Coccus cacti

The cough of Coccus cacti comes in paroxysms which may be quite violent and last for up to half an hour at a time. The cough may be so violent as to prevent speech. A tickling in the larynx and throat triggers the cough.

It may be a dry cough but is more commonly associated with a large quantity of thick mucus. This mucus may be described as viscous, albuminous, tenacious, ropy or hang in strings (Kali-bi) and is usually clear or white. The bringing up of this thick mucus, together with the violence of the paroxysm, may trigger vomiting (Ipecac).

It is a winter cough, perhaps lasting the whole season. So this remedy is not really a first aid remedy, it may be prescribed when symptoms have persisted for too long.

What makes it worse?

• Lying down

• Heat of the bed, warm rooms, warm food and drink

• On waking in the morning – 6am

• 11.30pm

• Cold exposure

• Rinsing out the mouth as in brushing teeth

What makes it better?

• Washing in cold water

• Cold or open air

• Cold drinks or food

What is peculiar?

• Expectoration of a great quantity of thick mucus

• Coldness in the back.

• Burning as of pepper in nostrils, tip of tongue

Concomitants

• Urinary system symptoms