Antispasmodics Health Dictionary

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Antispasmodics: From 1 Different Sources

These are antimuscarinic drugs (see ANTIMUSCARINE) which have the property of relaxing smooth muscle. Along with other antimuscarinic drugs, antispasmodics may be helpful supportive treatment for patients with non-ulcer DYSPEPSIA, IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS) and DIVERTICULAR DISEASE. Examples of antispasmodic drugs are ATROPINE sulphate, dicyclomine bromide and propantheline (a synthetic antimuscarinic drug used as a treatment adjunct in gastrointestinal disorders and also for controlling urinary frequency), bromide, alverine, mebervine and peppermint oil. With the arrival of more powerful and speci?c antisecretory drugs, such as the histamine H2-receptor antagonists – examples are CIMETIDINE and RANITIDINE – the use of antispasmodics has declined.

Health Source: Medical Dictionary
Author: Health Dictionary

Antimuscarine

A pharmacological e?ect where the action of ACETYLCHOLINE, a chemical neurotransmitter released at the junctions (synapses) of parasympathetic and ganglionic nerves, is inhibited. The junctions between nerves and skeletal muscles have nicotinic receptors. A wide range of drugs with antimuscarinic effects are in use for various disorders including PSYCHOSIS, BRONCHOSPASM, disorders of the eye (see EYE, DISORDERS OF), PARKINSONISM, and problems of the GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT and URINARY TRACT. (See also ANTISPASMODICS.)... antimuscarine

Anti-convulsants

Usually refers to children with fevers. Herbs for a febrile seizure, or for prevention and reduction of epileptic fits. Usually given orally, but where this is not possible a rectal injection or a suppository (such as Valerian) may be used. Another term for ‘antispasmodics’. ... anti-convulsants

Aquae Waters

Aqua waters are weak and simple solutions of volatile oils in distilled water obtained either by distillation or by simple solution. Still popular as harmless carminatives in infantile colic, mild antispasmodics, etc.

A natural basis for skin lotions (Witch Hazel).

Dill water. (Anethi). Dill seeds 4oz; water 2 and a quarter litres. Distil down to 1 and a quarter litres. Dose: 1-3 teaspoon for children’s colic.

Aniseed water. (Anisi). Aniseeds 4oz; distilled water 2 and a quarter litres. Distil down to 1 and a quarter litres. Antispasmodic for children’s colic, teething troubles, etc. Dose: 1-3 teaspoons. Elderflower water. (Sambuci). Elderflowers 8oz; distilled water 1 and a quarter litres. Distil down to one-fifth. Eye lotion.

Eyebright water. (Euphrasia). Eyebright herb and flowers 4oz; distilled water 2 and a quarter litres. Distil down to 1 and a quarter litres. Antihistamine eye lotion. ... aquae waters

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (cts)

Compression of the median nerve between the transverse carpal ligament and the carpal bone. May cause damage to the sensory and motor nerves and manifest as teno-synovitis or ganglion. Affects chiefly middle-aged women.

Symptoms. Numbness or tingling in first three fingers which feel ‘clumsy’. Worse at night. Muscle wasting of palm of the hand.

Diagnostic sign: the ‘flick’ sign – shaking or ‘flicking’ of the wrist when pain is worse and which is believed to mechanically untether the nerve and promote return of venous blood. (J. Neural Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, 1984, 47, 873)

Differential diagnosis: compression of seventh cervical spinal nerve root (osteopathic lesion) has tingling of the hands when standing or from exaggerated neck movements.

Treatment. Reduction of spasm with peripheral relaxants (antispasmodics). Also: local injection of corticosteroid or surgical division of the transverse carpal ligament.

Alternatives:– Tea. Equal parts. Chamomile, Hops, Valerian. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. 1 cup 2-3 times daily.

Tablets/capsules. Cramp bark. St John’s Wort. Wild Yam. Lobelia. Prickly Ash. Passion flower. Black Cohosh. Hawthorn.

Powders. Formula. Cramp bark 1; Guaiacum half; Black Cohosh half; Pinch Cayenne. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) 2-3 times daily.

Bromelain, quarter to half a teaspoon between meals.

Turmeric. Quarter to half a teaspoon between meals.

