Tissue salts helping winter health

The tissue salts are a type of biochemical cellular therapy using minerals, developed over 140 years ago by German medical doctor and chemist Dr Wilhelm Heinrich Schüssler. Dr Schüssler found that there are 12 inorganic minerals present in the body in very small quantities, which he called ‘tissue salts’. These tissue salts are catalysts in building the millions of cells of which the body is composed. Dr Schuessler considered a proper balance of the tissue salts necessary for normal cell function and to maintain good health.

Tissue salts are readily available in most health food shops and pharmacies. Because they’re using trace amounts of minerals, there is little risk of overdosing. They’re user-friendly for most people by following the recommended instructions on the label for both acute and chronic situations. Generally suitable for all ages, although slow dissolving tablets may need to be crushed or dispensed in liquid so that they don’t present a choking hazard in the very young or frail. As with Homeopathic medicines, tissue salts are quite versatile – traditionally having been used for a broad range of health issues.

Below are some tissues salts which are often used for winter ailments. They might be of use for you too.

Ferr Phos (Iron phosphate) – Ferr Phos is considered the ‘first aid’ tissue salt as it is associated with the first stage of illnesses, such as when there is inflammation and elevated temperature. Traditionally it is often taken frequently at the very early stages of an acute illness, until symptoms subside.

Kali Mur (Potassium chloride) – Should symptoms progress to the next stage of a head cold, Kali Mur is often considered. This is where they maybe thick white discharges. The tongue may appear white coated. Ears may become blocked. There could also be swelling the glands (Kali Mur is considered a glandular tonic).

Kali Sulph (Potassium sulphate) – This is when mucus turns thick and is a yellowish or greenish colour. There may be chills and fever. Symptoms often feel worse in the evening or a closed, stuffy environment – better in the open air.

Calc Phos (Calcium phosphate) – Often used after a cold in the recovery process. Calc phos was traditionally used for when mental or physical exertion or cold make the person feel worse and where warmth and rest make the illness better.