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Gelsemium vs Bryonia
(Gelsemium sempervirens · Bryonia alba)
Both are classic flu remedies, and people often can't tell which picture fits.
In short
Gelsemium is heavy, drowsy and thirstless; Bryonia is dry, irritable and very thirsty.
Side by side
(the classic distinctions homeopaths look for)
| Feature | Gelsemium |
Bryonia |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Creeps in slowly | Develops steadily, often after a few days |
| Energy | Heavy, droopy, too weak to move | Can move but won't, because it hurts |
| Thirst | Little or none | Large drinks at long intervals |
| Mood | Dull, apathetic, wants to be left alone | Irritable, may worry about work or money |
| Better for | Passing urine, bending forward | Complete rest, pressure, cool things |
Gelsemium
Better
Passing a lot of urine, Bending forward, Open air
Worse
Damp weather, Anticipation and bad news, Heat of the sun
Bryonia
Better
Complete rest, Firm pressure, Lying on the painful side, Cool things
Worse
Any motion, Warmth, Morning, Exertion
From the classic texts
“Centers its action upon the nervous system, causing various degrees of motor paralysis. General prostration. Dizziness, drowsiness, dullness, and trembling.”
“The general character of the pain here produced is a stitching, tearing; worse by motion, better rest.”
Read the full profiles
-
Gelsemium
(Gelsemium sempervirens · Yellow jasmine)
Heavy, droopy and trembling. Gelsemium is associated with a slow-onset, flu-like state of weakness and drowsiness, and with stage fright that leaves a person frozen.
Read more -
Bryonia
(Bryonia alba · White bryony)
Keep still and leave me alone. Bryonia is associated with complaints that are much worse for the slightest movement, along with dryness, thirst and irritability.
Read more
Articles that discuss both
Conquering the Winter Flu: Distinguishing Gelsemium from Bryonia
Free printable guide
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.