The Most Suitable Cases for Treatment

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Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 1 SIMILLIMUM

Editor: Neil Tessler ND, DHANP Simillimum is a journal published by naturopathic physicians for all people interested in homeopathy. It is dedicated to the practice of classical homeopathy as formulated by Samuel Hahnemann in the Organon of Medicine. The editors encourage homeopaths of all professions and backgrounds to write. Accounts of cured cases, essays, articles and letters to the editor are welcomed. The journal is published bi-anually in June and December. Material must be submitted eight weeks prior to publication (the first of April or October) to be considered for the coming issue. General HANP membership is open to everyone, and includes a subscription to Simillimum and access to exclusive content on www.hanp.net..

Contact HANP Office: Kelly Wilkenson, Executive Assistant Neil Tessler, Simillimum Editor PO Box 126 203 2828 152nd St. Redmond, WA 98073-0126 Surrey, B.C. [email protected] Canada V4P 1G6 Phone: 253-630-3338 [email protected] Fax: 815-301-6595 Phone: 604-542-9759

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HANP Board of Directors: John Collins ND, DHANP John Millar ND, DHANP Gregory Pais ND, DHANP Manon Bollinger ND, DHANP Neil Tessler ND, DHANP Stephen Albin ND, DHANP Brent Mathieu ND, DHANP President: Neil Tessler ND, DHANP Executive Assistant: Kelly Wilkenson

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX Simillimum (ISSN 1526-1964) is published bi-anually by the Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians PO Box 126 Redmond, WA 98073-0126. The HANP is a non-profit organization with no owners or stockholders. Subscription price in USA is $50 ($47 for subscription, $3 for dues), Canada $55 ($52 for subscription, $3 for dues) and outside North America $65 ($62 for subscription, $3 for dues). Periodicals postage paid at Kent, Washington and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send Address Changes to Simillimum, c/o HANP PO Box 126 Redmond, WA 98073-0126 [email protected].

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 2 

EDITORIAL: Neil Tessler ND, DHANP...... 6 WHAT IS THE TRADITION? : INTERVIEW WITH JEREMY SHERR - PART 2 Neil Tessler ND, DHANP...... 10 QUIET AT KEOTHEN Gheorghe Jurj MD (Romania)...... 27 DISPELLING MYTHS ABOUT HOMEOPATHIC PRACTICE by Todd Rowe MD, MD(H), CCH, DHt & Iris Bell MD, MD(H), PhD...... 43 THE SHADOW OF PTSD IN CHRONIC DISEASES: A CASE Tim Shannon ND...... 59 PSYCHIATRIC MEDICATIONS AND HOMEOPATHY: A JOURNEY THROUGH BIPOLAR DISORDER Jennifer Smith, ND, DHANP & Kathleen Farrar, Psy.D...... 80 DIVIDED FACE: A CUPRUM CASE Jennifer Smith, ND, DHANP...... 88 WALKING THE TALK: DEMONSTRATING THE UNDERLYING UNITY OF MEDICINE by Jerry M. Kantor, Lic. Ac., MMHS...... 95 LAC CAMELI DROMEDARI: CAMELʼS MILK Conducted by Nadia Bakir ND FCAH DHANP CCH August 1998 Saeid Mushtagh ND, Laura Buckle ND and John Margaritis ND...... 115

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 3 SEVEN STEPS TO SUCCESSFULLY MARKETING YOUR ALTERNATIVE PRACTICE Judy Seeger ND...... 138 REVIEW OF MASSIMO MANGIALAVORIʼS SEMINAR: PANIC Michael Glass MD...... 142 JAN SCHOLTEN IN SAN FRANCISCO Elena Cecchetto...... 146 BOOK REVIEW: TOBACCO AN EXPLORATION OF ITS NATURE THROUGH THE PRISM OF HOMEOPATHY Writen by Richard Pitt...... 151 EXCERPT: TOBACCO COMMENTARIES ON TOBACCO AND THE PROVING Writen by Richard Pitt...... 153 BOOK REVIEW: EXPERIENCE OF MEDICINE 1 THREE HOMEOPATHIC PROVINGS FROM THE STUDENTS OF NATURE CARE COLLEGE SYDNEY AUSTRALIA Coordinated and Compiled by Alastair C. Gray...... 158 BOOK REVIEW: MONERA KINGDOM BACTERIA & VIRUSES SPECTRUM MATERIA MEDICA VOLUME 1 Writen by Frans Vermeulen...... 164 BOOK REVIEW: HOMEOPATHY: AN A TO Z HOME HANDBOOK Writen by Alan V. Schmukler...... 167 CLASSIFIED...... 169 DIRECTORY OF DIPLOMATES ...... 169 AUTHOR GUIDELINES & ADVERTISING RATES ...... 173

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 4 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 5 Editor: Neil Tessler ND, DHANP Graphic Design: Jason McMillan of Neosonic Design Corp. Copy Proofing: Jennifer Gully

Cover: Nicotiana Rustica L.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 4 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 5  Neil Tessler ND, DHANP

Dear Reader

With this issue in hand, I am now stepping back as Editor of Simillimum. The journal will continue under very capable leadership as will be seen. The enormous commitment of time and attention required for the gathering of advertising and material, editing and construction of every issue must now be put aside in favor of other projects. It has been an enormous responsibility and an enormous privilege and I will miss many aspects of the opportunity it has offered. Sincerest thanks to everyone who warmly supported our efforts with their subscriptions, contributions, interviews, etc. Particular thanks to Gregory Pais and Krista Heron for important reflection on cases and commentaries.

I continue to be of the opinion that a journal should be one of the central information resources for the profession. It is the place ordinary practitioners can share their experiences, learn about those of others, gain insight on remedies and cases, enjoy interviews with leading teachers, learn about new literature, etc. We all should cherish and support our journals. The journal is as good as the contributions. The more practitioners take the time to share their experiences, the better the journals are likely to be. There are also special benefits to reviewing our cases carefully for publication. A lot is learned on careful reflection that might be missed in the onrushing flow of cases. Like essays in school, it seems a chore at the time, but ultimately there is learning and skills are developed.

Comments on the Sherr Interview Part 2

I came into the editorial position on the heels of a struggle over the former direction of the journal, which had become enmeshed in the ongoing controversy over methodology that was particularly active at that time.

The previous editors had very strongly favored a traditionalist position and my quest was to bring balance back to the discourse. The fact is that the majority of practitioners are studying with one or another or several modern teachers. Many of these students are senior practitioners with considerable training and experience. Their books and conference presentations have

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 6 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 7 powerfully spoken to the practical applicability of new knowledge in homeopathy. The majority of the diplomats of the HANP are also involved with one teacher or another of a more progressive standard. So it only seemed logical that the journal should reflect these trends.

