Veratrum alb (white hellebore)

As an effective general remedy for copious diarrhea, Veratrum has secured a place in household kits. As one of homeopathy's many 'poly crest' remedies, Veratrum addresses the whole individual and thus its applications are more extensive, especially for certain individuals.

   Veratrum’s gastric complaints center on bouts of violent diarrhea that may have simultaneous vomiting, extreme cramping, burning and cutting pain, cold hands and feet, leg cramps, extreme fatigue and a large appetite that does not relieve the hollow sensation inside. Its diarrhea may pass involuntarily with gas, and result from constipation, too much fruit, stomach flu or tainted food. Hot drinks, gentle walking or being carried (for babies), may bring some relief, but real exertion makes everything feel worse.

     Choosing between Arsenicum and Veratrum in gastric cases can be difficult. Both treat violent vomiting and diarrhea, burning pain, collapsing fatigue, cold extremities, etc., but Arsenicum complaints almost always begin around midnight, have extreme restlessness, and feel hotter to the touch than Veratrum. 

     Whether due to gastric complaints or other illness, Veratrum can add support for cases of great dizzying fatigue with pale bluish face, cold breath, cold sweat, chills and oddly enough a thirst for ice cold drinks, ice cream, cold fruit and salty foods. If the same coldness accompanies a deep hollow cough with loud breathing, tightness in chest, Veratrum may be the key. Its often nauseating sick headaches have a sensation of coldness as well– like an ice cube on your head or a cold wind passing through.

     In women, it can ease cramping pain, coldness before and during their typically profuse periods which may be fraught with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea; similar distress during pregnancy applies as well. 

     As for the individuals who can get the most from Veratrum, their mental/emotional state can vary between being withdrawn, brooding, inactive, indifferent and silent or being frenzied with excitement, extremely talkative, fun, bright, busy or full of religious fervor or self conceit. They can be haughty, critical, ambitious and persistent, with a desire to be successful and a great awareness of social position. These qualities can grow to great proportions (especially religious mania) with loss of social position. Children needing Veratrum most tend to be lively and precocious (full of philosophical questions); they can become hyperactive, rude and hard to control.

It's modalities (what makes symptoms feel better or worse) include: Better hot drinks, Better gentle walking, Better being carried (babies), Worse for exertion