Homoeopathic Remedies in Common Use R

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Rhus toxicodendron

Rhus tox.; Rhus radicaris, American poison ivy, poison oak, poison vine. This large bush or small tree is a native species of the United States and Canada. Its leaves are extremely irritant to the touch, causing an inflamed and painful rash, swelling and ulceration. Often the person experiences malaise, swollen glands, headache, feverishness and a lack of appetite.

The plant produces white flowers with a green or yellow tinge in June, followed later by clusters of berries. The fresh leaves are gathered and pulped to make the remedy used in homoeopathy. It is used especially as a treatment for skin rashes and lesions with hot, burning sensations and also for inflammation of muscles and joints. Hence it is used to treat eczema, chilblains, cold sores, shingles, nappy rash and other conditions in which there is a dry, scaling or blistered skin. Also, for rheumatism, sciatica, lumbago, gout, synovitis (inflammation of the synovial membranes surrounding joints), osteoarthritis, ligament and tendon strains.

Feverish symptoms caused by viral infections, such as high temperature, chills and shivering, swollen, watering eyes, aching joints, nausea and vomiting, may be helped by Rhus tox. Some menstrual problems, including heavy bleeding and abdominal pains that are relieved by lying down, benefit from this remedy. People who are helped by Rhus tox tend to be depressed and miserable when ill, with a tendency to burst into tears, and are highly susceptible to cold, damp weather. Usually they have a dry, irritating cough and thirst and are irritable, anxious and restless.

The symptoms are made worse in stormy, wet, windy weather and at night, and when the person moves after a period of rest. Also, for becoming chilled when undressing. Warm, dry conditions and gentle exercise im-prove and lessen the symptoms. Rhus tox people may be initially shy in company, but when they lose this are charming, entertaining and lively and make friends easily.

They are usually conscientious and highly motivated and serious about their work to the extent of being somewhat workaholic. Rhus tox people often have an inner restlessness and become depressed and moody when affected by illness. They may be prone to carry out small compulsive rituals in order to function.

Ruta graveolens

Ruta grav.; rue, garden rue, herbygrass, ave-grace, herb-of-grace, bitter herb This hardy, evergreen plant is a native of southern Europe but has been cultivated in Britain for centuries, having been first brought here by the Romans. It thrives in poor soil in a dry and partially shaded situation, producing yellow-green flowers. The whole plant has a distinctive, pungent, unpleasant smell and was once used to repel insects, pestilence and infections.

It has been used medicinally throughout history to treat ailments in both animals and people, and was used to guard against the plague. It was believed to be effective in guarding against witchcraft, and Hippocrates recommended it as an antidote to poisoning. Rue was believed to have beneficial effects on sight and was used by the great artists, such as Michelangelo, to keep vision sharp. In the Catholic High Mass, brushes made from rue were once used to sprinkle the holy water, hence the name herb-of-grace.

Taken internally in large doses, rue has toxic effects causing vomiting, a swollen tongue, fits and delirium. The homoeopathic remedy is prepared from the sap of the green parts of the plant before the flowers open. It is indicated especially for bone and joint injuries and disorders, and those affecting tendons, ligaments and muscles where there is severe, deep, tearing pain. Hence it is used for synovitis (inflammation of the synovial membranes lining joints), rheumatism, sprains, strains, bruising, fractures and dislocations and also sciatica. Also, it is a useful remedy for eyestrain with tired, aching eyes, redness and inflammation and headache.

Chest problems may be relieved by Ruta grav., particularly painful deep coughs, and some problems affecting the rectum, such as prolapse. Pain and infection in the socket of a tooth after dental extraction may be helped by this remedy. A person who is ill and who benefits from Ruta grav. tends to feel low, anxious, depressed and dissatisfied both with himself (or herself) and others. The symptoms are usually worse in cold, damp weather, for resting and lying down and for exercise out of doors. They improve with heat and gentle movement indoors.