Structural Homeopathy

Sickness during early pregnancy

2012-01-22T08:42:00.001-08:00

[I] Nux vomica (Loganaceae x Typhoid*) : Normally busy and ambitious, they can be abrupt and don't suffer fools gladly; they have to get things done before relaxing.

Symptoms: Nausea, especially in the morning and after eating, may respond to this remedy. She may retch a lot and have the urge to vomit, often without success. Her stomach feels sensitive and crampy, and she may be constipated.

[II] Ipecacuanha (Rubaceae x Typhoid*): Normally enjoys stimulation but easily gets bored and annoyed.

Symptoms: Intense and constant nausea that is felt all day (not only in the morning) with retching and belching. Worse after eating. There can be a white tongue with sour taste and profuse salivation. Nausea not improved by vomiting.

[III] Asarum (Aristolochaceae x Ringworm**): Ambitious and haughty but delicate (sensitive and easily upset by obstacles).

Symptoms: Waves of nausea and retching. There is watery saliva but tongue is clean in this remedy. Cool drinks or food may help, but it is hard for her to even think of eating. She is extremely sensitive to everything—especially noise, which can aggravate the nauseous feelings. Forehead aches. Also well known remedy for backache.

[IV] Sepia: Irritable, sad and worn-out. Had enough of her family.

Symptoms: Gnawing, intermittent nausea with an empty feeling in the stomach. She feels worst in the morning before she eats, but is not improved by eating and may vomit afterward. Nausea can be worse when she is lying on her side. Odours of any kind may aggravate the symptoms. Sensation of a lump in the stomach. Heaviness or sensation of a load in the abdomen.

*The feeling in the Typhoid Miasm is that "I have to address this problem right now".
** In the Ringworm Miasm there is a struggle against pessimism, "Oh, not again. I thought I'd got over that".

Hypnotherapy script to evoke healing Soma

2012-01-15T07:23:00.001-08:00

Use your normal induction method and when relaxed introduce these suggestions...

Would you like to imagine that your body can invoke its own healing response? A healing response that you can control at will, amplifying and turning on and off as needed? Just like the volume on your stereo ... it goes all the way to 11.

You have tried relaxation and meditation in the past and you have experienced how wonderfully relaxed your body can become, the wonderful sense of peace and calm this state of relaxation can bring about.

This time I want you to imagine that in this relaxed state your body is now producing a little pool of wonderful somatic healing fluid, it is quite heavy, slightly oily and a little sticky and it is pale red. It resides in our brain tissue and in our spinal column. This fluid contains all the healing chemicals and components our body needs, a flow of endorphins, and even finer bliss molecules, superfine particles that flow through our bodies when we are happy or high ....that science has yet to discover ... we don't need to know their names ... we just know they make us feel happy ... and now you feel very blissful as they are build up, inside you, ready to flood all the sorley parts with a beautiful, unctuous and warming glow.

If you like you can imagine this healing fluid is rather like honey, it is quite like honey, it gently bathes your tissues and cells in the softness and sweetness of life.

Imagine, if you will, that this blissfully healing elixir of life now overflows, it flows, dripping softly down from the crown of your head into your spine, and from there it flows, dripping and spreading, softly down every nerve and channel and beginning to spread down every nerve and channel, spreading gently all over your back and sides. Let it flow now. That's right. All over. Doesn't that feel wonderful?

Healing, fluid warmth flows into your tissues and even into your bones, gently soothing, warming and relaxing every layer of muscle, every sinew and tendon all the way to your marrow ... warm, comforting, relaxing, just like the summer sun. Relax and enjoy these special relaxing, comfortable sensations for a moment or two. That's right, relax ... let go now... enjoy.

These healing molecules flow, by nature into every little nook and cranny, bathing every cell in their warm healing glow. Can you imagine every cell stretching out in the sun and relaxing? Take a moment or two. Let them relax ... deeply immersed into ... bathing in ... this happy, sunny sensation.

As its warmth gently and smoothly penetrates and soothes every painful part you can feel those parts smiling and relaxing. They are bathed in molecules of bliss.... molecules of life. The sense of relaxation is timeless and wonderful. It goes on and on, like an eternity in an hour. So very relaxing. So blissful. That's right. That's wonderful. This level of relaxation is rare and so very special.

How can tension exist in this special blissful feeling? This feeling that you have let yourself experience now. Tensions dissolve into relaxation and bliss allowing natural healing to begin. Let you body rest and heal. That's right. That's wonderful. As you notice the tension leaving your back and sides you notice how remarkably comfortable and relaxed you now feel all over your body. Just let yourself go. Let go. Relax completely.

Post hypnotic suggestions

Can you remember when you felt so relaxed? You will be able to relax, just like this again, anytime you want to. You will be able to settle down whenever you want, very easily, then just turn the dial to 11 and the relaxation will flow again, beautifully and effortlessly.

And as the day goes by you will feel more relaxed, more energised. You might recall this special sense of restful healing from time to time ... or you might forget. It doesn't matter. It will be there anyway. Gently and unobtrusively working for you all through the day and deep into the night ... when you fall into a very special, beautiful and healing slumber.

WHO - F60.1 Schizoid personality disorder

2012-01-14T06:45:00.001-08:00

Thesis: Homeopaths are reluctant to group remedies around any specific condition.   Is there any benefit in proposing this kind of grouping?

F60.1 Main points
Individuals with Schizoid Personality Disorder may have particular difficulty expressing anger, even in response to direct provocation, which contributes to the impression that they lack emotion. Their lives sometimes seem directionless. Such individuals often react passively to adverse circumstances. Because of their lack of social skills and lack of desire for sexual experiences, individuals with this disorder have few friendships, date infrequently, and often do not marry. Employment or work functioning may be impaired.

    * Neither desires nor enjoys close relationships, including being part of a family
    * Almost always chooses solitary activities
    * Has little, if any, interest in having sexual experiences with another person
    * Takes pleasure in few, if any, activities
    * Lacks close friends or confidants other than first-degree relatives
    * Appears indifferent to the praise or criticism of others
    * Shows emotional coldness, detachment, or flattened affectivity

Rubrics indicating Schizoid disorder ...

    MIND - EMOTIONS - predominated by the intellect       8
     MIND - COMPANY - aversion to                                    249
     MIND - COMPANY - aversion to - desire for solitude   87
     MIND - ESTRANGED - family; from his                         27
     MIND - INDIFFERENCE - family, to his                         23
     MIND - INDIFFERENCE - joy of others; to                    32
     MIND - INDIFFERENCE - everything, to                    112
     MIND - UNFEELING                                                        51
     MIND - SENSITIVE - want of sensitiveness                 30

The rubrics indicate the following group may help in the treatment of F.60.1 disorders ....

positr. nat-m. sep. nat-sil. lyc. con. nux-v. staph. phos. plat. tritic-vg. op. sulph. sal-fr. bell. hep. nit-ac. plut-n. falco-pe. podo. ozone. anac.

Positron, at the top of the list feels heavy and isolated. Some describe the state as serene, they are enchanted by perfection and irritated by disorder and entropy. In this sate they do not wish to be disturbed or to mix socially.

MIND - DELUSIONS - invaded; one's space is being
MIND - ESCAPE, attempts to - family and children; attempts to escape from her
MIND - ESCAPE, attempts to - run away, to
MIND - ESTRANGED - family; from his
MIND - ESTRANGED - society, from
MIND - HATRED - humankind; of
IRRITABILITY - disturbed, when

The F60.1 core diagnostic points are present in the Positron proving, but F60.1 Schiziod category does not really tell us much about the essential nature of Postironium. It has no mass but it seems to produce a very heavy contemplative state. They dont want their contemplations to be disturbed by trivia. The theme of not caring is marked, but there is a more universal compassion. The focus is on matters of more universal concern - as opposed to social interaction.

However, provings produce symptoms and states in healthy subjects - two postiron cases have been described by David Johnson (Hpathy). Both were significantly withdrawn proir to the remedy. They seem to feel ungrounded and insubstantial. He described this withdrawal 'as having a sense of being physically present but not truly interacting with others'.

Both did start to improve their interactions with others afterwards (http://forums.hpathy.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=10673).

The heaviness invoked by the remedy seems to have provided some degree of social grounding in these cases. Although the F60.1 grouping does not describe the individual nature of the remedies very well it does give some indication of their clinical application.

WHO - F60.0 Paranoid personality disorder

2012-01-14T05:06:00.001-08:00

Thesis: Homeopaths are reluctant to group remedies around any specific condition.   Is there any benefit in proposing this kind of grouping?

F60.0: Web Definition
A pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others such that their motives are interpreted as malevolent, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by four (or more) of the following:

* Suspects, without sufficient basis, that others are harming, or deceiving him
* Preoccupied with unjustified doubts about the loyalty of friends or associates
* Reluctant to confide in others for fear that it will be used against him
* Reads hidden threatening meanings into benign remarks
* Persistently bears grudges, i.e., is unforgiving of insults, injuries, or slights
* Perceives attacks on his character and is quick to counterattack
* Has recurrent suspicions, without justification, regarding fidelity of partner

Rubrics suggesting Paranoid Disorder -
MIND - SUSPICIOUS 137
MIND - DELUSIONS - accused, she is 2
MIND - DELUSIONS - criticized, she is 36
MIND - DELUSIONS - appreciated, she is not 25
MIND - DELUSIONS - persecuted - he is persecuted 63
MIND - FEAR - poisoned - being poisoned; fear of 31
MIND - DELUSIONS - pursued; he was 36
MIND - DELUSIONS - enemy - surrounded by enemies 10

Remedies in 4 or more rubrics - gives the following paranoid disorder group

hyos. anac. lach. dros. verat. zinc. laur. positr. kali-br. rhus-t. ars. bell. merc. stram. aids. aur. carc. ign. staph. verat-v. ambr. hydrog. moni. plb. sulph.

Hyoscamus, the top remedy in this group is well known for its lack of trust, especailly in childhood. These children may have a close bond with one parent, usually their mother that is difficult to break. This bonding is often associated with fear and domestic violence.   They feel unwanted and that they themselves are to blame for all their parents neglect.

In adults this insecurity manifests in the delusion that their spouse is unfaithful. They become very jealous and the sense of betrayal can result in violence. Eventually they become suspicious of everyone. The feeling is that people are out to 'get you'.

Conclusion: This group of remedies should arise in any case of Paranoid personality disorder. It follows that although this kind of grouping is very broad, covering a wide range of possible presentations, it gives a rough and ready diagnostic tool, however individual differences and characteristics determine the final remedy selection. This final differentiation only comes from a close understanding of each remedy.

A richer description of Hyos (and other plant remedies) can be found at my Plants Database Project: http://www.homeopathynowdatabase.co.uk/app/kingdom.html ; click on 'Solanales'.

Remedies from the Garden - The Tiger Lily

2012-01-10T08:39:00.001-08:00

There's a rough patch at the bottom of my garden where nothing grows but weeds. This is not quite true, however, because I have seen a yearly succession of wonderful colonists find a home in this little niche.
In early summer small clump of Tiger Lilies unfold their beautiful flowers, and I can be proud of the fact that they have made her home in my modest little plot.

The Tiger Lily is a refined, precious, delicate, feminine and glamorous flower, and gazing upon her can evoke feelings of excitement and passion. It is little wonder that the Tiger Lily has become an important Homeopathic remedy for female problems. The homeopathic picture that has evolved from many careful trials, is of a haughty, domineering woman, her sense of self-importance is such that her very presence makes lesser mortals cower. An example from popular culture would be Corrie's Sylvia Cropper, the outspoken mother of café owner Roy, who can only be seen to associate with a 'better class' of gentleman.

Homeopathy has suffered much in the press, but despite this many dedicated individuals pursue this discipline. I emphasise dedication because the homeopathic properties of any remedy are found by testing its effects on healthy subjects - usually students! To accomplish this a sample is ground up with mortar and pestle and then subject to a series of dilutions, which are vigorously agitated at each stage. These dilutions determine the potency of the final product.

The properties of the original sample are of course, the same as those reported by chemists, herbalists, and sometimes from reported cases of poisoning. Poisonings show the full impact of the substance upon our health in the most dramatic way possible. In case you were wondering, the Tiger Lily is non toxic for humans, in fact the bulbs are edible - but some species will give your cat acute kidney failure. In Herbal medicine its affinity for the female reproductive system is acknowledged - a tincture from the plants is used to relieve uterine neuralgia and ittiration. It is also said to reduce sickness in pregnancy.

The Flower Essence remedy, which is made by letting the flowers stand in a bowl of water in the sun, is said to promote feminine values in our arguably over-masculinised culture gently and without aggression. We might well have a modicum of scepticism for this gentle method of preparation, but in general the themes reported by Flower Essence enthusiasts do have some degree of correspondence with those found in the Homeopathic literature. It is at least worth noting that this theme of gently allowing the penetration of female values is quite similar to Homeopathic interpretation of the remedy as 'the overbearing female' who subsequently becomes a much gentler and friendlier person.

The information from all these sources is invaluable as it gives a broad impression of the potential impact of a remedy on our body. As you would intuitively expect Homeopathic dilution reduces the most harmful effects of the original substance. In a serial dilution of 6c there is very little of the original substance left. This is, by and large, depending on the toxicity of the substance, considered to be the lowest potency that is safe to prescribe without poisoning the subject. The effects of this potency are quite physical. The higher potencies tend to effect the emotional and mental spheres.

Quite a remarkable picture has emerged from the trials of Tiger Lily (these are known as provings)
Participants in past provings reported a feeling of disconnection and aloofness. It is quite an irritable and humourless state and offence is easily taken because there is a feeling that her 'beautific' state must never be besmirched by anything remotely vulgar. It is as if this sense of poise is really quite fragile and can easily be overwhelmed by ordinary feelings.
There is conflict between that which is fine and respectable and that which is deemed unworthy. Sexual feelings do arise and they play havoc with this sense of poise.

Some characteristic physical symptoms (extracted from T.F. Allen) show how her mood is quite dependent on her physical complaints ...

- Tormented about her salvation (Lyc., Sulph., Ver.), with ovarian or uterine complaints.
- Disposed to curse, strike, to think obscene things (Anac., Lac. c.); alternates with uterine irritation.
- Listless, yet cannot sit still; restless; must keep busy to repress sexual desire.
- Desire to do something, hurried manner, yet has no ambition; aimless (Arg. n.).
- Headaches and mental ailments depending on uterine irritation or displacements.
- Menstrual irregularities and irritable heart.

No wonder Tiger Lily has a reputation as a wonderful remedy during the menopause, helping the natural expression of sexual feelings and easing many of the concomitant physical symptoms.

T.F. Allen: Encylopedia of Pure Materia Medica
Anandaapocathery

Relationship between Sankaran's Sensation and the Doshas

2011-11-07T10:21:00.000-08:00

Ericales::Ericaceae : Chimaphila umbellata (Wintergreen)

Cultural ecology: An evergreen herb found in the United States and Northern Europe. American Indians realised that it has an affinity for the urinary sphere and hardened or atrophied glands.

A. L. Blackwood: Its diuretic action relieves inflammation of the urinary tract and also removes oedema. It is also a digestive tonic. It is indicated in haematuria, ischuria, dysuria and gonorrhoea when there is urging to urinate, burning and scalding and straining following urination.

J.H Clarke: It has been used with success in cases of : inflammation of liver with ascites; abdominal and renal dropsies; enlarged mesenteric glands; The symptom : "Sensation of swelling in perineum on sitting, as if a ball was pressing against it," shows its appropriateness in prostatic disorders.

T. F. Allen: The patient is stupid and sleepy. Very nervous, cannot bear anything at all; hot, irritable, restless; thinks diseased state of the blood irritates the skin, as before the eruption of erysipelas, scarlet fever, or measles; itches terribly.

Urinary ...

Melancholy. Alcoholism. Stupid and sleepy
Urethral discharge, gonorrhoeal, chronic.
Bladder, fullness, inflammation, catarrh.
Urging to urinate - frequent.
Urine - sediment - mucous, gelatinous, red.

Cancer ...

Chest, Mammae: induration; nodules, sensitive.
Cancer: Bladder. Kidney. Prostate.
Skin, ulcers, cancerous.

Oedema ...

Generals, dropsy, from intermittant fever.
Abdomen, dropsy, ascites.

Sensations: Bladder: Pressing. Prostrate: As if sitting on a ball.
Therapeutics: Alcohol related (Oedma). Bladder. Kidneys
Miasm: Cancer or Sycosis (Go. Sx.).

Herbal action: Diuretic, alterative, and astringent.

The Herbal action of Chimaphila, especially the diurectic effect, can be used to help understand how the Homeopathic proving symptoms listed above can be used to understand the inner workings of the remedy - that is, its effects on the three doshas of Ayurveda.

This is because the astringent and diuretic effects are directly addressed by the plants Bitterness and Astringency. In Ayurveda, astringency is caused by a combination of the Air and Earth elements so the effect is drying and cooling. Bitterness is a combination of Air and Ether and its effect is drying, cooling and penetrating.

Ayurveda: Frawley: Mainly bitter (ether + air => cool, light, dry); PK-V+

The symptoms show aggravation of Pitta and Kapha doshas. Interpretation of the state of the three doshas in these rubrics (see figure also) shows how the remedy works at different stages of disease.

Kapha aggravation (water element) results in catarrh, oedema and ascites when sticky, fluid kapha molecules leak out of their normal channels. Those with long standing kapa aggravation devlop thick mucous deposits in various places, which eventually begin to become inseperable from the tissues and begin to harden or even form tumours and cause pressing sensations.

The cooling, light and penetrating properties of bitter herbs like chimaphila are vata characterisitcs which help break up heavy kapha deposits. Bitter herbs, because they are light and sharp can also pacify cutting and stabbing sensations.

Pitta aggravation (fire element) causes inflammation and burning sensations. Excess heat is cooled by bitter and astringent substances and excess stickiness and oiliness is dried up.

In conclusion the correspondence between the bitter properties of the herb (light, drying and penetrating) and the symptoms is clearly demonstrated. These properties address the disordered state of the doshas and tissues. It is also clear that sensations such as cutting, burning, pressure, etc are closely related to the characteristics of the aggravated doshas accumulated effect on the channels (srotas) and tissue layers (dhatus).

An understanding of the herbal action and state of the three doshas allows us to pack much more information into any remedy description. The established Homeopathic Shorthand of "Miasm", "Stage", and "Sensation" can be extended to include Herbal and Ayurvedic properties.

Rasa (taste) and Virya (energy)

2011-10-07T10:31:00.000-07:00

Rasa and Virya (under construction)

The interaction of the elements with the Doshas

The Rasa (taste) and Virya (energy) of a substance or food (food is regarded as medicine in Ayurveda) can be used to predict what effects it will have on the doshas using the principle of 'like increases like'. Kapha, which is cold, heavy and dull is increased in winter, and Pitta, which is hot, mobile and sharp, increases in summer. Vata, which is dry, light and cold also increases in autumn as the cold winds begin to blow.

Kapha, which is basically mucous, is a mixture of the earth and water elements, has the properties of fluidity and density. If we add a dense, sticky substance to a site of Kapha aggravation the site will become even denser and eventually blocked. Knowing this we should try to reduce the Kapha aggravation by prescribing a substance with the opposite qualities, i.e. dry, light, and hot. The light and hot qualities can liquify heavy, fatty obstructions. The drying quality can reduce the stickiness, or oiliness of the obstruction. These particular qualities are found in pungent foods and herbs.

An inbalance in the doshas can be corrected quite easily by paying attention the aggravating factors. When the doshas first become unbalanced the endoderm is affected quite quickly, first giving rise to quantitative psoric changes. If the prodromal psoric symptoms are ignored the aggravation grows and spreads until eventually sycotic symptoms arise in the ectoderm. When the inbalance is severe enough, and prolonged enough, the deeper tissues of the mesoderm are struturally affected giving rise to more sycotic and even syphilitic changes.

It is important to recognise the early signs of disease and do something about it! A change in dietry habits, especially an informed and thereby increased sensitivity to the bodies own promptings and cravings for different tastes may be sufficient. In most cases (i.e. other than addictions) your cravings are telling you what to do. This is why food cravings are given such emphasis in Homeopathy.

The attributes associated with Rasa and Virya are so important that the original Sankskrit name, Gunas, is still used today to describe their interaction with the three doshas. An assesment of these Gunas, or attributes, is starting point for the determination of potential interaction of any substance with the Doshas.

Here's a listing of the twenty opposing Gunas - with Doshic affinity in brackets ...

Heavy (K) <-> Light (P)
Cold (V) <-> Hot (P)
Static (K) <-> Mobile (V)
Soft (K) <-> Hard
Oily (P) <-> Dry (V)
Transparent (V) <-> Cloudy (K)
Dull (K ) <-> Sharp (P)
Smooth (K) <-> Rough (V)
Gross (K) <-> Subtle (V)
Dense (K) <-> Liquid (P)

At first glance the list is rather daunting, but as one gradually becomes more familiar with Ayurveda one starts looking at available foods in a different way. The biochemical approach to nutrition, that of studying proteines, carbs, vits and so on begins to seem rather mechanical. One begins to use observation and gradually develop a deeper appreciation of how these qualities affect us our body. We can gradually become sensitisive to what our body is asking for - instead of mechanically applying some formulaic dietry plan.

In principle, astringent substances, which are drying, cooling and heavy will reduce Kapha in certain conditions.
- In a condition of excess Kapha, such as a runny nose, the drying energy reduces the excess liquid. Astringency, having an earthy component makes Kapha heavier and denser. Following this line of thiking an pungent substance (e.g. garlic), wich is light, drying and warming would benefit a cold where there is heavy congestion more than an astringent substance (e.g. rhubarb).

Similarly the cooling energy will reduce pitta and tend to make kapha molecules move slowly, become sticky and even solidify.

We have to consider all three Doshas when selecting a therapeutic food or a herb. Pitta dosha, the fire of combustion and chemical energy in the body, is increased by substances with warming energy, especially by the pungent taste, which is light, drying and warming. At the same time warming energy makes kapha more mobile. The consequence of increasing Pitta is that excess Kapha will be burned off.

Vata, which is by nature quick, dry and cold, is increased by the dry quality of pungent substances and decreased by the heat.

The elemental qualities of the Six main Tastes

Taste is imparted by the sap of the plant - its essence. The dominant elements affect the taste, e.g. Sweet is a mixture of Earth + Water. Sweet taste has a warming energy.

Salty taste is a mixture of Fire + Water. It has a warming energy (think of hot water), which increases Pitta. The water element makes salty tasting substances quite heavy. This tends to increase Kapha.

Astringency has drying (air) and heavy (earth) properties. The drying property reduces kapha (earth/water). Since astringent herbs have a cooling effect they tend to reduce pitta (fire).

The bitter taste has drying, light rasas and cooling virya. The rasas increase vata and reduce kapha, whilst the cooling virya decreases pitta.

So - its possible to re-classify the plant remedies according to Rasa/Virya. There's no conflict with Misha's circular Mappa Mundi system of elemental correspondancies. The two layouts, one circular and the other vertical, as above, compliment each other.

Homeopathic Potency and Ayurveda

Ayurveda, like Herbal Medicine, is a study of substances, often in the form of tictures or powders, which are derived from the mother substance, usually the living plant. Homeopathy is a study of the behaviour of the same substances in potency. The Nutritional and Homeopathic pathways differ slightly - I would like to suggest that the homeopathic pathway seems to be the reverse. The energetic attributes (gunas) of the remedy appear to affect the subtle layers first.

Mother substances and tinctures, when taken orally first impact on the digestestive tract, the Anna Vaha Srotas (food channel); after being broken down they circulate through the body in the plasma (rasa dhatu). Eventually superfine molecules circulate through finer and more subtle channels and dhatus to the nerves, spinal cord and brain.

