Antimonium Crud.

Stibium sulphuratum nigrum syn. Antimonium crudum

Key Symptoms

sentimentality; dislike of being touched or looked at; insatiable appetite; thick, white coating on the tongue; digestive problems

Antimony occurs naturally in crystalline form as the mineral stibnite, which was used (as kohl) by women in ancient Rome and the Middle East as a cosmetic. Prepared chemically for various industrial purposes, it is often used to coat the tips of matches, since it ignites when struck against red phosphorus. The homeopathic remedy was proved by Hahnemann and his colleague, Caspari, in 1828. It is prescribed primarily for skin problems and digestive disorders.

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Remedy Profile

Antimonium crud. is associated with sentimental people who yearn for the past. They can be withdrawn, sulky, irritable people, prone to experiencing grief, serious depression, or despondency after a failed romance. They often dislike being touched or even spoken to. When ill, children who fit this profile cannot bear being looked at and have a tendency to cry. Both adults and children of this disposition may have insatiable appetites, yet in some cases there is a strong aversion to food, which can eventually lead to emaciation.

Typical physical symptoms include recurring digestive problems and the appearance of a thick, white coating on the tongue. The feet tend to be sensitive and prone to ailments such as corns and calluses, which make walking painful.

Antimonium crud. is typically prescribed for certain skin conditions and infections, as well as for toothaches, digestive problems, and gout.

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Skin & nail conditions

Symptoms: Calluses, warts, and corns that may form on the hands, under the fingernails (especially if the nails are damaged), on the soles of the feet, and on the tips of the toes. The skin may thicken, chap, or roughen easily, and cracked patches may form, particularly around the nostrils and the corners of the mouth. The nails may split repeatedly.

Symptoms better: For rest; in the evening.

Symptoms worse: For cold; for strong heat; for touch.

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Skin infections with a rash

Symptoms: A rash on the trunk, arms, and legs, inside the mouth or, in the case of chicken pox, behind the ears, with mild fever. There may be eczema, urticaria (hives), or rashes that resemble measles, with itching that becomes worse in a warm environment such as a bed. Fluid-filled blisters, often due to impetigo, may appear in patches, usually around the nose and mouth.

Symptoms better: For rest; in the evening.

Symptoms worse: For cold; for strong heat; for touch.

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Toothache

Symptoms: Persistent, gnawing toothache, usually caused by decaying teeth. The pain can extend to the head.

Symptoms better: For fresh air; for rest.

Symptoms worse: At night; for eating; for cold foods and drinks.

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Digestive disorders

Symptoms: Indigestion, with belching, nausea, and possibly vomiting of bile. The abdomen feels either bloated or empty, and stomach ulcers may have formed. Diarrhea alternates with constipation. The tongue has a thick, white coating, and there may be a headache. The digestion is highly sensitive, yet there may be cravings for sour foods that aggravate it, such as pickles, vinegar, and wine. Overindulgence and pregnancy often trigger the symptoms. The remedy is given to babies who vomit breast milk and will not suckle, or to their mothers.

Symptoms better: For rest.

Symptoms worse: During the night; for touch; for sour or starchy foods; for cold foods and drinks.

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Gout

Symptoms: Inflammation and redness in affected joints (often in the big toe). Joint pain impedes walking if the leg or foot are affected. A mild fever may set in, and there may be unease and restlessness, with tense and jumpy muscles.

Symptoms better: For rest.

Symptoms worse: For cold; for strong heat; for touch.

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