Chapter 6: Preparation ofHomeopathy Remedy 177 CHAPTER6 Homoeopathic Remedies Abstract: In this chapter, a list of polychrest remedies that are commonly used for wide range of symptoms of diseases and their uses is given. Sources of homeopathic remedies and examples of each type are outlined. In addition, the three stages involved in the preparation of homeopathic remedies (preparation of the mother liquor, potentisation and medication) as well as the quality control criteria for both the prepared remedies and their potencies will also be detailed. 6.1. Homeopathic remedies: 6.1.a. Homoeopathy as Polychrest; Samuel Hahnemann named remedies which are effective in the treatment of a wide range of symptoms of diseases as Polychrest remedies. The word is derived from the Greek words – ‘poly’ and ‘crestos’, meaning ‘many uses’. They are ‘Polychrest’ because in their individual provings they induced not only a large number of symptoms, but these symptoms included several symptoms that are common to several common diseases. Thus, by the Law of Similar, these remedies have a great potential therapeutic application for a wide range of similar symptoms in the patient. Polychrest include many of the great classical homoeopathic medicines, which are central to the whole Homoeopathic Materia Medica, such as Atropa Belladonna, Nux Vomica, Pulsatilla, Calcarea Carbonica, Arsenicum Album and Sulphur. Listed below are few of the most common homoeopathic medicines. (for further examples on remedies commonly used for common diseases please refer to appendix 1) 178 Table 1. Common homoeopathic remedies Abbreviations Aconite Allium cepa Belladonna Berberis Calc.carb. Calendula Chamomilia Euphrasia Ferr.phos. Gelsemium Graphites Hamamelis Hypericum Ignatia Full Name Aconitum napellus Allium cepa Atropa belladonna Berberis aquifolium / berberis vulgaris Calcarea Carbonica Calendula officinalis Chamomilla Euphrasia officinalis Ferrum phosphoricum Gelsemium semprvirens Graphites Hamamelis virganica Hypericum perforatum Ignatia amara Common name Monkshood Deadly Nightshade Barberry Effects of fear and fright ;sore throat chicken pox neuralgia. Common colds with sneezing and watering eyes Throbbing pains; facial neuralgia; sore throat; measles; mumps. Anxiety ; fear and depression. Calcium carbonate Marigold Excessive appetite ; profuse periods , acne cramp. Healing cuts and sores. Wild chamomile Eyebright Teething infants ;nausea ; migraine Onion Iron phosphate Yellow jasmine Black lead Witch hazel St. john’s wort Kali Phos. Kali Phosphoricum St. Ignatius Bean Potassium phosphate Ledum Ledum palustre Wild Rosemary Merc Sol. Mercurius Solubilis Nat.Mur. Natrum Muriaticum Nux Vomica Soluble mercury (quicksilver) Sodium Chloride (salt) Poison nut Nux Vom. Common uses Inflamed, watering eyes; conjunctivitis; measles ; German measles. Nose bleed ; hot flushes ; varying appetite; fear . Influenza; sore throat; measeles;runny nose; examination or interview nervous. Cracked , wheeping eczema ; chapped , unhealthy skin ; constiupation . Chillblains ; varicose veins ; heavy periods ; bleeding piles . Blows to fingers and toes ; very painful cuts and wounds; bleeding piles Bravement; shock ; weepiness; hysteria; Piercing headaches. Exhaustion ; indigestion ; weakness during convalescence and after influenza. Respiratory and rheumatic conditions ;puncture wounds. Bad breath; body odour ;diarrhoea ; chickenpox ; mumps. Exhaustion; sinus troubles ; cold sores ;sneezy colds ; runny nose . Nervous indigestion; hangover ; itching piles; constipation ;stomach pain . 179 and the barks of trees. including naturally occurring mineral ores and chemical elements – metallic. Full Name Plumbum metallicum Rhus Toxicodendron Sepia Sepia officinalis Silica Silicea Sulphur Sulphur Thuja Urtica Thuja Occidentalis Urtica Urens Veratrum alb Veratrum album Common name Lead Common uses Muscle spasm . Common homoeopathic remedies Abbreviations Plumbum met. furthermore. Pure flint Boils. There are now more than 3. or from specific organs. almost all of which are derived from natural sources. Plants. Rhus tox. Muscle weakness. Sinus troubles . Sources of homoeopathic remedies. derived from the whole animal. including flowering plants.000 known medicines (remedies) available to the homoeopath. chronic headaces.000 known plant species on earth.1. morning sickness. abscesses . According to the law of similars. at least ten plant species become extinct every day and their potential for the relief of human suffering is lost forever. body odour . glands or tissue of healthy specimens. pollution . Stinging nettle Urticaria. sciatica. Tree of life Warts . bulbs or corms. Cuttlefish( juic Change of life . e) suppressed or delayed periods. mental illness. burning and itching piles.Continue…. 4. fish or insect. sunburn. vegetables. 6. strains of joints and tendons .boils . Biological sources: derived form healthy or diseased tissues of human or animal organisms. every substance on earth capable of including disease symptoms in a healthy person is potentially a homoeopathic medicine. 3. morning headaches with lack of appetite . lumbago. Table 1. White hellebore Neuralgia. gout. insect bites.b. Animals. Sulphur Skin troubles . Poison Ivy Rheumatisim. Note: there are more than 500. These sources may be categorized as follows: 1. burns and scalds. 180 . non-metallic and metalloids (chemically. 2.it’s reported that with the destruction of the rain forests . Minerals. yet less than 10% have been tested for their therapeutic properties. menstrual tension. shrubs.etc. part metal and part non-metal). herpes of lips. Chamomilla (wild Chamomile) . One of the original remedies proved by Samuel Hahnemann. The entire fresh plant is used to prepare the mother tincture. Tall plant with flowers shaped like a monks’ cowl: grows in mountainous areas. Plant Source The plant sources from the largest group.an annual herb growing m Europe. Northern Asia and India. 181 . Although the whole plant.. including the roots. Monkshood. Insects. LEAVES Leaves are collected when fully developed. Sabina (Juniperus Sabina.by gentle shaking in hot water. Etc. Savin).1. Calendula Officinalis (common or garden Marigold). Meadow Anemone. Very poisonous shrub growing on east cost of the United States. Sometimes the roots are excluded. These parts may be: a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i) j) k) l) Flowers Leaves Stem Roots Buds Seeds Fruits Young Shoots Berries Bulbs Corms Barks WHOLE PLANTS Collected in the flowering season in sunny weather. the fresh succulent plants are identified botanically and cleaned of dust. The mother tincture is prepared from the fresh picked leaves. Aconitum Napellus (Aconite. wolfsbane). Examples of remedies prepared from whole plants are: Pulsatilla Nigricans (Pulsatilla. is sometimes used in the preparation of homoeopathic medicines . accounting for more than 60% of all homoeopathic medicines.more usually selected parts are used. Wind flower. Evergreen plant found in central Europe. Poison Ivy). shortly before the flowering season or after sunset examples are: Rhus Toxicodendron (Rhus tox. Pasque flower). Prepared from the seeds of the plant. Examples are. FRUITS AND SEEDS Perfect specimens are gathered when ripe. Phytolacca Decandra (Phytolacca. Tall herbaceous plant with clusters of purple/black berries and greenish/ pink flowers. Nux Vomica (Nux Vom. ROOTS Roots of annual plants are best lifted after the seeds have ripened in the early autumn. St. Ignatius Bean). growing trunk. with only a few exceptions. Macotys). is used to prepare the remedy. Dried seeds may be stored in a closed container in a cool place in laboratories. Climbing hedgerow plant. It was the first homoeopathic. Black Snake Root. BERRIES. Peruvian bark). bad smell or discolorations. The mother tincture is prepared from the dried roots. Bryonia Dioica. growing in Northern Australia. The whole plant. 182 . including the berries. The seeds contain several alkaloids. They must be washed thoroughly and carefully inspected for signs of mould growth or woody appearance. that are indigenous to the Philippines. mainly emetine. Bugbane. growing in Europe. The bark of the quina tree has high quinine content.FLOWERS Collected in dry weather. Another subspecies. mainly strychnine. Poison Nut). Ipecacuanha (Ipecac. They are inspected for mouldiness. just as they are beginning to open. Barks form resinous trees are collected during the development of blossom and leaves. used and proved by Samuel Hahnemann in his original ‘proving ‘experiment. Virginian Poke). Examples are: Cimicifuga Racemosa (Actaea racemosa. BARKS Non-resinous barks are collected form young trees in the late autumn. It’s indigenous to South America. and are very poisonous. Dried seeds from the orange berries of the poison nut tree with a crooked trunk. Contains several alkaloids (Poisonous organic compounds containing nitrogen). One of the original remedies proved by Samuel Hahnemann.. Ignatia Amara (ignatia. Bryonia Alba (Wild Bryony). Example of remedy prepared from the bark of a tree: Cinchona Officinalis (china. Biennials are best lifted in the spring and perennials in the second or third year. Flowers alone are rarely used in homoeopathy. Native plant of America.). have a similar therapeutic action. healthy specimens. 