Mezereum

Daphne mezereum


Common Name(s)
Mezereon, spurge olive.
Origin
Native to Eurasia and found in North America, Europe, and north Africa.
Background
Herbalists in northern Europe once used the plant to treat skin ulcers and cancers, but today mezereon is considered too toxic for common use.
Preparation
The fresh bark, gathered just before the plant blooms, is chopped and steeped in alcohol.

Remedy profile

Mezereum is most appropriate for people who are prone to despondency, apathy, and detachment. They have a tendency toward hypochondria.

Key conditions associated with this remedy are suppurating skin complaints that form a thick crust or cause cracking. Skin symptoms typically affect the scalp, usually manifesting as eczema or psoriasis with oozing discharge that smells offensive and causes the hair to mat. Eruptions on the face are usually around the hairline or eyebrows. The skin is intensely itchy, and may feel cold and clammy. The remedy is also used for shingles affecting the chest.

Neuralgic pains around the teeth or face, and bone pains in the long bones, are also usually linked with Mezereum. Symptoms include erratic, jerking, sharp pains, and a sensation of lightness or enlargement in the body.

In addition Mezereum is prescribed for digestive system disorders that are anxiety-related and involve symptoms such as diarrhea and a discharge from the anus.

Symptoms better: For open air; for eating.

Symptoms worse: At night; for lying down; for the warmth of the bed; if skin eruptions are suppressed by ointments; for drafts; for movement; for touch.