The superfine molecules help nourish Ojas which is derived from Kapha dosha, Tejas which is derived from Pitta dosha, and Prana which is derived from Vata. Para Ojas is present as subtle drops of 'nectar' in the heart chakra and gives rise to great bliss in meditation. It is described as soma in Rig Veda.

Dr. Vasant Lad describes Tejas as "the burning flame of intelligence", and it gives rise to pure awareness when we meditate on emptiness. Prana allows us to combine bliss with emptiness. This meditation enhances all the Koshas, the subltle sheaths of the body and mind which are intimately connected with the Chakras.

Substances in potency affect the subtle channels immediately. The subtle Koshas, especially Manomaya Kosha (discrimination), are directly affected, via Mano vaha srotas (subtle channels and inner winds*) instead of being transported and transformed by the delicate processes in the body.

A prescription, in higher potency, which is truly well indicated will affect the subtle Koshas and Chakras beneficially and stimulate a healing response. The healing changes and adjustments then emanate throughout the body from these subtle levels down to the tissues.

A poorly selected prescription, which does not correspond to the patients real inner being, is experienced by the subtle sheaths as alien, causing proving symptoms to appear, possibly along with aggravation and shock.   According to Dr. Lad the same happens with injections, because the vaccine isn't naturally and gently transformed by the bodies subtle energies (agni in sanskrit).

Clearly, even more care is required with very high potencies. In Ayurveda, as in Homeopathy, the deepest curative potential of any herb will not be demonstrated in any individual selected at random. The Ayurvedic practioner takes a full case to determine the discrepancy between an individuals Prakriti (original constitution) and their Vikruti (clinical presentaion).

* Different traditions describe the subtle channels and winds in their own way. All seem to agree that these channels connect us to to the outside world of experience and converge on the chakras. The simplest way I can think of to explain the concept of 'inner winds' is to imagine what would be left if your thoughts stopped. This is exactly what happens in Mahamudra meditiation - the inner winds, from gross to subtle, are drawn into the central channel by the force of concentration. As these winds settle thoughts and delusions decrease untill we are left focussed on the nature of the mind itself.

Introducing my friend Dendoraspis, the Black Mamba

2011-05-02T09:20:00.000-07:00

Dendoraspis, the Black Mamba is a ferocious member of the Elapidae, who all proteroglyphis, i.e. having rigid fangs. Other members of the Elipidae include the Cobras (Naja), Kraits (Bungarus) and the deadly Taipan (Oxyuranus).

The venom, which is neurotoxic and usually fatal, runs down a groove in the fang. The bite causes drowsiness and neurological and neuromuscular symptoms, leading to paralysis and heart and lung failure. Death is by asphixiation. It affects acetylcholine receptors in both the peripheral (sympathetic) and central nervous system. In the CNS, ACh affects arousal. In the PNS it affect muscle fibers.

Meet the homeopathic Mamba

The Mamba feels injured and alone, and he feels it's his duty to fight for others in the same situation. So, the Mamba is quite sad and sentimenatal and because of this he will extend his sympathy - but he can also become censorious, dictatorial and cruel.

They are quarrelsome by nature and this is what you get if you argue with this guy ...

Malicious. Anger: Sudden and violent - from contradiction.
Unfeeling. Kill; desire to - contradicts her; the person that
Loquacitity - Cursing. Answering hastily, violently and deceitfully.
Liar. Always avoiding any blame.

It is a quite a sexual remedy. In the sphere of dreams we find a strange and violent sexuality which is mixed with torture and rape. They also dream of danger, dangerous animals and of defending their family.

How many remedies dreams of a monk with an erection? Dendroapis does. It's the percieved hypocracy that they can't abide. Everyone's a liar to Dendroaspis ... even you!

It's no use protesting, you'll just make it so much worse for yourself.

Run for it ...

Dendroaspis Physicals (Arterial Conjestion)
- Head pain - Temples - right.
- Head pain - burning - forehead.
- Head pain - sharp.
- Generals - pain: sudden, shooting or neuralgic.

Bio-Stategy: "Don't mess with me".
Compare: Staphy; Dysprosium; Thulium.

Mamba toxins:
Fasciculins: block synapses causing tetany and death.
Dendrotoxins: inhibit nerotansmitters, which causes paralysis.

Compare the Mamba with the rattler, Crotalus horridus, a member of the Viperideae family, (sub-family Crotalinae) - who all have huge, folding fangs, also feels under attack ...

DELUSIONS - insulted, he is - looked down upon

He really thinks that he's pretty cool!

T.F. Allen's Encyclopedia; Crot-h; Physicals (Arterial Conjestion)
The bite cause edema and tissue destruction. It quickly causes hemorrhage and hematomas. It causes coagulopathy, where like thrombin, it clots fibrinogen and aggregates platelets. It also causes systemic muscle necrosis.
- Headache, extending into the eyes.
-Pressive frontal headache, followed by sensation of nausea.
- Dull stitches in both temples.
- Sudden violent drawing pain from the vertex into the right eye. Pressure deep in the orbits, behind the ears, and in the nasal bones, so that, as with the pressure in the temples, he is obliged to bite the teeth together,

Crot-h toxins:
-Neurotoxin: Phospholipase (PLA2), which is a melittin compound, which releases arachidonic acid from cell membranes causing pain and inflammation.
-Myotoxins such as crotamine, which paralyse and cause necrosis of muscles.
-Fibrinogen clotting enzymes; where coagulation is disrupted causing bleeding from wounds, the GI tract and lungs.
-Bradykinins, which cause blood vessels to dilate, reducing blood pressure. It also increases vascular permeability. Both effects result in inflammation and pain.

Crot-c, like most snake remedies, can be angry, destructive, competetive, cruel and suspicious.

CONTRADICTION - intolerant of contradiction

Crot-cascavella is a little more playful and sociable and there seems to be slightly more remorse and guilt.

T.F. Allen's Encyclopedia; Crot-c; Physicals (Arterial Conjestion)
- This is the right handed snake remedy: Head pain side - right.
- The entire skullcap compresses the brain like an iron helmet.
- Painful pressure in the temples.Very acute lancinations in the right temple.
- Forehead. Frontal headache, as if the head would split, with weight above the eyes.
- Cutting sensation all around the eyeball, as if it was being taken out with a penknife
- Pain under the right orbit, and at the right side of the forehead.
- Sensation as if a red-hot iron were stuck into the vertex.
- Red face. Flushes of heat. Oppression of breathing, as though there were not air enough in the house.
- Palpitation of the heart

Crot cascavella can help after a stroke ...

EXTREMITIES - PARALYSIS - hemiplegia - right

Lachesis (Ophidia) Fam: Viperidae/Crotalinae

Lachesis is another cool and sociable type, although trust can be an issue - they be friendly whilst reserving their judgment about you. A trivial mistunderstanding can spark off a serious quarrel.

T.F. Allen: "Becomes easily peevish and mistrustful;believes himself intentionally injured by all his environments, and attaches the most hateful significance to the most innocent occurrences".

Lachesis; Physical Symptoms (Arterial conjestion)
The bite causes swelling and pain with local tissue destruction and coagulopathy. There is also loss of blood pressure and a decreased heart rate.
- Congestion of head. Deep internal Headache.
- Rush of blood to the head for a few hours in the forenoon, especially on stooping, preceded by headache above the right eye.
- Throbbing pain above the right eye, with nausea.
- Pulsating pain in the right temple, that extends into the right orbit.
- Headache extending into the root of the nose with drawing, jerking, tensive sensation in the bones of the skull and cheeks.
- Feeling as if some one were cutting pieces from the right parietal bone.
- Sticking in the vertex and temples, as with knives and forks;extending through the whole head, with catarrh and stiffness of the nape of the neck,

Lachesis toxins: Viper toxins plus ...
Haemotoxins: destroy RBCs by haemolysis.

Refs: Info on toxins plus thumbnail images : Wikipedia

A heart of Stone - Jade Proving Diary

2011-01-07T03:48:00.000-08:00

Homeopathic Jade - one of the most beautiful remedies in the MM. At 1M the energy it stimulates rises through each chakra giving strength and purity. It feels lik a 'hard' remedy. Perhaps its hardness is the basis for its strength-giving aspect. The beauty and clarity of the stone is the basis for the clarity and light it provides. The combined effect produces a wonderful sense of renewal, revitalisation and determination.

If Jade has a voice it says ... "I will go on."

There is an affinity for the Kidneys; in T.C.M. they are source of one of the main essences of life - Jing. You are born with a certain amount but it can be replenished.

At one point, I experienced a pleasant tingling sensation in that reg...ion, and subsequently a pleasant upward stream of cleansing energy.
Using a simple Chi-Kung circulation technique I found I could direct the flow into any chakra or area, feeling as if I was washing and clearing out subtle deposits of toxicity ('Ama' in Ayurveda).
I slept lightly but woke refreshed.

- The overall 'feel' is a bit like Silica, but much nicer. Nephrite does contains silicates of Ca and Mg.See more
  I felt quite focussed during the day, but by 5pm I was getting a bit of a headache ... it felt like my brain-case was too hard. My lower back felt a bit stiff too. I had a lie down and I dri...fted into a nice relaxed and refreshing state for an hour or so.
- Today, day 2, I feel quite 'bright'. In meditation the energy was quite definately 'stuck' in my head - normally I meditate on my heart chakra, which is usually a 'softer' slighly more diffuse feeling
- On Day 3, yesterday, I felt SOFT. I let Sophoclese T. Cat sit on my knee for once. I found myself crying for the ooor old thing. The hardness of the remedy found something HARD in me to resonate with, Hard vs. Soft ... "Law of Similars", do you see
- Jade is also know as SANGYESHAM PISHTI, which is used to treat, kidney disorders and hypertension of cardiac and renal origin.
  It also helps children build bones and develop more intelligence.
  [Ref: NLAM].
  On Day 4, whilst doing the shopping I noticed that I felt exceptionally un-hurried, really just much more "chilled-out" than usual. Cool!
  
  HOWEVER, on Day 5 I felt well bothered about an incident last year, where I had to suppress my anger - ...in a situation where I HAD TO 'be nice' ... or get the sack. As a rule I don't like being nice when I'm annoyed. The conflict is that it feels like I'm letting myself down by being a pathetic wimp ... or worse, just being a daft tw*t for even being there. I'm a pushover. Too soft.
  
  Too much thinking ... felt like some 'zzzzs'; woke feeling softer and quite fluffy.
  Got a tune on my mind ...
  
  "Love is the answer ...
  ...Gotta let it grow" (John Lennon).
  
  Homeo' remedies can often point out buried, unresolved and ongoing emotions from the past!
  P'haps the theme of the remedy : TOO HARD vs. TOO SOFT ...
  ... and its resonance, like water, finds it own level and then comes to rest in a balanced and peaceful place.
  Where there is emotional hardness there is softening. Where there is softness there is strength.
  
  P'haps the miasm of Jade is Cancer: "Things will be destroyed if I do not keep control" (Sankaran)
  
  Potential Use: Where the emotions have become hardened by frustration and anger. It is almost as if the fire of anger (Pitta) has baked the emotions dry. All that's left is Vata - the intellect.
  Perhaps its a remedy for those who never cry, but who really need to feel the softness of tears.
  
  In terms of Scholten's Stages it seems to correspond with the middle and with right side of the Periodic Table. Stage 9, which just before the peak is only satisfied with perfection. Stage 11 is just over the peak, feeling slightly disenchanted and needing a little extra impetus to get back on top. There is more struggle in Stg 12. Quite like a tired old 'Carcinosin'. Stage 13 has almost reached the point of giving up.
  
  Jade may be helpful in resolving the crisis of confidence found in all of these stages.

Ayurveda - Vata: Aspects of Clarity and Awareness

2010-12-26T03:55:00.000-08:00

Arg-nit is the archetypal remedy for fear of heights and for the fear of being closed in. These symptoms are actually addressed by the Nitrogen element. Nitrogen's contribution to the action of the remedy can be seen from the rubrics of gaseous Nitrogenium.

FEAR - causeless
FEAR - crowd, in a
FEAR - elevators; of
FEAR - flying; of
FEAR - narrow place, in
FEAR - strangers, of
FEAR - tunnels; of
FEAR - walking - of walking

The fears found in the gaseous elments, Oxygenium and Nitrogenium, are highly characteristic of a derangement of the air element - called Vata, in Ayurvedic Medicine.

The characteristics of Vata these gases show are light, dry subtle, mobile and clear. The light quality gives alertness to our awarness. Too much of the light quality causes ungroundedness and spaciness.

Oliness creates cohesion. Without oiliness Vata dosha becomes too dry, which creates a feeling of isolation and separation. This feeling is enhanced by the subtle and clear qualities of the Vata mind. The mobile quality manifests as restlessness.

There are 67 remedies in the rubric FEAR - narrow place, in. The most significant being:
ACON, ARG-N, STRAM followed by Aur-m-n, Bamb-a, Calc, Ign, Lac-d, Lyc, Puls and Tritic-vg.

Can you see how these five aspects of the air element contribute to the overall symptomology of each one?

The morning after

2010-12-05T04:45:00.000-08:00

Symptoms, by definition portray negative states. These frequently emerge under the influence of alcohol! When the alcohol starts to flow we can play a romantic tune and begin to feel sorry for ourselves, usually reminiscing about the good old days when we we younger. This is the state described by the Antimony rubric "reminiscing by moonlight" (if so, it is an excellent remedy for the morning after).

In that particular moment that is our focus and that is what needs to be cured. The mood lifts when the remedy is given. Was it just the drink that brought this on though? If so, everyone would have a similar experience, it is fairly common but not always so. Ignis Alcohol has the rather similar symptom "outpourings of friendliness", so there is definitely a tendency for alcohol to produce a gentler mood.

If we find ourselves relying on alcohol quite frequently another aspect emerges. It may be that we need it to improve our social life, if this is the case we are no longer proving alcohol just for fun - there seems to be a deeper problem, a layer of loneliness, that is temporarily ameliorated by a few drinks and a bit of "pub cheer". Antimony at a higher potency could be indicated, its a Stage 15 remedy and that is the stage where we start to disconnect.

Other remedies for hangover include Ran-b, Cocculus, Coffea and Nux-v. If the alcohol induced mood is dull, morose and confused with a turmoil of recriminations, Cocculus may help. Nux vomica has even darker aspects than Antimony. It's well known for its ambition, and that leads to impatience and fault-finding, and an intolerance of contradiction under which lurks a deeper layer of despondency. These are perhaps the guys who will give you a black eye for accidentally spilling their drink!

Ayurvedic Tridosha and Homeopathic Remedies

2010-11-27T06:29:00.000-08:00

The predominant Ayurvedic attributes of the Ranunculales.

Synopsis: Its interesting to study the way the elements (and hence doshas) become unbalanced in a group of well documented remedies such as the Ranunculaceae. It helps understand the process of pathology in the whole family of remedies. A physiological or psychological inbalance in one dosha, easily seen in the 'ailments from' rubrics, pushes the others out of kilter. Eventually, physical pathology develops.

Recap: Doshas. To understand the effects of a substance (herb, or food) on the doshas we need to know the state of the dosha and the attributes of the substance. Ayurveda usually assumes a 'like increases like' paradigm. A rough substance will therefore increase vata.

Vata (Air + Ether):> Dry Light Cold Rough Subtle Mobile Clear

Pitta (Fire + Water): Hot Sharp Light Liquid Mobile Oily

Kapha (Earth + Water): Heavy Slow Cold Oily Slimy Static

Deconstruction of Pulsatilla Doshas

Misha Norland's study of the elements in Pulsatilla shows that the remedy symptoms tend to be on the phlegmatic <-> choleric axis of the Mappa Mundi. He describes the choleric constitution as a combination of hot and dry elements, which in Ayurvedic terms corresponds to primarily to pitta, but also with a drying vata type influence. He describes the phlegmatic type as cold and wet, which corresponds to kapha.

Bhattacharyya describes Pulsatilla as a Vata and Pitta remedy. A closer look at these aspects of the familiar rubrics describing the mental/emotional state gives a clearer picture.

Pulsatilla: Vata (Intellectual Sphere)

Contrary. Change, desire for. Embittered, exasperated. Hurry.

Pulsatilla: Pitta (Energetic Sphere)

Affectionate. Amorous. Audacity. Effeminate. Adluterous.
Anger, conversation, from; when obliged to answer.

Pulsatilla: Kapha (Emotional Sphere)

Feeling forsaken. Anguish. Loathing, life. Death, desires.

The rubrics taken here also suggest a predominantly Pitta state of emotional volatility.

This is combined with changability, which is a good diagnostic characterisitc of scattered vata.

The phlegmatic axis is related to kapha charateristics, especially softness.

Pulsatilla, is usually personified as gentle and emotionally soft. She likes lots of attention and is sensitive to rejection. She feels sorry for heself when this happens, which is when kapha dosha is affected adversley.

Pulsatilla is by nature capricious. It is clear that all three doshas are disturbed in Pulsatilla, there is a changable, mobile quality to the disturbance, a vata trait, which creates instability in each sphere.

Deconstruction of Staphisagria Doshas
Norland also places Staphisagria on the choleric <-> phlegmatic axis of the Mappa Mundi. He also emphasises a stronger influence of fire and air on the overall situation. Staphisagria does not wish share her emotions when upset, her self-imposed isolation is a cold and 'airy' quality. The 'firey' quality is seen in the way she builds up anger and resentment - until she either becomes dependent on alcohol or she explodes destructively. Perhaps even both at once, a bit like the fictional character Carla, in Coronation St.

Bhattacharya notes that Vata and Kapha doshas predominate.

Staphisagria: Vata (Intellectual Sphere)
Egotism, self-esteem. Delusions, low down, everything beneath him
Ailments, from honor, wounded, reproaches, indignation and rudeness

Staphisagria: Pitta (Energetic Sphere)
Sentimental. Amorous, disposition. Affectionate.
Speechless when angry.
Ailments, from love, unhappy.

Staphisagria: Kapha (Emotional Sphere)
Weeping, easily. Despair. Delusions, unreal, everything seems.
Suicidal, sadness, from.

Staphy is another sexaul remedy and so inherits some of the emotional volatility of Pulsatilla, which is seen the energetic Pitta sphere.

However, in Staphy, the intellectual and emotional spheres are easily disturbed by the least slight, and this leads a more serious state of alienation and depression.

Staphy is very sensitive and is listed under 'ailments from reproach', the effect of reproach is to scatter Staphies composure (vata), and aggravate pitta. There can be outbursts of anger but more often than not thier anger is suppressed and sometimes comes out as physical pitta aliments such as colic, or cystitis with burning in the urethra. The effect of the remedy is to reduce aggravated pitta, so I not sure if I quite agree with Bhattacharya's evaluation in this instance.

The two examples highlight how one incident, which may initially affect only one dosha, is quickly transmitted to the other doshas. This is especially true of disturbances of Vata, the light and mobile wind element.

Cimicifuga is another remedy from the Ranunculaceae that shows a similar pattern of vata driven pitta aggravation.
Vata: Ailments from business failure, vexation, fright. Busy. Hurry, occupation, in.
Pitta: Ailments, from love. Capriciousness. Angry. Answers, aversion to, loquacious at other times.
Kapha: Grief Suicidal, sadness from. Despair, life, of.
In Cimic, the "ailments from" rubrics show that both Vata and Pitta doshas are vulnerable. The intellectual sphere (vata) is particularly suseptible to shock and stress. As in Staphy, Pitta is increased. In Cimic, this combination of imbalances results in a mood of angry determination. This anger can turn inwards and condense into a very unhappy Kapha state.

This way of interpreting the Ranunculaceae rubrics, presupposes that the nature of Kapha is rather like a deep subconsious ocean. It seems that injuries to Kapha tend to stick and solidify; it becomes almost like an inpenetrable tar-pit. Hence, Kapha injuries become very difficult to remove, and without treatment they can exert an insidiously depressing influence on the other, lighter doshas, for a very long time.

Positive thinking is very difficult when we feel heavy and 'Yin' inside.

Homeopathy vs. Ayurveda

2010-11-19T05:43:00.000-08:00

Homeopathic Remedies in relation to the three Doshas of Ayurveda,

The table below shows some of the main characteristics of the three Doshas with examples of remedies which markedly exhibit these attributes.

rLung, (Vata) the wind element is an aspect of the breath and it is closely associated with the nervous system. Normally, vata produces enthusiasm and creativity.
Its balance is easiliy disturbed by desire and attachment. Concern with external factors, like the wind disturbing the treetops, produce excessive mental activity, which manifests itself as troubled, erratic thinking, capricious moods, excited loquacity and active dreams. This kind of stress, causes hurried, impatient, busy and often obsessional minds. As a result of being a bit impulsive and scatter-brained their finances can end up in a mess.

Elemental Properties and Modalities :
Light, mobile and quick. Coarse, rough, hard and piercing. These sensations are exemplified by the pains of arthritis. Its roughness can be seen in the hair and fingernails. It is dry and absorbant like the spongy tissues of the lungs.
We can easily find many examples of rLung symptoms which reflect these properties in the repertory and produce an analysis which gives a list the remedies of this type, (square brackets indicate B. Bhattacharya's analysis of each one).

Mind; activity; general; hyper active. impatience: impulsive.
Generalities; coldness:

hyos [V5,P5]

stram [V5,K5]

ign [V5,P5]

bell [V5,K5]

camph [V5,K5,P5]

staph [V5,k5]

op [V5,P5]

arn [V5,K5]

anac [V5,P5]

bry [V5,K5]

Tripa, (Pitta) inner heat, is associated with the endochrine system. It normally gives clarity, determination and courage. When over-stimulated it manifests as competitiveness, then other people are percieved as being in the wrong, and we often feel that we are under attack. The result is dictatorial egotism, irritability and anger. When anger is out of control it becomes hatred and violence, which are often reflected in destructive dreams of battles and fighting.

Elemental Properties and Modalities :
Hot and dry. Light and quick. It is sharp, acidic, pungent and purging. Boils, ulcers and acid indigestion are typical Tripa complaints.

Mind; anger irascibility: capriciousness:
Generalities; blood; circulation of; accelerated: heat; flushes of

nux-v [P5,K5]

cham [V5,P5]

coff [P5]

croc [V5,P5,K5]

ran-b [P5]

Ip [P5]

verat [P5]

cocc [P5]

chin [P5]

lil-t [P5]

Badkan (Kapha) is associated with fluids, especially with the blood, and it also mixes with the earth element. Its softness and smoothness give tolerance and love. Its heaviness helps us to relax, so sleep is usually deep and there can be romantic dreams.
When it is stimulated by delusions, its heavy nature gives rise to physical and emotional sluggishness, apathy and dullness. This may produce a rather boring and monotonous voice.
Opinions and relationships are formed cautiously. Opinions are then held doggedly, which gives rise to ignorance and can result in a lack of consideration for others^[6]. In financial dealings, their cautious investments can amount to miserliness, and this greed itself produces a tendency to envy.

Elemental Properties and Modalities :
The water element in the body is cool, soft, oily, sticky and slow, like mucous. Earth is dry, heavy, solid and slow, like bone. Poor circulation and congestion are typical complaints.

Mind; dullness sluggishness difficulty thinking and comprehending
Generalities; lassitude: Sleep; rise; aversion to.

puls [V5,P5]

bry [V5,K5]

con [V5,K5]

cycl [K5]

dulc [V5,K5]

arn [V5,K5]

dig [K5]

drosera [K5]

Structuralism and the Plant Kingdom Vol II : Ericales

2010-11-08T07:09:00.000-08:00

Ericales - Coldness and Aversion.

Cornaceae and Ericaceae:

There are two familiar remedies in the Cornales, both malarial. Both have heat flushes alternating with chills, C. Alerniflora has the sensation of having a "chest full of ice". The theme of coldness continues in the Ericales which are cold and often rheumatic remedies. The remedy states found in the Ericaceae are very pessimistic with loss of purpose a sense of being wounded. This might be as a result of some disaster, the delusions of shame and remorse suggest regrets which could brought on by a moral dilemma.

