light hurts eyes
Eyes glassy
Eyes dilated

delirious   in high fever
dry barking cough
desires lemons or lemonade

Sitting   upright or standing.

In warm   room

Jarring,   movement,

Noise,   drafts.

From   lying down.

After   12noon,

3PM
Bryonia alba

A Cold   slow to develop, painful coughs–patient holds chest when he coughs; worse   from slightest movement, dry mucus membranes and very thirsty, worse for   company, worse for having to answer questions, very irritable, wants to be   alone.

Better   for being still and quiet.

cold   moves into chest. A painful, dry, spasmodic cough. Left-sided headache,   otherwise, right-sided complaints.

From   applying firm, cool pressure to head and chest.

In cool   surroundings

For   movement.

Bright   lights.

Eating,   noise

and touch

9pm and   3pm.
Dulcamara

Worse   from damp and cold/damp weather, worse from change of weather, worse from   drafts.

Thick   saliva and hoarse voice

Possible   cold sores

Thirst   for cold drinks

Post-nasal   drip, lumbago or an Earache, watery diarrhea

warm,   dry air.

Movement

For   rest.

At night.

Cold,   damp weather
Euphrasia

The   opposite of Allium Cepa: Nasal discharge is bland; discharge from the eyes is   burning. Cough only in the daytime.

Copious   fluid from nose

Bursting   sensation as sinuses fill. At night little pains all over body. Heat/fever   descends the body, sweats only on front.

Later   symptoms, chilliness, loose violent cough, pressing pain under sternum.

Lying   down in darkened room but may feel more blocked up.

For   coffee

From   warm, windy weather. Being indoors.

In the   evening.

Bright   light.
Ferrum phos.

A cold   that comes on slowly. Beginning of colds when symptoms are vague. Right-sided   complaints.

Mild   fever may be present

Mouth   feels hot.

Throat is   red and swollen.

Possible   nose bleeds.

Gentle   exercise.

Applying   a cold compress to the forehead.

For   fresh air.

In the   Sun.

For   jarring or touch. Lying on right side. Between

4am&   6pm
Gelsemium

Cold   comes on gradually. Patient’s appearance: dopey, drowsy, droopy and dull. You   could also add dizzy! Inclination to sleep. Apathetic. Weakness, chills run   up and down back, headache starts in back of head or neck and spreads   forward, heavy head, thirstless.

Tiredness,   heavy body sensation. Headache above nape of neck. Tickling in nose gets   worse. Later a running nose, watery and irritating

Fresh   air.

movement,

After   urinating.

Bending   forward, sweating.

Drinking   alcohol.

Before   thunderstorm.

Early in   the morning and last thing at night.

Humidity.

Tobacco   smoke.
Hepar sulph

Over-sensitive   to pain; anxiety, irritable, angry outbursts, chilly and worse from cold,   intolerant of drafts, worse uncovering a hand or a foot, swollen glands, bad   odor of discharges, splinter-like pains.

Cold   starts with watery runny nose. Later, excessive yellow mucous with   offensive-smelling discharge and sneezing. Irritability and chilliness.

For   wrapping

head   firmly.

Warm,   moist environment.

In   cold air, draughts.

Getting   cold from undressing.

If   touched.
Kali bichrom

Second   stage of cold.

Thick,   yellow, ropy, stringy nasal discharge. Sinusitis.

Thick   post-nasal drip.

Thick   mucous may block nose.

yellow or   green discharge with postnasal drip. Sinus headaches, pressure pain at root   of nose.

From   warmth

In   the morning.

Hot   weather

Getting   cold from undressing.
Natrum mur

Beginning   stages of a cold with sneezing. “Egg-white” nasal discharge. Runny   eyes worse in open air or wind. Sun and light aggravate. Warm, worse heat.   Cold sores on lips, vesicles in mouth, cracked lips, ailments from grief.

Wants   to be left alone.

A dislike   for sympathy.

Cold   starts with fits of sneezing and a thin catarrhal discharge consistency of   the white of a raw egg. Nose maybe blocked with tendency towards developing   cold sores.

Applying   cold compresses to the sinuses.

Fasting.

Fresh   open air

In sea   air or wet weather. Mental, physical exertion. Around 10am. Bright light or   hot sun. Noise, talking, music.
Nux vomica

Cold,   chills, worse slightest draft of air, ailments from over-work, irritable and   angry, impatient; runny nose in the morning, obstructed at night; stomach   pains, better warm drinks, constipation with ineffectual urging.

Runny   nose during the day

blocked   at night.

Overcritical   of others, impulsive,

chilliness,   watery eyes,

sneezing,   headache,

sore   throat

Sleep,

warmth.

Firm   pressure,

in the   evening.

