Homeopathy offers valuable support in both pre-surgery preparation and post-surgery recovery, aiding in pain management and reducing downtime.

It’s recommended to assemble a carefully curated homeopathic kit ahead of the procedure. Some remedies can be beneficial shortly before surgery, particularly those addressing anticipatory anxiety. Others are incredibly valuable to have on hand as soon as the patient can take them post-operation.

Here’s a suggested list of remedies that should be included in such a kit. However, it’s essential to consider the type of surgery and tissues involved, as different remedies may be needed in specific potencies and sequences along the recovery path. Your homeopath can provide guidance on the most suitable remedies for your case.

BEFORE THE SURGERY


These remedies can help prepare the body and mind for surgery,

promoting a smoother recovery process:

Gelsemium is helpful for nervousness and anxiety before surgery, particularly if accompanied by diarrhea, headache, trembling or heavy sensation in legs. Gelsemium anticipatory anxiety typically arises just before an event begins. Initially, everything may seem fine, but as the moment approaches, the individual becomes overwhelmed with fear and trembling.



Aconite


is

ndicated for extreme agitation or panic before surgery, especially if there is a fear of death.
The patient exhibits heightened excitability and easily startles, showing sensitivity to both light and noise. They may struggle
with

fall

ing

asleep
due to physical restlessness, with tossing and turning. Dry mouth and thirst may also be present.

Aesthusa cynapium is particularly indicated when there is a deep-seated fear or dread surrounding the use of anesthesia before surgery. This fear may manifest as heightened anxiety, restlessness, or even panic attacks leading up to the surgical procedure.

 

AFTER THE SURGERY

Arnica montana is an indispensable addition to any post-surgery kit. Renowned for its ability to alleviate pain, swelling, and bruising, it facilitates a smoother recovery process. Whether it’s after surgery, including cesarean sections, or dental procedures, Arnica montana serves as a catalyst, enhancing the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

There are a number of other remedies, which will have more specific indications. Here a selection of the most commonly used ones which:

……..help with pain or discomfort:

 




Hypericum




,



which is often called ‘Arnica of the nerves’ because it is a major first-aid remedy for nerve pain and damage, especially for traumatised sensory nerves.

This remedy will provide relief from tingling sensations along nerve pathways, radiating pains, sensation of numbness. It is particularly indicated in pain following lumbar punctures or spinal taps and in any procedure that involves an area rich in sensory nerves.




Staphysagria




is for


managing pain and discomfort associated with clean-cut

surgical
wounds or incisions. It is often indicated when neuralgic pain persists at the area of surgical incision. It can help alleviate itching, soreness, and sensitivity in the affected area. Staphysagria is also effective for procedures involving the female reproductive organs, following the use of urinary catheters or any procedures involving dilation or stretching of sphincters (such as rectoscopy or urethroscopy). Additionally, Staphysagria may assist in healing and reducing any emotional distress or agitation following the surgical procedure (there can be a sense of rage or invasion).

Bryonia will help if the pain following surgery is severe and aggravated by even slightest motion. Someone needing this remedy will probably prefer his peace rather than receiving visitors.

Ledum is particularly beneficial for puncture wounds, making it suitable for surgeries involving needles or other sharp instruments and is especially useful with robotic surgery (which is more like a puncture wound), biopsy, insertion of a cannula or an IV catheter, drip or infusionor if the wound from the surgery feels cold, or is better from applying cold packs.

Bellis perennisis particularly beneficial for addressing post-surgical pains and conditions affecting deeper internal tissues or organs, particularly in the pelvic area (including c-section and hysterectomy), abdomen and breast. Symptoms may include a feeling of sprained lameness, bruised sensation and significant muscular soreness. Bellis perennis supports deep tissue recovery. It is also indicated when swelling remains after a course of Arnica. Better to take it earlier in the day as it may disturb sleep.

Rhus toxicodendron is known for its ability to alleviate stiffness and soreness. It helps ease discomfort associated with various surgical procedures. The restlessness is such that the patient cannot lie in one place and must change the position frequently to obtain relief from pain.

Ruta graveolens supports recovery after surgeries involving tendons, joints, or connective tissuee and promotes comfort by helping to reduce stiffness and linksve bread especially after surgery on knees, wrists, shoulders, elbows, ankles, hips etc.


Chamomilla
is a helpful option for managing intense post-surgery pain, so intense that it is described as unbearable, causing the patient to groan constantly due to the intensity of discomfort. It is particularly effective when the pain leads to irritability and restlessness, often accompanied by sweating and agitation . The patient is beside himself, snappish, weeping and whining, peevish, restless, impolite and impatient. This remedy is also commonly used to alleviate severe toothaches and can provide relief during dental procedures.

 

…..help with scar healing and tissue repair:

 

Calendula officinalis is known for its antiseptic and healing properties. Calendula tincture diluted in water can be applied topically to wounds to promote scar tissue formation. It is efficient in healing both neat, surgical incisions and as well as extensive, torn, or jagged wounds where tissue loss occurs, making it impossible to bring the edges together.

Arnica is useful in wounds where the injury has more the nature of a bruise, when the parts are blue or brown and when the edges of the wound can be well united. The patient usually feels bruised and sore. Never use Arnica on open wounds, this is the territory of Calendula!

Staphysagria proves beneficial when the incision or wound site experiences pain disproportionate to the injury, accompanied by excessive bleeding and sluggish healing. Pain sensations typically manifest as stitching or burning.

Symphytum is indicated particularly after a bone surgery. It will help heal the wound itself, promote bone growth, and relieve pain.



Do not give up if you realise a few months (or even years) after the surgery that the scar


h

as not healed optimally: there are remedies which can efficiently address o

lder scars.

………assist in overall recovery from surgery:

 

Phosphoric acid can be beneficial post-surgery, particularly if a person experiences difficulty recovering from the effects of anesthesia. Symptoms may include nausea, disorientation, and overall weakness.

Opium is another valuable remedy if there are lingering effects from anesthesia such as drowsiness, confusion, or constipation.

Cinchona officinalis (China officinalis) aids in replenishing lost fluids and combating weakness after surgery. It will also help with trapped wind after operation.

Coffea cruda will prove useful if sleeplessness is a concern post-surgery. It will help calm the mind and promote restful sleep.