What Is the Origin of Homeopathy Medicine?

Samuel Hahnemann was a German doctor who is known as the father of homeopathic medicine. This form of alternative medicine is based on principles of holistic treatment that not only take into account the patient's history but also his temperament and other characteristics.

Origin

• Though Samuel Hahnemann is considered the father of homeopathy, the concept of homeopathic medicine was developed by Paracelsus, who was a doctor in the medieval ages. This form of alternative medicine emerged as a reaction to the brutal medical procedures followed at the time.

Principles

• The medieval doctors used painful practices like purging and bloodletting along with different kinds of drug combinations. Hahnemann developed homeopathy as a holistic method of treatment, which included an examination of all aspects of the disease including spiritual and emotional, and advised exercise and a balanced diet.

Theory

• The theory on which homeopathic medicine is based is known as the Law of Similars. According to the law, the drugs used created similar indications in the patient that resembled the disease symptoms and helped in strengthening the immune system of the body, which would then oust the disease.

Low Death Rates

• Low death rates were reported in homeopathic hospitals during the great influenza epidemic post-World War I as compared to the conventional medicine hospitals, which had a death rate of 30 percent.

Side Effects

• There are no side effects in homeopathy since it is completely derived from natural ingredients.

Recognition

• Homeopathy reached a pinnacle of popularity in the 19th century. However, after 1867 most doctors started reverting back to allopathy. During the latter half of the 20th century, homeopathy has regained its popularity owing to the side effects of allopathy.