The Scope of Homeopathy in Various Auto Immune Diseases

The environment where we live is packed with various harmful agents like bacteria, virus, allergy inducing particles (antigens), chemicals, dusts, pollutants etc. Every moment they are entering inside our body either through the air that we breathe or foods or drinks that we take or through skin by contact with. Inside our body there is a defence unity called body   immune system that consist of various immune cells.Those immune cells of our immune system acts like well trained shoulders at the situation whenever any foreign particles like virus, bacteria or harmful substance enter inside our body they fight with them to kill and protect our body and cells from their attack. So every moment our immune cells are engaged in searching and fighting with the foreign substances to keep our body safe and healthy.

BUT, sometimes our immune system get confuse to recognize between our own cell and outer foreign particles and start attacking our own cells thinking of foreign particle by which some health issues are developed. This is called auto immune disease. There are as many as 80 types of autoimmune diseases. Some common auto immune diseases are

• Rheumatoid arthritis - inflammation of joints and surrounding tissues
• leucoderma (vitiligo) - white patches on the skin
• Psoriasis - a skin condition that causes redness and irritation as well as thick, flaky,silver-white patches
• SLE - affects skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs
• Celiac sprue - a reaction to gluten (found in wheat, rye, and barley) that causes damage to the lining of the small intestine
• Inflammatory bowel disease - a group of inflammatory diseases of the colon and small intestine
• Type 1 diabetes - destruction of insulin producing cells in the pancreas
• Sjögren’s syndrome - destroys the glands that produce tears and saliva 
• Pernicious anemia- decrease in red blood cells caused by inability to absorb vitamin B-12

WHY THE AUTO IMMUNE DISEASES OCCUR

In medical science it does not have any specific cause why it occurs. But there certain factors that may responsible for developing auto immune diseases.

Many clinical surveys say that the environmental factor plays a major role in developing various auto immune diseases. Now a days our environment has changed a lot. Everywhere there is pollution. The airs, water, foods all are polluted. 50 years ago there were not so many types of auto immune diseases. The atmosphere was not so polluted like present age. During those period peoples were taking healthy foods not so  much adulterated foods. The air was clean not so much polluted like present day. So as the science and technology develops side by side brings lots of negative things. The pollution level rises. The ozone level is gradually decreasing in the air. The water level is gradually decreasing. There has been a lot of changes in the atmosphere in compare to the past few decades years back. Not only in the external world the changes is marked inside us. Our stress level has increased a lot. Our though process has changed a lot. Our work style has changed a lot. Our mind setup has changes a lot. Our perception towards a subject has been changed a lot. The positiveness and positive attitude has been decreased a lot. Our anxiety, fear, stress, level has increased in compare to past age. The attitude of a person has changed. Anger, irritability, greedy, intolerance attitude has been increased. Physical activities have reduced a lot. 

In fact the whole things have been changed from external world to our internal world drastically in the course of time. But our body, our organs, our cells are same as millions year back, working the same function like before. The changing of environment, the changing of emotional level, the changing of psychological level putting tremendous negative impact on our body, in our cells specifically in our immune endocrine system. So our innocent simple reacting immune system has been disturbed and acting abnormally as a result so many auto immune diseases are creating and destroying the human society. This is the real threat now in the medical science to cure the auto immune disease as because there is no treatment has been discovered to cure a auto immune disease except managing the symptoms for temporarily basis.

Scope of Homeopathy Treatment-

In this regards homeopathy has a prospective role of treatment in the auto immune disease as because homeopathy treatment is not only based on the disease symptoms alone but the person’s psychological and emotional symptoms also taken care which are otherwise known as the root trigger factors for the development of the disease. Every individual has its own trigger factors either in his psychological level or emotional level or physical level or genetic level.

Homeopathy treatment finds the thread of root cause of the triggers factors and treat accordingly, thus helps to bring back the equilibrium of the body’s immune system in a natural way to normal state thus may help to cure the auto immune diseases. For example a person of having psychological trauma in past life like death of any of his/her nearest or dearest one and that makes him/her to a depressive state and in the course of time develops irritability and after a few years develops psoriasis. So a homeopath takes the detail symptoms not only about the psoriasis symptoms of the person but his/her past life event of any psychological trauma and his/her present irritability nature and basing on all those symptoms the medicine is choose and if given can able to cure the disease. So there are not same set of medicines for a particular disease which can be repeated for every patient.

But at the same time the general management therapy whatever is required for the patient should be kept continued along with homeopathy treatment.

Autoimmune diseases are a group of illnesses where the body’s immune system turns against itself.They are similar to allergy-related conditions because in both the immune system is over-active.

Many clinical surveys say that the environmental factor plays a major role in developing various auto immune diseases. Now a days our environment has changed a lot. Everywhere there is pollution. The airs, water, foods all are polluted. 50 years ago there were not so many types of auto immune diseases. In fact the whole things have been changed from external world to our internal world drastically in the course of time. But our body, our organs, our cells are same as millions year back, working the same function like before. The changing of environment, the changing of emotional level, the changing of psychological level putting tremendous negative impact on our body, in our cells specifically in our immune endocrine system. So our innocent simple reacting immune system has been disturbed and acting abnormally as a result so many auto immune diseases are creating and destroying the human society. This is the real threat now in the medical science to cure the auto immune disease as because there is no treatment has been discovered to cure a auto immune disease except managing the symptoms for temporarily basis.

