Colocynthis: Homeopathic Uses and Benefits

Educational information on traditional homeopathic use only. Not medical advice.

Colocynthis is a homeopathic remedy made from the bitter cucumber or bitter apple (Citrullus colocynthis). In homeopathic tradition it is the leading remedy picture for sharp, gripping, cramping pains that make a person bend double and press hard on the sore area, particularly when the pains follow anger or indignation.

Colocynthis quick facts

• Common name: bitter cucumber, bitter apple, colocynth.
• Source: the dried fruit pulp of Citrullus colocynthis, a trailing plant of dry regions. The raw pulp is intensely bitter and a strong purgative, so it is used only after homeopathic dilution.
• Potencies you will see: 6C and 30C for home use; Heel drops list D2 to D200; many combinations use D4 to D6.
• Who uses it: home-kit users following homeopathic tradition for cramp-type pains, and practitioners.

We stock Colocynthis in these products:

Buy Colocynthis HomaccordSpascupreelDiarrheel S Tablets

What is Colocynthis used for in homeopathy?

Traditionally it is associated with:

• Colicky abdominal pains that make the person double over for relief.
• Cramping that eases with firm pressure and warmth, or with drawing the knees up.
• Neuralgic pains, such as shooting pains along a nerve, and in particular sciatica-type pains on the Colocynthis Homaccord label.
• Complaints that follow anger or indignation, especially suppressed anger.
• Restlessness driven by pain, with the person twisting to find comfort.

This is the traditional remedy picture, offered for education. It is not a claim that Colocynthis treats any condition.

Where does Colocynthis come from?

The bitter apple is a vine of dry, sandy regions with round, yellow, melon-like fruits. The pulp has been known since ancient times as a harsh, bitter purgative, which is also why it is never used raw today. In homeopathy the fruit pulp is prepared, then diluted and succussed, giving a remedy that carries none of that material harshness. Classical homeopaths valued it for the very symptom the raw plant provokes: cutting, cramping colic.

Colocynthis 30C vs 200C

• 6C and 30C: the strengths usually chosen at home for short-lived, everyday complaints.
• 200C and above: generally chosen with a practitioner who looks at the whole picture.

We make no claim that a higher potency is stronger or better. We do not stock a single-remedy Colocynthis at the time of writing, so check with a practitioner if you want a specific potency.

Dosage as traditionally used (our products)

• Colocynthis Homaccord Drops: in general 10 drops 3 times daily; in acute disorders initially 10 drops every 15 minutes over up to two hours. Contains alcohol (35 vol.-%).
• Spascupreel: tablets, 1 tablet under the tongue 3 times daily; ampoules 1 ampoule 1-3 times weekly. Listed for spasms and cramps.
• Diarrheel S Tablets: in general 1 tablet under the tongue 3 times daily; in acute disorders 1 tablet every 15 minutes over up to two hours.
• Nux Vomica Homaccord Drops: 10 drops 3 times daily; in acute disorders initially every 15 minutes over up to two hours.

Always follow the label on the pack.

Products that contain Colocynthis

• Colocynthis Homaccord: Citrullus colocynthis in several potencies with Gnaphalium; listed for neuralgia, in particular sciatica, and lumbar osteochondrosis.
• Spascupreel: Citrullus colocynthis D4 with Veratrum, Atropinum, Magnesium phosphoricum and Chamomilla among others; listed for spasms and cramps.
• Diarrheel S Tablets: Colocynthis D6 with Veratrum, Podophyllum and Argentum nitricum.
• Berberis-Homaccord Ampoules: Colocynthis and Veratrum with Berberis; listed for irritation of the urinary and bile tract.
• Nux Vomica Homaccord: Colocynthis with Nux vomica, Bryonia and Lycopodium.
• Dr. Reckeweg R4 Drops: Colocynthis D6 among its ingredients.

How does Colocynthis differ from similar remedies?

• Versus Magnesia phosphorica: both are described as relieved by warmth and pressure. Magnesia phos is the spasm remedy with shooting pains; Colocynthis is the doubling-over, anger-linked picture.
• Versus Chamomilla: Chamomilla is the intensely irritable, cannot-bear-pain picture.
• Versus Nux Vomica: Nux vomica suits overindulgence and irritability with a constipated, strained feeling.
• Versus Cuprum metallicum: Cuprum is the violent muscle-cramp picture, typically in the calves and hands.

Who should avoid it, and when to see a doctor

• Severe, sudden or persistent abdominal pain, pain with fever, vomiting, a rigid abdomen, or blood in stools needs urgent medical attention.
• Sciatica with numbness, weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control is an emergency.
• Period pain that is new or severe should be checked by a doctor.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding, or giving it to babies and children? Ask your practitioner first.
• Drops contain alcohol; tablets may contain lactose.

Frequently asked questions

What is Colocynthis used for in homeopathy?

Traditionally for cramping, colicky pains relieved by bending double and firm pressure, neuralgic pains, and complaints that follow anger. Not a treatment or cure.

What is Colocynthis 30C used for?

The 30C is a potency traditionally chosen for home use in short-term situations. We do not stock a single-remedy 30C.

Why is anger linked with Colocynthis?

It is part of the classic remedy picture: pains that follow indignation or suppressed anger. This is a homeopathic tradition and not a medical finding.

Is Colocynthis safe?

Raw bitter apple is a harsh purgative and is never used raw. Homeopathic preparations are highly diluted. Follow the label and see a doctor for anything severe.

Colocynthis or Magnesia phosphorica?

Both are traditional cramp remedies. Colocynthis is the doubling-over, anger-linked picture; Magnesia phos is the shooting, spasm-type picture.

Can I use Colocynthis for sciatica?

Colocynthis Homaccord is listed for neuralgia, in particular sciatica. Sciatica should be assessed by a doctor first, especially if there is weakness or numbness.

Keep reading

• Magnesia Phosphorica: Homeopathic Uses and Benefits
• Chamomilla: Homeopathic Uses and Benefits
• Cuprum Metallicum: Homeopathic Uses and Benefits
• Spascupreel for Stomach Cramps, Colic and a Gripey Gut
• Natural Remedies for Painful Period Cramps Without Painkillers

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Homeopathic medicines are not a substitute for medical care.