Ruta

This remedy, which has already been mentioned as to its prominent action in the periosteum, especially in injuries and effects therefrom, also, like Arnica, has a “bruised, lame sensation all over as after a fall; worse in limbs and joints,” and also “all parts of the body upon which he lies are painful, as if bruised.” Like Rhus tox., the Ruta patient wants to change position frequently. The pains and lameness of Ruta seem to have a particular liking for the wrists. Here also must Eupat. perf. be remembered.

These pains in the wrists of Ruta are, like Rhus toxicod., < in cold, wet weather, and > on motion. There is no remedy oftener useful for eye-strain from close study, sewing, etc., than Ruta. The eyes feel weary and ache as if strained, or they burn like balls of fire. Two other remedies must be remembered for eye-strain, viz.: Natrum muriaticum and Senega. An understanding of these three remedies may save many cases of asthenopia or weakness of accommodation from the abuse of spectacles. Ruta is also one of our best remedies for prolapsus of the rectum.

Ignatia stands closest here. Both are < on stooping, lifting, or at stool. Muriatic acid and Podophyllum should also be remembered; with the former the prolapsed organ is very sore and sensitive to the least touch, even of the sheet on which he lies, and the rectum comes down even when urinating (Aloe). The prolapse of Podophyllum is almost always accompanied by the characteristic diarrhœa, but may be the result of strain by lifting, when the uterus may also prolapse. These uses of Ruta make it a very valuable remedy.