Lilium

Lilium lancifolium syn. L. tigrinum

Key Symptoms

hurry and impatience; intense sexual urges; preference for cool, fresh air; sensation as though the heart is being gripped

The Lilium genus comprises around 100 species of bulbous plant, including the tiger lily. This was introduced to the West from China, Korea, and Japan, where it was cultivated as a food plant for centuries. The tiger lily has not generally been adopted into the Western herbal repertory, but forms the basis of an important homeopathic remedy for uterine pain and emotional problems. Lilium was proved in 1867 by Dr. E. W. Payne of Maine.

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Remedy Profile

Lilium is traditionally linked with people who are hurried and impatient, and generally trying to do too many things at once. They often feel wild and out of control, and may even fear that they are going insane. They like to be the center of attention and can be quick to anger if they are not. Alternatively, they may be filled with feelings of remorse, especially of a religious nature, and torment themselves endlessly about their behavior.

A conflict between very high moral standards and intense sexual urges is characteristic in these people. The suppression of their sexual desire generally aggravates frustration and anger. They are often sensitive to criticism, easily offended, irritated, even by kindness, and hurried beyond reason. People who respond well to this remedy typically have a burning sensation in their hands, and prefer cool weather.

Lilium is prescribed chiefly for female reproductive-system disorders. It is also given for states of despair and depression, and for urinary complaints, angina, and poor circulation.

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Women's health

Symptoms: Disorders of the female reproductive organs, such as uterine prolapse, vulval itching, and a bearing-down pain in the pelvis. In addition, the ovaries may be swollen and menstruation is often painful. Fibroids may also be treated with the remedy.

Symptoms better: For cool, fresh air; for lying on the left side.

Symptoms worse: For warmth; at night; for jarring; after a miscarriage.

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Depression

Symptoms: A sense of despair and need for religious salvation is characteristic in people who need Lilium. They are easily offended and feel that people are deliberately annoying them. They may have a fear of developing an incurable disease and look for a reason to grieve.

Symptoms better: For being occupied; for company.

Symptoms worse: For sympathy; after a miscarriage or menstruation.

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Urinary disorders

Symptoms: Cystitis with burning, stinging pain during and after urination. There is often a constant urge to pass urine, although only a small amount is passed at a time. Irritation in the genital area is experienced during both day and night. The symptoms usually affect women.

Symptoms better: For cool, fresh air; for lying on the left side.

Symptoms worse: For warmth; at night; for jarring; after a miscarriage.

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Heart disorders

Symptoms: Angina with numbness in the right arm and pain in the heart, as if it is being gripped. The heart may feel as if it is going to burst, as though it is hanging by a thread, or as though it is being alternately grasped and released. A rapid or irregular pulse is common. Palpitations may occur, especially during pregnancy.

Symptoms better: For cool, fresh air; for lying on the left side; for rubbing or pressing the area around the heart.

Symptoms worse: For lying down at night.

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