Lycopodium, or Lycopodium clavatum, is an herb known by many names, including club moss, running pine, ground pine, lamb’s tail, fox tail, and vegetable sulphur. The lycopodium plant has been used medicinally since the Middle Ages, and lycopodium in homeopathy is still widely administered by herbalists for a wide range of physical, mental and emotional ailments. Among the many uses of lycopodium in homeopathy are the treatment of nausea, constipation, emotional problems, breathing problems and headaches.
Since the 17th century, lycopodium has been prescribed to treat problems with the liver, gallbladder, urinary and digestive tracts. Lycopodium in homeopathy is effective in relieving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea and vomiting, indigestion and bloated abdomen. It also can relieve symptoms of gas, cramping, excessive flatulence, constipation and bleeding hemorrhoids. Lycopodium is also beneficial as a preventive measure when taken after eating foods known to enhance the production of gas, such as beans or cabbage. This herb has also proven helpful for men who suffer from an enlarged prostate and patients who pass sand-like sediments in urine because of kidney stones or genital herpes.
Often prescribed for emotional problems such as anxiety, panic attacks and nervousness, lycopodium typically is effective for people who project an outward self-confidence but who are actually terrified of failing. These include sufferers of stage fright and those who fear public speaking or performing. Lycopodium in homeopathy has been used for other mental and emotional insecurities, such as the fear of being alone, fears of the dark, sleepwalking/talking, insomnia and certain sleep disorders.
This herb is frequently used as a treatment for people who suffer from fears of commitment. Such people ultimately fear change and tend to avoid forging close relationships because they bring with them unwanted responsibilities. These people often suffer sexual problems as a result: low libido or extreme promiscuity, frigidity, premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction are not uncommon. All of these symptoms responded favorably to properly prescribed doses of lycopodium.
The use of lycopodium in homeopathy is known to prevent and heal many types of chest infections and breathing problems. The plant's spores are useful for soothing dry, tickling coughs and sore throats. Lycopodium also helps labored breathing that worsens when the patient lies on his or her back and clears congestion of the respiratory system.
Homeopaths often recommend this herb for relief from neuralgia-type headaches, particularly those occurring on the right side; chronic fatigue syndrome; and exhaustion distinguished by flu-like symptoms. Additionally, lycopodium in homeopathy a useful treatment for a variety of hair and skin conditions. These conditions include dandruff, hair loss, and psoriasis.
As with any homeopathic treatment, it is important that a patient follows his or her homeopathic doctor's prescribed dosage exactly in order for the treatment to be safe and effective. There are no reported side effects of using lycopodium when taken as directed. Care should be taken when taking or storing a homeopathic remedy such as lycopodium.
One should not eat or drink anything other than water for at least 15 minutes before and immediately after taking a homeopathic treatment. Patients should avoid coffee, alcohol, carbonated drinks, red meat, chocolates and rich, spicy foods when using a homeopathic medicine, because these might interfere with the herb's potency. All homeopathic remedies should be kept away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight and should be stored in a cool, dry place.
