Originally published in the March/April 2007 Fisique newsletter. Portrait of a Remedy: Lachesis Lachesis muta In this third installment of the NSOL remedy series, we'll be examining Lachesis. This remedy is prepared from venom of the Brazilian bushmaster snake. Native to South America, these snakes are considered masters of the jungle. They typically measure between 2 and 2.5 meters in length, and some specimens have been found to measure almost four meters. Despite being sensitive and shy, they are known to chase and attack when angered, as few other snakes will. Reports on the potency of the bushmaster's venom are mixed, which may be due to the fact that captive snakes produce weaker venom. Survival rates from a bite are estimated to be 1 in 5 with most victims dying from massive internal bleeding. In homeopathy, Lachesis types are known for their intensity. Often quick-witted and sharp-tongued, they may be talkative, prone to displaying jealousy and suspicion of others. They are highly intelligent; concepts are grasped quickly and a solution is worked out while others are just getting started, sometimes resulting in impatience towards others. This type is well aware of others' weaknesses and their sarcastic comments can be cutting to even the closest friends. Internally, Lachesis experiences a sort of duality, a struggle against self. This may result in emotional extremes, happy cheerfulness in one moment, followed by impatience and cynicism. Many Lachesis types are introverted. They appear sweet and gentle to others and internalize their intense emotions. If emotional outlets are too few, the type may develop paranoia, anxiety, or phobias. Periods of inner conflict are not uncommon for most people; however, it is the intensity, prolonged duration (may be lifelong), and awareness of the conflict that differentiates the Lachesis type. The resulting feeling is internalized as a sort of guilt or shame, gnawing at the person and thereby aggravating the state. Lachesis types are most alert in the evening, often requiring little sleep. In fact, sleep and naps are likely to aggravate symptoms. There is an extreme sensitivity to heat, again, aggravating all symptoms and may also trigger palpitations or blinding headaches, often behind the left eye. Conversely, symptoms are ameliorated by cool water or air. Along with chronic headaches marked by pain at the root of the nose, palpitations and heat flushes are common. Often helpful at menopause, Lachesis is a great hormonal remedy for with intense PMS before their period and that are completely relieved by the onset of their menses. All symptoms are better from discharges. There is a strong intolerance to tight collars, or any bands around the waist. You will never catch these folks wearing a turtleneck! Touch or pressure to aggravated areas is also intolerable and their skin may have a purplish hue. Like the other remedies in the NSOL series, Lachesis represents a basic human emotion. This remedy may be included in the daily dropper to gently promote the release of stored shame and guilt. Often the emotions are unconscious, having been suppressed since childhood. By bringing unconscious patterns into your conscious awareness, emotional resolution and alleviation of physical symptoms is possible.