2. growing in damp meadows. Prepared from glycerin / alcohol macerates of fresh buds. Surukuku). Indigenous to S. Honey bee). with a white or pale rose flower. trees and shrubs are rich in growth factors. Bushmaster snake. or whole animals are obtained only from perfect. These remedies belong to a branch of homoeopathy known as Gemmotherapy. The mother tincture is prepared from the fresh whole honey bee . The dried. Prepared from the brown. Pinus Montana (mountain Pine buds). A small. powdered insect is used to prepare the mother tincture. Animal Sources Homoeopathic medicines derived form animals include a wide variety of sometimes-exotic sources.Prepared from the poisonous venom of the Bushmaster snake. Large corm. Spanish Spider. including the sting . accounting for about 20% of all remedies.BULBS AND CORMS Bulbs and corms are lifted form the soil in March and April. Blister Beetle). Sepia is the pigment used by artists for centuries. Specimens must not be mixed with other substances and they should be stored in well-sealed containers in a cool dark place. from abattoirs or from zoos. Lachesis muta (Lachesis. A bite from this poisonous spider was thought to cause hysteria for which dancing was the cure. including marine animals. Lycosa Tarantula). about 3. colchicine. Cantharis (Spanish fly. The constituent is the poisonous alkaloid. hormones. BUDS AND YOUNG SHOOTS Buds and young shoots of plants. including vitamins. Examples are: Ribes Nigrum (black current buds). These medicines. Red onion). Lachesis mutus. Tarantula Hispanica (Tarantula Hisp. anthocyins and flavenoids. which are rich in vitamin C. Sepia Officinalis (Sepia. auxins and gibberellins. Example: Cochicum Autumnate (Colchium.America. snakes and insects. 183 . brilliant blue-green beetle about 2 centimeters in length. Autumn Crocus). Prepared from glycerin macerates of fresh buds of the tree. main Allium cepa (Allium. which may be parts of. developed in France. Animal sources of homoeopathic remedies are the second largest group. They are collected in the wild. Cuttlefish juice). with a strong odour. inky juice exuded by the cuttlefish on the approach of a predator.5 cm in diameter. Some examples are as follows: Apis Mellifica (Apis Mel. CaS. Sulphur. occurs naturally as flint. Quartz. Silicon Dioxide). essential trace element and a constituent of bones and teeth.formula. e. Chemical elements and minerals Sources of medicines in this category are sub-divided into those substances which are soluble in alcohol or water.Mother tinctures of insoluble elements and minerals are prepared by trituration. 184 .g.insoluble in alcohol/water. Prepared from the healthy thyroid gland of cattle. Insoluble in alcohol/water. Kalium Bichromicum (Kali Bich. usually classified under the biological sources. Common Salt). Symbol: As: Selenium. MINERALS Where possible.. minerals from naturally occurring ores are used. The naturally occurring form of elements is used in the preparation of homoeopathic remedies. Formula. Belongs to the group of homoeopathic remedies called Sarcodes. and those which are insoluble . Hepar Sulphuris (calcium sulphide ). Substances may be organic or inorganic compounds. Potassium Biochromate. in it’s anhydrous form. Insoluble. Lead). from naturally occurring deposits. Natrum Muraticum (Nat Mur. (iii) Nonmetals. Arsenicum Metallicum (Arsenic). rather than synthetic minerals. this element has been used for medicinal purposes since early civilizations.. Symbol: Se. ELEMENTS The basic chemical elements used may be metals. 4. (i) Metals. Silicea (Silica. Plumbum metallicum (Plumbum met. White powder or transparent crystals with the formula SiO2. Bluish white metal extracted from the natural ore. Symbol: Pb. Symbol: S.Sodium Chloride. An range-yellow crystalline salt prepared from naturally occurring chromium ore. As2O3.: Arsenicum Album (Arsen Album.. non-metals or metalloids. One of the original remedies proved by Hahnemann. Arseneous oxide). sheep or pigs. NaCl. It was prepared by heating equal parts of finely powdered oyster shell (calcium carbonate) and pure sulphur to white heat. Agate and sand. Prepared from naturally occurring rock salt as white crystals or powder. (ii) Metalloids. white powder.Thyrodea (thyroid). with the formula K2Cr2O7. Formula. potassium Dichromate). Gaertner. Nosodes with a full symptom picture. there are nearly 200 nosode preparations available. Biological sources There are three categories of these specialized homoeopathic medicines. we draw on the analogy between homoeopathy and vaccination.Iodum (Iodine). Dr. black lead. The finished medicines do not contain active or live organism. cartilage. and tissue removed from the patient for the patient. John Paterson and Dr. Bowel Nosodes are a special type of nosode developed by Glasgow physicians. Examples: 1. called Sarcodes. 1. they are used primarily in prophylaxis. 2. 7. Nosodes may be classified as: 1. fully proved and listed in the Homoeopathic Materia Medica. Graphites (graphite. Nosodes were originally prepared and proved in research in the 1930’s. plumbago). Psorinum. For example.g. Influenza 1984. NOSODES Nosodes are homoeopathic medicines prepared from human morbid or diseased tissue. An “allotropic” form of carbon. 185 . carried out at the Glassgow Homoeopathic Hospital in Scotland by Dr. Proteus. called Nosodes. Nosodes: Influenzinum. kidney. Edward Bach. Sarcodes: Adrenal gland. Symbol: I. Nosodes are often employed when the symptom picture of the patient is unclear and where the patient claims to have ‘never been well since’ suffering from a particular diseases. glandular or tissue extracts. Edward Bach. Influenza Chile 1985) in the thirtieth centesimal potency has been demonstrated to provide protection against influenza. fresh organs. John Paterson and his wife and Dr. 3. Hong Kong B. called Isodes. These are derived from cultures of stools containing intestinal bacteria. a mixture of several known strains of influenza virus (e. Nosodes with a limited symptom picture not listed in the homoeopathic Materia Medica. Mother tincture of iodine is a brownish/red color. 5. Bowel Nosodes: Bacillus no. Lumbar discus. 2. England A. Today. Crystalline flakes with metallic luster. pencil lead. such as pus. Medorrhinum. Occurs mainly in sea water. Mother tinctures and their potencies are prepared in the usual manner. pancreas. morbid or diseased tissue. Rarely prescribed in the acute stages of a disease. In this. a bacteriologist. Tuberculinum Koch. Characterized by constantly changing symptoms. It is emphasized that the clinical and laboratory studies were not provings in the strict Hahnemannian sense. Medorrhinum (nosode of the gonorrhea). a Glasgow physician. Full details of Nosodes are given in the Materia Medica of the Nosodes (Allen).Examples of Nosodes with a full symptom picture. Diptherinum (diphtheritic virus nosode). by Dr. B. Psorinum (Scabies Vesicle) (Psoric). stool. and Dr. Action of Bowel Nosodes: Explaining their action. but never less than the 12th centesimal potency. Slow in its action. Enteritis and Paratodinum. Indicated for chronic skin eruptions and rheumatism. Many Nosodes are only available on prescription. ‘The Potentized Drug and Its Action on the Bowel Flora’ was published in 1936. Acne Bacillus. pus. The patients may sweat profusely with offensive discharges (vomit. 2. succumbing easily to colds and where other remedies prove ineffectual.Coli is present in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and is considered to be harmless and non-pathogenic in the healthy bowel. Tuberculinum Klebs) indicated in renal affections. These intestinal bacteria break up the 186 . etc. John Paterson. usually at the 30th centesimal potency (30 or 30c).g. Syphilinum (Leuticum-nosode of the syphilitic virus). Examples of Nosodes with a limited symptoms picture are. Influenzinum (all strains of influenza virus identified this century) Anthracinum (Anthrax). Edward Bach. Tuberculinum (Nosodes from tubercular abscess-several strains. it is indicated for weakness and debility and skin conditions. BOWEL NOSODES The introduction of the Bowel Nosodes followed exhaustive research. involving the clinical and laboratory observation of no less than 12. e.000 clinical cases. Bowel Nosodes are derived from potentized cultures of human stools containing intestinal bacteria. Nomenclature It should be noted that many Nosodes carry the suffix-inum Dosage and Potency Nosodes are usually prescribed as a single dose only. we must consider the role of B.) with eruptions around the finger nails.coli and coli form organism found in the intestinal tract. Malaria Officinalis (and Malaria Tropical). Their first paper. over 20 years. often indicated for chronic conditions of gonorrheal origin and rheumatism. They are often described as the intestinal Nosodes of Bach Paterson. Folliculinum Morbillinum. the general rules may be followed. 