Primulaceae:

The theme of morality is found in the primulacea too. Cyclamen has a strong sense of being disgraced, with self-reproach, grief and inner darkness. Anagalis, another very attractive flower, is a well known remedy for gonorrhoea, which is usually associated with secrecy and sexuality. It could well be described as a "sexual" remedy, reflecting the theme of morality once more.

Theaceae:

The remedy Thea is associated with agitation, trembling and shaking, reflected on the mental level with impulsive thoughts leading to an irritable state accompanied by a feeling of loss of control. There is also malice, aversion and disgust. In contrast, some provers report a delight in witty banter. In another context, the Japanese Tea Ceremony, it is associated with quiet and sober refinement.

Japanese Green tea contains more Selenium and Chromium than black China tea, which improves its antioxidant properties. Brazil nuts (Lecythidaceae) are also a member of the ericales and a well known source of Selenium. Some of these ericaceae themes may be due to the presence of Selenium, a Stage 16 remedy; there are amorous dreams, lascivious fancies, impotence and a deficiency of ideas.

Selenium in Fruits: Banana, Breadfruit Guava, Lychee, Mango, Pomegranite. In Nuts: Amaranth Brazils Cashew Coconut

Conclusion: A proverb, "Malice drinketh its own poison".

5-Factor - Ericales [Highly negative factors depicted as low scores]

Extraversion: Not Outgoing.
Agreeableness: Antagonistic.
Conscientiousness: No trust.
Neuroticism: Sadness. Hysterical.
Openness: Hopeless. Withdrawn.

In contrast to coldness and aversion we also find cheerfulness, elation and exhilaration. In Anagalis, for example there is excitement, trembling and a state of tremulous weakness. There are abundant ideas and a sense of mental power which can become manic.

Structuralism and the Plant Kingdom Vol1: The Monocots.

2010-10-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

There is more that one way to study the phenomenon we normally think of as personality. Researchers have considered many different perspectives, usually developmental, or psychological or social. Other systems use the elements, pressure points or the pulse - think of Tibetan Medicine, T.C.M. and Ayurvedic Medicine. They all attempt to describe and measure our personal state in some way, either from physiological indicators or from the investigation of our inner feelings and our impact on the world.

Lanthanides - clinical research

2010-07-12T02:04:00.000-07:00

Homeopathy resonates with our symptom picture

Homeopathy is a gentle, holistic system of healing. Homeopathy focuses on you as an individual, concentrating on treating your specific physical and emotional symptoms. To stimulate your body's own healing process, a remedy closest to your individual symptom picture is prescribed.

Homeopathic remedies are a unique, potentised energy medicine, drawn from the plant, mineral and animal worlds. They work by resonating with your inner being and gently boost the immune system and the natural energy of the body.

The Mineral Kingdom resonates with Structure

Homeopathic remedies derived from the elements of the Periodic Table are needed when we feel something is lacking in the structure of our lives. This can become an issue when our circumstances suddenly change. Perhaps when we change our job or move house, or when someone we rely upon is no longer around. At these times of stress we often find a void open under our feet where there was once firm ground.

Final year research project - the Lanthanides

The Lanthanides Research Project is based on the work of Jan Scholten over the last decade. The emphasis of this group of "mineral" remedies is upon our inner world. The Lanthanides have been found to resonate with our sense of Self Reliance and Autonomy and improve our intuition and sensitivity to what is really essential in our own lives.

They can promote a sense of inner power which affects all aspects of our lives. This enables us to stand up for ourselves and make life-changing decisions without hesitation. We become more reflective, peaceful, calm and self-actualised.

Contact: If you live in the North West (Chester/Manchester/Mersyside) and would like to take part in this research project at reduced cost drop me a line.

Steph at herukanile@googlemail.com.
http://www.homeopathynowdatabase.co.uk.

Stage 9 Elements (Cobalt, Rhodium, Europium and Iridium)

2010-07-11T07:28:00.000-07:00

The keywords for Stage 9 are "Analysis" and "Philosophy".

In Stage 9 analyisis and philosophy are the weapons of wisdom that we choose, and they depend on our whits. We would much rather use our whits than our power to dominate others... we would rather try to earn their respect.

We explore and understand our mind in order to antidote its delusions and be free of its boundaries.

Def: Analysis is the process of breaking a complex topic or substance into smaller parts to gain a better understanding of it. The technique has been applied in the study of mathematics and logic since before Aristotle.

Def: Philosophy is the study of general and fundamental problems concerning matters such as existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. It is distinguished from other ways of addressing fundamental questions by its critical, generally systematic approach and its reliance on rational argument. The word "philosophy" comes from the Greek (philosophia), which literally means "love of wisdom".

Consider the positive aspects of the Remedies of Stage 9, which indicate a fresh, lively mind ...

Cobalt: Excitement. Exhilaration. Abundant Ideas. Rapid Thoughts.

Rhodium: Affectionate. Cheerful. Excitement. Introspection.

Europium: Understanding. Smartness.

Iridium: Affectionate. Intelligent. Mental agility. Heightened Awareness. Mystical.

What could possibly go wrong? Iridium is the most powerful remedy in this group. Lets make up the story of Iridium from the rubrics in Encyclopedia Homeopathica.

"They are Hurried and Industrious, and have a beautiful and inspirational vision of the Universe, but the mental exertion causes dullness and they start postponing everything to next day. As time goes by and stresses mount the memory becomes weaker, they make mistakes and they become intolerant and impatient. It seems as if everyone else is too slow.

Eventually mental exertion becomes too much, they experience changeable moods, anger and sadness, and want to be left alone. They reproach themselves as much as they reproach others. The beautiful vision is no more.

Finally they become discouraged, indifferent and self-absorbed. They become detatched, empty, alone and estranged from their partner. Ultimately their antagonism with themselves, their abstraction, disconnection and their confusion mount up to a sense of unreality and even depersonalisation.

Like the Nietzsharian Superman they disappear into a black cloud."

Cerium - Stage 4.

2010-07-01T07:10:00.000-07:00

An experience with Cerium Flouratum

I decided to do a small proving of a Cerium compound because I often find myself giving way too easily, which is a strong characteristic of the remedies on the Left Side of the Lanthanide and Gold series.

Right after taking the remedy the Sensation was that I didn't want anyone to come near me or touch me in any way. Like it would be a violation of my privacy. Didnt even want eye contact, not shy, more a feeling of "KEEP OFF - I don't want to share what I'm feeling with you, you wouldn't understand it anyway. I don't care for your opinion."
It was a bit like the sensation of being in a Bell Jar describe by Dr. Scholten. I could also compare it to Thuja's feeling of being fragile or made out of glass. It's a sensitive almost clairvoyant state, but I would describe it as reverse clairvoyance - reverse because its unwanted.

On the second day I the Flouratum aspects of this extra aware, sensitive state came to the fore ... it felt enlivening, a bit like Sepia . I started to enjoy it, especially with people I know. I felt more compassionate and giving.
(Themes: Transparency. Acceptance. Warmth. Sexual)

On the third day I have a feeling of not being very competant. I'm not quite as sure of myself as usual. I dont normally trust anyone's experience but now my arrogance has dissipated. I'm starting to listen to what people say and take them seriously ... its as if i'v lost my bearings and need guidance from outside. Its a worrying, scary feeling.
(Theme: Boundary, Self-doubt)

On the last day I realise that the boundary is a problem of non-communication. I normally blame myself for not elucidating my point properly, but now I blame them more for not being on the ball. It feels like I'v got something in perspective.. the balance of mis-communiction ie. your fault or my fault? Not blaming myself anymore. Calmly feel that i'm standing my ground. At the same time if realize that I'v lost my usual cynical defenses. I'm feeling rather powerless.
(Theme: Boundary. Powerlessness)

Summary
The remedy was not a great personal success. I found myself giving way more than ever! Cerium seems to have a profound lack of confidence and it seems to have a need to be left alone. Its a feeling of being delicate and fragile - not wanting to be put upon. It feels as it the Flouratum forces the emphasis towards the sexual sphere. Together Cerium + Flouratum create a feeling of being smaller (Cerium), different (Flouratum) and on the edge (Lanthanides have a feeling of being a unique individual)

Conclusions

Ultimately we create our own barriers or walls, because we want protect ourselves from change. We want a safe haven, a resting place where the currents of change can't harm us. But life is impermanant and ever-changing. In the Cerium experience my barriers seemed to fall away a little and engender a feeling of transparency.

Cerium is already known as a very withdrawn and autistic remedy. The feeling is that other people are too insensitive to be worth talking to.

To Cerium individuals it seems that you just cant win so its better to withdraw. Everyone takes on the aspect of an abusive alcoholic father.

We can go into a state rather like Cerium when we try something new - when everything seems new and unfamilar our boundaries are open, our senses are on high alert and we are flooded with impressions.

We can begin to feel quite small and insignificant.

If we dont get over this feeling Cerium will help.

Situation: Relocation. A new Job. A shy child at a new school (Cerium Phos). Cerium Phos is one of those Lanthanide combinations that produce a double impact ... In this case the impact is on boundaries.

I have also seen this lack of boundaries at festivals. There can be an initial sense of euphoria, but it can easily change.

It can also happen in spiritual communities... we loose oursleves in the ethos or the teachings.

Further Reflections - like cures like?

A remedy that is known for withdrawal and lack of confidence does not always cure a lack of confidence. Cerium is very much on the back foot - she really doesnt feel the need to overcome anything, the strategy is to withdraw, so the confidence to overcome challenges isn't the main issue at this stage.

Is the solution to go "allopathic" and give a remedy that is known for it extemes of confidence ... like Samarium, which is well know for its challenging nature? In fact, even if the subject has a challenging nature, the external challenge can be so HUGE that they can feel a lack of confidence.

The resonance of "like cures like" is in the subjects strategy towards handling the challenge. To thrive Samarium has to make the challenge ...

The essence of Samarium is:
"I feel self-confident and assertive. The sensation is that I am who I am. I WILL prevail."

The Value of Provings in our understanding of remedies and disease.

2010-06-29T05:12:00.000-07:00

...One remedy will not do for another,‭ ‬and we are always thrown back on the actual symptoms of the provings as our only sure guide‭ ‬...‭ (‬M.L.Tyler‭ ‬1952‭)(‬A‭§‬118‭)‬.

Our job is to match the symptom picture of the remedy to the patient.‭ ‬Our knowledge of the Materia Medica and the action of‭ ‬remedies can come from various‭ ‬sources.‭ ‬The main,‭ ‬and most rigorous source is from classical full provings.‭ ‬Another important source is from shared clinical experiences‭ ‬-‭ ‬cases.‭ ‬Recently‭ ‬data from dream or meditative provings have been published.‭ ‬In Dr.‭ ‬Sankaran's seminars each member of the group simply‭ ‬places the remedy under their pillow and then reports back to the group.‭ ‬Mediative provings can be as simple as just handling the substance and contemplating the thoughts and feelings that arise.‭   ‬Any sceptic could try handling a vial of Plutonium Nitricum.‭ ‬It is notorious for introducing chaos and destruction into our lives‭!‬ On the face of it these‭ ‬methods may seem unreliable or even fanciful but many key symptoms have subsequently been confirmed by full provings,‭ ‬so they too have a‭ "‬provisional‭" ‬place in our‭ ‬literature.‭

A contemporary variation on Hahnemman's original method was the proving questionnaire developed by Brian and‭ ‬Lewith.‭ ‬It comprised a selection of predefined remedy specific symptoms.‭ ‬Its purpose was to validate original provings.

Another method of evaluation of remedy data,‭ ‬which is being developed in Homeopathy is the Randomised Controlled Trial which tries to measure the effectiveness of homeopathic treatment of diseases upon trial subjects.‭   ‬Problems using the traditional scientifically accepted‭ ‬type of trials‭ ‬arise from the‭   ‬idea that homeopathy operates according to a paradigm that is different from conventional‭ ‬“allopathic‭”‬medicine which usually treats disease‭ (‬a pathogen‭) ‬as if it is an entity which must be killed or destroyed.‭

Homeopathy treats the totality of symptoms‭ ‬-‭ ‬the person not the disease.‭ ‬In both paradigms the goals are similar and the assessment of the efficacy of a medicine in both cases is evaluated by measuring the outcome as a healing response and some degree of resolution of the chief complaint.

Objectives of a Proving

A proving is the traditional method for evaluating the medical properties of a substance.‭ ‬The proving trial initially focuses on the question of whether the homeopathic remedy has any effect of any sort‭; ‬it is a question directed at the thesis that there may not be anything substantial,‭ ‬or‭ ‬“real,‭”‬ in homeopathic remedies in the first place.‭

The first proving was conducted in‭ ‬1790‭ ‬by Hahnemann on Cinchona bark because some of the symptoms sounded similar to‭ ‬malaria.‭ ‬The only way to ascertain the validity of‭ ‬this was by direct experience,‭ ‬which means to ingest the substance and record the subsequent symptoms.‭ ‬Provings do not usually go as far as producing serious physical pathology‭ ‬-‭ ‬although many stalwart Homeopaths have done this E.g.‭ ‬Herings poisoning from the Bushmaster‭ (‬Lachesis‭)‬.

Suitable subjects‭ (‬A‭§‬126‭)

During the proving process,‭ ‬Hahnemann administered remedies to healthy volunteers.‭ ‬His rationale was that a substance that produces symptoms in healthy subject can be used to help the sick(A‭§‬108‭)‬.‭ ‬The healthy volunteers should include sensitive trained observers,‭ ‬because as Hahnemann says in the organon,‭ ‬they will provide the largest amount of‭ ‬symptoms.‭ ‬Sherr's MOPMEC scale can be used to measure both health and sensitivity.‭ ‬Should we include less healthy subjects‭? ‬These can provide us with valuable curative results but are less useful in determining the pure action of the substance‭ (‬A‭§‬107‭) ‬.‭ ‬As long as the limitations and parameters are known,‭ ‬variety is acceptable in a proving‭ (‬authors‭ ‬supposition‭!)‬.‭ ‬The proving would yield some symptoms common to the group.‭ ‬These would be the‭ "‬common ground‭" ‬of the substance.‭ ‬Then there would be the idiosyncratic,‭ ‬odd and curious symptoms‭ ‬-‭ ‬perhaps some of these make up the modalities and S.R.P.s of the substance(A‭§‬117‭)‬.‭

A Standardised Methodology

Preparation,‭ ‬Hahnemann says you have to be objective and become the unprejudiced observer:‭ ‬Aphorisms‭ §‬105‭ ‬and‭ §‬145‭ (‬double-blind‭)‬.‭ ‬Traditionally we do not give either supervisors or provers a preconceived idea about the remedy.‭ ‬We don't go into the proving looking for things‭ ‬-‭ ‬it is treated as a‭ "‬tabla-rasa‭" (‬clear slate‭)‬.‭ ‬That is also the approach in drug trials‭ ‬-‭ ‬anything else in considered to be unscientific.‭ ‬Some rigorous provings use a placebo control group.

‭ ‬The roles of the group and protocols are established.‭   ‬We always use a pure substance.‭ ‬If we mix two substances no one will know which substance produced which symptom.‭   ‬A highly reactive mixture of Potassium and Iodine‭ (!) ‬is not the same as the compound Kali Iodatum.‭

The remedy must be potentised and triturated‭ (‬A‭§‬123‭)‬.‭ ‬In the case of a liquid the substance is diluted by one drop to one hundred.‭ ‬Alcohol is sometimes used as it has preservative qualities.‭ ‬So to make a‭ ‬3C potency add one drop to‭ ‬100ml,‭ ‬one drop is taken from this‭ ‬100ml solution and added to the next‭ ‬100ml.‭ ‬You then succuss by banging the test tube on your Bible‭ (‬x10‭)‬.‭ ‬Repeat once more to get‭ ‬3C.‭ ‬If the substance is a solid it is usually crushed up‭ ‬with sac-lac using mortar and‭ ‬pestle.‭ ‬The dilution can be done by weighing out one gram and adding it too‭ ‬100g.‭

Proving‭ ‬-‭ ‬Provers take the remedy‭ ‬until symptoms are experienced‭ (‬A‭§‬131‭)‬.‭ ‬Usually one or two doses will suffice to challenge the Vital Force.‭ ‬Prover and supervisor then maintain daily contact and both take notes.‭ ‬Daily contact enables us to differentiate primary and secondary action.‭ ‬Many authors insist that the secondary action‭ ‬produces important symptoms toward the end of the proving‭ (‬De Shepper‭)‬,‭ ‬this may be because‭ ‬some substances have a longer cycle‭ ‬-‭ ‬compare Aconite and Causticum.

Extraction‭ ‬-‭ ‬Groups go through notes to extract valid mental,‭ ‬emotional and physical symptoms.‭ ‬The group meets to discuss their experiences.‭ ‬What needs to be noted‭ (‬after Boger-Boeninghausen‭) ‬is the location,‭ ‬direction,‭ ‬speed,‭ ‬time and intensity of each symptom.‭ ‬Next modalities,‭ ‬concomitants and periodicity.‭ ‬These are collated to determine the characteristics on the basis of symptom totality.‭ ‬Then we highlight the keynotes and ideally‭ ‬describe the whole as a sequential development in time.‭

Repertorisation‭ ‬-‭ ‬Symptoms are graded according to their spread through the group.‭ ‬I believe‭ ‬Grade‭ ‬1‭ ‬means‭ ‬everyone experienced it,‭ ‬although Vithoulkas says Grade‭ ‬1‭ ‬is for cured symptoms‭ (‬which is indeed the case for qualification as Genus Epidemicus‭)‬.‭

Repertory submissions are collated and organised by chapter.‭ ‬Large common rubrics need qualifying to give precision‭ ‬-‭ ‬but if they are over-qualified there is a danger that the repertory will be filled with too many highly specific symptoms with only one remedy indicated,‭ ‬as happened with the Falcon proving.‭

The modern repertories of‭ ‬Sholten,‭ ‬Mirilli and Zandervoort‭ ‬include‭ ‬information which groups symptoms with remedies conceptually‭ (‬Periodically/Phylogenetically‭) ‬or thematically.‭ ‬Conceptual grouping gives these repertories an underlying structure by associating symptoms to their roots or origin e.g.‭ ‬Kingdom,‭ ‬Family,‭ ‬Species or Periodic hierarchy.‭ ‬Mirilli's thematic grouping associates remedies linguistically,‭ ‬which gives us an additional level of overlying structure.‭ ‬Jose says,‭ "‬symptoms are severed by being classified alphabetically‭"‬.‭ ‬Theoretically crossing rubrics from different sections should bring the picture back together again as a whole,‭ ‬but ultimately interpretation still relies on the user.

Publication‭ ‬-The substance is described in detail to give Homeopaths some idea of its Doctrine of Signatures,‭ ‬e.g.‭ ‬physical properties and raw toxological virulence‭ (‬taking‭ ‬30c of Plutonium is not the same as taking‭ ‬30c of gently acting remedies like Saffron‭ (‬Colchicum‭) ‬.‭ ‬There is also a chapter on Materia Medica which gives an account of the actual experiences‭ ‬-‭ ‬it is coded so that we can tell which prover developed the symptom and when.

Self-Reflection and‭ ‬Discussion‭ ‬-‭ ‬Problems of Affinity and Polarity.

Homeopathy already recognises that people and symptoms are unique.‭ ‬A wide range of experiences‭ ‬can be a good thing if our main object is to get a vision of the widest and deepest range of symptoms a substance can produce.‭ ‬Normally this is what we want from a proving.

Perhaps what we really need is a group of subjects who's suitability is defined by their probable affinity for the substance under consideration.‭ ‬How would we set that one up‭? ‬Perhaps a preliminary test could be carried out on the substance by an experienced Homeopath who would be able to give some preliminary guidelines about the nature of the beast.‭ ‬Or,‭ ‬maybe we could predict some of its expected parameters using the doctrine of signatures combined with our understanding of the Families or Stages‭? ‬Assume we have done some assessment of this nature and we are satisfied that we have at‭ ‬least some understanding of the substance.‭ ‬Next we match our subjects to these parameters.‭ ‬Easy-peasy.

Lets take an substance that isn't so well known,‭ ‬say Lutetium‭ (‬Stg‭ ‬17‭) ‬as a hypothetical example.‭ ‬To determine its clinical benefit we need a subject who would be likely to respond to it favourably‭ ‬...‭ ‬that's someone diagnosed with‭ "‬Stg‭ ‬17‭ ‬Syndrome‭"‬,‭ ‬for the arguments sake,‭ ‬say the profile fits a subject who's lost or abandoned their sense of inner power and feels resigned to taking an early retirement.

This subjects experiences would absolutely resonate with the substance and give us the depth of information that would be clinically useful.‭ ‬We would learn more about‭ "‬Stg‭ ‬17‭ ‬Syndrome‭" ‬and about the substance.‭ ‬We would be able to think about a Genus Epidemicus qualification for Lutetium‭ ‬-‭ ‬perhaps at level‭ ‬4‭ ‬-‭ ‬curative in at least one case.‭ ‬A good starting point for further investigation.

Polarity of Substance and Symptom

Now lets give Lutetium to another prover‭; ‬someone at the peak of their career‭ ‬-‭ ‬perhaps our‭ (‬Aurum‭) ‬College Director‭! ‬What are they likely to report‭? ‬Perhaps dreams of giving up their job and flying away,‭ ‬or perhaps a feeling that their work is done on this Eartly plane‭?

The question then comes,‭ ‬is that a characteristic of Lutetium‭? ‬It makes you want to escape into retirement‭? ‬Well the fact that we know it was our Director gives us a frame of reference from which we can evaluate the response.‭ ‬Logically you could say that if your are at the peak of your career you could experience indifference to work on taking‭ ‬Lutetium.‭ ‬So you want to submit the rubric...

‭"‬Indifference,‭ ‬business to‭"

Wait a mo‭' ‬...‭ ‬consider the first subject with‭ "‬Stg‭ ‬17‭ ‬Syndrome‭" ‬who was about to take early retirement‭ ‬...‭ ‬would they report a change of heart‭? ‬So much so that their experience was summed up by the rubric...

‭"‬Enthusiasm,‭ ‬business for‭"

Which rubric would you submit‭?

What we are looking at are the so-called‭ ‬POLARITIES of Lutetium.‭ ‬It is the lower extreme of the polarity that was curative.‭ ‬The higher polarity was damaging‭ (‬at least to our Director‭)‬.

Perhaps,‭ ‬at the very least,‭ ‬we should annotate the rubric to signify the polarities as either high or low...‭ ‬but you have to know the prover to do that.‭ ‬If our Director joins in the proving anonymously the frame of reference is gone and the both rubrics get published.

Then we study the rubrics and then start wondering if,‭ ‬clinically it will produce indifference or enthusiasm‭!

Refs:‭
(A‭§‬105-145‭) = ‬Organon‭ ‬:‭ ‬Aphorisms from chapter IV,‭ ‬Acquiring a Knowledge of Medicine.
Vithoulkas‭ ‬-‭ ‬Science of H'pathy,‭ ‬Ch‭ ‬10.
Sholten:‭ ‬Repertory of the Elements.
Mirilli:‭ ‬Thematic Repertory.
Nile:‭ ‬Plant Kingdom Database.
Jeremy Sherr:‭ ‬http://www.hpathy.com/interviews/jeremy-sherr-1.asp
Stages to a proving:
‭ ‬http://robertfield3.wordpress.com/homeopathy-tips/homeopathy-tips-for-70709-provings/

Insecurity and Criticism in the Stage 2 Remedies

2010-04-22T01:44:00.001-07:00

General Characteristics of Stage 2 (urgency, fear and insecurity)

The special quality of the remedies of the left hand side of the perioidic table is that they are on the road to recovery. Things, in general are improving as we move towards Stage 10.