We have been happy to publish interviews and reviews of literature from the most apparently conservative and the purportedly progressive. There are great things we can learn from all of them. As far as the majority of practitioners are concerned, none are the standard bearers of absolute truth in homeopathy.

Among many progressive teachers of the current generation, I would also count Henny Heudens-Mast, Paul Herscu, Jeremy Sherr, Vega Rozenberg, and Andre Saine; all conservative within their relationship to homeopathy, but highly creative and original in various aspects of their approach.

Dr. Paul Herscuʼs two-volume, Provings, published several years ago contains an entire chapter devoted to a critique of Jeremy Sherrʼs Dynamics and Methodology of Homeopathic Provings. The interview with Jeremy in this issue presents his first public response. In all fairness, someone who is serious about this kind of discussion, and takes the time to read Jeremy completely, should also review Paulʼs book. It is important to consider his point of view on its own terms and appreciate Herscuʼs scholarship and aptitude. The second volume of Paulʼs book contains a wide selection of authors on the subject of provings, making the total collection a valuable contribution.

Letʼs be clear that there is nothing inherently wrong with intellectual disagreement and argument. Debate is extremely valuable for better comprehension of controversial issues, for the airing of ideas. The audience need not get too emotionally involved. The content is the important part.

The individuals involved are among the prodigies of the modern generation. What can we ordinary folk learn from the Clash of Titans? In this instance, Iʼd say a lot. Jeremyʼs words are often illuminating and thought provoking, addressing many aspects of the philosophy and practice of provings.

Alastair Grayʼs comments printed as part of the review to his first volume of three homeopathic provings are very pertinent, as he considered both Jeremy and Paul and found value in each. This is the usual way information is received by practitioners, who are often quite willing to test for what is truly useful or otherwise sift for that which resonates.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 6 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 7 Neil Tessler ND, DHANP is a Diplomate of the HANP since its founding year. He is a lecturer at the Vancouver Homeopathic Academy and has been in full-time practice in British Columbia for twenty-two years. He has been serving as editor of Simillimum since 2002 and also serves as the President of the HANP.

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Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 8 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 9 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 8 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 9     Interview with Jeremy Sherr Pt. 2 Neil Tessler ND, DHANP

NT: Paul Herscu, in his two-volume book published last year, titled Provings offers an entire chapter to a critique of your Dynamics and Methodology of Homeopathic Provings. I would like to cover some of the points he makes and offer you the opportunity to respond. It is my belief that two respected homeopaths, both leaders in the field, discussing the differences in their logic and approach to homeopathy, in this instance, specifically homeopathic provings, will prove to be fertile, not just as an either/or, but because the discussion is bound to elucidate a number of aspects of homeopathy and homeopathic philosophy.

Proving definition NT: Herscu emphasizes that the problem of your approach to provings, is that you never define precisely what is a proving. He himself defines a proving as analogous to a follow-up. He states that “a proving is nothing more than giving a potentized substance, just as we give remedies every day in our offices and conduct careful follow ups every day with patients. Period.” He suggests using as tools the list in the back of Vithoulkasʼ Science of Homeopathy, which is a description of follow up analysis. Herscu states that his Stress and Strain and Cycles and Segments models are the first definition to address provings.

JS: I find Herscuʼs emphasis on a definition overstated, and his own definition both lacking and inaccurate. I will address both points.

What is so crucial about a definition? What is Hahnemannʼs definition of a proving? At no place does Hahnemann diverge from his narrative on the subject to give a neat definition of a proving. This is also true of Hering, Lippe, Kent, and all the other great homeopaths, though they nevertheless proved all the wonderful remedies that we use today. What is crucial is a thorough understanding of provings, philosophically and practically, and the capacity to apply these in practice. That is what the ʻDynamics and Methodology of Provingsʼ is about. This book contains an extensive discussion on the nature of provings, based on classical writers and my own experience, which is now more than thirty full Hahnemannian provings.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 10 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 11 I have had a lot of very positive feedback from homoeopaths using my instructions, regardless of the presence or not of a definition.

In fact on page thirty-two I give a partial definition, namely “A proving is an artificial epidemic.” It seems that Herscu missed this definition.

For those who are not clear what an artificial epidemic is, let me expand on this: ʻPrescribing a remedy to a group of relatively healthy people in order to infect them with a collective malady and to record the sum total of its effects as the indication of its curative action.ʼ

That there is a relationship between provings and follow-ups, as Herscu correctly says, is stating the obvious. But this is not a definition, far from it. The relationship between provings and remedy reaction is discussed extensively in the Dynamics and Methodology of Provings. I explain the main remedy reactions and their relationship to provings, including homeopathic, allopathic, antipathic and near similars. I base my understanding of this subject on Hahnemann and Kent. If Herscu prefers the Vithoulkasʼ model of remedy reaction he is welcome to use it, but personally I find it impractical and not applicable to provings.

As to Herscuʼs definition of proving as “careful follow ups with every day patients. Period.” I must say that I find this both inaccurate and inadequate. Such a definition is only a part of the whole picture, just as an egg is only part of a cake. I will explain:

Although there is a relationship between provings and remedy reaction, this does not mean that provings are the same as clinical follow-ups. There are many additional factors - hence Herscuʼs attempt is too imprecise to be a definition. It does not take into account the following:

1. Clinical follow-ups are done on sick people. A proving is done on relatively healthy people. The intention is opposite – you aim to make healthy people sick and not sick people healthy. This is a fundamental difference. 2. In the clinic you aim to give a simillimum, in a proving you hope not to. This is another fundamental difference. 3. In the clinic the remedy is chosen specifically for the patient, in a proving it is random to the prover. 4. Provers and supervisors are looking for symptoms while practitioners and patients are looking for cure. People usually see what they look for, just as the clinician often perceives inadvertent provings as aggravations or ʻeverything coming outʼ. 5. As a result of the above you are likely to see a much wider variety of reactions than when remedies are relatively well chosen to match the patient. Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 10 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 11 6. In a proving you supervise daily. In a clinic you check the patient after four to six weeks. Thus you miss the finer nuances of primary reaction. 7. In a proving you prescribe the same remedy to many people at the same time. This never happens in clinic. 8. A collective proving has the power of an epidemic, which is much greater than a clinical prescription. 9. Provings are edited collectively ʻAs if one personʼ. 10. In a proving there is collective intention to prove, which amplifies the proving effect considerably. Do not underestimate that.

From the above it should be clear that if we were to amend Herscuʼs narrow definition of provings as ʻclinical follow-upsʼ, this would bealmost correct only in the case of a follow-up in which the clinician was a poor prescriber with fairly healthy patients and he gave them all the same remedy at the same time, and followed up daily with the intention of recording all their aggravations and editing them as if they were all one person. Whew!

