vs
Coccus cacti vs Drosera
(Coccus cacti · Drosera rotundifolia)
Both are compared for violent, tickling coughing fits that can end in gagging or retching.
In short
Coccus cacti is a morning cough bringing up long strings of clear mucus; Drosera is a deep, barking cough in rapid fits after midnight.
Side by side
(the classic distinctions homeopaths look for)
| Feature | Coccus cacti |
Drosera |
|---|---|---|
| Worst time | On first waking in the morning | After midnight, as the head hits the pillow |
| Mucus | Thick, ropy, clear or white strings | Little; the cough is deep and dry |
| Cough sound | Tickling, choking fits | Deep, barking, hoarse fits in quick succession |
| Better for | Cool air and cold drinks | Sitting up and holding the chest |
| Triggers | Brushing teeth, tight clothing | Lying down, talking, laughing |
Coccus cacti
Better
Walking, Cool air and cold drinks
Worse
After sleep, especially on first waking, Touch and tight clothing, Brushing teeth, Slight exertion
Drosera
Better
Sitting up, Pressure, such as holding the chest while coughing
Worse
After midnight, Lying down and warmth of bed, Talking, singing or laughing, Drinking
From the classic texts
“Sensation of a crumb behind larynx, must swallow continually; brushing teeth causes cough. Fauces very sensitive. Suffocative cough; worse, first waking, with tough, white mucus, which strangles.”
“Harassing and titillating cough in children-not at all through the day, but commences as soon as the head touches the pillow at night.”
Read the full profiles
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Coccus cacti
(Coccus cacti · Cochineal insect)
A remedy of tickling, choking coughs with ropy mucus. In the materia medica, Coccus cacti is associated with spasmodic morning coughs that bring up thick, stringy, clear mucus, sometimes ending in vomiting, and with urinary discomfort.
Read more -
Drosera
(Drosera rotundifolia · Sundew)
The remedy of the barking, spasmodic night cough. In the materia medica, Drosera is associated with deep, hoarse coughing fits that follow one another so fast the person can barely catch their breath, often with retching.
Read more
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12 remedies to keep at home
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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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.