Homeopathy
71. CHOCOLATE
Chocolatum
Chocolate.
Key Uses:Fear of cars, accidents, illness, dogs, or being attacked Feelings of estrangement Great clumsiness and heaviness in the limbs, and constriction in the chest or head associated with nervous disorders Withdrawal and antisocial behavior
Origin : Made from the fruits of the Theobroma cacao tree, native to Central America and grown in other tropical areas.
Background : Used for centuries by the Maya and Aztecs in a bitter drink called xocolatl, cocoa was brought to Europe by Christopher Columbus in 1502. The Europeans then gradually developed this import into the chocolate that has become so popular in modern times.
Preparation : Dark, high-cocoa-mass chocolate is triturated with lactose sugar.
Remedy Profile : This remedy is primarily used for a classic state of mind rather than a set of physical symptoms. People for whom Chocolate is best suited tend to lack concentration and to feel anxious, vulnerable, and self-conscious, as if they are being watched. They are prone to fears of cars, accidents, illness, dogs, or being attacked. They may feel estranged from loved ones, and believe that they do not belong anywhere. This state of mind can develop into withdrawal and antisocial behavior, associated particularly with a reluctance to talk and a desire to be alone in the evening.
Although used chiefly for emotional states, the symptom picture for Chocolate may include physical symptoms such as constriction in the chest or head, and nervous disorders associated with great clumsiness and heaviness in the limbs.
Symptoms Better : For warmth; for being covered up.
Symptoms Worse : In the evening; on waking; for eating chocolate or sweets; for drinking tea.
Chocolate.
Key Uses:
Origin : Made from the fruits of the Theobroma cacao tree, native to Central America and grown in other tropical areas.
Background : Used for centuries by the Maya and Aztecs in a bitter drink called xocolatl, cocoa was brought to Europe by Christopher Columbus in 1502. The Europeans then gradually developed this import into the chocolate that has become so popular in modern times.
Preparation : Dark, high-cocoa-mass chocolate is triturated with lactose sugar.
Remedy Profile : This remedy is primarily used for a classic state of mind rather than a set of physical symptoms. People for whom Chocolate is best suited tend to lack concentration and to feel anxious, vulnerable, and self-conscious, as if they are being watched. They are prone to fears of cars, accidents, illness, dogs, or being attacked. They may feel estranged from loved ones, and believe that they do not belong anywhere. This state of mind can develop into withdrawal and antisocial behavior, associated particularly with a reluctance to talk and a desire to be alone in the evening.
Although used chiefly for emotional states, the symptom picture for Chocolate may include physical symptoms such as constriction in the chest or head, and nervous disorders associated with great clumsiness and heaviness in the limbs.
Symptoms Better : For warmth; for being covered up.
Symptoms Worse : In the evening; on waking; for eating chocolate or sweets; for drinking tea.
72. CHIONANTHUS
Chionanthus virginicum
Fringe tree.
Key Uses:Biliary colic Gallstones Headaches, especially those associated with nervous tension or menstruation, or accompanied by digestive upsets Jaundice Liver pain accompanied by colic, cramps, vomiting, and intestinal discomfort
Origin : Native to the US but now also found in eastern Asia.
Background : Traditionally used to treat mouth ulcers, spongy gums, and eye inflammation by native Americans and early European settlers in the 18th century.
Preparation : The chopped bark of the fresh root is macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Chionanthus is most appropriate for those who are insular, melancholic, and gloomy, with hypochondriac tendencies. They feel “played out,” apathetic, and listless, and may develop nervous exhaustion.
The remedy is generally used for liver problems such as jaundice, gallstones, and biliary colic, with the characteristic fatigue. Liver pain is usually accompanied by colic, cramps, vomiting, and the feeling that the intestines are being spasmodically squeezed. The stools may be pale due to lack of bile. Another key use of Chionanthus is for headaches, especially those associated with nervous tension or menstruation, or accompanied by digestive upsets.
Symptoms Better : For lying on the abdomen.
Symptoms Worse : For movement; for jarring.
Fringe tree.
