Alstonia scholaris is a homeopathic remedy primarily indicated for malarial diseases accompanied by symptoms such as diarrhea, dysentery, anemia, and feeble digestion.
The remedy is characterized by a distinctive sensation of emptiness in the stomach and a sinking feeling in the abdomen, accompanied by a general sense of debility.
It is often recommended as a tonic following exhausting fevers.

SOURCE INFORMATION
Common Name: The tree is commonly known as Dita Bark, Indian Devil Tree, or Saptaparni.
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Division (Phylum): Angiosperms
- Class: Eudicots
- Order: Gentianales
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Genus: Alstonia
- Species: Alstonia scholaris
Active Principle: The active principle in Alstonia scholaris is ditain.
Ditain exhibits anti-periodic properties similar to quinine, making Alstonia scholaris a valuable remedy in the homeopathic treatment of malarial diseases.
Habitat: Alstonia scholaris is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, thriving in a variety of soil types. It has a long history of traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine.
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KEY CHARACTERISTICS
- Abdominal Symptoms
- Violent Purging and Cramping: Alstonia scholaris is known for its effectiveness in addressing conditions with violent purging and cramping in the bowels.
- Camp Diarrhea: It is a valuable remedy for diarrhea, especially in cases related to camping or exposure to bad water.
- Bloody Stools and Dysentery: The remedy is indicated for dysentery with bloody stools.
- Diarrhea after Eating: Stools may occur immediately after eating.
- Sensation of Emptiness
- Gone Sensation in Stomach: There is a characteristic sensation of emptiness in the stomach.
- Sinking in Abdomen: A sinking feeling in the abdomen is a notable symptom.
- Constitutional Symptoms
- Debility: Alstonia scholaris is often recommended when there is a general state of debility, especially after prolonged or exhausting fevers.
- Anemia: The remedy may be beneficial in cases where anemia is present.
RELATIONSHIPS
- Alstonia Constricta: Similar in action to Alstonia scholaris, serving as the bitter bark or native quinine of Australia.
- Ditain: The active principle in Alstonia scholaris, exhibiting anti-periodic properties similar to quinine but without the unpleasant effects.
- Cinchona: Shares similarities in addressing diarrhea, chronic dyspepsia, and debility.
- Hydrastis; Ferrum Citricum et Chin: Comparable remedies in certain aspects.
DOSAGE
- Alstonia scholaris is typically prepared in tincture form, and homeopathic practitioners may prescribe it in various potencies, up to the third potency.
- The remedy may also be used locally for conditions such as ulcers and rheumatic pains.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Alstonia scholaris used for in homeopathy?
- Alstonia scholaris is primarily indicated for malarial diseases accompanied by symptoms such as diarrhea, dysentery, anemia, and feeble digestion.
- It is also recommended as a tonic after exhausting fevers.
What are the key characteristics of Alstonia scholaris?
- The remedy is characterized by a distinctive sensation of emptiness in the stomach and a sinking feeling in the abdomen.
- It is known for its efficacy in addressing violent purging and cramping in the bowels, camp diarrhea, and dysentery with bloody stools.
What is the active principle in Alstonia scholaris?
- The active principle is ditain, which exhibits anti-periodic properties similar to quinine. This makes Alstonia scholaris valuable in the homeopathic treatment of malarial diseases.
Where is Alstonia scholaris commonly found?
- Alstonia scholaris, also known as Dita Bark, Indian Devil Tree, or Saptaparni, is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions.
- It thrives in various soil types.
How is Alstonia scholaris prepared in homeopathy, and what potencies are used?
- It is typically prepared in tincture form, and practitioners may prescribe it in various potencies, up to the third potency.
- Individualized prescribing based on the patient’s symptoms is crucial.
Are there any related remedies or substances?
- Alstonia constricta, the bitter bark of Australia, is similar in action. Ditain, the active principle, is comparable to quinine without unpleasant effects.
- Cinchona, Hydrastis, and Ferrum Citricum et Chin share some similarities.
How can Alstonia scholaris be used locally?
- Locally, it may be used for conditions such as ulcers and rheumatic pains.
- However, specific applications should be guided by a qualified homeopathic practitioner.
Is Alstonia scholaris suitable for anemic patients?
- Yes, Alstonia scholaris may be beneficial in cases where anemia is present, especially when associated with malarial diseases and debility.
Can Alstonia scholaris be used for diarrhea after eating?
- Yes, it is indicated for cases where diarrhea occurs immediately after eating.
Is consultation with a homeopathic practitioner necessary for using Alstonia scholaris?
- Yes, it is highly recommended to consult with a qualified homeopathic practitioner for accurate diagnosis, individualized treatment, and appropriate dosage of Alstonia scholaris.
As with any homeopathic remedy, individualized prescribing based on a thorough understanding of the patient’s symptoms and constitution is essential. Consultation with a qualified homeopathic practitioner is recommended for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.