Divorced from philosophy

NT: Herscu argues that your book, which is wholly on provings and does not include the rest of homeopathic philosophy, is inimical to the homeopathic way, suggesting that this causes “a complete divorcing of provings from the rest of homeopathy” and that this results in a lack of definition of provings and methodological errors.

JS: The first and larger half of theʻDynamics and Methodologyʼ, is about dynamics, i.e. the philosophy of provings. In this section I discuss many philosophical issues that relate directly to provings, for instance the nature of provings, the difference between a proving and a simillimum, remedy reaction, epidemics etc. A proving book that includes all of homeopathic philosophy would cover a few volumes and be very cumbersome for those who want to investigate provings. I am writing an extensive book on philosophy, but ʻDynamics and Methodologyʼ is a book about provings, so I confine myself to what is relevant.

There are many books, including those of Herscu, that address specific aspects of homeopathy. We have books on miasms, second prescription, treating cancer and many other subjects. None of them include the whole homeopathic philosophy. Herscu wrote a book on children remedies. Should I complain about him not including adult remedies too, or maybe not writing about every remedy in the materia medica? Does his book on Stramonium include the whole materia medica or philosophy? Does his book on provings address the whole of homeopathic philosophy? Does it include acute and chronic disease, miasms, dissimilars and epidemics? Of course not! It is undesirable and inefficient to include everything in one book. Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 12 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 13 Every prover getting symptoms NT: Herscu criticizes the fact that in some of your provings every prover develops symptoms. He asserts that there must be individual susceptibility to the remedy for a reaction to occur. He states: “The concept of proving, of testing one substance at one time, disappears once you eliminate individual susceptibility.”

JS: It is a fundamentally incorrect to think that individual susceptibility is essential to developing symptoms in a proving. Of course susceptibility will influence the nature of the symptoms that develop. But not being specifically or individually susceptible to a proving remedy will not preclude the appearance of symptoms. I did not understand this either until I read the Organon carefully. Paragraphs thirty-two and thirty-three of the Organon clearly explain the difference between natural disease and artificial disease, which includes provings. In artificial or medicinal disease,every person is affected at all times unconditionally, regardless of susceptibility. This is Hahnemannʼs experience and I have verified it repeatedly. Paragraph thirty-one states that only in natural disease, people are affected conditionally according to susceptibility and circumstances. Provings do not need a high level of susceptibility to develop symptoms because they are a stronger dissimilar disease (Par 35-42), and stronger dissimilar disease could not care less about susceptibility. If, as Herscu erroneously claims, provings needed individual susceptibility to develop symptoms, we would have very unproductive provings; the proving remedy would have to be a similar or simillimum to match the susceptibility, and therefore provide a great curing but a poor proving. The ideal proving is at approximately twenty to sixty degrees off maximum susceptibility.

It goes without saying that we need a general susceptibility to produce symptoms, but fortunately for provings we all have that: It is called Psora.

Most provers develop symptoms, but not all. Though I have not done the statistics, I remember approximately one out of every twenty provers seeming to have no symptoms. But the fact is that majority of provers do get symptoms. Anyone who carefully observes a good proving will verify this.

NT: Herscu states that a good simillimum is a good proving. What do you think about this?

JS: A proving, by definition, is never a simillimum. I explain this in detail in my book. Provings make healthy people sick, not sick people healthy.

Provings by definition lead to the development of new symptoms never experienced before, as all would agree (even Herscu in his book). New

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 12 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 13 symptoms are never the result of a simillimum, they are always the result of non-similars (Organon Par 156, 249, 256, Chronic Diseases etc). Therefore a proving is never a simillimum. If the proving remedy is a simillimum, resulting in cure, you will naturally get old symptoms, and these are not considered valid proving symptoms unless they are very old (Par 138).

Of course, hitting a random simillimum happens in every proving, but these curative remedies are not very useful for developing the proving picture, because they are negative symptoms rather than positive ones. It is much less definitive when someone says, “My usual headache has vanished,” than when they say, “I have a right-sided burning headache in the afternoon.” Furthermore the tendency of a remedy to remove a symptom is less precise than its tendency to create one. A remedy might cure a headache even if it is only a partial similar. That is why provings are done on healthy people and are not like follow-ups.

Let me clarify once again; the idea of a proving is to make healthy people sick, and not sick people healthy, as Herscu advocates. This is why he compares them to giving a remedy in the clinic and doing a follow-up, but this understanding is not accurate.

Susceptibility is related to natural disease only. Herscu ignores important and relevant homeopathic philosophy when he relies only on susceptibility to understand the development of proving symptoms. Medicinal disease and provings will be similar or dissimilar according to the random relationship of the prover to the remedy. If they are dissimilar they will affect the prover providing they are a stronger dissimilar, with no regard to susceptibility (Par 36-39).

There are two reasons that provings are stronger dissimilars. First, as Hahnemann explains in Paragraph thirty and thirty-two, we can create stronger dissimilar artificial diseases by controlling the dose, which is what we do in a proving. Second, because group provings are a collective effort and act like an epidemic, they acquire the amplified power of an epidemic, and epidemics are stronger dissimilars nearly every time. They walk right over non- susceptibilities. So provings affect most provers and even those people in close proximity to the proving, such as placebo provers.

Finally, Hahnemann says that provings will be distinctly perceptible in every case, regardless of susceptibility. He explains that we can either increase the dose, as Vithoulkas advocates, or increase our power of perception through close supervision (Par 32), which is my preference.

The point is that you can do a proving on any substance, for example plastic or plutonium or salt, and just about everybody will be affected. However, Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 14 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 15 those symptoms are not always distinctly perceptible, meaning they may be very subtle. There are two ways to deal with this. One is to increase the dose, i.e. give large quantities of salt, or plutonium, or plastic - and you will definitely get noticeable symptoms. The other is to increase our capacity to observe the provers. I choose to increase observation because I donʼt want to induce pathology in provers. Increasing observation requires that every person is carefully supervised on a daily basis, and attends two proversʼ meetings.

Placebo provers NT: Herscu is highly critical of the practice of accepting symptoms from those who are involved in the proving, but have not taken the remedy.

JS: I have no such practice. These symptoms were never accepted into any of my provings. They are displayed on the side, usually in the anecdotal section, and distinctly marked as placebo, for the reader to compare. Otherwise how would we know a priori that they were placebo symptoms, as opposed to an epiphenomenon?

Herscu also endorses the use of placebo in provings, but to what purpose? If we use placebo but do not let the reader see and compare the effects, then what is the point of doing it? How can we otherwise evaluate what the placebo effect is? It is fine to include any of these “placebo” symptoms alongside the proving, as long as they are distinctly marked as anecdotal, placebo, or supervisor. And that is the case in any proving I have ever published. Homeopaths are now free to ignore, compare, study or use these symptoms according to their individual preferences and understanding. Of course, these symptoms are NOT put into final materia medica or repertory; I would hope that this is clear to everyone.

