vs
Rhus toxicodendron vs Ruta graveolens
(Rhus toxicodendron · Ruta graveolens)
Both come up for strains and sprains with restless, aching stiffness.
In short
Rhus toxicodendron is muscular stiffness that limbers up with motion; Ruta graveolens is a deep, bruised lameness of tendons and bone coverings.
Side by side
(the classic distinctions homeopaths look for)
| Feature | Rhus toxicodendron |
Ruta graveolens |
|---|---|---|
| Tissues | Muscles and ligaments | Tendons, wrists, ankles, bone coverings |
| Type of pain | Stiff and sore, like a rusty gate | Bruised, lame and weak |
| Movement | Worst on first moving, eases as you go | Restless, but lameness lingers; legs weak on rising |
| Better for | Warmth, hot bathing, rubbing | Pressure; lying on the back for backache |
| Typical situation | Overlifting, or chilled after getting wet | A lingering sprain, or eyes tired from close work |
Rhus toxicodendron
Better
Continued motion, Warmth and hot bathing, Warm, dry weather, Rubbing and stretching
Worse
First motion after rest, Cold, wet, rainy weather, Night, Getting wet while sweaty
Ruta graveolens
Better
Lying on the back, for backache, Pressure
Worse
Lying down, Cold, wet weather, Overuse and straining
From the classic texts
“Motion always "limbers up" the Rhus patient, and hence he feels better for a time from a change of position. Ailments from strains, overlifting, getting wet while perspiring.”
“All parts of the body are painful, as if bruised. Sprains (after Arnica). Lameness after sprains.”
Read the full profiles
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Rhus toxicodendron
(Rhus toxicodendron · Poison ivy)
The remedy of rusty-gate stiffness. In the materia medica, Rhus toxicodendron is associated with stiffness and aching that are worst on first moving and ease as you keep going, along with restlessness and intensely itchy, blistering skin.
Read more -
Ruta graveolens
(Ruta graveolens · Rue)
The remedy of strained tendons and tired eyes. In the materia medica, Ruta graveolens is associated with bruised, lame aching in tendons, wrists and ankles after strains, and with eyes that ache and burn after close work.
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.