One of the main causes of anxiety and stress in this current unprecedented global situation is that our future is unknown, and we can feel we are not able to control the outcome. This may make many of us feel uncertain, confused and anxious about what lies ahead.
Additionally, we are being conditioned by some media to feel that we are powerless. Looking at the worst-case scenario and perceiving danger from the outside world can knock us off balance. The frequent arousal of fear and anxiety comprises our health and wellbeing.
For some of us, there may be an element of grief, grief for the loss of what our life once looked like, and for the hardship the current situation is bringing. These challenging times can trigger anxious thoughts and feelings.
Homeopathy can help us adapt and bring us back into alignment, making us more resilient to stress as well as supporting us during times of sadness.
There have been multiple studies showing that homeopathic remedies can reduce anxiety symptoms dramatically. (i)(ii). In one study done in 2012, the homeopathic remedy Ignatia was shown to reduce anxiety symptoms in mice.(iii)
All homeopathic medicines are individually prescribed. Different medicines are used to treat different symptoms.
Here are my top 7 homeopathic first aid remedies to help ease anxiety and the indications for use:
1. Arsenicum Album
For people with feelings of insecurity and fear about health, the future and money which often gets worse at night or when alone. They desire company but can become controlling or critical of those they are with. They obsess over small details, desiring neatness and order.
2. Aconite
Indicated for great fear and anxiety, for shock after a trauma and panic attacks. Symptoms may include palpitations, restlessness, shortness of breath, dry skin, and trembling. They have an intense fear of death, disease, hospitals, and fear of darkness, of going to bed, of ghosts and of going out.
3. Gelsemium
Anticipation anxiety for social outings, events and exams. Come across as apprehensive and timid. They experience performance anxiety that can lead to vertigo, trembling, chills, speechlessness and diarrhoea. Do not like to be in crowds and they desire light and quietness.
4. Argentum Nitricum
For those who experience fear and anxiety before appointments, events or from small spaces or heights. Everyday situations may lead to agitation, obsessive thoughts and behaviours. They can experience digestive issues like diarrhoea and often crave salt and sugar.
5. Ignatia
Ill effects from bad news, fright, anger, grief or loss. They may experience extreme mood swings, going from crying to laughing. Have a desire to be alone, tend to sigh or yawn a lot, and are hypersensitive to external impressions, such as noise, odour, touch, etc. Feel worse from consolation.
6. Lycopodium
They have a severe lack of self-confidence and suffer from anticipation anxiety and stage fright. Will experience anxiety when new challenges arise in work (fear responsibility) or social situations, which may cause digestive problems, irritability or claustrophobia. Desire to be left alone but dreads solitude.
7. Phosphorus
They worry about being alone, being rejected and are frightened easily. Weary of life, indifferent and apathetic, has gloomy forebodings. Oversensitive to external impressions and can be fearful of thunderstorms, darkness, loud noises and crowds.
If you are unsure of which remedy or dosage to take, it’s best to consult with a homeopathic practitioner.
For chronic conditions, homeopaths will gather information from you regarding your medical background, present symptoms and lifestyle factors in order to determine the correct medicine.
(i) Bagherian M, Mojembari AK, Hakami M (2014) The Effects of Homeopathic Medicines on Reducing the Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression: Randomized, Double Blind and Placebo Controlled. J Homeop Ayurv Med 3:167. doi: 10.4172/2167-1206.1000167
(ii) Davidson JR, Morrison RM, Shore J, Davidson RT, Bedayn G. Homeopathic treatment of depression and anxiety. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. 1997 Jan;3(1):46-49.
(iii) Marzotto M, Conforti A, Magnani P, Zanolin ME, Bellavite P (2011) Effects of Ignatia amara in mouse behavioural models. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22226316
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