However, if Herscu is making a prior assumption that placebo provers should experience nothing, this is a further mistake from several points of view. In the first place, prior assumptions are prejudiced and therefore not scientific. In conventional RCT trials researchers compare verum to placebo because they assume the placebo takers will have no symptoms and represent zero effect. But not only is this theory now outdated, it certainly does not apply to collective provings with dynamic remedies. Furthermore, if placebo takers in an RCT trial did develop symptoms, one would hope they would be published too.

If you ask Rajan Sankaran, Misha Norland, Divya Chabra, Anna Schadde, and many others who have done multiple provings they will confirm the curious phenomenon that placebo provers and supervisors have significant symptoms. But they let you decide for yourself if you want to evaluate them or not, rather than ignoring or suppressing them. The observation of

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 14 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 15 very many homeopaths cannot be ignored.

I recently published a study on provings, undertaken together with Professor Harald Walach from the University of Freiburg, who is an expert on research in alternative and complementary medicine. We found that a statistically significant non-local effect was shown, meaning that the proving affected placebo provers with symptoms of the remedy. This study was later repeated with similar results.

The question arises as to why would Herscu bother to use placebo provers, if he is so sure theyʼre not going to get symptoms? What happens if they do get symptoms? Two possibilities: Either he will eliminate them due to a prejudiced notion that it is impossible for placebo provers to be affected, in which case no one can evaluate the data, or he will claim that these symptoms are background noise, a major point of concern in his general approach to provings, and therefore eliminate all similar symptoms. This would be a huge mistake, because if the proving has affected the placebo group, as many experienced provers have observed, you have just eliminated some very significant symptoms!

As a scientist, the name of the game is to observe and interpret, not change the facts, however unusual they are. If placebo provers and supervisors get symptoms, then this has to be noted as a fact of the proving experience. Should we say, “Donʼt confuse me with the facts,” or assume that these people are unreliable or lying about their symptoms. Which shall we choose? In my experience, homeopaths are very reliable because they want to produce the best for the profession. Itʼs amazing to see how placebo provers in a triple-blind experiment produce significant symptoms clearly related to the substance and totality. Shouldnʼt we investigate this phenomenon, rather than hide it from the reader?

Being a true scientist does not mean making ʻa prioriʼ assumptions, but trying to understand what happens in reality. It is the prejudice of science to the potency issue that prevents it from accepting homeopathy. They say, “Homeopathy canʼt work because it doesnʼt fit into our paradigm. It is beyond Avogadroʼs number and therefore it is nonsense.” What scientists should say is; “This phenomenon happens, now letʼs try and explain it.” We homeopaths should not repeat the same mistakes in our own ranks.

My understanding of this placebo or non-local effect phenomenon is that a proving is an artificial epidemic and epidemics areinfective . When you infect the collective vital force with a dynamic proving, that infects anyone in the physical or energetic proximity. I call this induction, and it is a well- known phenomenon. Start ten pendulums in a room swinging in different frequencies, theyʼll synchronize to the same frequency. Ten women living in the same house will menstruate at the same time. If you infect one Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 16 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 17 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 16 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 17 person with a disease or with an idea, nearby people will resonate in some way and produce symptoms.

Hahnemann says that psora is the most infectious disease in the world. All a midwife has to do is look at that baby and it will be infected with psora. Now how does that happen, how does she infect that baby with psora by just looking at him? How does a placebo prover get infected? These are things we should think about, otherwise we get pulled back into a rigid paradigm, like so many disciplines that use the language of science, but have violated its spirit.

When a group of people are connected in some way, they start to build a communal vital force, and are easy to infect. For this reason I conduct provings with groups that have studied together for two years, because this creates a communal vital force. The provers also feel much safer. Some proving masters use randomly assembled or even paid provers, or unconnected groups in different countries, and these proving will not be as effective. According to his book, Herscuʼs proving of Alcoholus was given to unconnected groups of people and spread out over a five-year period with no proversʼ meeting. In such a way you would lose much of the epidemic effect which creates a totality of ʻas if one person.ʼ

Proving on a well-integrated group amplifies the proving. This is how you form an integrated totality, like a beehive or a school of fish. All the bees form a giant organism, all the fish turn at exactly the same moment. This is because they from a collective and unified totality from being in close proximity.

Looking back on many of my provings, I realize how profoundly they affected my life at the time, in ways I could not perceive while I was in them. It is as if life reflected the particular proving I was doing, as did the creative works or books I wrote at the time. Many provers have noticed this.

In this regard I must comment that Herscu has repeatedly and publicly stated that I have claimed that the proving of Adamas effected a change of regime in South Africa. I can categorically say that I have never thought or said anything of the sort! I have, however, pointed out the interesting parallels between the essential nature of this proving and the imbalanced apartheid regime, and the curious synchronicity of the proving being conducted in South Africa in the same year that this regime came to an end. There is a big difference between these two statements.

Choosing symptoms NT: Herscu writes: “There are no descriptions in the book as to which

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 18 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 19 symptoms to take.”

JS: On pages 76-78 of Dynamics and Methodology I describe in considerable detail, what symptoms to include and what symptoms not to include. This section is based on the Organon and other historical sources, as well as my own experience. Herscu has freely quoted this section in his book. Iʼm not claiming to have created a new method. Everything I wrote is based on Hahnemann, Hering and the other great provers of homeopathy, and therefore I stand by it with confidence.

Therefore I am puzzled by this assertion, unless he is criticizing me for not selecting symptoms according to his model of Cycles and Segments. This is unscientific and has never before been seen in homeopathic philosophy. Choosing symptoms according to oneʼs perception of the remedy is simply prejudiced and unacceptable. Imagine if I chose only those symptoms fitting ʻVerbʼ analysis. Imagine Sankaran selecting symptoms based on his miasms, or Scholten accepting only those symptoms fitting his model. Imagine scientists doing RCTʼs selecting only those effects that match their expectations? Pharmaceutical companies are getting sued for that. This is the cart pulling the horse and I really find it very disturbing. I think Hahnemann and Hering would do back flips in their graves.

I wonder if there is some confusion between choosing symptoms and filtering out symptoms that do not fit his model. More problematic is his advocacy of doing this filtering at the prover - supervisor stage (individuals supervising provers, not conducting the proving), meaning that those filtering out symptoms have insufficient experience. Hahnemann says in Paragraph 142 that this operation “is a subject appertaining to the higher art of judgment, and must be left exclusively to masters in observation.” i.e., not provers or supervisors.

Furthermore, these supervisors have not perceived the whole proving, so they are basing their filtering on a fragment of the proving. Imagine two provers getting an interesting symptom, but the supervisor decides to filter it out before it gets to the Principle Investigator (PI), as Herscu suggests. Now the PI will never know that two provers had the same symptom and the supervisor might eliminate both.

