Nux Vomica & Pregnancy

Nux vomica, a homeopathic remedy, may provide relief for some of the normal discomforts of pregnancy. While nux vomica may be effective for some people for the treatment of these symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, more research is needed to confirm these claims. Homeopathy is an alternative medical treatment, and is not a substitute for the care your primary physician or OB-GYN provides.

Common Pregnancy Complaints

While difficulties such as nausea, vomiting and constipation are common in pregnancy, there is no need to simply suffer through them, according to the Central Council for Research in Homeopathy. Nausea and vomiting are very common during the first three months of pregnancy beginning between the fourth and eighth week, but usually disappear or diminish between the sixteenth and twentieth week. These symptoms are most common in the morning and are made worse by low blood sugar as a result of hunger, stress, spicy and greasy foods, certain motions and changing hormones.

While most of the body changes and discomforts associated with pregnancy are normal and do not last, homeopathic remedies may make the transition more manageable. Flu-like symptoms or severe and persistent vomiting should be reported to your doctor right away, as they may indicate a more serious condition.

Homeopathy

The general therapeutic principle of homeopathy is that "like cures like." In other words, a very small dilution of a normally toxic substance, in the case of nux vomica, can according to this theory treat the symptoms that a larger dose would cause. In fact, if a healthy person takes nux vomica, she may experience the symptoms that it treats in a unhealthy or unbalanced individual. it is important to note that taken correctly, homeopathic remedies can be used safely without the risk of side effects, since the dosage of the normally toxic ingredient is so minuscule.

Nux Vomica

Nux vomica, also known as strynchnos or strychnine, affects the central nervous system and may cause stiff neck and facial muscles, restlessness, anxiety, excitability of the reflexes and convulsions in toxic doses, according to the CDC. However, in the diluted homeopathic dose, nux vomica is considered quite safe and is even recommended during pregnancy by many midwifes and homeopathic physicians.

Other uses for this remedy include irritability, sensitivity to noise and odors, excitability, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, vertigo and headache. According to a 2009 article in the "China journal of Chinese Materia Medica," the toxic and therapeutic doses of nux vomica are very close. Nux vomica can be found in safe dosages from certain health foods stores and homeopathic pharmacies. However, consult a homeopathic doctor, midwife or other qualified practitioner for a proper diagnosis and dosage in order to prevent poisoning.

Safety

If you are pregnant and have been experiencing sustained severe nausea and vomiting, you may have a serious condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum, which requires immediate medical attention. It is critical that you see your doctor or midwife right away, as this condition may quickly lead to dehydration and put both you and your unborn child at serious risk.

Considerations

Ask your doctor if homeopathy, and nux vomica specifically, is a safe and appropriate treatment option for you. Find a homeopathic physician with experience treating pregnant patients. If you don't know a homeopathic physician, ask your doctor to refer you to one. Though nux vomica may be effective for your symptoms, it is in no way a substitute for the medical care provided by your doctor.