Tinctures. Formula: Cramp bark 1; Lobelia half; Black Cohosh half. Few drops Tincture Capsicum. Mix. 1 teaspoon in water when necessary. To reduce blood pressure, add half part Mistletoe.

Practitioner. For pain. Tincture Gelsemium BPC 1963 5-15 drops when necessary.

Topical. Rhus tox ointment. Camphorated oil.

Lotion: Tincture Lobelia 20; Tincture Capsicum 1.

Supplements. Condition responsive to Vitamin B6 and B-complex. Some authorities conclude that CTS is a primary deficiency of Vitamin B6, dose: 50-200mg daily.

General. Yoga, to control pain. Attention to kidneys. Diuretics may be required. Cold packs or packet of peas from the refrigerator to site of pain for 15 minutes daily. ... carpal tunnel syndrome (cts)

Catalepsy

A medical curiosity occurring in some neurotic people who lose consciousness followed by muscular rigidity. Although rare, it may follow excessive stress. Suspension of heart beat, breathing. Other vital functions simulate death and are a cause for alarm. Rigidity may cause the body to assume a statue-like appearance. The subject should be carefully watched.

Treatment. Antispasmodics.

As swallowing is not possible, the gums should be rubbed with a little dilute Tincture or Liquid

Extract Lobelia, Eucalyptus, Thyme, Valerian or Wild Lettuce. When swallowing is possible, a cup of Chamomile, Lime blossom or Ephedra tea assists.

Practitioner: Ephedrine, 8-60mg by mouth, thrice daily. ... catalepsy

Neuroblastoma

A malignant tumour on a nerve ganglia. Exceedingly painful.

Treatment: to sustain the nervous system and help reduce pain. By medical practitioner. Hospitalisation. Sedatives. Antispasmodics. Anti-neoplastics.

Passion flower, Black Cohosh, Lobelia, Asafoetida, Mistletoe.

Formula. Periwinkle (Madagascar) 2; Black Cohosh 1; Passion flower 1. Liquid Extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg. Three or more times daily.

Vinchristine. Response to vinca alkaloids. ... neuroblastoma

Antispasmodic

n. a drug that relieves spasm of smooth muscle in the gut. Antispasmodics, which include *alverine citrate, *dicycloverine, and mebeverine, are used to treat irritable bowel syndrome and diverticular disease. Compare antispastic.... antispasmodic

Croup

Laryngo-tracheo-bronchitis. Acute bacterial or viral inflammation of the respiratory tract. Spread by airborne infection.

Symptoms: difficult breathing. Breathing-in is noisy, spasmodic and prolonged. Effusion of a plastic-like material which coagulates to form a false membrane. Fretfulness. Symptoms of a ‘cold’ disappear but towards evening skin becomes hot, pulse rises, and a sense of anxiety takes over.

Laryngeal muscles are held in spasm, calling for antispasmodics. If the course of the disease has not been arrested on the third or fourth day a crisis is at hand and modern hospital treatment necessary. The condition is always worse at night. Treatment varies with each individual case. Stimulating diaphoretics induce gentle sweating, de-toxicate, and relieve tension on respiration.

Lobelia is unsurpassed as a croupal remedy and may be given alone either by infusion (tea) liquid extract or acid tincture. Given as a powder it works too slowly in a condition where speed saves lives.

While copious drinks of Catnep (Catmint) tea help, stronger medicines are indicated. Where resistance runs low, add Echinacea. Should any of these induce vomiting, it would be regarded as a favourable sign after which a measure of relief is felt.

Alternatives. Liquid extracts. Formula. Pleurisy root 2; Lobelia 1; Ginger half. Dose: one 5ml teaspoon in hot water every 2 hours. Infants: 10-30 drops.

Tinctures. Formula: Pleurisy root 2; Blue Cohosh 1; Lobelia 1. One to two 5ml teaspoons in hot water every 2 hours. Infants 10-20 drops.

Practitioner. Formula: 2 drops Tincture Belladonna BP 1980, 4 drops Tincture Ipecuanha BP 1973. Water to 2oz. One 5ml teaspoon in water every 15 minutes for 2 or 3 doses to enable child to sleep until morning; then once every hour or two for 3 days. Not to press medicines on children feeling comfortable. Inhalant. Friar’s Balsam. Steam kettle on hand. Or:–

Aromatherapy. Inhale. Drops. Thyme 1; Eucalyptus 2; Hyssop 1. In bowl of boiling water at the bedside at night or when necessary.

Drowsiness requires diffusive stimulants: Tinctures: Echinacea 2; Ginger quarter; Pleurisy root 1. One to two 5ml teaspoons in hot water every 2 hours; infants 5-20 drops according to age.

Collapse. When confronted with an ashen face, depression and collapse, powerful stimulants are necessary: tinctures – Formula. Prickly Ash bark 3; Blue Cohosh 2; Ginger 1. One 5ml teaspoon in hot water every 10 minutes; (infants 5-20 drops).

Topical. Relaxing oil. Ingredients: 3oz olive oil; half an ounce Liquid Extract or tincture Lobelia; Tincture Capsicum (Cayenne) 20 drops. Shake vigorously. Rub freely on throat, winding round a strip of suitable material wrung out in hot water. Cover with protective bandage or plastic film. Renew hot flannel every 10-15 minutes until paroxysms subside.

Poultice. Dissolve coffeespoon Cayenne powder or chillies in cup cider vinegar. Simmer gently 10 minutes. Strain. Saturate a piece of suitable material and wind round throat to relieve congested blood vessels.

Diet: No dairy foods which increase phlegm. No solid meals. Herb teas, vegetable and fruit juices only.

Steam kettle on hand, or Friar’s Balsam inhalation. See: FRIAR’S BALSAM. Regulate bowels. The condition is worsened in a dry hot atmosphere; reduce central heating to ensure adequate ventilation. Many a serious stridor and cough have been relieved by running some hot water into a bath or basin and sitting the child in a homemade Turkish bath.

Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner. ... croup

Dysmenorrhoea

Painful menstruation – two types – (1) primary or spasmodic (2) secondary – secondary to pelvic disease. Herbal treatment is the same for both types.

The womb goes into spasm with pains as in labour; teenager screams aloud. Causes may be glandular inadequacy, prolapse of the womb, inflammation and congestion of the lining, scars on the cervix, psychological disorders. The most likely cause is hormonal imbalance. Where due to a chill, a hot bath and herbal teas (Agnus Castus, Pennyroyal, or Raspberry leaves) are indicated. Where accompanied by emotional excitability, the addition of Skullcap or Motherwort is beneficial.

Cause of the pain is mostly a high concentration of prostaglandins – chemical hormone-like substances that have an astringent effect upon walls of the womb thus arresting blood supply. Herbal vaso-dilators or relaxants have an anti-prostaglandin effect.

Treatment. The first concern of the practitioner is to administer a uterine vaso-dilator to increase the capacity of the blood vessels to transport blood. This effect can be obtained by employing antispasmodics, and nerve relaxants. Those having a specific effect upon the womb are: Agnus Castus, Black Cohosh, Black Haw, Blue Cohosh, Butterbur, Caraway, Cramp bark, Helonias, Jamaica Dogwood, Goldenseal, Lovage, Motherwort, Mugwort, Peppermint, Pulsatilla, St John’s Wort, Skullcap, Squaw Vine, Valerian, Wild Thyme, Wild Yam.

Teas. Lovage, Motherwort, Mugwort, Peppermint, Skullcap, Chamomile, Wild Thyme, Agnus Castus, Raspberry leaves. Add a pinch of Ginger.

Decoctions. Black Cohosh, Black Haw, Blue Cohosh, Butterbur, Cramp bark, False Unicorn root, Jamaica Dogwood, Squaw Vine, Valerian, Wild Yam. A pinch of Ginger enhances action.

Formula. Skullcap 2; Black Cohosh 1; Cramp bark 1. Dosage. Powders: 500mg or one-third teaspoon. Liquid extracts: half-1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 1-2 teaspoons. In honey, water or fruit juice thrice daily, before meals.

In the absence of the above, the following are also reliable: Black Haw, Helonias, Squaw Vine. Jamaica Dogwood combines well with Black Haw.

