Allium Cepa
Overview:
Allium cepa, one of our polychrest medicines was first introduced by Dr Constantine Hering on September 15, 1847.
The common name of Allium cepa is ‘onion’; known
everywhere in the world and we Indians commonly call it ‘piyaz’.
Onion has been known all over the world, both as food and
medicine, although it may have started its travel from central Asia, Egyptians were
using it as early as 3200 BC and in our country, Charak was using it during ‘120 –
162 AD’ It has been used as an ayurvedic medicine from the very beginning. [1]
A
L
L
I
U
M
C
E
P
A
A
Acrid discharges:
The hallmark of Allium cepa is its acrid nasal discharge that burns and excoriates the upper lip and nostrils. This is in stark contrast to the tears, which are profuse but bland. This symptom is a key differentiator for Allium cepa and is often a strong indicator for its use. [1]
(Murphy, Robin. Homeopathic Remedy Guide. 15th ed., Lotus Health Institute, 2008.)
L
Left-sided
Symptoms often begin on the left side of the body, particularly with the coryza or neuralgic pains. While it can start on the left and move to the right, the left-sided tendency is a notable characteristic of this remedy. [1]
(Murphy, Robin. Homeopathic Remedy Guide. 15th ed., Lotus Health Institute, 2008.)
L
Laryngitis with hoarseness:
Allium cepa is indicated for laryngitis with hoarseness and a raw, sore feeling in the larynx. There may be a tickling cough that worsens in the warm room and in the evening. The voice may be husky or lost altogether.[2]
(Vermeulen, Frans. Concordant Materia Medica. Emryss bv Publishers, 2000.)
I
Irritability:
Individuals needing Allium cepa often exhibit tearfulness and irritability, particularly when suffering from a cold. This emotional state is often coupled with the physical symptoms, creating a picture of distress and discomfort. [1]
(Murphy, Robin. Homeopathic Remedy Guide. 15th ed., Lotus Health Institute, 2008.)
U
Upper respiratory symptoms:
Allium cepa is a prominent remedy for upper respiratory tract infections, particularly coryza. The nasal discharge is copious, watery, and acrid, often accompanied by violent sneezing. There may be a feeling of fullness in the head and frontal sinuses.[3]
(Hering, Constantine. The Guiding Symptoms of Our Materia Medica. 10 vols., B. Jain Publishers, 1983.)
M
Modalities:
Understanding the modalities is essential for accurate prescribing. Allium cepa is typically worse in warm rooms and in the evening. Conversely, symptoms improve in open air and cold temperatures. This sensitivity to warmth is a distinguishing feature.[3]
Hering, Constantine. The Guiding Symptoms of Our Materia Medica. 10 vols., B. Jain Publishers, 1983.)
C
Cold sensitivity:
Those who benefit from Allium cepa are prone to catching colds, especially after becoming overheated. This susceptibility to colds, combined with the characteristic acrid nasal discharge, strengthens the indication for this remedy. [3]
(Hering, Constantine. The Guiding Symptoms of Our Materia Medica. 10 vols., B. Jain Publishers, 1983.)
E
Eye symptoms:
Allium cepa produces burning and watering eyes with profuse, bland tears that do not irritate the skin. This is a unique and paradoxical symptom. Photophobia may also be present. [1]
(Murphy, Robin. Homeopathic Remedy Guide. 15th ed., Lotus Health Institute, 2008.)
P
Pain:
Allium cepa is well-suited for neuralgic pains that are burning, stinging, or shooting in character. These pains often affect the face, head, and neck, and are aggravated by warmth and in the evening.[3]
(Hering, Constantine. The Guiding Symptoms of Our Materia Medica. 10 vols., B. Jain Publishers, 1983.)
A
Amelioration in open air:
A key characteristic of Allium cepa is the marked amelioration of symptoms in fresh, cool air. This desire for open air is a strong confirming symptom for its use.[2]
(Vermeulen, Frans. Concordant Materia Medica. Emryss bv Publishers, 2000.)
