Epiphegus

Virginiana. Beech Drops. Cancer-root. N. O. Orobanchaceæ. (A slender branching herb without leaves, of a dull purple or yellow-brown colour growing as a parasite on the roots of beech-trees. - H. R ., iv. 10.) Tincture of whole fresh plant in full flower.

Clinical

Cancer / Diarrhœa / Gonorrhœa / Headache / Palpitation / Salivation

Characteristics

The Orobanche family to which Epiphegus belongs is nearest to the Scrophulariaceæ in botanical features. In addition to the name of " cancer-root " it is also called " clap-root " and " flux-plant," showing the virtues with which it is popularly accredited. Its homœopathic use has been almost exclusively confined to the treatment of headaches of the neurasthenic type, brought on by any extra exertion, relieved by a good sleep. The pain is pressing from within outward. A very characteristic symptom is: "Constantly wants to spit, saliva viscid;" when this symptom occurs in connection with a headache Epiphegus will almost certainly cure. It is said to have entered into the composition of "Martin's Cancer powder," and has been used by eclectics as a local application in obstinate ulcers and aphthæ. Symptoms take the direction: Right to left; right upper, left lower. Right temple more affected than left. It has been used mostly in the 3x potency. It has been proved by Dr. Ralf Morden. Dr. S. A. Jones has been chiefly instrumental in defining its place in therapeutics. I have cured with it many cases of headache, some of them desperately severe. The conditions are: < from working in open air; from rising up in bed; > from a good sleep.

Relations

It is allied to the Scrophulariaceæ. Compare: Phos. in., > from sleep (Lach., Sulph., and Nat. mur. have the opposite . < from sleep . in the most marked degree); Fagus.

Causation

Physical or nervous over-strain. Any unusual exertion or excitement, as going on a visit, or doing a day's shopping.

1. Mind

Makes wrong letters or words in writing. Fears death from palpitation of heart. Fears injury to her health from the drug.

2. Head

Pain in temples; mostly in r.; in forehead; pressing from without inward; piercing pains; fulness; pain coming on suddenly; scalp feels tight during headache.

3. Eyes

Smarting. Could not read because the words seemed to be blurred.

8. Mouth

Saliva viscid. Almost constant desire to spit. Sticky viscid taste in mouth. Bitter taste.

11. Stomach

Nausea.

13. Stool

Stool passed with difficulty though fæces soft.

19. Heart

Palpitation which makes her feel very weak.

22. Upper Limbs

Pain in l. shoulder.

23. Lower Limbs

Pain in l. knee.

24. Generalities

Languid feeling.