Oleander

Nerium oleander


Common Name(s)
Oleander, rose bay.
Origin
Native to the eastern Mediterranean or possibly farther east, as far as China, but now widely naturalized.
Background
The plant and its vapors are very toxic: in 1844, some soldiers died after eating meat roasted over a fire of oleander wood. In 19th-century southern Europe, bathing in an oleander decoction was a treatment for killing lice and fleas.
Preparation
The fresh leaves are gathered before flowering, chopped finely, and steeped in alcohol.

Remedy profile

Oleander is typically given to people with a dull, sad mental state. They are unable to think clearly, and lack self-confidence. Skin symptoms are the main focus for Oleander, and it may be used to treat dry, itching, flaking eruptions, especially on the scalp: dandruff, cradle cap, eczema, and psoriasis may all be helped. The skin is violently itchy and burning, as if it is being bitten by lice. The slightest friction on the skin causes soreness and chapping. There may be trembling and weakness, and symptoms are generally made worse by eating oranges and other citrus fruits.

Symptoms better: For scratching; for lying down.

Symptoms worse: For rubbing the affected area; for the friction of clothing on the affected area; for undressing; after breast-feeding.



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