According to Dr. Scholten the Stage 2 Group personalities are insecure and need appreciation and constant support. The struggle of Stage 2 can be seen in the Typhoid, or 'sub-acute' Miasm. They are fighting for survival; not quite as intensely as in the Acute Miasm, they know that they are not going to die if they keep fighting for their lives. I would say this is like days 2or 3 in Intensive Care, where visitors are told that the patient is 'stable'. There might be sudden setbacks, opportunitistc infections and so on, but the feeling on the ward is that the patient is out of immediate danger. The best illustrative example of the Typhoid miasm I can think of is not a mineral. In Nux vomica the patient is restless and agitated (delusions - dying, he is) and wants a safe place to rest. He will discharge himself from hospital because he feels safer at home.

The urgency and fear are the same - regardless of the particular ailment.

In the minerals the depth of urgency and insecurity can be seen in the degree of outer threat that can be perceived in the rubrics. In Beryllium they fear abandonment. In Calc met, they dream of unsuccessful efforts and there are fears of impending disease, falling and losing. This is is a precarious position - far from feeling comfortable and stable! In Strontium the feeling is that people are criminals and out to get them. In Lanthanum and Baryata the feeling is that they might even be murdered.

Stage 2 patients will flourish when they feel supported. Their well know aversion to being watched comes from a fear of criticism, which is like poison to them. It threatens everything they do and evokes the sensation of instability and insecurity. The only answer is to become conscientious ... they are hyperchondriacs and perfectionists.

Characteristics of individual remedies (insecurity and criticism)

The general themes of the typhoid miasm seem to manifest as insecurity in the minerals. It causes a fear of criticism in this group because their self-esteem is fragile and precarious. Rejection feels like falling. These are some of the remedies I would consider for panic attacks.

In the Carbon Series (Beryllium) insecurity destroys their identity, which depends on feelings of self-worth, the feeling is that "I am worthless".

CONFIDENCE - want of self-confidence - support; desires
DELUSIONS - meaningless; everything is
FEAR - failure, of/SENSITIVE - criticism; to
FEAR - of each operation; of death.

In the Silica Series (Magnesium) it destroys their relationships at home. The feeling would be expressed as "I am unwanted", which of course piles on the sense of insecurity.

FORSAKEN feeling
RESTLESSNESS - driving out of bed.
FEAR of disease

In the Ferrum Series (Calcium) it destroys their ability to contribute anything. The feeling might be "I can't do anything right". The opponent of fear is security, which the Calcs appreciate very much!

ANXIETY - anticipation; from
CONSCIENTIOUS about trifles
FEAR - poverty, of

In the Silver Series (Strontium) it destroys their ability to think and create. There is more self-esteem and more anger - as in Nux-v. It could feel as if "My ideas are ignored and have no value".

HAUGHTY/SENSITIVE - criticism; to
FEAR - high places, of.
DELUSIONS - criminals, about

The nearest remedy in the Lanthanide Series is Lanthanum (Stage 3). They don't want to be dominated and Criticism destroys their will and their ability to stand up for their inner beliefs. It could feel like "My beliefs are insignificant".

HAUGHTY/DELUSIONS - alone, being
OFFENDED, easily
FEAR - murdered, of being

In the Gold Series (Barium) it destroys their ability to take responsibility.

HAUGHTY/DELUSIONS - alone, being
FEAR - murdered, of being

Just follow the themes with a light mind ... I hope they come back to you when you are working on a case :)

Commelinids:Liliales

2010-02-13T07:40:00.001-08:00

Themes from the Synonym database: Lil-t: Arrogance. Sars: Capricious. Colch: Identity. Paris: Apprehensive.
The Liliales can be taciturn, or sexual, vain, hysterical, alcoholic, and often foolish. Pervading rubrics: Dull. Morose. Angry. Intolerant of contradiction Excitable. Loquacious. Shrieking. Hysterical! Haughty. Censorious and critical. Lascivious.
family Alstroemeriaceae
family Campynemataceae
family Colchicaceae	spp. Disporum, Ornithoglossum, Uvularia, Colch. Colchicum (Meadow Saffron) Colchicum grows in moist conditions, in meadows and woods. The patient needs liquids to prevent gout, etc. Farrington: Affects the nerves, in typhoid conditions and debility, e.g. after missing sleep, there is great tiredness, no appetite, and a bad taste in the mouth. Compare with Nux-v. In typhoid the intellect is clouded. The face is cadaverous. The cold sweat on the forehead is similar to Veratrum. The tongue is heavy and stiff. There is almost complete loss of speech, and the breath is cold. The body is hot, the extremities cold. There is restlessness, retching and vomiting. The state is very sensitive, she feel unprotected (Naked Ladies). Rudenes is the worst thing, it drives her wild! She does not forgive you. Ailments from: Disappointment, bad news, emotions, grief, rudeness. Contradiction, intolerant of. Taciturn. Rage. Sensitive - to all external impressions. Excitement - nervous. Exhilaration. Laughing - sardonic. Colchicum children get upset by injustice. A patient saw her friend cheating at school, she was so upset she couldn't finish her own test. Indignation - at misdeeds of others. Weeping. Reading - understand, does not. Writing - inability, for. Speech - finish sentence, cannot. Thoughts - disconnected. Logical thinking becomes difficult when she looses her ability to focus her perception. She will jump from point to point during the consultation. It can be quite difficult to get the story into anything like a logical sequence (the very opposite of the structured story given by a "mineral" patient). Feels mind is a jig-saw, the peices are there but not all together. Confounding objects and ideas. Answering - does not answer when questioned. The gout makes her irritable and bad tempered. Despair - pains, with the. Discouraged - pain from. Contraction of muscles and tendons. Cramps. Rheumatic pains. Therapeutics: Prostration, Coldness, Gout (affects muscular tissues, periosteum, and synovial membranes). Dysentry. Sensation: pains like electric shocks or like a needle. Miasm:Syphilitic or Malarial. Similars: Ant-c CALC carb-v Merc. All share : anxiety and depression. They are taciturn and tearful.
Corsiaceae	Corsia spp.
Convallariceae	spp. Alium Anthericum, Asparagus, Astelia, Helonais (Devils bit), Colchicum (Meadow saffron), Ornithogalum (Star of Bethlehem) Rx: Verat(?), Par, Colch, Helon, Lil-t, Sabad, Agra, Orni, Aloe Rajans Family Sensations as if: Squeezing out - like tootpaste Theme: Neglected. Convallaria (Lily of the Valley) Boericke It affects the female genitals and the heart, and produces lassitude, relaxation and chilliness. Proving: She feels as if she must protect her heart from painful emotions. As she ages she become more and more distant, until the colour of life fades away. Rubrics: Dull, can hardly think. > Depression. Grieves very easily. Sensations: As if the heart stops and starts.
Liliaceae	Lilium Tigrinum (Tiger Lily) Prooving: A sense as if "she were going to be crazy, if she did not hang on to herself, and hold tight. Profound mental depression; to the prover "the heavens seemed brass and the earth iron;" an apprehension of moral obliquity weighed grievously upon her, for about ten days after the sexual excitement, and continuing in alternation with the sexual excitement for more than four months after the proving. Worse on going to bed; can't go to sleep; wild feeling in the head as though i should go crazy and no one would take care of me; thoughts of suicide; how much Opium would put me to sleep forever, and who would find my body, and who would care; a new train of thought for her. While attending a lecture, desire to hit the lecturer, and in the evening desirous of swearing and damning the fire and things generally, and to think and speak obscene things; disposed to strike and hit persons; as these feelings came, the uterine pains passed away It is a glamourous flower, and the woman can be passionate and beautiful. She has a strong sense of her own importance. Her personality can be haughty and domineering, her presence makes others cower. She has mood swings and is impatient and easily provoked; she is oversensitive. Once she takes offence she can be quite nasty - you might get a slap! Busy, fruitless > Amusement, averse to. > Business, averse to. > Aversion, (to being approached). Everything is pressurised and hurried, so she cannot tolerate dithering. They can get flustered by a 'wild' feeling when thoughts come all at once, its just like trying to spin too many plates at once. It may bring on a headache. Haughty > Snappish >Throws, things, persons at. > Tears her hair > Head Pain, blinding. Flow of the process: Thoughts Rush > Wild feelings > Confusion > Hysteria. Lil-t imagines she is attractive, but flirtation is restrained by religion or just keeping busy (the theme of pennance has been recorded). They can be Evangalists, or join the Sally Army. They may find the bands and the uniforms exciting! The sexual feeling come from a hormonal imbalance ... not from emotional desire. Fancies, lascivious. > Despair, religious, alternating with sexual excitement. > Self, torture. Lil-t. Sensations: Throbbing. Cramping. Pressing. Dragging down. Therapeutics: Menopause. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Antiversion of Uterus. Miasm : Sycotic (Compare with Medorrhinum) Similars: pall Plat. Iod shares irritability, depression, constriction of the heart, heat and a liking for cold air.
family Aloaceae	Aloe (Aloe vera) Adapted to sedentary, "weary" persons; averse to either mental or physical labor. If he sits he deliberates about standing up. Lassitude alternates with mental activity, depending on his digestion. The state is changable, hypochondriacal, from contentment to discontent, with a repulsive, anthrophobic mood. The misery is out of proportion to the complaint! Kent: Hates people, repels everyone. > Restrains himself from voilence Kent: Life is a burden. > Death, thoughts of. > Death, presentiment, predicts the time. Hatred, revenge, and. > Contemptuous. > Contradiction, is intolerant of. > Cursing, swearing. Timidity > Fear, people, of. Thoughts, intrude, sexual. > Lascivious, (lustful). She can become self-absored when she feels insecure, and fearful of failure. Sensation: Heaviness (Digestion, Colon). Theme: Security and Belonging. Miasm: Leprosy Similars: Aloe vs. Am-m Both suffer irritability and a sense of heaviness and flatulence - worse for sitting around!
family Trillaceae	Inset: Trillium erectum Trillium pendulum Confusion of mind - idenity, sense of duality. Sadness. Irritability. Taciturn. Anger. Anxiety. Anguish. Fear of impending disease and of death. Therapeutics: Hemorrhage. Nosebleed. Bloody expectoration. Leukorrhea bloody or offensive. Metorrhagia, bright red. Sensations: Falling apart, as if broken (bandaging amel). Paris Quadrifolia (Trillaceae) Herb Paris lives on calcerious soils in damp and shady woods. The rubrics conjour up the image of someone not quite with it (in a social sense). An only child (Calc.) who talks to himself all the time. He may even imagine he has friends to play with in his imaginary world. Because his social development is poor he becomes a shy and indaquate teenager, who's antics and clowning give everyone the impression of some kind of fool. His behaviour becomes quite tiresome to his friends. Egotism, speaking always about themselves Delusions, person, two personalities opposing. > Thoughts, two trains of thought Delusions, strange land as if in a. > Delusions, home, away from, is. Loquacity, foolish. > Haughty > Rudeness. > Mocking. The remedy may help him to be more aware of how others feel. Similars: arg-n nat-c Merc CALC PHOS Shared Sx: Taciturn. Vexation. Hysteria. Frightened. Desires company. Despair. Foolish. Alcohol.
family Smilacaceae	spp. sars. smilax (pic). Rx: Sars, Smilin. Top (core) Smilacaceae Rubrics ... Anger, former vexations Sarsaparilla Summary of the Proving: Inactive, languid, indisposed to work, awkward. Dull and muddled in the head, all the forenoon, in the afternoon peevish and ill-humored. Sullen. Readily insulted by a word. Very much vexed and cannot forget vexatious matters. The soul is extraordinarily affected by the pains, the spirit is oppressed, the mind troubled; he feels unhappy and groans involuntarily. Disgusted with everything, she has no pleasure in anything. Rubrics: Mood alternating, changeable. (Morose fly on the wall, by) Aversion to everything. (Conversation agg.) Doubt of recovery or Fear of not recovering. Delusions, dead persons sees. Spectres, ghosts sees. Miasm: Syphilis or Ringworm.
family Luzuriagaceae Spp?
family Melanthiaceae	spp. Helonias, Melanthium, Aletris, Trillium, Veratrum (pic) Rx: Verat, Sabad,Verat-v, Helon, Xero, Alet, Polygo-o. N.B. the Cronquist system places the Melanthiaceae in the Sapindales! Top (core) Melanthiaceae Rubrics ... Unconsiousness (coma stupor) Morose Restlessness Sadness Answers, refuses Aletris (Colicroot) Boericke Rubrics: Concentration difficult. Discontented, Sulky. Therapeutics: Debility with scanty menses. Sensation: Heaviness (uterus). Veratrum Album (Hellebore) Farrington: Used for cholera since Hahnemans time. It seems to act prominently on the abdominal organs, probably through the splanchnic nerves. When these nerves are paralyzed the blood-vessels becomes over-charged with blood and pour forth their serum. The prostration the coldness and the terrible sinking sensation that belong to Veratrum all start from these nerves. It is indicated in delerium when there is restlessness, with desire to cut and tear the clothing, with loquacity and rapid, earnest, loud talking; he strikes those about him; anxiety; frightened at imaginary things; lasciviousness; lewdness in talk; he springs out of bed and rushes about the rooms if thereby to obtain relief. Verat is distinguished from Bell and Stram by coldness, esp. cold sweat on the forehead. Image: We can visualize Veratrum as someone attractive who has grown up with every comfort of privilege (Comtempuous: "Dont contradict me! I'm never wrong"), who realizes she isn't really wanted anymore. She loves routine and fears loss of wealth and status because they make her feel that she "belongs". She would loosing everything if she was pushed away - as in a divorce. Holding on to a egotistical attitude doesn't help much! When the bubble bursts it all ends in a state of shock and depression. Verat. might fall back on a sense of Spirituality if he has the delusion that he is doing Gods will here on earth. Deep down he knows he is deluding himself to some extent ... which another source of anxiety. (Compare with Nux-v and Lyc.) Uses every possible means to reach his goal. Restless activity, works her way up Boasting: Spending money. Wishes to be considered rich Delusion, she is distinguished, a great person Delusion: religious, appointed by god Comtemptious, censorius, haughty, righteousness - hard on inferiors. Flattering, affectionate, embraces everyone - respects superiors Theme: Anxiety of being pushed away and abandoned. In Lac Caninum there is a sense of inferiority and dependence, which could manifest as the fear of being abandoned Therapeutics: Cholera and intussusception (telescoping) of the bowels, with vomiting and purging, rice-water stool, colic and cramp. Similars: Ars Carb-v Kali-c MERC PH-ac Sil Shared Sx: Foreboding. Cheerful or discoraged. Hurried Obstinate. Rage. Mania. Insanity. Alcoholism. Sabadilla Closely related to Veratrum. The state can be brought on by fright and hysteria. It may be used (like Veratrum) in cases of imaginary diseases, e.g. false pregnancy. Prooving: The mind seems overexcited, tense, the disposition however is little sensitive, cold; but after several days the understanding is decidedly depressed; he can with difficulty comprehend many things, thinks slowly; the disposition, however, is more easily excited, everything deeply affects him. Strange thougths, confusion of identity, (Thuj) mixed with revulsion of ones body or sensations of deformity, especially shrinking or enlargement. Prooving: He imagines all sorts of strange things about his own body, for instance, that it had shrunk like that of dead persons, that his stomach was corroded, that the scrotum was swollen, etc.; he knows that all this is fanciful; he continues to imagine it, The sensation of enlargement can be experienced mentally as a belief that he is appointed (or deserted) by God. Rubrics : Gloomy mood, as if he were the greatest criminal. > Vexed at every trifle. Insensible to sexual excitement; he is even nauseated by amorous caresses Delusions, separated, thoughts are. > soul, body was too small for or separate. > Delusions, thoughts being outside of body. Fear, death, of. > Religious, (affections). > Has deserted the true faith > Has broken his vows Fancies, exaltation of, sleeplessness, with. Haughty > Unfeeling, hardhearted. > Vehement. Vivacious > Passionate Generals: Periodicity, 4th day. > 7th day. Dreams: Busy. Amorous. Anxious (business) Female/Male: Sexual aversion- > desire-increased. Sensations: Separated (from goodness). Enlargement vs. Shrinking. Beating dull stitches in several parts of the body, almost like pressure, and sometimes pinching, intermitting several times. Therapeutics: Hayfever with violent spasmodic sneezing and lachrymation. Miasm : Sycotic and Syphilitic. Similars: CALC PHOS merc. Shared traits: Anger, fear, sexuality, guilt, confusion, obscessions, hallucinations and alcoholism. Veratrum viride Farrington: Veratrum viride produces congestions of the base of the brain and of the upper portion of the spinal cord. It this interferes with the function of the pneumogastric nerves. At first it seems to produce engorgement of the lungs, just such as we witness in the beginning of the pneumonia. We have dizziness and faintness on attempting to sit up, nausea, cold sweat and orthopnoea (has to sleep propped up - a symptom of heart failure), and in fact every symptom of paralysis of the heart from over-exertion of that organ. Thus you will see that Veratrum viride comes in as an invaluable remedy in those violent congestions which precede pneumonia. It may even abort the whole disease. Similars : Hydr-ac Helonias Diociac (Devils bit) Boericke Very worn out but unable to sleep. Restless, moving about amel. Will keep busy to get through the tiredness. Which means she won't stop, even when told that she is wearing herself out. Prooving: Prior to taking the remedy I never felt better; soon after taking there was an entire change in the surrounding circumstances; I very soon became irritable, gloomy, and dull; could not endure the least contradiction or receive any suggestions in regard to any subject; all conversation was unpleasant, and what I most desired was to be left alone, reserving to myself the privilege of finding fault with everything around me; Rubrics: Ailments, from joy, excessive. > "Ennervated by indolence and Luxury" Restlessness, women, in. > Industrious, mania for work. Censorious, (critical). > "Suggestion will not receive" Sadness, company aversion desire for solitude. Sexual desire-diminished. Therapeutics: Conscious of womb, (prolapse). Backache, dragging in pelvis. Repeated miscarriage. Sensations: Dragging downwards. Compare: Sepia. Miasm: Sycosis

Commelinids:Asparagales

2010-02-13T05:52:00.001-08:00

Themes from the Synonym database: Iris and Vanil, Cheerful, Amative. Croc: Religious. Look out for Dr.Sankarans Liliflorae Themes: Forced out. Squeezed. Oppressed, constrained. Constricted. Excluded. They hold on -> attractive behaviour to be included.
family Alliaceae	Rx: All-c, All-s, All-u. Now Includes the Amaryllidaceae, (spp. Amaryllis, Galanthus: Snowdrop, Narcissus, Leucojum.) Family sensation: Sinking Top (core) Alliaceae Rubrics ... Anxiety Sadness Fear Allium cepa (Onion) Therapeutics: Excoriating coryza. Acute hay fever. Allium Sativum (Garlic) Boericke A feeling of restlessness with impatience, worse when alone. Fear, alone, of being. Weeping in sleep. Fear, death, of. Menorrhagia. > Menses, acrid, excoriating. Urethra:Pain, burning. > Urine: Albuminous or Dark. Eye: Agglutinated > Nose: Coryza > Larynx: Scraping Therapeutics: Affinity for mucous membranes. Sensations of :Ailments: gluttony! Incarcerated flatus. Distension.
family Asparagaceae	e.g. Aparagus. Agavaceaea (e.g. yucca), Hyacynthaceae sometimes included. Asparagus Aspargus contains anti-oxidnants, chromium and nickel. Prooving: A peculiar anxiety, with palpitation of the heart, and ill-humor. Rubrics: Anxiety.> Irritability. Restlessness. Morose.> Carried, desires to be. Excitement. > Cheerful. Hydrophobia. Sleepiness Cutting and burning in urethra. Miasm: Sycotic. Similars: Ferr ph-c pic-ac. Shared Sx: Sycosis. Weakness and heaviness. Taciturn averse to company. Sexuality. Hyancinthoides non-script (Agra or Scilla nutans - Bluebell) It relaxes the whole system. Chill from exposure to cold winds. Sleeplessness Therapeutics: Catarrh. Yucca Thoughts, wandering. > Fancies, lascivious. Mood, changeable, variable. > Irritability. Therapeutics: Pain in the liver. Gonorrhoea: Erythematous redness of the genitals.
family Iridaceae	spp. Crocus etc, Rx: Croc. Iris-t, Home, Iris-fa. Top (core) Iridaceae Rubrics ... Mania Morose (peevish) Anger (easily) Crocus Sativus (Saffron) Boericke A capricious and impressionable state. A very sensitive person. They are sexually attractive, exhuberant and extravegant. She loves music and laughter. Intense affection which doesn't last. The excitement transforms into vexation and hysteria. Impressionable. Sensitive. Ailments, from joy, excessive. Ailments from abuse, reproaches, emotions, anger. Anger, alternating with repentance quick > Anger, trifles. Contemptuous. Hardhearted. Sympathetic. Offended easily. Dreams: The dead. Fire. Misfortune. Striving. Extremities, numbness. Pain: paralytic, aching, burrowing, tearing. She can be a bit spaced out, and confuses past and present. The dreams are anxious, full of striving. Her Ladyship may have difficulties of a financial nature! Theme: Rapid change. Neglect vs. Belonging. Therapeutics: Metrorrhagia. Asthma. Rheumatism. Miasm: Sycotic. Iris Versicolor (Blue flag) She is very similar to Crocus, but this a deeper state - the dreams are much more vexatious and frightening. An aristocratic and showy flower, which reflects in the patients dress sense. Moods alternate from dipleasure and irritability to livliness (parties, joking, laughing). They care for others, but keep thier existential maliase to themselves. They feel that life is useless. They are afraid of growing old and death (dreams of digging, graves and autopsies) ... the Greek goddess Iris leads the souls of dead women and lays Irises on their graves. (Joy Lucas) Nervous fretfulness. Irritable. > Suicidal, thoughts. Censorious. Anger, easily. Discouraged. Sadness. Company, aversion to. Laughing. Amourous. Dreams: The dead. Graves. Fire. Fights. Amorous. Affinities: Liver. Thyroid. Burning (GI tract). Therapeutics:Headache or periodic Migrane with blurred vision. Vomits bile. Sciatica. Rheumatism. Sensations: As in Crocus there are stitching, tearing and shootings pains. Miasm: Syphilis or Malaria.
family Orchidaceae	e.g. Vanilla. Rx:[Vanil. Cypr. Spira. Corh.] Top (core) Orchidaceae Rubrics ... Hysteria Ennui or Ecstacy Spiranthes (Ladies tresses) Complaining mood with melancholy thoughts. Affinity: Eyes, liver, kidneys. Anxiety of conscience. Complaining. Ennui. Sadness, Weeping. Hysteria. Sexual desire increased or wanting. Dreams, amorous. Delusions, brain seems to wobble. Vertigo. Male, coition averse to. Sexual desire wanting or increased. Leucorrhoea. Dryness. Itching. Sensations: Heaviness. Pressing. Cypripedium (Ladies slipper) Restlessness and irritablity (hysteria) then debility and profound indifference. Amenorrhoea. Corallorhiza (Crawley root) Restless fever. Dipodium puncatum (Hyacinth Orchid) Rubrics: Generals - weakness. Sleeplessness. Vanilla aromatica Vanilla spp. are climbing vines. Vanilla is known as an aphrodisiac. Material Perfection, like the Steptford Wives, bland, normal, but sensual. MaleFemale genitalia - sexual desire increased ()or decreased). Mind - mental power increased. Therapeutics: Anemia.
family Ixioliriaceae	spp. Ixiolirion. (formerly Amaryllidaceae).
family Blandfordiaceae	spp. Blandfordia.
family Asteliaceae	spp. Astelia.

Fear of being observed and R.E.B.T.

2010-01-13T08:07:00.001-08:00

The AWFUL fear is that you have to get it right or you will be laughed at.

“It becomes A very harmful, irrational belief, which takes a small fault to the extreme of terror” (Albert Ellis).

What’s the terrifying outcome we are so frightened of? A Further loss of self-esteem.
Rationally speaking we have to accept that there is no cosmic law that says we will always get it right. We have to be able to accept defeats without going to irrational extremes such as self-depreciation.

