Phytolacca Homeopathy: Uses and Benefits

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

Phytolacca is a homeopathic remedy made from pokeweed (Phytolacca americana, also known as Phytolacca decandra). In homeopathic tradition it is best known for sore, dusky-red throats with pain that shoots to the ears on swallowing, for swollen and tender glands, and for hard, tender breasts. It is used as part of self-care and is not a replacement for a diagnosis or for medical care.

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Phytolacca at a glance

• Common name: pokeweed (also poke root).
• Source: a tall perennial plant of North America with dark berries; the root and berries are potentised in the homeopathic way.
• Potencies you will see: low potencies such as 6C and 30C in pillules, and D-potency ampoules and combination products.
• Who uses it: home users and practitioners who follow the throat, glandular and breast picture described below.

What is Phytolacca traditionally used for?

Classical homeopathic texts link Phytolacca with the throat, the glands and the fibrous tissues. The traditional picture includes:

• a sore throat that looks dark or fiery red, with pain that travels to the ears when swallowing, especially warm drinks;
• swollen, tender glands, particularly around the neck;
• breasts that feel hard and tender, and a traditional link to breast-feeding discomfort;
• aching, shifting muscular pains that seem to move about, with a heavy, bruised and restless feeling.

Our Heel Phytolacca Injeel forte S page describes it as traditionally associated with inflammation of the tonsillar ring, glandular swelling, and disorders of the female breast, and with muscular rheumatism and sciatic neuralgia. These are traditional associations, not claims that the product will treat any of them.

30C vs 200C: which potency?

For general home use, the lower potencies (6C and 30C) are the ones most often chosen, and they are the usual starting point in the homeopathic tradition. 200C is a higher potency and is more often chosen with the guidance of an experienced homeopath. The ampoule we stock combines several potencies (D4, D12, D30 and D200) in one vial, so it does not require you to choose between them yourself.

Traditional dosage as printed on our product pages

• Phytolacca Injeel forte S Ampoules: supplied as 1.1 ml ampoules. Take by mouth, directly or in water. A general guideline is the contents of one ampoule 1 to 3 times weekly; in acute situations it may be used more frequently, or as directed. Other methods of use, including injection (i.m., s.c., i.d., i.v.), are for trained individuals, e.g. practitioners.
• Angin-Heel Tablets: adults and children 6 years plus, 1 tablet dissolved completely in the mouth 3 times daily or as directed by a physician; children up to 6 years, half the adult dose. In acute cases the page says tablets can be taken every 15 minutes over 2 hours.
• Vinceel Throat Spray: adults and children 12 years and older, one spray every half hour, up to 12 times daily.

Products we stock that contain Phytolacca

• Phytolacca Injeel forte S Ampoules (Heel): the single remedy. Each 1.1 ml ampoule contains Phytolacca americana D4, D12, D30 and D200.
• Angin-Heel Tablets (Heel): a combination that lists Phytolacca 4X among Echinacea, Bryonia, Chamomilla, Hepar sulfuris, Lachesis, Rhus toxicodendron and Thuja.
• Vinceel Throat Spray, 20 ml (Heel): a spray listing Phytolacca Decandra 3X with Calendula, Plantago, Salvia, Belladonna, Echinacea and Apis.
• Echinacea Compositum (Heel): a broader combination that includes Phytolacca americana.

Who should avoid it?

Pokeweed in its raw plant form is toxic, and the homeopathic remedy is made by repeated dilution, but you should still read each label. Ask a qualified practitioner before use during pregnancy or breast-feeding, and before giving it to babies or young children. Combination products contain other ingredients: Angin-Heel contains lactose, and Echinacea Compositum carries cautions for people allergic to the daisy (Composite) family. A sore throat that is severe, lasts more than a few days, or comes with difficulty breathing or swallowing needs medical attention, and so does any new breast lump or lasting breast change.

How is Phytolacca different from similar remedies?

In classical homeopathic comparison, Belladonna is the remedy for a bright red, hot throat of sudden onset, whereas Phytolacca is the dusky, darker-red throat with ear pain and glandular swelling. Mercurius is associated with a throat with heavy salivation and a metallic taste, and Hepar sulfuris with a splinter-like pain and sensitivity to cold air. These are traditional distinctions used by homeopaths when matching a picture, not diagnostic tests.

Frequently asked questions

What is Phytolacca used for in homeopathy?

In homeopathic tradition Phytolacca is associated with sore throats that shoot to the ears, swollen tender glands and hard, tender breasts. It is used within self-care and is not a treatment for any diagnosed condition.

What is Phytolacca used for (para que sirve)?

Para que sirve Phytolacca: in homeopathy it is traditionally used for dark red sore throats with ear pain, glandular swelling and breast tenderness. See a health professional if symptoms are serious or lasting.

What is Phytolacca homeopathic medicine made from?

It is made from pokeweed, Phytolacca americana (also called Phytolacca decandra), prepared by serial dilution and succussion.

Which potency of Phytolacca is typical, 30C or 200C?

Low potencies such as 6C and 30C are the usual choice for home use. 200C is a higher potency usually chosen with the guidance of a homeopath.

How is Phytolacca Injeel forte S taken?

Our product page gives a general guideline of the contents of one ampoule by mouth, 1 to 3 times weekly, or more frequently in acute situations or as directed.

Can children or pregnant women use Phytolacca?

Ask your practitioner first. Homeopathic remedies are not a substitute for medical care, and a child or pregnant woman with a sore throat that is severe or persistent should see a doctor.

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Homeopathic medicines are not a substitute for medical care.