In all these conditions the body’s immune system is inappropriately activated and various organs become it’s target as if they were foreign invaders.The causes or instigating factors are unknown. Hereditary predisposition may play a role, as may some environmental factors. In considering treatment, one must first have a clear understanding of what one is treating with any modality used.  Allopathic treatments involve suppression of immunity by steroids and other invasive medications who have serious side effects and affect vital organs like liver, kidneys, brain etc.On the other hand well chosen constitutional homeopathy not only strengthens the immunity but also can reverse the autoimmune process which is seen clinically by the autoimmunity titres in the blood studies.

                                                                                                              

Homeopathy believes in restoration of homeostasis (inner balance), enabling natural reversal of the disease, resolution of inflammatory process and restoration of normal organ function in cases where the damage was not too severe, including thyroid, kidney, lung, joints, platelets (ITP cases), etc. In most cases of autoimmune disease this is my preferred modality to start with, complementing with all other modalities discussed above when necessary.

Homeopathy treatment finds the thread of root cause of the triggers factors and treat accordingly, thus helps to bring back the equilibrium of the body’s immune system in a natural way to normal state thus may help to cure the auto immune diseases.

We are presenting here two two cases of autoimmune diaseses namely Sjogrens syndrome and Ulcerative colitis with biochemical as well as clinical evidence thus proving the efficacy of homeopathic medicines over contemporary medicine.

Common Food Allergies

Homoeopathic Remedies For Some Common Food Allergies –

§  Banana – Coffee, Ignatia, Kali Phos, Nux Vomica, Rumex

§  Chicken – Bacillinum, Bryonia

§  Dal – Calcarea Carb, Lycopodium, Pulsatilla

§  Egg – Calcarea Carb, Cinchona, Colchicum, Ferrum Metallicum, Ledum, Lysinnum, Pulsatilla, Sulphur

§  Fish – Fluoric Acid, Kali Sulph

§  Gluten – Aluminum Acidicum

§  Honey – Natrum Carb, Phosphorus

§  Milk – Aethusa, Arsenic, Lac. Defloratum, Mag. Sulph, Natrum Carb, Psorinum, Tuberculinum³⁺

§  Mutton – Lysinnum, Lecithin mother tincture

§  Onions – Carcinosin, Lycopodium, Sulphur, Thuja

§  Peanuts – Molubdinum

§  Raisins – Ipecac

§  Rice – Ignatia, Kali, Natrum, Pulsatilla, Sulphur, Tellurium

§  Tomatoes – Oleander mother tincture

Sciatica and Homeopathy

Homeopathy helps you on your feet again...

Back pain or Sciatica is one of the most familiar complaints and disorder that affect 70-80% of people worldwide at some time once in their lives. It is the pain in the back that commences and continues from the hip and buttocks to all the way along the leg which comes in many forms with more or less severe lower, middle or upper to low back pain.

Common causes:
There are too many causes for common back pain, which include nerve problems, muscular tribulations, degenerative disc disease and arthritis etc. The low back pain caused due to these reasons are not as much common as other reasons and causes that produce pain in the back example, intense sporting and forceful recreational activities, heavy labor, sitting and sleeping in wrong posture for long hours or any other musculoskeletal sprain or strain. They are commonly misdiagnosed and identified as sciatica. So this is an essential challenge for a physician to differentiate between radicular and referred pain.

Keeping wallet in back pocket:
The one most universally common reason behind most men back pain is an early age habit of keeping wallet in their back pockets and sitting on it while driving, working etc for an extensive period of time which forces the body posture esp. the pelvis and spine out of position. The wallet acts like a cram under your buttock and the foremost reason of you becoming the contender of sciatica or back pain.
This is something in commending with all men and which have not been noticed or focused in our daily life. So it is wholly and seriously important for those who have long sitting sessions and hours of work, make sure that next time you sit on your seat, whether you are driving a vehicle, working in your office or attending a class or what, strictly do not forget to take your wallet out of your back pocket and put it in front shirt pocket or where else you like to keep it.
What actually happens and what are its risks?
Most guys are in habit of keeping half inch wallet in their back hip pocket that can be a bring throbbing pain for the back, waist, muscles, bones and most highly the nervous system. It creates imbalance and unlevel surface. Which the body automatically on impulse tries to correct by keeping the head positioned centrally on the pelvis which needs turning and slanting of spine tortuous. It may lead to execution of excruciating back pains and may also lead to compress sciatic nerves and self-inflicted back pain due to sciatia. This in fact is not a life-threatening to an extent can increase possibilities of having a bad back with worse back pain.

What you need to do:
This little piece of advice can do wonders for you and those ignoring may indulge and go through multiple problems in spine especially which may become misaligned. So the healthiest option is to take out the wallet from your back pocket before you sit down or make a habit of keeping your wallet to your front pocket. It is not only suggested to, not to sit on Wallet only, as it is common practice but it is recommended to keep your back pockets empty while sittiing

Homoeopathic help :

Colocynthis -
Homeopathic medicine for sciatica of left side.

Magnesia Phosphorica – Wonderful Homeopathic medicine for sciatica of right side.

GnaphaliumPolycephalum – Top grade Homeopathic medicine for sciatica with pain and numbness.

Arnica Montana, Hypericum Perforatum and Ruta Graveolens – Best Homeopathic medicines for sciatica from back injury.

Bryonia Alba – Significant Homeopathic Remedy for sciatica that worsens with walking.

Rhus Tox – Top rated Homeopathic medicine for sciatica that becomes more painful with rest.

Valeriana Officinalis – Best Homeopathic prescription for sciatica where standing increases

Rape victims and Homeopathy

Rape victims and Homeopathy

Rape is horrible. Even if the offender is given the harshest punishment under law, it does nothing to ease the chronic suffering the victim has to endure. It leaves deep scars, if left untreated amy develop into pathology, both mental and physical. The patient needs support and more importantly, unconditional love. In today's materialistic, selfish world love is a scarce commodity. Homeopathy is very useful for such victims to not to only erase the deep mental scars the act inflicts, but of doing it gently without any side effects.

