The Origins of Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a system of medicine developed by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann in the late 18th century. While experimenting with cures for malaria, Dr. Hahnemann discovered that some natural substances can produce symptoms that mimic disease. He further theorized that small doses of these substances administered to a person with similar symptoms might stimulate the body to defend itself more effectively against a given illness. After years of testing hundreds of natural substances, Dr. Hahneman's hypothesis was confirmed, and he formulated the principles upon which homeopathic medicine is based.
Principle 1: The Law of Similars
The Law of Similars is derived from the idea that "like cures like." This rationale also forms the theoretical basis for vaccines, which use trace amounts of disease components to strengthen the immune response to that disease.
Principle 2: The Law of the Infinitesimal Dose
In homeopathic medicine, the somewhat counterintuitive belief prevails that a substance becomes more potent the less concentrated it is. Homeopathic remedies are typically prepared by diluting the active, natural ingredient with water or alcohol. Interestingly, the solutions may be diluted to the point that they contain no chemically discernible trace of the original substance. But according to homeopaths, the more dilute a substance gets, the more potent it becomes. Indeed, these remedies may demonstrate potencies that placebos do not.
Principle 3: Individualized Treatment
It is important to bear in mind that homeopathic medicine focuses not on the causes of disease but instead on specific symptoms as experienced by the patient. Because the manifestation of illness varies widely among individuals, homeopaths approach treatment using a highly individualized model. Each patient receives a unique combination of remedies to suit his particular symptoms. Tailoring remedies to specific symptoms is critical in light of the Law of Similars, for without careful customization of a remedy, the necessary response to illness will not be stimulated and healing will not result.
Recommendations
Homeopathic remedies work best when touched as little as possible, when the pellets are allowed to dissolve in the mouth, and when taken 30 minutes before or after eating.
Because homeopathic remedies are safe and nontoxic, they may be a suitable alternative for those who can't tolerate medications.
References
- "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living;" Janet Zand, LAc, Allan Spreen, MD and James LaValle, RPh, ND; 1999.
- "Alternative Medicine, The Definitive Guide;" Burton Goldber; 2002.
- Homeopathy: An Introduction
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