American Materia Medica, Therapeutics and Pharmacognosy

correcting the brain phenomena.
It has an antispasmodic influence, preventing spasms when induced by
cerebral engorgement, or irritation which is of reflex origin or caused by
gastric or intestinal irritation, the characteristic indications for the
remedy being present. Webster says he values it more highly than
gelsemium or lobelia in infantile convulsions, if its indications are
present.
In gastro-intestinal disturbances accompanying the inflammatory
conditions over which rhus has an especial influence, this agent is a
direct sedative. It arrests nervous and reflex vomiting promptly, and
vomiting from any cause when the tongue is pointed with reddened tip
and edges. The so-called “strawberry tip” directly suggests rhus. In acute
abdominal pain, in cholera morbus, with extreme vomiting and
spasmodic pain, this agent is valuable.
In local inflammations, induration and swelling tending to suppuration,
as of boils, felons and carbuncle, the indications point to this remedy,
and given internally its influence is often excellent. In ulcerations with
red areas and red edges, in scrofulous indurations and ulcerations, it is
useful. In eczematous and erythematous conditions it is of value. It is of
service in parotitis and in inflammation of the sub-maxillary glands.
This agent must be used continually, and the prescriber must familiarize
himself with all its side influences before he can fully appreciate its great
value.
In pruritus of the vulva or other localities where there is erythema, with
redness, persistent in some cases, especially with blonde children with
eczematous tendencies, or children of a scrofulous diathesis, this agent
is most prompt and valuable.
There is a form of eczema, usually acute in character with the
inflammatory evidences of burning, redness, itching, and perhaps
swelling, that rhus will quickly cure. The homeopathist advises it for
these in the second decimal dilution, five drops every two hours.
In any skin disease where there is violent itching, circumscribed
redness, burning, swelling, pain and vesication, especially if fever be
present, the condition more or less acute as above mentioned in
erysipelas or other skin disorders, this remedy is prescribed with success.
Ellingwood’s American Materia Medica, Therapeutics and Pharmacognosy - Page 380