The Biochemic Principle: Understanding How Tissue Salts Work
In the 1870s, Dr. Wilhelm Schuessler developed the biochemic system of medicine, based on his research into the inorganic components found in human cells. He theorized that these 12 mineral salts, when in proper balance, were essential for healthy cellular function. According to his theory, if a deficiency or imbalance occurs at the cellular level, common ailments or disease may manifest. Tissue salt tablets are designed to be easily absorbed micro-doses of these minerals that are meant to stimulate the body's self-healing responses by restoring the essential mineral balance within the cells. The tablets are typically dissolved under the tongue for rapid absorption.
The 12 Essential Tissue Salts and Their Individual Uses
Each of the 12 Schuessler tissue salts is associated with specific bodily functions and symptoms, and they can be taken individually or in combination. Below is a list outlining the claimed uses for each:
- Calc Fluor (Calcium Fluoride): Supports tissue elasticity, used for conditions involving weakened connective tissues like varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and cracked skin.
- Calc Phos (Calcium Phosphate): A cell restorer vital for bones, teeth, and overall growth. It aids in fracture healing, strengthens bones in children, and supports digestion.
- Calc Sulph (Calcium Sulphate): A blood purifier that helps with skin conditions like acne, pimples, and boils, and also speeds up wound healing.
- Ferr Phos (Iron Phosphate): Considered the 'first aid' tissue salt, it aids in carrying oxygen in the blood and is used for inflammation, fevers, and the initial stages of colds.
- Kali Mur (Potassium Chloride): Often used for conditions with thick, white discharges, such as glandular swellings, sinus congestion, and some types of skin issues like eczema.
- Kali Phos (Potassium Phosphate): Known as the nerve nutrient, this salt helps with nervous tension, stress, irritability, fatigue, and headaches.
- Kali Sulph (Potassium Sulphate): Important for skin, hair, and mucous membranes. It's used for yellow or slimy discharges, flaky skin, and helps balance the metabolism.
- Mag Phos (Magnesium Phosphate): An anti-spasmodic remedy used to relieve cramps, shooting pains, muscle twitching, nerve pain, and hiccups.
- Nat Mur (Sodium Chloride): This salt regulates the distribution of water in the body, helping with both excessive moisture (runny nose, watery eyes) and dryness (dry skin, constipation).
- Nat Phos (Sodium Phosphate): An acid neutralizer used to relieve excess acidity, heartburn, indigestion, and sour belching. It also helps with symptoms of gout and rheumatism.
- Nat Sulph (Sodium Sulphate): Supports the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, and is used for symptoms of liver issues, water retention, and gastric biliousness.
- Silica (Silicon Dioxide): A cleanser and strengthener for connective tissues. It's used for conditions affecting skin, hair, and nails, and helps expel toxins from the body.
Tissue Salts vs. Homeopathy: A Comparison
While tissue salts are often sold and prepared according to homeopathic pharmaceutical principles, there are important distinctions between the two systems.
| Feature | Tissue Salt Therapy | Homeopathy |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Developed by Dr. Schuessler based on biochemistry. | Developed by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann based on the 'law of similars'. |
| Substances | Exclusively uses micro-doses of the body's 12 essential mineral salts. | Uses a broad range of substances, including plants, minerals, and animal products. |
| Dilution | Prepared in low potency (e.g., 6X) with measurable amounts of the substance remaining. | Typically uses much higher dilutions, often so diluted that no original substance remains. |
| Mechanism | Replenishes mineral deficiencies at a cellular level. | Stimulates the body's healing response based on matching symptoms. |
| Prescribing | Based on the specific mineral deficiency and its associated symptoms. | Based on the totality of an individual's physical and psychological symptoms. |
How to Take Tissue Salt Tablets and What to Consider
Tissue salt tablets are typically small, lactose-based pellets that are meant to be dissolved under the tongue. This allows for direct absorption through the mucous membranes of the mouth. For children under five, tablets can be crushed and dissolved in a small amount of water.
While tissue salts are generally considered safe due to their minimal dose, it's always wise to consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen. This is especially important for pregnant or nursing individuals. It is also crucial to remember that tissue salts are not a replacement for conventional medical care, and any concerning symptoms should be addressed by a doctor.
Conclusion
Tissue salt tablets offer an alternative health approach based on the 19th-century biochemic theory of Dr. Schuessler. By providing the body's cells with micro-doses of 12 essential minerals, they aim to correct imbalances and support the body's natural healing capabilities. While anecdotal evidence is abundant, scientific research on their effectiveness is limited. Users of tissue salts appreciate their natural, gentle nature and targeted support for a wide range of common ailments, from muscular cramps to digestive and skin issues. As with any wellness approach, a knowledgeable understanding of their purpose and a consultation with a healthcare provider are recommended for safe and informed use. Further information on alternative health practices can be found at the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
