Homeopathy is a flexible form of natural medicine, which can be a powerful ally in surgical recovery. Remedies are chosen individually to match your situation, the nature of your surgery, and the symptoms you are experiencing.
In surgical recovery, as in healing from an injury, it is fine to use more than one remedy if your symptoms call for them. Homeopathy provides a stimulus to your body’s own restorative healing ability, and should be taken according to minimum dose principles – once healing is well under way, no further doses should be needed.
Below are details of twelve of the remedies most frequently used after surgery to aid healing.
Arnica
Most surgical cases will respond well to Arnica. This remedy is best taken soon after your surgery, and will reduce pain, swelling and bruising. It will reduce recovery time, and supports your emotional recovery from the trauma of surgery, alongside physical healing.
Hypericum
Hypericum is known as the ‘Arnica of the Nerves’. It is a very useful remedy where there is acute post-operative pain. It will also help in cases where the site of the surgery is acutely sensitive and painful to touch.
Calendula
Calendula is effective in preventing post-operative infection, and like Arnica can be used routinely. Calendula also promotes closure of surgical wounds (and because of this it is imperative they are kept scrupulously clean). In addition, Calendula is helpful in reducing pain, especially where the affected area is sore and tender. If the affected area is covered or internal, this remedy can be taken in potency (tablet or pillule form), and it can also be used in topical application* to support healing after minor surgery. *Use 5 drops of Calendula or Hypercal (a combination of Calendula and Hypericum) tincture to one tablespoon of cool boiled water.
Staphysagria
This remedy is frequently needed to aid recovery following abdominal or pelvic surgery, and especially following invasive procedures such as colonoscopy or catheterisation. It will assist in the healing of surgical incisions, especially where there is lasting pain and sensitivity. Staphysagria is indicated in problems following abdominal surgery, including painful colic that dates from surgery. This remedy will also help with the emotional impact of invasive procedures.
Bellis perennis
Bellis perennis is a remedy made from the European Daisy, and is in the same plant family as Arnica. It has some similar indications to Arnica in post operative healing, and it is often helpful where swelling and bruised soreness remains after treatment with Arnica. It is especially indicated following deep tissue procedures, including abdominal, pelvic or breast surgery.
Aconite
Aconite is best known as a remedy for fright and emotional shock, and it will be indicated if this is associated with a surgical procedure. It is also the main remedy to think of following any type of eye surgery, especially if there is significant pain, inflammation and photophobia.
China
China is known as a remedy for the effects of fluid loss after acute illness, such as vomiting and diarrhoea, and excessive perspiration. It may also be indicated in recovery from surgery where there has been significant haemorrhage, and will support the individual’s recovery (alongside other measures), especially where there is exhaustion and marked weakness.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is the main remedy to think of for the after effects of anaesthesia, including weakness and brain fog.
Causticum
Causticum is the main remedy to think of for retention of urine after surgery or labour.
Sticta
Sticta is a less well known remedy, and has a specific use for sleeplessness following surgery, including after setting of fractures.
Mag phos
Mag phos is one of the main remedies for neuralgic pain, and can be helpful in post operative pain, especially where the pain feels worse for cold and better for warmth and warm applications.
Ferrum phos
Ferrum phos is used after surgery of the nose and throat, to relieve soreness and reduce bleeding.
I offer personalised homeopathic treatment to support you after surgery or dental work. Appointments are either 20 minutes or 30 minutes long, and provide detailed advice about the most suitable remedies to support your recovery and reduce pain and discomfort. Appointments are via Zoom and can be booked here: https://karenleadbeater.co.uk/work-with-me/
Hello mam
I’m 61 yr old male who had a inguinal hernia surgery with polypropylene mesh on my left side on 6 th September 2023. Since then I am suffering from intense pain due to bone and muscle edema in my pelvic region. Pl suggest some medicine for decreasing edema.
Hello, thank you for your question. However this is beyond the scope of both home prescribing and simple recommendations on the blog. I recommend you consult a homeopath for professional care. Wishing you well, Karen
Last year operated of spinal hematoma .now I can’t feel urine without catheter. So please suggest me
Hi Shahbaz, this situation needs professional support in collaboration with your doctors. Best wishes, Karen
My has been operated for breast cancer removed tumor breast is intact.Post operation she is feeling pain.Can we give some homeopathy treatment to reduce pain and swelling in left shoulder and arm
Thanks
Thank you for your question. For post-operative recovery after breast cancer surgery, professional care is advisable rather than attempting self-treatment – the reason I say this is because each woman’s recovery is very individual and she may need a series of remedies over a period of time to minimise pain and support her recovery. That said, for general healing support after any type of breast surgery, I suggest you read up on Arnica, Hypericum and Bellis perennis, and also perhaps Staphysagria as a starting point. Best wishes, Karen
Sir I had a surgery for tongue cancer and right side lymph gland also removed during surgery. Radiation given as a follow up of surgery. Now I recovered fully and completely normal. I am not a diabetc nor I have any coronary problems. I am taking only 50 mcg thyroxine tablet daily. I have the problem of glue like lymphatic fluid accumulation in the throat, which is causing difficulty in swallowing. Can you suggest homeopathic medicines for my ailment.
Can you suggest a good homeopathic remedy that can be used to relieve gas pain post robotic/laprasxopic surgery?
Hi Karen, I suggest you read up on the homeopathic remedies Nux vomica and Carbo veg, and see if either of them fit your symptom profile. Best wishes, Karen
Karen, thank you so much and God bless you for taking your time and energy to share your knowledge! It is so helpful. Thank you!
I had my cataract operation on May 26th,After one month I am suffering from infection.Dr prescribed eye drops but pls suggest some homeopathy remedy. Pain is remaining permanently, feeling uneasy to keep the eye open,itching.
Through out pain in the surface of the left eye covering eyebrows and even at the conjunction of eye and nose.