Key Uses:
Origin : Native to the US but now also found in eastern Asia.
Background : Traditionally used to treat mouth ulcers, spongy gums, and eye inflammation by native Americans and early European settlers in the 18th century.
Preparation : The chopped bark of the fresh root is macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Chionanthus is most appropriate for those who are insular, melancholic, and gloomy, with hypochondriac tendencies. They feel “played out,” apathetic, and listless, and may develop nervous exhaustion.
The remedy is generally used for liver problems such as jaundice, gallstones, and biliary colic, with the characteristic fatigue. Liver pain is usually accompanied by colic, cramps, vomiting, and the feeling that the intestines are being spasmodically squeezed. The stools may be pale due to lack of bile. Another key use of Chionanthus is for headaches, especially those associated with nervous tension or menstruation, or accompanied by digestive upsets.
Symptoms Better : For lying on the abdomen.
Symptoms Worse : For movement; for jarring.
73. CHIMAPHILA
Chimaphila umbellata
Prince’s pine, ground holly, pipsissewa, umbellate wintergreen.
Key Uses:Men's complaints, such as enlarged prostate, urine retention, and a feeling that there is a ball in the pelvis Urinary tract disorders, such as painful urination, obstructed urine flow, and cystitis with blood in the urine
Origin : Found in North America, Asia, and Europe.
Background : By the 19th century this native American remedy for sweating and fevers was adopted by European settlers for rheumatic pain and urinary problems.
Preparation : The whole, fresh plant, or aerial parts in flower, are steeped in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Those who respond best to this remedy tend to feel restless and hot but seem unable to sweat. They tremble inwardly, yet are outwardly calm and stable.
Chimaphila is used chiefly for urinary tract problems such as painful urination and obstructed urine flow. It is given for cystitis with blood in the urine and great urging to urinate despite an empty bladder. In men it is also prescribed for an enlarged prostate, urine retention, and a feeling that there is a ball in the pelvis.
Symptoms Better : For walking.
Symptoms Worse : For cold and damp; for sitting on cold stone; on starting to urinate.
Prince’s pine, ground holly, pipsissewa, umbellate wintergreen.
Key Uses:
Origin : Found in North America, Asia, and Europe.
Background : By the 19th century this native American remedy for sweating and fevers was adopted by European settlers for rheumatic pain and urinary problems.
Preparation : The whole, fresh plant, or aerial parts in flower, are steeped in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Those who respond best to this remedy tend to feel restless and hot but seem unable to sweat. They tremble inwardly, yet are outwardly calm and stable.
Chimaphila is used chiefly for urinary tract problems such as painful urination and obstructed urine flow. It is given for cystitis with blood in the urine and great urging to urinate despite an empty bladder. In men it is also prescribed for an enlarged prostate, urine retention, and a feeling that there is a ball in the pelvis.
Symptoms Better : For walking.
Symptoms Worse : For cold and damp; for sitting on cold stone; on starting to urinate.
74. CHINA SULPH
Chininum sulphuricum
Quinine sulfate.
Key Uses:Heavy, aching limbs Joint pains Recurrent fever, possibly due to malaria Severe head pain Sinking sensations when lying down Tender, sensitive spine Tinnitus
Origin : Chemically prepared.
Background : This compound is one of the quinine salts used in conventional medicine to treat malaria (see page 49).
Preparation : The compound is dissolved in alcohol, diluted, and succussed.
Remedy Profile : A great fear of impending misfortune or extreme anxiety about the future is typical in those most responsive to China sulph. They often seem bad-tempered, nervous, indifferent, weepy, and depressed. They may have difficulty naming objects.
Classic physical symptoms linked to China sulph. include heavy, aching limbs, joint pains, and a tender, sensitive spine that feels worse for pressure. There may be a sinking sensation when lying down, as if falling through the bed. The remedy may also be used for tinnitus, severe head pain, and recurrent fever, possibly due to malaria. Symptoms often recur at the same time each day, particularly at around 3 p.m.
Symptoms Better : For cold compresses; for yawning; for bending forward; for pressure on the affected area.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for touch; at particular times of day; at around 3 p.m.
