The Top Homeopathic Keynotes of Fever

A few weeks ago, we blogged about the “modalities” of joint pain; the concept of a modality being something that makes a person feel better or worse. Many professional homeopaths start with modalities to guide their remedy selection, but others start with something homeopaths call “keynotes”. Keynotes differ from “modalities” in that they represent “key” symptoms associated with a homeopathic remedy. Some homeopaths consider “keynotes” to be “strange, rare and peculiar symptoms that point to a specific remedy”. Some keynotes, however, are quite broad and can point to several remedies. Paul Herscu, ND writes about this in more detail in his article “A Closer Look at Keynotes”.

1-800 Homeopathy incorporates keynotes and modalities in our product descriptions to help guide your selection. In general, you can start with more common keynotes, and narrow your selection by getting more specific. To illustrate this let’s take a closer look at the top homeopathic keynotes of fever.

FEVER

When treating colds, coughs and flu with homeopathy, one of the major symptoms to pick up on is “fever”. But in classical homeopathy, the search for a remedy does not stop there. The symptom of fever branches into smaller categories, or “keynotes” as we referenced before. Common keynotes to look for with Fever are:

Sudden Onset – Did the fever come on quickly?

Gradual Onset – Did the fever come on Gradually?

Body Aches or Weakness

When deciding which “branch” to follow consider the most prominent keynote. A person may have body aches, but the most prominent thing about the fever is that it came on suddenly. Alternatively, the fever may have come on suddenly, but that was a day or more ago, and now the predominant keynote is “body aches” or “weakness”. Here’s more detail on each of these branches:

Sudden Onset
- First Response – Aconite
- with Flushed Face – Belladonna

Gradual Onset
- First Response – Ferrum phos

Body Aches, Weakness
- with Heaviness and dull mind – Gelsemium
- with Chills, shivering – Eupatorium
- with Grumpy disposition – Bryonia
- thirstless – Pulsatilla
- Thirsty
     Vomits soon after drinking cold – Phosphorus
     Small sips – Arsenicum alb

It's important to remember, that even though you may identify a keynote to guide you to a remedy selection, it's just as important to consider an individual's "totality of symptoms" and find a best match with those of the homeopathic remedy.

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

The keynotes of backache: How to relieve back pain with homeopathy

 The big story today is Winter Storm Juno.  While many on the east coast and parts of New England have been spared the full brunt of the blizzard, others in Massachusettes and Rhode Island will be digging out of a nasty mess.  Regardless of where you are, it's an ideal time to discuss the keynotes of backaches, and how to relieve back pain with homeopathy.  While slipping on the ice, or improper shovelling techniques can certainly lead to back pain, the causes are numerous, and the specific symptoms come in many shapes and sizes.  According to Web MD, back pain is a symptom, not a disease and according to Chiropractic Economics Magazine, it's the single leading cause of disability in the world.  Here's a closer look at common "keynotes" for back pain symptoms and the homeopathic remedies that can help relieve back pain.

 First Response:

Arnica montana: Arnica is the #1 First Aid homeopathic remedy, and the go to item for aches and pains, backache included.  Arnica can safely speed healing and reduce symptoms of trauma, bruising and swelling due to diverse injuries: blows, falls, sprains, strains, twists and turns included. Its healing benefits expected injuries as well, such as dental work, childbirth, etc.  A dose before you shovel certainly cannot hurt.  FYI: A dose of aspirin before you exert yourself is not recommended as it can hide the pain that you need to listen to in order to stop when your back says stop.
 

Back feels stiff:

Cold air triggers pain - Aconite - An important keynote for Aconite is "Sudden Onset."  Boericke also writes that Aconite's "complaints and tension" are triggered by "dry, cold weather, and draft of cold air."  Think of Aconite when "back feels numb, with a crawling, tingling sensation, as if bruised, and when stiffness extends to the nape of the neck."

Worse with motion - Bryonia is nick-named the "Grumpy Bear" remedy because it applies best when stress or illness sets off a grumpy irritability that refuses comfort and does not want to be spoken to, bothered or moved in any way.  Its 'keynote' symptom 'pain worse from slightest movement' applies to its back strain stitching pains which mostly affect the lower back and want pressure but not movement; an ice pack is often welcome, too.

Better from motion - Rhus tox specializes in strain or injury, stiff necks, lower back pain, minor arthritic irritations, etc., that feel worse on first motion but then enjoy a gentle walk or stretch. They also like lying on a hard surface or bending backwards. Other symptoms and characteristics that indicate Rhus include: a desire for fresh, but not cold, air, a worsening of symptoms at night and with cold damp weather (storm predictors), a frequent desire to stretch and sleep disturbed by dreams of exertion.

