ASARUM

Homeopathy

ASARUM

Asarum europaeum
Hazelwort, European snakeroot, wild nard, public house plant.

Key Uses:

Alcoholism

Aversion to sexual intercourse

Digestive problems, possibly associated with anorexia

Nervous hypersensitivity and edgy, hysterical behavior

Severe insomnia

Origin : Native to woods and shady sites in northern and eastern Europe.

Background : Introduced medicinally by the ancient Greek physician Dioscorides, this plant was used chiefly as an emetic. Also a stimulant, it was once an ingredient of tobacconists’ “head-clearin’ snuff.”

Preparation : The fresh, finely chopped underground parts are steeped in alcohol.

Remedy Profile : People who respond best to Asarum are nervous, excitable, and oversensitive. They are usually weak, often feel chilly, and are unable to live robust, ordinary lives. Often they are overly ambitious and exhausted due to a stressful occupation. Asarum is also given to recovering alcoholics.
The classic symptom picture for this remedy is of nervous hypersensitivity and edgy, hysterical behavior; even the sound of scratching on cloth becomes unbearable. Other symptoms commonly include nervous exhaustion, restlessness, hand-wringing, severe insomnia, and a sensation of floating and dizziness. Noise may trigger pain in the ears and teeth.
Digestive problems with an aversion to eating, possibly associated with anorexia, may accompany this disturbed state. There is often alcoholism or a desire for alcohol, and an aversion to sexual intercourse.

Symptoms Better : For damp weather; for bathing in cold water.

Symptoms Worse : For cold, dry weather; for any noise or even the thought of noise; for penetrating sounds.