Quinine sulfate.
Key Uses:
Origin : Chemically prepared.
Background : This compound is one of the quinine salts used in conventional medicine to treat malaria (see page 49).
Preparation : The compound is dissolved in alcohol, diluted, and succussed.
Remedy Profile : A great fear of impending misfortune or extreme anxiety about the future is typical in those most responsive to China sulph. They often seem bad-tempered, nervous, indifferent, weepy, and depressed. They may have difficulty naming objects.
Classic physical symptoms linked to China sulph. include heavy, aching limbs, joint pains, and a tender, sensitive spine that feels worse for pressure. There may be a sinking sensation when lying down, as if falling through the bed. The remedy may also be used for tinnitus, severe head pain, and recurrent fever, possibly due to malaria. Symptoms often recur at the same time each day, particularly at around 3 p.m.
Symptoms Better : For cold compresses; for yawning; for bending forward; for pressure on the affected area.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for touch; at particular times of day; at around 3 p.m.
75. CICUTA
Cicuta virosa
Water hemlock, cowbane.
Key Uses:Nervous system problems, such as stuttering, hiccups, sudden, strong jerks, or spasms Petit mal fits, epilepsy, or violent convulsions Skin disorders, often involving pustules that leave yellowish scabs, such as impetigo or eczema
Origin : Found in swamps and wet places in Kashmir and the Arctic.
Background : The name “cowbane” derives from the fact that grazing on the plant can transmit a potentially fatal disease to cattle.
Preparation : The fresh root, gathered when the plant is in bloom, is chopped and macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Cicuta has an affinity with the nervous system and is used both for nervous temperamental conditions and for physical disorders of the nervous system. It is generally given to people who behave childishly and do absurd things. They may be wild, delirious, and overexcited, or exhibit great sensitivity to sad stories and to the happiness of other people. Alternatively, they may be distrustful, despise other people, and have an aversion to society. Their memories can go blank for long periods. Classic physical symptoms associated with Cicuta focus on spasmodic effects on the nervous system, ranging from stammering and hiccups to sudden, strong jerks and spasms. Petit mal fits with long absences may be treated with the remedy, as may epilepsy or violent convulsions accompanied by facial contortions and severe backward twisting and arching of the head and neck.
The remedy may also be used for some skin disorders, often involving pustules that leave yellowish scabs, such as eczema or impetigo. The head and face may be most affected, or the whole body may develop chronic eruptions that itch, burn, and crust. A craving for chalk may occur, as may an inability to distinguish what is edible.
Symptoms Better : For warmth; for arching the head, neck, and spine backward; for dwelling on pain; directly after eating.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for being touched or jarred; during sleep; for noise; if skin symptoms are suppressed or diminished but not cured; for intestinal worms; after concussion.
Water hemlock, cowbane.
Key Uses:
Origin : Found in swamps and wet places in Kashmir and the Arctic.
Background : The name “cowbane” derives from the fact that grazing on the plant can transmit a potentially fatal disease to cattle.
Preparation : The fresh root, gathered when the plant is in bloom, is chopped and macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Cicuta has an affinity with the nervous system and is used both for nervous temperamental conditions and for physical disorders of the nervous system. It is generally given to people who behave childishly and do absurd things. They may be wild, delirious, and overexcited, or exhibit great sensitivity to sad stories and to the happiness of other people. Alternatively, they may be distrustful, despise other people, and have an aversion to society. Their memories can go blank for long periods. Classic physical symptoms associated with Cicuta focus on spasmodic effects on the nervous system, ranging from stammering and hiccups to sudden, strong jerks and spasms. Petit mal fits with long absences may be treated with the remedy, as may epilepsy or violent convulsions accompanied by facial contortions and severe backward twisting and arching of the head and neck.
The remedy may also be used for some skin disorders, often involving pustules that leave yellowish scabs, such as eczema or impetigo. The head and face may be most affected, or the whole body may develop chronic eruptions that itch, burn, and crust. A craving for chalk may occur, as may an inability to distinguish what is edible.
