RHUS VEN

Homeopathy

RHUS VEN

Rhus venenata syn. R. vernix
Poison sumac, poison elder.

Key Uses:

Flaking, itching skin, possibly with patches of thickening or hardening, and a tendency for the skin to crack

Origin : Found throughout North America, from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.

Background : More toxic than poison ivy (see left), this plant produces a volatile oil that can cause inflamed, blistering lesions, possibly affecting the whole body.

Preparation : The young, leafy twigs are macerated in alcohol.

Remedy Profile : Gloomy, forgetful people are most likely to benefit from Rhus ven., particularly if they feel unable to connect ideas together and have no will for life.
The physical symptoms associated with this remedy are similar to those treated by Rhus tox., although the focus is more heavily on skin conditions. The classic symptom picture for Rhus ven. includes flaking, itching skin, possibly with patches of thickening or hardening, and a tendency for the skin to crack. All symptoms are markedly worse in the morning.

Symptoms Better : For open air; for hot baths; for gentle touch; for mild exercise.

Symptoms Worse : For damp weather; for getting wet; in the morning; for touch and pressure on the affected area; for rest; on waking.