TANNICUM ACIDUM

SOURCE INFORMATION

Scientific Classification

• Family: Fagaceae
• Class: Polyphenolic compounds
• Common Name: Tannic Acid, Digallic Acid

Origin and Historical Facts

• Tannic acid is found in various plant sources such as oak, sumac, and chestnut trees.
• Historically, it was widely used in medicine for its astringent properties, especially to stop bleeding and control mucous membrane secretions.
• It was also employed in leather tanning processes, hence the name “tannic.”
• In the 19th century, it was recognized for its ability to contract tissues and arrest hemorrhages.

DRUG PATHOGENESIS

• Tannicum Acidum acts by contracting tissues and reducing secretions from mucous membranes.
• It primarily targets the digestive system and respiratory tract, addressing conditions involving excessive secretions, bleeding, and stubborn abdominal discomfort.
• The remedy also aids in controlling nervous coughs and correcting body odors due to excessive sweating.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

• Astringent action: Contracts tissues, reducing excessive secretions and bleeding.
• Respiratory relief: Helps in cases of nervous and persistent coughs.
• Digestive aid: Relieves abdominal pain and obstinate constipation by reducing intestinal inflammation.
• Fetor control: Corrects the foul odour of sweat, particularly in cases of osmidrosis.

DETAILED ORGAN SYMPTOMS

• Respiratory System: Known for its effectiveness in treating persistent, nervous coughs. It acts by calming the irritated mucous membranes, helping to suppress excessive coughing.
• Digestive System: Helps with obstinate constipation and abdominal pain. Patients may feel their intestines as if they are swollen or enlarged, and the abdomen becomes sensitive to pressure.
• Urinary System: Used in cases of hematuria (blood in urine), as its astringent properties can help manage bleeding.
• Skin and Sweat Glands: Used to treat osmidrosis, a condition involving excessive and foul-smelling perspiration. Tannic acid corrects the odor by reducing sweat gland activity.

MODALITIES

• Worse: With pressure on the abdomen, excessive physical activity, or heavy coughing.
• Better: Rest, reducing physical activity, and treatment of local areas with astringent solutions.

RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER DRUGS

• Compare: Gallic acid (for its similar astringent properties and its role in treating hemorrhage).

DOSE

• Typically used in homeopathic solutions as a one-half percent solution. The precise dosage and potency vary according to individual cases and should be determined by a professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tannicum Acidum used for?

• It is primarily used for its astringent properties to treat excessive mucous membrane secretions, stop bleeding, manage abdominal pain, and control nervous coughs.

Can it help with constipation?

• Yes, it is useful in treating obstinate constipation, especially when the intestines feel swollen or sensitive.

Is it safe to use Tannic Acid locally?

• Yes, in diluted forms (one-half percent solution), it is used for local applications, particularly to stop bleeding and manage excessive sweating or osmidrosis.