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Remedy reference

Cimicifuga

(Cimicifuga racemosa · Black cohosh)

A remedy of a dark cloud and aching muscles. In the materia medica, Cimicifuga is associated with heavy gloom, talkative agitation and stiff, achy muscles, often tied to the menstrual cycle and hormonal change.

Hormones | Joints & pain | Grief & emotions

Source

The root of black cohosh (black snakeroot), a North American woodland plant

Kingdom

Plant

Abbreviation

Cimic.

Home acute kit

Usually prescribed by a homeopath

The classic picture

(a remedy is chosen when the whole picture fits the person, not from a single symptom)

Feels as if a heavy black cloud has settled over her

Agitated, restless and talkative, with a sense of something bad about to happen

Stiff, aching muscles of the neck and back; soreness in the belly of large muscles

Pains like electric shocks; the heavier the period, the worse she feels

Tends to feel better

Warmth

Eating

Tends to feel worse

Morning

Cold (except headache)

During periods, more so the heavier the flow

How it compares

(remedies that are often confused with Cimicifuga)

  • Pulsatilla

    (Pulsatilla pratensis)

    Both shift with the cycle; Pulsatilla is weepy and seeks comfort, Cimicifuga gloomy and agitated.

    Read more

  • Caulophyllum

    (Caulophyllum thalictroides)

    A close relative for uterine cramps; Caulophyllum centers on small-joint pains and weakness.

    Read moreCompare side by side

  • Lilium tigrinum

    (Lilium tigrinum)

    Also hurried and hormonal, but with a bearing-down feeling and a busy, conflicted temperament.

    Read more

Side-by-side comparisons

Free printable guide

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When to think of each one, how to tell them apart, when to call a doctor instead and a printable home remedy guide.

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From the classic texts

“Sensation of a cloud enveloping her. Great depression, with dream of impending evil. Fears riding in a closed carriage, of being obliged to jump out.”

William Boericke, Pocket Manual of Homoeopathic Materia Medica (1901)

“Sensation as if a heavy, black cloud had settled all over her and enveloped her head so that all is darkness and confusion.”

Henry C. Allen, Keynotes and Characteristics (1898)

Articles that mention Cimicifuga

Homeopathic Support During Pregnancy: What’s Safe and When

Looking for more than a quick remedy?

Acute remedies can be a starting point for short-term complaints. Ongoing or recurring issues call for a full case: a detailed conversation about your physical, mental and emotional symptoms, so the remedy fits you as a whole person.

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This page is for education only and is not medical advice. Homeopathy is complementary care, not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a licensed medical provider. Seek medical care for severe, worsening or emergency symptoms. Please view our Disclaimer.