Mercurius corrosivus, a concentrated chemical preparation of mercuric chloride, is usually only used medicinally by homeopathic practitioners, often as a means of treating ulcers. Certain kidney problems and digestive issues may also warrant use in small amounts. Homeopathy typically follows teachings to “treat like with like,” which in medicine often involves the use of heavily diluted toxins and poisons to treat inflammation and perceived toxicity in the body. Mercuric chloride compounds are usually quite harmful if ingested in large quantities, and aren’t normally used in more streamlined pharmaceuticals or medications. Most experts advise caution when self-dispensing this compound, though it’s normally so diluted when prepared by trained homeopathic practitioners that it doesn’t present significant risks.
Understanding the Compound Generally
Mercury chloride is a corrosive chemical that carries the chemical formula HgCl2 and is normally considered a potent poison. It is synthesized by combining liquid mercury and hydrochloric acid in the presence of heat. The compound has a number of industrial uses, particularly as a catalyst for a chlorine-related chemical reactions. It’s usually only called mercurius corrosivus when it’s been diluted and packaged for use in homeopathic medicine; in almost all circumstances, that particular name is exclusive to homeopathic circles.
Role in Homeopathy
Homeopathy uses micro-doses of a substance believed to cause illness in order to bring about its cure. For example, the practice teaches that a minute amount of mercuric salt might cure kidney stones formed by excess salt in the human body. Early homeopathic doctors experimented with toxic substances seeking their curative powers. They tested these theories on humans in a process called “drug proving.”
An early concept in homeopathic medicine based treatment on the color and shape of plants, fruits, and vegetables. Walnuts were used to treat brain disorders because of their shape and resemblance to the organ. Yellow plants were linked to bile and used to cure liver conditions.
One theory behind the use of mercuric salts involves the temperament of people who develop ulcers and other inflammations of the bodily tissues. Mercury is sensitive to heat and cold, becoming a liquid at room temperature. Early homeopaths believed volatile people responded to the compound because they shared similarities with how mercury reacts to change. They also believed people who live near the sea reacted more favorably to salts in the compound. These beliefs still persist in some communities, though most of the compound’s modern use is based on anecdotal claims of success.
Treatment of Ulcers
Homeopathic practitioners most commonly use the compound to treat ulcerative colitis, a condition that causes diarrhea and bloody stools. This disorder might stem from chronic ulcers that go untreated. Ulcers caused by excess gastric juice might erode the lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to severe pain. The bladder might also be affected.
Symptoms of ulcers in the mouth usually produce pain, trouble swallowing, excess saliva, and swollen glands in the throat area. A patient might feel like his or her teeth are becoming loose as gums become inflamed. The pain might pulsate to the ears and produce pus. When the condition also involves the throat, the patient might experience bouts of coughing and pain near the larynx.
It may also relieves symptoms of ulcers in the mouth and throat, as well as on ulcers impacting the cornea. These ulcers might make the iris appear muddy or blurred, and also usually produce intense pain.
Kidney Problems
Kidney stones are formed by salt crystals that block ducts carrying urine into and out of the kidneys. Stones can cause pain and bloody urine as they pass out of the body. Homeopathic practitioners often consider mercuric chloride compounds as a potential cure for kidney stones and related inflammation or infection.
Easing Digestive Issues and Intestinal Troubles
Mercurius corrosivus might also ease the symptoms of tenesmus, which is an unnatural urge to defecate marked by pain, straining, and cramping. It has also been used to ease constipation and bowel inflammation; some practitioners recommend it widely for almost any sort of intestinal distress or digestive problems, whether related to ulcers or not.
Risks and Common Precautions
It isn’t usually recommended that people self-medicate with this or other homeopathic remedies in part because of the risk of making things worse rather than better. People trained in the art and science of dispensation often blend the tinctures precisely and on a per-person basis; commercial blends can be used, but normally only when following specific dosing instructions from a professional.