1M) if there are marked mental symptoms.complex organic substances formed in the digestive process into simpler substances which are excreted. then this should be prescribed. The specific organism is related to the specific disease. 6c) may be given if there are marked pathological symptoms and a high potency (for example. if the choice of a remedy lies between a number of possible remedies. and are then said to be pathogenic. thus: 1. Summary of Main Bowel Nosodes 1. Use of bowel Nosodes Bowel Nosodes are deep and broad remedies covering the totality of symptoms. MORGAN (BACH) 187 . Sulphur and graphites are all possible remedies. since it is associated with each of these remedies. and. Bowel Nosodes are also considered to be useful remedies in the treatment of chronic diseases and in cases resistant to other treatments. In the diseased condition. but not until after three months. Bach and Paterson found that after some patients had received homoeopathic remedies. Prescribing bowel Nosodes A single dose in the 30th centesimal potency is generally recommended. then the bowel nosode MORGAN PURE (Paterson) may be used. The potentized bowel nosode can therefore be considered as a complex biochemical substance having the characteristic of the disturbed metabolism and thus be similar to the disease. Another approach is a single dose of the bowel nosode with repeated doses of an associated remedy. to have the power to restore the balance. However. that is a low potency (for example. the less frequent the dosage rate. by the Law of Similars. The specific organism is related to the specific homoeopathic remedy. The specific homoeopathic remedy is related to the specific disease. For example. The concluded that these non-lactose fermenting bacilli were biochemistry related to both the disease and the Homoeopathic remedy. Again. 3. Sometimes a second dose is given. 2. Otherwise. if Calcium Carbonate. the higher the potency. the B. non-lactose fermenting bacilli appeared in their stools which apparently bore a relationship with the remedy given. then the associated bowel nosode may be used.Coli are forced to modify their biochemistry in order to survive as the balance is upset. Case histories should therefore take into account both past and present symptoms and when a definite symptom picture indicates a particular homoeopathic remedy. Dys. The keynote for Morgan Bach is: CONGESTION. introspective. 188 .. avoids company. The digestion system symptoms relate t lack of nerve and muscle tone. business meetings or a dental appointment. Baryta Carb. in turn. giving a speech. DYS CO. Bilious attack with sever headaches. Ferr. Veratrum Alb. Kalmia. Nit. The digestion is congestion of gastric mucosa and the liver. and is irritable and depressed. inability to make a mental effort which. In particular. Calc. Symptoms are mental fatigue or brain fag. Carb. BACILLUS NO. Argent. Kali Carb. it is associated with Carbo Veg and Sulphur. Nat. distended stomach and full feeling in the stomach.. Calc Carb. The respiratory system symptoms are asthma and bronchial catarrh.7 (so called because it was the seventh bowel nosode to be identicalfied) is similar to another bowel nosode called PROTEUS BACH. Mag.This is most important bowel nosode most frequently found in the patient’s stool and associated with many other remedies. Iod. Iodum. Iod. Its associated remedies are Arsen. such as examinations. 3. Kali Bich. often in combination with potassium. Its associated remedies are Arsen. Bromium. hypersensitivity.. Calc Sulph. Kali Brom. The nervous tension is associated with forthcoming events.7 The keynotes are: MENTAL FATIGUE and PHYSICAL FATIGUE. fidgetiness and is prone to frontal headaches over eyes. Sepia and Sulphur. Iod. mental unease. Carbo Veg. the patient is concerned about his or her health.. Graphites. Iod. restlessness. flatulence. Alb. and Nat.(BACH) The Keynote is: NERVOUS TENSION. Kali Carb. It has a close relationship to the remedies of the elements bromine and iodine. which compares with the symptom picture of the remedy Kali Carb. Anarcardium and Veratrum Vide. disturbance of heart action (again from nervous tension). Co (Bach) may be useful for the treatment of duodenal ulcer (brought on by nervous tension). Its associated remedies are Alumina. The patient shows nervous tension. 2. Petroleum... Bacillus No.. The head is subject to congestive headaches. Cadmium Met. It has outstanding action on the skin congestion of the skin with itching eruptions. There are two sub-types: MORGAN PURE & MORGAN GAERTNER Constitutionally. produces a feeling of physical exhaustion. or palpitation before important events. Carb. Kali nit. Calc phos. The combined symptom pictures of Phosphorus. Bowel nosodes &associated remedies MORGAN (Bach) Alumina Graphities Baryta carb. Calc. (1) Morgan-Pure (Paterson) Kal carb. Any emaciated condition is an indication of the use of Gaertner (Bach). The keynote is: IRRITABILITY Symptoms are nervous irritability. hypersensetive.4. twitching of facial muscles and blinking. with an overactive brain. the keynote is: MALNUTRITION. (PATERSON) This remedy derives from non-lactose fermenting coccus found in the intestinal tract. Pulsatilla and silica. accurately compares with that of Gaertner (Bach). but Gaertneer (Bach) is most indicated when the infant comes off its mother’s milk. Mag. Catarrh of the nose and throat with enlarged tonsils and adenoids in the child. Medorrhinum Psorinum Tuberc. headache from sinus infection (particularly children) and profuse sweating at night. Phytolacca. Petroleum Carbo sulph.Carb. It is therefore. Phosphorus. Calc met. Sepia Digitalis SULPHUR Ferrum carb.. GAERTNER (BACH) Gaertner (Bach) has a close association with phosphorus with this bowel nosode. acute or chronic gastroenteritis. The respiratory system symptoms are chronic bronchial catarrh. Argent nit. are Acid. 189 . There is chronic irritation of the entire alimentary tract. The patient always appears to be anemic. Carb. Merc viv. diarrhea. Bov. Silica and Merc. Associated remedies are Calc fluor. Nat sulph. Associated Remedies of sycotic CO. temper. nausea and sickness. Mutabile (Bach) and Faecilis (Bach). Carbo veg.nit. Kali phos.. The child may be thin or emaciated. associated with the treatment of many children’s diseases and senility. Other Bowel Nosodes are Proteus (Bach) . SYCOTIC CO. Ferrum met. Nat phos. 5. Sulph Nat. Viv. Zinc phos. Rhus tox and Thuja. Calc. Table 2. There is an inability to digest fat and chronic gastro-enteritis. carb. sil. Nig. Phos. Iod Nat. ARSENICUM ALB. Tart. Calc. Sulph Hellebor. Bich. Sulph BACILLUS NO. Kali. KALI. Nit Merc. Flour. Nit. Iod GAERTNER (Bach) Ferrum iod. “7” Arsen. CARB Kali iod. Mur Baryta mur Aurum Mur Borax Conium Ferr. Mur Apis Ammon. Phos SILICEA MERC. CO.(B) Morgan-Gaertner (Paterson) Chelidonium LYCOPODIUM Chenopodium Merc. Calc. Rhus. Syphilinum Anacardium Argentum nit. Cad. Metal.flour PHOSPHORUS Calc. Kali. Brom. phos. Mur Kali. Kali. VIV Zinc. Pusatilla Kali. IODUM Kali. Iod. Sanguinaria Hepar. Tox. Thuja 190 . Mur NATRUM MUR Secale MUTABILE (Bach) Ferrum phos. Phytolacca Calc. Hypophos. iod Calc. Phos Nat. Mur. DYS. Natrum sulph Antim. (Paterson) Ac. Sulph Taraxacum Lachesis PROTEUS (Bach) Ac. Mur Cuprum met Ignatia Calc. (Bach) PULSATILLA Nat.mium met. Bormium (Paterson) Calc. Sil. Mag. Kalmia Veratrum album Veratrum viride SYCOTIC CO. gland or tissue in the human organism. but acts directly on the specific gland or tissue. They were originally introduced by Dr. Expanded group of remedies of Biological origin. Rouy. Recently. Organotherapeutic treatment is the administration of Thyroidea 5c or 7c in order to reach the gland directly and stimulate its function.Fortier Benoville. organs and tissues of the human body in rectifying the disturbed function.1.c. sheep or pigs. Martiny and Co-workers in Switzerland in 1936. For example. Gogmos. pus or epithelial tissue. certain foods or detergents.Conan and developed by Dr. Isotherapy is the practice of treating diseases with Isodes (sometimes called Isopathy). Principles 191 . These glands. Organotherapy Organotherapy is the administration of glands. organs or tissue removed from healthy animals. organs and tissues from healthy animals (cattle. Any substance to which the patient is allergic may be used in Homoeopathic doses to treat that patient.1. Introduced by Dr. blood. 6. Nebel. These substances (allergens) are usually prescribed in 30c potency or higher (200c or 1M). Bergeret and Tetau since 1936. For example. Martiny. Secondarily for their action on their affinity for the corresponding organ. pigs and sheep) in homoeopathic potencies prepared in the conventional Hahnemannian manner (Sarcodes). Conan in France and developed by Drs. organotherapy has been evaluated on a wide scale and established by clinical practice. grass pollen. Fetan and Co-workers as a branch of homoeopathy known as organotherapy. their use has been developed extensively in France by Dr.c. house dust mite. 3. 