Given below are some Homeopathic remedies that work wonders on victims of rape.

Aconite: This remedy must be given as soon as possible after the incident in high potency. It will ameliorate the sense of shock, the victim inevitable experiences in the immediate aftermath. Aconite may also be needed later if the patient experiences panic attacks and develops deep phobias.

Arnica: When delirious, the patient says she is well and sends the doctor away. Arnica is useful for injuries, contusions and blows suffered. It helps cure the long term trauma. The patient has a bruised sensation. Everything feels hard.

Carcinosin: The chief remedy for the ill-effects, both mental and physical, of rape. It helps dealing with emotional suppression and guilt feelings the victim may experience. Loves dancing and singing. Loves thunderstorms. Feels worse in the afternoon (1 PM to 6 PM) and at late night (2 AM to 4 AM). Especially indicated if the patient has a history (personal or in the family) of cancer and diabetes. Dark, sultry complexion with many moles.

Ignatia: This remedy helps in the immediate aftermath to deal with the grief and depression. The patient sighs and weeps. Cannot sleep. It eases the sense of frustration. Patient hates the smell of tobacco. Has a sense of internal conflict. Oversensitive and nervous. Later the remedy may be given whenever the patient feels depressed.

Natrum Mur: It helps deal with the long term grief. Patient likes to be alone. Dislikes consolation. Very sensitive. Loves salty food. Feels ravenously hungry at 10 AM and feels faint if does not eat anything. Feels hot all the time. Worse (may be a headache) in sunlight.

Opium: Victims of rape react differently to the act. Some of them go into a state of stupor. Here Opium is useful. Feels no pain. Deep sleep with heavy breathing. Sweaty skin. Placid. But has spells of delirium. Becomes talkative, gay, rash. Feels bold. Tells lies. Deceptive.

Staphysagria: This remedy helps in dealing with the sense of humiliation, deep guilt and shame that the rape victim feels. Is very sensitive to what others say about her. Helps deal with the suppressed anger. Has sudden violent outbursts of anger. Throws things away.

AUTISM AND HOMEOPATHY

AUTISM AND HOMEOPATHY

All autistic patients should be treated with homeopathy.

There are three main reasons.

First, the conventional treatment of psychiatric drugs is meant to calm the patient down, not to cure.

Second, autism is really a spectrum. It ranges from mild to severe and is caused by a variety of diseases, some neurological, some biochemical, etc. With accurate homeopathic treatment, all cases will move in the right direction. It is only a matter of how far. However, the degree of autism did not seem to correspond to the degree of the cure. In other words, mild cases may receive only partial benefit, whereas some severe cases have been greatly affected by homeopathic treatment.

The third reason for choosing homeopathy is that many of the other therapies, such as diet and nutrition, seem to work much better after homeopathic treatment. In particular, the benefits of sensory integration therapy are increased by the action of a good homeopathic remedy.

Cervical Spondylosis and Homeopathic Treatment:

Cervical Spondylosis and Homeopathic Treatment:

Neck pain is a common illness from which almost all of us suffer at least once in a lifetime. We often hear complains of neck pain from our colleagues, friends, relatives, etc. in our daily life. Neck pain has been known by a medical term “cervical spondylosis”. This mainly occurs due to the degeneration of joints in our neck. As we grow older the bones in our body starts degenerating and that’s why cervical spondylosis is common in people with over 60 years of age. Cervical spondylosis is basically a form of arthritis, but it rarely leads to disability.

Cervical spondylosis results more in women than in men. There is no specific cause of neck pain known, until now, but it occurs due to one or more disorders or diseases that exist in the structures of the neck. Though it’s hard to eliminate neck pain, homeopathy can work for you. Homeopathy has been a great way to cure cervical spondylosis as the treatment is dependent on amounts of degenerative change that took place in the bones and the disk. The recovery time depends on the extent to which your spinal cord has damaged. The homeopathic treatment is more effective in cases where the damage is mild.

Homeopathy is a symptom based treatment procedure. Some generally used homeopathic medicines for neck stiffness and pain are Guaicum, lachnanthes, and Rhus Tox.

If you’re suffering from arm numbness associated with cervical pain then Paris Quadrifolia and Kalmia latifolia works best.

To dissolve the bony outgrowths of the vertebrae, you can take Calcarea Flour. These homeopathic medicines work as wonders for cervical spondylosis

What is Homeopathy?

What is Homeopathy?

Homeopathy is a system of medical therapy that uses very small doses of medicines, or remedies. These remedies are prepared from substances found in nature. 

 The homeopathic doctor chooses the proper remedy by following a special rule of nature called theLaw of Similars. This law states "like cures like," or that a medicine can cure a sick person if it can cause similar sickness in a healthy person. For instance, if you peel an onion, your eyes burn, itch and water. You might also have a runny nose and begin to sneeze. If you had similar symptoms during a cold or allergy attack, such as a runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing, a homeopathic micro-dose of the remedy Allium cepa (red onion) would help your body heal itself.

What are Homeopathic Remedies?

Any plant, mineral or animal substance can be used as a remedy. The original substance is diluted in liquid repeatedly, and vigorously shaken with each dilution. Unusual as it sounds, these very small amounts of remedies can act very strongly when used properly. Also, because the remedies are very diluted, they are extremely safe. The clinical experience of homeopathy shows that the micro-dose is effective:.

What to expect during a visit to a homeopathic practitioner?

