"The greatest wealth is health."  ~Virgil



Today's alternative remedy for your mental health is Ignatia.  Grown primarily
on the Philippine Islands, Ignatia has small oval fruit and grows on a vine.
It was named after a Jesuit priest, Saint Ignatius of Loyola. 

The seeds in this plant contain strychnine, a toxic alkaloid, that causes paralysis, muscle cramps and breathing problems. When extremely, diluted, however, it can support the nervous system. As a homeopathic medicine, Ignatia, in minute quantities can alleviate hypersensitivity, headaches, emotional and stomach distress and menstrual pain. Ignatia is prepared by taking the dried seeds from the plant and grinding them into a fine powder which is then added to alcohol or put into pill form.

Ignatia is an excellent remedy for those of us who are going through an emotional crisis, as it helps restore inner fortitude and self assurance. It is especially helpful if you are prone to depression and become sick after a romantic break-up, or are grief stricken from a loss, as it calms your frayed nerves. In addition to calming your nerves, Ignatia also helps to soothe your mind from disturbing thoughts and allows you to rest at night.
 
You are an Ignatia type if 4 of these statements fit you.
         
  • Do you sigh often and loudly? 
  • Do you cry suddenly, when alone?
  • Are your feelings worse when someone tries to calm you?
  • Have you had a deep loss and feel helpless due to your grief?
  • Do you have migraine headaches and stress driven intestinal ills?
  • Do you brood and keep your feelings to yourself?

If these symptoms are overwhelming and chronic, it is advisable for you to consult with your mental health practitioner, homeopathic physician, or health provider, as I have mentioned in my other blogs. In order to determine whether or not Ignatia can provide relief for you, your doctor will ask you questions such as the following.

Is it Better?
  • When resting on the affected side.
  • On a full stomach.
  • After switching positions.
  • When warm.

Is it Worse?
  • When pressure is applied on the unaffected side.
  • As you are being consoled.
  • Where there are strong tobacco odors.
  • With pent up emotions such as grief, fear or anger.

Stay tuned for the continuation of my series about homeopathic remedies for your mental health, I will be talking about Pulsatilla to help with Depression.



Reference

The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers,
     Pittsburgh, PA.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0NAH/is_3_29/ai_54189565
http://www.internethealthlibrary.com/hom-library/ignatia.htm