4. Bacillinum FAECALIS (Bach) SEPIA ISODES Isodes are homoeopathic potencies prepared by the standard Hahnemannian procedure from the causative agent of the disease taken from the patient for the treatment of the patient. Isodes are often used in the treatment of allergies. SARCODES Sarcodes are homoeopathic remedies prepared in potencies from healthy glands.2 g dose). Guermonires. It is a form of homoeopathic treatment which is active on the various glands. For example.i. a patient suffering from an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) would be treated allopathically with thyroid extract (0. The therapy is not substitutive or palliative.Ferrum met. organs or tissues are removed under veterinary supervision from healthy slaughtered cattle. an organ and tissue specific action. One dose three times a week. Treatment may continue for 1. whilst Thyroidea 30c inhibit thyroid secretion. Table 3. It must be emphasized. having a ‘tissue memory’. in the appropriate potency in each case. and some patients may experience the opposite effect. organotherapy has. organs or tissues. The body thus recognizes its own substance. that there is variability in the action of different potencies in relation to the individual sensitivity of patients. That is: ‘The organ acts upon the organ’ Thus. Prescribing Organotherapeutic potencies should not be repeated too frequently.glandular or tissular. Drs. Immunity is the protective mechanism of the body. Thus: Low potencies are stimulant (4c or 5c) Medium potencies are regulatory 7c High potencies are depressant (9c. Thyroidea 4c stimulates thyroid secretion. A single dose is 10 drops of liquid potency or one suppository. The second principle of organotherapy is the triphasic activity of potencies of homologous glands. homoeopathic potencies of this organ is given. Bergeret and Tetau have explained the mode of action of organotherapy in the light of the current knowledge of immunology.The first principle of organotherapy is concerned with cellular specificity. For example. it has been shown that potencies of Folliculinum 9c depress folliculin secretion in female rats. Examples on organotherapy remedies Diabetes and Prediabetic States Depression Pancreas 4c 3x week Hypothalamus 7c 1st evening Hemorrhoids Insomnia Renal Insufficiency Hypertension Cerebrinum Vein Bulbinum Kidney Artery 7c 2nd evening 4c 3x week 9c 3x week 4c 3x week 7c 1st evening Premenstrual Tension Thyroid Regulation Ovarian Regulation Vein Folliculinum Thyroidea Ovary 7c 2nd evening 9c 7th and 21st day of cycle 7c 3x week 7c 3x week 192 .2 or 3 months according to the patient’s reaction. however. which is able to differentiate between good and harmful substances. Clinical research has demonstrated this principle. therefore. the heart may be treated with heart and the liver may be treated with liver. For example. in the evening before retiring or alternatively every other evening. 12c or30c) For example. to treat an organ. They are rich in growth factors. Treatment by gemmotheraputic With the affinity each of the buds or young shoots of plants have for specific organs of the body.ii.c. Table 4. Ribes Nigrum ( Blackcurrant buds) 2x Betula Verrucosa (Birch seeds) 2x Rosa Canina ( Dogrose buds) 2x Juniperius Communis (Juniper young seeds) 2x Tilia Tomentosa (Lime tree buds) 2x Cedrus Libani ( Cedar buds) 2x Marked analgesic effect on all rheumatic conditions and Urticaria Intellectual overwork Headache and migraine Cirrhosis Neuralgia. they have been developed clinically since 1965. Gemmotherapy Drainage It is the stimulation of the excretory organs. Euphrasia. Certain homoeopathic remedies have an affinity for specific excretory organs. Examples of gemmotheraputic remedies and their indications are given below. the solvent used is a mixture of alcohol and glycerin. such as the kidney.1. If the normal excretory system is blocked or deficient. hormones. Preparation of remedies Potencies of gemmotheraputic remedies are unique in that. such as vitamins. auxans and gibberellins. liver and even the skin. although they are prepared by the normal Hahnemannian procedures. Gemmotherapy is often regarded as a modern form of drainage. we have Berberis and Solidago for kidneys. it acts both as a curative and a drainage agent. The usual dose is 50 or 75 drops per day of the liquid at 2x potency for periods up to two months according to the reaction of the patient.Retarded Growth Hypothalamus 7c 1st evening Vertigo Duodenum Cerebellum 4c 2nd evening 4c 3x week 6. Gemmotheraputic remedies are prepared from the fresh buds of plants or embryonic tissues in the growth phase. Originally introduced in France. unwanted by-products and toxins are not removed from the body and one or more of these organs need to be stimulated. Thus. Gemmotherapy preparations – all in 2x potency only. insomnia and neurotic conditions Pruritis and dry eczema 193 . Some homoeopaths believe that when a homoeopathic remedy is prescribed strictly according to the Similimum. it is possible to give specific clinical indications.may be regarded as drainage agents. Sabadilla and Kalium Iodatum for rhinopharyngial mucosa and so on. which opens up the possibility of true tissue therapy. sometimes called Dechelating Lithotherapy. If the dietary intake of these elements is adequate. blood phosphorus and calcium levels have been found to be normal. Lithotherapy Lithotherapy. Treatment usually extends over two to three months in a dose every other day. thus the mineral Quadratic Feldspar is used in the treatment of generalized osteoporosis.iii. which aim to re-establish trace metal or metalloid balances in the human body. and metalloids. Treatment by Lithotherapy Normally prescribed in 8x potency. Chelation is the reaction by which a metal (acceptor) ion receives a number of shared pairs of electrons from certain types of organic compounds. such as selenium in trace quantities. although the symptoms and signs of the disease suggest a lack of phosphorus and calcium. yet measurements carried out on blood serum show no significant deficiency. which has been developed in France. there are many cases where a disease is related to a deficiency of these trace elements. This blocking. One such organic compound of chelating agent. For example. which effectively removes the metallic ions from the active metabolism is called Chelation. However. It is believed that there is a crystalline structural analogy between the mineral and the chelated substance.c. The organic compound grips the metallic ion like the claws of a crab. 194 . Lithotherapy is. concerned with the use of potencies of these rocks and minerals to partially liberate the metal ions that are entrapped by Chelation. in 10 drops for a single dose. phosphorus and calcium levels have been found to be normal. crystalline inorganic compounds containing one or more different metal ions.1. For example. chelated complexes of calcium and phosphorus have a quadratic (four-sided) crystallographic structure and not the hexagonal (six-sided) structure.. Lithotherapy employs homoeopathic potencies (usually 8x) of selected. Bergeret and Tetau. sulphonamides and diuretics increase the occurrence of chelation and it is. which is believed to have optimum activity. Supplements of these trace elements are sometimes necessary to avoid dietary deficiencies. (hence ‘ chele’ – Greek for claw of crab). The rocks or minerals are complex. in terms of activity of certain enzymes in the body is now recognized. analgesics. is used for the treatment of cadmium or chromium poisoning. cobalt and manganese.D. such as copper. a common phenomenon. then it appears that there is some form of blockage to their utilization in the metabolic processes of the body. antibiotics.the body content is quiet normal. Chemically. therefore. in cases of tetany.A. naturally occurring rocks or minerals. Chelation The importance of the role of certain metals. is another branch of homoeopathy. therefore.T. E.Sequoia Gigantea (Giant Sequoia tree buds) 2x Vibernum Lantana ( Vibernum buds) 2x Aging Asthma (simple and complicated) 6. Excessive use of tranquilizers. principally by Drs. In osteoporosis. Insomnia Rhodonite 8x (complex of silicon and manganese) 1st day Constipation Depression Glauconia 8x (complex of silicon.Table 5. These tinctures. Stage I Prepared of mother tinctures Stage II Potentisation Stage III Medication The first stage involves the preparation of liquid ‘mother tinctures’ symbolized by the Greek letter θ. To achieve the second potency (2c) one part of this mixture is added to 99 parts of the alcohol solution which is then again succussed. aluminium. Examples on treatment by Lithotherapy. iron and aluminium) 1st day Eczema Herpes Lithium Tourmaline 8x ( complex of sodium. 3x. 3. aluminium. 2x. iron. are then made from the appropriate mother tincture or pure mineral using either the centesimal scale (Hahnemann’s choice) or less commonly the decimal scale. the first potency (1x) is made by diluting one part of mother tincture or pure mineral with 9 parts of the alcohol solution followed by succession. or potencies as they are called. Today this is achieved using a machine which successes the solution in a container through repeated impact with a solid surface. The first potency (1c) on the centesimal scale is made by adding one part f mother tincture or pure mineral to 99 parts of an alcohol solution. Homoeopathic pharmacy and stages of preparation Homoeopathic medicines are preparation three main stages. silicon and fluorine) 2nd day Conglomerate 8x each day Conglomerate 8x 1st day Chalcopyrites 8x ( complex of copper and iron) 2nd day 6. Remedies which have been diluted according to the decimal scale are written as follows. The successive dilutions. 