MANDRAGORA

Homeopathy

MANDRAGORA

Mandragora officinarum
Common mandrake, devil’s apple.

Key Uses:

Abdominal pain

Congestive headaches

Limbs that feel heavy, bruised, or sore

Sciatica

Origin : Native to the Mediterranean region of Europe.

Background : Legend attributed magical aphrodisiac properties to the mandrake root. It is highly toxic and narcotic, and is no longer used herbally.

Preparation : The root is dried and macerated in alcohol.

Remedy Profile : People for whom Mandragora is best suited are prone to changeable moods, such as crying spells alternating with feelings of euphoria. They may be in a state of “aroused exhaustion,” simultaneously sleepy and hyperactive. They are hypersensitive, particularly to noise, but also to smell; symptoms are violent in nature.
The classic symptom profile associated with Mandragora focuses on abdominal pain that is worse on the upper right side and better for bending backward. The remedy may also help limbs that feel heavy, bruised, and sore, as if from muscular exertion, and may ease sciatica with burning pain that is worse on the right side. A further use is for congestive headaches that are better for cold air and cold compresses.

Symptoms Better : For urinating; for bending backward; for rest; for continuous movement; for warm compresses (except in the case of headaches).

Symptoms Worse : For damp and stormy weather; between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m.