Pulsatilla is a lovely remedy to have on hand. Many people know it for it’s very distinct emotional state, but let’s look at the versatility of this remedy.
First, some basic information:
- Full Latin name: Pulsatilla nigricans
- Abbreviation: Puls.
- Common name: Wind Flower
- Keynote: Changeable
My family has gone through stages of needing this remedy. There have been times where at least a couple of my children will need it for a few days in a row to help calm them down and recalibrate emotionally. I like it in a 6C for us, especially if I’m dosing for the “fussies”. But I will also use a 30C for myself when the issue is more related to the digestive symptoms.
Mind (Mental Symptoms)
As I noted above for the keynote, Pulsatilla is best known for helping those who keep changing. They change their moods in a flash, change their minds and can’t decide, and even their symptoms can change suddenly throughout an illness.
Someone in need of Pulsatilla will crave company to a fault. They want someone constantly nearby to feel sorry for them or to provide support when they are ailing. In acute situations, if someone starts to be needy in this way, that is a good clue that the remedy could help the physical symptoms as well.
Another common use for Pulsatilla is for those who have feelings of abandonment or have experienced an actual abandonment in their life. This trauma or these feelings are what drive the need to constantly have someone nearby. This may have been an actual event, like a child’s parents getting divorced, or it could be a thought process (“this person doesn’t love me unless they are right here with me”).
Body (Physical Symptoms)
Pulsatilla is a lovely women’s remedy. Men can have the emotional and changeable states mentioned, but experience tells us that women struggle with this more often. A good example of this working well for women is during menstruation. If the weepiness and loneliness is a part of the PMS picture, this remedy could also work for any physical suffering as well. Try taking a 6C twice a day in the week leading up to the cycle.
Another for-women-only way to use this remedy is in pregnancy. Pulsatilla has a wonderful track record for helping babies to get in the head-down position towards the end of pregnancy. There are many opinions from many homeopaths on how to do this. I have had personal success using only a 6C (3 doses) but many homeopaths swear that a 200C is needed (2 doses in one day). A woman knows her own body and sensitivity so I suggest simply choosing your potency and trying it out. I would wait until 36-37 weeks before trying this so that baby is more likely to stay in the correct position until delivery.
There is one very prominent symptom that Pulsatilla could be of benefit for all people – men, women, and children – and that is worse fatty foods. If you experience indigestion or a turning stomach after ingesting ice cream, pastries, or fried food, Pulsatilla could be just the thing you need.
Pulsatilla is also widely known for its need to be in the fresh air. If the room feels stuffy and you just have to open a window or go out and stand in the breeze, think of this potentized Wind Flower to match your need for the wind.
Heart (Emotional Symptoms)
Pulsatilla is one of the remedies I have used the most for emotional imbalances. This remedy should come to mind if someone is being very clingy and just wants you to be with them constantly. If a loved one is not feeling well and asking you to stay nearby is a new thing for them, Pulsatilla could be of great benefit.
Think of the baby who loves to cuddle. She just wants to be in your arms constantly and is completely content there. The moment you put her down she acts as if you’ve done the worst thing you could have done to her. And then as soon as you pick her up, she’s back to love and cuddles! Granted, this is a description of Pulsatilla in babies, but, honestly, these symptoms can show up in adults and remind you of babies ;).
This could also be a great remedy for moms to have on hand in the post-partum phase. If mom is very emotional and having a lot of ups and downs, a couple doses of a 6C could be beneficial. This can also help regulate the mood at the return of menses.
Here’s a quick dosing tip to take with you:
Like I said earlier, we have been through phases of needing Pulsatilla in our house. And writing about it has convinced me we may be needing it again. The change of schedules, seasons, and hours of sunlight seems to put a little stress on the youngest of us, resulting in many of the symptoms I just described. Excuse me as I go find my Pulsatilla.
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