You will be asked to describe all your problems in detail as well as a complete description of everything that characterizes you, especially your feelings, sensations, sensitivity, psyche, and all that concerns your organism in terms of energy, sleep, appetite, digestion, etc. This thorough and initial interview requires approximately half to one hour. The better the homeopath understands the patient and his or her problems, the better they can individualize to find the specific and most similar remedy for the patient's  condition.

Which diseases can be treated with homeopathy?

This may sound strange but in homeopathy we do not treat diseases, but treat the person who is sick. Whether a person has a chronic or an acute disease, all of their symptoms, whether physical, mental or emotional form a whole representing a state of imbalance very specific to this individual. The goal of the homeopath is to recognize through the unique expression of symptoms of a patient the pattern of disturbed energy and identify among the great number of remedies available the one most homeopathic, or most similar to, the patient's disease.

What can homeopathy treat

Allergies, asthma, skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives) etc, women problems like irregular menses, infertility, white discharge, infections, polycystic ovarian syndrome etc, arthritis, urinary tract infections,hairfall, IBS, ear infections, nasal polyps, sinusitis,migraine, poor immunity,thyroid, weight gain, hypertension, diabetes etc

Homeopathic Remedies for Allergic Colds

Acute attacks of hay fever often respond to homeopathic remedies. Allergies are usually deep-seated problems, and are often best addressed with a constitutional remedy and the guidance of an experienced practitioner.

Allium cepa: Indications for this remedy include watery eyes and a clear nasal discharge that irritates the upper lip, along with sneezing and a tickling cough. The person usually is thirsty, and feels worse indoors and when rooms are warm, and better in fresh air.

Arsenicum album: A burning, watery, runny nose with a stuffy, tickling feeling during allergy attacks suggests a need for this remedy. Swelling below the eyes and a wheezy cough are common. The person may feel chilly, restless, anxious, and is often very tired.

Euphrasia: This remedy can be helpful if the eyes are swollen and irritated with acrid tears or pus. The nose also runs, but with a blander discharge. Symptoms are often worse in the daytime and worse from warmth, and the eyes may hurt from too much light. The person can also have a cough in the daytime, which improves at night.

Ferrum phosphoricum: This is a very useful remedy in the early stages of any inflammation. Taken when allergy symptoms start, it often slows or stops an episode. Symptoms include runny eyes with a burning or gritty feeling, facial flushing, watery nose, and short, hard, tickling cough.

Gelsemium: A tired, droopy feeling during allergies with a flushed and heavy-feeling face suggest a need for this remedy. A sensation of dryness or of swollen membranes may be felt inside the nose—or the nose may run with irritating watery discharge, with the person sneezing frequently. Aching in the back of the head and neck, a trembling feeling, and chills along the spine are often seen when a person needs Gelsemium.

Natrum muriaticum: Allergy attacks with sneezing, watery eyes, clear nasal discharge that resembles egg white, and a loss of taste and smell will all suggest a need for this remedy. The person may have dark circles under the eyes, be thirsty, feel withdrawn and sad, and act irritable if comforted.

Nux vomica: If the nose is alternately stuffed up (especially outdoors or at night) and running (indoors and in the daytime), this remedy may bring relief. Other symptoms include a teasing cough, a scraped or tickly feeling in the throat, and headache. A person who needs this remedy often feels impatient, irritable, and chilly.

Sabadilla: Long paroxysms of sneezing, itching in the nose with irritating runny discharge, a feeling of a lump in the throat, and watery eyes will all suggest a need for this remedy. The person may feel nervous during allergy attacks, and trying to concentrate can bring on drowsiness or headache.

Wyethia: Intolerable itching felt on the roof of the mouth and behind the nose—sometimes extending into the throat and ears—strongly suggests the use of this remedy. Everything in the person’s head feels dry and irritated, but the nose may still be runny.

The Homeopathic Treatment of Allergies

Homeopathy is highly effective in the treatment of allergies and fully capable of stimulating the organism to heal to the point of complete relief from all allergy symptoms.

Many of us have suffered from allergies at one time in our life, and usually the best treatment offered was symptomatic relief through avoidance of the allergen or through medication. Homeopathy, on the other hand, addresses the cause of the sensitivity to allergens at the deepest possible level; avoiding the allergen (the substance responsible for the allergic response) or resorting to suppression of symptoms through ongoing symptomatic treatment becomes unnecessary once this sensitivity has been eliminated.

1. The many types of allergy

There are many common substances to which people may develop an allergic response, including:

• Foods such as wheat (gluten), milk and dairy, seafood (shellfish), alcohol, soy, eggs, peanuts, and certain vegetables (tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants).
• Common environmental factors such as dust, pollen, mold, animal fur (from dogs, cats, or other pets), dust mites, and sunlight.
• Various natural or synthetic substances such as latex, nickel, pesticides, medications (penicillin, sulfa drugs, and many more), venom from relatively harmless animal stings (bees, wasps).

Symptoms of allergy manifest at the interface between the external world and internal environment: on the skin and in mucus membranes of the respiratory tract, the digestive tract, and the eyes. The inflammation that results causes the various allergy symptoms that many of us are familiar with from personal experience or through someone we know.

It should be noted that some of the above substances may cause trouble to many otherwise healthy people. If this is the case and the substance is synthetic or strongly modified from its natural form (medications, commerical wheat, genetically modified soy, etc.) then it may indeed be the substance rather than personal sensitivity that should be viewed as the true cause, and avoidance may well be the most appropriate solution in such cases.

