Sun, sun, sun here it comes…
by Mary Aspinwall, Registered Homeopath.
As you soak up those rays, probably the last thing you
want is someone raining on your parade, but something’s
shaking in California! Researchers at the University there
warn that though sunscreens do protect against sunburn,
there is no scientific proof that they protect against melanoma
or basal cell carcinoma in humans.
Consumers in L.A are asking for class action status in a
lawsuit against manufacturers of leading sunscreen brands
citing defective product labelling regarding UVa protection,
water proofing and duration of applications. They believe
parents are unwittingly exposing their children to danger
because of misleading claims.
In fact, they believe the false sense of security people
get from using chemical sunscreens is the primary cause
of the skin cancer epidemic. People using sunscreen might
not get as sunburned because sunscreens are formulated to
absorb UVb radiation, however they let most of the longer
UVa rays through. These penetrate deeper into the skin and
are absorbed by the melanocytes, which are involved both
in melanin production (sun tanning) and in melanoma (cancer)
formation.
On the other hand, some exposure to sunlight is helpful
as it triggers vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D maintains
blood levels of calcium and phosphorus, helping to form
and maintain strong bones, so (as with most things) the
answer lies in moderation.
Tanning tips.
Avoid exposure during the hottest part of the day from 11am
–3pm.
Wear a hat to protect the delicate skin on your scalp.
Buy sun-proof swimming gear for kids with long sleeves and
legs.
Cover up immediately, if you feel even the slightest discomfort.
PRACTICAL HOMEOPATHY A useful guide for you to cut out
and keep.
Sunburn
Most homeopathic pharmacies produce very effective burns
creams or ointments. Usually the main ingredient is Urtica
urens (nettles). Keep a tube in your beach bag. The following
internal homeopathic medicines are also extremely effective…
Urtica urens 6 or 30c
Excellent for relief of moderate sunburn.
Cantharis 6 or 30c.
For sunburn with blistering. Great for other burns too.
Sunstroke
Is a potentially dangerous condition where the body’s
cooling mechanisms become overwhelmed then fail. Seek medical
assistance immediately.
Move sufferer to a cool area. Increase ventilation by opening
windows or using a fan. Encourage them to drink water, but
do not give aspirin or paracetamol, try one of the homeopathic
medicines listed below. Gently massage the skin to encourage
circulation. If convulsions start, move nearby objects to
prevent injury. If the patient is unconscious and vomiting,
move them into the recovery position (on their side with
airways clear).
Belladonna 6c or 30c.
More extreme sun burn with throbbing headache and photosensitivity.
Also useful in cases of sunstroke.
Glonoine 6c or 30c.
Sunstroke with mental confusion, violent bursting headache,
palpitations, nausea and vomiting.
Cuprum Metallicum 6c or 30c
Sunstroke with cramps.
Arsenicum 6c or 30c
Sunstroke with nausea, vomiting and restlessness.
In Homeopathy there are only two golden rules for successful
prescribing
1. Match the symptoms carefully to the best homeopathic
medicine you can find.
2. Take one pill. If you feel better there is no need to
repeat unless the same symptoms return.
© Mary Aspinwall
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