Phosphorus

The glowing element phosphorus, one of homoeopathy's major remedies, traditionally linked with hoarseness, chest colds, easy bleeding and sensitive, sociable people.

Phosphorus is a non-metallic element that glows faintly in the dark, which gave it its name, meaning light-bearer. It is essential to life, being part of bones, teeth and every cell. White phosphorus catches fire in air and is highly poisonous; homoeopathy uses it only in specially prepared form.

It is one of homoeopathy's major remedies. Homoeopaths traditionally associate it with tall, slender, warm and sociable people who tire easily and are sensitive to light, noise and storms. Its picture includes hoarseness and tight, dry coughs, small wounds and nosebleeds that bleed freely, a burning stomach and a strong thirst for cold water.

• Hoarseness
• Dry chest cough
• Easy bleeding
• Nervous sensitivity
• Thirst for cold drinks