Indeed, there are many substances encountered in modern life to which we are not physiologically adapted. These are a frequent cause of intolerancesymptoms such as mental fogginess, tiredness, poor digestion, skin rashes, and diarrhea. Intolerance should be distinguished from allergy by its lesser specificity and intensity of symptoms, and the term may also refer to certain hereditary conditions in which the body is unable to handle specific food components or environmental conditions for reasons that have nothing to do with the immune system. From the therapeutic point of view intolerance (except of the hereditary type) is approached similarly to allergy, although frequently with more emphasis on avoidance.

In addition, some forms of asthma are allergic in nature, seasonal allergies are frequently referred to as hay fever, and a skin allergy usually manifests itself as hives.

Whatever the exact terminology applied, the goal of homeopathic allergy treatment is the strengthening of the organism at its spiritual core, leading to increased resilience of the organism. A resilient person is able to withstand a wide variety of environments by responding appropriately to each situation without suffering chronic ill effects.

2. The conventional approach to allergy

The conventional approach to allergy incorporates the strategy of environmental control, whereby the patient avoids exposure to the allergen as much as possible. In contrast, from the homeopathic perspective the identity of the allergen is not nearly as important as each individual’s specific pattern of response to it, both at the physical and at the psychological level.

The former approach is effective in principle but has two limitations. First, avoiding the allergen completely may be difficult in highly sensitive individuals for whom even trace amounts of allergen produce a full-blown, or even life-threatening, allergic response.

Second, the avoidance approach doesn’t address the true cause of the allergy, which is not the allergen but the person’s sensitivity to it. Avoidance can eliminate symptoms but it doesn’t amount to true healing, at least not by the stringent homeopathic standards: health is freedom in facing external challenges with few limitations, whereas avoidance restrictsthe individual’s freedom.

There are two classes of medication generally in use for the symptomatic control of allergies: antihistamines and corticosteroids. Of these, corticosteroids are the more disruptive because they paralyze the immune system at its root, whereas antihistamines interrupt the allergic response without fundamentally altering immune function.

A second-line approach to more severe allergies is immunotherapy (‘allergy shots’), which involves regular injections of small amounts of the relevant allergen(s) over a long period (several months to several years); this leads to a gradual desensitization of the body to them. This approach happens to be based on a simplified version of the homeopathic principle calledisopathy, and because of this it does not disrupt homeopathic treatment (beyond making it difficult to determine which of the two treatments should be credited with the improvement). This approach is suitable for many, but falls short of the more global therapeutic improvement attainable through the homeopathic approach.

3. The homeopathic diagnostic approach

The homeopathic treatment of allergies begins with the physical symptoms but doesn’t end there. Important clues to the homeopathic pattern and prescription can be found in:

• life circumstances around the time of onset of the allergy symptoms;
• situations which cause an exacerbation of the allergy symptoms;
• situations which lead to a relief from allergy symptoms;
• feelings aroused by the allergy symptoms, or the person’s unique experience of the condition;
• how the allergy symptoms disrupt normal living, or what the person is thereby prevented from doing.

Again, it is important to understand that the specific allergy symptoms are not in themselves a disease but merely represent the underlying spiritual imbalance that is the root of all disease. Whether a person will develop allergies, skin problems, joint problems, or organ problems is largely dependent on hereditary factors as well as on the degree of suppression of symptoms from past medical treatment.

In the case of severe allergies and asthma it is important never to reduce or discontinue the use of medications until the allergic tendency has clearly and permanently been eliminated, and even then always in consultation with the treating physician. Likewise it is important to maintain access to emergency facilities in case of a dangerous exacerbation throughout treatment, and to continue carrying antihistamines, inhalers, an EpiPen adrenaline injector, etc. whenever away from home for use in case of a severe reaction.

4. The rationale behind the homeopathic approach to allergies

What is the advantage of comprehensive allergy treatment with homeopathy over other natural approaches?

On the one hand clean diets such as the raw food diet I discussed recently have many beneficial effects. For example, many people do better without wheat: they typically feel more clear-headed than otherwise, among other subtle benefits. So even people who do not complain of any symptoms indicative of allergy or intolerance might do well to avoid certain foods, and likewise to breath fresher air, drink cleaner water, and so on.

But eliminating the allergen should only be seen as the first step of a comprehensive treatment strategy that addresses also the person’s allergic sensitivity. This can be achieved through treatment which strengthens the overall functioning of the organism and repairs the immune system.

If dietary measures are used, they should go beyond avoidance of specific foods, aiming to heal the gut and address the excessive intestinal permeability (also known as leaky gut syndrome) that frequently underlies food-based allergies.

True healing, however, is largely independent of dietary considerations: the healthy person should not only feel extra-healthy on a perfect diet, but also remain symptom-free when consuming a somewhat imperfect diet. To begin, it helps that healthy individuals are naturally attracted to healthy foods. But living in our society involves the occasional birthday or cocktail party or movie outing, and we should not be punished for sporadic indulgence. Yet many people who base their health maintenance on dietary measures alone remain sensitive to deviations from a strict diet, and some even becomemore rather than less sensitive — and therefore more restricted — over time.

When a person can feel well only on a customized, restrictive diet this indicates an imbalance at a deeper level. This imbalance is addressable partly through lifestyle measures such as exercise and meditation; but, again, one’s health shouldn’t be highly dependent on a strict regimen of daily exercise and meditation.

The way I see it, the ultimate goal in the healing of allergic symptoms involves eliminating sensitivity while increasing freedom. This is achievable through constitutional treatment  primarily through comprehensive systems such as Chinese medicine and homeopathy.

Constitutional treatment is the long-term strengthening of the spiritual core of the organism. (See my article on length of homeopathic treatment for information on how long this might take.) Clinically it is known that such treatment tends to increase the natural resilience of the organism to environmental stressors.