O
N
I
O
N
O
O – Overwhelmed
The Allium cepa person may find it difficult to cope with stress and may become easily overstimulated. [4]
(Boericke’s Materia Medica)
N
N – Nervous
The apprehension and fear indicate an underlying nervousness. The person may be easily startled, anxious, and find it hard to relax. This nervousness may manifest as fidgeting, restlessness, or difficulty concentrating. [4]
(Boericke’s Materia Medica)
I
I – Irritable
This is a key feature of the Allium cepa mental state. Irritability can range from mild annoyance to outbursts of anger. The person may have a low tolerance for frustration and be easily provoked. [4]
(Boericke’s Materia Medica)
O
O – Offended easily
As mentioned before, this sensitivity extends to the emotional realm. The Allium cepa individual may be easily hurt or offended by perceived slights, criticism, or rejection. This can lead to social withdrawal or difficulty maintaining relationships. [4]
(Boericke’s Materia Medica)
N
N – Negative
While not explicitly stated, the apprehension, fear, and irritability can create a negative outlook. The person may tend to focus on the worst-case scenarios and have difficulty seeing the positive side of things. This negativity can contribute to feelings of sadness and hopelessness. [4]
(Boericke’s Materia Medica)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Introduction
Constitution
Clinical
Mental Symptoms
Guiding Symptoms
Characteristic
Therapeutic Value
Modality
Remedy Relationship
Dose
Reference
Terminology
Also Search As
Introduction
Introduction of Allium Cepa:
Common name
- Onion [9]
Synonyms
- Onion [9]
Family / Group / Class / Order
- Liliaceae [9]
Habit and habitat / Description
- It is found all over the world and is very common in India, It is an annual plant, cultivated throughout our country during the winter season for food. It is a small vegetable plant with a rounded bulb of many concentric coats. [9]
Name of prover
- Dr Constantine Hering in 1847 [9]
Introduction and history
- Allium cepa, one of our polychrest medicines was first introduced by Dr Constantine Hering on September 15, 1847. [9]
Parts used
- Fresh red bulb. [9]
Active principles
- The chemical composition of onion is organic sulphides, cotechol and protocatechnic acid, essential oils as allyl propyl disulphide, etc. and active principles as glycollic acid, etc. It also contains the highest percentage of ammonia. [9]
Preparation
- The mother tincture is prepared from the fresh red bulb. [9]
Constitution
Constitution of Allium Cepa:
Physical make up
- Tired patient, Aching throughout the body with a strong desire for raw onion. [9]
Temperament
- Melancholic [9]
Relation with heat & cold
- Hot patient [9]
Miasm
- Psora [9]
Clinical
Clinical conditions of Allium Cepa
Sites of action / Pharmacodynamics
- Eyes, nose, mucous membrane,
larynx, throat, respiratory tract, veins, nerves, stomach and intestines. [9]
Causation (Causes / Ailments from)
- Getting wet, cold damp winds, by eating salad, cucumber,
exposure to damp north-western cold air, by trauma, amputation, etc [9]
Physiological action
- Its physiological properties are to be noted like, stimulant, diuretic,
expectorant, aphrodisiac, emmenagogue and germicidal. - It can reduce flatulence, cholesterol and arrest dysentery, influenza, gout,
inflammation, anaemia, jaundice, malarial fever, splenomegaly, insomnia,
ear ache, hyperglycaemia, etc. - It acts on the mucous membrane of eyes and nose, and produces bland
lachrymation with acrid coryza and sneezing. [9]
Mental Symptoms
Characteristic Mental Symptoms of Allium Cepa (psychology)
Patient is very melancholic and anxious.
Fears that the pain may become intolerable.
Tearfulness :This can be triggered by seemingly minor things and is often out of proportion to the situation.
Easily upset: Those requiring Allium cepa are easily upset and offended.
Anxiety/Agitation :A state of anxiety and agitation may accompany the physical symptoms.
Restlessness: Restlessness is a common feature of Allium cepa.
Absent mindedness and confusion of mind, after wine or coffee in the afternoon; with irritation of the brain
Dreams of battles, fights, precipices or being let down into wells.
Dreams of being near water, of high waves; vexation, in convalescence.
Fear that she would become disturbed from pain in the supporting fingers.
Insanity, passive. Does not recognize familiar people, indifferent to them. Foolish behaviour.
