Glossary of Homeopathic and medical terms

A

• Acid Reflux
  A condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, and regurgitation.

• Aconitum Napellus
  A homeopathic remedy derived from the plant aconite, used to treat conditions like anxiety, panic attacks, shock, and acute physical complaints that come on suddenly.

• Acupressure
  A traditional Chinese medicine technique involving the application of pressure to specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve pain.

• Acute Illness
  An illness that develops suddenly and is usually severe but short-lived.

• Ailment
  A general term for any kind of sickness or condition that affects the body.

• Allopathy
  A traditional system of medicine, often referred to as conventional or Western medicine, that uses drugs or surgery to treat symptoms or conditions.

• Allopathy vs Homeopathy
  While allopathy focuses on symptomatic treatment with drugs and surgery, homeopathy treats the whole person, aiming to stimulate the body’s natural healing ability through highly diluted substances.

B

• Bach Flower Remedies
  A form of alternative medicine developed by Dr. Edward Bach, focusing on using flower extracts to treat emotional states, such as fear, anxiety, and depression.

• Bile
  A digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps break down fats in the small intestine.

• Bismuth Subnitrate
  A homeopathic remedy often used to treat digestive complaints like nausea, vomiting, and indigestion, particularly when these symptoms are linked to stress or anxiety.

• Biofeedback
  A method of controlling physiological functions such as heart rate or blood pressure by using electronic monitoring to provide real-time feedback.

C

• Calcium Carbonicum
  A homeopathic remedy made from calcium carbonate, used to treat conditions such as joint pain, stiffness, and weak bones, as well as digestive complaints.

• Chronic Illness
  A long-lasting condition that can be controlled but not cured, such as diabetes, asthma, or chronic fatigue syndrome.

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
  A condition characterized by extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest and may be accompanied by other symptoms like headaches, sore throat, and muscle pain.

• Cineraria Maritima
  A homeopathic remedy used primarily for eye conditions, especially for cataracts or other eye diseases that affect the lens.

D

• Daphne Indica
  A homeopathic remedy used for conditions that involve burning, swelling, or inflammation, particularly those involving the skin or joints.

• Dengue Fever
  A viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, characterized by high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and bleeding.

• Detoxification
  The process of removing toxins from the body, often through natural methods like fasting, herbal remedies, or homeopathic treatments.

• Diabetes Mellitus
  A chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from either the body’s inability to produce insulin or the inability to use it effectively.

• Dilution
  In homeopathy, the process of repeatedly diluting a substance in water or alcohol and shaking it (succussion) to enhance its healing properties while reducing toxicity.

E

• Echinacea
  A herb commonly used in both traditional and homeopathic medicine to boost the immune system, especially during cold and flu seasons.

• Eczema
  A condition in which the skin becomes inflamed, red, and itchy. It can be triggered by various factors such as allergies, irritants, or stress.

• Elimination Diet
  A method used to identify food allergies or intolerances by removing certain foods from the diet and reintroducing them gradually.

• Emotional Balance
  In homeopathy, emotional balance refers to a state of harmony in which a person is not overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or depression, with remedies designed to restore this balance.

• Essential Oils
  Highly concentrated plant extracts used for therapeutic purposes, often used in aromatherapy to relieve stress, pain, or other conditions.

F

• Fever
  An elevated body temperature, often a response to infection or illness, which helps the body fight pathogens.

• Folic Acid
  A type of B vitamin (B9) that is important for cell division and the formation of DNA, particularly essential during pregnancy to prevent birth defects.

• Gelsemium
  A homeopathic remedy often used to treat conditions characterized by weakness, fatigue, and trembling, especially when linked to stress or anxiety.

• Glandular Fever
  Also known as infectious mononucleosis, it’s caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and is characterized by fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.

H

• Homeopathy
  A system of alternative medicine that treats illnesses with highly diluted substances that cause similar symptoms in healthy individuals. It operates on the principle of “like cures like.”

• Hypertension
  High blood pressure, a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high, which can lead to heart disease or stroke.

