Homeopathic phosphorus is a remedy some people use to treat colds accompanied by coughing and thirst, according to the homeopathic first aid book, "Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines." Homeopathy is said to work by triggering the body's response to some stimulus, which then allows the body to heal itself. Homeopathic treatment for colds may shorten healing time, proponents say, and is generally safe when used under the supervision of an experienced practitioner. Consult a medical doctor about symptoms that do not subside within a few days.
Step 1
Choose the potency of phosphorus from a homeopathic first aid kit available at health food stores. Most remedies available from these sources will be lower potencies, ranging from 6X to 30C and several potencies in between, according to University of Michigan Health System.
Step 2
Consult a homeopathic practitioner or the specialist at the health food store if you are unsure what potency to use. They can also tell you if self-treatment is appropriate for a specific condition.
Step 3
Take one dose of phosphorus. Most homeopaths suggest starting with one dose and waiting to see the response. Depending on the brand of remedy purchased, it may be in pill or liquid form. Dose size will be on the bottle, or your practitioner will direct you to give the appropriate dose.
Step 4
Wait and allow the remedy to work, observing and noting whether there are any improvements, or if symptoms stay the same or get worse. Wait at least 30 minutes for results.
Step 5
Stop giving the remedy after improvement has occurred.
Step 6
Repeat the remedy if improvement lags or if symptoms return after the previous dose, adds the University of Michigan Health System.
Step 7
Continue administering the remedy if the cold progresses.
Step 8
Choose a different remedy if no improvement occurs or if the symptoms change, indicating a different remedy. Use a homeopathic first aid book for help choosing a new remedy during self-treatment of simple ailments. Call a physician if cold symptoms worsen or persist for more than a few days.
Tips and Warnings
- If symptoms get worse after giving a dose of remedy, this means the person is having an aggravation and the dose is too large or the potency is too high. Contact a homeopath for suggestions about how to adjust the dose and potency. This is beyond self-treatment for lay people, unless you are very knowledgeable about using homeopathy. Phosphorus is helpful for people with upper respiratory symptoms such as deep, painful coughing, tremendous thirst and high fever. The remedy is indicated for someone with a loud, constant cough accompanied by tremendous thirst for icy cold drinks and the need to vomit when the drink warms up in the stomach. The patient will likely have a high fever and be fearful, wanting company and sympathy, according to the University of California at San Diego's "Complementary Medicine" website. Homeopathic first aid books and kits are available in health food stores and from online homeopathic pharmacies.
- This information is not meant to replace medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. If the patient becomes sicker after receiving a homeopathic remedy, contact a health care practitioner.
Things You'll Need
- Homeopathic first aid kit
- Homeopathic phosphorus
- Homeopathic first aid book
- Phone number for homeopathic practitioner
References
- "Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines"; Stephen Cummings, F.N.P. and Dana Ullman, M.P.H.;1984
- Complementary Medicine: Influenza--Homeopathic Remedies
- University of Michigan Health System: Allergies and Sensitivities -- Homeopathic Remedies
