Is There a Homeopathic Treatment for Hiatal Hernia?

Hiatal hernia occurs when the muscular wall that separates the chest from the abdomen allows the stomach to bulge up into the chest cavity. This type of condition may be the result of an injury to that area of the body, a defective hiatus, or increased abdominal pressure from coughing, straining, pregnancy or obesity. As a result, some people may have heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD. Homeopathic remedies cannot cure this condition, but they can help alleviate some of the symptoms.

Prevention Is Key

As for all conditions, it is always best to prevent symptoms rather than counter them after they arise. Aside from taking homeopathic remedies, there are a few things you can implement to keep discomfort to a minimum. If you are obese, losing weight will help. Eat smaller meals, and don't eat anything at least two hours before going to bed. Avoid acidic foods like coffee, and alcohol. If you smoke, consider quitting.

How Homeopathy Works

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Homeopathy works on the principle that like cures like. By subjecting the body to a substance that produces similar symptoms in healthy people at a minimal dose, the body is prompted to heal itself. Homeopathic remedies are derived from various substances, including plants, animals and minerals. These substances are delivered in very diluted doses in the form of sugar pellets or liquid dilutions in a mix of water and alcohol. The higher the potency, the more the substance is diluted. Higher potencies produce stronger effects, so it is always best to start with a low potency, such as 6c.

Magnesium Phosphoricum (Mag-p)

Phosphate of magnesia is an antispasmodic remedy. This is a good remedy to use when you feel bloated and stuffed, and when belching offers no relief. According to "Boericke's New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica with Repertory," this remedy is best taken at high potencies (30c-200c) in hot water 3.

Nux Vomica (Nux-v)

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Poison nut is a great remedy for those who live a sedentary lifestyle, work at a desk and seek stimulants such as coffee and wine. If your symptoms also include a sour taste in your mouth after eating, slight nausea, acid reflux or a heavy feeling in your stomach, consider taking this remedy at a moderate potency (30c) in the evening before bedtime.

Lycopodium (Lyc)

Club moss is taken when your symptoms are worse at night, and you have difficulties digesting bread, cabbage, beans and other fermentable foods. People who require this remedy often overeat and feel hungry most of the time. Hiccoughs accompany acid reflux and the taste in the mouth is bitter. This remedy is best taken at low potency (6c) when symptoms arise, but not more than twice per day.

A Word of Caution

Homeopathic remedies come in a variety of potencies. Some have trace amounts of the source tincture, which may interact with medications. Although most remedies may be purchased over the counter at health food or supplement stores, it is best to consult a trained homeopath before embarking on a homeopathic remedy.