Recently, I learned of this condition affecting someone in my family. The upshot was a couple of trips to hospital. The abscess was drained and antibiotics are given. All this per NHS guidance which is here.

Mastitis is not something I have treated, but it got me looking in my books. You can always learn something. The late Dr Andrew Lockie’s Family Guide to Homeopathy is always a good place to start, and indeed he offers some guidance.

He writes the following:

Breast Abscess (mastitis) is due to milk stasis (not flowing) in the breast glands post-natally. If breast feeding, continue to do so unless the symptoms are very severe. Symptoms are redness, painful swelling in the breast, some tenderness in the armpit glands, and possibly mild fever. Homeopathic remedies (see below) are recommended as a first resort, but if they do not work see your GP who will prescribe antibiotics. If antibiotics do not subdue infection the abcess may have to be drained.

Dr Lockie’s Suggested Homeopathic Remedies for Mastitis

Under ‘self help’ he writes:

“At the first sign of pain bathe the breast in hot water. Use gravity to help drain the affected area of milk by positioning the breast and baby so that the abscess is uppermost. Apply Calendula ointment to the nipple. “

He then suggests chooising from the following homeopathic remedies (6c or 30c potency) which may be taken hourly for up to 10 doses:

Bryonia

Abscess brewing, with hardening of breast tissue and pain on the slightest movement. (Another text describes the ‘hardening’ as lumps)

(The keynote for Bryonia is ‘worse for any movement’)

Belladonna

Symptoms as above, with red streaks on the affected breast.

(The keynote for Belladonna is inflammation – redness, heat and pain)

Hepar Sulph

Pain very localised, area extremely tender, patient irritable.

(The keynote for Hepar Sulph is the tendency to suppuration)

Phytolacca

Armpit glands swollen, looking generally pale, and feeling shivery.

(The keynote for Phytolacca is its affinity for glands – in this case the milk producing glands – it is also remedy for severe throat infections affecting the glands of the throat / neck)

Silica

Nipple cracked and discharging pus, general exhaustion.

(The keynote for Silica in this context is either in aiding an abscess to mature or reducing excess suppuration – so also the remedy to take to aid healing after an abscess has been drained surgically. Calendula ointment or cream can be used in addition)

There is much in common here with skin abscesses and boils (infection of the hair follicles) where Belladonna, Hepar Sulph and Silica are all useful. Belladonna where there is inflammation and redness. Hepar Sulph where there is suppuration. Silica to promote suppuration and subsequent healing.

Homeopathic First Aid Kits

Whilst the homeopathic pharmacies can send out remedies withing 24 hours, it is best to have a small kit at home. I have written on the value of having a remedy kit before. Even if you need to go to A&E or see your GP, trying some of the remedies above may limit the infection and buy you some time. Infections rarely happen at a convenient time!

Most of the remedies above are in the first aid kits with the exception of Phytolacca which can be ordered separately.

The late Dr Jack was a GP practicing in Bromsgrove around the 1970s. He ensured all his patients had a small stock of remedies which were then available throught the NHS.

As he put it nicely, you try to find the ‘key to the lock’. If there is no result after a few doses, try another remedy (another key).

The aim is to find the remedy (key) that stimulates the immune response (unlocks). There is no hazard in taking the wrong remedy – neither ‘key’ nor ‘lock’ is broken, as he put it.

Step Back In Time

John Henry Clarke was a notable doctor and homeopath in the early 20th century. His work is still in print. The Prescriber was his personal aide-memoire and of a breast abcess, he writes:

Bryonia as soon as the first symptoms of pain or hardness come on. This, he says will often abort the process. If Bryonia fails to check it in 48h give Phytolacca. Where there is less hardness but red streaks radiating from a central point to the circumference give Belladonna. Should suppuration occur give Hepar Sulph. He also recommends Calendula ointment or bathing with warm water to which a few drops of Calendula mother tincture has been added. If the abscess has been lanced then Silica aids healing.

Perhaps 48h is a long time to wait today, but the general principles apply.

In researching this article I found a useful page from the Homeopathy UK website covering breastfeeding difficulties.

I am not called on to do much in the way of ‘acute’ prescribing (save for my self and immediate family). By ‘acute’ homeopathy means infections that are mostly self-limiting in contrast to the ‘chronic’.

The above are self-help first aid options that might help you, save you a wait in A&E and unburden the NHS.

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Needless to say I stand but on the shoulders of giants, but should you care to explore the power of homeopathy please book a free 30 minute Discovery Call via this button.

The post Homeopathy for Breast Abscess appeared first on Allan Pollock.

Energy

In my last blog I posted an image from a text book that placed different therapies on a line representing different energy states. You will find the image again below.

The physical body at the bottom left is the most dense energy state and the domain of what we know today as orthodox medicine.

Most modern medical practice follows what some test or procedure tells the physician about what is happening at the physical level. The corresponding medicines are for the most part drugs that act biochemically on the physical body. These range from the relatively simple antibiotic to increasingly complex pharmaceuticals that block or stimulate different pathways. It is a field of increasing complexity as technology reveals.

Homeopathy, in contrast sits at the top right of the line. Homeopathic medicines are potentised ultra-dilutions. There are some useful downloads available on the Helios Pharmacy website, such as Homeopathic Pharmacy for Students, if you wish to know a little more. This concept of the homeopathic remedy is controversial for some – notably those whose domain is at the other end of the spectrum.

East meets West

Eastern philosophy may have something to teach the westerm mind. The image below comes from a somewhat weighty book from the pen of Edi Bilimoria titled Unfolding Consciousness. Within you will discover the philosophical concepts of many esoteric thinkers much of which has its origin in Hindu and Buddist thought reaching back millenia. The diagram that follows comes from Volume II.