2. as follows: 1. In the decimal series. This process can be continued indefinitely in order to achieve the desired potency. etc. 1x. The second potency (2x) is made by adding one part of the first potency mixture to 9 parts of the alcohol solution which is once more subjected to the succession process and so on.2. the pure substance is used as the equivalent starting point. which contain the various remedies in their most concentrated form. Sometimes they are 195 . magnesium. are prepared by steeping the appropriate botanical or less frequently animal. Hahnemann used to bang the vial containing the solution on a sturdy leather bound book. substance in an alcohol solution for periods of up to one month. The mixture is then succussed (shaken vigorously). The mixture is then thoroughly pressed and filtered and the resultant solution is called the mother tincture Minerals that are totally soluble in alcohol or water are not subjected to the above process. magnesium and potassium) 2nd day Pink Sandstone 8x each day Lepidolite 8x (complex of lithium. boron. iron. or in solid (triturated) Form. depending on the water content or the starting material. 3x. The most commonly employed potencies in clinical practice are as follows: 1x. 2D. After ageing for periods ranging from one hour to open month. silica and gold. green-yellow to dark brown or red color. 10m and CM. the suspension is filtered by gravity or compression. 1m. for example. 1. 196 . Final alcohol strengths may be 331/3%. etc. MT (TM in France). etc. 6x. The remedies can also be prepared in granule form. 2c. or the abbreviation. The remedies can also be prepared in granule form. one part of the substance is added to 99 parts of sugar of milk (lactose) and finely ground using a pestle and mortar. Mother tinctures are prepared in four steps: a) b) c) d) Maceration (or grinding to a powder) Extraction Ageing Filtration Mother tincture can be defined as the homoeopathic medicament in its most concentrated form. Succulent. vegetable or animal substances are prepared by the maceration (mincing of breaking down) of the fresh material in different strengths of alcohol at ambient (room) temperature. then. yellow. 3D. 3. One part of this mixture is then added to 99 parts of sugar of milk and finely ground in order to obtain 2c potency and so on. 2. They are produced as clear liquids. The liquids range from colorless to straw colored. derived from sucrose as opposed to a lactose base. Remedies diluted according to the centesimal scale are either written simply as 1. If the particular remedy to be potentized is insoluble in both alcohol and j water. and 6c. the alcohol solution containing the potentized remedy is added to a specified quantity of sugar of milk which is the made up into little white tablets or left in a powder form. 12x. The succus is mixed with one half of its volume of 95%pure alcohol (volume/volume). 50% or 80-90%. Stage I Preparation of Mother Tinctures. 30c.designated with a ‘D’ e. Existence of colloids and it now appears that his process of prolonged trituration converts insoluble substances into a colloidal state. When the required potency has been reached. This process is called ‘trituration’ and can be repeated indefinitely to obtain the full range of potencies. to achieve a 1c potency. Or as 1c. 3c. 200c.g. fresh plants yield between 350 to 700ml of unfiltered succus (or juice) per kilogram of plant material. (a) Maceration Mother tinctures of plant. producing mother tinctures of approximately 331/3% (volume/volume) alcohol content. 1D. 12c. although these usually contain the appropriate remedy in tincture form rather than potency. All mother tinctures are denoted by the Greek letter (phi). Ointments and suppositories are also made up. solid material from the liquid. (d) Filtration This process separates the undissolved. (2) Succession. pressure or suction to produce a bright. The solid material is rejected. (c) Ageing The suspension of solid material in the extraction liquid is stored in an amber glass container in a cool. Filtration is achieved by gravity. but introduced in France in recent years. The ratio of alcohol to water depends on the relative dryness of the starting material. Stage II Potentisation. producing mother tinctures of approximately 80-87% (volume/volume) alcohol content. Mother tinctures for gemmotherapy preparations are prepared with alcohol and glycerin mixtures. The latter solvent was not used by Hahnemann. Extraction dissolves all the therapeutic substances in the starting material. (b) Extraction The macerated material is treated with a solution of alcohol (ethanol or ethyl alcohol). The above process is mathematic-mechanical where the inert substance has changed into a state of physical solubility and physiological assimilability.Fresh plant material yielding less than 350ml per kilogram of succus is repeatedly macerated with alcohol/water mixtures. Hahnemann method: Potentisation is carried out in two distinct steps: (1) Serial (or sequential dilution of the mother tincture with a mixture of alcohol and water. Succession & Trituration. A. Hahnemann method B. which was inert in its crude states. which involves vigorous shaking with impact. Potentisation There are two methods for Potentisation: A. These substances are often very complex and may be thirty or forty in number. which is the MOTHER TRINCTURE. Korsakov method Potentisation is a process by which there is quantitative reduction in drug substance but a qualitative increase in its medicinal or therapeutic property. 197 . and distilled water. clear liquid filtrate. dark place for periods of one hour up to one month. 2. not methanol. This serial (or sequential) dilution and succession is repeated to produce. potencies of 3x. 3x. but the dilution ratio is different (1:100). in a new container. 4x…etc. 2x. and so on up the decimal series. 4c… No (1. 3x 1 part in 1000 4x 1part in 10.000. 3c. 5x. 3.) (a) Decimal series of potencies To one part (or 1 milliliter of mother) of mother tincture in a glass container is added 9 parts (or 9 milliliters) of 20 or 30% alcohol / pure water. based on serial dilutions of 1:100. based on serial dilutions of 1:10. the Roman numeral for 100. is added 99 parts ( or 99 ml ) of alcohol/water and the mixture is schussed giving a potency of ic. To one part (or 1 ml ) of a solution of potency 1x. (b) Centesimal series of potencies The method of preparation is the same as for decimal potencies. in the Students should note that x is the Roman numeral for 10.000 Dilution Dilution 1:10 (or 10) Dilution 1:100 (or10) Dilution 1:1..Equation to calculate the dilution of any decimal potency nx = 10 Where n is any potency number. and c. Etc…. 2c.000 6x 1 part in 1. and (b) Centesimal series. is added a further 9 parts (or 9 ml) of alcohol/ water and the mixture is succussed again.000. And the mixture is succussed. giving a potency of 1x (the first decimal potency. Thus.000 (or 10) etc. we have decimal dilutions as follows: Parts alcohol/water 1x 1 part in 10 2x 1 part in 100. giving a potency of 2x (the second decimal potency). 4. 4x. To one part (or 1 ml) of mother tincture in a glass container. 198 .There are two series of dilutions: (a) The decimal series. whilst the centesimal series is denoted 1c. as follows: 1.000(or 10) Dilution 1:10000 (or 10) Dilution 1:1. 6x. progressively. 2. The decimal series of potencies is denoted 1x. 000 And so on. Not achieving a gentle and rapid cure or just taking too long. However. 199 . with 999 parts 9 or 999 ml) of alcohol/water. An aggravation comes even after getting the best selected remedy. 6c and so on. 2M 3M etc. (c) Millesimal series of potencies A third potency series is the millesimal scale. Millesimal potencies are used very rarely. To one part (or 1 ml) of a solution of potency ic in a fresh container..000. Potencies on the millesimal scale are sometimes denoted 1M. These main problems included. this was because he had difficulty getting what he thought was the best cure.000.000 We may use the equation.000. Another system. is added a further 99 parts ( or 99 ad ) of alcohol/water.000 4c 1 part in 100.2.000 1:1.000 3c 1 part in 1. But this leads to confusion with the use of 1` m to denote a centesimal potency of 1. The process is repeated to produce. potencies of 3c. and the mixture is schussed again. 