Kreosotum
(Kreosotum · Beechwood creosote)
The remedy of acrid, burning discharges. In the materia medica, Kreosotum is associated with painful teething with fast-decaying teeth, burning, offensive discharges, intense itching, and a sudden urgent need to urinate.
Source
Creosote distilled from beechwood tar, a mixture of phenols
Kingdom
Mineral
Abbreviation
Kreos.
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)
Very painful teething; teeth decay quickly, with soft, spongy, bleeding gums
Discharges that burn, smell offensive and leave the skin raw
Violent itching, worse toward evening
Urgent need to urinate; children may wet the bed in the first deep sleep
Irritable child who asks for things, then throws them away
Tends to feel better
Warmth
Motion
Warm food
Tends to feel worse
Open air and cold weather
Rest, especially lying down
After periods
How it compares
(remedies that are often confused with Kreosotum)
-
Chamomilla
(Matricaria chamomilla)
Chamomilla's teething child is furious and wants carrying; Kreosotum's teeth decay fast, with spongy gums and offensive discharges.
Read more -
Staphysagria
(Delphinium staphisagria)
Staphysagria also has teeth that darken and crumble, but with a picture of held-in indignation.
Read more
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.
Get the free guide
From the classic texts
“Very painful dentition; child will not sleep. Very rapid decay of teeth, with spongy, bleeding gums; teeth dark and crumbly (Staph; Ant c).”
“Itching, so violent toward evening as to drive one almost wild (itching, without eruption, Dolichos).”
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.
Book free intro callThis 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.