Herscu suggests that if symptoms donʼt fit his model, the PI should keep primarily those symptoms that are common to several provers. If you follow this method, many valuable individual symptoms will be lost. By definition, it is the unique symptoms of one individual that make the characteristic, strange, rare and peculiar of a remedy. Using only symptoms of several provers will lead to the results being as flat as old champagne!

In addition, Herscu recommends choosing symptoms that match the Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 18 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 19 toxicology of the substance. This is reminiscent of Hughes, who emphasized toxic provings. Herscu apparently assumes that provings in potency will not produce a range of symptoms that have no echo in the toxicology. Since I have collected the toxicologies of Scorpion, Brassica, Chocolate, Germanium, Plutonium and Taxus, I can say unequivocally that there is much more to a proving than symptoms directly related to toxicology. I donʼt think that anyone poisoned by phosphorus developed a desire for ice cream or fear of thunderstorms.

Eliminating a symptom because it doesnʼt fit your perception of the remedy is extremely prejudiced. In his zeal to be over scientific Herscu, according to his book, scratched eighty-five percent of his proversʼ symptoms! It takes a long time to perceive the totality and meaning of a new proving, and different people have different ways of understanding. If another homeopath was the PI of Herscuʼs proving, and used another method of filtering, we would get a totally different picture. Herscuʼs technique eliminates the possibility of each homeopath being able to understand the proving in their unique way. Herscu believes that his Cycles and Segments should be a universal method, but it is not up to the PI to dictate how we should perceive a proving.

It seems that the thread going through Herscuʼs book, which he calls philosophy, is in reality only his model of Cycles and Segments and Stresses and Strains. I have no comment about this model. A model is only a model, a way of perceiving the world. It is just a tool, and it has uses and limitations. But it is never a philosophy and should certainly never be used as a filter of truth.

Doubtful symptoms NT: Herscu states that doubtful symptoms are included too easily. He is concerned that many proving symptoms may be due to ʻbackground noiseʼ.

JS: This is of course a possibility. Many events occur in our lives that have no obvious connection to the proving. Maybe a grandmother dies, or we win the lottery, or our Venus is square to Neptune. This is only natural. For this reason I have many stages of careful elimination during the proving. All my provers are homoeopaths and most are practicing. They are very aware of the possibility of random events. Each prover has their case taken before the proving and writes down their normal symptoms for a week before the proving begins to provide a baseline. Following this, they are interrogated daily by supervisors, thereby providing an extra filter. The proving is then carefully edited by experienced homeopaths, taking great care to eliminate events that are definitely unconnected to the proving. However, at these early stages you do not know what is random and what has some connection to the overall pattern. These things only become

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 20 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 21 clear once the overall pattern is revealed, and this takes time and clinical experience. If we leave something out due to fear of background noise, we also risk losing an important symptom.

When I was a beginner with provings I was also overcautious about this. In fact in the first edition ofDynamics and Methodology I wrote, “If in doubt leave it out.” But in the next edition I will revise that rule. This debate raged in homeopathy in the nineteenth century, and the verdict of Hering and other masters was, “If in doubt leave it in.” Initially I didnʼt want to include symptoms I was not sure about, so I nearly eliminated the ʻDesire to move to the countryʼ out of Chocolate and the ʻmeeting with Godʼ out of Hydrogen. According to Herscuʼs criteria these would be gone. I canʼt begin to tell you how many symptoms I doubted that later proved to be clinically important. But thankfully, based on the mastersʼ teachings, I decided to keep them in. On the other hand, in the first Brassica proving we used over-stringent criteria. The proving was so flat that it was unusable. I had to do it again.

Let me give another small example. In the proving of Neon I had a peculiar symptom. I woke in the night with coryza pouring from my nose, and to my great surprise it glowed in the dark. I thought it was very strange and apparently so did my supervisor, because he entered ʻDelusion his catarrh glows in the darkʼ. The symptom nearly got edited out due to over zealous editing. Since then I have had clinical confirmation of this symptom in four cases. Recently I saw a patient who I have treated for many years with little results. Finally she volunteered the strange symptom of glowing catarrh. I gave her Neon with excellent overall results. It is a shame when so many good symptoms get hacked out due to over-scientific paranoia.

In Par 138 Hahnemann says: ʻAll the sufferings, accidents and changes of the health of the experimenter during the action of a medicine are solely derived from this medicine, and must be regarded and registered as belonging peculiarly to this medicine, as symptoms of this medicineʼ. Note the words ʻAllʼ and ʻAccidentsʼ. ʻAccidentsʼ is a translation of the German Zufal, which literally means ʻto fall upon oneʼ, or a ʻbefallmentʼ, in other words a coincidence. There is a very fine line between random coincidence and synchronicity. And it is impossible to tell which is which at an early stage. All I can say is that when you experience many provings, you learn to see how meaningful many of these incidents are. If the odd symptom turns out to be random background noise, it will not spoil the proving, because it is the meaningful totality that counts.

The old provings are full of fleeting and momentary sensations and emotions of single provers, because the older generation understood the wisdom of Hahnemannʼs instructions and followed them. Most of the symptoms in our materia medica that have become characteristic keynotes Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 20 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 21 were symptoms of this kind. The haughtiness of Platina, the isolation of Camphor, the dictatorial nature of Lycopodium, all based on a single proverʼs experience. There are many more examples like that.

I have understood that a proving is NOT a final material medica. A proving is a suggestion for materia medica and can never be a one hundred percent final document. Every additional prover will add new symptoms. Therefore, if the new prover werenʼt part of the proving, we would not know these symptoms, so how can a proving be a final document? Likewise there is always some background noise.

For this reason materia medicas should be finalized based on clinical experience. More importantly, not every proving symptom should be included in the repertory immediately. This is a common mistake with new provings these days - every little symptom is added into the repertory by repertorizing experts who do not really understand the proving, or by proving experts who are not expert repertorizers. This is a serious problem. My solution is to mark out the symptoms that I know to be definite and meaningful for the experts to repertorize. Hence you do not see Germanium or Neon or Plutonium flooding the repertory like so many other new provings. This is where the filters are applied.

Herscuʼs mistake is trying to apply conventional scientific methodology to provings, and this kind of science chokes a good proving. A proving is very different from a conventional RCT, in which the statistical predominance and repetition of a phenomena increases its significance. It is the unique symptoms of the individual, often very subtle, that make a rich and useable proving. ʻLess is moreʼ applies to provings, too.

Constitution NT: Could you make some comment on references to the constitution of the prover? Herscu writes that we need to choose provers of different constitutions to bring out a variable picture. He says that this has previously been ignored in every proving but is as important as the remedy chosen. He feels it is important to know the constitutional type of the prover in order to know who might react to the proving substance.