We are all familiar with the image of a spiritually strong person as a Zen master who remains unperturbed when faced with interpersonal conflict or life circumstances that would overwhelm a normal being. With respect to allergies, the spiritually healthy person will prefer a allergen-free environment, but will remain healthy even when exposed to unhealthy environmental influences.

ASTHMA AND HOMEOPATHY

People suffering from asthma often have allergic tendencies; a genetic predisposition is common. Constitutional homeopathic care (with the guidance of an experienced professional) can help to improve a person’s general health on deeper levels and possibly reduce the tendency toward asthma. Correctly-chosen remedies can help reduce distress during asthma attacks; however, emergency medical care must be sought in any serious attack. If a person has great difficulty breathing, looks very pale, has bluish lips, or seems to be very weak or in danger of losing consciousness, seek a doctor’s help immediately.

Arsenicum album: A person needing this remedy can feel exhausted, yet be very restless and anxious. Breathing problems tend to be worse while lying down, better when sitting up, and may begin, or be the most intense, between midnight and two a.m. Dry wheezing may progress to a cough that brings up frothy whitish fluid. The person can be thirsty, taking frequent tiny sips. General chilliness is usually seen, with burning pains in the chest and heat in the head. Warmth often brings improvement.

Carbo vegetabilis: This remedy may be indicated when a person feels weak or faint with a hollow sensation in the chest. Coughing jags can lead to gagging. The person may be very cold (especially hands and feet), yet feel a need for moving air, wanting to sit beside a fan or open window. Gas and digestive upset are also likely, and sitting up and burping offers some relief. Feeling worse in the evening, and worse from talking, eating, or lying down are other indications for this remedy.

Chamomilla: Asthma with a dry, hard, irritating cough that starts after being exposed to moving air, or after becoming overexcited and angry, may be helped with this remedy. The cough is often worse around nine p.m., and may continue into the night. The person seems hypersensitive and may be extremely irritable and agitated. (Children may even shriek and hit, though they often calm down if someone carries them.)

Ipecacuanha: Coughing spasms that lead to retching or vomiting strongly indicate this remedy. Wheezing can come on suddenly with a feeling of suffocation and heaviness in the chest. Mucus collects in breathing tubes, but the person has difficulty coughing much out. The person may sweat a lot and feel clammy or nauseous, be worse from motion, and sometimes worse from warmth.

Natrum sulphuricum: This remedy is sometimes indicated when asthma attacks are brought on by exposure to mold and dampness. The person may hold the chest while coughing, because it feels so weak. Wheezing and breathing difficulties are aggravated by exertion, and episodes tend to be worse in the very early morning.

Nux vomica: Indications for this remedy include a tense, constricted feeling in the chest during asthma attacks, with pressure in the stomach. Problems are often worse in the morning. Overindulgence in stimulants, alcohol, sweets, or strong spicy food can bring on or aggravate an episode. Both physical effort and mental exertion can make things worse, and warmth and sleep often bring relief. A person needing this remedy is typically very irritable and impatient, with a general feeling of chilliness.

Pulsatilla: Wheezing that starts when a person gets too warm (especially in a stuffy room), or after eating rich food, can indicate this remedy. Coughing brings up yellow-colored mucus, with gagging and choking. Tightness in the chest tends to be worse in the evening and at night, and is relieved by cool fresh air. A person who needs this remedy is likely to be changeable and emotional, wanting a lot of attention and comforting. (Pulsatilla is often useful in children’s illnesses.)

Spongia tosta: A hard or “barking” cough during an asthma attack is a strong indication for this remedy. Breathing can be labored, with a sawing sound, and not much mucus is produced. The person may feel best when sitting up and tilting the head back, or when leaning forward. Warm drinks may be helpful. The problems often start while the person is asleep (typically before midnight). Spongia is often used in croup, as well.

Antimonium Tartaricum 

This is a good asthma remedy for children and the elderly particularly when the asthma has been caused by an infection such as bronchitis or obstructive pulmonary disease. The cough will sound wet and there will be coarse rattling in the chest on both inspiration and expiration. The patient will be worse lying down and at night generally.They may be irritable and want to be left alone.

 

Apis Mellifica 

Use Apis for an asthma attack in an acute allergic reaction. Breath feels tight and painful with dry wheezing. The patient will feel better in open air and much worse for heat or hot drinks.

 

Carbo Vegetalis 

Severe acute attacks of wheezing with significant belching and flatus. patient feel very weak and may collapse.

 

Arsenicum Album 

Short, dry asthmatic cough with a wheeze.

 

Phosphorus 

use this medicine when every infection goes to the chest with a wheeze and cough. Worse in the morning, at twilight and especially at 10pm or with sudden changes in temperature. Better for lying on the right side.

 

Pulsatilla 

This patient has both forms of asthma: wet acute infections with greeny discharges and also allergic asthma (often hayfever related). In both cases the patient must sit up during the asthma crisis and is better for fresh air. Even fanning may help them feel better. 

 

Natrum Sulph 

Asthma worse in damp conditions often with morning diarrohea.

Like eczema, asthma is an inflammatory disease. In asthma the airways become constricted by swelling, making breathing difficult. In developed countries 1 in 4 children have asthma as opposed to 1 in 18 people 40 years ago. Corticosteroids such as Flixotide and Pulmicort in the form of puffers are widely used to treat asthma but these pharmaceutical drugs do nothing to change the progression of the disease. A broader, nutritional and environmental approach is required, and when combining this approach with Homeopathy, significant improvements or cures can be achieved. 

Homeopathic medicines can be a viable alternative to steroid medications. They can be given as an acute treatment in place of puffers but more importantly, Homeopathic professional treatment working with the whole person can cure asthma entirely. 

