How to treat a sore throat with homeopathy
It's that time of year again - sore throats, runny noses, low grade fevers all start to rear their ugly heads as the autumn temperatures kick in. This of course means it is time for us to pull out our acute homeopathy kits* or to book an appointment with a registered homeopath if you need a little extra support.
There is some discussion amongst homeopaths about whether it is advisable to treat colds, coughs, sore throats etc - many do, but others see colds as beneficial in that the body is eliminating toxins and this elimination could be a positive for the patient. Better out than in as a good friend of mine always says!
In my experience my patients know best - you will know what is the best course of action for you depending on your symptoms and how you are coping with everyday life. But it is worth remembering, if you get colds and sore throats frequently it is a safe bet that you need some sort of support and help from a professional homeopath.
Often a cold or sore throat is nature's way of telling you to have a little time out, lie down with a hot water bottle and take it easy. Plenty of fluids and eat soft, easy to swallow foods.
I also encourage my clients to initially treat themselves, if they feel that is best for them.
Sore throats may often kick off your cold symptoms or may be caused by an infection. Homeopathic remedies used at the beginning of a sore throat may prevent symptoms from developing further.
So here are some pointers about which of the most common remedies to consider depending on your particular symptoms:
Aconite 30c: if a sore throat flares up (often after exposure to dry, cold weather) and you feel extremely thirsty for cold water; Aconite is the most effective remedy in the early stages of any cold.
Belladonna 30c: if your throat is dry and bright red, burning or even throbbing; you have to swallow all the time even though it hurts; your face could be red and hot.
Apis 30c: does your throat sting, looks pink-red, shiny, tonsils look or feel swollen and all your symptoms are soothed by cold drinks?
Phytolacca 30c: throat looks dark red, your glands in the neck and lower jaw are swollen, the pain travels to the ears when you swallow; even water is difficult to swallow; neck muscles might feel stiff.
Hepar Sulph 30c: sharp, stinging pains - like you have a fish bone' or a crumb' stuck in your throat; extreme pain when you swallow; sensitive to drafts - even in the next room!
Gelsemium 30c: sore throat comes on slowly in humid weather; you have a heavy head; neck and shoulders are sore; aching back; shivers up and down your spine; not very thirsty.
As far as potency (strength) is concerned - the kits contain 30c ; don't be frightened of repeating the remedy but do stop once symptoms start to improve. Also, if your symptoms change, then don't be scared of changing the remedy as well.
Remember help is at hand - for an appointment contact me here. If symptoms worsen, do seek advice.
* Homeopathy kits are available from Helios homeopathic pharmacy and Ainsworths