Hyoscyamus

Henbane

Hyoscyamus niger

Henbane was advocated by the Greek physician Dioscorides in the 1st century CE as a painkiller and soporific. The Latin name comes from the Greek hys, "pig," and kyamos, "bean"- perhaps because pigs are not poisoned by eating it, while humans are. It was the method by which Shakespeare had Hamlet's father murdered, and the famous Dr. Crippen used henbane to murder his wife. Hyoscyamus, proved by Hahnemann in 1805, is used for emotional disorders and coughs.

Hyoscyamus is the best remedy for those with paranoid traits and behavioral problems. The typical Hyoscyamus pattern is incoherent, excited behavior, muttering, and obscene sexual exhibitionism. Laughter at inappropriate times is common, as is a sense of being ostracized in a private world.

In addition, Hyoscyamus is used for physical conditions associated with involuntary twitching, such as delirium, and for fits of dry coughing. Homeopaths may prescribe it for certain types of convulsions, such as petit mal, epilepsy, and, in children, febrile convulsions with a rapid rise in temperature. In some cases, the remedy may be given for schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease, if accompanied by marked withdrawal, obscenity, and inappropriate laughter.

Uses

It was used in orthodox medicine as a sedative, painkiller, and anticonvulsant. The extracted medication, hyoscine, is still used as an antispasmodic in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Hyoscyamus is used for emotional problems, such as jealousy, suspicion, and paranoia. People who need this remedy may feel that they are being poisoned or watched, and that others are out to deceive or trick them. They may feel like outsiders and either be very talkative or silent for hours, just sitting and staring. The remedy is also given for dry, spasmodic coughs, epilepsy, and other conditions, in which twitching, jerking, and cramps occur.

Behavioral problems - violent outbursts and a desire to shock, with behavior ranging from simple foolishness to shameless sexual exhibitionism. Characteristic impulses are to appear naked, masturbate, and handle the genitals. Lewdness, promiscuity, or an erotic obsession may develop. Jealousy is common, and in children is often due to a new baby in the family.

Delirium - twitching, starts, and facial grimaces, with the typical Hyoscyamus mental state. Mania is possible, triggered by fever, addiction, brain injury, or the trauma of childbirth. Despite a meager flow, there may be a frequent desire to urinate. Constant fumbling with the hands or clothing is common. There may be convulsions, possibly with involuntary urination.

Cough - dry, spasmodic, tickly cough. Suffocating fits of coughing trigger spasms severe enough to cause doubling over and coughing up of blood.