Needless to say it takes a little unraveling but if you start at the bottom and look at the box in red you will find the physical body described; the most dense energetic state. Above that in yellow and then white sits the non-material world without which the material self would not exist. In simplistic terms these are layers of interacting energetic states that sustain the physical body from conception to death.

On the left two possible constitutions are suggested, the dual and triple. The alignment with religious thought is apparent. What is key – and missing from current orthodox thinking for the most part – is this continuum from the immaterial to the material world.

Evolutionary biologist, the late Stephen Jay Gould famously stated that science and religion were two non-overlapping magisteria, a concept intended to at least reduce conflict between science and religion, but it hardly makes sense in my view.

Subtle Anatomy

The term ‘subtle anatomy’ reflects the esoteric understanding that (wo)man is more than a physical construct. The etheric body for example, serves as a sort of blueprint for the physical. The astral body – sometimes seen as a separate layer – is the home of the emotions and so forth. This continuum of energetic flow is what the visionary Dr Samuel Hahnemann, who first described the principles of homeopathic medicine, termed the sustaining vital or life force.

The implications should become clear, namely that your disease (or dis-ease) which appears to sit within your physical body, may instead have its origins in the non-material.

A notable American physiciand and homeopath from the early twentieth century James Tyler Kent wrote words to the effect that ‘your pathology is not your disease but its ultimate expession’. Might this be the reason that so much in modern medicine is about symptom management rather than true cure?

Given the subtle nature of homeopathic medicine, it seems quite likely that it acts on this subtle anatomy.

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The goal of homeopathic treatment is find and correct the root cause of illness where possible.

It is not quick fix medicine because the vital force – neither homeopath nor patient – sets the pace of healing. The word patient has meaning even if patience is a challenge in an impatient world.

Perhaps you would be interested in exploring Homeopathy for your health?

I offer a free 30 minute discovery call to allow you to investigate further.

The post Natural Medicine: Anatomy more subtle than you think appeared first on Allan Pollock.

The late and famous naturopath Jan de Vries said that people recovered from illness for hundreds of years before the advent of modern medicine, which has to be true.

Of course we are glad to have anaesthetics, antibiotics and trauma care and so forth. But we should not ignore our potential for self-healing. I touched on this subject matter some time ago.

Jan de Vries certainly reminded us of the continuing potential of natural medicine. His Ayrshire (Scotland) Clinic was almost a cottage hospital – I went there once. His patients came from far and wide.

In my last blog I referred to the book shown in the picture above. In the introductory pages, there are two concise chapters that are worthy. The first on Homeopathic Principles and the second titled Homeopathy in Context. It is the latter I wish to say a little more about.

Energy to Matter (or energy matters!)

I particularly liked this picture below, which shows various therapies in context. Note in particular the terms ENERGY and MATTER. The important point is that our physical being – flesh and bone to put it bluntly – is physical matter. This is the prime focus of western scientific (conventional) medicine. Given the complexities, medicine has become a vast industry as a quick spin through the Medscape website indicates. But it is all focussed on the physical self – on matter.

Energy is at the other end of the spectrum. Homeopathy has a vitalist philosophy. This assumes that from conception to death all living things are animated by an invisible force – that is to say energy. A concept not recognised in orthodoxy.

I suspect most people never give this a moment’s thought. But it certainly interests me, and from time to time I come back to the topic in my blogs. Here is one example. The question I’d like you to think about is how the trillions of cells in your body come to work mostly harmoniously through life?

Blueprint to Foundation

If you now look at the words in the ovals (Blueprint to Foundation), the author draws analogy with the building of a house. Given that we all are different shapes and sizes it is not unreasonable to infer some sort of blueprint, design or plan, that is you and me.

This is the etheric body, and I will come back to this next time.

To create the physical ‘you’ requires more than a plan however. Raw materials are required. Which is where vitamins, minerals, protein and carbohydrates come into play. Without these the house crumbles.

One further analogy: the body like the house needs maintenance. But the body is far is more dynamic than a house. Its systems work around the clock for three score year and ten to maintain harmony (homeostasis) – that is to say health.

Health

When all is well there is a natural flow from blueprint to foundation; from energy to matter. However, if this is disturbed disease results. The challenge of medicine is to find the root source of the disturbance and correct it. Matter matters and if you fracture a bone the physician must set the bone properly to enable repair. What about the rest?

Nutrition matters also. If you are deficient in nutrients then it is as if the cement mix is sub-standard. Things don’t hold together.

Herbal medicine sits somewhere between nutrition and modern pharmaceuticals with elements of each. The overlap dimishes as modern drugs become ever more distant from nature.

Acupuncture, particularly familiar in Traditional Chinese Medicine, is a means by which energy pathways are rebalanced. The concept of the chakras – energy centres – is particularly pertinent here.

Finally, comes homeopathy. Possibly the most subtle form of energy medicine, where energy becomes information or a pattern – acting to correct a blueprint damaged through toxins, acquired and inherited, and / or mental-emotional factors. When the blueprint is damaged, the house falls into disrepair. You can patch it at the level of matter but only for so long.

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The goal of homeopathic treatment is find and correct damage to the blueprint wherever possible.

It is not quick fix medicine because the vital force – neither homeopath nor patient – sets the pace of healing. The word patient has meaning even if patience is a challenge in an impatient world.

Perhaps you would be interested in exploring Homeopathy for your health? I offer a free 30 minute discovery call to allow you to investigate further.

The post Natural Medicine: Complementary or Alternative appeared first on Allan Pollock.

The book pictured is one from my shelf, its American author is a naturopathic doctor (N.D.) and chiropractor (D.C.). The likely first port of call for many musculoskeletal complaints is of course the chiropractor, physiotherapist or osteopath. But homeopathy can have a supporting role.