JS: This idea may look good on paper but does not work in reality. It would take many years of treating a patient to be certain of their remedy otherwise it is speculation and conjecture. It would mean choosing a small number of provers out of a large group of possible provers. But where do you find all these volunteers, how exactly do you sort their different constitutions and how long will it take? In my experience all this impractical and unnecessary-all provings show a wide enough variety as it is. There is a

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 22 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 23 huge amount of possible interactions between a random group of people and a proving remedy.

Letʼs say you prove Granatum on a Calc-carb constitution. The proving symptoms will be those shared by Granatum and Calc. If you prove Granatum on a Platina patient, the proving symptoms will be those shared by Platina and Granatum. By proving on many constitutions you get the whole array of totality. But it is also true to say that many of the symptoms will come from deeper unseen layers of the provers, and do not belong to their uppermost remedy. Even if you proved Granatum on ten Calc carb constitutions, there would be a big variety of symptoms, and this will never happen in a random selection of provers.

Herscu suggests emphasizing the symptoms of ʻconstitutionalʼ remedies which are close to the proving remedy. 1. How do you know which remedies are close to the proving remedy, as you donʼt yet know the action of the proving remedy. 2. It is the same error as before, of thinking that a curing (similar remedy) is a proving. He claims that the supposed similarity of proving remedy to constitution will produce new symptoms, but this is in contradiction to known philosophy (Par 249, 256 etc). Similars cure and produce old symptoms. Dissimilars produce new symptoms.

All the remedies that we use and love including Sulphur, Aurum, Calc carb, Lycopodium, Magnesium, Alumina, Platina, Phosphorus, Lachesis, Pulsatilla, Silica etc, are based on provings that had none of Herscuʼs stringent demands; no proving definition, no known proversʼ constitutions, and without selection of symptoms according to a prior model, yet they are outstanding pools of clinically invaluable information.

Potency NT: Herscu states that you “suggest the use of one potency over another.” Any comments?

JS: Really? I canʼt remember or find reference to my ever saying that. In fact I use a wide variety of potencies in my provings, usually 12C, 30C, 200C, LMs and C1,2,3,4.

Herscu repeats Vithoulkasʼ assumption that provings should be done in toxic to medium potencies and then repeated on sensitive provers in higher potencies. I have no problem with this assumption, and I discuss it in my book. This kind of suggested methodology is typical of armchair provers. It sounds nice in theory but is very impractical; it would take years to do one proving and you would end up with an excessive amount of information. More important, it appears to disregard the suffering that the provers have

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 22 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 23 just been through. A proving is not always a walk in the park. How easy do you think it would be to convince oversensitive provers to go through such an experience again in higher potency, with all the time and effort involved?

To my knowledge no such provings have been conducted by anyone in homeopathic history, including Vithoulkas or Herscu, except one recent proving by an Israeli homeopath, Michael Chein. Following Vithoulkasʼ suggested methodology, he did a proving with Ritalin. First he poisoned one group with the actual drug on a daily basis, and later he gave them higher potencies. A second group did a normal proving of Ritalin in potency. Conclusion: No observable difference between the two provings.

Choosing a substance NT. Dr. Herscu writes, “It is true that anything can be proven and anything can become a remedy. It is not true that all remedies are and will be equal. Since Jeremy is so concerned about wasting the energy of our community, he could have and should have laid out the reasoning of why certain things should be proven, as done in Provings, Volume One and as Vithoulkas does in this volume.” What are your thoughts?

JS: Of course it is not true that all remedies are equal. Just like all people are not. They are all different, but they all have a place. Is Herscu advocating that some remedies are not equal and therefore are not valuable? Does that mean we eliminate those that are not equal? Is he suggesting that we should favor Toxic Mercury over non-toxic Pulsatilla and Lycopodium, or mighty Sulphur over insignificantFormica or Bellis? I have never known a decent proving that was not worth the effort. All of natureʼs treasure chest can be used for provings.

I have never expressed a specific concern with the community wasting time and energy, but more to the point, I cannot agree with the implication that the proving of ʻunequalʼ remedies is a waste of time. It is good to prove remedies big and small. Any proving, however minor, can help someone somewhere, and any amount of work is worthwhile for this mission.

Though I always explain my reasons for choosing a particular proving substance, I do not give guidelines for others. I believe that this is a very individual pursuit and I do not wish to dictate to people how they should think, or feel, or choose. People have different interests. People choose substances that they have always been interested in, or by scientific inquiries, or dreams or omens. Who are we to dictate to people what can be proved or not? Who dictated guidelines to Hahnemann that he should create and prove the weird concoctions known as Causticum and Hepar sulph? If we limited the choice of our provings to strict criteria and put it

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 24 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 25 all in neat little definitions, homeopathy would be much poorer.

To my mind, a waste of energy for the community is over-proving remedies. Herscu proved his remedy over five years with one hundred and fourteen people. According to his book he used only fifteen percent of the symptoms. At this rate we would have very few remedies in homeopathy today, and I doubt they would be of more value.

NT: Given the great amount of conflicting ideas and personalities within the micro-world that is homeopathy, do you have any thoughts on the attitudes, the approach, that will allow us to find greater professional harmony and unity of purpose?

JS: Hopefully these comments will lead to learning and better understanding of the subject of provings. There is much diversity in homeopathy today, so we should respect our differences while being able to discuss them openly.

Let me finish with a story.

There was a long-standing Jewish community in which everyone was arguing: “Should we say the main prayer standing up or should we say it sitting down?” They quarreled and fought over this issue for years. It nearly came to violence and was threatening to tear the community apart.

Finally, they decided to go and ask the old Rabbi to establish once and for all what the tradition was. So they went to the Rabbi, who was on his deathbed, and they asked; “Dear Rabbi, you have been our guide for many years. Please tell us the tradition.”

The Rabbi agreed to tell them.

Immediately one group rushes forward and says, “Please, Rabbi, tell them the tradition is to stand up while we pray. That was always the tradition!”

The Rabbi groans, “No, thatʼs not the tradition.”

Then the other rushes forward and says, “Thatʼs right Rabbi! Please, tell them that sitting down was always the tradition! Tell them!”

But the Rabbi, who can barely speak, mumbles, “No thatʼs not the tradition, either.”

Both groups were confused and implored the Rabbi “Please Rabbi, we canʼt go on like this, weʼre killing each other. The community is breaking apart.”

And the Rabbi replied, “THATʼS the tradition!” Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 24 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 25 And thatʼs the tradition in homeopathy. Homeopathy is about individuality: freedom of the individual to be strange, rare and peculiar, and this leads to conflict. Thereʼs a wonderful book calledPioneers in Homeopathy. Itʼs out of print but Iʼm fortunate to have a copy. Itʼs the personal stories of all the homeopaths of Hahnemannʼs time and a few years afterwards –Stapf and Gross and many others that nobody remembers today. The stories are full of the same discussions and arguments about the same issues we have today. Thatʼs the tradition.

