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.
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.
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