Washing   and

warm   compresses

Windy,   Cold, dry weather. In public places. After over-indulgence of spicy foods

and   stimulants such as coffee.

Between

3am &   4am.
Pulsatilla

Patient   is weepy and wants to be consoled. Warm and worse heat, worse sun, better   walking slowly in open air, worse warm stuffy rooms, dry mouth but no thirst,   worse at twilight, worse from fatty foods; bland and often greenish nasal   discharge

Possible   nose bleeds

runny   nose during the day,

blocked   nose at night

thirstless,   loss of smell

Headache   above eyes

Crying   and Sympathy.

Exercise   and

fresh   open air.

Cold drinks,   cold compresses.

Raising   hands above the head.

Rich,   fatty foods.

Heat, In   the sun.

In the   evening and at night.
Rhus tox.

Second   stage of cold

Congested   nose and scratchy throat. Worse cold and cold wet weather. Better warmth and   warm bathing. Stiffness and restlessness. Desires cold milk. Worse in cloudy,   foggy, rainy weather; worse getting wet. Can’t be still, must move.

Thick,   yellow/green nasal discharge with a red scratchy throat, dry cough, tickling,   hoarseness. Cough prevents sleep

From   warmth, hot bathing.

>From   motion.

For   changing positions.

Cough   worse in cold room.

Cold,   wet, rainy weather.

During   sleep.

 

I cannot emphasize enough that if you don’t see symptom improvement within 4 doses in the first 1-2 hours then you need to try a different one…don’t keep taking something that isn’t working for you!

Also, I will note, that if you aren’t getting better within a week, symptoms become severe or a high temperature is run for more than 6hrs, you should seek professional help. Wisdom is knowing when to ask others for help.

The next article will discuss and share homeopathic remedies for the flu. Be sure to see Pt.4 coming soon!

December 6, 2011 Posted by | Baby/Infant, Homeopathics, Medical Conditions, Self-Help | , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Dehydration

Dehydration can happen anytime, to anyone. Simply put, dehydration is the sudden loss of fluids from the body which isn’t replaced as quickly as it is lost. The most vulnerable amongst us is the elderly and the very young. Often it happens during the summer time (from plain old not replenishing fluids) but it can also happen when we are sick, loosing fluids due to vomiting or diarrhea, blood loss, malnutrition or running a temperature and sweating. Often overlooked is frequent urination (as a cause of) due to Moreover, frequent urination due to diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption or prolonged intake of medicines like diuretics, antipsychotics, blood pressure medications. Those who are these medications should take special precautions to avoid dehydration.

Anytime we do not have enough fluids in our body (or do not replace them fast enough) dehydration occurs. Dehydration can occur very quickly in young children and infants so anytime a young child or infant is sick, please do not wait before symptoms appear…take action immediately to PREVENT dehydration. For adults, prevent is rather easy, drink before you become thirsty.

The Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration

Symptoms of dehydration usually begin with thirst and progress to more alarming manifestations as the need for water becomes more dire. The initial signs and symptoms of mild dehydration in adults appear when the body has lost about 2% of it’s total fluid. These mild dehydration symptoms are often (but not limited to):

  • Thirst
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Dry Skin
  • SkinFlushing
  • Dark Colored Urine (or strong smelling)
  • Dry Mouth
  • fatigue or Weakness
  • Chills
  • Head Rushes

If the dehydration is allowed to continue unabated, when the total fluid loss reaches 5% the following effects of dehydration are normally experienced:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Increased respiration
  • Decreased sweating
  • Decreased urination
  • Increased body temperature
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Muscle cramps
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Tingling of the limbs

When the body reaches 10% fluid loss emergency help is needed IMMEDIATELY! 10% fluid loss and above is often fatal! Symptoms of severe dehydration include:

  • Muscle spasms
  • Vomiting
  • Racing pulse
  • Shriveled skin
  • Dim vision
  • Painful urination
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Seizures
  • Chest and Abdominal pain
  • unconsciousness

With children and infants it may be hard to spot and includes all of the above PLUS:

  • Fussiness and irritability
  • Lethargic or ‘lifeless’
  • Hard to wake up
  • Very little energy
  • Sunken eyes
  • Dry nose or mouth
  • Decreased or no urination (dry diaper)
  • Glassy eyes
  • Difficulty focusing or paying attention
  • Sunken ‘soft spot’
  • Tearless crying

Prevention is key with dehydration. If you are working outside or playing outside when it is hot, or you have no air conditioning, or you or someone you knows becomes sick for whatever reason there are some very simple things that you can do to prevent dehydration or treat it before it becomes life-threatening:

PUSH THE FLUIDS! An electrolyte drink or one of the ‘home’ remedies is best to use to prevent dehydration. If someone is sick or is vomiting or has diarrhea a good rule of thumb is one cup of fluids to each ‘throw up’ or ‘loose stool’. It is okay if they/you throw it back up, not all of it ‘comes back up’.

