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Ignatia amara derives from the seed pods of the St Ignatius' bean tree, which contain strychnine, a substance that is poisonous in large quantities. Like all homeopathic medicines, commercially available ignatia amara contains only minute amounts of the source medicine. Homeopathic doctors may prescribe ignatia amara to treat depression and grief, headaches and difficulties with concentration.

Worsening Of Original Symptoms

Homeopathic physicians consider a temporary period of feeling worse after taking ignatia amara as a sign the drug is working. Homeopathic remedies contain highly diluted versions of the substances that cause the original illness. By encouraging the symptoms of the disease, the remedy stimulates the body's immune response, thereby restoring health.

Insomnia

Using the wrong remedy can result in the body's immune system misfiring, triggering symptoms such as insomnia. If sleeplessness persists, discontinuing the use of ignatia amara will restore the body to balance.

Nausea

Like insomnia, nausea can result if ignatia amara is not the appropriate drug to treat your symptoms. If you have trouble with nausea after taking ignatia amara, consult your doctor or naturopath immediately. She may ask you a series of questions to determine if there is another cause for the nausea, or she may recommend a different treatment.