Guiding Symptoms
Guiding Symptoms of Allium Cepa
Generalities
It is a left sided medicine; symptoms start from the left side and go to the right side. [4]
Head
Catarrhal headache, mostly in forehead; WORSE IN WARM ROOM towards evening. Thread-like pains in face. Headache ceases during menses; returns when flow disappears.[4]
Eye
Red. Much BURNING and smarting lachrymation. SENSITIVE TO LIGHT. Eyes suffused and watery; profuse; BLAND lachrymation, better in open air. Burning in eyelids. [4]
Ears
Earache, shooting in eustachian tube. [4]
Nose
Sneezing, especially when entering a warm room. COPIOUS, WATERY AND EXTREMELY ACRID DISCHARGE. Feeling of a lump at root of nose. Hay-fever. [SABAD.; SIL.; PSOR.] Fluent coryza with headache, cough, and hoarseness. Polypus. [4]
Face
Paralysis of the left half of the face, which is also somewhat noticed in the limbs of the same side, together with altogether too copious secretion of urine. [5]
Mouth
Dryness of mouth, root of tongue, soft palate and throat. Bad odor from the mouth or throat. [6]
Throat
Sensation as of a ball in the throat. Tough mucus in the fauces and throat. Numb feeling in posterior wall of pharynx.[6]
Stomach
Canine hunger. Pain in pyloric region. Thirst. Belching. Nausea. [4]
Abdomen
Rumbling, offensive flatus. Pains in left hypogastrium. Colic sitting, moving about. [4]
Rectum & Anus
Diarrhoea with very offensive flatus. Stitches in rectum; itching and rhagades in anus. Glowing heat in rectum. [4]
Stool
Very offensive flatus. Diarrhoea after midnight, or toward morning.Constipation, following intermittents treated by quinine. Rhagades at the anus. [6]
Urinary Organ
Sensation of weakness in bladder and urethra. Increased secretion of urine with coryza. Urine red with much pressure and burning in urethra. [4]
Sexual Organ
Male Sexual Organ: Increased sexual desire. After coitus pain in bladder and prostate gland. Drawing in the spermatic cord. Burning in the glans.
Female Sexual Organ:
Pain in uterine region. In childbed, panaritia on several fingers, with red streaks up the arm, pains driving to despair. [6]
Respiratory System
HOARSENESS. HACKING COUGH ON INSPIRING COLD AIR. TICKLING IN LARYNX. SENSATION AS IF LARYNX IS SPLIT OR TORN. OPPRESSED BREATHING from pressure in middle of chest. Constricted feeling in region of epiglottis. Pain extending to ear. [4]
Heart & Pulse
Pulse more frequent and full; or, slow and hard.[6]
Neck & Back
Creepings in the back; after sitting, pain under the right shoulder-blade. Pain in small of back, if the bowels did not move. [6]
Extremities
Lousy joints. Ulcers on heel. Painful affections of fingers about nails. Neuralgia of stump. Bad effects from getting feet wet. Limbs, especially arms, feel sore and tired. [4]
Skin
Pricking as from pins. Redness of the skin. Nettle-rash on the thighs. [6]
Sleep
Yawning with headache and drowsiness. Gaping in deep sleep. Dreams. Wakes at 2 a.m. [4]
Fever
Pulse full and accelerated. Heat, with rumbling in the abdomen, coryza, and thirst. Flitting heat over whole body, and thirst. Coldness alternates with heat during catarrh. Sweats easily and copiously. [7]
Characteristic
Important characteristic features of Allium Cepa
Keynotes / Redline
- Profuse watery and acrid nasal discharge with profuse bland lachrymation.
- Severe cough seems to split and tear the larynx, compels the patient to grasp larynx.
- Shooting pains as fine as a thread following amputation or injury to nerves or other surgical operations.
- Headache ceases during menses, returns when flow disappears. [8]
Guiding
- LEFT SIDED MEDICINE. Symptoms go from left to right.
- DESIRE FOR RAW ONIONS (Cub).
- Nasal polyps (Sang, Psor, Mar-v, Teucr).
- COPIOUS URINE with coryza.