• Hyperthyroidism
  A condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms like weight loss, rapid heart rate, and anxiety.

• Hepatitis
  Inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by viruses, alcohol use, or certain medications. Symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

I

• Ipecacuanha
  A homeopathic remedy made from the root of the ipecacuanha plant, often used for nausea and vomiting, particularly when these symptoms are associated with digestive upset or motion sickness.

• Indigestion (Dyspepsia)
  A condition in which the stomach becomes upset, often causing bloating, heartburn, and discomfort after eating.

• Immunotherapy
  A treatment designed to enhance the body’s immune system to fight diseases like cancer, allergies, or autoimmune conditions.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  A common digestive disorder causing symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.

J

• Jaundice
  A condition in which the skin and the whites of the eyes turn yellow due to excess bilirubin in the blood, often indicating liver problems.

• Joint Pain
  Pain, stiffness, or swelling in one or more joints. It can be caused by injury, arthritis, or other conditions like bursitis or gout.

K

• Kali Bichromicum
  A homeopathic remedy used for conditions like sinus congestion, heavy discharge, and conditions where the mucus membranes are involved, such as with respiratory issues.

• Knee Pain
  Pain that occurs in the knee joint, which can be caused by injury, arthritis, or overuse of the joint.

L

• Lachesis
  A homeopathic remedy used primarily for circulatory issues, including varicose veins, and for symptoms of menopause or hormonal imbalances.

• Liver Detox
  A process of cleansing the liver to remove toxins and improve its function. Common methods include fasting, herbal remedies, and homeopathic treatments.

• Lupus
  An autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage in organs and joints.

M

• Magnesia Phosphorica
  A homeopathic remedy used for cramps, spasms, and muscle pain, particularly in the abdomen or limbs.

• Mind-Body Connection
  The concept that mental health and physical health are deeply interconnected, and mental disturbances can manifest as physical ailments, and vice versa.

• Melatonin
  A hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is often used as a supplement to improve sleep quality or treat jet lag.

N

• Nux Vomica
  A homeopathic remedy made from the seeds of the Strychnos nux-vomica tree, commonly used to treat digestive issues, particularly constipation, bloating, and nausea, often related to overindulgence in food or alcohol.

• Neuralgia
  Pain along a nerve, often sharp and shooting, which may occur due to nerve irritation or damage.

• Nausea
  A sensation of unease or discomfort in the stomach, often accompanied by the urge to vomit.

• Natrium Muriaticum
  A homeopathic remedy used to treat conditions related to water retention, such as bloating, as well as emotional issues like grief, depression, and anxiety.

O

• Osteoarthritis
  A form of arthritis characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.

• Oscillococcinum
  A homeopathic remedy used primarily for flu-like symptoms such as chills, body aches, and fever.

• Onions (Allium Cepa)
  Used in homeopathy, particularly for conditions like colds, runny nose, and allergy symptoms. It can be helpful for treating symptoms like watery eyes and nasal discharge.

• Osteopathy
  A medical practice that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, emphasizing the role of the body’s structure in health and disease. Osteopathic physicians use manual manipulation to treat health conditions.

P

• Phosphorus
  A homeopathic remedy used for conditions such as respiratory issues, bleeding, and digestive disorders. It is particularly beneficial for conditions related to weakness and fatigue.

• Psoriasis
  A chronic autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to scaly, red patches on the skin, often treated in homeopathy with remedies like Graphites or Sulphur.

• Panic Attacks
  Episodes of intense fear or anxiety that occur suddenly and without warning. Homeopathy offers remedies like Aconitum and Gelsemium for managing these attacks.

• Pulsatilla
  A homeopathic remedy used for various conditions, particularly emotional or physical complaints that are better with gentle motion and worse in warm rooms. It’s commonly used for colds, digestive issues, and menstrual irregularities.

Q

• Quercus Robur
  A homeopathic remedy derived from the oak tree, used for conditions associated with exhaustion, especially after illness, or where there is weakness and a need for rebuilding vitality.