Back Pain from injuries:

with bruising and soreness - Arnica:

with shooting, radiating pain - Hypericum:  Too painful is Hypericum's trademark. It is the first aid remedy for pain that just feels too painful, like when the ice lets you land on the concrete you've already shoveled and your coccyx or spine will not forgive you. Instead it sends sharp, shooting, tearing pain that will not let you go. If it hasn't forgiven you since that snow storm a few years ago, you might find a companion in Hypericum. 

with minor swelling: Ferrum phos: Between the fact that it is made from a mineral compound which helps the body build strong blood cells and that its most prominent symptom is a 'lack of notable symptoms', this cell salt is a very helpful companion. Individual complains of "Crick in back which may be accompanied by a stiff neck, and minor rheumatic pain in shoulder.  Palms are hot, and hands are swollen and painful."

from strains and sprains: Ruta grav:The sprain expert, Ruta, helps backs that only enjoy movement if the strain is pretty mild. It's expertise is back pain where weakness or strained ligaments cause a bruised aching pain "as if beaten." Turning, bending and stepping down hard are not welcome, but lying on the back can feel best.

Back Pain and muscle cramps:

Mag phos: The #1 remedy indicated for "cramps and muscle tension".  Whether injury leads to muscle tension and tension to cramps and radiating shooting stabbing pains or the injury is to the muscle itself and causes those woes, this cell salt can be a great reliever and calmer downer. If the best relief is applied heat, that's Mag phos.

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

Two new ways to calm a fussy baby ☺

We love helping fussy babies drop the fussiness and have more fun. To that end, we are helping Hyland's launch two exciting new safe, natural, homeopathic products that specialize in calming the symptoms that make babies fussy. Designed to help restless, achy, fussy babies find the comfort and the zzzz's they need, these soothing formulas from Hyland's help calm symptoms resulting from life's early stresses.  Both formulas are made with soft, no fuss, lactose tablets that dissolve almost instantly in baby's mouth and with no artificial dyes or nerve numbing medications to worry the parents.  Nature's calming powers are hard at work to help fussy babies become happy babies.

Hyland's Baby Calming Tablets

Babies aren't as much fun when they are fussy. But irritability is a natural response to being in a totally new world with weird noises, bright lights, new teeth and diaper rash. Couple that with occasional sleeplessness, and you’ve got an irritable little person who needs natural calming medicine to settle his or her system. Baby Calming Tablets are the go-to, safe and effective solution that Moms and Dads depend on, day and night. It’s formulated for newborns and toddlers alike. Go ahead – bring on the calm!

Homeopathic Ingredients:

Chamomilla 6X HPUS- occasional sleeplessness, fussiness, and agitation
Coffea Cruda 6X HPUS- irritability
Ignatia Amara 6X HPUS- restless sleep
Lycopodium 30X HPUS- unpredictable, irregular sleep
Natrum Muriaticum 6X HPUS- crying, irritability
Platinum Metallicum 30X HPUS- causeless crying, waking at night
Pulsatilla 6X HPUS- cries easily, inconsolable
Stramonium 6X HPUS- inconsolable, restless sleep
Sulphur 12X HPUS- crying, restlessness, irritability

Hyland’s Baby Nighttime Teething Tablets

Imagine coping with the symptoms of teeth cutting through your gums while you’re trying to sleep. Not a likely match, right? Hyland's new baby product, Baby Nighttime Teething Tablets, reduces that terrible pain and redness caused by teething, while providing calming, natural medicine that helps babies sleep. It’s the perfect complement to America’s #1 Teething Tablet by Hyland’s. Backed by 85 years of smiling babies, this new nighttime formula is specially formulated to deliver sweet dreams.

