Although Arundo donax, or giant reed, is mostly known as a valuable energy crop, it has been for a long time utilised as a bio homeopathic medicine as well. This tall, perennial cane contains indole alkaloids that have a high bufotenine content. Plants and fungi that contain indole alkaloids have a long history of use in traditional medicine, to help fight off pain.
The tincture of the homoeopathic remedy is usually made from the roots of giant reed, and it is used to treat allergies that manifest themselves by unbearable palate and ear irritation – among other conditions.
A homeopathic cure for ear-nose-throat (ENT) problems
Arundo Donax as a bio homeopathic medicine come in granules and prescribed for treatment of spasmodic coryza or seasonal rhinitis caused by allergies and that result in itching or tingling sensations in the ears and palate. Arundo homeopathy can also be used as preventive treatment against hay fever and to prevent it from evolving into sinusitis or asthma. Furthermore, this bio homoeopathic remedy is highly effective against constant sneezing. Arundo donax can also be administered from the beginning of seasons during which allergies tend to appear, that is to say in early spring and/or summer.
Recommended doses for ENT treatment
In case of severe nose or palate irritation, 5 granules of Arundo Donax 7 CH, three times a day is recommended. In case of ear canal itching, the recommended dosage is 5 granules of Arundo Donax 5 CH, to be taken three times a day from the onset of the first symptoms. Furthermore, to prevent a recurrent allergy, take 5 granules of Arundo Donax, six months before summer or spring. To treat allergic rhinitis followed by nasal congestion, take five granules of Arundo Donax 7 CH three times a day until the symptoms disappear. If they persist despite taking the remedy, a medical consultation is necessary.
Treatment of respiratory problems
Since Arundo donax is a bio homoeopathic remedy which is rich in bufotenin, it can also be helpful in treating inflammations that occur in the respiratory tract. However, it must be pointed out that Arundo homeopathy in this case is mainly used to relieve the pain caused by the inflammation – not the inflammation itself.
Arundo homeopathy for the eyes
Arundo donax is considered to treat effectively allergic conjunctivitis that comes with allergic rhinitis, but also conditions caused by intolerance to pollen, dust or mites. Moreover, the remedy can reduce excessive tearing caused by this disease, thus soothing itchy and irritated eyes.
Recommended dosage in ophthalmology
To prevent allergic conjunctivitis, take 5 capsules of Arundo Donax 7 CH in the morning and evening before meals, three months before summer or spring. To prevent excessive tearing due to the illness, take 5 capsules of Arundo Donax 7 CH, 3 to 6 times per day depending on its severity.
Arundo homeopathy – the traditional way
In the list below some of the traditional – even ancient – ways of using giant reed as a medicine can be read. These information do not constitute medical advice in any shape or form.
- A potion of giant reed is said to stimulate menstrual discharge and derease milk flow.
- A paste of the root when applied to the forehead is said to be an appropriate and effective treat for headaches.
- Isolated alkaloids have been experimentally shown to raise the blood pressure and contract the intestine and uterus.
- The rhizome or rootstock is used in the treatment of oedema.
- Boiled in wine with honey, the root or rhizome had been used for treating cancer.
- The plant contains the alkaloid gramine. This is said to be a vasopressor, raising the blood pressure in dogs after small doses, causing a fall in larger doses.
- The stems had been used as splints for broken limbs.
It should be noted that Arundo homeopathy is especially beneficial for children. However, it cannot be used as basic treatment and it should not replace allopathic medicine.