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Remedy reference

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.

Coughs & breathing | Urinary

Source

The dried cochineal insect, which lives on prickly-pear cactus

Kingdom

Animal

Abbreviation

Coc-c.

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)

Tickling in the throat, as of a crumb, with a constant need to swallow

Coughing fits worst on first waking, bringing up thick, ropy white mucus

Fits that may end in vomiting the mucus; even brushing the teeth can set off coughing

Urging to urinate, with dark, thick urine and a reddish sediment

Tends to feel better

Walking

Cool air and cold drinks

Tends to feel worse

After sleep, especially on first waking

Touch and tight clothing

Brushing teeth

Slight exertion

How it compares

(remedies that are often confused with Coccus cacti)

  • Drosera

    (Drosera rotundifolia)

    Also violent coughing fits, but Drosera's come after midnight, with less ropy mucus.

    Read moreCompare side by side

  • Kali bichromicum

    (Kalium bichromicum)

    Also stringy mucus, but yellow and tough in the sinuses and throat rather than clear and ropy.

    Read more

  • Cantharis

    (Cantharis vesicatoria)

    For intense burning and urging to urinate; Coccus cacti's urinary picture is milder, with reddish sediment.

    Read more

Side-by-side comparisons

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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.”

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

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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.