Homeopathic Ingredients:

Calcarea Phosphorica 6X HPUS Teething, dentition
Chamomilla 6X HPUS Irritability
Coffea Cruda 6X HPUS Occasional sleeplessness
Belladonna 12X HPUS (0.0000000000003% alkaloids, calculated) Redness and teething discomfort
Magnesia Phosphorica 6X HPUS Toothache, restless sleep
Silicea 12X HPUS Toothache at night, occasional sleeplessness
Rheum 6X HPUS Teething, disturbed sleep

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

*Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

Types of Coughs & matching homeopathic remedies

Let's face it, when most people have a cough, they think of it as one symptom, and usually seek out a "cough" medicine that might be any cold medicine that lists "cough" as a symptom.  By contrast, homeopathy is "individualized medicine" with potentially unique approaches for individuals with different types of coughs.  For example, a cough might be dry, wet, rattling, spasmodic, barking and even lingering.  If you're not sure what the difference is between a dry, wet or barking cough, Medline has a nice article explaining different types of coughs here.  Web MD also has a short, informative video titled "Types of Coughs".  When you know the type of cough you have, it can help you match your symptoms with the best individualized homeopathic medicine.  Here are some prominent types of coughs, and the homeopathic remedies that match up with them.  Be sure to read more about each remedy to see if it fits with your own full range of symptoms.

 Dry Cough:

with painful hacking - Bryonia
Dry at night, yellow, loose and suffocating in the morning - Hepar sulph calc
Dry at night, especially kids - Chamomilla

Cough with Shortness of Breath

Tickling, Starts Suddenly - Aconite
Racking, sometimes harsh - Phosphorus
Dry, Hawking yellow ropey phlegm - Hydrastis
Feeling of Oppression in Chest - Gelsemium

Wet, Loose, Rattling Cough:

Rattling Cough with mucus on chest - Antimonium tart.
Profuse mucus - Euphrasia
Thick, Ropey, Sticky Phlegm - Kali bich.

Spasmodic Cough:

Dry hacking - Ignatia
Hollow, dry - Nux vomica
Wheezing: Arsenicum album.
Chest aches, worse at night - Drosera.
Relentless, Triggers wretching - Ipecac

Lingering, Persistent Cough:

Worse with movement - Bryonia
Clogged Sinus - Kali bich
Hoarseness - Hepar sulph calc
Soreness in Chest - Causticum
Tickling, starts suddenly - Aconite

Barking Cough

Spongia tosta

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

Homeopathic cell salt benefits for restoring balance after the winter thaw.

Based on Dr. Scheussler’s ‘Biochemic Theory’, the cell salts are derived from the twelve inorganic minerals he deemed essential to keeping us healthy. He found that mineral imbalances were closely related to disease and yet supplements were often ineffective. Yet he observed that when prepared homeopathically, the cell salts could help restore balance in cases of both excess and deficiency.  In this week's blog we're highlighting a handful of cell salts that may be particularly useful this time of year for their cleansing and restorative qualities.

Calcarea sulph - The Skin & Sinus Cell Salt
When Scheussler determined that calcium sulphate is a vital part of our cleansing systems, he made this cell salt remedy and guided us to use it to help the body mend slow-healing wounds, skin disorders, pimples, sore throats and other conditions which tend to suppurate– form yellow pus. It’s gentle support helps to soothe cold and allergy symptoms if thick yellow mucus causes eye irritation, runny noses and nasal blockage. It is most suited to allergic individuals who enjoy walking in the open air. Calc sulph’s symptoms are aggravated by heat and stuffy rooms. T. F. Allen says Calc sulph applies best to those who, “desire to weep and to be miserable, alone, and unhappy.”

Kali sulph The Restorative Cell Salts
According to his Biochemic Theory, Scheussler found that potassium sulphate aids the transfer of oxygen and is important to our skin, mucus membranes and respiratory systems. After working with and proving its remedy, he and other homeopaths credit it for cleansing conditions with yellow mucus or discharge including: symptoms of colds, croupy coughs, sinus or ear congestions, vaginal irritation or diarrhea. Its skin symptoms have a yellowishness as well: yellow flaky dandruff, skin eruptions or itchy rashes. Other symptoms that identify Kali sulph include a yellowish coating on the tongue, sensitivity to heat, shifting minor joint pains, minor wheezy bronchial irritation, and heavy fatigue with a boxed-in feeling. Today, potassium sulphate supplements (not cell salts) are approved for use on low potassium levels.

Natrum sulph The Cleansing Cell Salt
Scheussler observed a tie between sodium sulphate and our digestive organs, respiratory systems and other tissues. Thus, he found its cell salt applies to a range of physical and emotional symptoms, esp. if complaints are aggravated by cold wet weather or damp places. Best known for its digestive support, Nat sulph relieves diverse symptoms of nausea, sick headache, sour vomiting, heartburn, bitter belching, hiccups, indigestion, painful pale diarrhea and a frequent need to urinate. For cold and congestive symptoms, it applies to profuse yellow mucus, rattling cough and acute humid wheezing. Following a medical evaluation, Nat sulph can be beneficial when emotional changes, confusion or bursting headaches follow physical trauma. Other Nat sulph symptoms include: minor joint or back pain, esp. low back pains that extend downward, periodic sadness, a brownish tongue coating and a craving for fresh warm, dry air.

