Arsenicum in Homeopathy: When Order Heals Fear

Nora Pettik
Oct 24
3 min read

Arsenicum in Homeopathy is a major remedy known for its depth and versatility. Whether dealing with acute digestive upsets or chronic emotional disturbances, this remedy offers a clear and consistent symptom picture. It is often indicated in patients with a high level of anxiety, obsessive neatness, and burning sensations. The individual may seek control over their environment to reduce the internal sense of threat or insecurity they constantly feel. In this article, we’ll dive into the keynotes, physical and mental symptoms, and perspectives from contemporary and classical homeopaths to understand the full scope of Arsenicum Album’s healing potential.

Key symptoms of Arsenicum

Great anxiety about health and security
Restlessness, especially at night
Desire for company, but irritable when consoled
Burning pains, better by heat
Great prostration with rapid sinking of vitality
Thirst for small sips of water
Worse at midnight or after midnight
Fastidiousness, obsession with cleanliness and order
Alternating states of hope and despair
Chilly, extremely sensitive to cold

Physical Symptoms

Gastrointestinal tract:
Commonly indicated in cases of food poisoning, diarrhea, vomiting, and indigestion. The typical keynote is “burning pains better by heat.”
Respiratory system:
Used in asthma, bronchitis, and even pneumonia when symptoms include difficulty breathing, wheezing, and burning in the chest.
Skin conditions:
Eczema, urticaria, psoriasis with dry, scaly, burning eruptions.
(more eczema remedies here)
Cardiovascular complaints:
Palpitations, anxiety-driven heart symptoms, and general weakness.
General weakness:
The person often feels exhausted, especially after the slightest exertion.

What is the difference between acute and chronic prescribing?

Emotional and Mental Symptoms

Fear of death, especially when alone at night. (more remedies for fear here)
Deep insecurity about health, finances, and future.
Controlling behavior, stemming from fear of chaos or deterioration.
Suspicion and mistrust: Difficulties in trusting others, often seen in chronic conditions.
Perfectionism and obsessive traits: Cleanliness and organization become coping mechanisms.
Despair alternating with hope: A conflicted inner state where one swings between confidence and deep pessimism.

"Arsenicum fears decay and chaos, and tries to prevent it by controlling every detail."

(Jan Scholten, Homeopathy and the Elements.)

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Clinical Applications

Arsenicum Album is a polychrest, meaning it has wide applicability across many conditions. It is especially beneficial in cases involving:

Food poisoning or acute gastroenteritis
Asthma and allergic reactions
Chronic fatigue with mental restlessness
Emotional conditions related to fear, insecurity, and obsessive tendencies

How to collect a whole symptom picture?

Arsenicum Album in Homeopathy: When to Consider It

This remedy is well-suited for individuals who are anxious, restless, chilly, and perfectionist. They often present with burning pains, a desire for company, but are also irritable when approached. The core emotion is fear: whether of death, disease, poverty, or losing control. Arsenicum patients seek reassurance but struggle to accept it.