Ferrum phosphoricum is a substance made primarily from iron and phosphorus that is used as a homeopathic remedy. It's also referred to as ferrum phos. Some of the conditions this remedy might be recommended for include fevers, colds, indigestion, reduced energy levels, and many others. In homeopathic medicine the remedy chosen must match the patient's personality type as well as the symptoms; ferrum phosphoricum is suggested for easily tired, nervous and sensitive people who aren't excessively concerned with their symptoms. It is a commonly used remedy that is often suggested as one to keep at home by practitioners of homeopathic medicine, also known as homeopaths.
The name ferrum phosphoricum comes from the Latin and translates as "iron phosphate," which is also a commonly used name for the substance, and it's prepared using iron sulfate, phosphate, and sodium acetate. This mixture is then diluted to a minute concentration of active ingredients using water or alcohol, and shaken thoroughly a specific number of times. Once prepared properly, it is made into a pill or liquid form for patient use.
There are commercially prepared remedies available, or it can be prepared by a homeopath. The dosage varies depending on the complaint, and the remedy should be taken alone with nothing to eat or drink for at least 20 minutes afterward.
Of the many different homeopathic remedies available, ferrum phosphoricum is one of the most widely used. It can be used to treat an array of complaints such as coughs with chest pain, laryngitis, red or swollen tonsils, sore throats, beginning ear infections, and slow starting fevers. Ferrum phosphoricum can also be used with digestive problems such as stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea, and for menstrual issues in women. Fatigue, nosebleeds, anemia, and heart palpitations are also reputed to respond to treatment.
A homeopath looks at the whole patient when determining treatment and a patient who might respond to ferrum phosphoricum is supposed to fit a specific personality profile. The typical patient would be easily tired, nervous, anxious, and sensitive. He or she would often bleed easily and be a restless sleeper with disturbing dreams. In spite of this personality, he or she would not appear too concerned about the symptoms that require treatment, often acting like nothing is wrong.
Because most homeopathic remedies are so heavily diluted, there isn't any documented danger of ferrum phosphoricum interacting with other drugs and causing harm to the patient. In addition, most homeopaths only use one remedy at a time and won't recommend additional doses or alternate remedies until he or she is sure that the first is not working in the desired way. This practice is called minimum dosing and also helps to reduce the possibility of dangerous interactions. Ferrum phosphoricum has no documented side effects, but some homeopaths note that symptoms may temporarily get worse before improvement begins.