Aconitum The 200-year-old health system napellus of homeopathy is based on natural sources and is unique in its “like cures like” philosophy that uses extremely diluted substances to trigger the body’s natural defenses. “The word homeopathy is derived from two words: homeo—meaning similar, and pathos—meaning suffering. Basically, it means that a substance has the power to cure the same symptoms it can create,” says Kate Birch, a certified classical homeopath at the HippHealth Center for Holistic Healing, in Minneapolis. “Moreover, the more a substance is diluted through homeopathic preparation, the more potent it can be for healing when given upon homeopathic indications.” For most health conditions, including chronic complaints, homeopaths recommend tailoring remedies to an individual’s constitution, but first-aid applications are relatively universal and simple. Homeopathic first-aid can be administered for muscle strains, splinters, minor burns and even the common cold. Available in health food stores and pharmacies, homeopathic remedies come in various potencies in the form of pellets, tinctures and topical agents.
Gentle, but beneficial Arnica montana is perhaps the best-known application, used for acute injury and post-surgery. In a 2016 review of studies in the American Journal of Therapeutics, a team of international researchers found Arnica to be more effective than a placebo for swelling, bruising and post-surgery pain, and suggested it could be an alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Calendula is a heavy hitter for wound care, skin ailments, minor burns including sunburn, diaper rash and post-tooth extraction. It offers antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and is available for topical and internal use.
Soft Tissue Trauma, Burns and Bites
Nissen highlights Ruta graveolens and Rhus toxicdendron for soft tissue injury and tendonitis and suggests Symphytum for serious damage to cartilage and ligaments. Gentle Go-To Medicine For puncture wounds or injuries Whether treating a child’s skinned knee or an athlete with a mild to modinvolving nerves, Hypericum pererate injury, regular potencies offer benefits foratum is helpful. She emphasizes without a high risk of unpleasant or the importance of using remedies dangerous contraindications. “In immediately and properly to maxigeneral, homeopathic remedies mize the potential for rapid healing are safe for people of all ages and pain reduction. because if taken as directed, Birch says that bee stings and there are no side effects or drug allergic responses respond well to interactions. This is due to the Apis mellifica and fevers and headLedum palustre fact that remedies have been made aches to Belladonna. Using through a process that renders Cantharis or Urtica urens the substances harmless,” says certified classical homeopath Myra for first- and secNissen, in Davis and Walnut Creek, California. ond-degree Classical homeopathic treatment is based on a person’s unique burns can help physical, emotional and mental nature, and requires deeper study to to prevent find the most appropriate remedies, but first-aid applications are most blisters and often universally straightforward. “A homeopathic first-aid kit at home minimize pain, is useful for cuts, burns, bumps and bruises, insect bites, poison oak/ivy while Silicea is and minor illnesses,” says Nissen. a good choice Rhus toxicdendron 28
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by Marlaina Donato
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Create a Family First-Aid Kit
Arnica montana
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Homeopathy to the Rescue
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healing ways
