Side Effects of Lycopodium Use
The homeopathic remedy Lycopodium clavatum is generally used for a variety of acute and chronic conditions. Lycopodium is a great remedy for healing liver and gallbladder problems, and helps all kinds of digestive disorders. It is also used to help people suffering from issues of self-esteem. It is generally well tolerated in appropriate doses and potencies, with no adverse effects when taken according to directions. However, it may cause side effects if taken too frequently. Homeopathic remedies are prescribed for each individual on a unique basis, so there is no standard dose or potency. A qualified homeopathic practitioner should be consulted before using Lycopodium.
Gastrointestinal
Common effects of taking too much Lycopodium are digestive disorders, belching, hiccuping, coughing, acid reflux, pain in the right side of the torso near the liver or gallbladder, gallstones, hepatitis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. Also reported by "Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines" is a desire for hot drinks and a craving for sweets. The remedy may cause intestinal gas, which causes bloating and pressure felt more strongly after eating.
Satiety and Appetite
When taking Lycopodium, the appetite may become confused, whereby a person may be ravenously hungry, but feel full after consuming only a very small amount of foodl. Or the person may eat a large meal and then have a ravenous appetite for more food a short time later. Lycopodium in too high a dose may cause an aversion to meat, and digestive upsets caused by eating oysters, cabbage, onions and milk.
Emotional/Metal Effects
The book "Synoptic Materia Medica I" points out that Lycopodium may cause lack of self-confidence, feelings of inferiority and insecurity, and the possibility of a person developing bullying behavior which acts like a cover-up for these feelings of being "lesser-than." A person may be bossy, dominating and downright nasty to those who know him best, like family, yet act meek and fearful in public. The remedy may cause a fear of public speaking and even the inability to stand up for oneself in a conflict.
Odd Sensations
When taking Lycopodium, you may feel as though one foot is hot while the other is cold, according to William Boericke, in his book "Materia Medica and Repertory."
Allergies
It has been reported that some people have experienced sensitivities or allergies to shell fish when taking this remedy. Swelling, redness and itching around the mouth or throat, and painful tenderness of the right breast may be present. Stop taking the remedy if you experience these symptoms.
Right Side Modality
Boericke points out that in most cases, too much Lycopodium causes a strong modality with reference to symptoms and side effects being felt more strongly on the right side, or starting on the right moving to the left, with the right side always feeling worse. This applies to all bodily systems, such as sore throats or pain in the musculoskeletal system.
Time of Day
Effects of Lycopodium are felt most strongly between 4 and 8 p.m., and also during the night. In other words, all side effects and symptoms are worse at these hours of the day and night.