The main Rubrics having this fear (Periodic Table only):

Fear - observed; of her condition being ... CALC germ
Fear - opinion of others ... Ars aur-m bar-c bar-s calc Germ
Delusions - watched, she is being ... ARS Bar-c Calc Kali-br
Delusions - criticized, she is ... Bar-c calc germ nat-m pall plb positr rad-br
Delusions - laughed at and mocked ... adam BAR-c germ ph-ac
Sensitive - criticism to ... alum-sil am-c aur/m/s bar-c calc merc nat-m positr

Summary:
       Left Siders -> Positron Nat-m Bar-c Kali-br Calc alumina
       Right Siders -> adam aurum pall merc am-c germ ph-ac ars

We can see that the fear of being observed exists on both sides of the Periodic Table - it is there on the left side, in people who feel there is something wrong within and on the right side, in people who feel there is something wrong with the world.

It is present in every stage so why is there such a spread? Well, we are all subject to disapproval from some quarter - as Dylan said, "Everyone must get stoned". Is insult felt more acutely by one group more than the other? No, but in the left side our structure is not so firm and we easily collapse and then withdraw into ourselves.   On the right side we can also withdraw, but the fault is out there - its not us that's at fault. Right-siders can collapse even further to the right but there is aggression and resentment.

In the left-siders there is self-depreciation which engenders a sense of damaged self-hood. There is a belief that there is something wrong with ourselves. This is the core belief that connects all the left-siders. All these remedies help us realise that making a mistake it isn't all that AWFUL.

This is the central delusion - the self-defeating belief and the source of the mental habits that paralyse us.

Nosodes

2010-01-13T02:37:00.000-08:00

Nosodes in the context of Integral Psychology

The rubrics of the three original maisms have been placed in the context of chakras or levels of awareness as described by Integral Psychology (Judith, Wilber). The interpretation of rubrics and their placement within these levels is based on my understanding of the Psychological significance of each rubric.

PSORINUM: RUBRICS RANKED BY CHAKRA
[C7 WISDOM] [SELF-KNOWLEDGE] [DEMON:ATTATCHMENT] Insanity (madness). Fancies exaltation of. Despair religious of salvation. Religious (affections). Religious melancholia. Visual or Digital Auditory Themes such as Philosopy and Belief.
[C6 IMAGINATION] [SELF-REFLECTION] [DEMON:ILLUSION] Confusion calculating when. Mistakes time in. Delusions doomed being. Thoughts disagreeable. Thoughts persistent. Excitement Visual or Digital Auditory Themes; reasoning, making connections, opinions
[C5 COMMUNICATION/SOCIETY] [SELF-EXPRESSION] [DEMON:LIES] Anger. Insolence. Intolerance. Impatience. Mood repulsive. Morose (cross fretful ill-humor peevish). Fear busy streets. Visual or Auditory Themes related to communication of images, symbols, words, thoughts.
[C4 LOVE/RELATIONSHIPS] [SELF-ACCEPTANCE] [DEMON:GRIEF] Dwells on past disagreeable occurrences. Estranged from her family. Forsaken feeling. Sadness suicidal disposition with. Sentimental. Kinesthethic or Visual Themes of love and compassion. Relationship of self and other.
[C3 WILL POWER] [SELF-DEFINITION] [DEMON:SHAME] Indolence. Irresolution indecision. Dirtiness. Indifference (apathy). Confusion identify duality sense of. Remorse. Kinesthethic or Visual Themes of autonomy, a sense of self.
[C2 EMOTIONAL ISSUES] [SELF-GRATIFICATION] [DEMON:GUILT] Ailments from excitement emotional. ailments from excitement sexual. Dwells on past disagreeable occurrences. Remorse. Kinesthetic Themes such as pleasure, feelings and sensations.
[C1 SURVIVAL ISSUES] [SELF-PRESERVATION] [DEMON:FEAR] ANXIETY FEAR WITH. Anxiety future about. Anxiety business about. Anxiety closing eyes on. Anxiety hypochondriacal. Anxiety salvation about. Delusions fortune he was going to lose his. Delusions poor he is. Fear poverty;death. Anguish. Cares (worries). Kinesthetic Themes related to personal safety.

Psorinum

Kent on Psorinum

The Psorinum patient himself is one of debility. He wants to go home after a short walk. He is worse in the open air. He cannot breathe in the open air; cannot breathe while he is standing up;

The mental symptoms present some strong features. Sadness, hopelessness; he sees no light breaking through the clouds above his head; all is dark about him. He thinks his business is going to be a failure; that he is going to the poor house; that he has sinned away his day of grace. It is a fixed idea during the day and he dreams about it at night.

Overwhelming sadness; dejection; he takes no joy in his family; feels that these things are not for him. His business is prosperous, yet he feels as if he were going to the poor house. No joy or realization of benefit. Extremely irritable, wants to be alone. Does not want to be washed. Full of anxiety, even of suicide. Despair of recovery if sick.

Though there is no eruption at night he is driven to despair by the continual itching. If he throws the covers off then he becomes chilly; if he covers up then there is itching. Sensitive to cold yet the skin is worse from heat. Tingling, itching, formication, crawling like ants running over the surface, as of insects in the skin.

MEDORRHINUM RUBRICS RANKED BY CHAKRA
[C7 WISDOM] [SELF-KNOWLEDGE] [DEMON:ATTATCHMENT] Ailments from anticipation, forboding. Ailments from work mental. Concentration difficult. Delusions religious. Anxiety salvation about. Fear (apprehension dread). Clairvoyance. Hurry. Delusions time passes too slowly.
[C6 IMAGINATION] [SELF-REFLECTION] [DEMON:ILLUSION] Despair. Suicidal sadness from. Delusions doomed being. Death presentiment of. Delusions: persued; people behind him someone is.
[C5 COMMUNICATION/SOCIETY] [SELF-EXPRESSION] [DEMON:LIES] Ailments from reproaches. Contradiction is intolerant of. Sensitive (oversensitive). Forgetful, name, his own. Forgetful, words while speaking, of, word hunting.
[C4 LOVE/RELATIONSHIPS] [SELF-ACCEPTANCE] [DEMON:GRIEF] Sadness suicidal disposition with. jealousy.
[C3 WILL POWER] [SELF-DEFINITION] [DEMON:SHAME] Anxiety conscience (as if guilty of a crime). Remorse. Reproaches himself. Confusion identity as to his. Confidence want of self. Egotism, self-esteem. Selfishness egoism.
[C2 EMOTIONAL ISSUES] [SELF-GRATIFICATION] [DEMON:GUILT] Cares (worries full of). Biting nails. Conscientious about trifles. Fear, (apprehension, dread). FEAR, MISFORTUNE, OF.
[C1 SURVIVAL ISSUES] [SELF-PRESERVATION] [DEMON:FEAR] Ailments from bad news. Anxiety, anticipation; time is set if a. Fear, dark, of. Fear, death, of.

Medorrhinum

Kent: on Medorrhinum
Forgetful of facts, figures and names; of what he has read. Makes mistakes in writing, of spelling, and words. TIME MOVES TOO SLOWLY; everybody moves too slowly. He is in a constant hurry, in such a hurry that he gets out of breath. She is in such a hurry that she feels faint.

Confusion of mind, dazed; fear of sensation; loses the idea when speaking. Great difficulty in stating her symptoms, loses herself and must be asked over again. Thinks some one is behind her; hears whispering. Sees faces that peer at her from behind the furniture (PHOS.).

Everything seems unreal (ALUM.). Wild desperate feeling as if incipient insanity. Weeps when talking. Exhilaration in evening. Changeable state of mind; one moment sad, the next mirthful. Presentiment of death. Frightened sensation on waking as if something dreadful had happened. FEAR OF THE DARK. Anxiety about her salvation.

SYPHILINUM RUBRICS RANKED BY CHAKRA
[C7 WISDOM] [SELF-KNOWLEDGE] [DEMON:ATTATCHMENT] Indifference future to. Despair Disgust. Kill desire to. Fear death of. Fear insanity losing his reason of.
[C6 IMAGINATION] [SELF-REFLECTION] [DEMON:ILLUSION] Indolence. Business averse to. Calculating inability to. Thoughts disconnected. Memory weakness happened for what has.
[C5 COMMUNICATION/SOCIETY] [SELF-EXPRESSION] [DEMON:LIES] Abusive insulting. Anger (irascibility). Abusive insulting. Contradiction is intolerant of. Sympathy compassion agg. Suspicious (mistrustful) . Secretive. Liar lies never speaks truth does not know why.
[C4 LOVE/RELATIONSHIPS] [SELF-ACCEPTANCE] [DEMON:GRIEF] Company aversion to presence of others agg. Company desire for aversion to solitude Morose (cross fretful ill-humor peevish). Malicious (spiteful vindictive). Dwells on past disagreeable occurrences. Indifference loved ones to.
[C3 WILL POWER] [SELF-DEFINITION] [DEMON:SHAME] Insanity, megalomania. Squanders. Indolence. Indifference (apathy). Remorse.
[C2 EMOTIONAL ISSUES] [SELF-GRATIFICATION] [DEMON:GUILT] Erections wanting (impotency). Dwells on past disagreeable occurrences.
[C1 SURVIVAL ISSUES] [SELF-PRESERVATION] [DEMON:FEAR] Fear death of.

Syphilinum

Kent on Syphilinum
Forgetful. Weak minded. Laughing and weeping without cause. He cannot remember faces, names, dates, events, books or places. He cannot calculate. Despair of recovery Melancholia. Fears he is going insane. IMBECILITY.

Indifferent to his friends, and feels no delight in anything Dreads the night and dreads the morning, as the weakness and soreness are worse on waking. He always says he is not himself and he cannot feel like himself.

A middle-aged man who had suffered many years from latent syphilis abandoned his business and remained at home lamenting and sad His wife supported the family by keeping boarders After receiving a few doses of Syphilinum he took on new energy and became industrious and prosperous.

Structural Homeopathy and the Lanthanides

2010-01-12T01:54:00.000-08:00

Introduction to a new épistémè - New situations demand new learning.

Nowadays I'm looking at Homepathy from a post-structuralist point of view - Michel Foucault used the term épistémè to describe "the historical a priori that grounds knowledge within a particular epoch". It's wider than the idea of a paradigm, in that it includes fundamental assumptions and attitudes that are almost invisible to the people operating within its limits - a sort of 'epistemological unconscious' of an era.
Scholten, as a philosopher and scientist is introducing ideas that are, at the moment, beyond the épistémè of Classical Homeopathy. More specifically, the main difference is that his approach is nomothetic, that is, he identifies, classifies and maps the universal and common characteristics shared by everyone into logical dimensions, whereas classical Homeopathy is strongly ideographic, focusing entirely on the unique aspects of the individual, and any attempt at "chunking up" to see the big picture is still an anathema to many.

In fact each approach has its own advantages, which becomes clear when we compare the overlap and variation within the DSM categoires with the "Big Five" (Costa & McCrea, 2007), a statistical model of personality derived from factor analysis. The synonym clusters (of symptoms) used in the Plants Project (this author,2008) were derived through this methodology.
Historically, Dr. Rajan Sankarn, by sheer force of logic and personality challenged this ideographic approach in the 90's and opened the way for some of us to think about the relationshps of states and remedies with a more scientific person centered approach.

Scholtens amazing work on the 'Series' of the periodic table explores the pathology and the prognosis of the more materialistic first tier vMemes, and even more significantly, his examination of the Lanthanides explores the inner spiritual development and the autonomy of the second tier. [Ref: Spiral Dynamics]

Hope you enjoy exploring this with me - and leave a few comments!
Warmly,
Steph.

*epistemology = study of the nature of knowledge.

All work

Enjoying, sharing and maintaining in Stage 11.

2009-12-12T08:06:00.000-08:00

Stage 11 - in control?

Once we reach Stage 11 we want to share the benefits of our accomplishments.   The project is complete and we prosper. You have to keep checking that its all running smoothly. They all have the feeling they are on the verge of failure.

- The Stage 11 remedy of the Ferrum (work) Series is Cuprum. All the Ferrums want to protect themselves but they are usually obliged to put up with “the rules of the game”, so their own feelings get suppressed, and they can feel guilty if their performance is sub-standard.

In Cuprum the feeling is that they can't ease up for a moment. They have to keep everything under control so they follow the rules carefully. They are always checking.   They think they are faultless, so they don't like criticism and will deal it out.

- AMBITION - increased - competitive.
- DUTY - too much sense of duty. Takes responsibility too seriously.
- DICTATORIAL. FASTIDIOUS. RITUALISTIC BEHAVIOR.
- MIND - CHANGE - aversion to. FEAR - failure, of
- HARDHEARTED. RAGE. HATRED - revengeful; hatred and.
- SUSPICIOUS. DELUSIONS - thieves - seeing.
- THOUGHTS - compelling.
- DISCOURAGED.
- MIND - FEAR - failure, of - confirmation; needs constant

- The Stage 11 remedy of the Silver Series (intellect) is Argentum.   In this series the focus is on performance and perfection. They are creatively inspired and want to be special.

In Argentum they want to hold onto the success of their creativity. They are full of ideas but their fear is that it will all come crashing down. They are very social but their anxieties make them tense.

- SENSITIVE - opinion of others; DREAM of quarrels with friends;
- LOQUACIOUS. UNTRUTHFUL.
- CONSCIENTIOUS about trifles.
- MANIA - alternating with - depression.
- IDEAS - abundant. Ideas, deficiency of.
- SELF-CONTROL - loss of self-control.
- CHECKING - twice or more;
- THOUGHTS - compelling
-DISCOURAGED.
-DELUSON - fail, everything will.

- The Stage 11 remedy of the Lanthanides (inner power) is Terbium. The focus of the Lanthanides is on self-control and inner strength. Their efforts are directed toward achieving strength of mind.

In Terbium they need to keep control over themselves. They appear confident but being out of control is a serious issue, so they often get into yoga and other disciplines.

- SELF-CONTROL - radiating an aura of control.

- The Stage 11 remedy of the Gold Series (power) is Aurum. The focus of the Gold Series is responsibility. They use their power to rule – for better or for worse.

In Aurum they want to hold onto their power. They are very serious and responsible, and don't like to be accused of negligence.

- SELF-CONTROL - increased.
- THOUGHTS - compelling.
-DISCOURAGED.
-DELUSON - fail, everything will.

Keynotes on the Stage 5 Remedies.

2009-12-10T08:37:00.000-08:00

Preparation and Postponing in the Stage 5 Remedies.

Dr. Scholten describes Stage 5 as “Preparation”. The project is just starting. It looks huge. You have the planning permission, the techniques but no previous experience or structure. Its very easy to get discouraged, and postpone things - if you do you get stuck in Stage 5!

The sphere of doubt in the Ferrum Series is at work, in the Silver Series it is in creativity, in the Lanthanides it is in the outer expression of our inner power, in the Gold Series is in absolute outer power and in the Uranium Series is in intuition and wisdom.

- The Stage 5 remedy of the Ferrum Series is Vanadium. All the Ferrums want to protect themselves but they are usually obliged to put up with “the rules of the game”, so their own feelings get suppressed, and they can feel guilty if their performance is sub-standard.

In Vanadium the feeling is of doubt. They want success but feel that they might not be able to complete the project. They are tortured by their fear of failure. The result is that they become indecisive. They can loose sight of their goals and start to worry about little things.

* Ailments from domination - history of excessive parental control.
* Confidence - want of self-confidence.
* Fear, failure of.
* Irresolution.
* Yielding disposition.

- The Stage 5 remedy of the Silver Series is Niobium. In this series the focus is on performance and perfection. They are creatively inspired and want to be special.

In Niobium they doubt their creativity. They feel their ideas are special and want to strike out on their own. They set their goals high, but then the projects seems unrealistic. They are easily slighted and hurt. Their creation will never be perfect and the whole thing becomes a burden. They can get stuck on the preparations. They don't know if they can do it or not and become apathetic. They would love attention and admiration but they fear that they are not good enough.

* Fear - failure of - examinations, in.
* Dreams - mistakes, of making.
* Hurry.
* Haughty.

- The Stage 5 remedy of the Lanthanides is Praesodymium. The focus of the Lanthanides is on self-control and inner strength. Their efforts are directed toward achieving and expressing strength of mind.

In Praesodymium they doubt that they can prove their autonomy. They are very cautious because their plans are easily flattened - pushing themselves forward feels dangerous. They are afraid to say what they feel to some degree (not as much as Lanthanum or Cerium). Their realisations are a bit naive but still quite genuine.
In Praesodymium there is an urge to really start to confront the shadow and accomplish self-control.

* Hesitating to be autonomous.
* Hesitating to learn self-control.
* Hesitating to delve into the shadow.

- The Stage 5 remedy of the Gold Series is Tantalum. The focus of the Gold Series is responsibility. They use their power to rule – for better or for worse.

In Tantalum they doubt that they can be a leader. They have a strong desire to reach the top but their plans are not very well defined and their expectations are unrealistic. They don't really know how to put their plans into practice and spend ages on the details. They need a lot of encouragement or they will hesitate. If they become too arrogant someone will slap them down.

* Delusions, superiority of.
* Haughty.
* Intolerant of contradiction.
* Fear falling of.
* Dreams - poisoned, being. Failures.

Reflection: Once you get the context of rubrics thier meanings become clearer.

For example, what could "Dreams of being poisoned" signify in stage 5?

In the Gold Series its a feeling that someone's going to obstruct your rise to power.

In the Lanthanide Series its a feeling that other peoples ideas "poison" or damage your beliefs.

In the Silver Series its a feeling that other people poison or obstruct your creative ideas.

In the Ferrums petty people and rules interfere with your work.

Conclusion: Being poisoned, damaged, or obstructed becomes a common theme within the context of stage 5. In Stage 6 one starts to overcome these obstructions, in Stage 8 we force our way through them and by Stage 9 they are merely irritating.

Biblio: The Minerals, Elements and Lanthanides books by Dr. Scholten.

The Struggle of Stage 8 Remedies (Cancer miasm?)

2009-12-07T02:42:00.000-08:00

Dr. Scholten describes Stage 8 as "The Struggle". It the kind of situation that occurs when the project is already well under way.

It's nearing completion. You already have the planning permission, the techniques,  the experience and the structure. You just have have to overcome the inertia of any remaining challenges - and you need to exert a lot of power to keep to your deadlines. The alternative is to keep refining and adding bits to please others - it'll never be finished ... stuck in Stage 8!

Each series (row) of the Periodic Table has its own sphere of expression. The sphere of the Ferrum Series is at work, the Silver Series is in creativity, the Lanthanide Series is in inner power the Gold Series is in outer power and the Uranium Series is in intuition and wisdom.

- The Stage 8 remedy of the Ferrum Series is Ferrum. All the Ferrums  want to protect themselves but they are usually obliged to put up with "the rules of the game", so their own feelings get suppressed, and they can feel guilty if their performance is sub-standard.

In Ferrum the feeling is that someone is out to take their place. This means they have to struggle to protect their rights. The result is that they can't tolerate intrusion or contradiction, the pressure is on, so they compensate by becoming very stubborn, hard and resolute. They want to overcome any interference.

- The Stage 8 remedy of the Silver Series is Ruthenium.   In this series the focus is on performance and perfection. They are creatively inspired and want to be special.

In Ruthenium the struggle is to force their creativity to the fore. Their creation has to be accepted. They are enthusiastic and proud of their work and are annoyed by interference. Opposition is experienced as an extra pressure.

- The Stage 8 remedy of the Lanthanides is Samarium. The focus of the Lanthanides is on self-control and inner strength. Their efforts are directed toward achieving strength of mind.

In Samarium the struggle is to prove their autonomy.   They use their inspiration and inner power to create a new model of Spiritual Freedom. Its not perfect yet so they work on their own to consolidate their approach - the experts and the critics seem to be way behind them. They want neither help nor interference.

- The Stage 8 remedy of the Gold Series is Osmium. The focus of the Gold Series is responsibility. They use their power to rule - for better or for worse.

In Osmium the struggle is to consolidate their leadership. They are resolute and can be relentless. Their strategy is the only way forward and opposition has to be completely crushed for the benefit of all.

- The Stage 8 remedy of the Uranium Series is Plutonium. The focus of this series is on intention and intuition. In Plutonium the challenge must be to perfect their accomplishments and powers. The opposition must be within - distraction ... the tendency of the mind to wonder off on irrelevant matters.

Reflection: The "struggle and pressure" of Stage 8 sound a bit like Carcinosin, or at least the beginnings of the Cancer Miasm:

Dr. Sankaran, "Stretching over the limit to keep things in control".

Biblio: The Minerals, Elements and Lanthandies books by Dr. Scholten.

Stage 8 is represented is the homeopathic literature by the Myth of Sysiphus.

A Buddhist teacher defined stress as "the gap between what we want and what we actually get".

The more we grasp on to what we want, the more we expect the world to be the way we would like it to be, the bigger and heavier the boulder grows.

The moment we let go and accept the world as imperfect the delusion of the heavy boulder and the steep slope vanishes into emptiness.

There is no real happiness in Samsara. Happiness comes from a peaceful mind.

Sycosis (exaggeration and cover-up) in the Stage 6 Remedies.

2009-12-02T09:14:00.001-08:00

Dr. Scholten describes Stage 6 as "The Challenge". It the kind of situation that occurs when you have gained some expertise and the time has come to put it out into the world. It's time for your performance. You have the grounding, the techniques - but not the experience, and there's only one way to gain that experience - you just have to go for it. If you dare. Going through with it is the only way to progress. How many projects get stuck at this stage? Its like launching into the unknown. Its the opportunity to show what you can do. The alternative is to stay hidden - and stuck in Stage 6!

Each series (row) of the Periodic Table has its own sphere of expression. The sphere of the Ferrum Series is at work, the Silver Series is in creativity, the Lanthanide Series is in inner power the Gold Series is in outer power and the Uranium Series is in intuition and wisdom.

- The Stage 6 remedy of the Ferrum Series is Chromium. All the Ferrums are forceful but they are usually obliged to put up with "the rules of the game", so their own feelings get suppressed, and they can feel guilty if their performance is sub-standard.

In Chromium the feeling is that making a mistake means getting hurt. This means the challenge is in keeping up appearances. The result is that they can become rather closed and private people, hence the idea of "cover up" - a trait common to the Sycotic Remedies.

I cant help comparing Lycopodium to Chromium. Lyc. has doubts about taking on responsibility and projects a very self-assured, perhaps even slightly arrogant, image to society at large. Like Chromium, Lyc likes to be in control, and is wary of anything that could lessen his grip on things. Like all the Stage 6 remedies Lyc feels he has something to prove and will force himself to overcome his doubts and fears. Things usually go well when he does so. Likewise, Chromium feels fully committed to his plans. In an argument Lyc. feels he is always right and will evade the issue if he feels cornered. The issue is one of embarrasment - which chromium shares. Both are trying to keep up appearances.

- The Stage 6 remedy of the Silver Series is Molybdenum.   In this series the focus is on performance and perfection. They are creatively inspired and want to be special.

In Molybdenum the challenge is to prove that their creativity is viable. The secret creation has to be exhibited. They are proud of their work but fear humiliation.

- The Stage 6 remedy of the Lanthanides is Neodymium. The focus of the Lanthanides is on self-control and inner strength. Their efforts are directed toward achieving strength of mind.

In Neodymium the challenge is to prove their autonomy.   They are not quite there, so to accomplish this they become closed and try to be hard . Its like putting up a wall to protect themselves from any doubt about their independence and their self-control.

- The Stage 6 remedy of the Gold Series is Tungsten. The focus of the Gold Series is responsibility. They use their power to rule - for better or for worse.

In Tungsten the challenge is to prove that they can be a leader. They can be forceful and arrogant, but again they are keen to hide any uncertainty.

Below is one provers journey on Tungsten. It could equally be interpreted it as a transition from Stage 5 to Stage 6, or as a transiton of the failed Tungsten state to its cured, positive state.