Jeremy Sherr was born in South Africa and grew up in Israel. He began his studies at the College of Homœopathy, London, in 1980 and completed a degree simultaneously in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Though he practices classical homœopathy exclusively, his knowledge of Chinese Medicine shines through his homœopathic thinking.

Jeremy was the first to re-develop the science and art of provings after a century of near silence. In 1982 he conducted his first proving of Scorpion, and has since completed 23 Hahnemannian provings, including Hydrogen, Chocolate, Diamond, Salmon and Germanium. These remedies are now well established in our repertories and materia medicas, and are being used successfully all over the world. Jeremyʼs work “The Dynamics and Methodology of Homœopathic Provings” has become the accepted guideline for provings, and has been translated into French, German, Italian and Russian. His latest book, “Dynamic Materia Medica - Syphilis” is an innovative presentation of his unique ideas on philosophy and materia medica that has received excellent reviews worldwide.

Jeremy began teaching while still in college. He taught in most British schools, and began the Dynamis School in 1985. His school is the longest running post-graduate course in the UK. He has taught the Dynamis curriculum throughout Europe and North America, and has lectured in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India and China. He maintains a busy practice in Malvern, New York and Tel Aviv.

He was awarded a fellowship from the Society of Homeopaths in 1991 and a Ph.D. from Medicina Alternativa. He is a Member of the North American Society of Homeopaths, and is an honorary professor of Yunan Medical College, Kunming, China.

Jeremy wishes to extend his special thanks to Tina Quirk for her editorial assistance.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 26    Gheorghe Jurj, MD

The Leipzig period of Hahnemannʼs life had been tumultuous and fiery, as he had to fight in all directions to enforce and consolidate his doctrine. His life was divided between the lectures at the University, patients, provings and responding to the attacks of his opponents. The decision to leave Leipzig was made at the end of 1820, but Hahnemann, hesitated for a time, deciding between Dresden and Saxony.

”By the end of 1820 and at the beginning of 1821 his mind was made up. His only uncertainty was where to go. He hesitated between Prussia and Sachsen-Altenburg” - Haehl, vol. 1, 118

The final decision was determined by the approval, from the Duke Gotha, to prepare and dispense his own remedies: “In a letter to Dr. Aegidi in Düsseldorf (March 18th, 1831) he discusses the enormous value to himself of dispensing his own remedies” - Haehl, vol. 1,118.

Regarding his departure from Leipzig, “certain of his friends and patients, influential citizens, had addressed a petition to the King, and to the municipality of the city, for justice on behalf of the persecuted physician” [Bradford, 131]. A favourable response would come after a further two years.

In the meantime, there were other indications that Hahnemannʼs days at Leipzig were numbered. His academic activity had failed. “The lectures of the winter Semester, 1820 to 1821, … according to Moritz Müller, had been attended in the end by only seven students” [Haehl, vol. 1, 120]. Along with this, the College of Pharmacists prohibited the distribution of his remedies. Finally, Hahnemann realized that he was expending his energies fruitlessly. So, he left Leipzig, a large university city, for a quiet and liberal small town – Koethen, at the invitation of Duke Gotha, the protector of the town: “In the spring of 1821, his Highness, the Grand Duke Frederick, of Anhalt-Coethen, extended to Hahnemann an invitation to accept the post

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 27 of private physician to himself, with free privileges of practice according to the feelings of his heart, within the limits of the Duchy. Hahnemann accepted with thankfulness this honourable and advantageous offer, and, without waiting to see the outcome of the petitions on his behalf, he went to Coethen…”

Here at Koethen, Hahnemann would enjoy a period of calm, of acknowledgement, and a change in the direction of his thought.

Like many small independent German states at the time, with legislative autonomy, the political and ideological atmosphere of Koethen was intellectually permissive, as inspired by a government based on the principles of enlightenment. Here Hahnemann was welcome, as we can see from a narration of that time: “His Highness, the Duke of Anhalt-Coethen, having been pleased to permit Dr. Hahnemann not only to reside there, but also to prepare and dispense his medicines without the interference of apothecaries, the Board of Health at Coethen set a praiseworthy example of impartiality and due regard to the progress of science.” [ Bradford, 132].

The Return to Freemasonry

We cannot exclude the possibility that this act of benevolence was related to the fact that the Duke was also The Great Master of the Masonic Lodge of the Duchy: “The Duke was a Freemason, a fact on which Hahnemann in his letter to Dr. Billig (Supplement 67) lays great emphasis.” [Haehl, vol. I, pg. 119].

It is possible that Hahnemann had become more active as a Freemason. Hahnemann had not been a fervent freemason and his initiation did not go further than the first grade obtained at Hermanstadt. There is no indication that he had received any active social or professional support from the Masonic Lodges though it is well known that the Lodges used to do this very often for their active members. Haehl states that: “After having joined the order in Hermanstadt in 1777 (vide Supplement 9), Hahnemann had become a member of the Leipsic Lodge “Minerva at the Three Palms” in the year 1817. Although not in a position to take a prominent part in the proceedings of the lodge (which is not surprising given his numerous professional obligations), he always considered himself to be a good mason, as we can see from the letter to Dr. Billig.” The letter to which he refers is dated from the period at Koethen.

The power and influence of Freemasonry in this epoch was significant. Their networks could open doors and soften conflicts between “brothers”. If Hahnemann had maintained a stronger connection with Masonic Lodges, Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 28 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 29 many of his wanderings might not have been necessary. It is also possible that his relationship with fellow physicians might have been more amiable, many of them masons themselves. In other words, his struggle may have been mitigated to some extent through greater involvement in the Masonic world.

There are many questions regarding this subject, but the answers we will probably never find: After his Masonic initiation at Hermanstadt, was Hahnemannʼs relationship with Freemasonry as apparently superficial and sporadic as it appears? Until Koethen, we cannot see any help coming from the Lodges. A reference letter from a mason could open many gates, but, for a long period of time, it looks like Hahnemann found only closed ones. He had been wandering for many years from one place to another, bearing with him a bigger and bigger family; his very medical career had been suspended for a significant period. He did not receive medical recognition but rather firm resistance from the other physicians and pharmacists. If he did not have any relations with Freemasonry what might have been the reasons? Was this from Hahnemann or from the Lodges? Could it be that Hahnemannʼs rebellious spirit caused him to hedge his alignment with an organization that could diminish his independence? Is it possible that diverse factors caused Freemasonry to refuse support?