Silica The Grit Cell Salt
Silicon dioxide? It is actually quartz and is just as important to our skin, nails and structural make up as it is for plant stems and trees to stand upright. On studying the cell salt Silica, Scheussler found it helps the body expel or root out congestions and irritants, especially in weakened tissues or individuals. In skin applications, Silica helps the body eliminate splinters, acne, eruptions, corns and fungus issues such as athlete’s foot. For other organs, Silica helps efforts to cleanse sore throats, mature coughs, sinus and ear congestion as well as constipation and diarrhea. Other diverse symptoms that indicate its use include: pale skin, nervous irritability, timidity, fatigue, a lack of vital heat; weakness in ankles, skin, hair and nails; a tendency to feel better with warmth and much worse in a cold draft. 

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

What's the #1 Homeopathic Remedy for Joint Pain and Stiffness?

If you were thinking Arnica montana/a>, you would be close, but not correct!  While Arnica is considered the number one homeopathic remedy for pain, it's primary keynotes are "muscle soreness" and "over-exertion".  Another answer we saw a few times when we posted this question on our facebook page was Ruta grav, but this homeopathic remedy is more closely aligned with joint "injuries".  Rhus tox, on the other hand, is well known homeopathic pain remedy with major symptoms that involve "joint pain" and "stiffness".   Rhus tox can be indicated when pain gets worse in cold, rainy weather, or better from warm, dry weather. 

Rhus Tox - Quick Overview

Stiff joints, backs and sciatic pains which need gentle motion can depend on this classic homeopathic remedy’s safe healing benefits. It has a special affinity for easing a variety of inflammations including blistering itchy rashes, hives, eye inflammations, cold sores, raw sore throats and colds. Restless worried nerves, headaches and nervous fatigue can find it soothing as well. Rhus tox applies best when symptoms improve with heat and worsen at night and in damp cold weather. 

Here's a more detailed symptom picture to help you pinpoint if rhus tox is the right homeopathic remedy for you.

Rhus tox ranks among the best homeopathic remedies for easing stiff joints with tearing pains, swelling, redness, sprains, etc.. It earned the title “Rusty Gate Remedy” by relieving joint and back pains that hurt on initial movement but improve after limbering up– just like an old gate that squeaks at first but quiets down after a bit. Also like the rusty gate, these joints do not like cold damp weather– they can be great storm predictors. For back relief, Rhus specializes in strain or injury, stiff necks, lower back pain, lumbago, even sciatica, especially if they feel better lying on a hard surface, walking or bending backwards. Similar joint pain shows up in Rhus’ flu or fever along with a dry swollen throat, hoarseness, chills and much weariness and fatigue.

For skin, Rhus tox soothes itching, blistering rashes and red patches whether due to poison ivy, other irritants or hives, especially if symptoms worsen with getting wet or cold. Certain cases of shingles have found much relief in this remedy as well. Rhus' anti-inflammatory powers extend to soothing eye inflammation, swollen eyelids and cold sores, as well as facial swelling and heavy, painful-to-touch occipital headaches.

Whether induced by pains, irritations or other stresses, cases with extreme restlessness, anxious nerves and a sense of helplessness can find additional relief in Rhus tox. Other symptoms and charachteristics that indicate Rhus include: a desire for fresh, but not cold, air, a worsening of symptoms at night, a frequent desire to stretch and sleep disturbed by dreams of exertion. It applies best to chilly individuals very sensitive to cold conditions. All its symptoms are better with heat, hot bathing and dry weather, and worse at night and with damp cold.

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

The truth about gardening & your pain symptoms

Last Saturday, I spent nearly the entire day in the garden; but that was not my intention when I first set out.  What started as a minor hedge trimming session, quickly morphed into a major can of worms, with weeding, digging, heavy raking planting and mulching.  All said and done, the project grew into a major landscaping re-vamp that would require days, not hours, and a commitment that this 50 year old body was not entirely ready for.  By the end of the day, I was dirty, sweaty, sore, exhausted, and with just a touch of stress knowing I needed to start up the next morning in order to finish the project.  Yes, it felt great!

