Poison as Medicine

“All things are poison, and nothing is without poison; the dosage alone makes it so a thing is not a poison”.

Paracelsus, 1538

“Poison as Medicine” is a metaphor for our inner struggles—those parts of ourselves we avoid, suppress, or fear because we think they might overwhelm us. It speaks to the fact that it is often these hidden parts of ourselves that, in the correct “dose,” can provide needed balance and change within the psyche.

We all know of people who struggle to express anger and who have been taught and shaped to believe that anger isn’t acceptable. It could be anger wasn’t valued in the family’s religion or beliefs as “girls should be sweet.” This kind of person goes to great lengths to avoid upsetting anyone, causing significant anxiety. They suppress qualities like assertiveness and self-interest due to societal pressure to always be “nice” and prioritize others. Interestingly, these hidden traits, their shadow, hold the key to their healing. Correct doses of anger can enable boundary-setting, speaking up for oneself, independent thinking and self-care, which can help them overcome their suffering.

The transformational theme of “Poison as Medicine” also appears in various fairy tales. For example, in the story of Snow White, while she seems lifeless, in her mouth she is holding the poisoned apple piece that triggers a profound transformation. When she awakens, she’s no longer the naive maiden. She rejects deception and embraces her anger and power. The idea of poison leading to change is also present in the story of “Sleeping Beauty,” when a curse puts the princess into a deep sleep when she pricks her finger on a spindle. Paradoxically, this curse leads to her awakening and transforms her kingdom. The Little Red Riding Hood tale involves a young girl who encounters a wolf in the woods. Through her encounter with the wolf, she learns to trust her instincts and becomes more cautious. This story teaches the importance of self-awareness and the potential for growth through facing danger or adversity.

These stories remind us of the potential for growth, self-acceptance, and empowerment within us when we confront and integrate our suppressed aspects, even if they seem like “poison” at first glance.