Symptoms Better : For warmth; for arching the head, neck, and spine backward; for dwelling on pain; directly after eating.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for being touched or jarred; during sleep; for noise; if skin symptoms are suppressed or diminished but not cured; for intestinal worms; after concussion.
76. CIMEX
Acanthia lectularia syn. Cimex lectularius
Bed bug.
Key Uses:Anxiety, especially after a chill or drinking alcohol, and possibly followed by a fever Joint or muscle ache
Origin : Found in unsanitary environments in temperate regions.
Background : The ancient Greeks and Romans crushed bed bugs with salt and human milk to make an eye ointment. When powdered they were used for fevers and as a preventative remedy for plague.
Preparation : Live bed bugs are steeped in alcohol, diluted, and succussed.
Remedy Profile : Cimex is most appropriate for those who are prey to anxiety, especially after a chill or drinking alcohol. They may adopt a crouching position, desiring to creep into their own body because they are unable to curl themselves up sufficiently. A chilly stage may develop prior to fever, during which they may be violent, wanting to tear everything to pieces or clenching their hands in rage.
Cimex is typically prescribed for certain types of joint or muscle aches accompanied by a strong compulsion to stretch and, sometimes, chills and fever. Muscles and tendons such as hamstrings may feel too short for the limbs.
Symptoms Better : For sitting huddled up; for passing gas; for avoiding alcohol.
Symptoms Worse : For movement; for stretching.
Bed bug.
Key Uses:
Origin : Found in unsanitary environments in temperate regions.
Background : The ancient Greeks and Romans crushed bed bugs with salt and human milk to make an eye ointment. When powdered they were used for fevers and as a preventative remedy for plague.
Preparation : Live bed bugs are steeped in alcohol, diluted, and succussed.
Remedy Profile : Cimex is most appropriate for those who are prey to anxiety, especially after a chill or drinking alcohol. They may adopt a crouching position, desiring to creep into their own body because they are unable to curl themselves up sufficiently. A chilly stage may develop prior to fever, during which they may be violent, wanting to tear everything to pieces or clenching their hands in rage.
Cimex is typically prescribed for certain types of joint or muscle aches accompanied by a strong compulsion to stretch and, sometimes, chills and fever. Muscles and tendons such as hamstrings may feel too short for the limbs.
Symptoms Better : For sitting huddled up; for passing gas; for avoiding alcohol.
Symptoms Worse : For movement; for stretching.
77. CISTUS
Cistus canadensis
Frostweed, Canadian rock rose.
Key Uses:Allergic rhinitis Frequent colds Glandular swelling and hardening, especially in the neck Sinusitis, chronic or recurrent Tonsillitis Upper respiratory tract infections
Origin : Found in North America.
Background : Frostweed’s name derives from its love of frost on its roots in early winter. It has been used herbally for ulcers.
Preparation : The whole, fresh plant and root are macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Cistus is most appropriate for those who are frightened and stressed. Mental stress often aggravates their physical symptoms. Extremely sensitive to cold air, they tend to feel cold sensations all over the body. Their illnesses are generally affected by the seasons, becoming worse in winter.
Cistus is used mainly for frequent colds, tonsillitis, upper respiratory tract infections, chronic or recurrent sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis. Typical symptoms include thick, yellowy catarrh, a runny nose, and violent sneezing. The throat is dry and feels sore if even small amounts of cold air are inhaled.
Another key symptom associated with Cistus is glandular swelling and hardening, particularly in the neck, and possibly with concurrent respiratory symptoms. It may be due to infection or even cancer.
Symptoms Better : For coughing up mucus; for swallowing; for eating.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for drafts; for touch; for winter.
Frostweed, Canadian rock rose.
Key Uses:
Origin : Found in North America.
Background : Frostweed’s name derives from its love of frost on its roots in early winter. It has been used herbally for ulcers.
Preparation : The whole, fresh plant and root are macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Cistus is most appropriate for those who are frightened and stressed. Mental stress often aggravates their physical symptoms. Extremely sensitive to cold air, they tend to feel cold sensations all over the body. Their illnesses are generally affected by the seasons, becoming worse in winter.