The homeopaths in our audience know what's coming next; and lucky for me, because I work for a homeopathic company, I did too.  Arnica, Arnica, Arnica - a simple, safe, basic solution for overexertion, muscle aches and pain.  No matter how experienced you are with homeopathy, it's important to remember the basics.  I say this because even the pros forget to review them from time to time.  In this case I remembered, and knew I needed a dose of Arnica to help me recover so I could be back out the next morning.  Even after 20+ years of using homeopathy, I'm still amazed by how well this remedy works. 

Equally important to this story, is the realization that gardening is hard work, but can also be great exercise.   On June 6th, we acknowledge this idea by designating the day as National Gardening Exercise Day.  The point is, we don't always have to spend an hour in the gym on cardio or cross-fit.  A few hours in the garden will burn calories, tighten your muscles and even work your cardio if you keep up a reasonable pace.  You'll not only see the results in your body, but in your garden, too.

So before you embark on your next gardening project, do a few stretches and remember your homeopathic remedies.  Here's a short list of the best homeopathic single remedies that can help with pain symptoms you may encounter after gardening.

Arnica - #1 First Aid Remedy • Reduces Symptoms of Injuries, Blows & Exertion including Bruising & Pain • Muscle Strains & Soreness • Minor Joint Pains/Sprains • Effects of Shocking Situations

Rhus tox - #1 for Joint Stiffness & Pain • Irritations • Rashes & Common Hives • Especially if pain improves with motion

Ruta grav - #1 for Sprains & Repeat Injury Effects • Eyestrain • Backache • Wrist Pain • Cartilage & Tendons

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

Plan for your next summer outing - 7 ways homeopathy can help

Summer is just a couple of weeks away, and that means more time outdoors and usually more time travelling. With hot, muggy weather quickly setting in for most of us, it's not too early to think about homeopathic products to help you navigate family "woes" when things don't go perfectly.

1. Hyland's Homeopathic Calendula Spray

Too sensitive to touch? Hyland's Homeopathic Calendula Spray makes application easy! Spray on minor cuts, abrasions, diaper rash, etc. .

Most homeopathic reference books refer to Calendula as a remarkable healing topical remedy due to its uncanny ability to accelerate the mending surface tissues and minimize scarring. The only surface wounds that should not have Calendula are those that might have something trapped under the skin. Otherwise abrasions, sores, cuts, tears, lacerations, minor burns, mend quickly under its gentle guidance. If sore spots or old wounds feel worse in damp weather, Calendula can be particularly helpful. Comes in two sizes:

2. Arnica Bump Stick

This lightweight dispenser offers no muss no fuss applications of 1-800 Homeopathy clear Arnica ointment onto bruises, tender chaffed skin, chapped lips and dry skin. Its size makes it easy to carry the healing benefits along on outings and trips. Whether taking Homeopathic Arnica tablets internally or applying the ointment locally, or both, for best results, dose the injury as soon as possible to minimize bruising, tenderness, swelling, trauma and inflammation. This homeopathic ointment is for external use only.

3. Hyland's Homeopathic Poison Ivy / Oak

Exposure to poison ivy / oak often results in skin breaks out with red, swollen, intensely itching, burning, watery blisters sometimes followed by oozing or crusting. This soothing homeopathic formula is safe for adults and children and can be used in conjunction with other medications.

4. Car Sickness #100

Whether symptoms are related to motion, being contained in a stuffy space for hours on the road, or changes in diet, this classic homeopathic formula helps travelers avoid or reduce dizziness, sick headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and sleeplessness without groggy side effects.

5. Swimmer's Ear #32

Whether filled with water, wax or mucus, this homeopathic remedy can stimulate the body’s natural ability to clear ear canals out before bacteria can settle in. Ideal for swimmers, this natural formula offers natural support whenever ears feel congested, but if infection is possible, professional guidance is advised.

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

Don’t let pain constrain your potential.

Pain is a catch-22. We need exercise to stay healthy, yet exercise causes pain, and pain usually tells us not to move, so why bother? You know why!  How - is the question.

While helping us heal aches, pains and injuries more efficiently, homeopathy can also help our bodies work through and around all the mixed messages of the past which otherwise create barriers. It may take a pro to untangle chronic pains, but help yourself to all these ways to ease injuries, localize pain and help the body heal.

Backache #199 - All injured, stiff or achy joints can enjoy this popular classic!

Help your back relax and recover ASAP! If not put in check, back pains can start as a nuisance and grow into a fun-stealing pain in the xyz. But numbing pain medications have their drawbacks, too. Why not let mother nature step in on your behalf? By easing symptoms of cramping, muscular tension, minor stiffness, bruising, minor swelling and pain, this classic formula can calm backaches naturally. Whether exertion, minor injury, stress, fevers, irritation or everyday use causes the pain, these quick-dissolving tablets can help you and your back relax.