5c.000 3 mm 1:1.000. which is probably more explanatory. (d)LM Potencies Hahnemann felt the need to improve on his potencies.000 1:100. based on mother tincture sequentially diluted in the same manner as before.000 2 mm 1:1. nc = 10 to calculate the dilution of any Centesimal potency. Not being able to repeat the dose even though there are still symptoms so that the patient suffers.000.000 1:10. is to denote millesimal potencies by the suffix mm or MM. A high potency dose will continue to act for a long time. It follows that millesimal dilutions are: 1 mm 1:1.000.000.000. giving a potency of 2c. 4c. Giving the right dose and potency was still argued and still confusing. progressively. we have centesimal dilutions as follows: 1c 1 part in 100 1:100 2c 1 part in 10. Thus. take one globule of the 0/1. a fresh glass should be made. Will Taylor. you would dissolve one medicated pellet in a drop of water. likes to think of an LM1 as sharing the qualities of a 6C & a 30C (working as deeply as a 30C. the half teaspoon should be put into another glass of water. and so on.000) is dissolved in 400 drops of distilled water and 100 drops of 90% alcohol. it is not possible to directly compare the potency of an LM with a C. of pure water. Stand and take the leather Kent from the shelf and beat it up 100 times in a cha cha rhythm (1. Of this you use 1 drop to moisten about 500 pellets. and then a dose is taken from the second glass. and an LM3 as similarly sharing the qualities of a 12C & a 200C. When they are dry. Making LM potencies According to Kim McDodge's online discussion According to Julian Winston's massive online comments The manufacturing process is outlined by Hahnemann in Paragraph 270 of the 6th edition of the Organon. dissolve it with one drop of distilled water. which are the size of poppy seeds. If more is needed. The administration of the dosage is a second issue. small for 1/2 dram top and bigger for the 1 dram and stock bottle (4oz. To be faithful to the Organon. add 99 drops of diluted ethanol. a clear 1 dram with 500 poppy seed sac lacs and a brown 1/2 dram of 500 poppy seed sac lacs. To go up the scale.3).000. and label them “II” or 0/2. One tablespoon of this stock solution is placed in 4 oz. stirred. Preserve with brandy or charcoal or not. The most economical and most interesting way to start one's own process with the LMs is to purchase the LM1s preferably from a pharmacy who triturates the substances. MD. This becomes the “stock” bottle given to the patient. medicate 500 pellets. Put a seed of previous remedy into a clear 1 drammer. Drop one into the clean filled Boston brown. Boston brown) tops as well as some rectangles for labels. Hahnemann suggested that in the case of very sensitive people. Place 1 DROP of the above in a vial and add 100 drops of 95% alcohol. Cork the vial and succuss 100 times. succuss. add a drop of water from the dropper bottle and wait for it to dissolve.In practice.05gms) of the 3C (1:1. dry them. He also suggests (#272) that the dosage be administered in water.2. These steps can be repeated up to the “XXX” or 0/30. then works them to the LM1. the plant material is triturated directly with the milk sugar. bottle them. Saturate granules with this. When the liquid starts to run out the bottom. toss in the 2 oz dropper bottles of water and organol. This mixture is good for 24 hours. add 100 drops of 95% alcohol. are placed in a small thimble with a hole in the bottom. Hahnemann suggested that the dose is one globule. Success 12 times.” This is the first millesimal potency. the granules are saturated. Spread the granules on blotting paper. add new brown 1/2 dram and a new clear 1 dram and a clean brown 4 oz boston. In the case of plants (where a tincture is the usual starting point). but as gently as a 6C). Cap &Label. (Hahnemann describes them as weighing one grain per 100). The dose is one-half teaspoon. a small envelope of poppy seed sac and 3 measurement bottles: a clear 1 dram with 1 drop of water and 99 drops of alcohol (use Organon). They are then saturated by pouring the liquid potency over them. Dr. the LM potencies should be sold only in globule form. Potentized by succession (1 drop of the previous dilution and 99 drops of water/ethanol. The bottle should be no more than 2/3 full. to make an LM2 or 3 take the Last Potency out and put it in the basket where u have a plastic box with tops and labels Prepare: round for the tops in 2 sizes. 1 grain (or . Cap. take the boston to fill with filtered water Arrange these things on a 9x12 sheet of blotter paper. To take this up to the next step. The granules. Robert Schore has translated this paragraph into the following dosage guide: Dissolve one globule in 110cc distilled water. and succuss 100 times. Take measurement bottle and each of these in turn and fill to their respective points with the seeds. shake to moisten and label. It is unclear how one would proceed with something like APIS which has to start with a tincture. Drop one drop of this into the new brown 1/2 dram bottle and take both of these open bottles and shake all out so that the insides are empty but for the coating on the sides and bottom. 200 . put them in a bottle and label them “I” or “0/1. He outlines the dosage process in a footnote to #248. The granules are smaller than #10 granules. Take the liquid measurement bottle and the dissolved pellet bottle in left hand and fill the dissolved pellet bottle to the same level with organol and cap it. The process starts with a 3C trituration.2 1. 000c 50. Korsakovian method His method employed the same glass container. which used different containers for each serial dilution.000c 10.000 D = Decimal 201 . B. 1 it could be easily computerized and automated. The Korsakov method is quicker. He claimed that upon emptying the container after the first dilution. preferred method. since it uses a single vial. as opposed to hanuman’s.000c CM Where.000c 100. it was necessary only to add a further 99 parts of alcohol/water to the same container. X = Roman numeral for 10 C = Roman number for 1.Stock bottle ready for use. To summaries. Nomenclature of potencies The potency number represents the number of potentisations carried out starting with the mother tincture. Hahnemann’s method is generally used for preparing potencies up to 200c. sufficient liquid remained adhering to the walls is to be used for the next dilution.000c 50 M 100.000c 1M 10. Another advantage of the Korsakov method of potentisation is that. but is time consuming. therefore.000 c 1. scientifically accurate. but less accurate.000c 10 M 50. Table 6 : System used Decimal Series Centesimal Series (Hahnemann) Centesimal (korsakovian) High Potencies United states X (or x) C (or c) Great Britain X (or x) No suffix France D CH CK No suffix Not applicable 1. For the second centesimal potency. that is the serial (or sequential) dilutions and succession. and the korsakovian method for higher potencies. the Hahnemann method is the classical. but can be automated easily. but with alcohol. add a few drops of alcohol solution at least 97% enough to cover all of the pellets and then success the vial. Then add blank granules and success. The resultant finely divided powder represents the first centesimal triturated potency. Julian Winston has a discussion of manufacturing and potencies from the 1925 B & T catalogue on this web site talking about Hahnemannian methods: http://www. But it is believed it energizes the potency. to render the crystals or powder to a degree of fineness and subdivision which will permit their solubilisation in alcohol/water. One method is to place one or two pellets of potency on top of a vial of blank pellets.Succession Is violent shaking with impact which follows each step of the sequential dilution thus completing the potentisation procedure.co. that there is a fixed number of molecules in unit volume at standard temperature 202 .nz/boericke/btmeth. Not only does succession ensure an intimate. With one part (or 1 gram) of the substance finely ground. The usual level is 8 xs. A pure sugar pellet is softer.htm Trituration Trituration is the procedure by which potencies are produced in the solid form. therefore. At this stage higher potencies can be prepared in the more convenient liquid form in the usual manner. a small (or aliquot) part of 99 parts of pure lactose is added in a mortar and pestle. The trituration is continued for at least one hour. This process is employed to “solubilize” insoluble mineral and chemical elements. The wet method The same. The dry method Wait until the bottle has little left in it. mixing of the liquid and diluent. It follows. Avogadro’s hypothesis Avogadro postulated that equal volumes contain equal numbers of molecules. The size of the pellet doesn't matter nor does the composition of the material matter either.homeopathyic. whilst adding aliquot parts of the remainder of the lactose at 10-20 minute intervals. that is. suppositories. powders. General Pharmacy and Criteria for Eligibility. pills (or pilules ) granules. Ointments and creams: for topical administration usually incorporate low potencies (such as 1x. published in 1897 and few copies now remain. Quality of Homoeopathic remedies Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia Pharmacopoeias are official publication listing approved drugs and they have legal status in each country. Note: the liquid potency employed is a special ‘medicating potency which is prepared in a strong solution of 95% alcohol (95% ethanol 15 % distilled water). regrettably. Creams are often preferred as they are water based and do not stain clothes. pure lactose (80%) by weight) and pure sucrose (20% by weight) both natural sugars. weighing 01 grams and 4 mm in diameter. pharmaceutical forms are as follows: Tablets: compressed. liquids. ointments. 