Homeopathic Remedies for the Assistance of Grief and Sorrow
Written by Dr. Julianna Englund, ND, LAc
Like Cures Like
Homeopathic medicines are founded upon the principle that “like cures like.” That is, there are characteristics of substances that when they are micro-dosed down to the levelof just their essence, can be used to shift the human state that is characteristic of that substance.
Grief and sadness have their own way of expressing uniquely through each of us. Since Autumn is the season in Chinese medicine when grief and sadness naturally arise, the opportunities often present themselves when we may revisit our grief and release what no longer serves us. Homeopathic remedies can be used for a variety of conditions, but there are some that are especially helpful for assisting us with grief and sadness. There are a few that gently assist the movement through emotional distress in different ways.
Homeopathy offers gentle support for the darkest of times
Mourning is a very important part of the grieving process. If we suppress our emotions during the mourning process, how will we ever transform and grow and honor the love that we had for the cherished one we have lost? Of course, we can’t bring back who and what we mourn. However, using homeopathic remedies that match our grieving emotional states can help inspire our own abilities to process the loss, honor it, and allow us to gently transform into a more balanced state.
Ignatia
According to the School of Homeopathy, Ignatia "is one of the first remedies to consider after a significant loss and when grief is prolonged or stuck. Someone requiring ignatia will find it hard to talk about their loss, preferring to be alone where they may weep uncontrollably. If the grief remains unexpressed, there may be a sensation of a lump in the throat, with episodes of sighing, sobbing and angry outbursts over little things. Over the longer term, physical problems may arise such as headaches and nervous complaints such as tics, anxiety and digestive issues.”(1)
Natrum Muriaticum (aka Nat Mur)
“This remedy is useful when there is deep sadness after a painful loss such as a breakdown of a relationship, especially when emotions are suppressed. Nat mur types are closed and private, holding onto their emotions and preferring to be left alone to weep. They don’t want a fuss and are likely to feel worse if others offer consolation. They feel deeply hurt and betrayed and dwell on past painful events which makes it harder to fall asleep at night.”(1)
Phosphoric acid (aka Phos Acid)
“A Phosphoric acid picture is more likely to be seen after the initial stages of grief have passed and the long term reality of dealing with a loss has set in. The bereaved feels isolated and unable to communicate becauseof an extreme lack of energy. There is exhaustion and indifference. Yet despite feeling tired, sleep does not come easily due to worry and anxiety about loved ones. Other accompanying symptoms may include a crushing headache and a difficulty in staying focused.”(1)
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1. Reference: Copied and Pasted from the "School of Homeopathy”: https://www.homeopathyschool.com/news/2020/04/homeopathic-support-for-grief-and-loss/