Antispasmodic drops.

Supplements. B-complex, B6, Calcium, Magnesium.

Supportives: Heat to the feet. Hot water bottle and electric blanket. Bedrest helps relax pelvic tissues. ... dysmenorrhoea

Endometriosis

The presence of tissue normally found on the walls of the womb in an abnormal site, i.e. endometrial tissue implants may appear in the pelvic cavity where they multiply causing obstruction or retrograde tissue change. Scars and adhesions may form between womb and bowel. An ovary may be affected by a tissue thread passing through a Fallopian tube as an aftermath of menstruation. The condition may disappear at pregnancy or menopause. Such fibrous adhesions prevent proper conception and fertility.

Symptoms. Sharp stabbing pains are worse by intercourse. Pain radiates down the back; worse two weeks before menstruation. Incidence has increased since introduction of the vaginal tampon. Enlarged ‘boggy’ uterus. Menstrual irregularity and pain. Diagnosis confirmed by laparoscopy.

Treatment. Official treatment is by Danol hormone therapy which induces a state of artificial pregnancy. Shrinkage and remission of symptoms follow as long as medication is continued. Where the condition has not regressed too far, a number of phyto-pharmaceuticals may bring a measure of relief. These are believed to reduce levels of gonadotrophins and ovarian steroids and abolish cyclical hormonal changes. They are best administered by a qualified herbal practitioner: (MNIMH). Prescriptions vary according to the requirements of each individual case and are modified to meet changed symptoms and progress.

Formula.

Tr Zingiber fort BP (1973) 5 Tr Xanthoxylum 1:5 BHP (1983) 20 L.E. Glycyrrhiza BP (1973) 10 Tr Phytolacca 1:10 BPC (1923) 5 Tr Chamaelirium 1:5 BHP (1983) 50

Aq ad 250ml

Sig 5-10ml (3i) tds aq cal pc.

For pain episodes: pelvic antispasmodics – say Anemone: 10-20 drops (tincture) prn. Extra Ginger, pelvic stimulant, may be taken once or twice daily between meals. Chamomile tea: 1-2 cups daily to maintain endocrine balance.

Formula. Mrs Janet Hicks, FNIMH. Blue Flag root 30ml; Burdock root 20ml; Hawthorn berries 20ml; Pulsatilla herb 40ml; Vervain 50ml; Dandelion root 30ml; Ginger 10ml. Dose: 5ml in water, thrice daily. (Medical Herbalist, Alresford, Nr Winchester, UK)

Formula. Mrs Brenda Cooke, FNIMH. Helonias, Wild Yam, Vervain, Black Haw, Parsley Piert, Marigold, Butternut, aa 15. Goldenseal 10, Ginger 2.5. 5mls tds., pc. (Medical Herbalist, Mansfield, Notts, UK)

Topical. Castor oil packs to low abdomen, twice weekly.

Note: Vigorous exercise appears to reduce the risk of women developing the condition.

Danazol drug rash. Echinacea. Chickweed cream. ... endometriosis

Headache, Common

Usually due to muscular tension. Where persistent the underlying cause should be treated. Causes are many and varied including fevers, infected sinus cavities, kidney disorders, dental problems, thrombosis, neuralgias, nasal congestion, arteritis, pressure within the eyes, spread of pain from bones, etc.

See separate entry for migraine.

As indicated: relaxants, antispasmodics, hepatics (liver agents), laxatives. BHP (1983) recommends: Betony, Hops, St John’s Wort, Yerba Mate, Catmint, Passion flower, Jamaican Dogwood, Pulsatilla, Rosemary. A diuretic may release excess body fluid and surprisingly relieve headache as in pre-menstrual tension.

Frontal headache: Agnus Castus.

From eyestrain: Rue, Witch Hazel.

After heavy physical work: Ginseng.

Neuralgia of the skull: Gelsemium.

Low blood pressure: Gentian.

High blood pressure: Lime flowers.

Depressive conditions: Cola.

Pain, back of the head: Oats, Ladyslipper.

Pre-menstrual: Cramp bark, Agnus Castus.

Excess mental exertion: Rosemary.

Following anger: Sumbul.

In children: see CHILDREN’S COMPLAINTS.

