It can be a reaction of tissue to infection, injury, surgery, radiation, chemicals, heat or cold, cancer or auto-immune disease.
Every medical student has to commit to memory four classical symptoms: heat, redness, pain and swelling.
As inflammation is a natural process, its progress should not be hindered by too much interference. Invading micro-organisms are destroyed by antibodies and white blood cells. During the encounter white cells may also be destroyed and expelled from the body in the form of pus. They are assisted in their action by an Anti-inflammatory. Most anti-inflammatories are also antiseptics. An external injury should be washed and treated with one.
Selection of remedies varies according to area and degree of inflammation. When occurring in the colon, it was known as ‘colicon’ by Celsus, Roman physician, in the 1st century. His prescription is as apt today:– Aniseed, Parsley, Pepper, few drops Castor oil and a pinch of powdered Myrrh.
Treatment for inflammation would be appropriate to the disease or condition, i.e. inflammation of the inner lining of the heart requires specific treatment as appears in entry for ENDOCARDITIS. For simple external inflammation, a tea of Chickweed, Comfrey or Marshmallow root may be indicated. See: ANTI- INFLAMMATORIES.
Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner.
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