- Food and drinks: desires onions; aversion to cucumbers. [8]
PQRS
- Sneezing: Unbearable sneezing and catarrah is the characteristic of this
medicine, particularly when going into a warm room. - Coryza: Profuse, watery, acrid discharge from the nose and bland, profuse,
watery discharge form eyes is the characteristic of Allium cepa. - Left-sidedness: It is a left sided medicine; symptoms start from the left side
and go to the right side. - Rawness and excoriation: Rawness all over the body, in the nose, larynx
and throat; nasal discharge is acrid and excoriating. - Pains: Neuralgic type of pains, thread-like in head, chest, neck and face
- Desire: Strong desire for raw onion.Desire: Strong desire for raw onion. [9]
Confirmatory
- Profuse watery and acrid nasal discharge with profuse bland lachrymation. [8]
Nucleus symptoms
- Profuse watery discharges.
- Excoriating nasal discharge with bland lachrymation.
- Sneezing.
- Left sidedness.
- Thread like pains. [8]
Therapeutic Value
Modality
Modality of Allium Cepa
Aggravation:
Warm room, in the evening and by sitting. [9]
Amelioration:
By moving, in a cold room, open air, etc. [9]
Remedy Relationship
Remedy Relationship of Allium Cepa
Complimentary
Phos, Puls, Sars, Thuj. [8]
Follows Well
Calc, Sil. [8]
Inimical
All-s, Aloe, Squil. [8]
Antidoted By
Arn, Cham, Nux-v, Thuj, Verat. [8]
Comparison
Acon, All-s, Aloe, Chlor, Conv, Ip, Lach, Lil-t, Squil. [8]
Dose
Dose
3 to 30 potencies are commonly used. [9]
Potency
3x, 6x, 12x, 30, 200, 1000. [9]
Duration of Action
1 Day. [8]
Reference
Reference of Allium Cepa
- Murphy, Robin. Homeopathic Remedy Guide. 15th ed., Lotus Health Institute, 2008.
- Vermeulen, Frans. Concordant Materia Medica. Emryss bv Publishers, 2000.
- Hering, Constantine. The Guiding Symptoms of Our Materia Medica. 10 vols., B. Jain Publishers, 1983.
- Materia Medica By Boericke W.
- Characteristics Of The Homoeopathic Materia Medica By Douglass M.E.
- Condensed Materia Medica By Hering C.
- Dictionary Of Practical Materia Medica (All 3 Vol.) By Clarke J. H.
- Hompath Zomeo Ultimate Pro LAN_ Allium cepa_ Keynote.
- Textbook of homoeopathic materia medica by Dr. J. D. Patil
Terminology
Terminology:
General Botanical Terms:
- Allium: The genus name for onion, garlic, chives, and leeks.
- Cepa: The species name for the common onion.
- Bulb: The underground storage organ of the onion plant, consisting of fleshy modified leaves.
- Cultivar: A plant variety that has been produced in cultivation by selective breeding.
- Scape: A long, leafless flower stalk rising from the base of the plant.
- Inflorescence: The flowering part of the plant.
- Umbel: A type of inflorescence where the flower stalks arise from a common point, like the spokes of an umbrella.
Phytochemicals and Compounds:
- Flavonoids: A diverse group of phytonutrients found in many plants, including onions. Quercetin is a major flavonoid in onions.
- Organosulfur compounds: These give onions their characteristic pungent flavor and aroma and have potential health benefits. Examples include allicin, thiosulfinates, and sulfoxides.
- Thiosulfinates: A group of organosulfur compounds formed when onions are cut or crushed, contributing to their pungent odor and potential health benefits.
- Allicin: A major thiosulfinate formed when onions are cut, known for its antimicrobial and potential health-promoting properties.
Potential Health Effects:
- Antioxidant: A substance that inhibits oxidation and protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation in the body.
- Antimicrobial: Having the ability to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms.
- Cardiovascular health: Relating to the heart and blood vessels.
- Anticancer: Having properties that help prevent or inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Other Terms:
- Germination: The process of a seed sprouting and beginning to grow.
- Yield: The amount of produce harvested from a plant or crop.
- Pungency: The sharpness or intensity of the onion’s flavor.
- Bolting: When a plant prematurely produces a flower stalk, often triggered by environmental conditions.
