For many Australians their workplace is an environment where they are breathing recycled air and in some cases harmful chemicals. They may also be confined by an unnaturally sedentary lifestyle, work under pressure and stress, often travel regularly for work and in many cases spend lengthy amounts of time away from the family.
Homoeopathy, along with recognition of and attention to balancing your individual stressors, may help you to maintain a state of ‘Wellness at Work’ even when you’re under pressure.
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.
Accidents: The key remedies to have in your work kit for accidents and injuries are Arnica for accidents, bruises and associated shock. Hypericum for cuts, abrasions, lacerations and crush injuries with sharp, shooting pains – it may assist in reducing pain and promoting regeneration of damaged nerves. Ledum for puncture wounds including needle stick injuries, animal and human bites; and Ruta grav for sprains and strains.
Colds & Flu: The workplace can be a great breeding ground for cold and flu viruses. For decades Anas barb has been used as a key remedy for prevention and can be useful for people who easily succumb to colds. In addition take Aconite and Ferrum phos at the first sign of symptoms. Or for symptoms more like classic achy flu with lethargy then try Gelsemium. A runny nose with discharge that burns the nostrils indicates Arsenicum; the throat burns, person feels weak, tired and restless with a desire for sips of warm water.
Repeated sore throats, sinus and/or chest infections suggest a weakened immune response and would benefit from constitutional homoeopathic prescribing.
Fright & Shock: After a fright, as in seeing an accident, Aconite is indicated for feelings of agitation and restless with a fear of death. Arnica is useful after mental strain, shock, physical trauma. Ignatia for mental hysteria, loss of control, insomnia after grief or disappointed love.
Stomach Upsets: Gastro bugs can occur at anytime of the year and spread especially easily in the work place. Proper hand washing is vital and should always be carried out before eating and after toileting. Arsenicum is indicated for vomiting and diarrhoea with burning pains, and better for warmth, person is restless, chilly and thirsty for sips. Colocynthis, for diarrhoea with waves of cramping pains, better for doubling over, heat and pressure. Ipecac is suggested for constant nausea that is not relieved by vomiting and diarrhoea in spasms.
Stress, Anxiety and Over Working: Nux vomica is the most indicated remedy for the stress caused by over work; it covers ailments such as irritability and impatience, insomnia with a craving for stimulants such as coffee, alcohol, drugs and stimulating foods. Gelsemium is great for anticipatory anxiety; when people anticipate even simple things with fear and dread. Lycopodium suits tense, irritable intellectual people; lacking confidence they become anxious before any ordeal with bloating and flatulence. Other possible stress remedies include Aconite for acute anxiety, agitation and restlessness. Argent nit is also good for those with “nerves” due to worry of coming events, hurried and talkative they crave sweets. Restless anxiety, apprehension and dread in high achievers who become overly fussy and fastidious indicate Arsenicum. Dizziness, exhaustion and an empty feeling from worry and loss of sleep indicates Cocculus.
Shift Work – fly in fly out: with so many people traveling, especially by air, to and from the workplace homoeopathy is a real boon. Nux vomica is the standout remedy for symptoms associated with changes in the body clock from time changes, shift work or long work hours. Cocculus with its jet lag like symptoms and the nerve nutrient Kali phos are also well indicated to support the nervous system.
For many this kind of life style also has an impact emotionally. Remedies that are commonly indicated are Ignatia for the grief and sadness associated with separation from family. Pulsatilla if feeling sad, lonely and emotional. Nux vomica if, once back home, you’re constantly irritable and cranky with the family. And if you feel fed up, dragged down, want to be left alone and sometimes feel like running away from it all then take some Sepia, it will help bring back the joy.
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