History of Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a system of medicine that was discovered by a German physician Samuel Hahnemann in 1796. Hahnemann was not satisfied with the medical practices of his time, especially the usage of harmful substances such as Lead in curing diseases.

The law of Homeopathy is dependent on SIMILIA SIMILIBUS CURENTUR means LIKE CURES LIKE. Although this belief principle has been thought to be in use since the time of the Greeks, Hahnemann structured it into a proper medicinal system. The word Homeopathy originates from a Greek word in which HOMEO means like and PATHOS means suffering.

Hahnemann used some Cinchona bark to treat the symptoms of Malaria. Cinchona bark created the same symptoms as malaria, thus proving the principle of like curing like. Thus, Hahnemann concluded that drugs which are effective, produce symptoms similar to those of the diseases that they treat in healthy individuals.

Homeopathy received its popularity in the 19th Century. The first Homeopathy college was established in the United States in 1835. Hanemman wrote all his findings and symptoms in a book called Organon of the Healing Art published in 1810. In his book Organon, Hahnemann introduced the concept of Miasm which means infectious diseases. According to him there are 3 types of Miasms

1) Psora - It is derived from the Greek Word 'to Scratch'.It is usually described as Skin Diseases as well as mental and emotional problems.

2) Syphilis - In homeopathy Syphilis Miasms are responsible for sexually transmitted diseases,

3) Sycosis - It is derived from the Greek word 'Fig'.It is originally described as Warts, moles, skin cancer, and sinus problems etc.

While treating any disease, the above three Miasms are kept in mind.

Homeopathy consultation is based on detailed medical histories like mood, likes and dislikes, physical and emotional state, eating habits, and lifestyle. Medication is prescribed by the physician based on an understanding of these facets.

The journey of Homeopathy’s acceptability as a serious system of medicine has not been easy, and this article is an effort to give its readers at large a glimpse of the challenges that Homeopathy as a stream has experienced. It is also an attempt to give you all a peek into its methodology its efficacy in treating various diseases.

Stay tuned for more insights about homeopathy and it's effectiveness.