Homeopathy is a system of medicine invented by Samuel Hahnemann in the late 1700s. It uses minute doses from mineral, plant and animal sources to treat acute and chronic illness, including seasonal allergy symptoms. Hahnemann explained his theories in a book still used as a homeopathic textbook today, "The Organon of the Medical Art." The University of Maryland notes that there have been limited studies which have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic therapies. Seek advice from a medical professional before treating yourself with homeopathic remedies.
Allium Cepa
Allium cepa is a homeopathic remedy made from the red onion and is used to treat allergies and hay fever. The remedy is especially useful when the mucus is thin and clear and runs easily, according to William Boericke's "Materia Medica." Frequent sneezing may also occur and the nose may have a burning sensation.
Arsenicum
The person needing Arsenicum to treat his allergies is usually anxious and restless and has a great deal of anxiety about his health, according to Boericke. His symptoms aggravate after drinking milk. The sinuses inflame from allergies to trees and pollen, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting or asthma.
Euphrasia
The common name for the plant that this remedy is made of is eyebright. Boericke lists Euphrasia as a remedy for allergies when the tears are burning and the mucus is bland. The person may also have frequent sneezing. Many of the allergy symptoms for those needing this remedy center around the eyes, such as constantly watery eyes with a thick mucus discharge or pressure felt in the eyes.
Nux Vomica
Nux vomica is made from the poison nut plant. The allergic sufferer experiences a great deal of irritability when she need this remedy. Sensitivities include: light, noise, odors and light. Mucus that flows well during the day but becomes congested at night indicates a person needing Nux vomica. She may experience nose bleeds as well. She may also have asthma with the allergies.
Dulcamara
Bitter sweet plant is the source of the homeopathic remedy known as Dulcamara. Boericke advises the use of Dulcamara for people with cat allergies. The symptoms appear more frequently at the end of summer. The nose in those needing this remedy is completely blocked with no mucus flowing. When mucus appears, it can be yellow, thick or bloody. Exposure to the slightest cold air blocks the nose again.
References
- "The Organon of the Medical Art"; Samuel Hahnemann; 1996
- "Materia Medica with Repertory"; William Boericke; 1927
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Allergic Rhinitis