Tungsten Proving
#87::Day1: Confident. Feel less intimidated.
#87::Day4: Shouted back at boyfriend.
#87::Day6: Feels as if heart is opening. Not as forsaken from family.
#87::Day9: Feel happy and intigrated.
#87::Day13: Confronted a stranger.
#87::Day 16: Enjoyed socialising.

The rubrics we have on Tungsten trace a similar story to the proving, although the failed state is quite dark and they feel out of it, indifferent, and even unreal. The cured state is "right up for it" ... The situation could be one of redundancy (a maintaining cause) that suddenly rights itself when a new career opportunity presents itself.

The Tungsten failed State:
Serious. Sadness. Death thoughts of.
Company - aversion to.
Delusions - alone, being.
Doubtful. Delusions, fail, everything will.
Fears people, being murdered, falling.
Time passes too slowly.

Positive Tungsten
Exhilaration. Optimistic.
   Ideas, abundant.
Occupation - amel.
Haughty, best clothes, likes to wear his.
Fearless - danger, in spite of.

- The Stage 6 remedy of the Uranium Series is Uranium. The focus of this series is on intention and intuition. In Uranium the challenge is to demonstrate their powers.   My guess is that they can be quite excited about their powers of intuition., but they are still developing so they can be nervous about showing off - which only invalidates their accomplishments anyway.

Perhaps the biggest challenge of Stage 6 in the Uranium Series could be found in the challenge of taking up the Buddhist Practice of Bodichitta.

"Yes, I will extend my comfort zone, and practice generosity and loving kindness in a world where everyone has their own expert opinon, without any expectation of the slightest recognition".

Shantideva:
"Just as the great elements of earth, water and so forth support the life of sentient beings, so may I too become the foundation of sustenance for all".

Relationships between the Scrophulaceae and the Ferrum Series

2009-11-25T03:06:00.000-08:00

Ord. Lamiales, Fam. Scrophulaeceae.

Digitalis.

In the mental sphere the patient is sad and depressed...

Ailments, from debauchery; from grief. Lascivious, (lustful).

Dipsomania, alcoholism.

Despair. Anxiety. Cares. Conscientious +/- Anger, trifles, at.

Delusions, light, incorporeal, he is (light=>floating).

Reproaching himself. Delusions, wrong, he has done.

Suspicious. Company, aversion to. Fear, people of. Escapes.

Anguish, cardiac. Fear, suffocation, of, heart disease, in.

Heat flushes climacteric. Heat flushes sexual excess after.

Therapeutics: Heart. Liver. Kidney. Sexual sphere.
Sensations: Stitching. Miasm: Sycotic.

DD: Stage... Suspicious => S12-S15; Outcast => S16-S17
DD: Series... Done wrong => Ferrums
DD: Elem..... People, aversion => Cupr; Persued => Zinc
DD: Salt...... Lascivious => Carbs Nitricum Flour ;

Comparitive Extraction:
Delusions - light, incorporeal, he is: Dig Zinc Plut-n.
Delusions - conscience; anxiety: DIG Zinc.
Death - presentiment of: Dig Zinc. Zinc-p.
Nymphomania - ORIG Dig GRAT Zinc Zinc-p

Sensation: Dig: Acute: Sudden Break of Connection.
Dis-connection (and holding-on) increases in Stages 12-15: i.e. Zn Ga Ge Ars. Could ALL the Scrophulaceae, from Rajan's acute to leprotic states, are grouped around ONE Stage? Lets look for a pattern by considering Gratiola.

Gratiola.

Image: Haughty. Loquacious. Hates contradiction and will contradict you! Gratiola's haughtiness is actually a reaction to the humiliation caused by pride of others.

Loquacity, cheerful, exuberant.

Nymphomania. Sexual desire-excessive.

Anger, contradiction, from. Anger, violent.

Loathing life. Aversion. Mistanthropy

Relations: Zinc or Germanium plus the Flouratum Salt.

DD: Stage... Outcast => S16-S17
DD: Series... Hides inefficiency => Ferrums
DD: Elem..... Contradicts => Germanium
DD: Salt...... Lascivious => Flouratum;

Comparitive Extraction:
Misanthropy : Grat Germ
Quarrelsome: Grat Dig Zinc Germ
Contradiction: Grat Nicc
Haughty: Grat Cupr

Sensation: Grat: Leprosy: Despised therefore no more Connection.

Gratiola (S14) like Digi (S12) is in the Ferrum Series - some of the Gratiola pathology is similar to Flour.

Ord. Lamiales, Fam. Verbenacea, Spp. Agnus Castus.
Agnus Castus (Chaste tree, Monks Pepper!) - DD Ant Crud.

Image: Breakdown. An important remedy for the Sexual sphere when there is debility and depression, as in premature old age (perhaps caused by high-living). After feeling pretty special they begin to feel useless and therefore worthless. The sexual urge is lost.

Clarke: Great sadness with a fixed idea of approaching death. This fear is not of immediate death as with Aconite, but the patient thinks it is sure to come after a while, and there is no use in doing anything. The selected rubrics give some indication of the state ...

Ailments, from sexual excesses. Amativeness. Satyriasis.

Coition averse to. Erections, wanting, desire with.

Vivacious. Exhilaration, alternating with sadness. Sentimental. Wants to be quiet.

Grief. Discontented with everything. Morose. Despair. Ideas, deficiency of.

Delusions - body is lighter than air. Doubt if anything had existance.

Delusions - he is worthless; of being nobody.

Loathing life. Indifference to external things. Death desires. Suicidal, thoughts.

DEATH -presentiment of -soon and that she cannot be helped; believes that she will die

Performance could be a major issue...

Ailments, from anticipation, foreboding. Frightful/anxious dreams.

Contemptuous, self, of. Confidence, want of self.

Intolerant of contradiction.

Discouraged, alternating with haughtiness.

Ejaculation - scanty/quick/failing. Erections either incomplete or strong.

Weakness from pollutions.

Some physical indications which confirm both Sycotic and Syphilitic miasms.

Gonorrhea, suppressed (sycosis). Urethra: Discharge, gonorrhoeal.

Sycosis. Syphilis. Mucus secretions yellow. Ulcers indolent.

Menses, painful. Protracted.

Nose, odors fish-brine; musk.

Pain, benumbing. Pain, drawing, bones in. Pain, paralytic, joints in.

Therapeutics: Gonorrh�a. Ulcers.
Sensation: Corrosive itching. Stitching. Tearing (muscles).
Miasm: Sycosis. Syphilis.

DD: Stage... Loss: Discontented, Suicidal => S15
DD: Series... Loss of ideas or performance => Silver Series
DD: Elem..... Sentimental => Antimonium Crud (the sulphide)
DD: Salt...... Loss of Enjoyment => N₂, O₂; Relationships => Sulphur

Comment: Yet another Stage 15 Lamiales Remedy!

Reflection: In Dr. Rajans Gratiola case (Plants III) the Ferrum series is confirmed by loss of connection to society, i.e. to the village. However, several Digi (closely related to Grat) rubrics suggest that they are both morally and spiritually sensitive (Lamiales trait) and can therefore lose connection with their spirituality, which is clearly demonstrated in Dr. Rajans Veronica (Lamiales::Plantaginaceae) case in Plants II. This interpretation is born out by the info we have on Buddleah.

RELIGIOUS AFFECTIONS - too occupied with religion: Dig ZINC stann
THOUGHTS; profound: Grat

This would suggest a different series althogether; a second reading of such a case could fit the Lanthanides. Is their search directed within? Is the issue (Series) self-determination or work?

Can we learn from Semantics and Semiotics?

2009-11-18T14:21:00.000-08:00

Introduction to the Structure of Language - General Semantics and Homeopathy.

Definitions

Structural Theorists regard language as a network of systematic relationships between semantic units. The basic semantic unit is a lexeme - which is the main dictionary definitions of each word. These lexemes naturally belong to a semantic field, which is an array of words having a similar meaning. The lexemes for the various sensations in Homeopathy form a semantic field. This logic can be seen in the construction of Roget’s Thesaurus (1852).

Alphabetic ordering of lexemes destroys semantic structure, as in the the Thesaurus and in the Repertory. To go further into semantic structure we need to describe how lexemes are related by meaning. The first attempt was Mirillis Thematic Repertory. Semantic structuralists recognise several paradigmatic relationships:

Synonymy - the relationship of “sameness” of meaning.
Hyponymy - the relationship of “inclusion” - Familes are included in Orders.
Antonymy - the relationship of “opposites” (which can be quite complex).
Incompatability - mutually exclusive groups or the same category.

Meaning

The study of meaning takes us by degrees through the linguistic framework of the whole of a language (I have studied English, French and Sanskrit). Interpretation of meaning is further complicated by aspects that cannot be covered simply by the analysis of lexemes.

Prosodic Meaning - describes the emphasis placed on parts of the sentence; the way it is stressed.
Grammatical Meaning - Subject + Verb + Object (e.g. I go home) gives the semantic role.
Pragmatic Meaning - describes the function. Is it a statement of fact or an implied command?
Social Meaning - describes the roles of the participants e.g. polite or rude.
Propositional Meaning - an approach which describes and test the subject matter logically (is the statement a value judgement or a fact?).

To sum up the debate on meaning, Ludwig Wittgenstein wrote “The meaning of a word is its use in language”. Ogden and Richards observed that there is no direct relationship between words and things - the relationship only exists in our mind through and associated concept (Sassure - semiotics : signified + signifier=sign). O. & R. described the process as an “semiotic triangle” of Thought<>Symbol<>Referent. The difficulty lies in identifying the active concept. According to Jacques Derrida we have to deconstruct the expression and analyse all the hidden assumptions, preconceptions and even "myths" that are implied or inherited from the philosopical, cultural or political context.

Global Exceptions?

The interesting thing about Sanskrit is that it is the root of many languages and there is supposed to be a relationship between the name, the sound, and the form - hence the 'magical' chanting of Vedas by the Pandits.

So, in Sanskrit the word "Bound" carries/invokes the sensation?

This is opposite to the structuralist (Saussure) view - that there is no inherent relationship between that which carries the meaning - the signifier/symbol and its sign.

Conclusion

Semantics has difficulty in describing how language refers to the outside world. Real-world notions are indeterminate… Our images of a beauty spot may vary. You would have to visit that place! Words are not enough (a picture is worth a thousand words). Semantics therefore restricts its focus to the relationship of words within the framework of the language. Sankaran’s Levels should take us beyond the restrictions of Semantics into the world of feeling, sensation and energy.

Application

In homeopathy we are advised to use the patients own words and not to extrapolate or interpret. This is correct from the viewpoint of semantics - it is crucial to reject any distortion of meaning. But as we have seen the real meaning is an external referent - it is outside our immediate experience. So are we stuck? How are we to proceed? Osgood’s paper on The Measurement of Meaning (1957) focused on defining a conceptual semantic space. He produced a plot of species vs. ferocity which worked because the dimensions of meaning are quantifiable. Similarly in Homeopathy we use MOPMEC scores to define “vitality” (Sherr) and Stages to define Individuation and Autonomy (Scholten).

Its seems as if the signifier and the signified have a natural and obvious relationship. It more or less “goes without saying”. In fact the Stages are purely conceptual - it is merely a fabricated semiological system which conjures up its own “generic images” which will never actually be seen in practice. In Sassures model its “too obvious too mention” generic image is a further level of “signification“… connotation (Barthes, 1967).

The Validity of Abstraction

In Sankarans system of “Levels” the primary sign is the diagnostic name of the complaint. It is a fact. As soon as we start to consider the emotional aspects of the experience we are delving into the language of abstract and the conceptual. As we dig deeper into the realms of the personal the images become more unique. Even more so when we try to comprehend the experience at the level of imagination, delusion and energy.

How can we remain an unprejudiced observer and avoid interpretation and yet do good work in the realm of the inherently conceptual? What makes a move from denotation (the sign) to connotation possible is the store of knowledge we have about each remedy - its components and its gestalt which is a shared code which we can draw upon. These images can be drawn and refined from the literature and from our own clinical and personal repertoire. Their best use is not through computerised pattern matching - they should resonate with us conceptually and intuitively and ideally in the same way the remedy resonates with the client.

In Practice

The words the client uses are only the tip of the linguistic iceburg. We have to understand his experience. The words are the signs. Their connotation is deeper.

Similarly Sholtens and Sankarans keywords are the signs of the remedy state. The state, itself, the connotation is a deeper level of abstraction. Without abstract thinking we are left at Rogets level - scanning the dictionary (or repertory) for broken semantic fields.

Abstract thinking produces Generic Themes - but the ultimate level of abstraction is the experience itself. Wittgenstein proposed that a basic sentence has three parts - two objects and a relationship between them:
                                             [a]-[R]-[b]
Jan Scholten asserts that this is exactly the way we should break down a symptom ...
                               [Subject] - [verb] - [object]
                                [It] - [happened to] - [me]
So all we really need to describe an experience is a theme for the subject, one for the action and one for the object. This applies equally to the experience and to the description of the remedy.

Differential Diagnostics depends on two aspects of the process:
- How we handle [It] [Subjective][Stage x Series]
- How our reaction to it is expressed [Objective][Salt]

Example 1 [Stage x Series]: Ord Lamiales, Fam Oleaceae, Spp Chionanthus: A nervous, hypochondriacal and pessimistic state, with apathy and a desire to be alone. Quarrels agg.

Ailments from quarrels. Irritability. Indifference.

DD: Stage... Indifference => S14 <> S16.
DD: Series... Quarrelsome => Ferrums series.
DD: Elem.... Anxious > confirms Stannum.

Example 2, [Salt]: If I lose my Mum and grieve you might think Mum is the subject of the grief and prescribe a Muriaticum. The actual process [How I handle it] is that I become hard. Subject and Object can swap round...

"I am hardened to my grief about Mom" [hardened=subject. grief about Mum=object]
The process [subject][how it is expressed] is my hardening. The Salt is a Flouratum.

A new section of my Plant Kingdom Database uses some of these ideas: [Go][Click on Lamiales]

Ref: Repertory of the Elements by Jan Scholten.

Palladium

2009-10-07T03:14:00.000-07:00

Palladium <> 3rd Chakra <> Sycosis

Third Chakra
Development: Autonomy. Individualty. Will. Self-Esteem. Power.
Blocks: Glamour. Rejection and criticism. Secrets.

The Miasm (Sycotic) - The sycotic person will show off - glamorous looks, recognition, and so on are very important. They crave attention all the time and keep thier faults to themselves and hide their feelings. They are stiff because they want to stay in control of their emotions. They want things to be fixed so they focus on details and classifications. It can lead to dogma and pedantry. Doubts and anxieties (psora) are exaggerated and overdone. (Ref: George Loukas).

Palladium is so typical: I lack confidence sometimes so I feel insecure. I'v got to be perfect so I must to hide my mistakes. If I'm appreciated I don't need to hide my mistakes. Thinking that, "My way is best" can lead to rigidity and fixed ideas.

The Autonomous Self
Big Mind - Vivacious and Idealistic: I'm it! I'm there! I'v worked for this. It feels great. I'm wonderful. Perfect. A success.

Big Heart - I deserve admiration: I need some sort of approval and encouragement. I'm not really appreciated.

The Powerful Self
Energised - I must please: I have high expectations which make me a bit anxious. I reassure myself by being focused, directed, in control of every detail, so enjoy the show - It's all for your benefit so don't criticise or insult me.

Depleted - Collapse after the performance: I made a mistake. My plan didn't work. I'v lost control of things and I'm feeling weak, lonely and sad. Am I still good enough? What can I do now to get their attention?

Rubrics:
* Ailments - mortification/wounded honour/being offended/egotism.
* Delusions - abused/criticized/insulted/neglected/tall/enlarged.
* MIND - HAUGHTY - wounded self-esteem; wishes to be flattered
* MIND - CONFIDENCE - want of self-confidence
* MIND - DICTATORIAL

Conclusion: The Power remedies of the Lanthanide and Gold Series all affect Sycotic aspects of the 3rd chakra? Hmmm ... most of these are normally considered Syphilitic remedies.

So consider Gadolinium - also Stage 10, and (from a 3rd chakra perspective) it seems to be complimentary to Palladium - Jan says they give you an impression of being self-satisfied or even haughty. Balance and Control are very important to them and can lead to rigidity. Its anxiety vs. self-esteem again. We are back in 'Sycotic' territory!

Refs:
Leela D'Souza
Chakras

Conan the Samarium

2009-09-29T09:37:00.000-07:00

Samarium Praxis - the struggle to acheive, from page to stage.

Jan Scholten says that the experience of Samarium is extreme pressure and heaviness. They have to force their way through life. They have amazing inner strength, and they will put incredible pressure on themselves to get things done. Their own expectations are the driving force. Their forceful attitude to life might be expressed as ....

"You just have to get on with it".
"Lets get it done. Whatever it takes."
"Nothings gonna bring me down".

A typical Samarium dream is of driving at great speed trying to keep the car on the straight and narrow.

They still feel that they have lots to do and that they will go far. The reward for their struggle is independence and autonomy.

They have to get over, round or through every obstruction. Opposition is felt as harsh criticism, in fact it can seem like everyone's a critic. Its easy to criticise, but much harder to DO!

Provings often give a mixed bag of results. In Clinical trials the remedy is judged to be suitable for the person, which means they will be sensitive to it and their reactions will be good indicators of its therapeutic role. One person who took part in an early proving seems to have experienced the expected result with Samarium, which is a Stage 8 Lanthanide (autonomy/power) Remedy:

"I feel self-confident and assertive. The sensation is that I am who I am."

Various others described feelings of "hindrances" or of "breaking boundaries" which are, in general, typical of Stage 8 - the theme of "pushing through".

Lutetium

2009-09-26T10:08:00.000-07:00

End Game - Lutetium.

Lutetium has suffered so much that there is nothing left. The connection to this world is crumbling and or broken. They are dissociated and dysfunctional.

They dont want or need anything the world has to offer, they are alone but they don't care. Its a state beyond desire, without hope. The "emotional body" isn't flat - its dead.

Its one stage from the Autistic-like states of the Halogens and it looks a bit like some of the Bird Remedies - the captive ones, for sure. They still have a sense of playfulnes and humour - but it arises from their own distance from the world and its clarity and wisdom are pervaded by nostalgia and emptiness.

Image: Think of a survivor stumbling around the sterile war-torn landscape of Judgement Day.

Holmium

2009-09-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

Investigating the Power remedies of the Holmium Group (Stages 12 & 13)

In the Lanthanide Series we're talking about the power to assert our autonomy.

What's coming though in spades with Holmium is a sense of previously subdued Power coming to light - and subsequently the Wisdom of learning to deploy Power morally and responsibly.

The power, once awakend can manifest as anger - and old anger turns to resentment. The repressed feelings come out as a rage against the machine... Its exact expression depends on the Salt:

In Holmium Oxy there is anger at injustice and a sense of being wronged.

In Holmiun Nit the anger could be caused by feeling second best. Like Nux-v they want the best - they put themselves first and are assertive, expansive and want to be admired. They dont want rules or limits.

In Holmium Phos the anger or frustration is caused by betrayal by friends and loss of contact. Phosphoricums define themeselves by these boundaries and fear loosing them. This is comparable to the spacey, boundless, gaseous state of the Nitricums (perhpas expressed in the 'polarity' Nitrogenium delusion - everything is meaningless). Phos wants to be earthed to some degree.

Im Holmium Mur the anger is about the grief from deeper relationships - broken trust, neglect or loss of security.

Without wisdom and compassion power gives you the ruthlessness of a dictator, which is traditionally associated with Mercury, in Stage 12 of the Gold Series, the realm of external power. Meurcury feels suspicious and threatened. Thalium, next to mercury in Stage 13 of the Gold Series, trys to hold on to his power by being stubborn and dogmatic. He needs to be stubborn and irritable to get his own way because he has almost lost faith in himself and, more importantly, his strength . He eventually withdraws into himself.

Similarly the pathological Holmium (also Stage 13) has lost faith in his inner self - his own being and is also on the back foot. The remedy brings back some of this lost power.

Looking at my own life I can see a contiunuum of very closely related states that goes:

Dysprosium -> Holmium -> Erbium.

Dysprosium, at Stage 12, feels independent but under constant attack. They are brave people who challenge the world with new ideals. Sometimes they can get such a battering that they feel like giving up. That point - giving up the fight - marks the transition to the next stage Holmium, where they can no longer preserve their autonomy and have to take a step back. This is felt as a heavy deafeat. Hence the bitterness.

In Erbium, (Stage 14) they have really lost the fight. They feel powerless. After that comes the despair of Thulium (Stage 15) a state so dark it would frighten you to even read about it! Beyond that lies dissociation and ultimately - madness :)

Refs: "Elements" (blue book) and "Secret Lanthanides".

Lanthanide themes in Lachesis?

2009-08-04T09:38:00.001-07:00

Snakes in general are quite solitary and avoid people. There is Secrecy, misanthropy, and delusions of enemies. Some are quite egotistical. These signifiers place the Snake remedies between Stages 12 and 17. The Series is more difficult to discern, but one clue is that there is a strong focus on Sexuality which suggests the Silicon Series - establishing relationships outside the family.

Lachesis seems to resonate with Stage 12, Crotalus with Stage 15 and Cenchris with Stage 16.

I'm just revising Philip Baileys Lachesis. I started noticing hints of Lanthanide qualities such as autonomy, independence, depth, sexuality and so on.

We all know that Lachesis Remedy Persons (LRP's!) seem to hate restriction and have inner tensions which are better from discharging emotions in the form of loquacity or sexuality. Philip says the hatred of restriction can also manifest as a need for their own space in a relationship or a loathing of being ordered about (typical teenagers).

Some LRPs can be quite extraverted and enjoy being the centre of attention which reminds me of Stage 10 . LRPs are often known to be quite philosophical (Sulphur).

You get a slew of remedies in bold type (including Lachesis) In the rubric:

Contradiction - disposition to contradict: ANAC CAUST HEP LACH LYC NUX-V

What's really confusing about Lachesis is that it comes out on top if you "collect" rubrics that might suggest a Lanthanide, e.g. philosophical, thoughtful, curious, sympathetic, and mystical (Sulphur too!). To understand this we'd have to go back to 1828 and step into Hering's shoes. But Lachesis may be alive and well today...

The primary Lachesis conflict between Morality and Instinct is emphasised in Alice Bailey's interpretation of the Twelve Labours of Hercules ... in Scorpio (the Lernean Hydra) Hercules rises above matter and in the next sign, Saggitarius (the Stymphalian Birds) he recognises his emotional nature, which he restrains through the control of thought and so on, until he arises as a pure being in Pisces.

This path is also seen in Buddhas sutra teachings; but these are the common preliminary practices, and can also be found in many world religions. This path, on its own, can be merely intellectual sprituality. It has neither the depth of Mahamudra nor of the Lanthanides.

Kail Brom - (Under construction).

2009-07-15T05:47:00.001-07:00

Dr. Rajan give us an insight into the Kali-br mind: Structure Vol II, P. 561.

"Delusion: impression of danger from his own family". This means that the feeling is that those you depend on (Kali) will harm you (Brom).

In that situation you have to be careful to conform to your parents wishes or you get punished swiftly and harshly. You end up thinking even a small mistake is a crime, "Delusion, crime: committed he had".

Sex becomes riddled with guilt, and since any sense of normality or morality is eroded, perversions arise.

Kali Sulph - Voice Dialogue

2009-07-09T12:14:00.001-07:00

Mrs Kali-S, expressed through the voice dialogue method.

Big Mind: I have to look after my partner and friends.

Big Heart: I must bring kindness, love and joy to my family and friends.

The Protector : Having the respect of family and friends makes me feel secure, so I have to stand by everything they do. I worry about others. I'm afraid of the people at work. People should always take care of each other.

The Seeker: I work hard for my family because I need their respect (Delusion: disgraced).