Pain, top of head: Pulsatilla, Cactus.

Throbbing headache: Chamomile.

Sick headache: Blue Flag.

Tension headache: Skullcap, Betony, Passion flower.

Cluster headache, associated with shingles: Vervain, Skullcap.

Menstrual headache: see entry: MENSTRUAL HEADACHE.

Alternatives. Tea. Combine equal parts: Skullcap, Betony, Chamomile. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup when necessary.

Decoction. Combine equal parts: Valerian, Blue Flag, Barberry bark. 1 teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup whens necessary.

Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag, Valerian, Chamomile, Passion flower.

Powders. Formula. Equal parts: Skullcap, Rosemary, Valerian. 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) when necessary.

Tinctures. Combine equal parts: Mistletoe, Valerian, Skullcap. One to two teaspoons in water every 3 hours as necessary.

Tincture Rosemary. 15-30 drops in water as necessary.

Practitioner. Tincture Gelsemium 5 drops to 100ml water (half cup) – 1 teaspoon hourly.

Traditional combination: Skullcap, Valerian, Mistletoe.

Topical. Hot footbaths. Cold compress to head.

Aromatherapy. Anoint forehead with few drops: Lavender, Chamomile, Rosemary, Mint, Balm, or Tiger Balm essential oils.

Diet. Low fat. Low salt. Avoid meats preserved in sodium nitrite (bacon, ham, red meats, etc). Supplementation. Vitamins A, B-complex, B6 (50mg), B12, C (up to 1 gram), E (up to 1000iu). Magnesium, Zinc. ... headache, common

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (ibs)

Previously known as “mucous colitis”, “spastic colon”. Believed to be associated with psychomatic rather than allergic phenomena. Food is said to be responsible for one-third cases. X-ray fails to reveal evidence; prostaglandins implicated. Females more susceptible than men. Cow’s milk and antigens in beef can precipitate.

Symptoms. Spastic colon: colon held in spasm. The two main symptoms are abdominal pain and altered bowel habit. Pain relieved on going to stool or on passing wind. Diarrhoea with watery stools on rising may alternate with constipation. Sensation that the bowel is incompletely emptied. Flatulence. Passing of mucus between stools. The chronic condition may cause anaemia, weight loss and rectal blood calling for treatment of the underlying condition.

Indicated: astringents, demulcents, antispasmodics.

Treatment. If possible, start with 3-day fast.

Alternatives. Teas. (1) Combine equal parts; Agrimony (astringent), Hops (colon analgesic), Ephedra (anti-sensitive). (2) Combine equal parts; Meadowsweet (astringent) and German Chamomile (nervine and anti-inflammatory). Dose: 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. 1 cup freely, as tolerated. Bilberry tea. 2 tablespoons fresh or dried Bilberries in 1 pint water simmered 10 minutes. Half-1 cup freely.

Note: Old European: Chamomile and Caraway seed tea. 1 cup morning and evening.

Decoction. Formula. Tormentil root 2; Bistort root 2; Valerian root 1. Dose: 2 teaspoons to each cup water simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup 3-4 times daily.

Tablets/capsules. Calamus. Cramp bark. Goldenseal. Slippery Elm, Cranesbill.

Formula. Cranesbill 2; Caraway 2; Valerian half. Dose: Powders: 750mg or half a teaspoon). Liquid Extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-4 teaspoons. Thrice daily.

Practitioner. RX tea: equal parts herbs Peppermint, Balm and German Chamomile. Infuse 1-2 teaspoons in cup boiling water and add 3 drops Tincture Belladonna.

Formula. Tinctures. Black Catechu 2; Cranesbill 1; Hops quarter. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons in water or honey, thrice daily.

Psyllium seeds (Ispaghula). 2-5 teaspoons taken with sips of water, or as Normacol, Isogel, etc. For pain in bowel, Valerian.

Fenugreek seeds. 2 teaspoons to cup water simmered 10 minutes. Half-1 cup freely. Consume seeds. Cinnamon, tincture or essence: 30-60 drops in water 3-4 times daily.

Menstrual related irritable bowel. Evening Primrose.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, with neurosis. Treat thyroid gland (Bugleweed, Kelp, etc).

