Your Guide To Homeopathy

Getting to the root of illnesses, Dr. Mukesh Batra presents PT readers an exclusive four-part series that provides answers to the most frequently asked questions related to Homeopathy.

Q. I suffer from frequent headaches. I also suffer from excessive sweating on my scalp and face, which leaves my pillow soaked. I feel awkward because of my excess sweating. Please help.
Dr. Batra: You should undergo medical tests to rule out certain causes such as a thyroid disorder for your sweating distress. Your headache suggests it could be a migraine or tension headache but only tests can confirm this. In the meantime you may take 4-5 pills of Belladona 30C, twice a day. Please keep your physician updated regarding your health status as this is essential.

Q. I have started losing a lot of hair following my pregnancy and delivery. Please advice.
Dr. Batra: Hair loss is normal for approximately three months after delivery. Beyond that it’s known as postpartum alopecia, which seems to be your ailment. Iron and protein rich foods like green leafy vegetables, sprouts, eggs, chicken and soybean help control hair loss. Do not plait or braid your hair tight as this damages hair. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner. If hair loss persists, consult a local homeopath to rule out any underlying causes. In the meantime, take 4-5 pills of Sepia Officinal is 200C, twice a day.

Q. I’ve been diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Can homeopathy treat this?
Dr. Batra: Hypothyroidism is characterised by low thyroid function. It affects about 3% of the general population. Conventional medicine tends to substitute the natural thyroid hormone with its synthetic equivalent to compensate for thyroid insufficiency. Homeopathy directly stimulates the thyroid gland to secrete thyroxine, the hormone deficient in hypothyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism like water retention, dryness of skin, irregular menses, constipation and depression can be improved considerably using homeopathic remedies. Speak to a local homeopath as this requires long-term treatment, under regular supervision and follow-up.

Q. My hands get rough and the skin peels off after washing clothes or utensils. Can homoeopathy help?
Dr. Batra: You are suffering from irritant dermatitis caused by repeated direct contact with detergents that irritate your skin, making it rough and causing it to peel. This can be prevented by taking good care of your hands, not placing your hands in water for a long time, drying your hands thoroughly after washing, using protective gloves when using detergents and applying moisturising cream to keep the skin supple. I’d suggest that you take 5 pills of Graphites 30C, twice a day.

Q. My thirty-year-old husband suffers from gas and flatulence. Please guide.
Dr. Batra: Flatulence can be caused by a sedentary lifestyle, faulty eating habits and certain foods like beans and cauliflower. Ask your husband to avoid consuming gas inducing food like cabbage, broccoli and aerated drinks. Exercising or walking for 30-40 minutes daily is recommended. Include asafoetida [hing], jeera and ajwain in his diet. Also ask him to avoid eating too quickly, instead get him to have small frequent meals and drink at least 10-12 glasses of water daily. He should take 4-5 pills of Carbo Vegetabilis 30C, twice a day.