Home Medicine: Homeopathic First Aid Kit

Homeopathy is a complex science that has evolved over many centuries. It is a very different system of healing than what many people are used to. Homeopathic remedies are extremely diluted, containing just the essence or "˜energy' of their original source. It is believed that by retaining just the energy but none of the forceful compounds of its original source that the remedy is then only effective if it is needed. Homeopathic remedies are assigned and dispensed based on symptoms. For example, if you are coughing and feverish you would take a remedy that matches those symptoms. The remedy would then aid your body's energy in healing the source of those symptoms and returning it to a normal, healthy balance. In homeopathic healing symptoms are not viewed in a negative manner, they are actually a good thing since they are a manifestation of the body working to heal the source of what is causing the symptoms. Homeopathic medicine does not cover up, mask, or "˜cure' problems. Instead, is works with the body in an effort to cure the source of what is ailing, basically helping the body heal its self.

Homeopathic remedies come in different strengths, the most common in order from weakest to strongest are: 6x, 12x, and 30x. Although it is impossible to overdose on a remedy and cause extremely bad results, you can cause imbalances within your system that would slow healing. It is best to start out gently and only increase the strength of a remedy if your body is showing that it needs the extra strength help. In the case of an acute problem, a stronger strength remedy is generally used. Remedies are usually taken under the tongue every 15 minutes for the first hour, and then every 30 min to and hour after that until a change is noticed. As soon as the symptoms are eased the homeopathic remedy should be discontinued giving your body time to heal on its own. If a problem is severe, remedies can be taken as often as every 5-10 minutes. Remedies generally come in either a small sugar pellet or liquid form. The pellets, often called "˜BBs' dissolve easily making them suitable for even very young children. The liquids are alcohol based which gives them a strong flavor that some people, especially children, may find offensive. Pellets are generally taken in dosages of 4-8 at a time, and drops can range from 4-20 or more depending on the remedy. Consult the instructions on the remedy for accurate dosing.

The following remedies help with common problems and should be part of any good homeopathic first aid kit:

Apis- Helpful for relieving the symptoms associated with insect bites.

Arnica- This remedy helps heal symptoms associated with trauma such falls, sprains, and muscle injuries. It's excellent for treating wounds with bruising and soreness. It is also helpful for shock.

Arsenicum- This remedy helps treat diarrhea that has no other specific symptoms, such as traveler's sickness.

Belledona- This is a wonderful remedy for mild colds. It helps ease the following symptoms: mild sore throat, sweating, hot red face, congestion, and fever.

Calendula- Helps aid in healing open wounds from cuts, tears, lacerations or broken skin. Helpful for bleeding, open wounds.

Cantharis- Helpful for treating first degree burns with symptoms of shock.

Coffea- Helps relieve sleeplessness when one is feeling wide awake.

Rhus Tox- Used for treating fevers when the symptoms include extreme restlessness, tossing, turning, and dry tongue.

Ruta- Helpful for pulled muscles and ligaments.

Nux Vomica- Helpful for relieving nausea, indigestion, and motion sickness