Barium carbonate (also called witherite) is used to make the Baryta carb. remedy. Witherite was first discovered by William Withering in 1783. Medicinally, it was given for tuberculosis and glandular swellings. Barium is an element found in the earth's crust in minerals such as barite and witherite. It glows in the dark after heating and its compounds are used in radiology. It is also used to make fine glassware and optical glass. Baryta carb. is a homeopathic remedy primarily used in children and the elderly. It is used mainly in treating slow physical, intellectual, or emotional development. Both children and elderly people requiring Baryta carb. could be intellectually challenged. Children who need this remedy tend to be late walkers and talkers, with large heads. The genitals and other parts of the body may not have grown properly. They may suffer from short stature or Down's syndrome. Because they are susceptible to infection, they have acute, recurrent tonsillitis. Elderly people who require this remedy may have senile dementia or may have suffered a stroke with a possible handicap.