Hi, post-operative infection is treatable with homeopathy, there are a number of homeopathic remedies that may be effective depending on your symptom profile, including Aconite, Staphysagria, Phytolacca, and Asarum. From this description there is insufficient information to make a suitable recommendation, and in any case in post-op infection it is advisable to consult a professional homeopath for treatment. Does the hospital where you had your surgery have homeopathic doctors available? If not I recommend consulting a homeopath in your local area. Best wishes, Karen
Hello Karen, thank you for this blog post and all the helpful comments. I’ve just come home from a rectocele/posterior vaginal wall corrective surgery. I’m in quite a bit of pain and due to multiple prolapse I am struggling with going to the toilet. I’ve taken Arnica and Staph. Any other recommendations? I really appreciate any insight you can share. Thank you 🙂
Hi Abbie, thanks for your question. The main remedy I would think of in this situation as a ‘broad spectrum’ post surgical support is Staphysagria. When you say you have taken it – it is important to dose correctly and for long enough. What potency did you take, and over what time period? What initial effect did you notice? With prolapse in the picture, you may benefit from a more detailed professional view, to differentiate the most suitable remedies based on your individual symptoms. Do respond regarding the Staphysagria, and I will help with dosage and potency if I can. Best wishes, Karen
What potency of hypericum and calendula should be taken after knee op and for how long
Many thanks
30c is a good potency for general first aid and post operative use. Length of time is more individual – take several times daily for the first 2-3 days, and after that be guided by your degree of improvement and pain levels. Consider seeking professional support if needed. Best wishes, Karen
1.Swelling on both sides of left ankle following a flap operation two months ago.No sleep for past 2 months .pl suggest homeo medicine.
Arnica 30 -daily 2 times -4 globules medium size.
Coffea 30 one time 4 pills night
Pl tell it is correct.calendula ointment dressing
Hi, thanks for your question. It is not possible to give professional advice this way, I recommend you consult a homeopath. If you are still taking Arnica two months after surgery, this suggests the Arnica is not supporting your recovery, and I strongly recommend you stop this remedy and seek professional advice for surgical healing. Likewise, if you have been taking Coffea nightly for a long time and your sleep is still poor, the Coffea could now be contributing to your poor sleep – I recommend you stop this remedy immediately. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen
Just home from toe surgery, fusion and pin. Used arnica before post op very successfully in speeding up healing. I have 30c tablets, but bottle says 2 every 2 hours for 6 doses which has covered off today! How long can I keep talking it for and what dose?
Hi Annette, thanks for your question. The key thing to remember with homeopathic dosing is that you adjust it according to your response to the remedy. If it is helping and you are healing well, you need fewer and fewer doses as symptoms subside. Arnica corresponds to the physical trauma of surgery – bruising, swelling and bleeding. Once these symptoms are taken care of after the first few days, you will likely not need this remedy any longer. If you are left with post op pain, other remedies may come in – perhaps Hypericum, for example. It is always best to dose according to symptoms, not on a protocol. One dose is one pill only – you don’t need to take two at a time (same stimulus with one, two, or a whole bottle taken at one time). Good healing! Best wishes, Karen
My daughter 24 years has undergone a surgery of medistanial mass of 17 C. M. on 27.11.2024. Her bleeding from surgical site is continuing for more than 15 days. Please suggest a remedy for faster recovery from bleeding.
Hi, there are a number of remedies that may help in this situation, including Arnica, Phosphorus, Millefolium, and Ipecac. However I would advise you to seek homeopathic support from a local doctor who can monitor your daughter’s condition, given she has had significant surgery. I hope that she makes a good recovery. Best wishes, Karen
I have piles surgery. Pls suggest homeopathic medicine to get recovered.
Hi, remedy choice depends on the symptoms you are dealing with following surgery – Arnica for bruising; persistent bleeding look at Hamamelis, Aloe, Collinsonia; constipation look at Collinsonia, Opium; for pain there are very many possibilities, including Arnica, Hypericum, Paeonia, Nitric acid. If you are unsure how to choose the best medicines for you, contact a local homeopath for support. Best wishes, Karen
I am having a single mastectomy and sentinel lymph node removal in a couple of days. Which remedies would be useful for me? I already have arnica.
Hi Helen, have a look at Hypericum, Calendula and Bellis perennis. I hope all goes well with your surgery. Best wishes, Karen
Hello,
I’m 45 tears old female and very recently have gone through hysterectomy surgery. After surgery, my scar is completely healed and no such pain in the place of surgery. The only thing is I’m not getting a tight hold on urination process and urination is quite frequent though there is no such infection in urinary track. Another thing is, the surgery was done through local epidural anesthesia. Considering it’s side effects, I wish to overcome if such problems occurs in near future.
Hi can calendula be taken straight after a lymphectomy?
Hi Tanya, thanks for your question. While Calendula is a specific remedy for supporting the healing of surgical scars, and assisting in prevention of suppuration, it is difficult to recommend its use after lymph node removal without knowing more about the case. For example, is there a specific concern you have which would lead you to wanting to take Calendula immediately following surgery? If you are working with a homeopath to support healing I would recommend you take the question to them, as they will know the details of your case and can give you a more personalised answer. Wishing you speedy healing. Best wishes, Karen
My naturopath told me to just take a single dose of Arnica after surgery whereas on the label it says 3 times a day. I don’t know why just one dose? It was laproscopic and my wounds are fine but I have a feeling of bruising internally and like my “guts” are loose inside. They removed my appendix and one ovary and said I had alot of scar tissue inside etc. Today will be 48 hrs since surgery.
