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Clerodendron infortunatum, commonly known as “Bhat” or by various other names such as Bhanta, Ghantakarna, Bhandira, and Kari, is a medicinal plant belonging to the Leguminosae family.

It has a long history of traditional use in the treatment of gastric troubles and other gastrointestinal disorders.

CLERODENDRON INFORTUNATUM

SOURCE INFORMATION

Scientific Classification
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Clade: Angiosperms
  • Clade: Eudicots
  • Order: Fabales
  • Family: Fabaceae
  • Genus: Clerodendron
  • Species: Clerodendron infortunatum
Origin and Distribution
  • Clerodendron infortunatum is native to various regions where it grows abundantly, including parts of Asia.
  • It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is commonly found in countries such as India, where it has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
Historical Facts
  • This plant has been an integral part of traditional medicine systems for centuries.
  • Indigenous communities in Asia, particularly in regions where it is endemic, have utilized different parts of the plant to address gastrointestinal issues and other health concerns.
  • Its historical use underscores its significance in traditional healing practices.
Homoeopathic Preparation
  • In homeopathy, Clerodendron infortunatum is prepared as a mother tincture or in potentized forms for therapeutic use.
  • The plant’s parts are collected and processed to extract its medicinal properties using maceration and percolation techniques.
  • The resulting liquid extract undergoes serial dilution and succussion to prepare different potencies of the remedy.

DRUG PATHOGENESIS

  • Clerodendron infortunatum primarily affects the gastrointestinal system, producing symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, colic due to worm affections, and frothy, deep yellow stools.
  • It is also associated with fever, particularly in the afternoon, accompanied by enlargement of the liver and spleen, and burning sensation in the eyes and face.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

  • Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Diarrhea with nausea, colic due to worm affections, liquid and frothy stools, prominent nausea with watering in the mouth (ptyalism).
  • Fever: Fever occurring in the afternoon, with associated enlargement of the liver and spleen, and burning sensation in the eyes and face.

DETAILED ORGAN SYMPTOMS

GASTROINTESTINAL SYMPTOMS

  • Diarrhea associated with nausea: Individuals experience diarrhea along with a feeling of nausea, indicating an upset stomach.
  • Colic due to worm affections: Colic, or severe abdominal pain, may be caused by the presence of intestinal worms.
  • Stools are liquid, deep yellow, frothy: The stools are watery, of a deep yellow colour, and frothy in appearance, suggesting a disturbance in the digestive tract.
  • Nausea with watering in mouth (ptyalism): Nausea is a prominent symptom accompanied by excessive salivation or watering in the mouth, known as ptyalism.

FEVER

  • Fever with enlargement of liver and spleen: Fever is accompanied by the enlargement of the liver and spleen, indicating potential infection or inflammation in these organs.
  • Fever comes in the afternoon: The fever tends to occur specifically in the afternoon, suggesting a cyclical pattern.
  • Burning sensation in the eyes and face: Individuals experience a burning sensation in the eyes and face, which may be associated with the fever or underlying condition.

MODALITIES

  • Symptoms may worsen in the afternoon.
  • Burning sensation in the eyes and face may be aggravated by fever.

DOSE

  • Potency of choice: Mother tincture, 3x, 6, 30.
  • The appropriate dosage and frequency should be determined by a qualified homeopathic practitioner based on individual symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the clinical uses of Clerodendron infortunatum?

  • It is primarily used for gastric troubles, particularly diarrhea and nausea.

Can Clerodendron infortunatum be used for fever?

  • Yes, it is indicated for fever, especially if associated with enlargement of the liver and spleen.

What is the meaning of “ptyalism”?

  • Ptyalism refers to excessive salivation or watering in the mouth.

Is Clerodendron infortunatum safe for self-medication?

  • It is recommended to consult a qualified homeopathic practitioner for proper diagnosis and treatment to ensure safe and effective use of Clerodendron infortunatum.

Meaning of Difficult Words

  • Colic: Severe, often fluctuating pain in the abdomen caused by intestinal or gynaecological disorders.
  • Enlargement: The action or state of becoming larger or more extensive.
  • Frothy: Covered with or containing a mass of small bubbles.
  • Salivation: The production of saliva, typically in excess.