With severe nerve stress: add CNS (central nervous system) relaxant (Hops, Ladies Slipper, Roman Chamomile)

Oil of Peppermint. A simple alternative. 3-5 drops in teaspoon honey, or in enteric-coated capsule containing 0.2ml standardised Peppermint oil B.P., (Ph.Eur.)

Intestinal antispasmodics: Valerian, Chamomile, Balm, Rosemary.

Diet. “People with IBS should stop drinking coffee as it can induce a desire to defecate.” (Hallamshire Hospital Research Team)

Dandelion coffee. Fenugreek tea. Carrot juice. Bananas mashed into a puree with Slippery Elm powder. Yoghurt. Gluten-free diet.

Supplements. Calcium lactate tablets: 2 × 300mg thrice daily at meals. Floradix. Lactobacillus acidophilus to counteract toxic bacteria. Vitamin C (2-4g). Zinc. Linusit.

Note: Serious depression may underlay the condition. Anti-depressants sometimes relieve symptoms dramatically.

Chronic cases. Referral to Gastrology Outpatient Department. ... irritable bowel syndrome (ibs)

Meniere’s Disease

Inner ear disorder. Constriction of cerebral blood vessels (vasospasm) increases pressure of fluids in the balancing mechanism. Ages 40-60; more in men.

Etiology. Obscure; though cases may be traced to auto-toxaemia, Vitamin B deficiency, menstruation, malaria drugs (chloroquine).

Symptoms: dizziness, nausea, vomiting, tinnitus, sound distortions, heavy sweating, loss of hearing; usually in one ear only. Early diagnosis essential for effective treatment. This may mean reference to a department of otolaryngology or otoneurology.

Treatment. Antispasmodics. Nervines. Sometimes a timely diuretic reduces severity – Uva Ursi, Dandelion root, Wild Carrot.

Alternatives. Current European practice: Betony, German Chamomile, Passion flower, Hawthorn, Hops, Feverfew, White Willow.

Tea. Combine, equal parts: Valerian, Wild Carrot, Agrimony. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup every 2 hours during attack; thrice daily thereafter.

Decoction. Mistletoe: 2 teaspoons to each cup cold water steeped overnight. Bring to boil. Allow to cool. Half-1 cup, as above.

Tablets/capsules. Feverfew, Mistletoe, Prickly Ash.

Formula. Ginkgo 2; Dandelion 1; Black Cohosh 1. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Thrice daily.

Feverfew tincture. See: FEVERFEW.

Dr J. Christopher: inject into ears, at night, few drops oil of Garlic (or contents of Garlic capsule).

Cider vinegar. 2 teaspoons to glass water: as desired.

Aromatherapy. Inhalants: Eucalyptus or Rosemary oils.

Diet: gluten-free, low salt; good responses observed. High fibre. Avoid dairy products and chocolate. Vitamins: B-complex, B1; B2; B6; E; F. Brewer’s yeast, Niacin.

Minerals: Calcium. Magnesium. Phosphorus. Dolomite. ... meniere’s disease

Neuralgia, General

Pain along a nerve, i.e. pain in the shoulders from pressure on a spinal nerve serving the neck.

Alternatives. Black Cohosh, Cactus, Chamomile, Lady’s Slipper, Ginseng, Hops, Jamaica Dogwood, White Willow, Wild Lettuce, Valerian.

Chamomile tea (mild analgesic).

Tablets/capsules. Any of the above.

Formula. Ginseng 4; Black Cohosh 2; Skullcap 2; Mistletoe 1; Motherwort 1. Dose: Liquid Extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Thrice daily. Children: see: DOSAGE. Cayenne pepper (Capsicum) sometimes successful.

Topical. Poultice: Chamomile, Hops, Linseed or Bran. Acute cases (cold), chronic cases (hot). Grated or bruised Horseradish root. Evening Primrose oil. Hot Cider vinegar, Tincture Arnica or Hypericum. Aromatherapy. 2 drops each: Juniper, Lavender, Chamomile to 2 teaspoons vegetable oil. Light massage. Diet. High protein. Calcium-rich foods.