Hi Alice, thanks for your question. While it is usually fine to take several doses of Arnica post surgery, if you are working with someone trained in homeopathy and experienced in prescribing, they will usually know what is best for your individual case. You also don’t mention which potency you have been advised to take, and this will also make a difference to the recommendations regarding repetition of dose. I wish you well with your recovery. Best wishes, Karen
Hi I’m recovering from surgery to my lower eyelid to remove a bcc – stitches have just been removed and I’d like a remedy to help the healing process thanks 🙏
Hi Kate, you can make a surgery mix for this type of situation, if more than one remedy is needed. Did you feel that any of the remedies listed match your symptoms? Have a look at Arnica, Hypericum, Calendula, Aconite. Best wishes, Karen
I went o an operation in feb, .paralysed after too much medicin during operation. Crohns , using medicins,
Have much dzziness , high summing in ears. Loosing esey loose balance. Have had these things the last yaers, but not so intense But i have SFN. Two attac, and sent to hospital. MR ok. I am 80 yaers old, earlier a hommopath.
Have you som help
I read an article where it said that chances of SFN increased after Covid 2
Hi….I’m going for a hip replacement and planning to use Arnica 200c afterwards…I was wondering if symphytum would be useful or any other post op homeopathy?
Hi Fiona, thanks for your question, and I hope all goes well with surgery. Symphytum is sometimes needed after hip replacement, though it wouldn’t be a remedy I would typically recommend. There are some others which may come in for you, depending on your individual recovery and the symptoms you experience. Hypericum is mentioned in the article, and this will be helpful if the symptoms fit. Bryonia is worth reading up on if you have pain worse on movement. If recovery is more complex, more individualised treatment can be helpful – you can book a post surgery focused appointment with me if you wish. Best wishes, Karen
Hello,
Going to have a melanoma in situ removed on my cheek amd will need skin grafting. Best homeopathy to take before, during and post surgery. I an extremely anxious.
Hi Deb, I hope your surgery goes well. For surgical recovery in this situation, I suggest you read up on the homeopathic remedies Arnica, Hypericum, Calendula and Staphysagria. I have written several blog posts on surgical recovery, including this one – choose the remedies that resonate with your concerns post surgery, and consider taking them in 30c for the first few days after. For anxiety, the remedy Aconite can often be helpful, and take a look at Back Flower Remedies Rescue remedy too. Best wishes, Karen
My wife gone contract surgery in May17th 2024 and till date she is with cloudy or blurry vision.please guide.
Hello Mam
I am 71 years male . I have undergone ‘ Left Hemicolectomy with diversion
ileostomy under GA ‘ on 23 March, 2024. However , leakage in anastomic site
( where the two parts are joined) developed after 2 weeks with infection at the site. Doctor has provided PCD for diversion of purulent fluid and advised me to wait for sometime to allow it heal automatically. However, this may take time because of my age etc. Again , the stoma can be closed only after the leakage is healed. Would you suggest any medicine to expedite the healing process. Regards,
Hi, thank you for your question. Unfortunately this is not a question which can be answered with quick first aid recommendations – I strongly recommend you engage a local homeopathic practitioner with experience in this specific area, and they will likely need to follow your progress for some time. If you are in India you may be able to access a homeopathic GI specialist in a local homeopathic hospital. I wish you well with your healing process. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen,
I’m 6 days post surgery for a mastectomy due to breast cancer, I’m taking Arnica 200 as a friend recommended it, is there anything else you’d recommend? Thank you.
Hi Michele, Arnica is a great place to start – this remedy addresses the physical and emotional trauma of surgery, supporting your recovery and helping with bruising, swelling and pain. The choice of further remedies, including dose, repetition and potency, is somewhat individual depending on your post-surgery symptoms. However I would recommend you read up on the following remedies and see if they fit your situation: Hypericum, Bellis perennis, Staphysagria, Calendula. If you would like more personalised remedy recommendations and support, you are welcome to get in touch via my website. With best wishes for a good recovery, Karen
excellent information and good advises
Thank you!
Hello, my female dog had ovariectomy 10 days ago. I gave her arnica and hyp/cal remedies, twice a day each until today, and she is doing very well. The scar is fully healed. The vet can see a little bit of internal swelling, due to the fact the stitches are internal and because she is more active than she should. I have just given her apis and arnica. Would you suggest staphysagria? Bellis?
Thank you
Hi Marie, I can’t offer professional advice, as I don’t know your dog’s case, of course. However if it is persistent swelling after surgery which has not resolved with Arnica, Bellis perennis would be worth looking at. I wish her a swift recovery! Best wishes, Karen
Excellent article. My body always responds really well to homeopathic medicine. I’m scheduled to have surgery to remove a plate and 7 screws in my ankle that I needed at the time I broke my ankle 20 months ago. My bones are now fully healed and my doctor agreed to remove the hardware as I can feel the screws head through my skin and I don’t like the idea of having that metal in my body. Which homeopathic medicine would you recommend to prepare for my surgery and to help the healing afterwards. I will have 2 surgical incisions and my bones will need to recover from the tiny holes left behind from the screws. Your advices would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Marie, no need to take remedies in advance, but post surgery Arnica is the first remedy to consider, followed by bone specific healing remedies – read up on Bryonia, Eupatorium perfoliatum, Symphytum, Calc phos, Hecla lava, depending on symptoms. Good luck with your surgery, I hope all goes well. Best wishes, Karen
Thank you Karen!
Do you suggest a remedy to help clear novacaine post dental treatment?
Thank you!
Hi Beverly, the choice of an appropriate homeopathic remedy rests on the individual symptoms the person is experiencing – there are a number of possible remedies for the lasting effects of dental anaesthesia. These include Phosphorus, Opium, Ipecac, Amyl nitrosum and Hypericum, depending on what you are dealing with. You could read up on these and see which one fits best, or consider working with a homeopath with a focused acute appointment if you would like professional support. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen
I just want to say what are truly useful article. I trained in homeopathy but have never practised. I do however use it all the time as first stop health care for the family.
One of the family has nose surgery coming up and this article was perfect for pointing me in the direction of remedies to consider post op beyond arnica, hyp, cal, etc.
Thank you and sending many good wishes to you x
Hi Michelle, thank you for your comments – I am so pleased to hear you found the article useful. Wishing your family member speedy healing from their surgery! Best wishes, Karen
I’m 4 days past Mohs surgery, right beside my nostril, for basal cell carcinoma. Dr had to make inverted V shaped incisions from my nostril down. What’s best for healing & scaring?
