Natrum phosphoricum is a homeopathic remedy commonly known as sodium phosphate. Homeopaths prescribe it for excess lactic acid that is the result of eating too much sugar. During the production process, sodium phosphate is repeatedly mixed with either lactose powder, distilled water, or alcohol. Although there are no actual molecules of the original ingredient once dilution is completed, homeopathic doctors believe that the electromagnetic signature of the original element remains and is responsible for healing. There have been no peer-reviewed studies or other scientific evidence that natrum phosphoricum works as claimed.
In making natrum phosphoricum, diluted sodium phosphate is mixed with either powdered lactose, distilled water, or alcohol. Then one part of that mixture is again diluted with powdered lactose, distilled water, or alcohol. This is repeated numerous times until the desired potency is reached. The final product is made into small, white tablets that dissolve when placed under the tongue, or bottled as a tincture.
According to homeopathy, the symptoms of lactic acid build-up include a yellow, creamy coating on the roof of the mouth near the throat and on the tongue, sour vomiting, an inflamed throat, colic, and gas. In conjunction with these physical symptoms, the patient may experience some odd mental symptoms. If the patient experiences nightmares, for example, natrum phosphoricum may be the homeopathic remedy that will help the patient's body heal itself.
Natrum phosphoricum may be recommended when the patient has a pale, bluish cast of the face, canker sores and blisters on the tip of the tongue, or rheumatism in the knee. This homeopathic remedy reportedly helps people with rheumatic arthritis, conjunctivitis, worms, and diabetes. Gastric problems, such as heartburn or indigestion, diminished energy in the morning, and nervousness all may indicate the need for this remedy. According to homeopathic medicine, all of these signs and symptoms are due to lactic acid build up.
A potency of 6x is given to patients who need cell salts replaced. It is prescribed at 30x potency for other conditions. The dosage for acute symptoms is usually four tablets each hour. When used as a tonic, the dosage is four tablets four times a day.
There are no properly controlled studies indicating the effectiveness of natrum phosphoricum. All evidence is anecdotal, which means that it comes from the experience of the patient or doctor. Conventional doctors are generally skeptical of homeopathic medicine and attribute any successful treatment to the placebo effect.
Sodium phosphate has no known side effects. Despite this, anyone thinking about using it should consult with a doctor first. This is especially true for pregnant or nursing women, those with chronic health conditions, and children because no formal tests have been done to prove it is safe for these populations.