Homeopathic Ingredients: Aconite, Arnica, Bellis per, Bryonia, Magnesium phos, Rhus tox. 

Rheumatic Pain #14 - Joint pain, minor arthritic stiffness and related muscle aches can find natural relief in this much-loved formula.

Whether suffering a bout of achiness after a chilling walk or irritating joint pain anytime, this classic formula can ease symptoms of minor stiffness, pain, cramping, redness and irritation in joints, without the scary side effects typical of other OTC options. How? By combining the single remedies which can relieve a variety of related symptoms: red irritated tissues, stiff joints (large & small), muscle tension, radiating or sharp pains and sensitivities to cold or damp weather.

While any bout of stiffness will enjoy this remedy, if you suspect rheumatism, a professional consult is advised.

Homeopathic Ingredients: Aconite, Bryonia, Cinchona, Magnesium phos, Rhus tox 

Neuralgia #9 - For diverse pains in diverse places– facial pain, throbbing headaches, plus spine, back & neck pain...

This formula’s three dynamic ingredients specialize in relieving a variety of pain symptoms. Belladonna covers throbbing hot pains, especially in the head, face and ears, but anywhere will do. The champion antispasmodic Mag phos covers diverse cramping and radiating pains. Spigelia is a fascinating remedy that relieves very painful, needling and radiating pains with burning sensations. As for diverse places, their applications extend to head, eyes, jaw, face, neck, back, spine and muscles. All its ingredients are available as single remedies.

Homeopathic Ingredients: Belladonna, Mag phos, Spigelia

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

Find Your Remedy!  1-800-HOMEOPATHY Free Mobile App is here!

Put 1-800-HOMEOPATHY in your pocket– next to your Arnica vial.  

1-800-HOMEOPATHY's Remedy Finder mobile app lets you find and buy remedies wherever you go. Navigate the Remedy Finder from broad symptoms down to more specific symptoms and modalities and find the remedy that's right for you.

Stay on top of blog topics and special offers, and browse our latest catalogs, all from your phone.  With just a few swipes you can go to our website, locate products, read our seasonal and trending topic blogs, make purchases and find a store near you. When you can't find your catalog, pick up your phone, lap top or tablet and flip through our e-catalog.

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

3 unexpected summer outing nightmares, and how to prepare with homeopathy.

You've probably read about common travel nightmares like flight cancellations and delays, missing reservations at hotels, lost luggage or cash and even car problems while on the highway.  You can file all of these under the "stress" category,  for which there are many homeopathic remedy options to help, like Nervous Tension - Tissue P, Hyland's Nerve Tonic, Tranquility #74 and Anxiousness #320.  If you are worried about these travel nightmares, you can even check out more homeopathic options in our stress category here, including many homeopathic single remedies.  In this article, however, we wanted to focus on three travel nightmares you might not expect - ones that can really ruin a summer outing if you're not prepared:  Motion / Car Sickness, Sunburn and Traveller's Diarrhea

1. Motion Sickness / Car Sickness: Has this happened to you or perhaps a child or passenger in your car?  There's almost nothing harder to clean up than a child's vomit all over your new car's upholstery.  Up hills, around corners, stop and go traffic, in flight turbulence, and the floating / rocking of any size boat can all lead to motion sickness.  Fortunately, these homeopathic remedies can help.

Car Sickness #100 - Whether symptoms are related to motion, being contained in a stuffy space for hours on the road, or changes in diet, this classic formula helps travelers avoid or reduce dizziness, sick headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and sleeplessness without groggy side effects.

Homeopathic Formula:

• Cocculus - Homeopathy’s #1 single travel remedy fights off motion sickness, sleeplessness, lower back pain, and the effects of losing sleep, such as fatigue related to jet lag.
• Petroleum - Relieves the longer lasting symptoms resulting from car, train or sea sickness, especially in gastric complaints with diarrhea and nausea.
• Pulsatilla - This multipurpose single extends to car sickness when the only relief is to have the window down (fresh air).
• Tabacum can save your vacation if the typical faint sinking feeling, vomiting, nausea and vertigo prevail.