1 mm in diameter. 4 mm in diameter. The last British Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia was. 6. It is now so outdated as to be of no more than historical value.4 x 1023 molecules. unmedicated (placebo). The solid. Pills. creams or injectables. The Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia Convention of the United Sates now prepared the 9th edition. followed by a Supplement. Avogadro showed this number to be 6. that is tablets. Theoretically. Powders: pure lactose. and the first part was published in 1989. 2x. 3x ) or even the mother tinctures themselves. and this was later proven by experiment. in each case. Stage III: Medication The pharmaceutical forms of homoeopathic medicines are similar to those of allopathic medicines. This is necessary since the lactose or sucrose will dissolve in solutions containing a high concentration of water and the tablets or pills will tend to stick together. The Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United Status (HPUS) was published in its 8th in 1979. medication is achieved by dripping or spraying the liquid potency of the remedy onto the bulk solid form and allowing it to be absorbed. The shape is double convex. all potencies higher than 24x or 12c have none of the original molecules of mother tincture remaining. Granules: spherical ‘poppy seeds’ of pure sucrose. This includes the Introduction. Spherical globules of pure sucrose.and pressure.3. It has the full acceptance of the French Government. The 8th edition of the French Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia was published in 1965 and was re-edited in 1983. Subsequent parts will include several 203 . general over-the-counter sale. The Act includes Labeling Regulation. both allopathic and homoeopathic. that ultimately the attainment of a high quality standard is only possible if one can rely on the integrity. It must be emphasized. however. in the developed countries.3. It is important to understand. 6. German and French names. sale and supply of all medicine in the United Kingdom. Medicine Act 1968 And 1971 This Act of Parliament controls the manufacture. deviate from the standard approach. that by the Law of Similars. the 204 . including homoeopathic medicines. qualified staff and quality control procedures. all pharmaceutical manufacture is governed by common procedures termed Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP). homoeopathic procedures must. System of Quality Control Rightly. Only in a few instances. etc. Modern laboratory procedure and systems and quality control do not invalidate Hahnemann’s original precepts nor replace classical procedures. including their indication. common English name. These controls ensure stringent standards in relation to building. in this wisdom. Problems have arisen. in that medicine legislation in most countries was drawn up essentially for allopathic medicines. There is no mystique about the preparation of homoeopathic remedies.for a homoeopathic remedy.e. the practitioner is only as good as his or her medicines. Product Licenses (PL) are granted to approved manufacturers’ where the medicine makes a medical claim or indication. the issues of Manufacturing Licenses.. it requires a scientific system of quality control. had modern advances in scientific knowledge and equipment been available to him. Each monograph gives the formula. however. it is not relevant to speak of clinical indication -that is remedies for the treatment of specific conditions. QUALITY CONTROL The Importance of Quality Nowadays. it is now generally agreed that basic scientific techniques and modern laboratory equipment and procedures are generally applicable to homoeopathy. This Pharmacopoeia will undoubtedly act as a guide for other countries in the future and afford protection for the practice of homoeopathy in the United States. After much discussion. Hahnemann wrote: “A dedicated physician can only be sure about the healing properties of a medicine when it is made as pure and as perfect as possible”.a. equipment and facilities. its preparation and minimum potencies for the prescription. however. i.hundred Monographs of approved (fully ‘proved’) homoeopathic medicines. Indeed. would certainly have taken advantages of them. source. its being carried out by the Department of Health and common European Community Directives are expected to be introduced in January 1993. necessarily. A full review of all homoeopathic medicines. Hahnemann viewed the preparation of the medicines as a science. and as such. Hahnemann. Release of all raw materials from the Quarantine Store for use is made only on the authority of the person responsible for quality control and if they labeled as fit for use. reliability and reproductability of the medicines supplied to the practitioner. Botanical identification of plant raw materials is carried out and. and the objective must always be to guarantee the purity. the training and experience and the commitment of all concerned. This is essentially a team activity in the true spirit of providing a service to homoeopathy. including clean overalls and hats. all clean and free from contamination from any other raw materials or products. not only by manufacturing personnel. Cleanliness High standards of personal cleanliness must be maintained by all personnel and handwashing facilities made available and used regularly. dirt. Written manufacturing procedures are closely followed in each manufacturing step and batch records are completed. At each stage. smoking. 205 . Stringent housekeeping methods must be employed and floors regularly washed and all surfaces where dust and dirt may collect wiped regularly. At each stage. mould or insects. temperature. Thus. they are examined for contaminations. indicating times. to ensure absolute purity and reproducibility. At commencement of each manufacturing step. but also by visitors entering manufacturing areas. Naturally. Specimens may be dried and pressed for retention or photographed. Utensils are washed thoroughly each time after use.involvement. Rejected materials are promptly destroyed. thus monitoring every operation. all equipment is inspected to ensure it is clean and free from contamination from any other raw materials or product. such as other plant species. and even packing materials and even packing materials. Separate changing rooms are provided for this purpose. At any time during manufacturing and packaging of homoeopathic medicines quality control personnel are required to make spot checks and take samples for laboratory analysis. drinking and eating are not permitted in manufacturing areas under any circumstances. Therefore the academic staff of the Institute makes no excuses for discussing this aspect even before the basic principles of homoeopathy. weights etc. . Batch Number The first stage in any quality control system is the allocation of a batch or lot number which can identify the material through each stage of manufacture. including the utilization of raw materials and even packaging materials. may be checked. having established their identity. Particular care is taken in the operation of mother tincture and potencies. the history of each batch. all materials and equipment are carefully labeled to identify the material being processed and each discrete quantity of raw material or product is labeled with a batch number. Clothing Protective clothing. must be worn at all times in manufacturing areas. both qualitative and quantitative. General General precautions to ensure quality which apply to all manufacturing operations include the segregation of processing areas to avoid possible cross-contamination. is critical in 206 . the use of laminar air flow equipment or air conditioning. only mother tincture and low potencies (1x. therefore.is the product finally released from quarantine to the store to await dispatch. 