Integrative Homeopathy 101
What Is Homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a system of medicine that takes a highly individualized, whole-person approach to health. Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis, homeopathy considers the unique way each person experiences their symptoms—including physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral changes.​
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Homeopathic remedies are prepared from substances found in nature and undergo a process of serial dilution and shaking known as potentization. Remedies are selected according to the principle of “like cures like,” meaning that a substance capable of producing a particular pattern of symptoms in a healthy person is traditionally used in homeopathy for someone experiencing a similar symptom pattern.
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This individualized approach means that two people with the same diagnosis may receive completely different homeopathic remedies.
The History of Homeopathy
Homeopathy was developed more than 200 years ago by German physician Samuel Hahnemann in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
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Dissatisfied with many of the harsh medical practices of his time, Hahnemann began exploring a different approach to medicine. His observations eventually led to the principles that became the foundation of homeopathy, including the Law of Similars, individualized remedy selection, and the use of specially prepared, highly diluted substances.
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Homeopathy subsequently spread throughout Europe, the United States, India, and other parts of the world and continues to be practiced today.
Classical & Integrative Homeopathy
There are different approaches to practicing homeopathy.
Classical homeopathy traditionally focuses on selecting a single remedy that most closely matches the person's overall symptom picture.
At Arcus, I use an integrative homeopathic approach. My approach is grounded in the foundation of classical homeopathy: identifying a constitutional remedy that reflects the whole person. From there, I build upon that foundation with additional supportive remedies to address the many layers that can be present, particularly in children with complex health histories. The approach evolves over time based on each person’s history, symptoms, and response.
What Are Nosodes?
Nosodes are a specialized category of homeopathic preparations made from biological source materials and prepared according to homeopathic dilution and potentization methods. These remedies can be particularly helpful for children with PANS and PANDAS.
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In integrative homeopathy, nosodes may be incorporated into an individualized homeopathic plan based on a person's history and symptom picture.
Beyond Homeopathic Remedies
While homeopathy is at the center of my work, an integrative approach recognizes that additional support may sometimes be appropriate.
Depending on the individual, I may also discuss nutritional support, supplements, herbal products, lifestyle factors, and other complementary approaches as part of a broader wellness plan.
The goal is not to follow the same protocol for every person. It is to understand the individual and create an approach that reflects their unique needs.