Also take a look at these other homeopathic remedy options - Hyland's Motion Sickness and Cocculous Indicus

2. Sunburns: Despite everything we know about over-exposure to the sun, many of us still over do it.  In fact, the prevalence can range from 30%-50% of adults in any given year, and cases in children are usually more common.  Whether it's because we don't apply enough sunscreen, or we don't anticipate how powerful the sun can be at certain times, burns happen.  When they do, it can really ruin a stretch of days or even a week or more from pain, itchiness and sleeplessness.

Calendula Ointment - Speeds healing and reduces scarring of abrasions, cuts, sores, sunburn and minor burns.  Derived from a member of the common marigold, Calendula has been used for centuries to accelerate healing and the growth of new skin in a variety of skin injuries and irritations. Scrapes, abrasions, superficial cuts, chaffed skin, dry skin, sunburns and other skin irritations can heal faster with less scarring when treated with this clear Calendula rich ointment.

You should also check out Hyland's Calendula Spray if your looking for a slightly easier, less messy application.

3. Traveler's Diarrhea:  According to the CDC, traveler's diarrhea is the MOST common illness affecting travellers.  Although more often associated with international travel destinations, travelling anywhere usually means you're dining out more, on different foods, and on different cycles, and this can wreak havoc on your digestive system. 

Traveller's Diarrhea #335:  Natural relief when dietary changes, motion sickness or travel stress cause diarrhea.  Between motion sickness, jet lag, change of diet, excesses and overall stress, travel often leads to diarrhea and nausea. Even if rich fatty foods, alcohol, coffee, stimulants, tainted food, stomach flu or constipation are part of the cause, this formula helps balance the body’s response to change and eases the discomfort and fatigue of watery or burning diarrhea.

Homeopathic Formula:

• Arsenicum alb - The major stomach flu and tainted food remedy, relieves violent burning diarrhea.
• Carbo veg - Offers fast relief from gas, bloating, nausea, sour belching and the diarrhea that often follows.
• Nux vomica - Relieves diarrhea resulting from stress, tainted food or consumption of excess food, alcohol, coffee or stimulants; its diarrhea may alternate with constipation.
• Pulsatilla - Relieves diarrhea related to car sickness, rich food and pork, especially useful for children’s diarrhea.
• Veratrum alb - Diarrhea is a trademark of this comprehensive single, it can be particularly helpful if ice cold drinks or constipation from doing too little cause copious diarrhea with great prostration.

You can also check out these homeopathic remedies for related digestive ailments often associated with travel: Constipation #66, Hyland's Indigestion and  Tummyaches #179 for nausea and stomach disorders in children.

Wherever you are going, let homeopathy help you embrace every opportunity.

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

Colds in the summer or allergies, does it matter?

Hacking cough, runny nose, postnasal drip, throat irritation, sneezing and sinus troubles are common to summer cold and allergy sufferers. But are these summer cold symptoms or allergy symptoms?

Cold viruses can be the cause, as they are active all summer. However, allergens deserve the blame for most of the drippy misery, as our resistance to colds is much higher when it is over 70 degrees outside. A key difference lies in duration. A cold in the summer tends to last about seven days. Allergies and their hay fever symptoms can come and go, but overall tend to linger on for months depending on the irritants and the individual. Sometimes allergies feel like several colds strung together. A summer cold can also cause more body aches, more postnasal drip and more acute fatigue than hay fever. Whereas allergies trigger more itchiness in eyes and ears than colds tend to have. Fevers would definitely mark it as a summer cold.

Fortunately, homeopathy does not really care which it is. The right homeopathic remedy will stimulate healing responses that can help the body ease the irritation, cut short the duration of summer cold symptoms and avoid complications that can linger. Homeopathic remedy selection is the key to success.

Single homeopathic remedies for summer cold symptoms:

Finding the right homeopathic remedy involves matching your symptoms to the specific indications of the remedy. It is always wise to jot down all the details you can think of before reading through the each description of a homeopathic remedy.

These homeopathic single remedies can all be very helpful if given to the right case of cold or hay fever.

Allium cepa helps hay fever or colds if the key symptoms are sneezing and watery eyes. The eyes become irritated and the nasal discharge burns causing irritation, a sore throat, hoarseness and a dry hacking cough.

Aconite is more often critical for winter colds, but can help sudden flare ups in summer, too, especially if chilled or emotionally upset. If given with the first sneeze, sniffle, dry throat, dry barking cough, ear pain, fever or other sign that a cold is on its way, Aconite will often cut it short.

Euphrasia is another hay fever specialist that can help colds as well so long as they have burning, teary, red, irritated eyes and bland watery nasal discharge that can alternate with stuffed up nasal passages.