Homeopathy and Depression

Homeopathy and Depression           Dr Samir Chaukkar MD(Hom)

 

Depression is one of the most common health conditions in the world. Depression isn't a weakness, nor is it something that you can simply "snap out of." Depression, formally called major depression, major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is a medical illness that involves the mind and body. It affects how you think and behave and can cause a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may not be able to go about your usual daily activities, and depression may make you feel as if life just isn't worth living anymore.

Effective diagnosis and treatment can help reduce even severe depression symptoms. And with effective treatment, most people with depression feel better, often within weeks, and can return to the daily activities they previously enjoyed.

Causes of Depression

Depression has no single cause; often, it results from a combination of things. You may have no idea why depression has struck you.

Whatever its cause, depression is not just a state of mind. It is related to physical changes in the brain, and connected to an imbalance of a type of chemical that carries signals in your brain and nerves. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters.

Some of the more common factors involved in depression are:

·         Family history. Genetics play an important part in depression. It can run in families for generations.

·         Trauma and stress. Things like financial problems, the breakup of a relationship, or the death of a loved one can bring on depression. You can become depressed after changes in your life, like starting a new job, graduating from school, or getting married.

·         Pessimistic personality. People who have low self-esteem and a negative outlook are at higher risk of becoming depressed. These traits may actually be caused by low-level depression (called dysthymia).

·         Physical conditions. Serious medical conditions like heart disease, cancer, and HIV can contribute to depression, partly because of the physical weakness and stress they bring on. Depression can make medical conditions worse, since it weakens the immune system and can make pain harder to bear. In some cases, depression can be caused by medications used to treat medical conditions.

·         Other psychological disorders. Anxiety disorders, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and (especially) substance abuse often appear along with depression.

 SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION

·     Depression of mood is the primary symptom. There may be a diurnal variation of mood, depression being most distressing early in the morning or at the end of the day.

·     Loss of pleasure in life (anhedonia)

·     Loss of interest in oneself and others

·     Low self esteem

·     Self blame

·     Hopelessness

·     Suicidal thinking

·     Feeling of guilt and worthlessness

·     Sleep disturbance (initial insomnia, early morning wakening or hypersomnia)

·     Poor concentration

·     Fatigue

·     Headache and other pains

·     Anorexia (loss of appetite)

·     Weight changes

·     Constipation

·     Reduced libido

How to manage Depression

Try to identify the root cause of your depression. Causes of depression can be psychological, emotional, physical or spiritual. The homeopathic treatments you use will vary depending on the cause, so it is necessary to pinpoint where your depression stems from before you can treat it.

When did your depression begin, and what was going on in your life at that time? This is one of the first questions your homeopath will ask when you’re seeking help for depression.

The answers are as diverse and colourful as the patients themselves. Perhaps you have felt depressed all your life due to hereditary factors. Maybe it began after a major and traumatic event in your life, such as divorce, abuse, death of a loved one, or loss of employment. Or possibly you became depressed as a result of hormonal imbalance, which is common during puberty, after childbirth and during menopause. The answer to the origins of your depression provides an important clue to finding your individual homeopathic remedy. At the same time, regardless of the triggering event of your depression, homeopathy can help you get unblocked, turn the corner, and set you on the path to recovery.

Each individual suffering from depression expresses it quite differently; with different feelings, behaviours and symptoms. As a result, 10 people diagnosed with depression will probably receive 10 different homeopathic remedies.

For example, a patient who had been depressed his entire life, who had feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and had difficulties expressing his feelings, made great progress with the remedy Natrum Muriaticum. While another patient suffering with life-long depression, who was a perfectionist, was unable to tolerate mediocrity, had rage and suicidal thoughts, made great improvement with the remedy Aurum Metallicum. Two recent cases of depression involving hormonal imbalance received the remedies Lilium Tigrinum and Sepia. In another case, the remedy Tuberculinum helped the recovery of a patient who became severely depressed after separating from her husband. And Arsenicum Album created a spark of optimism for a young woman who had been depressed since a childhood occurrence of sexual abuse.

Homeopathy offers very good treatment possibilities for depression with good results. There are large number of medicines which can be used and the selection of medicine depends not just on the symptoms but also on the cause. Depression is a manifestation of the disorder and to treat the manifestation it is necessary to find the cause. The success of treatment in such cases often depends on the ability of a homeopath to find the cause.  The selection of medicine depends a lot on it.

There are various triggers or stressors which lead to depression and they are well represented in the complete repertory as Ailments from

Ailments from disappointment in love- Nat mur, Ignatia

Ailments from ambition deceived- Nux vom

Ailments from bad news- Gelsemium

Ailments from business failure- Ambra Grisea

Ailments from death of child- Ignatia

Ailments from domination by others- Lycopodium

Ailments from friendship deceived- Magnesium

Ailments from honor wounded- Staphysagria

Ailments from reputation loss of- Aurum met

Ailments from reversal of fortune- Lachesis

And many more……..

After taking the indicated homeopathic remedy, patients will start noticing changes within a few hours to several days. Most people experience increased energy and motivation. This becomes the catalyst for positive changes in their lives. People adopt a more positive outlook on life. Depressed patients once again begin engaging in their favourite activities. Since homeopathy treats the person and not the disease, the process of cure will take the same path regardless of your initial complaint.
The length of time needed to cure depression (or any disease) depends on the severity and the length of time you’ve had it. So it is not realistic to assess how long treatment should take until your response to the remedies becomes apparent over a period of time. While long-standing conditions may take months or years to heal, there will be improvement quite soon.

