by Judith C Evans

Created on: August 29, 2010   Last Updated: August 30, 2010

Homeopathic medicine was introduced by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann in 1810. Homeopathic remedies are prepared from natural substances, such as plants or minerals, in a series of dilutions and succussions (shaking). A remedy is prescribed to treat the symptom it would cause at full strength; the body’s healing abilities are stimulated by the diluted substance.

Homeopathic remedies are administered in liquid - usually alcohol or lactose tablet form. Often, the remedy is placed under the tongue for better absorption. Strong flavors such as peppermint or coffee can interfere with these highly diluted medicines. Some remedies are also available in ointments or sprays.

Letters and numbers

Homeopathic remedies are available in different potencies. A typical remedy is assigned a letter, which indicates the number of parts of alcohol in which one part of the remedy is diluted. The letters X, C, and LM are most commonly used. An assigned number indicates the number of times the remedy has been diluted and succussed.

For example, the homeopathic remedy Arnica is indicated for sore muscles. The remedy label reads: Arnica 6X. The number 6 tells us that the remedy has been diluted and succussed 6 times, and the X indicates that 1 part Arnica is diluted in 10 parts alcohol. Remedies with the greatest number of dilutions are the strongest remedies. Therefore, Arnica 200C is stronger than Arnica 6X.

Choosing a potency

When treating anything more serious than a cold, insomnia, or sore muscles, consult a trained homeopathic practitioner. Homeopathic treatment usually begins with the least potent dosages. If symptoms improve, a stronger dosage may be used. Sometimes, if a condition is acute, treatment begins with a strong potency.

Homeopathic medicine treats each patient according to his individual constitution. A homeopathic practitioner may recommend a lower potency for a patient who is unusually sensitive to remedies. High potency remedies may be administered in a single dose once a week; lower potencies may be taken several times a day.

Conclusion

In the United States, every homeopathic remedy is carefully prepared under FDA safety and purity guidelines. Every remedy is listed under the Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States, which was created under the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938. Each remedy must list at least one medical indication.

Remedies for serious illnesses, such as cancer, must be prescribed by a homeopathic practitioner. Other remedies are sold over the counter, and can be purchased at most health food stores and some drug stores. You can also purchase remedies online, from sources such as 1-800 Homeopathy.

Sources:

Homeopathy Guide to Potency and Dosage

Homeopathy Guide to Potency Scales

Boericke: Homeopathic Materia Medica

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