The Shadow: I feel proud when I have the respect of my family and friends. I'm upset by trifles, such as rudeness at home. I'm easily offended. I can get angry and even hysterical when the harmony of my home is disturbed. I'm easily discouraged so sex is out! I sleep lightly but I have vivid dreams ... robbers, murder and accidents.

Exploring Stage15: Yielding and Loss

2009-07-08T11:17:00.001-07:00

Stage 15 is well on the way down-hill. The remedies in Col 15 fight back against the odds fiercely when put under pressure but there comes a point at which they give way and become very dark and very ill.

According 'Homeopathy and the Elements', P.58 the elements in this column have a profound sense of loss.

This sense of loss is associated with the Tubercular Miasm, where there is a rush to savour lifes wonder, right down to the last drop. The lighter elments in this column, Nitrogen and Phosphorous types, when healthy, seem to mirror this stage, where there is a rush to travel and savour society (Phos), enjoyment and freedom (Nit).

But make no mistake, there is a dark side to the phosphorous extravert. The tubercualar miasm is a precarious and dangerous place to be because, in the not too distant past, the diagnois of T.B. implied the most awful and uncurable degeneration of the lungs imanginable. You were just left to get on with it. So, this miasm has another side to it, a narrowing down of lifes enjoyments, leaving only the threat of darkness, despair, utter lonliness and ultimately defeat.

One moment the Tubercular person is elated and happy to be alive, the next they feel very poorly, and frightend of feeling so close to death. This can actually be the case in the lung complaints that call for Phos, Ars and Ant-c. There is an air of death in all these.

Once the pathology takes hold the battle is lost. The patient yields.

Definition: yielding (adj) Wordnet

(n.) a verbal act of admitting defeat
(adj.) tending to give in or surrender or agree -> docile -> gentle;
(adj.) lacking stiffness and giving way to pressure ->soft;
(adj.) inclined to yield to argument or influence or control;
Similar to: compromising -> flexible, conciliatory -> appeasing.

Repertory Similars: Retaliate, cannot. No, cannot say. Mildness, etc.

A closer look at Yielding through Stage 15

They are very susciptible to bad news.   The delusion of being in a law suit shows the sense of threat and their agressive response.   They lack the power to fight of this level of threat alone. When things go wrong there is a fatalistic atittude in nit-ac. the yielding attitude shows through in the rubric, 'DELUSIONS - will power; as if loss of'.

Like Phos they can be agitated, ill humoured, hypochondriachal and afriad of death.

Phos shares some of the agitation of Nit-ac. Phos can become very agitated about work. If they are too poorly to work it can really feel as if everything is shutting down; its not just loss of income, its also the loss of the social context in which they thrive that means so much to them. They become very worried and anxious, even driven to suicidal thoughts.

Ars has Alcoholism from weakness of character. Yielding is still a theme in Ars.(>Mildness) but she has lost so much that she has gone into a despair beyond merely yielding.

Likewise, a yielding state in Antimony is expressed by a combination of rubrics such as "cannot bear to be looked at" (>Cowarice), 'carried, desires, to be' and the depth of fear is described by the rubric: fear - recover, he will not. Loss is evident in the sense of nostalgia.

Bismuth kills herself - the suffering is almost unimaginable - constriction of chest, angina, palpiation and so on - desparately clinging to anything or anyone.   The Bismuth state is reminiscent of the ultimate yielding of Hara-kiri, where all the power and respect is lost.

And Thulium?

Jan says Thulium gives up autonomy for the sake of gaining Self. What could this mean? Well, he adds that giving up their personality is their Achilles heel. Its much more than backing down out of politeness like Phos. Is it yielding the ultimate... submission? What kind of submission?
Is submission the strategy that runs through Stage 15?

Jan gives: Loss, Surrender, Handing over, sacrificing and refusing.

Post Script: Distribution of Yielding rubric through the Stages.

Stage 1 nat-c nat-m (>Mildness. >Cowardice) Caust : Yield because they are submissive and unsure of themselves.
Stage 2 Mag-m Calc-sil (>Mildness) Bar-c (>Benevolence. >Cowardice) Bar-m : Ditto. Timid. Flexible. Indecisive. (>Bar-s. servile, obsequious, submissive)
Stage 10 Carb-v Sil : They are uncertain and unstable and therefore easily influenced (>Servile, obsequious, submissive. >Benevolence. > Cowardice).
Stage 10 Aur-m-n : Gives up (>mildness) when she feels she has failed. (>Aur: servile, obsequious, submissive. >Benevolence. >Cowardice)
Stage 11 Cupr: Proving & Holding on through rituals. His perseverance softens under criticism (>Servile, obsequious, submissive. >Cowardice).
Stage 12 Zinc: Repeating, copying & overproduction. Yields under pressure of failure (>Cowardice. >Mildness).
Stage 15 Phos. Ph-ac: Fears loss of friendship so she appears submissive and polite (>Benevolence. >Mildness. >Cowardice).
Stage 17 Flour-ac: Gives up and becomes indifferent to business and to family.

The issue of identity in Row 3 and the Lanthanides

2009-07-07T06:50:00.000-07:00

Speculation on the relationship of Row 3, the identity series, and the Lanthanides.

Consider a hypothetical case where the impact of an alcoholic abusive father causes suppression of identity in Alumina,Al2O3, [R3,Stg3].

Sankaran, Structure, P427: Where the parent continually dominates the child saying “No, that’s wrong, you know nothing, I’ll show you how its supposed to be done”.

The result is seen in the rubrics:

“Irresolution, timidity and fear”.

“Confusion, identity to his“.

“Delusion, I am small”.
"Obstinate".

Now Row 3 is about the childhood development of one’s ego and identity (P. 308). The child needs support. Rajan says, “It is an important issue in man to develop his individuality, have and identity, choice and ego”.

Now please compare the above with Row 7, we are told that the issues are of autonomy (independence), inner control and inner self. These are very adult themes, but see how damage at the level of row 3 effects someone’s realisation and fulfilment of this row? Are we going to prescribe a Row 3 remedy or one from Row 7?

Consider the rubrics (themes) of Lanthanum Oxydatum, R7,St3, it has the same anion as Alumina, and it demonstrates a recurrence of issues: They are unable to state their autonomy and independence. Jan points out it’s the result of feeling that they are not worth very much (Lanthanides P. 117).

Your dilemma as a Practitioner, is to decide which remedy to give to a 40yr old woman who‘s found refuge in T.M. (or somesuch) for 20yrs …. Would Alumina suffice to reduce her dependence on her adopted ethics? Your next dilemma, perhaps on the same day, is to decide which remedy to give to a 5yr old …. Does she qualify for a Lanthanide? Why? She’s withdrawn, mutilates herself, feels she has no talents (P. 118) and hates being weak and dependent. Both cases have Autonomy and Row 3 issues. We hope both clients will become free to express their identity, which would also be important in an Alumina case.

All other indications being equal (is that likely? We need to differentiate carefully) I would expect a deeper penetration and reaction from La-Oxy.

Conclusion: Row 7 is closely related to Row3 but deeper acting (other indications being equal).
Question: Is Alumina the ‘childhood acute’ of La-Oxy? Looks like it.

Kali Nitricum - Voice Dialogue

2009-07-07T06:29:00.001-07:00

Mr. Kali-Nit, expressed through the Voice Dialogue method.

Big Mind - I enjoy my work, its part of the good life.

Big Heart - Enjoyment is the main thing!

The Protector - Happiness is my reward for a job well done. Its a philosophy of life that everyone should adopt.

The Controller - I'm bored by this! I'm anxious about work, but it isn't everything - life's too short.

The Seeker - Don't try to stop me. I want it all and I want it now! I don't care about morals, or sexual restrictions. When I'm discontented I dream of carousing or journeys. I wake easily.

The Vulnerable Child - I'm very cautious, and I'm anxious about the future. It gives me headaches. If I don't do my duty they will be after me. I've a horror of loosing my penis.

The Damaged Self - I'm angry and a bit paranoid. I feel trapped by these four walls. I cry when I head sad music - I'm missing out on so much. I feel as if I'm dead already.

Kali Phos - Voice Dialogue

2009-07-07T04:38:00.001-07:00

Ms Kali-P, expressed through the Voice Dialogue method.

Big Mind - I have to look after my family and my close friends.

Big Heart - I have to stay in touch. I would be lost without my family.

The Protector - My job is to protect myself, family and friends. My sense of duty extends to anyone in trouble. I'm a good Samaritan.

The Controller - I work and study hard because if I do well I can look after everyone. I'm open, sympathetic and honest.

The Seeker - I like excitement. I'm always doing something. Life's too short. I rove around the world because I love making new contacts and friends.

The Vulnerable Child - I have so many anxieties and fears! My health, the future, and of death. I'm very jumpy. I have frightful dreams. I don't like heights or open spaces.

The Shadow - I am excitable and impressionable, almost clairvoyant. I see frightful images of death and destruction. Time runs away from me.

The Damaged self - When I overdo it I become sad, weary and indifferent to everything. I feel forsaken and everything looks strange and dead. My memory is weak, but I'm very sentimental.

School Play - Platina and Merc go to the awards

2009-06-30T08:11:00.001-07:00

Merc is pacing to and fro' holding a sheaf of papers and stabbing at her mobile. She's looking annoyed and agitated ... muttering about killing her Financial Advisor. Why won't he answer the phone? The bastards probably on Holiday - on what's left of my savings!

Meanwhile Platina's trying to get through to Merc ... When Merc finally picks up she says "Do you know what time it is? Are you coming to my award ceremony or not? Have you FORGOTTEN?

Merc: No, of course I haven't forgotten, I've got more important concerns on my mind than some blasted award ...

Plat: WHAT could be MORE important than my AWARD?

Merc: Its just empty flattery. I've had a court summons - my business partner's suing me for £28,000, and I'v just lost half that amount in a derivatives trade.

Plat: I'v just bought a new ROLEX ...

Merc: Well, that's just GREAT!

Plat: Look, just get here for 7! We're going in your MERC!

Merc: I'm not going. Those bastards know I'm past it.

Plat: I'll go on my own then SAD-ACT!

Merc: Hangs up. Bloody friends. Bankers. Awards. BACK-STABBERS!

Plat: Who cares! I'v got to get ready ... don't want to keep my fans waiting.

Voice Dialogue with Merc

2009-06-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

The Big Mind Process applied to Merc.

The Autonomous Self

The Integrated Self - My main issue is the fear of losing my power.
Big Mind - I must protect my failing, rotten kingdom any way I can.
Big Heart - I'm a hypocrite, totally alone. I've lost faith in everything.

The Powerful Self

The Protector - My job is to protect the Self from harm. I want to protect my position and my luxurious lifestyle. I do this by being guarded and suspicious of everyone, especially backstabbers. I don't like open spaces, or crowds. Anything could happen. My enemies might try some trick on me.

The Controlling Self

The Controller - My job is to control. I'm disgusted and discontented with everything. I'm terse, rude, hateful and dictatorial and I will destroy anyone who offends me or gets in my way.

The Searching Self

The Seeker - I'm bored and cynical about everything. I'm sick of empty flattery. I love flashing money around but then I go gambling to claw it back.
The Vunerable Child - I want to be at home. I feel frightened and forsaken. I have a horrible sensation of falling.

The Reflective Self

The Voice of the Dualistic Mind - I struggle to control all sorts wild and frightful ideas, even of my own impulses. I'm lascivious and will try anything. A slight offence makes me want to kill anyone, even my loved ones. I have a "thing" about knives.

The Shadow Self

The Damaged Self - I feel as if I'm dying. I'm not afraid of death. I want out! Its Hell anyway!
The Skeptic - My job is to be skeptical of everything. I keep trying but I worry about the future. It's all going to end badly. I loath this life sometimes.

Voice Dialogue with the remedy derived from Platinum

2009-06-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

The Big Mind Process applied to Platina.

The Autonomous Self

The Integrated Self - My very soul is exalted!
Big Mind - I am proud of everything I do.
Big Heart - I'm a sexual egoist too, above anything common.

The Powerful Self

The Protector - My job is to protect the Self from harm. I want to protect my pride. I might have implants or a face-lift, because I fear that i'm not appreciated. I have a real temper, even from trifles. I'm contemptuous and easily offended. I can be violent and cruel. I don't like being ruffled by children.

The Controlling Self

The Controller - My job is to control. I'm dictatorial and contemptuous of everyone. I'm beautiful and I'm rude to everyone - because I'm worth it! If you lend me money I'll treat you to a lavish night out, but once I'v spent it all thats it, you'll never see me again. As long as my lawyers and bankers are happy I don't care.

The Searching Self

The Seeker - I'm already spiritually accomplished. I'm self-absorbed and narcissistic about it. I don't really care about religion. I like expensive things, gaiety and excitement, catch up with me at the Cannes Film Festival.

The Reflective Self

The Voice of the Dualistic Mind - I struggle to control my excessive sexual passion and frustration with everything. It's all beneath me really, but that makes me feel strange, disconnected and alone. I don't really care about my family.

The Shadow Self

The Damaged Self - I can be highly erotic or highly egotistical. I have to express my exaggerated sense of self somehow! The other side of my ego is a feeling that I'm a disgrace. My temper tantrums open up my dark side. I can commune with the dead. People look dark and devilish. I'm haunted by a fear that I could easily die.
The Vulnerable Child - I feel frightened and alone, because I don't really belong. I don't want to be abandoned. I'm sad, sulky, anxious and weary of life.

Misha Norland's approach to Symptoms.

2009-06-18T09:40:00.000-07:00

Choleric - Phlegmatic Axis
Stg 15 [N Ph Ars Sb Bi Tm]

Choleric HOT/DRY Sx are dynamic and decisive. Irritable and explosive.

On the Phlegmatic COLD/WET Polarity we get static, indecisive, faithful, feeling engulfed and loss of identity.

Take Bismuth. Morose. Suicidal.
The subnitricum has delusions of superiority, of falling and of being alone. Amoral. Fear of death and of suicide. Moods are obstinate or sad, longing for female company. The pains are cramping.

Do the complaints fit with your idea of HOT & DRY vs. COLD & WET? Bismuth is heavily phlegmatic but there a some choleric aspects (extremities: coldness vs. skin: burning).

Looking at the evidence what would you expect Thulium to be like? Yes, serious and heavy! Dr Scholten lists loss of autonomy. Annihiliation. Darkness. Falling. Doom. The very epitomy of the phlegmatic temperament, but Thulium can also express the choleric polarity, becoming excessive, wild and murderous.

Compare Thulium and Bismuth with Opium. There are similarities which suggest that Opium has an affinity with Stage 15 (or 16) [Xref]. The disturbance is mainly of affect and to the formation of ideas - Silver Series. Antimony (S5,St15) has shades of these polarities e.g. Ecstacy, walking in moonlight, Lascivious vs. Loathing, Morose, Sad.

Opium symptoms seem to lies mainly on the Choleric - Phlegmatic axis.

It seems to be a very changeable state, with a variety of dark moods and polarites.

The other Paperveraceae may have a similar shaped plot (Chel, Morph and Sang all have deep moods with similar polarities of anger and excitabilitiy). Dr Sankaran gives the passive reaction for the whole family as Analgesia, Coma, Painlessness and Numbness. He gives the active reactions as rage, spasms and convulsions.

(Click image for white b/g)

In Ignatia, which is representative of the Loganaceae family, rubrics indicate that the main axis is in the direction of water. The warmer sanguine and colder phlegmatic temperaments merge into a watery gradient.

The polarity, the choleric temperament is an equal blend of earth and fire.

Remember that these are soft relationships - their function is primarily to create a deeper "neural network" of memorable associations, but they can also help us access unfamiliar or unknown remedies and predict how they might behave.

We've strayed quite far into foreign lands already, lets get really eccentric now, and plot the planetary aspects (which represent the Inner Self in Huber Charts) of my birthday, 4/9/55 onto a Misha style map to show where I should be at in good health ...

Does this show the type of remedies that might be useful to me in this life? I wonder. If I was convinced I'd select one of the corresponding Misha Remedy Maps (in McRep or his book).

The ones with a main vertical axis, crossed by a minor 45' axis are: Calc-phos, Sul-ac, Ars-Iod, Iodum, Iris, Anaholium and Agaricus. These are Maps of the totality though - you'd have to include the Astrological Houses as well to get such a complete picture. Still, these suggestions are not that far off the mark.

A further use for this system of plotting hot/cold against dry/wet is that has the potential to represent data on the plant's natural habitat and ecology e.g. Pulsatilla has an affinity for sandy soil and fresh air.

Ref: Misha's book: The Four Elements in Homeopathy

Xref: Stages in the Plant Kingdom (The Eudicot Series - Opium)

Hawks and Doves and the Dysprosium State

2009-06-16T04:38:00.001-07:00

Hawks and Doves refers to J. Maynard Smiths work on "Evolution and the Theory of Games". It is a sort of Transactional Analysis using the replicator equation which demonstrates the fitness landscape of various population types.

It is assumed that every genotype has a well defined replication rate (fitness). This fitness is the "height" of the landscape. Genotypes which are similar are said to be "close" to each other, while those that are very different are "far" from each other. The two concepts of height and distance are sufficient to form the concept of a "landscape".

The analysis is applied to a situation in which there is a competition for a shared resource and the contestants can choose either conciliation or conflict.

That's the theory part of it. I once used it to draw similar inferences from a cluster analysis of the social interactions of a group of Orangs. That's the long way round - a research project!

The short way is just to observe ... and to get a feel for the comfort zone of each subject.

To get a feel for the landscape of our own comfort zone consider the game of chicken ... where two drivers both head for a single lane bridge from opposite directions. The first to swerve away yields. In the game of chicken we automatically evaluate the risk of the confrontation in terms self-esteem and self-respect as well as the intensity of the physical danger. The point at which we yield demonstrates the limit of our comfort zone (i.e. fitness, in Hawks and Doves).

The Transactional analysis model (Eric Berne), also demonstrates that we manifest our personality through a mixture of behaviours or ego-states which can shift between dominant and yielding, the parent, the adult or the child. If these states cause us sufficient embarressment and discomfort they can become disowned, and exist as shadow parts of ourselves - organised clusters of unwanted perceptions, cognitions and affects ^[1,2].

In the Homeopathic study of the elements the landscape of our comfort zone and deeper constellations of "hidden" energy patterns, is measured by a sliding scale of characteristic "Stages" (1-17)^[3] (the stages represent distance in Hawks and Doves).

An example to illustrate: I asked a colleage if he would like me to find a more deeper acting remedy than the St John's Wort he uses. The answer came back with depth and force (Scorpio?) and with a steely/iron determination,

"Not if it interferes with my creativity".

That's enough to indicate to me that we are looking at the self-determination of the Lanthanides (not the creativity of the Silvers) , and then Stage 8 at the very least, and more likely at Stage 12 - Dysprosium. Dysprosium can be suspicious of people interfering with their freedom.

Do try repertorising it ... where would you end up? Rubrics can only give a fragmented glimpse. It is very difficult to choose a group that really expresses the 'gestalt' ...

Suspicious - medicine will not take [anac ars Cimic Lach]??

Dictatorial [anac ars aur aur-m-n Aur-s Camph carc Cupr falco ferr Fl-ac lac-h lach lil-t LYC Med Merc ozone pall Plat puls Sulph thuj verat]

On this analysis we might be prompted to take a closer look at anacardium, or the aurums. Other interesting ones might be ...

Lachesis (Viperidae), in some commentaries Lachesis sounds like a deeply spiritual remedy, but its only a snake! Its about self-grasping and self-expression coming out in a very materialistic way. It finds is home in our primitive, shadowy, reptile brain - the medulla and parts of the limbic system. These areas of the brain are the home of suspicion, jealousy and rivalry and also the source of our agressive and seeking dreams.

Camphora (Laurales, Stage 15?), feels isolated and alienated. The image of the Steppenwolf, the ranting philosopher who is forsaken, out in the cold. He alternates from vexation to rage (Sulph).

Cimicifuga (Ranuncs, Stage 13?), Trapped/Vexed. Hoyne: Miserable, dejected feeling; feels grieved and troubled.

Ozone (Stage 16) is a special case - usually prescribed as an Oxdatum, e.g. Dysprosium-Oxy, which has the feeling that they need to keep self control in order not to be abused. I think that's about as close as you can get from the information given.

... Dys-Oxy!

^[1]Xref: Ego State Therapy
^[2]Xref: Pt3.Ch1.Archetypes.BigMind
^[3]Xref: Pt1.Ch1.Scholten.18-stages

Oxygen is Worthless?

2009-06-10T07:20:00.000-07:00

Exploring the theme of Worthlessness in Oxygen (Stage 16).

A portrait derived from the Oxygenium rubrics ...

The Oxygen client is normally sensitive and sympathetic. They have a sense of what is just and fair, and are easily offended. Then they rationalise everything and loose contact with their emotions. The resulting depression extends to diminshed self-appreciation. They can try to compensate by being sarcastic and egotistical.

The Oxygen rubric, "Indifference external things to" describes the state that arises from the feeling that everything is worthless. A similar state (Worthlessness + Indifference) is also found in Agnus Castus, Anacardium, Thuja and Perigrine Falcon.

In Agnus Castus there is arrogance, discontent, alternating with self-contempt, deep sadness and a worthless feeling. Anacardium trys to impress because she feels helpless, insecure and has a lack of confidence.Thuja feels unlovable - lonely and empty. The Peregrine feels trapped.

The rubric "Indifference to external things" lists several other remedies. Do the other remedies listed in this rubric express the same sense of worthlessness?

Schroyens: [agn am-c am-m anac berb bit-ar bov buth-a calc-p cann-i cham cic coca-c con euphr falco-pe Hell Kola lyc merl olib-sac op ozone part-ra Ph-ac plat polys rumx stann staph SULPH tarent thuj verat vip].

Roger van Zandervort: [achy allox bac Bos-s choc Heroin lsd oxyg PHOS pyrit sulo-ac]

The expression of 'worthlessness' can be determined by examining each remedy in the context of our best understanding of its totality. Some examples:

achy:- Caryophyllales: Amaranthaceae: achyranthes calea : Psychological themes: rationalizing, lack of feeling, depression; Apathy; Remorse, repentance; Fear of suffering.

In Achyranthes the indifference looks like the expression of a moral dilemma - the amoral polarity swings back to quietude, fear, repentance and remorse. This is one-step removed from the Pyrites feeling and two-steps removed from the Oxygen feeling.

Bos-s:- Bos-s is Frankincense - Boswellia serrata: Sapinales. Normally, Religious, sensitive and clairvoyant, harmonious, loving and altrustic, he can loose his state of grace and become worried about trifles, ashamed and discontented with himself and even confused about his identity. There is detatchment and misanthropy.

am-c and am-m:- Both Ammonia compounds, the (bi)carb [NH4HCo3] and the chloride [NH4Cl], contain Nitrogen. Nitrogen (stage 16) has the delusion that everything is meaningless, which is only a short step away from getting into the indifference of Oxygen (stage 17). Am-c also contains Oxygen so it's no wonder that it is estranged, indifferent and has a delusion that things are empty.

Carbonicums can also feel that thier self-worth is in doubt and to them the world is a hard place - carbon adds a softness to any compound. Carbon compounds dissolve harsh realities into soft tears and the world takes on a softer aspect.

am-m:- Ammonium chloride (the chloride ion is at stage 17) has its own special take on loathing and aversion to everything. The tears of Chlorine compounds (Muriaticums) can flow from self pity. The bicarb decomposes to the chloride which mirrors the homeopathic change from stage 16 to 17 ...

NH₄HCO₃ + HCl → NH₄Cl + CO₂ + H₂O

allox:- Alloxan is produced by the oxidation of uric acid (ammonia again)!

pyrit:- Pyrite: Fools Gold: FeS2: Psychological themes: rationalizing, lack of feeling, depression; shame, offence; despair; lonliness; self-appreciation diminished; Delusions, he is being beaten. Dreams, stealing, persued. Misanthropy. Quiet wants to be. Sadness. Weeping.

