RAPHANUS

Homeopathy

RAPHANUS

Raphanus sativus var. niger
Black radish.

Key Uses:

Extreme abdominal distension

Postoperative pain

Origin : Native to southern Asia, but now widely cultivated worldwide.

Background : The ancient Romans used radish oil for skin diseases, and radish was a noted digestive stimulant in Chinese medicine by CE 659.

Preparation : The fresh roots, dug up in spring before flowering, are finely chopped and steeped in alcohol.

Remedy Profile : Those who benefit most from Raphanus may feel “collapsed” and lacking in spirit. The remedy has a strong affinity with the digestive tract, and is given for extreme abdominal distension. A classic use of Raphanus is for postoperative pain due to trapped gas, with gurgling and great swelling in the abdomen.

Symptoms Better : For walking in the open air.

Symptoms Worse : At night; for jarring; for coughing; for touch, even of the clothes; for laughing.