The Body Remarkable

I have written before on the the complexity of the human body. That a system of such complexity should run harmoniously for most of our life, is quite remarkable. Suffice to say that the ability of the body to monitor, and adjust to our environment exceeds the ability of any machine. There is intelligence here and it is not in any way ‘artificial’.

From a musculoskeletal perspective, Hershoff lists the following:

• Joints – hold our posture and allow us to move where we wish to go
• Ligaments – hold joints together, guide and limit their range of movement
• Muscles – opposing groups of muscles permit all our complex movements
• Tendons – are the means by which muscles attach to bones
• Cartilage – glass like lining of the ends of bones creating a smooth low-friction joint surface
• Bursa – fluid filled sacks around joints that act as cushions or lubricating pads
• Bone – an active tissue (please note) forming and remodelling constantly in response to the physical / structural stresses

Homeopathic Remedy Affinities in Musculoskeletal Cases

Looking back I see that in October of 2025 I penned a blog titled The Beneficial Use of Homeopathy in Treating Injury In that article I describe some of the commonly used homeopathic remedies for use in trauma. Note that these are mostly of plant origin. This is typical when addressing self limiting (acute) conditions. Remedies of mineral origin find greater affinity with chronic conditions (e.g. established arthritis).

Homeopathic remedies can usefully complement the various form of physical therapy. It is not by chance the the book pictured above is from the pen of a chiropractor.

However, the overarching and common goal is to stimulate a healing response.

Two Interesting (and challenging) Conditions

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is described here. It is an inflamation of a ligament like band of connective tissue running across the bottom of the foot. It can be quite a stubborn condition and in writing this I came across a clinic in Eastleigh that summarises the options.

Homeopathy is not part of their brief, but I was once told by a medical doctor / homeopath that the remedy Ledum was almost specific for this problem.

LEDUM

Ledum is another plant remedy (sometime known by the name marsh marigold). At the first aid level it is a remedy to be consider in puncture wounds – bites of an insect or animal for example. Should you get a black eye it is a good alternative to Arnica. However, it also has its place musculoskeletal conditions such as inflammation of the achilles tending, synovitis or bursitis (housemaid’s knee) and such like.

I can certainly think of a couple of cases where Plantar Fasciitis did respond to this remedy, but alas I have not found it quite as ‘specific’ as the doctor suggested.

As might be expected, the modalities of Ledum are worse for motion and standing. Rest and ice cold baths or compresses bring relief.

RUTA

In so far as differentiating between tendonitis and plantar fasciitis is not so easy, especially if the pain is focussed on the heel. Ruta (Golden Rue) has particular affinity for tendon issues. Whist this remedy is also worse for motion and standing, there is an easing of symptoms with gentle movement. Ruta unlike Ledum is better for warm applications.

There are more remedies besides, but the above would be the first to consider. You could take in the 30th centessimal potency morning and evening for a week. If there is no improvement by then try another remedy.

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Dupuyten’s Contracture

This is a curious condition where one or more fingers bend inwards towards the palm of the hand. It may be of minor inconvenience but tends to get worse over time. Surgery may eventually be necessary.

In homeopathy there are a number of potential remedies. A few are briefly summarised below.

CAUSTICUM

A mineral remedy in the potassium family. This is the first homeopathic remedy to think of where there is contraction of flexor tendons. It is in fact one of the homeopathic remedies associated with paralysis in a wider sense. Causticum has a fairly strong physchological picture as the person affected may have an idealistic nature and a strong sense of injustice. Dry cold winds aggravate.

THIOSINANIMUM

A plant remedy that is considered where the is scar tissue, perhaps as a result of injury or surgical work. It also has affinity with ‘frozen shoulder’ or adhesions (stretch pain) on any joint. That may not be the case with Dupuytren’s contrature, but its role in this conditon remains. This remedy is usually given in low potency for an extended period.

GUAIACUM

The origin of this remedy is Lignum Vitae, the most dense and hard of woods. There is contractive pain – fingers curved and stiff. This stiffness is also reflected in the mental picture where a rigidness and inflexibility may be apparent. Again used in low potencies over an extended period.

CALCIUM FLUORIDE

This is quite a significant remedy in homeopathy and associated with nodules and deposits. Arthritic nodosities (ganglions), if present, may be an indicator. There can be an unjustified fear of poverty or financial ruin in the mental picture.

Homeopathic Method

Homeopathic prescribing is always holistic. That is to say, one tries as best possible to reflect the total picture of the patient in the remedy chosen. This will include ‘modalities’ (what makes the condition better or worse), wider physical conditions and if appropriate mental / emotional characteristics. The descriptions above are by necessity brief and a more fulsome analsysis is necessary to match symptoms to remedy.

Should you need advice on recovery from some trauma, be it physical or emotional please get in touch. I offer a free half-hour discovery call which you can book via my website. Or send an email to info@allanpollock.co.uk

The post Homeopathy for Musculoskeletal Healing appeared first on Allan Pollock.

Our normal state is one of harmony. Look at the rose in the picture below (from my garden as it happens). Perfection – well that is my view! You might say the same of the child at play – look at the photo in an earlier blog.

However, we all know that roses can become sick (so too children). Perhaps due to lack of water – or some other stressor. Then the pesky aphids arrive, or maybe fungal diseases from damp weather. Look around and you will see that compared to other plants, the garden roses are coping rather better that most other plants exposed to this unusually warm and dry year.

There is a key word here, and that word is ‘Susceptibility’. Different plants have different susceptibilities. I will come back to the word later.

Sickness, Disease or Dis-ease

It is a remarkable fact that when all is well, we go about our business without any aches or pains. We forget about the inner workings of our bodies.

When health goes awry, there are – from a ‘helicopter view’ – only a limited number of possible causes:

• something acquired
• something inherited
• physical or mental / emotional trauma
• or some combination of the above

What do I mean?

Acquired

In this category you can think of anything environmental. For example a bacteria or a virus. Or some other toxin be it a pollutant (say, car exhaust fumes) or an allergen (pollen). Not to mention the self-inflicted (smoking, alcohol, fast food etc!)

Inherited

Like it or not we are all products of our parent and their parents reaching back ad infinitum. This is our DNA (genetics) but also the domain of epi-genetics. Here, I which introduce the concept of miasms on which topic I have written before. First in this article then a sequel.

Miasmatic theory is unique to homeopathy and a stroke of genius from the visionary Dr Samuel Hahnemann, who set down the precepts of homeopathic medicine.

Trauma

Here I am thinking primarily of mental / emotional trauma. But also physical trauma in so far as it impacts on the emotions – this might be termed ‘shock’ or ‘fright’. You may suffer physical trauma in, say, a fall but likely also experience being ‘shaken-up’ by the event.

Indeed the emotional effects of the psychic disturbance may outlast the physical injury, sometimes for years.

‘Never been well since’, is an important concept in Homeopathy.

In this way ‘trauma’ can also unsettle a miasmatic inheritance, which had been quiescent up to this point in time.

Pathology and Disease

Dr James Tyler Kent was a notable homeopath from Chicago in the early years of the twentieth century. His lectures on Homeopathic Philosophy are still available in print and online. He makes the remarkable observation (I paraphrase) that your pathology (physical ailments) is not your disease (or ‘dis-ease’) but its ultimate expression.

Food for thought, and potentially key to understanding a patient’s case.

Susceptibility

I now wish to return to this important word, Susceptibility. In a way it is a fairly obvious concept, yet not much consdered in orthodox medicine – at least not at the level of the individual.

As for roses so for humans (and all living things) – we respond to different stressors in different ways. We all have different susceptibilities. Some people have allergies, others do not. Some expect respiratory infections every winter, others do not. Some get migraines, others do not and so on.

Our childhood years are important to building immunity. Playing in the mud is no bad thing; nor a little sickness.

During my stay in Calcutta (while attending Drs Banerjea study course in Classical Homeopathy), the number one rule was “don’t eat the street food” however tempting! Needless to say, our immune systems take time to acclimatise. In other words we are more susceptible to food poisoning than the locals.

To my amusement, whilst on the river (Hooghly) some locals jumped off and into the river, then swam to shore unscathed. Though I swim reasonably well, I doubt I would have survived the experience without some gastric upset!

Understanding these susceptibilites is another of the keys to homeopathic prescribing.

Dr Clare Craig – ‘Spiked’

The recent pandemic demonstrated the principle of Susceptibility perfectly.

Oxbridge educated consultant pathologist Dr Clare Craig has recently written a book titled ‘Spiked’ (drawing on the ‘spike protein’ nature of the Sars-cov2 virus).

The official line was that covid was a novel virus, to which none had immunity (hence the lockdowns etc.). But as she eloquently argues, this was far from the truth; just one of may points where she courageously challenges ‘officialdom’.

Stop and think. From the earliest days of the pandemic, many more experienced moderate symptoms, than severe. That is not to deny severe cases and those who sadly died. So ‘susceptibility’ was writ large, but ignored. Her carefully researched book (1300 references!) is a worthy read.

Despite, claims of vulnerability, the immune system of the human body is exceptionally adaptable. This adaptability means that our species, homo-sapiens, has managed to populate almost every corner of land in the planet.

Our ability to heal should not then be underestimated.

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Perhaps you would care to explore whether homeopathy can help with your health? Homeopathy is a gentle healing art with a sound philosophical basis about which you can read more on this website

If so, please book a free 30 minute Discovery Call via this button.

I also give talks. Should you be in an organisation that would be interested a short talk (usually free) – tailored to your needs – please email me at allan@allanpollock.co.uk.

The post Why We Get Sick from a Homeopathic Perspective: Allan Pollock appeared first on Allan Pollock.

What is Sun or Heatstroke?

Dr Andrew Lockie in his book, The Family Guide to Homeopathy, says that sun or heatstroke is caused by excessive fluid and salt loss. This leads to dehydration and exhaustion.

Unsurprisingly, alcohol or recreational drugs are aggravating factors. So heatstroke is not limited to the beach; think of summer music festivals. Fortunately there are usually first aiders or paramedics on hand.

Heatstoke victims complain of feeling hot, headaches, dizziness, and nausea; breathing may be rapid. They may suffer from cramps. Although the face may be flushed, the skin remains dry.

Basic First Aid

The first aid priority is to bring the temperature down.

So get the causalty into the shade and fan them or sponge with water. Dr Lockie suggest undressing the casualty (respecting privacy of course) and wrapping them in a wet sheet – this cools the skin as the water in the sheet evaporates.

My more recent (Red Cross / St John’s) first aid manual still says the same thing, adding that you keep the sheet wet by adding more water. When the temperature of the casualty stabilises, replace the wet sheet with some light dry clothing.

Give only water to drink with a very little salt added (just half a teaspoon to half a litre of water – too much salt risks vomiting and more fluid loss). Here is another formulation from the NHS – but more suited to the bedside if someone has lost a lot of fluids typically through diarrhoa / vomiting (food poisoning on holiday, say – not uncommon).

According to the first aid manual, heatstroke can develop with little warning. The victim could become unresponsive or may be aggitated and uncooperative, making application of first aid as above, difficult.

As ever, theory is one thing; practice another.

If at all concerned, get help by calling 999.

Not much of homeopathic relevance here, but the remedy Cuprum (copper) has value where there are muscle cramps.

Heatstroke Headache

Convention would be to take paracetamol. According to this article on medino.com paracetamol usage amounts to a startling average of 70 tablets per person in the UK! As a painkiller (analgesic) it does what it says on the packet, but it is not curative.

There are a number of homeopathic remedies for headache.

These can also help with migraine symptoms, but this is beyond first aid and warrants more thorough investigation.

However, remember in homeopathy we prescribe for the person, and not the condition. Unfortunately, ‘what do I take for X’ is not so easily answered.

Still, there are certain common remedies found in homeopathic first aid kits (worth packing when you go on holiday).

First Aid Remedies

First up is Belladonna, a remedy whose origin is the deadly nightshade plant. Of course the manner of preparation of homeopathic medicines removes any toxicity.

In wider use it is an excellent remedy for fever in children. The Keynote is HOT. Very intense headache, typically in the forehead and worse for motion, noise. Red face, dilated pupils. Potentially quite violent even convulsive.

A close cousin is Gluonoine, whose origin in Nitro-glycerin, again in homeopathic potency. The ‘explosive’ picture (hence TNT or tri-nitroglycerin) needs little explanation. Throbbing in the head and temples, sense of fullness and so on. It is not a remedy in pharmacy first aid kits, so I will leave it there.

Nux Vomica, is commonly in remedy kits and is one to consider where over indulgence is part of the picture – alcohol, coffee and so forth.

Two others to consider are Bryonia and Gelsemium, both of plant origin and commonly in remedy kits.

Bryonia has a splitting headache with nausea, that gets worse with the slightest movement. Indeed ANY symptom is worse for movement – a keynote.

Whereas Belladonna is intolerant of any pressure, Bryonia is the opposite (because pressure keeps the suffering parts still). In a wider context Bryonia is often of value in chest complaints

Gelsemium, has the characteristic sensation of weakness, dizzyness and droopyness (e.g. eyelids). There is a bursting sensation in the head and eyeballs. Gelsemium is also an influenza remedy as the above mentioned symptoms might suggest to you.

Sunburn

It is easy to get caught out. Sunny days like last week present – hopefully – an obvious risk. On the other hand, I remember sitting on a beach in Northumbria of all places, on a warm but overcast day. No sign of the sun – no sunburn risk? Not so… the rays penetrate the clouds as I found out later when back at the holiday cottage in the evening!

Dr Lockie writes, “sensible sunbathing means exposing yourself to the sun gradually so that your skin has time to produce more melanin. Sunbathe 15 minutes on the first day, then increase sun time by 15 minutes each day”. Of course use suntan lotions with the appropriate screening factor.

If you do get suburn there is a homeopathic cream that contains Urtica urens (from the stinging nettle) and Calendula (marigold) – commonly sold as Utrical that is soothing.

Urtica urens can also be purchased as a mother tincture from homeopathic pharmacies. A few drops in a little water which is then applied on the affected areas can soothe. Also a useful medicine to have in the kitchen to ease minor burns and scalds.

Aloe vera gel is another possibility

Staying Cool

I recently had a couple of days in Paris with my wife. Fortunately, a week before the recent heatwave. But temperatures were still in the 30s. One of the blessings of cathedrals is that they are always cool! Below is a picture of the magnificently restored Notre Dame – once black now white!

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If care to explore whether homeopathy can help with your health, please book a free 30 minute Discovery Call via this button.

Should you be in an organisation that would be interested a short talk (usually free) – tailored to your needs – please email me

The post Homeopathy for Sunburn and Sunstroke appeared first on Allan Pollock.

What are Hormones

Hormones are the chemical messengers of the body. The endocrine system is the collective name, to include the principal components – the hypothalamus; pituitary; thyroid; parathyroid; pancreas; adrenals; ovaries and testes.

Man, Woman and Child

The endocrine system affects us all. The female system is rather more complex than the male due to the menstrual cycle and potential for child bearing. Consequently the female is more sensitive to hormonal disturances. As you are well aware, period pains, menopausal symptoms and associated mood swings get a regular airing in the media. Not to mention debilitating problems such as polycystic ovaries, endometriosis and so on.

In my wider family there has recently been a birth, a process where the endocrine system is in full swing, so too the emotions that follow. It got me looking in my study notes once more.

But major stages of development, such as puberty are common to both sexes, with acne being one common example, equally applicable to both sexes. And we’ll doubtless see plenty of male agression (some female too) from the spectators in the stands at the World Cup soon to occupy our TV screens over the coming weeks.

Homeopathy

You will find the homeopathic approach explained in many of my blogs, one recent example is here.

Homeopathy does not approach health on the basis of taking ‘this’ pill for ‘that’ condition. Homeopathy does not focus on a ‘condition’ or its label. Rather it looks at the person as an individual, and their circumstances in the round.

Symptoms are unwanted, but they tell a story. They reflect the body’s best efforts to restore balance and the job of the homeopathic remedy is to support that process.

A painkiller, for example, does what it says on the tin, and may be fast acting (for a while), but it is not curative. In contrast, homeopathy, works with the body with the intention of bringing lasting improvement.

Homeopathy for Hormonal Complaints

The remedy Sepia, originates from the ink from the common cuttlefish (hence the brown sepiatone of old pictures – my first school class photos included!). It is a major homeopathic remedy for female hormonal issues, though the symptom picture initially came from a man – an artist using sepia ink, who used his tongue to shape the brush.

Cuttlefish use the ink defensively to deceive its predator.

Sepia, says Dr Roger Morrison, is one of the top three remedies given to women. Key characteristics are an indifference to loved ones, and to the opposite sex.

Old homeopathic books from a century ago, speak of a woman worn down by life. A life of household chores, and a demanding brood.

The world has moved on since then. I once recall listening to a speaker who suggested that the small electic motor was the greatest female emancipator. This is certainly true in regard to the washing machine, for example. But the demands of motherhood still remain, instead being schools runs or after school activities and so on.

Catherine Coulter, is an American homeopath with several books to her name giving portraits of homeopathic remedies. She says the Sepia type can “lash out at her children and especially her husband!”

The classic Sepia ‘type’ is tall, slim and athletic – indeed always better for movement and fresh air. This rather parallels the characteristics of the cuttlefish, an animal that swims gracefully, and attacks its prey with great ferocity.

What else…

Close to Sepia comes Folliculinum, which is a homeopathically potentised oestrogen (a hormone). This woman may feel drained, or feels controlled by another and has lost her individuality. Betweeen ovulation and menses her symptoms are worse, improving after the menses.

Lachesis, is another remedy where the symptoms with the commencement of the menses. Here, the mental picture is very different, being aggressive, intense and envious. This is a homeopathically potentised snake venom.

Finally, I mention Pulsatilla. The origin this time is a pretty flower. The central essence of this remedy is ‘changeability with softness’. This woman may feel forsaken and seeks consolation. Irregularity in menses or painful menses are characteristic.

Men and Children

But what about men and children you ask? The quick answer is that all the above have applicability in men and children, though the affinity less apparent. The male Sepia for example may be lacking in motivation, and weak in spirit. Given that sexuality is a continuum rather than black and white, Sepia and Pulsatilla males tend to have a stronger feminine side.

The Sepia child on the other hand is quite alive (not worn down) but has symptoms of over sensitivity, stresss and fear.

By the same token a generally perceived male remedy such as Nux vomica – the typical ‘Type A personality’ – can apply to the female. This is the competitive, workalcoholic who strives forward on any type of stimulant from coffee upwards. Nux vomica is a black type (i.e. strongly indicated) remedy in both the female and male chapters of the text books.

‘Nux’ children are highly competitive, and bad losers. Potentially they are affected by gastric problems like colic or colitis.

Possibilities

The foregoing was but an introduction, but I hope you get the general idea. Homeopathy for hormonal complaints or anything else for that matter, is not not an easy subject. Nor is it defined by protocols. Dr Samuel Hahnemann in his Organon of Medicine, aphorism two, sets down the challenge:

“The highest ideal of therapy is to restore health, rapidly, gently, permanently; to remove and destroy the whole disease, in the shortest, surest, least harmful way, according to clearly comprehensible principles.”

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Hahnemann, had a touch of genius that evades most of us. But what he wrote has stood the test of time.

If you have a health problem unresolved or not resolved to your satisfaction, why not try homeopathy? The first step is to book a free 30 minute discovery call where we can chat and see how homeopathic treatment can help you.

The post Homeopathy for Hormonal Complaints appeared first on Allan Pollock.

Dr Master’s topic at the conference was cancer. At this point it is important to state that the Society abides by the UK Cancer Act 1939, an Act of Parliament that sets down certain restrictions. What follows is a succinct summary:

“Complementary and alternative practitioners can advertise their services to cancer patients, but they must explicitly state that their therapies do not treat the cancer itself and are not a substitute for conventional hospital treatments (source: CNHC).

Note also that Dr Master is an exceptionally well qualified medical doctor who working within a hospital setting.

The purpose in briefly sharing his achievements is (1) to show the potential of homeopathic medicine which (2) to poses the question as to why homeopathy (in general and not just in cancer treatment) is excluded from NHS practice.

No single medical approach has all the answers but as the saying goes, ‘the mind is like a parachute, it works best when it is open!’

Introducing Dr Farok Master

‘Master’ is not actually his family name, rather one inherited from his father who was also a physician of some standing (in conventional medicine, I believe and not homepathy) to the extent that he was known as the ‘Master’. Medicine runs in his family.

Dr Farok Master gained his LCEH (Licentiate of the Court of Examiners in Homeopathy) at the end of 1979 after the necessary period of study at Bombay Homeopathic College. He was awarded 1st class in all subjects and also a medalist. He attained his MD in 1994 and more recently successfully completed his PhD in ‘Cancer Management using Homeopathy’.

As an aside, it is worth mentioning that in India student may choose to study conventional (western scientific model) or homeopathic medicine; both qualifications being of equivalent standing.

During his long career he has established many homeopathic clinics in the out-patient departments in various hospitals. He is the author of many books and is well recognised as a gifted teacher and lecturer, skills which have taken him to many parts of the world. A more comprehensive profile may be found on his website.

The Application of Classical Homeopathy to Cancer Cases

Dr Master informed his audience that the conventional treatment of cancer works fundamentally at the local level. That is to say, its focus in on the physical symptoms which are typically addressed by surgery, chemotherapy and / or radiotherapy.

However, Classical Homeopathy, takes a wider view, one that goes beyond the pure physical symptoms. It is of particular note that Homeopathy seeks to understand the person and not just the diagnosis. Dr Master warned about being overly focussed on labels, and theories.

His general approach in the consultation is to find out from the patient, his relatives, friends and events of changes in that person’s life that may have increased that person’s susceptibility. Cells having the potential to become cancerous are common, but a healthy immune system destroys then preventing proliferation.

Susceptibility: A Neglected Concept?

Dr Master reminded the audience of the importance of ‘susceptibility’. It is not a common term in modern orthodox medical practice. Yet, we all recognise our susceptibilities to some extent. Maybe you are prone to chest infections or headaches or digestive problems.

As I have written previously, Homeopathy is ‘vitalist’. That is to say that an invisible life giving ‘vital’ force exists. It is the conductor that holds the trillions of cell that make out bodies in harmony. However, should this life force offer imperfect resistance, disease can result. Cancer is but one outcome of dis-ease (the word us split intentionally).

Logically then, there be a reason for this reduction in resistance to challenge. A reason for the susceptibility.

‘My Resistance is Low’

My late father introduced be to Hoagy Carmichael, who wrote the melody for a popular song in the early 1950s for a popular song with the above title. Not much relevance beyond the words, but a lighter note…if you pardon the pun.

So what adversely impacts our resistance?