Pyrites seems to have an Indifference that is similar to the Oxygen feeling. Generally Ferrums push hard, but can breakdown (weakness of will) when they are criticised. The sense of worthlessness may be due to the disulphide since Sulphur (Stage 16, like O2) has various degenerate themes, e.g. "He is disgraced". Sulphur also comes up empasized in capitals in the rubric.

PHOS:- Stage 15: Psychological themes: Altruism. Compulsions, responsibility decreased, avoiding. Distance, reservation. Apathy. Desires nothing. Discontented - everything. Disgust - everything. Estranged. Indifference.

The indifference in Phos (Stage 15) is close to the Oxygen state (Stage 16) -but a healthy Phos is usually very affectionate so the state of indifference develops as a result of being let down or being put upon, if there is a feeling of worthlessness it arises from a different cause. Oxygen needs respect, Phos wants love.

bit-ar:- Bitis arietans: Viperidae: The Puff Adder: Forsaken. Homesick. Delusions: as if far off; separated from the world. Everything seems unreal. Spaced out feeling, as if he had taken drugs.

Vip-b:- Vipera berus: Viperidae: The European adder: Indifference. Discouraged. Forsaken. Hatred. Revengeful.

Indifference in the two Vipers considered above seems to be because their feelings are so intense that they are out of touch with reality. Its not a lack of self-worth.

What is Memory to a Homeopath?

2009-06-09T04:34:00.000-07:00

Homeopathic Remedies tunnel back in time.

Each point on the graph below represents a significant growth ring, perhaps the result of a traumatic year. Metaphorically speaking, a remedy works backwards from the present moment through all the rings until its momentum is exhausted. Theoretically the only way the remedy can work its way back to birth, at point zero, is if there is something there - at point zero - that it resonates with. That would be the simillimum of your life. In the case illustrated below Lutetium went all the way back. The depth is therfore 100%. There were still obstructions to be resolved though - the width was something much less than 100%.

Anacardium, the second remedy was needed, which had a depth of about 60%, and a width of 20%. It stopped acting when it reached origin of that particular obstruction. The job's a good'un?

A further problem was resolved by Sabadilla, which went back to almost the same year as Anacardium - a depth of about 55%. It had a tiny width - only 10% ...represented by a single rubric. Lut-oxy, Anac and Sabad memories and experiences must connect on some point of common susceptablity somewhere, purely on the fact that they exist in the same mental contiuum, but no other remedy could ever be quite so specific for that particular extreem Sabadilla situation.

There is no way a single remedy could ever solve that case! Q.E.D.

Conclusion: Was that case of a Mineral or a Plant? Well ... Its a no-brainer really, don't we all need some structure and don't we all have some sensitivity? Of course, a dent in the structure of our reality (shock) would affect our sensitivites, but a structural remedy would not necessarily address every sensitivity issue. We can still include Aconite in our travel kit if we are diagnosed as a "mineral" type.

From Idealism to Rancour to Exhaustion.

2009-05-22T07:57:00.000-07:00

Nitricums can be enthusiastic party people. They want to be someone; to be the best and in Hydrogen there is a sense of joy and unity.

How do the positive life-asserting traits of Hydrogen and Nitrogen turn to Rancour in the Ammoniacums?

When the gases, Hydrogen and Nitrogen combine their primevil freedom is lost.

They jangle together in a burning liquid!

The negative aspects of each prevail, for H2 loss of unity, looking for something to hold on too ...

For N2 its hypochondria - a fear of loosing it all.

The result is anger, from both frustrated idealism (H2) and enjoyment (N2).

The Ammonicum molecule itself can combine with various anions. The rubrics of Ammonium Carb and Ammonium Mur are very similar which makes differentiation very difficult without the knife edge dissection possible with Dr. Scholtens group analysis. Lets start by comparing the rubrics.

Am-C

Dwells on what people are saying and complaints from listening to others talking (Kent).
Dwell on what others did to displease her. Lies awake from the excitement caused.
Ailments from anger and disappointed love.
Abusive. Morose. Estranged. Hatred. Violent. Loathing life. Amoral.
Fear, life-long. Suicidal.
Aversion to opp sex.
Sensitive to impressions.
Escapes from family.

Am-m

Abusive. Morose. Estranged. Hatred. Revenge. Malice. Envy.
Ailments from grief, abuse or humiliation.
Sensitive to certain persons
Aversion to family
Grief cannot cry

The similarity is striking. Using group analysis we can begin to differentiate. The salt gives direction to the Ammonum complaints. With Am-c it is directed towards the father and in Am-m it is towards the mother. Mother can also imply nuturing - or the lack of it. So the resentment can be about lack of protection and nurturing. They feel unloved and insecure.

In Am-c they can turn against the father and then extend this to life in general. Resentment extends to every little injustice in life - the lads who pick fights with everyone and everything.

In the Nitricums, Hydrogen and Nitrogen are exhausted and used up by Oxygen.

The main Oxygen themes are selfishness, loss of self-worth and a sense of abuse - we begin to feel sorry for ourselves, and become a helpless victim of circumstances.

Consider Nit-ac (Hydrogen + Nitrogen + Oxygen) vs. Phos-ac (Hydrogen + Phos + Oxygen) ...

Nit-ac

Ailments bad news (grief, shock, death of loved one), discords, domination.
Aversion to certain persons. Complaining. Cursing at home.
Intolerant of contradiction. Anger. Cynical. Cruelty. Litigious.
Loss of emotions. Brooding. Despair - rage. Death - desires.
Anxiety from thinking about things.
Artistic. Amorous. Benevolence. Cheerful.

Phos-ac

Ailments from death of loved ones. Grief, disappointed love, loss of friends. Rudeness.
Brooding. Indifference. Dwells. Envy. Suspicious. Despair. Anger - trifles. Violent.
Hatred - persons who have offended.
Amorous. Laughing. Vivacious. Weeping. Sentimental. Sensitive.

At a glance we can see the influence of "oxidation" - worthlessness and the sense of being abused - on the social axis of the Phos element. Note also the Nitricum themes - esp. the stewing anger - common to both. In Nit-ac all enjoyment has been crushed; life is worthless.

Nit-ac - loss of enthusiasm.

In Nit-ac the themes of Oxygen are imposed upon N2 and H2.

HN03! That's a lot of spent Oxygen.

The substance (Nitric acid) becomes exhausted, bitter and corrosive...

... But they can't give up and keep fighting for the kind of life they enjoy...

Phos Ac - loss of communication - isolation.

The livliness and extroversion of Phos gradually becomes exhausted (or oxidised?).

In Phos-ac they can loose contact with their family and friends.

They might drop out of their course and let it all go to hell.

The result is apathy and isolation.

Ref: "Homeopathy and Minerals" by Jan Scholten.

Ponder-Land: The Myth of Hercules

2009-05-03T05:35:00.000-07:00

Lanthanides and The Labours of Hercules - a metaphor for the spritual path.

Each sign, above, has its opposite complimentary sign, this also holds for the remedies of the left and right side of the Lanthanide series. The left side are building the foundations of a solid power base whilst the right side are delving into the subconscious mind.

The first line of the commentary below is derived from Alice Bailey's interpretation, the second is from Jan's. The sequence is presented in order of the Zodiac rather than the Lanthanides. In "The greek Myths", Robert Graves pionts out that the sequence of Labours does not correspond to the signs.

Aires - The Wild Mares (Terbium::Stage 11)
As the new disciple Hercules is set the task of capturing wild horses, symbols of intellectual activity. Hercules has to begin to gain mental control and to learn the potency of thoughts.
He tends the Mares and maintains them, the theme of Stage 11, staying in control; (Autonomy and Self-control. Maintaining Power. Charm).

Taurus - the Cretan Bull (Gadolinium::Stage 10)
Hercules deals with the potent world of desire which leads to an understanding of attraction and its transmutation into aspiration.
The Minotaur symbolises base instincts which Hercules learns to balance in Stage 10; (Autonomy and Power in harmony and balance. Confidence).

Gemini - Golden Apples of the Hesperides (Erbium::Stage 14)
Hercules searches without discouragement and learns perseverance. This test underlines the fact that we must become a living illustration of our spiritual vision.
Atlas holds the world for Hercules, in Stage 14 he is powerless on his own; (Autonomy and Power are only internal without any real influence anymore).

Cancer - the Capture of the Doe (Promethium::Stage 7)
The doe that Hercules sought is sacred to Artemis, symbolising form life, and to Diana, and also to Apollo, the sun god. Here the different aspects of consciousness instinct and intellect are transmuted into intuition.
The Hind is elusive so Hercules relies on cooperation to move forward (typical of Stage 7); (Sharing Autonomy and exerting Power. Compassion).

Leo - the Nemean Lion (Cerium ::Stage 4)
In Leo, the human being becomes aware of himself as an individual. So we have two lions pictured – Hercules, symbolising the lion of the Self or soul, and the Nemean lion, the dominant personality of the lower self.
The Lion skin suggests a need for invunerablity or even dissociation (the cocoon); (Desire for Autonomy. Fear of the Shadow. Powerless).

Virgo - the Girdle of Hippolyte (Dysprosium::Stage 12)
Virgo is known as the Goddess of Virtue or of Vice, and both these qualities are evoked here. Hercules fares badly for, despite obtaining the girdle of unity, his lack of love and understanding leads him to kill Hippolyte for what she freely offers.
Hera tricked Hercules, so he thought Hippolyte had betrayed him. A theme of lost perspective; (He must stay in control of his Autonomy. Power is defensive).

Libra - the Erymanthian Boar (Neodymium::Stage 6)
The scales of balance are the symbol of Libra, indicating that the spiritual path is not trodden through extremes but by the middle way, as taught by Buddha. Hercules makes amends for his earlier mistake by skilfully capturing, rather than killing the wild boar.
Hercules goes in powerfully (Stage 6), but shows some hesitancy or restraint (Stage 5); (Proving his Autonomy and Power. Discovery and invention).

Scorpio - the Lernean Hydra (Praseodynium::Stage 5)
The Hydra depicts the serpent of desire. In Scorpio, Hercules demonstrates to himself that he can rise above matter and stand in spiritual being.
The task seems insurmountable in stage 5; (Trying to be Autonomus and giving up. Unstable. Power easily overwhelmed).

Saggitarius - the Stymphalian Birds (Samarium::Stage 8)
Hercules, triumphant and freed from illusion in Scorpio, recognised his emotional nature. The three birds represent wrong thought and speech which he restrained through the control of thought.
He perseveres despite being wounded by the Birds - the struggle of Stage 8; (Fighting for Autonomy and showing his Power under pressure. Opposition).

Capricorn - Cerberus (Thulium:: Stage 15)
Capricorn represents the emergence of the one-pointed consciousness and the defeat of the king of beasts, the personality, leading to the triumph of selflessness and illumination. He takes on the universal perspective of the Bodhisattva.
Hercules has to enter the darkness of the underworld and looses control; (Autonomy and Power are overthrown. Its like being annihilated).

Aquarius - the Augean Stables (Europium::Stage 9)
Hercules sounds the keynote of the world server of the Aquarian Age. The pollution that Hercules is asked to clear up is selfish and materialistic desires.
He learns to moderate his strategies with cleverness and wisdom in this Stage; (Autonomy and Power are there, but still a little doubt. Perfection).

Pisces - the Red Cattle (Holmium::Stage 13)
Hercules takes his place as a World Saviour, uplifting of the whole of humanity. None of this can be accomplished, without the aid of Helios, the soul’s essential radiance.
He glimpses the darkness of underworld and has to keep fixing his mistakes;(Autonomy and Power could be overthrown. Cynical).

It's worth noting that the Astrological sequence considered from the perspective of the houses recapitulates the Stages, since the houses represent the outer expression of our life force ...

House	Sign	Title	Interpretation
1st	Aries	House of Self	Mars. Physical appearance, traits. Ego. Beginnings and initiatives.
2nd	Taurus	House of Value	Venus. Material and immaterial things. Belongings. Self-Worth.
3rd	Gemini	House of Comm's	Mercury. Lower education. Siblings. Neighborhood matters. Local travel.
4th	Cancer	House of Home	Moon. Ancestry, roots. Early environment. Mother. Cyclic end of matters.
5th	Leo	House of Pleasure	Sun. Leisure. Love affairs and sex. Creative self-expression.
6th	Virgo	House of Health	Mercury. Chiron. Routine tasks and duties. Skills or training. Jobs.
7th	Libra	H. of Partnerships	Venus. Close relationships. Marriage and business partners. .
8th	Scorpio	House of Sex	Mars. Pluto. Cycles of Deaths And Rebirth. Deep relationships. Transformation.
9th	Sagittarius	H. of Philosophy	Jupiter. Travel. Culture. Higher education. Experience through expansion.
10th	Capricorn	House of Status	Saturn. Status. Government. Authority. Father figure.Public impression.
11th	Aquarius	House of Friendships	Saturn. Uranus. Acquaintances. Higher associations. Hopes and wishes.
12th	Pisces	H. of Self-Undoing	Jupiter. Neptune. Mysticism. Seclusion. Unconscious. Unknown enemies.

Excerpts from "In the Tracks of Hercules" by kind permission of The Lucis Trust:

In her book The Labours of Hercules Alice Bailey presents a unique astrological perspective on the myth by linking each labour to one of the signs of the Zodiac. She traces Hercules' story as he begins to come under the influence of his solar ruler, and not just of his planetary or personality ruler - this is the real inner battle between the lower and higher forces of our nature.

See Also: Esoteric Astology.

Active Listening

2009-04-14T10:29:00.001-07:00

Active listening (Xref: therapeutics.1.1) is a listening style which helps encourage clients to open up and for therapists to check their understanding of the story. This style also helps give structure and direction to the consultation. Ivey & Ivey (2007) emphasize three components of active listening: encouraging, paraphrasing, and summarizing.

Following the Rogerian style we aim to be an empathetic listener and retain a non-judgmental attitude, additionally ...

We encourage the client to go on with simple statements (Yes, I see) or gestures (nodding) that avoid interrupting the story ... these are known as "Encouragers".
We can emphasise our interest by returning direct quotes to the client known as "Restatements".
We can also paraphrase by including much longer phrases and incorporate some of the client's own "important" words so that they will know that you are hearing and understanding what they are telling you.
Last, summarizing can be a valuable tool that helps your clients to organize their thoughts. Summarizing can take place at anytime during the interview and can be a way for the therapist to start an interview and focus the client on areas that need to be explored further.

From personal experience I have to add that the rationale of Active Listening must be explained properly before the process begins because there is a danger that clients may feel that they are being ridiculed!

Psychological approaches to the consultation

2009-04-14T10:25:00.001-07:00

Traditional Psychodynamic Psychoanalysts aimed to foster a transference relationship, in which the clients were encouraged to project their feelings onto the therapist who tried to remain impartial and almost anonymous. Negative feelings about past relationships were aired in this manner, sometimes using free association to discharge memories, and the therapist subsequently gave his interpretation.

In the post Freudian, Jungian era the attention was more of a therapeutic alliance, with the therapist expressing empathy. Free association was still the cornerstone of the process. Stack-Sullivan fostered a participant/observer relationship and introduced the idea of sitting at a 45degree angle to the patient, which is slightly less formal and gave each participant the opportunity to turn away and reflect. He paid attention to the way the clients communicated their concerns, not just what was being said but also how it was being said. He was an astute and unprejudiced observer of his own reactions as well as the clients, and like Jung, was interested in the projection and counter-transference of feelings.

The whole process became more open, and therapist and client collaborated. Jung developed the idea of a holding environment or space, so that the client would feel safe to talk freely. This was a move towards the Rogerian style of Client Centred Therapy.

The clients were encouraged to assume responsibility for their own problems and the therapist assumed the role of sympathetic and empathic listener.

Carl Rogers defines Empathy thus ...

"... the ability to perceive the internal frame of reference of another with accuaracy ... as if one were the other person...

... if this "as if" quality is lost, then one is in the state of identification."

There was no formal assessment because it was felt the this didn't help the client sort out their own goals. The responsibility for setting and accomplishing goals is shifted back to the client. A contract of roles and responsibilities is formed between client and therapist which states that, "this is an alliance in which I am facilitating you to help yourself". The premise is that, "You have all the resources you need within you if you think it through".

Rogers emphasised the importance of developing the clients trust in their ability to actualise their own potential within a supportive climate. He accomplished this by separating the client from the behaviour and from this attitude developed the concept of "unconditional positive regard", which means he aimed to be an unprejudiced observer and provide an outgoing positive feeling without reservation or evaluation. There are obvious ethical boundaries to this but if we build congruence, empathy and regard the client may adopt these qualities.

Autonomy is a wonderful and high minded qualtity to encourage in others, and as Rogers asserts our own insights are indeed more valuable to us than the therapists, but often insight needs a stimulus! One glaring shortcoming of his approach is that various clients need varying degrees of guidance! Most of us learn to walk before we fly, like Rogers, Maslow, Wilber, et al. to the dizzy heights of self-actualisation and autonomy.

Some client centered theorists abandoned the toolbox of therapeutic techniques and relied on the interpersonal encounter. (Fieldler's research shows that it doesn't matter which approach is used, either autonomous and humanistic or Psychodynamic, it is the interpersonal relationship that is the most significant element). As a result counselling, as a career, became available to anyone who had the time to do a few evening classes and hand in some minimal dissertation!

Empathy without challenge (Xref: therapeutics.1.2) is not a characteristic of Hypnotherapy today, even though the humanistic principles remain a cornerstone of the ideal therapeutic relationship.

Compare Rogers ideals of Client autonomy with Milton Ericksons "Utilization Approach" (Xref: therapeutics.1.3). He says:

"Suggestion can facilitate the utilization of abilites and potentials that already exist within a person ...

... but that remain undeveloped because of a lack of training or understanding ...

... we explore what life learnings, experiences and mental skills are available to deal with the problem".

Erickson has developed a process of therapeutic intervention which still uses the Rogerian thesis that the answer lies within the therapeutic repertory of the patient. N.L.P. and Life Coaching theorists emphasies this even further.

Gerard Egan introduced structure to the counselling agenda by listening to the clients story using a Rogerian approach. He would then clarify the story to identify the blind spots and then focus on these priorities and challenge them in order to provide leverage to help move forward towards the clients goal (Ref: The Skilled Helper).

Draft Design

2009-04-08T05:19:00.000-07:00

The Malvales - Stage 15; loosing the connection.

2009-03-26T04:25:00.000-07:00

Malvales - Sterculaceae and Tilaceae.

Sterculaceae::Theobroma cacao (Chocolate)

Euphoria or Affection quickly turning to irratation. Doesnt want any disturbance. Wants to get away, "I felt restricted, like being outside, roaming, free."

Then there is a sense of being alone in the world. Irritability and Aversion (cf. Abroma & Kola) becomes deep separation. Cured symptoms: "A desire to be in contact with the earth". "The separation I have always felt is gone, I feel a part of what's around". "The fear is gone".

Profile ...

Euphoria. Excitement (Joyous, Nervous). Wildness
Affectionate vs. Aversion (husband, children, company)
Irritability: Trifles. Towards children. When disturbed
Delusions/Feelings: Forsaken, Estranged, Alone or Separated.

Sensations: Awkward, heavy. Of being a wild animal.
Miasm: Shows Acute and Typhoid aspects.

Tilaceae::Tilia (Lime)

The state results from the loss of connection to a loved one, social life or even occupation. There is loneliness and much sadness. It can go very deep, especially if there is berevement.

Profile ...

Despair. Sad. Melancholy, disposed to weep
Ailments from disappointed love. Love sick.
Dread of society. Fear of company. Indifference.
Pleasure. Laughing, (cured Sx?).
Irritable. Censorious. Anger from contradiction
Fear of narrow spaces or entering a room. Being in the House agg.
Dreams of danger, fire, flood, black water.

The rubrics which point to the heart of Tilia are pleasure and love-sick. They imply the person is no longer happy because she has no love. Rajan gives connection as the theme of the Malvales. Loss of connection fits Tilia. The lost connection may be subconscious, as in the case below.

Case: Px had cosmetic surgery which did not please. She became sad and withdrawn. On taking Tilia 1M she found a connection to a suppresed part of herself - an extreemly angry subconsious part which was blaming her for having the procedure and ruining her social life.

She was able to connect with, love, and accept the accusing voice and integrate it back into her life. All the other Tilia Sx listed showed some improvement. The problem still exists, but she is no longer tearing (Carc!?) herself apart.

If we had considered anger - mistakes about or reproaching oneself as the center of the case we would'v ended up with some other 'solution', probably Aur-n-m or Thuja, which may have helped, but nothing in the repertory really comes close.

For me this highlights the benefits of struggling to gain a deep understanding of the plant families... not just on the level of sensation, but on the level of meaning.
Sensation: Detatched.
Miasm: Sycosis.

Comparative Extraction: Sterculaceae [choc, kola, abrom] vs. Tilaceae [tilia]

Consider how the themes of fragmentation or losing or achieving connection pervade the affect (mood) of these remedies.

Company (aversion) - choc kola til
Quarrelsome - choc kola til
Despair - choc kola til
Sadness - chol kola abrom til
Weeping - choc kola til
Thoughtful - kola til
Indifference - choc kola abrom til
Excitement - choc kola abrom
Laughing - choc kola abrom til
Irritability - choc kola abrom til
Dread - choc kola til

These themes pervade all the remedies of the Malvales.

Structural Homeopathy

Sickness during early pregnancy

Hypnotherapy script to evoke healing Soma

WHO - F60.1 Schizoid personality disorder

WHO - F60.0 Paranoid personality disorder

Remedies from the Garden - The Tiger Lily

Relationship between Sankaran's Sensation and the Doshas

Rasa (taste) and Virya (energy)

Introducing my friend Dendoraspis, the Black Mamba

A heart of Stone - Jade Proving Diary

Ayurveda - Vata: Aspects of Clarity and Awareness

The morning after

Ayurvedic Tridosha and Homeopathic Remedies

Deconstruction of Pulsatilla Doshas

Deconstruction of Staphisagria Doshas

Homeopathy vs. Ayurveda

Structuralism and the Plant Kingdom Vol II : Ericales

Conclusion: A proverb, "Malice drinketh its own poison".

Structuralism and the Plant Kingdom Vol1: The Monocots.

Lanthanides - clinical research

Stage 9 Elements (Cobalt, Rhodium, Europium and Iridium)

Cerium - Stage 4.

The Value of Provings in our understanding of remedies and disease.

Insecurity and Criticism in the Stage 2 Remedies

Commelinids:Liliales

Themes from the Synonym database: Lil-t: Arrogance. Sars: Capricious. Colch: Identity. Paris: Apprehensive.

Colchicum (Meadow Saffron)

Convallaria (Lily of the Valley) Boericke

Lilium Tigrinum (Tiger Lily)

Aloe (Aloe vera)

Trillium pendulum

Paris Quadrifolia (Trillaceae)

Sarsaparilla

Aletris (Colicroot) Boericke

Veratrum Album (Hellebore)

Sabadilla

Veratrum viride

Helonias Diociac (Devils bit) Boericke

Commelinids:Asparagales

Themes from the Synonym database: Iris and Vanil, Cheerful, Amative. Croc: Religious.

Look out for Dr.Sankarans Liliflorae Themes:

Forced out. Squeezed. Oppressed, constrained. Constricted. Excluded.

They hold on -> attractive behaviour to be included.

Allium cepa (Onion)

Allium Sativum (Garlic) Boericke

Asparagus

Hyancinthoides non-script (Agra or Scilla nutans - Bluebell)

Yucca

Crocus Sativus (Saffron) Boericke

Iris Versicolor (Blue flag)

Spiranthes (Ladies tresses)

Cypripedium (Ladies slipper)

Corallorhiza (Crawley root)

Dipodium puncatum (Hyacinth Orchid)

Vanilla aromatica