In this episode of Homeopathy 247, Mary is joined by Ciara Corcoran to explore the well-known remedy Bryonia. Often summed up as the "bear with a sore head," Bryonia is deeply associated with dryness, irritability, and the need to keep still. Ciara explains how these themes appear in both physical and emotional symptoms, making Bryonia a valuable remedy to keep in your home kit.

First Impressions of Bryonia

When Ciara first learned about Bryonia, she wasn't keen on it. It seemed grumpy, irritable, and hard to relate to. But as she studied it more, she realised how versatile it is. Far from being just an "irritable" remedy, Bryonia has a wide range of uses in acute illness and beyond.

Key Physical Clues

The hallmark of Bryonia is dryness. This can show up as:

• Dry coughs
• Dry fevers
• Dry mucous membranes
• Constipation with hard, dry stools

Another key sign is the need to stay still. Any movement—whether turning in bed, walking, or even moving the eyes—can make symptoms worse. People needing Bryonia may lie quietly, preferring not to be disturbed.

Pain and Pressure

A unique feature of Bryonia is that pain often feels better with pressure. Someone with a painful chest cough might hold their ribs tightly, or a person with joint pain may press on the area for relief. This response is an important differentiator when choosing a remedy.

Emotional Picture

When unwell, Bryonia people want peace and space. They may come across as irritable or even snappy if interrupted. Unlike remedies such as Pulsatilla, which seek comfort and company, Bryonia types often say, "Leave me alone." On a deeper level, Bryonia can reflect strong fears around financial security and risk-taking. Just as they resist movement physically, emotionally they may resist taking chances in life.

Common Uses for Bryonia

• Headaches: Often bursting, left-sided, worse from movement, and aggravated by coughing.
• Coughs: Dry, painful, sometimes with the sensation of broken ribs, relieved by holding the chest.
• Fevers: Typically dry, with intense thirst.
• Vertigo: A sinking sensation, worse on moving the head.
• Constipation: Dry, hard stools linked to overall body dryness.

Why Keep Bryonia Handy?

Ciara explains that Bryonia often helps move people from one stage of illness to the next. It's particularly useful in colds, coughs, flu, and was one of the most used remedies during recent waves of respiratory viruses. Her advice: if you're unsure, remember these three signposts—dryness, irritability, and not wanting to move.  

Important links mentioned in this episode:

Read more about Ciara Corcoran: https://homeopathy247.com/professional-homeopaths-team/ciara-corcoran/

Visit Ciara's website: https://what-remedy.com/  

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