2x) are subjected to a more comprehensive analysis. Sample of each batch of finished product are always retained in the laboratory. this approach is not possible and. This raises a most important point. steroids. etc. amino-acids. with complex mixture including minerals. and all operations carried out in such a way that the risk of contamination is minimized. embracing every step of the preparation. walls and toilets. the extremely high dilutions of homoeopathic potencies make it almost impossible to apply analytical tests by conventional methods in the laboratory. Analytical tests are carried out in the laboratory to ensure that the product meets the finished Product Specification and then. Storage Storage conditions are carefully controlled to ensure the products do not deteriorate before being passed to the practitioner. Finally.Samples On completion of manufacture. all manufacturing records are checked and filled and all equipment utilized in the manufacture is cleaned in accordance with Cleaning Schedules. Furthermore. Even a relatively low potency. it is considered that ‘in-process’ quality control. representative samples of the finished product are taken according to prescribed procedures and labeled with the batch number and identity. water taps. from raw material to finished homoeopathic medicines. Additionally we have the problem of the chemical complexity of the natural extracts contained in the original mother tincture: These may be inorganic or organic. is outside the accuracy of many modern instruments. vitamins.and only then. such as 6x. A recent innovation in the preparation of homoeopathic medicine is the Microbiological Testing by swab or settleplate method to monitor environmental contamination of all manufacturing areas. proteins. We do not know or understand. organo-metalic compounds. alkaloids. which lay down cleaning and inspection operation for each individual item of equipment. all of them at relatively high levels of concentration. yet alone measure. For this reason. flavenoids. the intrinsic forces or vibrations which may play a part in the healing process of homoeopathic potencies. This is an area which presents the greatest challenge to the quality analyst. Quality Control of Potencies We must now consider the problem of quality control associated with homoeopathic potencies. Because of the complexity and the high dilution of homoeopathic remedies. which usually incorporates one or two readily identifiable ‘active ingredient’. Areas tested include laboratory benches. The conventional allopathic approach to quality control in manufacture is to place great reliance on the assay of the final product. with a concentration of individual ‘active ingredients’ of one part per million. 9% by volume). magnesium and manganese. Analysis of Chemical Elements These assays are carried out by conventional chemical methods and can provide a means of identification and a guide to the purity of mother tinctures. or de-ionized water. copper. (ethanol). It is arguable.003 0. An example analysis is given below. which conforms with the U. a plant grown in limestone soil would be expected to have higher calcium content than the same species grown in sandy soil.3 Calcium.S. pH (acidity or alkalinity. depending on the soil in which plants are grown: Categories Iron.9 0. 207 . Use of Alcohol and Water Ethyl alcohol. distilled water.3.005 0. is used in all homoeopathic preparations. per cent 0. selenium. therefore. General Tests These may include dry residue (total solids). per cent 0.005 Nitrogen. water content by Karl Fischer technique and percentage alcohol content.005 Sulphur. Differences in assay occur between mother tinctures prepared from plants grown in different locations. (or B. cobalt. For example. refractive index.ensuring their purity and safety.b. color and smell.00 1. potassium.005 Other trace elements present in low concentration include zinc. (94. Pure. parts per million 16. parts per million Nux Vomica 1. including specific gravity.) specification must be used in all homoeopathic preparations.00 0. and even for low potencies.P. Quality Testing Physical Properties Mother tincture and liquid potencies may be tested routinely for their physical properties. which illustrates the wide variation between different mother tinctures. 6.9 Sodium. parts per million 1500.P. that a system of quality control is even more important than for their allopathic counterparts. each band representing a specific chemical constituent of the mother tincture itself. according to the concise method of naming plant and animal species laid down by the Swedish botanist. homoeopathic remedies are known by an abbreviated form. A comparison of thin layer chromatographs of British. pills (or pilules). CALENDULA OFFICINALIS. The first word describes the plant or animal species. Linnaeus (1708-1778). Nomenclature Medicines are known internationally by their generic name. For example. In spite of this. tables. The second word describes the particular sub-species of the plant or animal. which is then immersed in the mother tincture. for example: RHUS TOXICODENDROM Abbreviation: RHUS TOX. powders. Homoeopathic medicines are available in liquid form. in Latin. Pharmaceutical forms Although the preparation and application of homoeopathic medicines are fundamentally different. in English. In practice. French and German mother tincture showed considerable variation of composition which arises primarily from the variation in the composition of the soil in which the original plant specimen was grown. The common name given is MARIGOLD. we have.Thin Layer Chromatography Thin Layer Chromatography utilities the different migration rates of individual constituents of mother tincture or very low potencies on a thin film of inert material. NATRRUM MURIATICUM Abbreviation: NAT MUR. ointments. their pharmaceutical forms are the same as their allopathic counterparts. creams and suppositories. The inert material is applied to a glass plate. PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA Abbreviation: PHYTOLACCA NUX VOMICA Abbreviation: NUX VOM. Similarly. granules. suitable for administration by the patient. LACHESIS MUTA (or MUTUS). commonly known in English as the Bushmaster Snake (venom). their therapeutic actively is essentially the same. ATROPA BELLADONNA Abbreviation: BELLADONNA CALCAREA PHOSPHORICUM Abbreviation: CALC PHOS. This technique is now widely used and shows characteristic bands on a layer of silica gel of 25-250 cm thickness. such as butanol/acetic or methanol/chloroform over migration distances of about 10 cm. 208 . Various solvent systems have been used. which forms a sediment at the bottom of the container. High potencies such as 10M. The dose should be tipped into the cap of their container and thence tipped onto the tongue. All Containers must be well stoppered. All containers of homoeopathic medicines offered for sale to the public must be clearly labeled. All homoeopathic medicines should have a characteristic alcoholic odor. 209 . 7. Homoeopathic medicines. However. Quality Criteria of Homoeopathic Medicines Discerning pharmacist and physicians must be aware of the following cautionary points in relation to all homoeopathic medicines: 1. dark place away from substances with a strong smell. Stability and Storage of Mother Tinctures Some freshly prepared mother tincture may be supersaturated and particularly during lengthy storage in a cool place. Low potency liquids of insoluble substances. dry spoon may be used. cannot exist and their ‘availability’ is spurious. in a cool. Hahnemannian procedure are doubtful validity. as this is evidence of chemical decomposition of one ore more of its constituents. The presence of alcoholic. as chemicals such as amino acid. 3. homoeopathic medicines are very sensitive. the mother tincture should be rejected. dry. such as garlic or camphor. in the skin may affect them. such as Graphics 6x. essential for the quality and the stability of potencies. It is generally accepted for legal purposes that medicines. Another cause of a precipitate in a mother tincture may be from the evaporation of alcohol through a badly fitting stopper on the container. In this case. This insoluble matter may simply be filtered off and clear filtrate will retain the original activity of the mother tincture.Stability and storage With a relatively low content of medicament. 6. On lengthy storage. but if a total color change occurs the material should be rejected. 50M. physical or electronic tests. 4. amber glass bottles in a cool. a clean. which are properly prepared and stored. Medicine should be stored in amber glass containers. Mother tincture must be stored in well-sealed. 2. can retain their therapeutic activity indefinitely. the clear solution becomes cloudy (producing a precipitate). Certain plastic materials are liable to interact chemically with homoeopathic mother tinctures and potencies. will have nominal ‘shelf life’ of about five years. Trademarks or proprietary names given commercially to single homoeopathic medicines are anathema to homoeopathy. they must not be exposed to sunlight. This has been demonstrated in experiments using infrared spectroscopic techniques. dark place. pilules or granules must not be touched with the hands. properly prepared and stored. 5. Tablets. Alternatively. may be determined by chemical. 3x or Silicea 3x. tincture may darken a little without deleterious effect. the medicine can retain their activity indefinitely if properly stored. claimed to have been prepared by the lengthy. except United Kingdom) Hom.A) Cited References. 2.Symbols in Homoeopathic Pharmacy Θ Mother Tincture MT Mother Tincture C (or c) Centesimal Potency X (or x) Decimal Potency H Hahnemannian K Korsakovian M 1.S. Homoeopathy/Homoeopathic (Homeopathy in U. Diploma course of the British institute of Homoeopathy 1992. Diploma course of the British institute of Homoeopathy 1988. 1.000 N Potency Number CH Centesimal Potency by Hahnemannian Method D Decimal Potency (Europe. 210 .