Homeopathic
Homeopathic
Homeopathic (pronunciation: /ˌhoʊmiˈɒpəθɪk/) is a system of alternative medicine that was developed in Germany more than 200 years ago. The term "homeopathy" comes from the Greek words homeo (similar) and pathos (suffering or disease).
Etymology
The term "homeopathic" was coined by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann in 1796 and is derived from the Greek words "hómoios" (similar) and "páthos" (suffering). Hahnemann developed the principle of "like cures like" after experimenting with cinchona bark, a treatment for malaria, and finding that it produced symptoms similar to those of the disease it was intended to treat.
Principles of Homeopathy
Homeopathy is based on two main principles: the law of similars and the law of minimum dose.
Law of Similars
The Law of Similars is the idea that a disease can be cured by a substance that produces similar symptoms in healthy people. This is often referred to as "like cures like".
Law of Minimum Dose
The Law of Minimum Dose suggests that the lower the dose of the medication, the greater its effectiveness. Homeopaths use this principle to prepare their remedies by repeatedly diluting the original substance and shaking it vigorously (a process known as potentization).
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathic remedies are made from natural substances such as plants, minerals, or animals. These substances are diluted in a specific way to create a remedy that can stimulate the body's own healing abilities. Some common homeopathic remedies include Arnica, Belladonna, and Nux vomica.
Criticism and Controversy
Despite its popularity, homeopathy has been criticized for its lack of scientific evidence. Many studies have found that homeopathic remedies are no more effective than a placebo. However, proponents of homeopathy argue that the remedies work on an energetic level that is not yet fully understood by science.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Homeopathic
- Wikipedia's article - Homeopathic
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