Simple electrolyte drink (for adults and children over age 3, see further down for infants and young children’s formula)

½ tsp of table salt

¼ tsp of a salt substitute or potassium chloride

½ tsp of baking soda

2 tbsp of sugar

Add the salt, salt substitute, baking soda and sugar to 1 quart of boiling water. Allow the water to cool before giving. You may add one package of unsweetened kool-aid to flavor this (not the kind where you just add water!).

Infants and Young Child Re-hydration Solution at the bottom!

Natural Remedies For Dehydration and Prevention:

Prevention: (good for any reason)

  • Avoid junk food, fatty foods, fruit juices, apricots, peas, pears, peaches, plums, prunes, etc.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated beverages
  • Eat yogurt, buttermilk, mint, apple, pomegrant, papya, bananas, carrots, potatos
  • Drink a mixture of 1 tsp mint juice (make an infusion), ½ tsp ginger juice (infusion) and 1 tsp of honey

Treatments for dehydration:

  • Refer to the above for prevention
  • Drink ½ tsp dry ginger in 1 cup buttermilk 3-4 times a day
  • Drink the Simple Electrolyte Drink (this especially important if you are in a moderate to severe dehydration stage and can’t get to a doctor).
  • Add three to four drops of peppermint essential oil to glass of water. Drink this mixture for immediate relief from dehydration.(only when it is just starting)
  • Yogurt is the best food for dehydration, thus consume at least one bowl of yogurt in day. You may even add some chopped basil leaves with pinch of black pepper for yummy taste.
  • Mix ripe banana with two teaspoonful of honey. Consume this mixture to beat excessive weakness due to dehydration. You may eat this mixture two times in a day.
  • Stew 1 apple with 1/8 tsp of nutmeg powder and 1 tsp of sugar for children to eat.
  • Drink a mixture of one teaspoon each of sugar and lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a pint of water. Drink this throughout the day from time to time to heal the problem.
  • Drink water mixed with apple juice or orange juice.
  • Sipping some pickle juice and then drink water before going out in the sun.
  • Eat fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content such as watermelons, strawberries, raisins, cucumbers, tomatoes and other similar foods.

Small infants and very young children:.

Note: Formula for Infant/Young children ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) is different and is found below:

 1 Liter Oral Rehydration Solution for Infants and Young Children:

1 tsp salt

8 tsp sugar

 

Heat 1 liter (5 cups) of water to a boil and then add the salt and sugar to the water, stirring until dissolved. Serve once it has cooled.

 

Homemade Cereal-based ORS:

 

½ to 1 cup precooked baby rice cereal or 1 ½ tbsp of sugar

2 cups water

½ tsp salt

Mix well the rice cereal (or sugar) water and salt together until the mixture thickens but is not too thick to drink.

Give the mixture often by spoon and as much as the baby will accept (every minute if possible)

  • Use the Oral Re-Hydration Infant Solution and not the adult version!
  • Keep giving liquids slowly until the child’s urine becomes clear in color.
  • If the child is vomiting, give small amounts of solution at frequent intervals — try a spoonful or so every few minutes, for instance. If your child can’t keep this down, wait 30 to 60 minutes and try again.
  • Room temperature fluids are best.
  • If breast feeding…continue to breast-feed. Don’t stop breast-feeding when your baby is sick, but offer your baby an oral rehydration solution in a bottle as well.
  • For babies that drink formula, try switching to one that’s lactose-free until diarrhea improves — lactose can be difficult to digest during diarrhea, making diarrhea worse.
  • Infants who are bottle-fed should continue to drink formula diluted to half strength. (in cases of vomiting and diarrhea)

Young children should not drink soda, juices, or sports drinks such as Gatorade. They do not contain the right amount of glucose, sodium, chloride, and potassium to properly balance the electrolyte levels.

  

the above was taken in whole from: http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/epr/public/h1n1/homehealthcare/Preventing%20and%20Treating%20Dehydration.pdf

Please NOTE: that for young children the re-hydration drink formula is DIFFERENT than the adult/older child formula.

 

The above are ways that you may help yourself either prevent or take care of dehydration at home. It cannot be stressed enough that prevention is the best way to go, but just in case you find yourself having to deal with dehydration you now have the information and knowledge is power.

If you find yourself experiencing any symptoms beyond that of mild dehydration please seek professional medical care immediately. Do not attempt to treat severe dehydration yourself unless it is absolutely impossible to get proper medical treatment.

*All information has been taken from the internet or professional reference books.

July 18, 2011 Posted by | Baby/Infant, Guidelines, Medical Conditions, Self-Help | , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment