Baptisia Tinctoria

Where are the original studies in Baptisia found ?

In North American Journal of Homoeopathy , Vol. V. and VII. ; Hale's New Remedies ; Monthly Homoeopathic Review , 1872.

What is Baptisia ?

It is the Wild Indigo .

What part is used and how is the tincture prepared ?

The fresh root with its bark. The tincture is prepared in the same manner as described under Gelsemium .

What is its general action ?

The influence of this drug is shown by its effects on the blood, where it sets up a disorganizing process, tending to putrescence, similar to that seen in low fevers. It produces great prostration, and also ulceration of the mucous membranes.

In what disease do we find it most indicated and what are its indications ?

Typhoid conditions.

The patient's mind wanders, he is restless and disturbed ; he cannot sleep, and he thinks he is double or scattered about and he must move to get his pieces together again ; there is great prostration ; the back and limbs ache, and the patient feels bruised and tired all over ; he is weak and faint.

How does the face look ?

It has a heavy, besotted look, as if drunken ; the eyes are stupid and heavy.

What other symptoms would still further indicate Baptisia in typhoid fever ?

High temperature and pulse, tenderness in the ilio-caecal region, yellow offensive stools, patient may be in a stupor and fall asleep while answering questions ; brown, dark streak through the centre of the tongue ; all exhalations are offensive, sordes on the teeth, fetid breath, offensive urine and sweat.

How does Gelsemium compare with Baptisia in typhoid fever ?

1. Both have muscular soreness and prostration.

2. Both have drowsiness and nervous excitement.

3. Both have feeling of expansion as if head and body were large.