R

• Rhus Toxicodendron
  A homeopathic remedy made from poison ivy, often used for musculoskeletal issues such as arthritis, joint pain, and sprains, especially when the pain is aggravated by initial movement but improves with continued motion.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
  An autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and eventual joint damage. It is typically treated with anti-inflammatory medications, but homeopathic remedies like Rhus Toxicodendron and Causticum may help with symptom management.

• Radium Bromatum
  A homeopathic remedy used for treating conditions related to radiation exposure or symptoms following chemotherapy. It can also be helpful for mental exhaustion or depression related to physical illnesses.

• Repertory
  A homeopathic reference book that lists symptoms and the corresponding remedies. It is used by practitioners to select the best remedy for an individual’s symptoms based on the totality of their condition.

S

• Sulphur
  A homeopathic remedy made from sulfur, commonly used for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, as well as for digestive issues, fevers, and conditions marked by heat and irritation.

• Silicea
  A homeopathic remedy made from silica, often used for chronic conditions related to the skin, bones, and connective tissue, such as acne, brittle nails, and back pain.

• Sodium Chloride
  A homeopathic remedy made from common table salt, used for conditions involving fluid balance in the body and for emotional complaints such as feelings of insecurity.

• Sleep Apnea
  A condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. While not commonly treated with homeopathy alone, remedies like Coffea Cruda and Nux Vomica may help with symptoms related to sleep disturbances.

• Sinusitis
  Inflammation of the sinuses, typically caused by infection, allergens, or irritants. Homeopathic remedies such as Kali Bichromicum and Hepar Sulphuris can help relieve symptoms like sinus pressure, nasal congestion, and facial pain.

T

• Thyroid Disorders
  Conditions that affect the thyroid gland, including hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Homeopathy offers remedies like Lycopus, Iodium, and Calcarea Carbonica to help balance thyroid function.

• Thuja Occidentalis
  A homeopathic remedy made from the Western Red Cedar tree, used to treat conditions related to warts, skin issues, and persistent infections, as well as for general weakness.

• Trauma
  Physical or emotional injury that can result in long-term effects. Homeopathic remedies like Arnica and Hypericum are often used after traumatic injuries or shock.

• Tinnitus
  A ringing or buzzing sound in the ears, often caused by ear infections, exposure to loud noise, or other health conditions. Homeopathic remedies like Salicylicum Acidum and Chininum Sulphuricum may provide relief.

U

• Urticaria
  Commonly known as hives, it is a skin condition characterized by raised, itchy welts. Homeopathic remedies like Apis Mellifica and Urtica Urens are often used for its treatment.

• Uric Acid
  A waste product of purine metabolism, high levels of which can lead to gout. Homeopathic remedies like Colchicum and Benzoic Acid are frequently used for gout symptoms.

V

• Valeriana Officinalis
  A homeopathic remedy derived from the valerian plant, used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervous disorders.

• Vertigo
  A sensation of spinning or dizziness, often linked to inner ear issues or vestibular disorders. Homeopathic remedies like Cocculus Indicus and Conium may help with vertigo-related symptoms.

• Varicose Veins
  Enlarged veins that often appear swollen and twisted, typically in the legs. Homeopathy offers remedies like Hamamelis and Pulsatilla to alleviate symptoms associated with varicose veins.

W

• Warts
  Benign growths on the skin caused by a viral infection. Commonly treated with homeopathic remedies like Thuja Occidentalis and Antimonium Crudum.

• Whiplash
  A neck injury caused by a sudden jerking motion of the head, often due to car accidents. Arnica and Hypericum are frequently used in homeopathy to treat pain and discomfort from whiplash.

Z

• Zincum Metallicum
  A homeopathic remedy derived from zinc, used for conditions involving weakness, nervous system disturbances, and exhaustion.

• Zoster
  The virus responsible for shingles, a painful condition caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. Homeopathic remedies like Rhus Toxicodendron and Mezereum may help relieve symptoms related to shingles.