PODOPHYLLUM

Homeopathy

PODOPHYLLUM

Podophyllum peltatum
May apple, American mandrake.

Key Uses:

Abdominal cramps

Diarrhea

Gastroenteritis

Liver problems

Ovarian pain

Origin : Native to northeastern North America.

Background : May apple was used by native Americans and 19th-century settlers from Europe as a purgative, but was later found to be highly toxic to cells. It is being researched for treating certain cancers.

Preparation : The fresh rhizome is dug up when the fruits are fully ripe, finely chopped, and macerated in alcohol.

Remedy Profile : Those who benefit most from Podophyllum tend to be forgetful, particularly of words, depressed, afraid that they may die, and unrefreshed by sleep, which is restless.
Digestive tract disorders such as gastroenteritis are typically treated with this remedy. Generally, the lower part of the digestive tract and the liver are most affected. The appetite often wanes, perhaps because everything suddenly tastes sour or putrid, or because the smell of food is loathsome. Sour belching, vomiting, or diarrhea, particularly after eating or drinking, are typical of this symptom picture. Podophyllum may ease abdominal cramps, or profuse, painless diarrhea, preceded by noisy gurgling. Diarrhea may be accompanied by a sinking feeling, as if the pelvic contents are going to prolapse.

Symptoms Better : For warmth; in the evening; for rubbing or stroking the liver area; for bending forward; for lying on the abdomen; for yawning and stretching.

Symptoms Worse : For early morning; in hot weather; for any movement; while being bathed or washed; for eating.