Not only can the correct homeopathic remedy restore your health, but prolonged homeopathic treatment can even eliminate predisposition to certain diseases. If eliminating the root cause of your depression is your goal, then homeopathy is the medicine of choice.

Homeopathic Remedies for Depression

Arsenicum album: Anxious, insecure, and perfectionistic people who need this remedy may set high standards for themselves and others and become depressed if their expectations are not met. Worry about material security sometimes borders on despair. When feeling ill, these people can be demanding and dependent, even suspicious of others, fearing their condition could be serious.

Aurum metallicum: This remedy can be helpful to serious people, strongly focused on work and achievement, who become depressed if they feel they have failed in some way. Discouragement, self-reproach, humiliation, and anger can lead to feelings of emptiness and worthlessness. The person may feel worse at night, with nightmares or insomnia.

Calcarea carbonica: A dependable, industrious person who becomes overwhelmed from too much worry, work, or physical illness may benefit from this remedy. Anxiety, fatigue, confusion, discouragement, self-pity, and a dread of disaster may develop. A person who needs this remedy often feels chilly and sluggish and easily tires on exertion.

Causticum: A person who feels depressed because of grief and loss (either recent or over time) may benefit from this remedy. Frequent crying or a feeling of mental dullness and forgetfulness (with anxious checking to see if the door is locked, if the stove is off, etc.) are other indications. People who need this remedy are often deeply sympathetic toward others and, having a strong sense of justice, can be deeply discouraged or angry about the world.

Cimicifuga: A person who needs this remedy can be energetic and talkative when feeling well, but upset and gloomy when depressed—with exaggerated fears (of insanity, of being attacked, of disaster). Painful menstrual periods and headaches that involve the neck are often seen when this remedy is needed.

Ignatia amara: Sensitive people who suffer grief or disappointment and try to keep the hurt inside may benefit from this remedy. Wanting not to cry or appear too vulnerable to others, they may seem guarded, defensive, and moody. They may also burst out laughing, or into tears, for no apparent reason. A feeling of a lump in the throat and heaviness in the chest with frequent sighing or yawning are strong indications for Ignatia. Insomnia (or excessive sleeping), headaches, and cramping pains in the abdomen and back are also often seen.

Kali phosphoricum: If a person feels depressed after working too hard, being physically ill, or going through prolonged emotional stress or excitement, this remedy can be helpful. Exhausted, nervous, and jumpy, they may have difficulty working or concentrating—and become discouraged and lose confidence. Headaches from mental effort, easy perspiration, sensitivity to cold, anemia, insomnia, and indigestion are often seen when this remedy is needed.

Natrum carbonicum: Individuals who need this remedy are usually mild, gentle, and selfless—making an effort to be cheerful and helpful, and avoiding conflict whenever possible. After being hurt or disappointed, they can become depressed, but keep their feelings to themselves. Even when feeling lonely, they withdraw to rest or listen to sad music, which can isolate them even more. Nervous and physically sensitive (to sun, to weather changes, and to many foods, especially milk), they may also get depressed when feeling weak or ill.

Natrum muriaticum: People who need this remedy seem reserved, responsible, and private—yet have strong inner feelings (grief, romantic attachment, anger, or fear of misfortune) that they rarely show. Even though they want other people to feel for them, they can act affronted or angry if someone tries to console them, and need to be alone to cry. Anxiety, brooding about past grievances, migraines, back pain, and insomnia can also be experienced when the person is depressed. A craving for salt and tiredness from sun exposure are other indications for this remedy.

Pulsatilla: People who needs this remedy have a childlike softness and sensitivity—and can also be whiny, jealous, and moody. When depressed, they are sad and tearful, wanting a lot of attention and comforting. Crying, fresh air, and gentle exercise usually improve their mood. Getting too warm or being in a stuffy room can increase anxiety. Depression around the time of hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual periods, or menopause) can often be helped with Pulsatilla.

Sepia: People who feel weary, irritable, and indifferent to family members, and worn out by the demands of everyday life may respond to this remedy. They want to be left alone and may respond in an angry or cutting way if anyone bothers them. They often feel better from crying, but would rather have others keep their distance and not try to console them or cheer them up. Menstrual problems, a sagging feeling in internal organs, sluggish digestion, and improvement from vigorous exercise are other indications for this remedy.

Staphysagria: Quiet, sensitive, emotional people who have difficulty standing up for themselves may benefit from this remedy. Hurt feelings, shame, resentment, and suppressed emotions can lead them to depression. If under too much pressure, they can sometimes lose their natural inhibition and fly into rages or throw things. A person who needs this remedy may also have insomnia (feeling sleepy all day, but unable to sleep at night), toothaches, headaches, stomachaches, or bladder infections that are stress-related.

Flower remedies are useful in dealing with a number of conditions often associated with mild depression.

Agrimony is recommended if you tend to maintain a smiling appearance while suffering inner anguish and despair.

Centaury is helpful for depression accompanied by feelings of intimidation.

Cherry Plum relieves feelings of fearfulness, whether of things real or imagined.

Gorse may be chosen for a sense of hopelessness

Honey- suckle for those whose thoughts dwell on happier times past

Mustard is the remedy for sadness and feelings of ineffectuality

Rescue Remedy is the first choice to ease acute anxiety.

Sweet chestnut for bleak despair

Walnut is useful for depression that results from difficulty in adjusting to change.

Wild Rose is more beneficial for people who have lost interest in life, who have become apathetic and have stopped caring about anything-something many mildly depressed people experience.

Willow for depression caused by resentment

A person going through a period of mild sadness or depression may find relief through homeopathy. The guidance of an experienced homeopath is often valuable, to choose a remedy that fits the situation best.