Hi Paula, the homeopathic approach to healing after surgery is to match remedies according to your experience and where they body needs help. If you are healing well, homeopathy may not be needed at this stage. You may want to look at various topical options to prevent scarring, once the area has mostly healed and there is no broken skin. Have a look at Calendula oil and Rosehip oil as a starting point. Best wishes, Karen
HI Karen thanks so much for this article its brilliant! My 20 year old son has just had ankle surgery. I have him on Arnica but he is really struggling post op with pain, shakes and nausea. I read through your other answers but can’t see one for sickness and feeling like he needs to vomit which I think is from the anesthetic so wanted to ask for any suggestions for that and also to help his healing in his ankle (its his third op for this) so I think there is also alot of emotional stress connected to it. Any help so appreciated 🙂
Hi Andrea, so glad you have found the article useful. Regarding the post-op pain, if the main feature of the pain is aggravation from the slightest movement, then Bryonia is worth looking at. Phosphorus is mentioned in the post for problems after anaesthesia, and this would include nausea, so it is worth trying. I hope this is helpful. Best wishes, Karen
What a fantastic blog Karen!
Thanks Tiffany 🙂
Hi Karen, I just want to Thank You for your awesome blog. What an amazing source of information and I am grateful to have found this info prior to my hip replacement surgery, which was 6 weeks ago. I used Arnica, Bellis perennis and Calendula and am feeling great! Blessings to you.
Hi Annemarie, thank you for taking the time to comment – I am so pleased you have found my blog helpful! I hope you continue to heal well :). Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen, I’m soon going to have an op called Colpocleisis. Apart from Arnica please could you recommend any other remedies? I also have MS ( I’m 65)and have been told my recovery maybe slower so just want to be on top of things before it happens! Don’t think I did very well with anesthesia when I had a Hysterectomy 25 years ago. Thank you in anticipation.
Roxana
Hi Roxana, thanks for your question. Arnica is a good option after any type of surgery, as it has a broad spectrum match to physical trauma to the tissues, and will help with bruising and swelling, as well the emotional effects of surgery. Beyond Arnica I would hesitate to recommend anything further without knowing more about your case, and how things are for you post surgery – everyone responds differently, and it is important to match the remedies to what you are experiencing. You are welcome to use the information in the blog post to self treat as symptoms arise, or many homeopaths (including myself) offer short focused post surgery appointments to discuss remedies. Good luck with your surgery, and I hope you recover well. Best wishes, Karen
My husband had a triple bypass surgery about a year ago. He still has an itching sensation at the sternum where it was broken to conduct the surgery. Is there a remedy for this internal itching feeling.
Hi JoAnne, I assume nothing has been found by your husband’s primary care physicians on examination? If nothing else is amiss, you could take a look at the remedy Symphytum – it covers stitching pain and irritation at the point of a fracture, and also problems with old injuries including fractures. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen.
What a great page to read comments and answers
My non verbal Down syndrome sister has been in and out of hospital for 2 months and is severely traumatised by the experience. She has a few ERCP of bile duct and then gall bladder by laproscroposy removed. I’ve been giving her arnica 30c and chamomilla 30c. Plus arnica cream on bruised sites. Would you recommend this toxic 39c as well? Or any other remedies. She is sleeping a lot and resting. We live in a little town in Western Australia and there are no local homeopaths.
Thank you.
Thank you Karen for your reply. The doctor has examined him thoroughly, and said it could take time. So I will heed your advise and try Symphytum. Regards JoAnne
I had a surgery 15 days back to remove lump on my belly.
Today the stitch is removed. Pus is oozing out from a small portion.
Shall be obliged, to get your advice.
Hi Gaurdas, for infection concerns after a surgical procedure, you should primarily follow the advice of your surgeon about suitable treatment. If they are agreeable to you using homeopathic remedies, there are a number of possible remedies depending on your symptom profile – these include Calendula, Gunpowder, Hepar sulph, Silica, Belladonna and Pyrogen. If you have access to a local homeopathic doctor who can examine you and take a more detailed case, this would be advisable. I hope you heal well. Best wishes, Karen
Hello Karen,
Is there a homeopathic remedy that can be taken to stop internal bleeding from micro tears around the knee meniscus? Would Arnica 200 be helpful? Or is there a more specific remedy for this type of injury? Thank you!
Hi Valerie, the choice of remedies will depend somewhat on the symptoms you are experiencing (eg the extent of swelling, nature of the pain, and so on), however I suggest you read up on Ruta grav as well as Arnica, and see if this fits the picture of your symptoms. I wrote a blog post on recovery from knee injuries, which you may find helpful: https://karenleadbeater.co.uk/homeopathy-for-knee-injuries-eight-remedies/. Best wishes, Karen
Using warm oil massages along with homeopathic remedies can provide great relief for joint pain, especially in colder weather
Very nice 🙂
Hi,
My female friend, who is mid-60’s had right hip replacement surgery about 6 weeks ago. She is experiencing numbness in thigh area, stiffness in ankle, and her recovery is slow.
I’m sorry to say that she is a smoker.
I’ve been using homeopathy for over 30 years, but I’m not sure what to suggest, except for arnica, of course.
Thanks so much!
Hi Colby, you are right that Arnica is the first remedy to think of after surgery, but after 6 weeks it should have done its work. For recovery from hip relacement other remedies that can be helpful include Bryonia, Hypericum, Ruta, Rhus tox, and Symphytum, among others – depending on the symptoms experienced. Regarding the numbness, it is difficult to know what might be causing this, as it is not so typical a symptom in this situation. Has the surgeon suggested any reasons for the numbness? Best wishes, Karen
Hi karen! I recently had to get stitches on the outside of my lip, and I was looking for natural remedies to help reduce scarring, hyper pigmentation, and to help speed up the recovery time. I currently can’t put anything on the site until the wound is closed, but I was wondering if you think I’d be a good candidate for calendula orally? Also, if you have any other natural remedies, you think I should try out while it heals or on the site after the wounds are closed?