It could be some life event; some shock to the system. Dr Master mentioned, childhood trauma, relationship issues, emotional effects from grief to hatred. Relevant here is the work of the famous Swiss psychologist Carl Jung, whose theories Dr Master finds complement homeopathy.

It could be inheritance, and here Hahnemann’s concept of miasm may have relevance.

And it could be lifestyle factors which are clearly important – what Hahnemann termed ‘maintaining causes’ – our ‘drugs’ (tobacco, alcohol etc) are obvious examples. In India some people eat heavily spice food to excess, says Dr Master.

Different factors (emotional, inherited, lifestyle) impact different organs in his experience, he finds.

Needless to say, some interaction between these possibilties is likely. The proverbial ‘straw to the camels back’.

In his experience, the genesis of the cancer may extend back in time many years; anything from a couple of years to a couple of decades.

Classical Homeopathy and Cancer

Consequently, the imperative in Classical Homeopathy is to consider all of the above. To focus on the signs, symptoms and susceptibilities. The goal: to strengthen the ‘vital’ life preserving force and reduce susceptibility.

When this is achieved, a revitalised life force can as good a job, if not better, than the surgeon or oncologist. That is Dr Master’s argument. One he demonstrated in the cases presented.

Clearly alongside successes there are failures. But that is true under the conventional model also.

Proof of Pudding…

Dr Master presented several cases of remarkable cures. He was able to share life stories and medical data to the extent that patient confidentially allows in a closed meeting. Clearly, on a website I have less freedom, but mention the following:

• A young man of just 19 years with a brain tumour (right thalmic pilomyxoid astrocytoma). His tumour had been operated on but returned, growing to the point that it pressed on the optic nerve causing near blindness. After treatment his sight was restored and the tumour gone
• A tumour on the neck verterbrae deemed inoperable due to the high risk of damage (paralysis) to the spinal cord. The tumour completely disappeared without any surgery other treatment
• A quite elderly patient with a huge growth that caused the near collapse of one lung. The patient had been given days to live (Dr Master – who is quite witty – asked whom she had seen – ‘an astrologer?’). The tumour completely disappeared under his treatment.

It is important to say that all of the above required steady patient treatment over many months. Nonetheless they demonstrated potential.

Takeaway

All the above is well above my capabilities, and probably that of most in the audience. But in the early 20th century notable homeopaths in the UK, such as Dr James Compton Burnett, and Dr John H Clarke and more at the then Royal London Homeopathic Hospital were treating cancer with some success.

The importance of Dr Master’s work extends beyond the above impressive cases and to the importance and continuing validity of the classical homeopathic approach set down by Dr Samuel Hahnemann in his ‘Organon of Medicine’ some 200 years ago.

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Perhaps you would care to explore whether homeopathy can help with your health?

If so, why not book a FREE 30 minute Discovery Call via this button.

Should you be in an organisation that would be interested a short talk (usually free) – tailored to your needs – please email me at allan@allanpollock.co.uk.

The post Society of Homeopaths Conference – Dr Farok Master appeared first on Allan Pollock.

This is a subject I come back to from time to time. Back in 2023 I wrote an article titled Family Care with Homeopathy which took inspiration from the work of the late Dr Alastair Jack, one time general practitioner in the Bromsgrove area. He retired in 1980. He made sure that his patients all had a small stock of common homeopathic remedies. This was mutually beneficial as he received fewer out-of hours-calls. Today, this would mean fewer 111 calls or trips to A&E.

Kits and Books

In what seems now to be a simpler age, Dr Jack could write an NHS prescription for his patient’s ‘war chest’ but alas that is no longer possible, but homeopathic pharmacies have kits containing most of the remedies Dr Jack recommended. Costing between £30 and £60, they should keep for a decade and more (despite regulation expiry dates) if looked after properly .

There are also some handy guides costing under £10.

Principles of Prescribing – Similars

Remedy selection is based on analogy. The word homeopathy means similar suffering. Every homeopathic remedy has a picture – mental/emotional; general, and physical. This picture is matched to that of the remedy – mental/emotional; general, and physical.

How, you might ask can a remedy have a picture? Well, homeopathic remedies are tested on healthy humans (not animals) through which the picture emerges (this is called a ‘proving’). Additionally, for the commonly used remedies, decades of clinical experience enhance our knowledge of these pictures.

Illness is characterised by deviation from the norm. It is fairly obvious that when we get ill or hurt ourselves, our demeanor changes. Maybe we go quiet, or irritable – that’s on the ‘mental/emotional’ plane.

The ‘physical’ is obvious – we have a cough or bruise or rash etc.

‘General’ is a little harder to explain – but it is ‘normal you’ and deviations from ‘normal you’. That could be reation to temperature or food preferences or times of the day.

Principles of Prescribing – Quantity.

The best way of thinking about a homepathic remedy is as information. Consider it as an instruction or pattern that generates a response at cellular level.

I have described the manner of manufacture before, but suffice to say that homeopathic remedies are ultra-dilutions. To think in terms of biochemical medicines – be it Aspirin, Paracetamol and more – is a mistake.

Using the analogy of information, quantity (of a single dose) is not very important. Suppose the ‘information’ in one pill is ‘heal my bruise’. Taking 20 pills (at the same time) is the same message as taking one. (So if your child decides to take a bottle full – because he likes the sugar that the pills are made from – or feed it to the goldfish – no harm will result. You cannot overdose, in the manner of taking a bottle of paracetamol – which needless to say would be an emergency).

In short, Homeopathic medicines are very safe.

Principles of Prescribing – Frequency and Duration

However, frequency of dose is important. The body may need reminding but you don’t want to nag! So, if you or your child gets a sudden fever, you take the remedy every 5 – 15 minutes according to the severity, and then if there is some improvement go to hourly or three times a day and so on. When you are clearly on the mend – STOP. The body has got the message and will do the rest.

