What is Colocynth?

Colocynth contains a substance called colocynthin, a poison that strongly irritates the digestive system, leading to violent cramping pains, bleeding and inflammation.

Other names : Bitter cucumber, bitter apple.

Description and places it grows in :

Yellow flowers and yellowy-orange smooth fruits, similar in size to a large apple and containing a whitish pulp and many seeds; found in many parts of Asia and Africa but native to Turkey.

Parts used : Dried fruits, once the seeds have been removed.

Homeopaths may prescribe this remedy for :

• Colic (severe abdominal pains), including colic in young babies. Displaying the following symptoms: Sickness, diarrhoea..

• Neuralgia (especially of the face) Displaying the following symptoms: Sciatica, ovarian or kidney pain due to nerves; rheumatism; headache.

People requiring this remedy will feel worse :

When angry or irritated, in cold, damp weather; eating and drinking.

People requiring this remedy will feel better :

When warm, with pressure applied on the painful area, drinking coffee, when burping.

People suitable for this remedy :

Are usually quiet, non-confrontational characters, who nevertheless have strong opinions about what is right and wrong and can become quite agitated if these are rebuked.