Hi Holly, the homeopathic approach would be to use Calendula in potency, taken orally. You can take this safely at this stage. There are various other remedies that might support healing, depending on what you are experiencing. For example, as the area is rich in nerves, if the site is tender or painful, read about Hypericum and see if this might fit your symptoms. Wishing you swift healing! Best wishes, Karen
I went through the piles – Internal & external , Fisher surgery a month ago .
Doctor advised to use tropical cream for two 2-3 time/ day . The wound is almost filled but burning and pain is there . Taking Sitz bath of low warm water with Bitadin solution. Kindly advice Homeopathic treatment too . Best Regards. Sunir
Hi, suitable remedies will depend on your symptom profile. Assuming you have taken Arnica as a first step? You could read up on the following remedies and see if any of them fit your symptom profile: Collinsonia, Bellis perennis, Staphysagria, Calendula. Alternatively, consider seeing a homeopathic doctor in your region. Best wishes, Karen
I have just found this blog at 07:30 Feb 3,25 for the first time. Our 14.5 year old standard poodle will undergo another surgery to remove various lipomas of which two are fluid filled. He has had a mast cell growth removed at age 9 from his side. I have used homeopathic and tissue salt remedies for 30 years
with varying degrees of success. And it is with this dog I have witnessed quick response possibly due to his clean lifestyle. But what weighs on me is how can he be protected from the antibiotics and strong NSAID (Dermaxx) after surgery. I have Arnica at 6x and D30 and a pharmacy of other remedies and salts, both classical and complex. Thanking you for a reply from Canada.
Hi Shelley, I am happy to reply with additional remedy suggestions for you to read up on for post-surgery. Arnica will help with bruising, swelling and bleeding following physical trauma of surgery. Regarding your question about protecting from the effects of antibiotics and NSAIDs, this is harder to do, homeopathically speaking. This is because the choice of homeopathic remedies depends on how the pharmaceuticals specifically affect the individual person or animal – like cures like. Rather than a ‘one size fits all’ approach, we need to individualise to see positive benefit. Do you have a particular concern following previous surgery? Were there symptoms last time that you are concerned about recurring? If you can say more this might help with individualising. Best wishes, Karen
So grateful for your reply. Because this surgery was less invasive than his last which was a digit removal due to cancer, not uncommon to black coated dogs, he is less confused because of less NSAID’s. But the usual box of antibiotics must be given and he ingests a biologically species appropriate probiotic with humic and fulvic acids fours hours after. So day one after surgery, he is gently pacing from crate to our bedroom but nothing like past surgeries where he looked like he was on a mission. Arnica 30ch was given after surgery yesterday and two more doses today and one dose of full spectrum CBD. He is eating and taking water and is pacing only to get something he needs. I suppose my question now is what remedy could help to release this blockage that is causing these growths (lumps). His bloodwork identified a slightly higher than normal liver enzyme which could be age related, along with yeasty ears. My belief in homeopathy and TCM is strong but I lack the discipline to cross reference. Hence, my ask. Thank you for any suggestion.
Ps, silicea dislodged foreign matter from his nostril(possibly a piece of quill) and I hoped this could be the remedy for his growths.
Hi Shelley, thanks for your reply and further question. Homeopathy is a flexible form of medicine that can be used in many different situations. It is absolutely safe and can be very effective to self prescribe, and give remedies to family and your own animals, for acute and first aid situations, including post-operatively. When it comes to chronic issues, including cancer, this is deeper and much more complex, and self treatment, or first aid type remedy recommendation, is not advisable. I strongly recommend you work with a homeopath who works with animals. Here in the UK this needs to be a vet who is also trained in homeopathy. I am not sure what the situation is where you are. Good luck and best wishes, Karen
Greetings, I had hip replacement surgery 3 weeks ago, I took arnica 30c before surgery. After surgery I had a lot of pain and bruising so I started taking arnica 30x, 2-3 tablets twice a day. Since most of the bruising is gone now I’ve been taking 2 tablets as needed for pain. First question how long can I safely continue to take arnica? Second question, what can I take to heal femoral nerve trauma? And third what should take for insomnia, so far what I have tried is melatonin, valerian, lemon balm, l-theanine and diphenhydramine. I haven’t slept more the 2 consecutive hours in almost a week. Thanks in advance!
Hi Jennifer, thanks for your question. It is important to adhere to the minimum dose principle regarding continuing with a homeopathic remedy. The key things to remember are to take the minimum number of doses needed to create the change you are looking for, and only to continue the dose as long as the symptoms are there (but improving) and the remedy is still helping. In other words, as needed for pain is just right, and only continue if each dose helps. If there is no improvement, reconsider remedy choice. For nerve trauma the first remedy to read up on is Hypericum, and see if this matches your symptom experience. For insomnia, this needs to be more individualised to your sleep disruption patterns and accompanying symptoms, so would need a more detailed profile. Best wishes, Karen
Thank you again for your reply, Karen. You are absolutely correct that my solution requires a deep dive with an animal homeopath. We will consult with our holistic DVM when she returns from vacation. In Canada, homeopathy is not as well understood as in Britain and Europe. Websites, like yours, are invaluable and to offer a Q&A is generous and “brilliant”.
Best in health to all of you from across the pond.
