Hydrastis

Remedy profile

People who benefit from Hydrastis tend to be weary, exhausted, thin, and elderly, often with degenerative conditions. The classic symptom picture for this remedy is of problems of the mucous membranes. It is associated with catarrh, sinusitis, a sore throat, and an abnormal taste in the mouth. There may be copious, thick, yellowish, stringy mucus affecting the mucous membranes of the respiratory system. The remedy is also used for stomach problems, possibly occurring in conjunction with the classic problems of the mucous membranes.

Characteristic symptoms include poor digestion, a sensation of emptiness in the stomach that remains even after eating, and constipation with no urge to pass stools. The remedy is often used for people susceptible to cancerous and precancerous states, notably those affecting the liver, colon, or breast. Hydrastis has an especially strong affinity with liver cancer, and may be taken to reduce the need for narcotics and analgesics.

Symptoms better: For warmth; for covering up warmly; for dry weather; for rest; for pressure on the affected area.

Symptoms worse: At night; for open air; for bathing; during pregnancy; for the touch of clothing; for alcohol and drug abuse.