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Colocynthis vs Magnesia phosphorica
(Citrullus colocynthis · Magnesia phosphorica)
Both come up when cramping belly or nerve pains make someone bend double for relief.
In short
Colocynthis is a gripping, cutting cramp that follows anger and wants hard pressure; Magnesia phosphorica is a darting cramp soothed above all by warmth.
Side by side
(the classic distinctions homeopaths look for)
| Feature | Colocynthis |
Magnesia phosphorica |
|---|---|---|
| Type of pain | Cutting, gripping, as if clamped in a vise | Darting, shooting, comes and goes like lightning |
| Best relief | Hard pressure, pressing fists into the belly | Heat, such as a hot water bottle |
| Trigger | Anger, indignation or feeling insulted | Cold air, drafts or cold water |
| Mood | Irritable and offended, even at being questioned | Tired and languid; laments about the pain |
| Typical situation | Colic after a row or upset | Cramps in someone chilly and worn out |
Colocynthis
Better
Bending double, Hard pressure, Warmth, Lying with head bent forward
Worse
Anger and indignation, Eating or drinking, Gentle touch
Magnesia phosphorica
Better
Warmth and heat, Bending double, Pressure, Rubbing
Worse
Cold air, drafts and cold water, Touch, Night, Right side
From the classic texts
“Agonizing pain in abdomen, causing patient to bend double, is most characteristic. Sensations; cutting, twisting, grinding, contracting and bruised; as if clamped with iron bands.”
“The great anti-spasmodic remedy. Cramping of muscles with radiating pains. Neuralgic pains relieved by warmth. Especially suited to tired, languid, exhausted subjects.”
Read the full profiles
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Colocynthis
(Citrullus colocynthis · Bitter cucumber)
The remedy that doubles you over. In the materia medica, Colocynthis is associated with intense cramping and cutting pains, especially in the belly, that are eased by bending double and pressing hard, often after anger or indignation.
Read more -
Magnesia phosphorica
(Magnesia phosphorica · Magnesium phosphate)
The great cramp remedy. In the materia medica, Magnesia phosphorica is associated with cramping, shooting pains that ease with warmth, pressure and bending double, from menstrual cramps to colic and writer's cramp.
Read more
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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.