Photosensitivity
Homeopathic Remedies for Photosensitivity
Rashes that come on from exposure to sunlight are seen in the symptom pictures of several
remedies. Other remedies are suited to individuals who feel worse from the sun in general,
having rashes, headaches, dizziness, tiredness, and other symptoms. If sensitivity to sunlight
seems to be hereditary, a side effect of medication, or associated with an autoimmune
condition such as lupus, the cause should be taken into account, and a doctor’s care
should be sought. Remedies listed here are sometimes helpful as first-aid in moderate
situations. Deep-seated or chronic problems are best approached through constitutional care,
with the help of an experienced practitioner.
For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also
“Using Homeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homeopathy?
Aconitum napellus: If a rash breaks out suddenly and the person feels extremely
anxious and apprehensive, this remedy may be indicated. Exposure to sunlight, or being out on
a cold dry windy day, may precipitate symptoms. The rash may feel numb or itch, and stimulants
may reduce the itching.
Belladonna: This remedy is indicated when a feeling of heat accompanies a bright red
rash that comes on intensely and suddenly. The person’s face is flushed, and pulsations
may be felt in the head or other parts of the body.
Camphora: This remedy can be helpful for a rash that comes from sun exposure (and is
sometimes also used in sunstroke). A guiding indication for this remedy is a feeling of
general coldness and sensitivity, despite which the person does not want to be covered.
Natrum carbonicum: When this remedy is indicated, a blistery rash comes up in
patches, and the person feels tired or ill from being in the sun. A person who needs this
remedy also tends to be sensitive to weather changes and allergic to many foods, especially
milk.
Natrum muriaticum: A person who needs this remedy may feel tired and weak after
being in the sun, developing headaches and a blotchy or hive-like rash that itches and burns.
Strong thirst, a craving for salt, and a private or reserved personality are other
confirmations for this remedy choice.
Staphysagria: A blistery-looking rash with itching that changes locations from
scratching suggests the use of this remedy. Staphysagria is often suited to
individuals who are very sensitive emotionally and strongly affected by insults or
embarrassment.
Homeopathy Dosage Directions
Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where
self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X,
6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually
printed on the label.
Many homeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and
wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If
improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The
frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be
required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and
in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.
If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.
For more information, including references, see What is Homeopathy? and Understanding Homeopathic Potencies.
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only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical
experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not
necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
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before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.