If the condition is less dramatic, coming on slowly – then start with two or three times a day. A cut or bruise or healing a sprain or fracture take time.

In most cases there should be no need for the remedy after 5-7 days maybe two weeks at a push if it is a slow healing issue (for example, fracture after properly set). And if there is no improvement in a few hours, then think about changing to another remedy. As Dr Jack said, you are looking for ‘the key to the lock’. If there is no change after a few doses – retake the case and try another remedy.

Please note, ‘improvement’ does NOT mean 100% better, it could be just a percentage change (less fever, more energy, less pain etc).

Ultimately, the homeopathic remedy is a stimulus to the body to cure itself. The pace of cure is set by the body.

Babies

For a baby you can crush a remedy, of better stll place the remedy in a tumbler with a few tablespoons of water and stir for a few seconds, then give a teaspoonful to the baby. The pill does not have to fully dissolve as the remedy which is absorbed onto the pill transfers to the water. You can then cover the tumbler until the next dose. Stir before each subsequent dose.

Following my analogy of information. The dose is the same be it for adult or baby (or elephant and mouse for that matter!).

The first remedies where there is fever are likely to be Aconite or Belladonna; possibly Chamomilla (teething).

Homeopathic Remedies for Common Ailments – Respiratory

Following Dr Jack’s guidance, Aconite is a good opening move. For fever, for croup, for any sudden onset of illness. The child appears frightened or may have suffered a recent shock. A close second is Belladonna. Here there is less fear but burning heat and even delirium or anger / rage. Potentially useful in earache where the above symptoms are apparent.

Note that both Aconite and Belladonna have sudden onset. However, if the onset is slow and the patient listless, consider Gelsemium. For Dr Jack, this was number one for influenza.

Pulsatilla may be considered were there is much catarrh. Where the patient is chesty think of Phosphorus.

Homeopathic Remedies for Common Ailments – Gastric

Anytime there is sickness and diarrhoea think of Arsenicum album. One remedy to take with you on holiday should you ‘catch’ a tummy bug. The patient is likely to be chilly and restless.

This is also a remedy for respiratory distress (asthmatic) demonstating that homeopathic remedies usually have affinity beyond one bodily system.

Nux Vomica might be considered with overindulgence. And Carbo Vegetabilis where there is bloating and wind, or a state of collapse and need for air (again asthmatic).

Homeopathic Remedies for Common Ailments – Pain and Headache

Dr Jack suggested Bryonia for headaches and pains that are worse for any movement. In fact, ‘worse for movement’ is a keynote to prescribing this remedy.

For teething babies and toddlers it is Chamomilla that comes to the fore. The child must be carried and jogged will throw away in anger any toy handed to it. It is a temper tantrum remedy.

Homeopathic Remedies for Common Ailments – Trauma

The classic remedy is Arnica. NOT for cuts but bruising from some blunt force. For bruises, sprains, crushed fingers etc. If there is shock then give a few doses of Aconite first.

For cuts, Calendula and Hypericum have antiseptic and nerve healing properties. They can be taken as remedies but more commonly used as a cream or as tincture (few drops added to water which is then used to bathe the wound).

The above is but an overview and the books mentioned go into more detail. Useful to have, in my opinion, especially when it can be difficult to get help quickly. There is never any harm in giving a remedy whilst you are waiting to get help. Even in ‘nil by mouth’ situations a teaspoon of remedy in water as described (see Babies) barely counts.

Beyond First Aid

The potential of homeopathic medicine extends well beyond first aid. Perhaps you would care to explore whether homeopathy can help with your health? If so, please book a free 30 minute Discovery Call via this button.

I also give talks. Should you be in an organisation that would be interested a short talk (usually free) – tailored to your needs – please email me at allan@allanpollock.co.uk.

The post Homeopathic Remedies for Common Ailments appeared first on Allan Pollock.

Homeopathy UK are a registered charity working primarily in support of the Faculty of Homeopathy (the medical doctors who are also qualified in homeopathic medicine). But they also work closely with the Society of Homeopaths, my registration body. The also run a number of charitable clinics in various parts of the UK (the nearest to here being in Winchester).

Celebration

Homeopathy has a long history. When the NHS was established in 1947 the homeopathy and the homeopathic hospitals were recognised and incorporated into the Service. Homeopathic practise has had a long and honourable history in the UK and long supported by the Royal Family. King Charles is Patron of the Faculty, for example.

Here is a short video shown at the event: From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Practice.

There have always been critics. As I have covered in previous articles, this stems from the domination of the western scientific model. None doubt the validity of, and scientific advances in medicine. But there is more than one way of looking at a problem.

Former MP David Tredinnick and supporter of homeopathic medicine was an attendee. In the past he has rightly said that – as in India – homeopathy has a valid role to play working alongside conventional medicine. Each can play to its strengths.

It was Indian drummers who welcomed guests – what a volume but a great start to the evening!

Artifacts

Away from the hustle and bustle, interesting artifacts from the early years of homeopathy were displayed

Homeopathy Inspired High Tea

The High Tea tool inspiration from three countries. Germany, the birthplace of Dr Samuel Hahnemann who in his Organon of Medicine first set down the principles of Homeopathic Medicine. India, a country of 1.5 billion citizens and 300,000 homeopaths. And lastly the UK with its long contribution to homeopathic medicine.

Congratulations

Congratulations and thanks are certainly due to Homeopathy – UK CEO Monica Price and her team for organising this most remarkable event.

Homeopathy deserves to be recognised. It is a medical system with a strong heritage which has done good work in the past and will continue to do going forward.

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No single system of medicine has all the answers to the complexities of the human mind and body. Should you wish to explore how homeopathy might help you or your loved ones, please book a free Discovery Call and we can have a chat.

The post Homeopathy UK – Celebration appeared first on Allan Pollock.