Introduction to Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a system of medicine based on the laws of similars: "like cures like." Chosen remedies are infinitely small doses of a substance that at larger doses would produce similar symptoms of the illness. This is contrary to much of conventional or "allopathic" medicine which uses a substances (such as an antibiotic) that produce "different" symptoms than the illness at hand.

Think of homeopathy as a gentle nudge to the body to return to a healthy, balanced state.  Within each of us is a natural tendency towards health. Our bodies are built to maintain balance -- a concept known as "homeostasis."  Imbalances may present with specific physical and emotional symptoms, providing clues to how a person is trying to return to a state of balance.  Remedies are then individualized for each person based on the precise details of the illness. 

Homeopathic remedies are created from a starting substance by a series of dilutions and vigorous shaking (succussions) between dilutions.  The "potency" of a remedy describes how many sequential dilutions and succussions have been done.  Remarkably, in potencies of 12c or greater, it is unlikely that a single molecule of the original substance remains.  The water molecules used in the dilutions hold an imprint of the original substance, possibly by the structures of the molecules, the electromagnetic properties, and other interactions that belong in the realm of quantum physics.  Water (H2O) is a fascinating and unique molecule whose properties make life here on Earth possible.  (I like to think of how no two snowflakes are completely alike to truly appreciate the gift of water.)  Because the body is about 70-80% water, consider that an alteration in the body's water charateristics may potentially have a large impact on the whole.

Need more?  I would highly recommend reading Dana Ullman's article on nanopharmacology and how homeopathy works.  I also like Kellie Kirkpatrick's brief discussion of homeopathy and the vital force.