The substance known in the scientific world as phosphoric acid is known in the world of homeopathic medicine as phosphoricum acidum. This man-manipulated mineral is used in small doses as a home herbal remedy to treat emotional ailments resulting from stress and exhaustion, such as apathy, listlessness, grief, and others. It is used for certain physical ailments as well, and is an important ingredient in various manufacturing industries.
Phosphoricum acidum is extracted from phosphorous. In nature, phosphorous is found as apatite, a crystal-like substance found in certain types of rocks. When sulfuric acid and calcium phosphate are combined, phosphoric acid is produced.
This substance is most popularly used in homeopathic medicine. Homeopathy, which garners worldwide popularity, is defined by the phrase "like cures like." In other words, a treatment should be similar to the ailment, or to substances which may aggravate the symptoms in large doses. This concept is similar to that which is manipulated in influenza vaccinations in Western medicine in which a small amount of the influenza virus is injected into the body to build resistance in the immune system. Most homeopathic cures require small, diluted doses, and only one remedy is meant to be used at a time for various ailments.
Of the many ailments phosphoricum acidum is meant to cure in homeopathic medicine, many result from stress. Mental and physical exhaustion, apathy, grief, insomnia coupled with fatigue, lethargy, and listlessness are all treated with phosphoric acid. It is believed that the initial tell-tale symptoms of these ailments include appetite loss, a thirst for sweet or fruity tasting beverages, difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, and cold sweats. In large doses, however, this substance would be likely to aggravate such ailments and symptoms.
Experts in homeopathic medicine claim that the best candidates for phosphoricum acidum treatment are people with overall calm and gentle personalities, who may be experiencing grief or trauma which they have a profound difficulty properly dealing with. The treatment should not, however, be viewed as a complete cure. It is recommended that a phosphoricum acidum regimen is accompanied by gentle exercise, plenty of rest, and physical warmth.
Phosphoric acid has several uses outside of the realm of homeopathy as well. In the past, it has been used as a digestive stimulant. It may help reduce elevated calcium levels in potential cancer patients, fight against hair loss and diabetes, prevent digestive tract-related dehydration, and provide relief in children suffering from growing pains. Additionally, phosphoric acid is an ingredient used in sugar refining, various medicines, detergents, fertilizers, and rust removal products.