Cistus is used mainly for frequent colds, tonsillitis, upper respiratory tract infections, chronic or recurrent sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis. Typical symptoms include thick, yellowy catarrh, a runny nose, and violent sneezing. The throat is dry and feels sore if even small amounts of cold air are inhaled.
Another key symptom associated with Cistus is glandular swelling and hardening, particularly in the neck, and possibly with concurrent respiratory symptoms. It may be due to infection or even cancer.
Symptoms Better : For coughing up mucus; for swallowing; for eating.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for drafts; for touch; for winter.
78. CINNABARIS
Hydrargyrum sulphuratum rubrum syn. Cinnabar
Mercuric sulfide, sulfide of mercury, quicksilver.
Key Uses:Genital and rectal ulceration and warts Headaches, inflamed eyes, catarrh, and sore throat Painful menstruation, pregnancy, or labor Pimples, pustules, and skin eruptions
Origin : Found mainly in Spain, and also in Peru, Italy, and California.
Background : In traditional Chinese medicine this mineral is used to treat sore throats, mouth ulcers, and palpitations. Its bright- scarlet pigment is called vermilion.
Preparation : Mercuric sulfide is triturated with lactose sugar.
Remedy Profile : Cinnabaris is best suited to people who are nervous, uneasy, sad, weak, and weary. They do not want to use their brains, and may become forgetful, often feeling that their heads are “full” from mental use. At night a stream of constantly changing thoughts runs through their heads. They are usually sensitive to touch and to the slightest noise, preferring to be left alone. This remedy has a classic affinity with genital and rectal ulceration and warts, and its profile is similar to that of Merc. sol. (see page 85). Key symptoms include fiery red ulcers on the skin and the mucous membranes, warts that bleed easily, pimples, pustules, and red skin eruptions that tend to itch violently.
The head is a focus for other symptoms that may be helped by the remedy. These include headaches with congestion; red, inflamed eyes; catarrh in the nose and throat; and a dry, sore throat. Sleep patterns may be disrupted, with noticeable restlessness and sleeplessness, although there is often a marked lack of tiredness.
Cinnabaris may also be used to treat women who experience very painful menstruation and pregnancy, or great pains during labor.
Symptoms Better : For open air; for sunshine; after dinner.
Symptoms Worse : For damp; for touch; for evening; at night; for light; before menstruation.
Mercuric sulfide, sulfide of mercury, quicksilver.
Key Uses:
Origin : Found mainly in Spain, and also in Peru, Italy, and California.
Background : In traditional Chinese medicine this mineral is used to treat sore throats, mouth ulcers, and palpitations. Its bright- scarlet pigment is called vermilion.
Preparation : Mercuric sulfide is triturated with lactose sugar.
Remedy Profile : Cinnabaris is best suited to people who are nervous, uneasy, sad, weak, and weary. They do not want to use their brains, and may become forgetful, often feeling that their heads are “full” from mental use. At night a stream of constantly changing thoughts runs through their heads. They are usually sensitive to touch and to the slightest noise, preferring to be left alone. This remedy has a classic affinity with genital and rectal ulceration and warts, and its profile is similar to that of Merc. sol. (see page 85). Key symptoms include fiery red ulcers on the skin and the mucous membranes, warts that bleed easily, pimples, pustules, and red skin eruptions that tend to itch violently.
The head is a focus for other symptoms that may be helped by the remedy. These include headaches with congestion; red, inflamed eyes; catarrh in the nose and throat; and a dry, sore throat. Sleep patterns may be disrupted, with noticeable restlessness and sleeplessness, although there is often a marked lack of tiredness.
Cinnabaris may also be used to treat women who experience very painful menstruation and pregnancy, or great pains during labor.
Symptoms Better : For open air; for sunshine; after dinner.
Symptoms Worse : For damp; for touch; for evening; at night; for light; before menstruation.
79. COCCULUS
Anamirta cocculus syn. Cocculus indicus
Indian cockle.
