Rhus toxicodendron is a homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic medicine, developed in the late eighteenth century by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, is based on the principle of "like equals like." In an attempt to treat symptoms and stimulate the body's healing response, tiny amounts of plant, animal or mineral substances are given that--in larger amounts--would cause the same symptoms in a healthy person. Homeopathy is an alternative therapy, and not intended to replace conventional medical treatment. If you would like to try Rhus toxicodendron, consult your doctor first.
Ingredients in Rhus Toxicodendron Remedy
Rhus toxicodendron is made from the fresh leaves and stalks of the poison ivy plant, a vinelike shrub which grows throughout North America and which is notorious for its ability to cause itchy rashes. The extreme dilution of homeopathic remedies allows for the use of substances that would ordinarily be toxic or even fatal; due to this dilution, the toxic properties of the poison ivy are rendered harmless. Homeopaths believe that a memory, or "essence," of the plant remains in the remedy and provides healing qualities.
Preparation of Rhus Toxicodendron
Herbs 20000 notes that homeopaths believe the poison ivy leaves for the remedy must be gathered at night, when the volatile oils are thought to be most potent.The plant must be growing in its native environment, and only the most physically perfect specimens are harvested. According to Beneforce, the poison ivy leaves must be harvested before the flowering season. Leaves and stalks are pounded to a pulp and steeped in alcohol to create the mother tincture, then strained, diluted and succussed--or shaken--many times. Homeopaths believe that the more a remedy is diluted, the more potent it becomes. In the decimal scale of dilution, the potency is diluted ten times each time. These potencies are indicated by the potency's number, followed by the letter "X". In the alternate centesimal system, the potencies are diluted 100 times, and indicated by the number and letter "C."
Use in Homeopathy
Given the homeopathic philosophy of "like cures like," otherwise known as the Law of Similars, it is logical that practitioners prescribe Rhus toxicodendron to treat skin complaints--especially those with burning, itching, blistering or swollen skin--including diaper rash, eczema, and psoriasis. A homeopathic practitioner may also recommend Rhus toxicodendron for colds and flu. Beneforce notes that still other uses include sore throats, sciatica, and muscular aches and pains. Elixirs.com recommends Rhus tox for arthritis, especially if the pain improves when the patient moves around. Homeopaths take personality types and predilections into account when prescribing medications; Herbs 2000 notes that the personality type for rhus tox is irritable and depressed, and sometimes has suicidal inclinations. Crying for no reason, being anxious, being mistrustful of medications, and being intolerant to cold and damp are other traits that indicate a person who may benefit from Rhus tox.
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