Scarcely anything is known concerning the physiological action of this remedy, as its pharmacology has not been determined. All statements made in this respect are the result of crudely conducted experiments or are taken from the drug's symptomatology; it is difficult to separate the clinical symptoms from those actually produced by the drug itself.

It is quite probable that Drosera produces the following effects: aching pains in the limbs, nausea and vomiting; spasmodic cough, like whooping-cough; animals to which the drug has been given develop a cough and the same symptoms have occurred in man. Enlargement of the mesenteric, submaxillary, and intestinal glands has been observed in cats, slowly poisoned with Drosera. Burdach states that in man, the juice produces shuddering, sense of constriction in the chest, sweat, and diminished secretion of urine. It undoubtedly exerts an irritating effect upon the upper respiratory tract.

Therapeutics

Drosera: This remedy suggests the symptom cough and more especially whooping-cough, to which disease Drosera is frequently applicable. In this condition drosera is indicated by a barking, deep sounding paroxysmal cough, coming in such frequent attacks as to cause catching of the breath. These attacks occur more particularly in the evening and after midnight, and are often accompanied by retching and vomiting.

In some cases of laryngeal phthisis when, with the deep sounding cough, hoarseness, tough mucous expectoration and an aggravation after midnight are present, Drosera may be found palliative.

Characteristic Symptoms Of Drosera

1. Dry spasmodic cough occurring in paroxysms, which follow each other so violently that he is scarcely able to get his breath, with inclination to vomit.

2. Rough, scraping, dry sensation deep in the fauces, and in soft palate, with deep hoarseness and oppression of the chest, causing difficult expiration.

3. Barking, deep sounding cough, worse after midnight especially.