Key Uses:Agitation Hypersensitivity to touch Muscle weakness, spasms in the legs, and gradual paralysis Sea- and travel-sickness, nausea, and vomiting Vertigo and dizziness
Origin : Found in India and southeast Asia.
Background : Fishermen in southern India use this plant as a poison to stun fish and catch them easily. It was once added to beer to make it more intoxicating.
Preparation : The powdered seeds are macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Cocculus is most effective for those whose concern for others makes them feel at the end of their tether. They may become severely exhausted, possibly leading to fainting, insomnia, and stupor. This state is common in those who have spent long periods of time nursing a sick relative.
This remedy has a strong affinity with central nervous system disorders, especially vertigo, dizziness, nausea, sea- and travel- sickness, vomiting, and hypersensitivity to touch. Nervous oversensitivity may lead initially to agitation and dizziness, and possibly develop into more serious conditions such as muscle weakness, spasms in the legs, and gradual paralysis.
Symptoms Better : For sitting in a warm room; for lying quietly.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for lack of sleep; for movement; for movement in vehicles; for anxiety; for emotional stress.
Indian cockle.
Key Uses:
Origin : Found in India and southeast Asia.
Background : Fishermen in southern India use this plant as a poison to stun fish and catch them easily. It was once added to beer to make it more intoxicating.
Preparation : The powdered seeds are macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Cocculus is most effective for those whose concern for others makes them feel at the end of their tether. They may become severely exhausted, possibly leading to fainting, insomnia, and stupor. This state is common in those who have spent long periods of time nursing a sick relative.
This remedy has a strong affinity with central nervous system disorders, especially vertigo, dizziness, nausea, sea- and travel- sickness, vomiting, and hypersensitivity to touch. Nervous oversensitivity may lead initially to agitation and dizziness, and possibly develop into more serious conditions such as muscle weakness, spasms in the legs, and gradual paralysis.
Symptoms Better : For sitting in a warm room; for lying quietly.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for lack of sleep; for movement; for movement in vehicles; for anxiety; for emotional stress.
80. COCA
Erythroxylum coca
Coca.
Key Uses:Altitude sickness Breathlessness or asthma
Origin : Native to Peru and Bolivia, but now also cultivated elsewhere in South America and in Asia, usually illegally.
Background : Early European travelers to the Andes noted that the indigenous Indians chewed coca leaves as a stimulant. Coca contains cocaine, a narcotic drug that has spawned a huge illegal industry.
Preparation : The leaves are dried, powdered, and macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Coca is most appropriate for people who alternate between complete exhaustion and great mental excitement. They may be timid and antisocial, and have a sense of impending death and auditory hallucinations, or they may be extremely talkative and experience blissful visions. Their brains may feel muddled, and they can lose their sense of right or wrong and neglect their appearance. It is often used for symptoms associated with altitude sickness. Athletes and elderly people with symptoms of breathlessness or asthma may also be treated with Coca, since the classic physical symptom picture includes breathlessness.
Symptoms Better : For rapid movement; for open air; after sunset; for wine.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for ascending to high altitudes; for physical and mental exertion.
Coca.
Key Uses:
Origin : Native to Peru and Bolivia, but now also cultivated elsewhere in South America and in Asia, usually illegally.
Background : Early European travelers to the Andes noted that the indigenous Indians chewed coca leaves as a stimulant. Coca contains cocaine, a narcotic drug that has spawned a huge illegal industry.
Preparation : The leaves are dried, powdered, and macerated in alcohol.
Remedy Profile : Coca is most appropriate for people who alternate between complete exhaustion and great mental excitement. They may be timid and antisocial, and have a sense of impending death and auditory hallucinations, or they may be extremely talkative and experience blissful visions. Their brains may feel muddled, and they can lose their sense of right or wrong and neglect their appearance. It is often used for symptoms associated with altitude sickness. Athletes and elderly people with symptoms of breathlessness or asthma may also be treated with Coca, since the classic physical symptom picture includes breathlessness.
Symptoms Better : For rapid movement; for open air; after sunset; for wine.
Symptoms Worse : For cold; for ascending to high altitudes; for physical and mental exertion.
