It seems that every year, at this time, many Canadians become ill with some variations of the influenza virus. In fact, the “flu season” runs from September until April. During this period, it is not uncommon for some people to contract this infection more than once. Indeed, it seems that with greater population growth, we see more instances of transmission.
There also seems to be an increased amount of media coverage around this issue, specifically weighing the pros and cons of vaccination. The Flu virus, or Influenza as it is also known, is an infectious disease that affects both birds and mammals. In humans, it spreads via airborne particles produced when someone coughs or sneezes. This method of infection is the main reason why schools, hospitals, workplaces, and other heavily-populated areas are the most common sites of contagion.
While not particularly harmful, this ailment can be the precursor to more serious respiratory illnesses, such as Pneumonia.
Many people tend to associate the common cold with influenza, but there are several differences. While both are respiratory infections, they are caused by different viruses. Cold symptoms are usually gone within a week, while those of the Flu may take up to twice as long to dissipate. We also see fever, extreme fatigue, coughing and severe body aches more frequently in Influenza cases. There is also a high incidence of chest and sinus congestion, and in some individuals, we see throbbing headaches.
Although a great portion of the population opts for the conventional Flu vaccination, there are alternatives. Homeopathic medicine can provide excellent solutions for Flu treatment and prevention.
It is important to note that Homeopathy does not treat based on a general disease archetype, but rather on specific symptoms, meaning that two people with the same condition may not benefit from the same remedy. This is what makes homeopathic medicine so effective in the treatment of Influenza. Each case requires a different approach, as unique as the individual being treated. It is therefore critical to examine the onset, symptoms and habits of each patient. Some would argue that the symptoms are irrelevant because the disease is the same, and thus a uniform treatment (such as the Flu vaccine) is the best course of action. What must be considered is the fact that everyone reacts differently to disease. Not everyone with the Flu will have severe body aches, or fevers. There are often different combinations of symptoms. Treating these unique combinations is the strength of homeopathy. Let’s examine several examples of Remedies that work well in different manifestations of the Flu.
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES FOR EACH SYMPTOM
Aconite is an excellent remedy for Influenza cases that have progressed rapidly; that is, the onset is sudden and comes with little warning. The typical Aconite patient is extremely restless due to anxiety, and may have a flushed face. These patients also tend to have high fevers and pronounced body aches.
Arsenicum album is a remedy of particular relevance in Flu cases where there is great nausea and vomiting. As with Aconite, there is also anxiety, but here it is more prominent.
Bryonia works well in situations where the onset and progression of Influenza is slower. Bryonia patients have severe body aches, particularly in the neck and shoulders. These pains are felt upon any motion, so these individuals usually prefer sitting or lying still.
Gelsemium is a useful prescription for those who suffer from dizziness and weakness with the Flu. Individuals requiring this remedy also feel intense shivers running up and down their back, as well as a sore throat. These patients are generally thirstless.
CASE HISTORY
These are but a few of the many homeopathic prescriptions available for Influenza. A perfect example of the diverse symptoms that can be treated was seen in a patient who had experienced sudden febrile conditions. She awoke feeling perfectly normal, but by late morning complained of a sore throat and high temperature. By the early afternoon the patient experienced severe aching all over her body.
The appropriate prescription was Aconite 30CH. By the next day, she felt no aches and the temperature was gone, but she was now experiencing dizziness and the sore throat had worsened. The Aconite had been effective in controlling the initial impact of the Flu, but a different remedy was required to quell the residual symptoms. Gelsemium 30CH was prescribed in two doses. By the third day, the patient had no further ailments. The sore throat and dizziness were gone.
Aside from illustrating the efficacy of the remedies, this case also demonstrates the versatility of Homeopathy. The initial prescription worked perfectly for the original symptoms, but as the course of the disease changed, a new approach was necessary. Switching to Gelsemium was the solution in fully dispelling the Flu.
INFLUENZA PREVENTION
It is also important to note that homeopathic medicine can be utilized as a preventive therapy against Influenza. Products such as Homeococksinum (available in health food stores and homeopathic pharmacies) are the homeopathic equivalent of the Flu vaccination. A single dose taken by a healthy individual before or during Flu season can help boost immunity and prevent infection altogether.
As well, Oscillococcinum, one of the world’s most popular natural flu medications, can reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms when taken at the onset.
The dosage of a Homeopathic remedy plays an important role in treating the Flu. A low dose can yield very few improvements, while an excessively high one can aggravate the symptoms. Each case is different, but factors such as age and vitality play an important part in determining how much of a remedy each person should take. In general, acute conditions require higher doses, while lower doses over a prolonged period of time are beneficial to chronic issues. With Influenza, the common potency tends to be 30CH taken two to three times per day. Many patients may not notice an immediate change or improvement in their condition, but keeping an open line of communication with your Homeopath can help alter the course of the treatment, leading to optimal results.
Homeopathic medicine provides a safe and effective treatment alternative for the Flu. However, it is also an excellent option in many other health conditions. As with any homeopathic treatment, the best results are always yielded with the guidance of an experienced homeopath.
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