Kali bich eases thick mucus congestions with sinus headaches, ropy gagging post nasal drainage, sinus pain, etc.

Natrum mur relieves colds, hay fever and sinus congestions that have a dry rawness especially in the throat, along with thickening clear to whitish mucus, profuse nasal discharge, watery eyes, post nasal drip and dry tickling coughs.

Nux vomica symptoms often follow a period of stress or excesses, which result in very restless hay fever or colds that may include burning mucus that blocks the nose at night but loosens in the morning, a rough sore throat and a tickling or suffocating cough. Extreme chilliness, bone, back and joint pain, headache and fatigue may be in the picture.

Pulsatilla is key for colds or allergies with burning eyes, dry sore throats, yellow mucus that can fill the air passages and cause hacking wearying coughing fits that often force the cougher to sit up at night. Even if chilly, they cannot stand heat or stuffy hot rooms.

There are of course, many more options available.

The time to act on cold or hay fever symptoms is ASAP. So the best relief comes from a well-stocked medicine cabinet packed full of our natural healing options. But remember, if symptoms linger or feel the least bit out of control, it is best to visit a practitioner. To find a practitioner who uses homeopathy, visit the National Center for Homeopathy’s practitioner search page.

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.

Homeopathy helps kids start off on the right foot

Even though summer is still in full swing, the new school year is quickly approaching, and it's just the right time to consider homeopathic remedies that provide back-to-school support.

How will your child react to the next writing assignment, mistake, disappointment? Between the new teachers, classrooms, classmates, schedule, germs,... and leaving summer behind, the first days of school are very stressful even for homeschoolers. Nerves are restless, senses heightened, emotions piqued. Children often become vulnerable in these first few days, and they need all the support you can offer to get off on the right foot. 1-800 Homeopathy provides safe, non toxic, non addictive, non invasive homeopathic remedies to help them do and feel their best through all the mental, emotional and physical challenges of school.

General Support with Homeopathic Cell Salts

While all the cell salts have their place in any health plan, one stands out as irreplaceable for children and young people aged 0-21 and beyond.

Calc phos

This homeopathic cell salt helps the body resolve growing pains, study headaches, acute anemia, and many more symptoms related to growing up.  At any age its support applies to structural stresses– injured bones, slow healing wounds, joint pain, back pain, weak digestion, acute simple anemia and heavy periods. Key indicators include a desire for change or travel, cravings for fatty, salty foods and an intolerance for dairy products or fruit.

Elasticity Tissue G

This homeopathic cell salt combination helps stretching veins, bones, muscles and other tissues keep their flexibility while advancing inches every year. Though we often think of elasticity as an aging issue, imagine the elasticity it takes to go from an egg to 8 pounds, or a newborn to over 5 feet. The elasticity in our veins keeps them from getting stretched and varicosed. The elasticity in our muscles, tendons, skin and nerves keeps them strong and flexible.

Homeopathic Ingredients: Calc fluor, Calc phos, Kali phos, Natrum mur

Homeopathic Support for Nervousness

Responses designed to save our lives in emergencies, get in the way of doing our best. Our stomachs flutter, our nerves quiver, our minds dull or tense. These solutions can calm the turmoil and free the mind to succeed:

Nervous Tension Tissue P

Whether the stress results from mental strain (sadness, anger, work, study, tests, deadlines, pressues, sleeplessness...) or physical strain (pain, illness, growth, convalescence, pregnancy), this homeopathic remedy offers balancing vitality and healing support that is safe for all ages and stages. Its basic cell salts offer cells support for what they need to grow and mend tissues as well as to relieve tension, fatigue, growing pains, cramps and daily stress.

Homeopathic Ingredients: Kali phos, Calc fluor, Calc phos, Mag phos

Anxious / Low Spirits #304

Looking for a calmer more confident you? Our best selling stress combination might set you on the right path. With a little help, the body can ease its stress responses to help you relax and put your best foot forward. Whether the stress involves stage fright, exams, deadlines, worry, homesickness, grief or sad news, this highly trusted combination offers your symptoms a break. Its temporary relief extends from symptoms of jittery restlessness, nervousness, anxious thoughts to low spirits, fatigue, dulled responses and irritability. Symptoms of occasional sleeplessness, tummy aches, a lump-in-the-throat sensation, restlessness, diarrhea and low spirits are also included.

- Not sure which potency to choose?  Click here for some basic guidelines. 

- Click here for more Homeopathy FAQs

 Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.