Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine that was developed in the late 18th century by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann. The fundamental principle of homeopathy is the “law of similars,” which suggests that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can cure those same symptoms in a sick person.
Homeopathic remedies are prepared by diluting a substance, such as a plant extract or mineral, in water or alcohol, and then shaking the mixture vigorously, a process called “succussion.” The resulting solution is then diluted further and succussed repeatedly, creating a highly diluted preparation.
Homeopaths believe that the more diluted a preparation, the more potent it becomes, with the dilution process creating a “memory” of the original substance that is said to stimulate the body’s innate healing abilities.
It is usually recommended that usage of caffeine, coffee, alcohol, spicy foods, tobacco and mint (including mint toothpaste and gum) be avoided when using homeopathic treatments. It is also usually recommended that usage of strong perfumes, soaps, cleaning supplies, and the usage of some essential oils, such as rosemary, thyme, camphor, mint, eucalyptus, and lavender (solution greater than 2%) be avoided during treatments.
Further Reading:
What are nosodes in homeopathy?
What are sarcodes in homeopathy?