Homeopathy is an established alternative or natural therapy that is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including catarrh. This field is growing as patients seek out less invasive approaches to healthcare, especially ones that do not involve a raft of unknown side effects.
What is Catarrh?
Catarrh is typically caused by the effects of an infection, which prompts the body to secrete an excess of mucus. The mucus is part of the body's defence mechanism, protecting the sensitive passageways and helping to expel the source of the infection. The most common triggers for catarrh include viral infections such as the common cold, while other causes can include allergic reactions to dust, grass and pet fur. Non-allergic reactions may include an aversion to environmental pollution or cigarette smoke. The most common symptoms linked with catarrh include:
- A headache
- Congested airways
- Persistent coughing
- Presence of phlegm
- Restricted breathing; and
- Tiredness
Conventional medical treatment typically makes use of decongestants. These can bring temporary relief, but can also leave the passageways dry and may result in the user becoming dependent on the medication.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy works on the principle of "like treating like", with specially formulated remedies designed to provoke or stimulate the body's own ability to heal itself, which will strengthen its resistance to infection. The remedies that form the basis of all homeopathic treatments are produced using guidelines unique to homeopathy, utilising a combination of animal, plant and mineral extracts. The unique elements are repeatedly diluted in water, with the essence believed to be retained in the remedy.
Homeopathy and Catarrh
Homeopathy can treat a range of ailments and conditions, including catarrh. A consultation with the patient precedes any prescription, with an evaluation of physical and psychological factors complemented by the individual's medical history and lifestyle. Any homeopathic treatment for catarrh is aimed at relieving the effects of the infection and encouraging the expulsion of mucus. To this end a homeopath will typically recommend one of the following remedies: Arsenicum album, Kalium carbonicum, Mercurius solubilis; Nux vomica, Pulsatilla nigricans or Sabadilla; amongst others. All these treatments will typically promote the discharge of mucus in some form, and are indicated in the treatment of colds, hayfever and sinusitis.
Find out about other effective natural catarrh treatments.
Originally published on Sep 30, 2010
