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.
Source
The fresh leaves of the poison ivy plant
Kingdom
Plant
Abbreviation
Rhus-t.
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)
Stiff and sore on first moving after rest or on getting up, limbering up with continued motion
Restless; cannot stay in one position and keeps shifting to find relief
Strains from overlifting or overexertion, or aches after getting wet or chilled
Red, swollen, intensely itchy blistering skin
Tends to feel better
Continued motion
Warmth and hot bathing
Warm, dry weather
Rubbing and stretching
Tends to feel worse
First motion after rest
Cold, wet, rainy weather
Night
Getting wet while sweaty
How it compares
(remedies that are often confused with Rhus toxicodendron)
-
Bryonia
(Bryonia alba)
The classic opposite: Bryonia is worse for any motion and wants to lie still; Rhus is better for keeping moving.
Read moreCompare side by side -
Arnica
(Arnica montana)
Arnica for the bruised feeling right after an injury; Rhus for strained muscles and tendons that loosen with motion.
Read more -
Ruta graveolens
(Ruta graveolens)
Ruta centers more on tendons and the coverings of bones, with a deep, bruised lameness.
Read moreCompare side by side
Side-by-side comparisons
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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.”
“Lameness, stiffness and pain on first moving after rest, or on getting up in the morning, > by walking or continued motion.”
Articles that mention Rhus toxicodendron
Beating Winter Sluggishness: Homeopathy for Joint Stiffness, Eczema and Exhaustion
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.
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