China

Peruvian bark, the source of quinine and of Hahnemann's first experiment, linked with weakness after fluid loss, bloating and recurring fevers.

China officinalis is Peruvian bark, from Cinchona trees of the coffee family native to the Andean forests of South America and later grown in India and Java. The bark is the source of quinine, long used against malaria, and Hahnemann's experiments with it led him to the principle of homoeopathy.

Homoeopaths traditionally use it for exhaustion after the loss of body fluids, such as heavy bleeding, diarrhoea or long illness, with ringing in the ears and sensitivity to draughts. It is also associated with bloating and wind that passing gas does not relieve, poor appetite, and complaints that return at regular intervals.

• Weakness after illness
• Bloating and wind
• Recurring fevers
• Ringing in ears
• Poor appetite