GYMNOCLADUS CANADENSIS

SOURCE INFORMATION

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Clade: Angiosperms
• Clade: Eudicots
• Clade: Rosids
• Order: Fabales
• Family: Fabaceae
• Genus: Gymnocladus
• Species: G. dioicus (formerly G. canadensis)

Origin

Gymnocladus canadensis is a deciduous tree native to the central regions of the United States, particularly found in the Mississippi River valley.

The tree can reach heights of 60-80 feet and is known for its broad, bipinnately compound leaves and thick, dark brown seed pods.

Historical Facts

The seeds of the American Coffee-tree were historically used by Native Americans and early European settlers as a coffee substitute, hence the common name.

Although the seeds are toxic if not properly prepared, they were roasted to remove toxicity and used as a coffee-like beverage.

The tree’s bark and seeds have also been used in traditional medicine for various ailments.

DRUG PATHOGENESIS

• Gymnocladus canadensis has a significant action on the mucous membranes, particularly affecting the throat and face.
• It is known for its erysipelatous inflammation (superficial infection of the skin), severe sore throat, and peculiar sensations on the face.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

• Sore throat: Dark livid redness of fauces and tonsils.
• Face: Erysipelatous swelling, sensation as of flies crawling over the face.
• Headache: Throbbing pain in the forehead and temples, often accompanied by a bluish-white coating on the tongue.
• Eyes: Burning sensation.
• Teeth: Great sensitivity.
• Desire for heat and quiet.

DETAILED ORGAN SYMPTOMS

HEAD

Headache

• Throbbing in the Forehead and Temples: The headache presents with a pulsating or pounding pain, particularly centered in the forehead and temples.
• This kind of headache can be intense and persistent, causing significant discomfort.
• Pain Extending Over the Eyes: The pain often radiates from the forehead and temples to the areas above the eyes, further intensifying the discomfort and sometimes affecting vision or causing a sensation of heaviness in the eyelids.
• Bluish-White Coating on the Tongue: This symptom is often associated with digestive disturbances or infections.
• The tongue may appear discolored, with a pale, bluish-white coating that can indicate poor health or systemic toxicity.

EYES

Burning Sensation

• The eyes may feel as though they are burning or stinging, which is often uncomfortable and can be associated with headaches.
• This burning sensation can be exacerbated by exposure to light or when straining the eyes, such as during reading or screen use.

FACE

Sensation as of Flies Crawling Over the Face

• This peculiar sensation, known as formication, feels like insects are crawling on or under the skin.
• It can be irritating and distressing, causing the person to frequently touch or rub their face to try to alleviate the feeling.

Erysipelatous Swelling

• Red, Inflamed Skin: The affected area of the face becomes red and swollen, indicating a severe inflammatory response.
• This erysipelatous swelling can be due to bacterial infection and is often accompanied by fever and a general feeling of malaise.
• Hot and Painful: The inflamed skin feels hot to the touch and is usually very tender and painful.
• This can lead to significant discomfort and might require medical attention to manage the infection and inflammation.

THROAT

Sore Throat

• Dark, Livid Redness of the Fauces and Tonsils: The throat, particularly the back part known as the fauces and the tonsils, appears dark red and congested.
• This discoloration is a sign of severe inflammation and possibly infection.
• Sticking Pain: A sharp, pricking pain that worsens with swallowing.
• This can make eating and drinking very uncomfortable, and even speaking may exacerbate the pain.
• Mucus Leading to Frequent Hawking: There is an excessive production of mucus in the throat, causing the person to frequently clear their throat or “hawk” to try to remove the mucus buildup.
• Tickling Sensation Causing a Dry Cough: Persistent tickling or irritation in the throat leads to a dry, unproductive cough.
• This cough does not bring up mucus but can be frequent and bothersome, particularly at night or when lying down.