Hypothermia is diagnosed when the rectal temperature is below 35¡C (95¡F). A slowing of pace, stumbling and cramps are usually followed by euphoric confusion. This occurs most commonly when mountaineering. Victims needs shelter from the wind and cold, and warmth, say, by using a shared sleeping bag. Camphora 1DH, three doses to be given at 15 minute intervals (J H Clarke, The Prescriber: A Dictionary of the New Therapeutics, Rustington, Sussex: Health Science Press, 1972: 134).A hot bath will quickly restore body temperature. If there is some frostbite, but no gangrene, the affected parts should be slowly rewarmed and dressed with cotton wool dressings. Gangrenous parts require amputation.

Haemorrhaging should be treated with strict rest, reassurance, avoidance of excitement and all stimulants, and, whenever the haemorrhage is external, the application of pressure for 20 minutes. Sterile cellulose alginate (made from seaweed) Achillea millefolium 3CH should be administered (W Boericke, Homoeopathic Materia Medica, New Delhi: B Jain, 1990: 444), with the possible addition of Menadione (vitamin K3).

In the case of oligaemic shock due to haemorrhage, or plasma or electrolyte loss blood flow is increased to vital centres by raising the foot of the stretcher or couch. The patient should be allowed to lie undisturbed, kept warm and given fluids by mouth, where possible. Stimulants and alcohol should be avoided. Hypericum perforatum lDH should be given every four hours (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 1971; 21: 1999).

Septic conditions should be treated with Echinacea angustifolia , 20 drops, every two hours, and larger doses (Zeitschrift fuer Phytotherapie, 1981; 5: 166). To be used locally at the same time as a cleansing and antiseptic wash, it has been shown to be a broad spectrum bacteriostatic as well as producing a comprehensive resistance enhancing effect. Pyrogenium (Pyrexin) 6CH administered intercurrently every four hours can also be considered.