Hi Shelley, I do hope you can access good healing support, and please reach out in future if needed – I will always try to assist wherever I can! Best wishes, Karen
Thank you for your helpful blog! My partner (58yo male) is preparing for a full knee replacement surgery in a couple of days. He’s keen to make the quickest possible recovery through physio, while I hope to compliment this with good food and homeopathic remedies. Whilst I’ve used Arnica in the past myself, I’m not really sure how best to prepare. I don’t have any homeopathic supplies at home, so wondered if you can make a reasonably priced recommendation on basics best to have to hand, or get as and when required, please? Thank you, Gail x
Hi Gail, thanks for your question. If you are in the UK you can purchase remedy kits and single remedies from Helios Pharmacy. A remedy kit is very cost effective, and usually you will find most of the remedies you need in their Basic 36 kit, depending on your partner’s exact remedy requirements. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen, Wow you are so helpful in your comments. I am having a wisdom tooth pulled this week. I have Arnica 30c on hand but is there a “surgical grade” Arnica that is a different concentration for recovery? I’m having a hard time locating that answer in my searches. Can I just take what I have on hand?
Hi Andrea, yes homeopathic remedies come in different potencies – for first aid use the main potencies used are either 30c or 200c. 200c may be more indicated in a situation where the symptoms are severe and intense – eg right after surgery, an injury or accident, for example. If you can get 200c you could take that instead of 30c. That said, 30c will be fine. I recommend you add a pellet to a glass of water, and dose regularly during the first few hours after surgery, reducing frequency of doses (one sip = one dose) as the pain, swelling and bleeding reduce. Best wishes, Karen
Thank you so much Karen… this is very helpful… I had a friend who had dental surgery and took something called Sinecch : Homeopathic Arnica Montana 1M HPUS, Homeopathic Arnica Montana 12C HPUS. He said he had barely any swelling or bruising. I wasn’t sure if that product would be more effective than the 30C potency. I could try to purchase it, but if 200C or 30C would work similarly I would do that. Any final words of wisdom? Much appreciation…
Hi Andrea, Arnica 1M (or 1000c) is the next step up from Arnica 200c. I don’t generally recommend higher potencies than 200c for home use – they are best taken under professional guidance in most cases. Higher is not necessarily better! 200c is fine under these circumstances. It sounds as though your friend took both a high and a low potency together (1M and 12c) which would not usually be necessary. HPUS just means ‘Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States’. Best wishes, Karen
wonderful! thank you Karen… Your generosity in answering these questions is much appreciated!
Hi karen. I had a wisdom tooth extraction almost 3 weeks ago and it is still swollen and painful like hell. Ive been taking arnica 200c regularly since surgery but no change. Dentist said theres no complications after looking at my XRay but i desparately need relief. Please help
Hi Gea, has your dentist ruled out dry socket? This is a common complication of dental extraction. If it is dry socket, the main remedy here is Ruta grav. Arnica is generally helpful only in the early stages after dental work, as it corresponds to the acute trauma, with bruising and bleeding. After three weeks it is important to stop taking it. If you continue a remedy with regular dosing when it is no longer producing ongoing improvement, you risk ‘proving’ the remedy, and thus may start to experience new symptoms. The pain sensation will otherwise guide remedy choice in many cases – if there is throbbing pain with inflammation this may indicate Belladonna, if there is shooting neuralgic pain, this may indicate either Hypericum or Hecla. Best wishes, Karen
I will be having hip resurfacing in April and wanted to know how soon to take calendala after surgery and following arnica? Also the dosage for calendala and space o time between doses?
Hi Kathleen, you can take remedies immediately after surgery, and in the case of post-surgery pain relief and healing support, you can take a mix of remedies according to the symptoms you are experiencing. Calendula is good if you are concerned about preventing infection, Arnica for bruising, swelling and pain. You might like to look at Hypericum, Bryonia and Symphytum also. 30c potency would be appropriate, and you can add one pellet of each to a glass of water, dose as needed for the first few days. Best wishes, Karen
Thank you for the response. Should the water be distilled or reverse osmosis sufficient?
Filtered water is fine, so long as you use plain unflavoured drinking water.
Just to be clear on dosing ; l can take one pellet of calendula and arnica plus symphytum in one dose mixed in water?
I love your working knowledge!
Hi Kathleen, yes you can safely combine remedies specifically for injuries/surgery – this is a unique situation in that there is a clear external rather than internal cause. This is different from the treatment of chronic health problems, where we would choose one medicine that matches the symptom pattern of the whole person. I hope this helps. Best wishes, Karen
Hello, My father (age 72) has undergone spine (L4-L5 decompression surgery 1 month back. After surgery he is facing problem of Post Operative Urine retention. He is not being able to pass urine. However, he is feeling the sensation of urine while his bladder is full. Presently intermittent Catheterisation is being done to empty the bladder. As per Urologist, it may be recovered in 3 to 6 months.
You are requested to advise some homeopathy for this ailment.
Hi, the main remedies for post-operative urine retention are Causticum, Apis and Cantharis. The selection of the correct remedy for your father would be based on a more detailed description of his symptoms, and the potency and dosage would need to be individualised according to his case. If he is in hospital you would be well advised to see if they have a homeopathic doctor who can help you. Best wishes, Karen
I was in a car accident and fractured my ankle in several places. I am in a lot of pain. I am taking arnica for bruising but I need something for pain after weaning myself off of opioids and Tylenol.
Hi Debra, you might find some of the remedies described in this blog post helpful for pain management: https://karenleadbeater.co.uk/homeopathy-for-managing-acute-pain-twelve-remedies/. For fracture support I suggest you look in particular at Arnica, Hypericum, Bryonia and Eupatorium, in 30c or 200c. Best wishes, Karen
Thanks so much for the golden wealth of knowledge Share! This is brilliant. I have a simple question, for simple ailment after blood draw would you recommend Arnica and Ledum or just Arnica?
Hi Joselyn, so glad you find the information helpful! Choice of remedy after blood draw depends on the symptoms experienced. If bruising, the main remedy is Arnica, and Ledum if bruising persists and is eased by cold applications. If there is pain, you could also consider Hypericum. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen
I’m a big believer in homeopathic n tissue salt remedies n have found silica very good for me especially as I approach 60.
I had a full hip replacement last year n wonder whether silica would no longer be a good idea.. Ie would it affect my new hip in a negative way?
