Another branch of homoeopathy is the use of tissue salts or cell salts (also known as biochemic salts). Tissue salts were first discovered in the 19th century by a German Homeopathic physician named Dr W H Schuessler. He analysed human blood and discovered 12 basic minerals salts, coming to the belief that a proper balance of these salts in the human body were necessary for good health.
Tissue or cell salts are not as potent as
homoeopathic remedies (usually 6x) and are believed to be safe for use during pregnancy, labour and after the birth and can be self-prescribed. Some women use them to help muscle cramps, spasms and pains during prelabour and early labour. They are also used for stress, tension, depression or irritability.
Tissue salts come in tablet form and are usually dissolved under the tongue (rather than swallowing them). Instructions for their specific use and dosages are generally on the individual tissue salt containers.
The following table is a guide to the twelve tissue salts and their potential applications.
Calc. fluor. (Calcium Fluoride). Stretch marks, varicose veins, haemorrhoids and muscular soreness. Promotes strong tooth enamel.
Calc. phos. (Calcium Phosphate). Low vitality and indigestion. Promotes the development of bones, blood, muscles and glands.
Calc. sulph. (Calcium Sulphate). Skin aliments, pimples and slow healing wounds. Promotes healing after the birth if stitches were required.
Ferr. phos. (Phosphate of Iron). Inflammation, fevers, sore throats, anaemia and muscular aches. Promotes strength in the blood vessels and arteries.
Kali. mur. (Potassium Chloride). Congestion, colds, coughs and respiratory ailments.
Kali. phos. (Potassium Phosphate). Nervous tension, depression and irritability. May help with insomnia and lack of energy. Generally recommended in times of stress and tension.
Kali. sulph. (Potassium Sulphate). Skin problems, brittle nails and poor hair condition.