Supplements. Vitamin B-complex, B6, B12, Niacin, Magnesium, Dolomite, Zinc.

See: FACIAL and INTERCOSTAL NEURALGIA; DYSMENORRHOEA (neuralgia of the womb). ANTISPASMODICS. ... neuralgia, general

Pain

Agonising physical distress caused by sensory nerve irritation. Nature’s warning that something is wrong. Where persistent, investigation by a qualified person is essential. For mild pain natural non- suppressive herbs are available. The following are helpful until the doctor comes.

In the chest. When in the gullet it can closely resemble pain in the heart and can be mistaken for angina. Gullet pain, worse by acid and hot drinks, is always a background pain and fails to resolve after exercise. See: OESOPHAGEAL SPASM.

Aching muscles. Bio-strath Willow Formula.

In the hips. Ligvites. (Gerard House)

Ovarian. See: OVARIES.

Fibrositis, polymyalgia. Low degree pain in muscles. Any one:– Black Cohosh, Devil’s Claw, Wild Lettuce, Wild Yam, Wintergreen, Lavender, Parsley, Fenugreek seeds, Meadowsweet, German Chamomile.

In the chest. (Lungs) Balm of Gilead. (Heart) Motherwort. Breast. Evening Primrose oil.

Spine. St John’s Wort.

Aching teeth. Oil of Cloves.

Lumbago, sciatica, backache. Bio-Strath Willow formula.

Gout, rheumatism, osteo-arthritis. Poultice or compress – Comfrey, Plantain leaves, Olbas oil, Weleda Massage oil.

The acute abdomen. Carminative herbs for flatulent colic.

Pain in bowels. (Internal) Wild Yam, Cinnamon, Ginger, Caraway. (External) Cold-pack with Castor oil, Chamomile poultice.

Sprains, bruises. 5 drops Oil of Camphor to egg-cup Olive oil, rub-in relief.

Facial stabbing pains. Plantain, Chamomile, Rosemary, or Wintergreen (external) compress, lotion, tincture.

Womb. Raspberry leaf/Motherwort tea (equal parts), internal.

Head. Feverfew, Skullcap, Passion flower.

Nerve pains. Valerian. Jamaica Dogwood.

See: ANALGESICS, ANTISPASMODICS, NEURALGIA, PLEURODYNIA, etc.

Aromatherapy. Combine, equal parts Oils of Clove, Sassafras and Camphor. Add 10 drops to egg-cup Olive oil: use as a rub for aching muscles and stiff joints.

Drugs suppress pain without necessarily removing the underlying cause. The natural response to pain is to tighten, but if the patient lets go and relaxes into it, then he finds he can better control it. ... pain

Bloating

n. the subjective experience of abdominal fullness, often (but not always) accompanied by abdominal distension. Its many causes include air swallowing (*aerophagia), abnormal intestinal gas handling or abdominal wall reflexes, increased gas production, and organ hypersensitivity. Bloating may be associated with increased belching, excessive flatus, or changes in bowel habit, particularly constipation. It tends to be aggravated by meals, fluctuates in severity throughout the day (with particular discomfort in the evening), and is relieved at night. Treatment includes the removal of exacerbating factors (such as specific dietary products), avoidance of carbonated drinks and fat-rich diets, reduction in dietary fibre, and reassurance. Drug therapy has limited efficacy, but antispasmodics, laxatives, peppermint oil, simeticone, prokinetics (such as domperidone), nonabsorbable antibiotics (rifaximin), and tricyclic antidepressants (to reduce hypersensitivity) may be tried.... bloating

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

(IBS) a common functional bowel disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain, altered stool consistency, and variable frequency of defecation. The symptoms, which may differ from individual to individual, may be caused by abnormal contractions of the colon, heightened sensitivity to such stimuli as stretching or distension, stress, and changes in diet. A minority of people may develop symptoms following an episode of gastroenteritis (postinfectious irritable bowel syndrome). Tests may be needed to rule out organic disease. Treatment includes reassurance, dietary manipulation (see FODMAPS), the use of antispasmodics, antidiarrhoeal drugs or laxatives, and drugs that reduce the sensitivity of the bowel (such as low-dose amitriptyline).... irritable bowel syndrome

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