Generalities
Glandular induration as a result of contusion. Conium has acted very well even in mammary cancer which developed after a blow against the breast, in cancer of the lip after long-time pressure by a tobacco pipe, etc.
Lassitude and weakness, even amounting to fainting. A striking symptom is a tremulous weakness after every stool that ceases in the open air. ‘Sudden relaxation (a kind of paralytic weakness) while walking’ has also been cured by Conium. But usually the weakness will develop very slowly and deeply, as discussed above. ‘So weak that she has to lie down; sick and weary in the morning in bed, with ill-humour, sleepiness and pains in the stomach ’.
The paralytic states of Conium usually begin below and proceed upwards (as in Socrates’ death); this direction of development may also manifest in other Conium symptoms.
They are affected by cold and exertion.
Conium patients tend to have complaints from over-lifting.
They are particularly sensitive to complaints from walking in the open air where exertion and cold may combine: ‘Great liability to catch a cold, even in a room, after a walk in the open air, during which he had perspired’. ‘Walking in the open air makes her weary, and the air affects her’. Extreme exhaustion, sudden relaxation, ill humour and other complaints appear after walking in the open air.
Warmth will usually ameliorate, particularly warmth of the sun. ‘Chilly with trembling in all limbs, and therefore she has to remain constantly in the warmth of the sun’. Bright light, however, will often disturb the patient very much, and excessive photophobia is a striking symptom of Conium.
Two strange symptoms that can be understood as keynotes: