Ruta graveolens (Ruta) is useful for rheumatic and connective tissue problems, especially following chronic overuse, strain, or injury of joints or tendons. Small tendons of the eye may also be affected. The person complains of soreness and stiffness, sometimes of the whole body. Rising from a chair may be difficult and the affected joint can feel as though it will “give way”. Pain and stiffness is worsened by cold, damp weather, and lying on the affected part. Warmth and gentle movement eases them. Anxiety and panic attacks may be associated with chronic symptoms.
Eye Problems
- Eyestrain and headache from prolonged close work such as reading fine print or doing needlepoint.
- Stiffness, burning and redness of the eyes after overuse.
- Weakness and stiffness (e.g. when rising from a chair).
- Sore and bruised pains worse during damp weather.
- Painful nodules following injury to the surface of bones covered by thin skin, such the shin.
- Ganglions, bursitis, and tendonitis.
- Nodules on tendons.
- Injuries to tendons (e.g. tennis elbow)
- Back pain and sciatica which improve when lying.
- Following tooth extraction to prevent dry socket.
- Sprains and lameness.
ImportantWhile the above self-limiting, acute complaints are suitable for home treatment, see your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or fail to improve. Chronic or persistent complaints, which may or may not be mentioned, require a different treatment and dosage protocol so are best managed by a qualified homeopath for good results.
Dosage Instructions (suitable for babies to adults)Take one pill or five drops of the remedy every 1 to 4 hours (1 hour for intense symptoms, 4 hours for milder ones). Once an improvement is noticed, stop dosing and repeat the remedy only if symptoms return. If there is no improvement at all by three doses, choose a different remedy or seek professional guidance.