Chilblains

A chilblain is a vascular accident. An originally rather sluggish circulation in an exposed part, at a distance from the central cardiac pump, is further slowed down and stagnated by cold. As a result the local blood-vessels become engorged, their walls damaged and distended, and leakage of serum occurs. This produces the well- known symptoms of local redness, swelling, itching or burning.
This condition once established tends to right itself as soon as the weather warms up, but exposure to radiant heat, proximity to the fire, can only increase the leakage of serum and make matters worse.
Prevention is of the greatest importance; protection from undue chilling is essential both indoors and out. One exposure to undue



cold can do damage which will take weeks to put right. Warmth of hands and feet must not be sacrified on the altar of fashion in hosiery or footwear. Gloves should be loose-fitting and warm. Ears should be protected in very cold weather.
Homoeopathic remedies will help recovery when chilblains have occurred. As treatment may have to be continued for a period the lower potencies, e.g. 6c, should be used:
AGARICUS much burning, itching, marked redness, WORSE when cold.
CALCAREA CARBONICA the feet especially are damp and cold; RELIEF from cold.
Nux VOMICA in thin, tense, irritable patient who hates wind.
PETROLEUM much burning and itching, with cracks, chaps and split finger tips.
PULSATILLA condition WORSE from heat and from letting limb hang down; patient craves air, may be tearful or irritable.
As external applications the mother tincture of TAMUS COMMUNIS or CALENDULA may be painted on, or either RUTA ointment or TAMUS ointment rubbed on.