We wouldn’t be human if we weren’t indulging in some form of over doing it at one time or another. Whether it’s too much work, play or emotional mayhem homoeopathic remedies are great to restore balance and a sense of well being during the festivities.

The following information may be helpful and relates to homoeopathic remedy pictures and information available in traditional homoeopathic texts. Homoeopathic principles should be applied when using any homoeopathic remedy. Always read the product label. If symptoms persist consult your health care practitioner promptly.

OVER INDULGENCE

When it comes to over doing it the stand out remedy is Nux vomica. This is known as the homoeopathic hangover remedy with classic symptoms of irritability; usually worse 2-3 hours after too much alcohol or after over eating, especially very rich or spicy foods. A dull headache that may be accompanied by some dizziness. There can be nausea, heartburn, cramping pain and a heavy bloated feeling. This remedy will do much to soothe and calm. Repeat Nux vomica, or one of the following remedies, if better indicated, at frequent intervals and drink lots of water between doses to re-hydrate yourself. If after four or five doses you find no relief, try the next most indicated remedy.

If feeling ‘as if poisoned’, with vomiting, diarrhoea and burning pains try Arsenicum, especially if you are worse around midnight. Try Carbo Veg if you feel weak, faint and clammy with bloating in the upper abdomen and lots of belching and wind. Chamomilla is like a “bear with a sore head”, wants to be left alone and the headache feels like an intense pressure from within. For nausea that is not improved by vomiting take Ipecac, there may also be spasmodic diarrhoea. Mag phos suits a bloated abdomen with spasmodic pains relieved by warmth and pressure. Digestive upsets with gas, rumbling and nausea after rich food, ice cream, and fats point to Pulsatilla. For a severe reaction with severe cramps, cold sweat, exhaustion and dehydration, use Veratrum alb.

Don’t drink on an empty stomach; eating something before and while you are drinking alcohol helps avoid a hangover. You can prepare your body beforehand by drinking lots of water and taking some extra vitamin C. After indulging in rich food, follow the meal with a herbal tea such as ginger, chamomile, or peppermint to aid digestion and help relieve any digestive discomfort.

OVER WORKING

Another form of over doing it is to over work, with a tendency to become a slave to deadlines, running around and general overwork and stress. Once again Nux vomica is the most indicated remedy; it covers over work and accompanying ailments such as irritability and impatience, insomnia and a craving for stimulants such as coffee and caffeinated drinks, alcohol, drugs and stimulating food. Regular doses of Kali phos with its nerve tonic effect can support the nervous system.

OVER EMOTIONAL

Ailments such as dizziness, exhaustion and an empty feeling from over caring, loss of sleep and worry about loved ones indicate Cocculus. When feelings of disappointment and grief surface around Christmas take Ignatia or if resentment and old hurts are an issue Nat mur may be better especially if you are inclined to ‘stew’. Kali phos can be taken along with other remedies for its tonic effect on the nervous system. Pulsatilla is good for weepy, clingy kids who drive you mad wanting attention when you are trying to get everything done.

OVER EXCITED

A great remedy for over excited kids is Phosphorus, it will help settle them and allow them to switch off and sleep. When the excitement results in hysterical reactions to everything a few doses of Ignatia can work wonders.

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