History of Homeopathy
To understand how homeopathic convallaria works, it is import to first understand the basic principles of homeopathy. Homeopathic medicine was founded by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann in the late 1700s. Hahnemann was a German physician who was frustrated with the ill effects and dangers of the conventional medical treatments of his time. He theorized that "like cures like" and explained this through his Law of Similars. According to Hahnemann, a substance which causes certain symptoms, will also cure those same symptoms when administered in highly diluted amounts. Homeopathic remedies are diluted to the point where so little of the original substance remains that harmful side effects are all but eliminated. To determine the effects of a substance and also its homeopathic potential, remedies undergo a process called "proving", in which small quantities of the original substance are given to healthy individuals, and all side effects are recorded. These symptoms are used to determine how the homeopathic medicine will be used.
Convallaria Majalis
Convallaria majalis is also known as lily of the valley. It is a perennial flower found in Europe, Siberia and parts of North America. The flower is bitter, and its odor is so strong, that it is said to cause headaches. It has been used in herbal medicine as a heart tonic and diuretic. According to Henrietta's Herbal guide, it acts on the human circulatory system much like digitalis (foxglove), but without the dangerous side effects. However, large doses can cause cardiac excitation, and as with many herbs, it must be used with caution. It also acts as a purgative on the digestive system and a diuretic for the kidneys. The Herb Guide also warns that large quantities of the herb may be toxic, and even cause death. Of course, the homeopathic version of convallaria is highly diluted, and side effects are rare.
Uses of Homeopathic Convallaria
According to the Homeopathic Materia Medica, convallaria majalis is a heart remedy. It supports and helps to regulate the heart. Symptoms which indicate use of convallaria include: dull headache, irritability, grieves easily, raw or sore lips, grinding of the teeth, thick or heavy coating of the tongue, raw feeling in the throat and sensitivity of the abdomen. In females, symptoms may manifest as soreness in the uterine region in conjunction with heart palpitations. There may also be pain in sacro-iliac joints, running down the legs. Heart patients will have palpitations and heart irregularities which include the sensation that the heart has stopped beating and then starts again. It is important to note that homeopathic assessments are complex, and include examination of more than just physical symptoms. Therefore, it is important not to self-diagnose. If interested in trying convallaria majalis for a heart condition, first consult with a licensed homeopathic physician.
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