Homoeopathy and Gut Health
By
Dr. Pankaj Aggarwal
Gut is a masterpiece in its own way. It is also referred to as ‘’second brain’’. It is the only organ in the whole body which can boost its own independent nervous system. As it is one of the source of serotonin (neurotransmitter) for brain which regulates basic physiological functions and mental processes such as learning, memory and mood. Gut plays a very important role in keeping the immune system healthy as well. Without a healthy gut, immune function is severely disadvantaged. A healthy gut absorbs nutrients effectively but a compromised gut cannot do so.
Structure
One can eat best diet and still cannot absorb efficiently. And most nutrients will run down the toilet. The lining of small intestine has some small finger like projections called villi, which increase the surface area of the gut to create a huge area for absorption. In fact, small intestine alone has approximately 250 square meters of surface area (roughly the size of a tennis court!) If the villi are functioning well and healthy, then absorption is effective and efficient.
Role of Gut Flora
The gut is home to many bacteria and other micro organisms. They helps in:
Digestion
Protection
Transport of key substances as gut bacteria create by-products that play a vital role in the transport of minerals, vitamins, water and gases.
Dietary fibre can only be digested in the presence of healthy gut bacteria. Also, synthesise various vital nutrients and neurotransmitter.
Immune Function
Deficiency of beneficial gut bacterias can cause some key immune cells called Neutrophils and Macrophages (these cells literally ‘gobble up’ nasty invaders) to be unable to function properly.
So, a compromised gut means not only a compromised immune system, but also an under functioning brain due to the decreased synthesis of those essential neurotransmitters!
Homoeopathy for Gut Health
Homoeopathic medicines work in a different way. In every illness they boost the immunity to fight against the infection unlike any antibiotic which not only kills the invading harmful bacterias but also the beneficial ones. So homoeopathy is the best way to treat your gut as it should not be taken lightly. Minor illnesses of gut can be transformed into major if health of gut is compromised by harsh treatments or ignorance. There are various medicines in homoeopathy which can show miraculous results in some serious problems of gut. These include:
Nux Vomica
Pulsatilla
China
Arsenic Album
Lycopodium
Colocynth
Carbo veg
Ipecac
These above mentioned medicines are the most indicated medicines in gut issues. But these should never be taken without the consultation and advice from a certified homoeopath.
Homoeopathy can be the safest treatment for all types of gut related issues.