General characteristics

Shock is a physical condition that involves dangerously low levels of blood (and therefore oxygen) being supplied to the organs, tissues and cells i.e. the cells oxygen demand is greater than the supply available to them. Due to low oxygen supplies, the cells begin to produce lactic acid and the body compensates by increasing the heart beat, constricting the blood vessels and reducing the urine output to maintain blood volume and flow. Blood supply is then directed to the most vital organs such as the brain, heart and lungs in order to ensure survival.

The three main causes of shock are a malfunctioning heart, loss of blood volume and systemic septicaemia. Severe burns, anaphylactic allergic reactions, dehydration, bleeding, anything disrupting or obstructing blood flow such as embolisms and clots, severe infection, excessive urination (due to diabetes for example), thyroid disease, adrenal malfunction, overdilated blood vessels and many other medical conditions can result in shock to some degree or another. An extremely emotional or stressful situation may also bring about the earlier symptoms of shock.

Symptoms of shock will vary depending on the stage of shock you are in and the causes of shock but include rapid heart beat (the heart tries to pump harder to compensate), a decrease in urine output (to maintain blood volume), cold sweaty skin, breathlessness and rapid breathing (in an attempt to obtain more oxygen), weakness, anxiety and confusion (when blood supply to the brain is low), shivering, yawning, sighing, thirst, low blood pressure and pale complexion. In septic shock the skin is flushed and the temperature rises rapidly.

The cause of the shock needs to be identified and treated alongside procedures to maintain oxygen, fluid and blood supply. Shock should be treated immediately you suspect it by a medical professional as the end result of untreated shock can be death or severe organ damage.

Useful herbs

Cayenne (capsicum or chilli) is the most useful herb to promote and balance blood flow and help to restore heart and blood vessel function. Take a few drops of tincture or a pinch of powder in water by mouth if possible at the first signs of shock. If the shock is due to blood loss, internally or externally increase the dose to a teaspoon in hot water to stop the bleeding and stabilise the circulation. Experienced herbalists state that cayenne can be used even if the person is unconscious.

For shock that is brought on by emotional trauma skullcap and valerian tea may help.

Rescue remedy is a specific for emotional shock.

Arnica can be very useful for both emotional and physical shock. The homoeopathic version is safest but you can also use arnica tincture, 5 drops under the tongue every 3-4 hours.