Homeopathic Principles:
- Like cures like: This is the fundamental principle of homeopathy, stating that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can cure similar symptoms in a sick person.
- Provings: These are systematic tests on healthy individuals to determine the symptoms a substance can produce. This information guides the homeopathic use of the substance.
- Repertory: A comprehensive index of symptoms and the remedies associated with them.
- Materia Medica: A detailed compilation of homeopathic remedies, including their origins, preparation, and symptom pictures.
- Potency: Refers to the dilution and succussion (shaking) process a substance undergoes during homeopathic preparation. Higher potencies are more diluted.
- Aggravation: A temporary worsening of symptoms after taking a remedy, often seen as a positive sign that the remedy is working.
Symptoms and Modalities:
- Acute: Conditions with a sudden onset and short duration.
- Chronic: Long-lasting or recurring conditions.
- Modalities: Factors that make symptoms better or worse (e.g., time of day, weather, temperature, position).
- Discharge: Secretions from the body, such as nasal discharge or tears.
- Burning: A sensation of heat or intense irritation.
- Acrid: A sharp, irritating, or biting quality, often describing discharges.
- Bland: Mild and non-irritating.
- Coryza: Inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane, commonly known as a cold.
Allium Cepa Specific Symptoms:
- Lacrimation: Excessive tearing, often burning and acrid.
- Rhinorrhea: Runny nose, with a clear and acrid discharge that irritates the nostrils.
- Sneezing: Involuntary expulsion of air from the nose and mouth.
- Cough: A sudden expulsion of air from the lungs.
- Hoarseness: A change in voice quality, often rough or raspy.
- Headache: Pain in the head.
- Photophobia: Sensitivity to light.
Examples in Context:
- "Allium cepa is indicated for acute coryza with acrid, burning nasal discharge and bland lacrimation."
- "The modalities of Allium cepa include aggravation from warm rooms and amelioration from open air."
- "Provings of Allium cepa have revealed symptoms such as headache, cough, and hoarseness."
By understanding these terminologies, you’ll be better equipped to navigate homeopathic articles and resources related to Allium cepa and its uses.
Also Search As
Also Search As:
Allium cepa is the scientific name for the common onion. There are many ways to search for information about it, depending on what you’re looking for. Here are a few ideas:
General Information
- Wikipedia: A good starting point for basic information about the onion, its history, cultivation, and uses. Search "Allium cepa" on Wikipedia.
- Google Search: Just typing "Allium cepa" into Google will give you a wide range of results, including websites, images, and videos.
- Online Encyclopedias: Websites like Britannica.com or Encyclopedia.com can provide more in-depth information.
Scientific Information
- Google Scholar: This search engine focuses on scholarly literature, including articles and books. You can find research papers on Allium cepa’s genetics, chemistry, and medicinal properties.
- PubMed: A database of biomedical literature, including studies on the health effects of onions.
- Plant Databases: Websites like the CABI Compendium or the Native Plant Trust provide detailed botanical information about Allium cepa.
Gardening Information
- Gardening Websites and Blogs: Many websites and blogs offer advice on growing onions, including planting, care, and pest control.
- Seed Catalogs: Companies that sell onion seeds or sets often have information about different varieties and their characteristics.
- Extension Offices: Your local university extension office can provide region-specific growing advice.
Culinary Information
- Recipe Websites: Websites like Allrecipes or Epicurious have countless recipes that feature onions.
- Cookbooks: Many cookbooks focus on specific cuisines or cooking techniques and can provide inspiration for using onions in your cooking.
- Food Blogs: Food bloggers often share their own recipes and tips for cooking with onions.
Tips for Effective Searching:
- Use specific keywords: Instead of just searching "Allium cepa," try adding terms like "health benefits," "cultivation," or "recipes."
- Use scientific names: When searching for scientific information, using the scientific name "Allium cepa" will give you more accurate results.
- Combine search terms: You can combine different keywords to narrow down your search. For example, "Allium cepa medicinal properties."
- Use advanced search operators: Google and other search engines offer advanced search operators that can help you refine your search. For example, you can use quotation marks to search for an exact phrase or use a minus sign to exclude certain terms.
