Nasal congestion occurs when nasal tissues become swollen with excess fluid, usually due to colds, influenza or allergies. Congestion can also affect your chest. According to Charles P. Felton, M.D., clinical professor of medicine at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, chest congestion from an infection is accompanied by fever, chills and discolored phlegm. See your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Some people turn to homeopathy to alleviate congestion. Homeopathy is not intended as a replacement for medical care. Before trying homeopathic remedies, consult your doctor.
Kali Bichromicum
Homeopathic medicine, based on the principle that "like cures like," attempts to stimulate the body's healing response by giving infinitesimal amounts of a substance that -- in larger doses -- would cause the same symptoms in a healthy person. Beneforce notes that kali bichromicum is produced from potassium dichromate, a poisonous oxidizing agent. However, the extreme dilutions of homeopathic preparation render the substance harmless. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that homeopathic doctors use kali bichromicum to treat sinus congestion. Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Health says it may also be used for the chest congestion and cough of bronchitis, particularly when coughing causes pain behind the breastbone. A homeopath is even more likely to prescribe kali bichromicum if symptoms are worse in the cold and early in the morning, but improve with warmth.
Natrum Muriaticum
Natrum muriaticum is made from sodium chloride, or rock salt. If you have nasal or sinus congestion accompanied by a runny nose, or "watery" chest congestion, it is very likely that your homeopath will prescribe natrum muriaticum. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that natrum muriaticum may also be prescribed for congestion caused by allergies. Homeopaths take personality traits into account when suggesting remedies. Beneforce notes that the personality type best suited to the natrum remedy is sensitive, inhibited, depressed and moody. If symptoms are worsened by hot sun, stuffy rooms and emotional stress, but improve with fresh air, fasting and sweating, this is another indication that natrum muriaticum is the correct remedy. Ask your doctor before using the natrum remedy for congestion.
Bryonia Alba
Bryonia alba, also called bryony, is made from the wild hops plant, a perennial vine. According to Beneforce, the root, which is ordinarily extremely toxic, is the plant part used in preparation; homeopaths believe it must be harvested before the vine flowers. Bryonia, a common homeopathic remedy for congestion, is considered most appropriate for people who tend towards irritability and perfectionism, and who become demanding and critical when ill. If symptoms are aggravated by movement, cold and dampness, but relieved by warmth and rest, this is another indication for bryonia. Check with your physician before taking bryonia to relieve congestion.
Safety and Efficacy
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that homeopathic remedies in high dilution, taken under the supervision of trained professionals, are generally recognized as safe. The website adds that although there is isn't much clinical evidence to support homeopathy's effectiveness in treating specific conditions, there is some observational and anecdotal evidence demonstrating it has positive effects.
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