Thanks Gail from NZ
Hi Gail, this is a great question! Silica has such a reputation for its ability to push out foreign bodies, that often caution is advised whenever joint replacements or even dental implants or fillings have been introduced. In my experience, with joint replacement (or dental procedure), it is very unlikely that Silica tissue salts would destabilise the joint/implant, and I have never come across a case where this has happened. That said, it is important to be sensible, and perhaps review regularly, only taking for as long as it is definitely needed, and building in breaks. The only scenario where I recommend avoiding Silica completely is in the case of a heart pacemaker, since even the smallest disruption in function would be dangerous: better safe than sorry in this case. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen.
What a blessing to come across your site today. My grandson is having a frenectomy for a labial and tongue tie. I was thinking Arnica, Staph, and Hypericum in a 30c for pain relief and healing. He is 12 weeks old. Thoughts? I am currently a student of homeopathy.
Hi Michele, my first recommendations for healing after frenectomy are Arnica and Hypericum – so you are spot on with those. Staphysagria is also a good thought. You could consider 200c for post surgery if needed. You can dissolve one pellet of each in water and give a teaspoon dose regularly for pain relief. I hope all goes well! Best wishes, Karen
I trained as a homeopath but never really practiced, just for friends and family. I would like to assist the healing for someone after keyhole surgery for endometriosis (both to remove the tissue and “unstick” the adhesions). I’m considering the obvious arnica, bellis perennis, maybe hypericum and phosphorus (for the effects of the anaesthetic is necessary). However I wasn’t sure about calendula (orally) in case it created more adhesions, which obvious wouldn’t be good! Do you have any thoughts about this?
Hi Vanessa, thanks for reaching out. Yes I agree regarding Calendula – it will heal clean external wounds promptly, but is not indicated for internal adhesions. The main remedy here is Thiosinaminum. I generally recommend it in 6X or 12X potency, given once or twice daily for a period of time. Alongside other indicated remedies for surgical recovery this is usually helpful for adhesions. Best wishes, Karen
This is the best information page I have found relating to homeopathic remedies…….. I had an MRI Scan 3 months ago which showed s bulged disk at s1 L5……been having physio (electro acupuncture and manipulation therapy) the back pain has all but disappeared, however I have been left with nerve issues, caused my the bulge pressing on the sciatic nerve. I am still experiencing quite severe tingling, pins and needles, and a itchy/ crawling sensation especially in my lower leg, ankle and outer side of foot………I’ve bought 30c arnica tablets, the directions advise 2 tablets x 6 times for the first day but just says “as needed” – what would you advise me to take to help heal the nerves – thank you
Hi Amanda, thank you for your kind comments! Regarding nerve pain specifically, you might like to read up on Hypericum to see whether this might fit your symptoms better than Arnica. Re dosage – bottles often say to take a number of tablets at a time, but there is no need – one pill or tablet is enough for a dose or stimulus of the remedy each time. If you decide to try Hypericum, take 30c twice daily for three days initially, then review progress. If it is helping, you can continue as long as the improvement builds, then taper off the dose once the improvement is substantial. If symptoms persist, consider consulting a homeopath for a more personalised prescription. Best wishes, Karen
Hi, I had an episiotomy 40 years ago during childbirth and the student cut too much, resulting in my needing 20 stitches instead of one. I still get niggling pain in the area and it’s prone to occasional groin strain injury as there seems to be some weakness there. I went to a physio but they were not helpful and did not seem to understand the issue.
Hi Lin, thanks for your question. The long term effects of episiotomy problems are beyond the scope of self treatment, I would say. Though depending on the details, homeopathy may be helpful here – eg if the problem is related to nerve damage, remedies such as Hypericum, Xanthoxylum, Arnica and Bellis perennis may be indicated. I suggest you contact a homeopath to discuss further. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen, I’m having cataract surgery next week and plan to take Arnica and Calendula post surgery. Is there anything else that you would recommend? I’ll probably need several doses of Aconite before the surgery to calm my fears.
Hi Lorraine, yes Arnica and Calendula should be helpful. I suggest you also take Aconite as a priority – it is known as the ‘Arnica of the eyes’ and is indicated after eye injuries and surgery to support recovery and reduce pain. Thus it will be helpful both for your pre-op anxiety and for surgical recovery. Take a look at Staphysagria too. Best wishes, Karen
Thank you Karen
Hi! Question about hypericum- in an effort to calm the nerve of a tooth down and hopefully avoid a root canal post a deep cavity fill, I started taking hypericum in a 30c. There is no infection present.
My question: Is hypericum safe to take for a month or more as my tooth heals?
Thank you signed,
A dental professional who also studies homeopathy. 🙂
Dear Jana,
This is a really good question. There are two main types of dosing in acute prescribing. The first is more straightforward, where we are dosing for acute pain or an infection, for example, where we are looking for an immediate shift in symptoms. This might include a cold or influenza, acute dental pain, menstrual cramps or headache, or acute nausea. In this situation I would usually advise taking a regular dose, with the interval depending on intensity of symptoms (eg from every 10 minutes to every 3-4 hours), *stopping the dose* as soon as there is improvement, resuming upon return of symptoms or waning of the response.
The second approach is in acute prescribing where we are not expecting an immediate healing response. This might include blunt trauma injuries, fractures, ligament or tendon injuries, for example. In this case we are not likely to experience an immediate shift, and dosing is intended to support gradual recovery by supporting and amplifying the body’s natural tendency to heal. In this case a regular dose – eg once or twice daily – of a low potency over a period of time, is more appropriate. In this case it is important to review the healing response regularly and stop the dose if any new symptoms appear, or if healing is not progressing well. Proving symptoms are a risk in regular dosing, so vigilance is advisable.