By using a combination of these resources and search strategies, you can find a wealth of information about Allium cepa.
Specialized Homeopathic Databases:
- Homeopathic Library: This online resource has a vast collection of homeopathic journals, books, and materia medica. You can search for "Allium cepa" and filter for articles.
- Hahnemann Online: A comprehensive database with full-text access to many homeopathic journals. Search for "Allium cepa" along with keywords like "case study" or "clinical trial."
General Medical Databases with Homeopathy Filters:
- PubMed: While primarily focused on conventional medicine, PubMed includes some homeopathic research. Use the search term "Allium cepa" and combine it with "homeopathy" to narrow down results.
- Google Scholar: You can find articles on Google Scholar by searching for "Allium cepa homeopathy." Be sure to evaluate the source’s credibility.
Homeopathic Journals:
- The American Homeopath: A peer-reviewed journal publishing original research and clinical cases. You might find articles specifically on Allium cepa.
- Homeopathy: The journal of the Faculty of Homeopathy. Search their archives for relevant articles.
- Simillimum: The Journal of the Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians.
Materia Medica:
- Online Materia Medica: Many websites offer detailed information about homeopathic remedies, including Allium cepa. Look for sections on clinical indications and key symptoms.
- Books: Classic homeopathic materia medica texts like those by Boericke, Kent, or Clarke will have entries on Allium cepa.
Organizations:
- National Center for Homeopathy: Their website may have articles or links to resources on Allium cepa.
- Homeopathic Educational Services: This organization offers courses and publishes materials that may include information on specific remedies.
Tips for Effective Searching:
- Use specific keywords: Combine "Allium cepa" with terms like "colds," "cough," "allergies," or specific symptoms to find relevant articles.
- Look for case studies: These often provide detailed accounts of how Allium cepa was used in clinical practice.
- Consider the source’s credibility: Ensure the information comes from reputable homeopathic journals or organizations.
What is Allium Cepa used for in homeopathy?
Definition:
Allium cepa derived from the common onion, is a homeopathic remedy primarily known for its effectiveness in relieving symptoms of the common cold, hay fever, and allergies. It’s particularly indicated when there’s a burning, acrid nasal discharge with watery eyes.
What are the key symptoms that indicate Allium Cepa is needed?
Key Symptoms
Think of a runny nose with a burning discharge that irritates the nostrils and upper lip. The person may have watery eyes, but the tears don’t irritate the skin. They might also have a cough that worsens in a warm room.
How is Allium Cepa different from other cold remedies?
The burning, acrid nature of the nasal discharge and the fact that the tears are bland are distinctive features of Allium cepa. This contrasts with Euphrasia, where the eyes are burning and the nasal discharge is bland.
Can Allium Cepa be used for children?
Yes,
Allium cepa is often a safe and effective remedy for children with colds and coughs, especially when they have the characteristic burning nasal discharge. However, it’s essential to consult a qualified homeopath for the appropriate dosage and potency.
Are there any side effects of Allium Cepa?
No,
Homeopathic remedies are generally safe when used correctly. However, it’s always best to consult a homeopath before using any remedy, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any existing health conditions.
How do I take Allium Cepa?
Desclaimer: Consult a Homeopathic consultant
Allium cepa is typically available in pellet or liquid form. A homeopath will determine the appropriate potency and dosage based on your individual symptoms.
Are there any remedies that are often complementary to Allium cepa?
Yes,
Depending on the specific symptoms, remedies like Pulsatilla, Euphrasia, or Arsenicum album may be used in conjunction with Allium cepa.
Is Allium Cepa safe for everyone?
While generally safe, it’s crucial to consult a qualified homeopath before using any homeopathic remedy, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have existing health conditions, or are taking other medications.
Can Allium Cepa replace conventional medicine for colds and allergies?
It’s important to remember that homeopathy is a complementary approach. It can be used alongside conventional medicine but should not replace it, especially in severe cases. Always consult with your doctor for serious health concerns.
How quickly can I expect to see results from Allium cepa?
The response time to homeopathic remedies varies from person to person.
Some people may experience relief within hours, while others may take a few days to notice improvement. Factors that can influence response time include the individual’s overall health, the severity of symptoms, and how well the remedy matches their specific case.