In your case, the aim is to ‘calm the nerve down’, so if there is pain, it falls more into the first category of dosing. I would expect Hypericum to act quickly on the nerve, and repetition can then be according to the symptoms, rather than routine. Routine dosing of Hypericum can easily slip into proving, which would amplify the pain temporarily – and best avoided! If you are finding that Hypericum is not really changing anything over the first few days, I recommend reconsidering the remedy choice. I hope this helps. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen, hopefully you are still responding to questions? Great information here! I am due to have ankle surgery, to straighten it. I’m thinking that Arnica would be good to take immediately after surgery to help the healing process and pain but I also take Turmeric, Ginger and black pepper for arthritis, with great success. I’m concerned about the interaction between Arnica and Ginger. Would it be advisable to stop the ginger while taking Arnica? And how long should I take Arnica, I’m thinking short term? Lastly what dose of Arnica should I take? Your help would be much appreciated.
Hi Roz, thanks for your question. First of all, no need to be concerned about interactions between homeopathic and non-homeopathic medicines. Homeopathic medicines are potentised (which refers to pharmacy preparation where they are diluted and succussed to release their dynamic healing properties and render them non-toxic), and this means they do not interact with nutritional supplements or other medicines. The usual advice is to take homeopathic medicines with a ‘clean mouth’ to allow them to work well – ie do not eat, drink (except plain water) or brush teeth for 10 minutes or so before and after each dose. Arnica has a broad action in supporting the healing of physical trauma, and as such is almost always indicated as a first step after surgery. You might also read up on Hypericum and Bryonia for surgery involving bones and joints. I can’t of course offer personalised advice on dosing as I don’t know the details of your case. But as a general rule, taking post-surgery Arnica in a 30c potency can be repeated every 1-2 hours in the first day or two after surgery (or taken in water and sipped regularly). Reduce frequency of doses as pain and swelling reduce, and taper off completely after a week or so. Wishing you well with the surgery! Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen,
I just wanted to thank you very much for the wealth of information and advice you so kindly offer on your website. You are fantastic! I qualified as a homeopath 2 years ago and use homeopathy with the family although I do not have a professional practice….one day maybe…..
A family member had an accident on the bike and got 5 stitches on upper lip. I used Arnica initially and also Calendula, both orally and 30c potency. The scar has healed well but he says that it does catch when he shaves and it is also somewhat itchy. I was thinking if Silica, Calendula or maybe Graphite could help with the scaring? Or would you have any other suggestions. The scar is a little bit raised, no pain and not red.
Thank you so much for your help.
Hi Claudia, thanks for your kind words! Regarding your family member’s scarring: with itching and slightly raised skin after stitches, you could look at Silica, Phosphorus (which is listed in the repertory under ‘Formication in scars’), and also perhaps Thiosinaminum. Consider a low potency repeated for a short period. You could also consider Rosehip oil or Calendula oil topically, as both these are known to be useful in reducing scar tissue. Best wishes, Karen
You have left out one of the most important remedies for the post-surgical recovery, Phosphoricum acidum. Most serious surgeries produce lingering fatigue, mental and physical, and this remedy covers it very well. Phos ac is a combination remedy where Phosphorus deals with the toxic effects of the anaesthesia while Acidum, as do all the acids, treats the weakness and fatigue.
Hi Helen, thanks for your input. I have not ‘left out’ any homeopathic remedies. There are a huge number of remedies used in supporting patients during surgical recovery – the rubric ‘Generalities, Operations, after’ has 136+ remedies, for example. Those I chose to write about are a small selection of those I use regularly with my clients. Writing about all of them is beyond the scope of a blog post. As a practitioner, you are free to choose your own favourites! I must point out that Phosphoricum acidum is not a ‘combination’ remedy though. Combination remedies are those which are a mix of two or more different homeopathic remedies given together. Phos ac is a compound which is a chemically unique substance, which has some of the features we associate with Phosphorus, but has its own unique symptom profile. Best wishes, Karen
Hi Karen, thank you for your blog post. I’m scheduled for diastasis recti surgery, that includes hernia repair and extensive abdominal wall repair with liposuction and tummy tuck to get rid of excess skin. This is due to three pregnancies with very large babies and I’m 5’1. I was slightly underweight before I first got pregnant. I have problems with sibo that flared up a ton after this last pregnancy and I’m hoping to be able to begin to address them after surgery but my gut is sensitive. I will be under 5 hours. I would welcome any suggestions for a protocol while I’m recovering.
Hi April, thanks for your question. I hope all goes well with your surgery. I hope you have found the remedy information in the blog post helpful. The main remedies I would be thinking of for abdominal surgery recovery are Arnica, Calendula, Staphysagria and Bellis perennis. A good potency for this purpose is 30c. You can safely take remedies 1-3 times daily for several days post surgery, and then adjust dosage according to your progress. To support your recovery with homeopathy, you might do best to consult with a homeopath in your region for individualised care, especially in regard to the SIBO. With best wishes, Karen
Hi, I came across your website while I was searching for some helpful information prior to my husbands surgery coming up. My husband is having a vasectomy reversal in a few weeks and I would really like to help him manage his pain and healing process with homeopathy. So far everything I have read is pointing to using Arnica for the pain in the immediate post op period. This is a very delicate procedure obviously, as they are reconnecting the vas deferens. He is just having local anesthesia. Recovery for this procedure is at least 8 weeks, very strict instructions on not lifting, stretching, pulling, and bending for 8 weeks. I am afraid to use something that will increase healing time and possibly negatively affect things by closing the vas deferens with scar tissue from healing quickly. If you could give me some insight on this and what you think might help, that would be awesome. Thanks!
Hi Bailey, thanks for your question. Well selected homeopathic remedies would support healing and reduce the likelihood of infection or complications. They certainly would not increase healing time. Arnica would be a good place to start – it is indicated for the initial stages of healing post-operatively, and will address trauma to the tissues and help reduce swelling and bruising. Among the other remedies that may be helpful, I would recommend you look at Hypericum, Calendula and Staphysagria, and if there is concern about scar tissue or adhesions, Thiosinaminum is a consideration. It is fine to self treat, though if you would like personalised care for your husband’s specific case, you could consider engaging a homeopath in your region. I hope all goes well with the surgery. Best wishes, Karen