Yet we can infer that, along with the invitation from the Duke of Anhalt- Coethen, the relationship between Hahnemann and Freemasonry warmed. It is likely that the support from the Duke arriving at such a difficult moment for Hahnemann instigated a renewed association with Freemasonry. It also may be possible that Hahnemann, together with the sensation of finally solving “the Leipzig blind alley”, was feeling a “return to the origin” sentiment including his relationship with Freemasonry. Though the evidence overall is slim, yet in a letter from Koethen, Hahnemann wrote: “In the meantime accept a triple kiss from my esteem and love, as from your true friend and Obr.” (authorʼs underline) Dudgeon states: “The letters Obr. found in this letter and others written by Hahnemann probably refer to some title in Freemasonry.” From them, and the manner in which he writes, it is likely that Hahnemann was a Mason.” [Bradford, 131].

The triple kiss is certainly a masonic expression, which probably refers to the idea of trinity as a sign of completeness that comprise the three worlds (material, subtle -admixture of spirit and matter - purely spiritual).

What is the meaning of Obr.? Probably, it is an abbreviation of the title Ober, which means superior, and in the masonic hierarchy could signify Obermeister, which means Great Master. If our suppositions are right, Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 28 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 29 when this letter was written, Hahnemann was not a common apprentice anymore, but he became a Great Master, an advanced and respectable title in Freemasonry, while he lived at Koethen.

At the end of this letter - if Dudgeonʼs credible supposition that Obr. means a masonic title is correct – he is addressing from an obvious superior position: “your true friend and Obr.” (Ober. lit. over = superior) alleviated somehow by the familiar closing, “your true friend”.

From what we have discussed so far, we can say that it is possible and probable that at Koethen, Hahnemann not only resumed his relations with Freemasonry, but he ascended to a higher degree of masonic initiation.

As Haehl and Bradford, Hahnemannʼs great biographers, point out, in his letters from the Koethen period there are numerous expressions and attitudes that refer to or suggest the influence of Freemasonry. For example: “The ever-beneficent Godhead animating the infinite universe dwells in us also and gives us our faculty of reason as the highest, inestimable endowment, whilst from the fullness of His own moral character He implants in our conscience a spark of holiness” [apud.Haehl, 1, 253] or “Even when we depart from this life, the Great, unique and infinite Being, Who suffuses happiness into all men, will continue to instruct us how to approach His perfect blessedness by further acts of goodness and to become more like unto Him till all eternity.[idibem]

Could this renewed relationship contribute to his more accentuated turn into a spiritual conception about diseases and to the introduction of some general concepts, which appear to originate from theoretical assertions rather than from pure empiricism? Could Masonry have been a factor that led him back to esoteric studies? (It is well known that Masonic initiations are accompanied by the study of esoteric symbols and histories.) The hermeneutical exercises, done during the process of progressive initiation, might well have led to a more refined conception about the world and life, contributing to the trend of his later writings.

“The unusually early age at which he entered Freemasonry obviously had its effect on his philosophic and religious views” [Haehl, vol 1, 253]

His relationship with Duke Gotha was strong and multifaceted, determined by a series of historical and personal circumstances. There are at least three pillars that consolidated this relationship. Firstly, the enlightenment and the liberalism of the Duke, who proved independent of Leipzig, inviting and accepting Hahnemann, affirming his political and ideological positions, open to his innovations of medicine and science. Second, there was the Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 30 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 31 Masonic relation between two confreres and finally, the connection between the physician and his grateful patient: “The Duke, who was a great sufferer, (decided to) consult Hahnemann, and try the new method of treatment. The trial succeeded beyond expectation and prepossessed the Duke in favour of Homoeopathy.”[Bradford,131] and: “ He soon became useful to his ducal protector, as is evidenced by the following letter dated March 9, 1824: “Our most serene Duke, who was suffering from a severe nervous attack, is now out of danger, thanks to the successful exertions of Dr. Hahnemann, well-known for his new method of curing.” [ Bradford, 139]

Hahnemann at Koethen “Almost midway between Magdeburg and Leipsic, lying fifty kilometres from these towns and only twenty kilometres from Dessau, the place was then a small country town, with about six thousand inhabitants.” [ Haehl, vol 1, 119]

The Swiss physician Peschier, who visited Hahnemann at Koethen in 1832, describes the ambience of the town: “The little village of Koethen is not lacking in charms; it lies in a valley through which flows a little river, which gives freshness and beauty to the surrounding country. The streets are large and well laid out; the chateau of the reigning Duke, beyond its splendour, offers nothing remarkable; it is situated in a garden open to the public, where many varieties of rare flowers are cultivated with great care.” [ Bradford 132]

Hahnemannʼs dwelling near the palace, was not too large, but enough for him to live comfortably. He used to take rides, had time to meditate, and maintain correspondence with his disciples at various places: “…was taking walks in his little garden, long drives into the surrounding country, writing letters to his many friends and followers, pondering over his new doctrines, and preparing for the press the second edition of the Materia Medica Pura.”

Quite opposite to his agitated life at Leipzig, “Hahnemann lived a quiet and studious life at Koethen. Freed from the incessant irritation of the persecutions of his enemies, with nothing to distract his mind, allowed perfect freedom of opinion and action, he now devoted himself to his important studies.” [Bradford, 137]

It seems that here he reached a certain serenity: “It is related of him that one day a disciple was visiting him in this garden, and seeing its small and narrow space, in which at the time he took all his exercise, said: “How small this much talked of garden of yours is, Hofrath.” Hahnemann responded: “Yes, it is narrow, but,” pointing to the heavens, Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 30 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 31 “of infinite height.”

Hahnemann was invested Hofrath, which means Court Counsellor, on 13 May 1822; this was a title of honour the Duke gave him as a sign of distinction, and with which he often signed his letters. [Bradford,137]. Moreover, the Duke showed him high consideration both in particular and publicly: “The Duke and Duchess thought very highly of him as a physician…. He ordered that an account of his recovery should be published in the Koethen newspaper as Hahnemannʼs achievement. Thus it happened that the cure was reported also in the “Staats-und-Gekehrten-Zeitung des Hamburger unparteiischen Korrespondenten” [ Haehl 123] and: “In official quarters too, the most meticulous consideration was paid repeatedly to Hahnemannʼs desires.” [Haehl, 124]

The period of seclusion at Koethen was a period of well-deserved quiet inside the patriarchal atmosphere of his home and his garden, where he liked to withdraw. In this relative isolation from the exterior world Hahnemann was able to dedicate most of his time and energy to meditations concerning some problems that, as we will see, were directed toward the causal aspect of homeopathy: “His complete seclusion from any active intercourse enabled him to concentrate on the perfectly progressive ideas of his new process of healing. He was able to devote to them all his energy. Thus nothing could hinder him in this task, nobody could divert his attention.” [Haehl, 1, 257]

Withdrawal from Medical Life

Unlike the previous period, when he was at Koethen, Hahnemann gave up the polemic with his opponents, leaving the ongoing battle with the regular system of medicine to his disciples, especially to the devoted Stapf and Gross: “But Hahnemann, like the General Officer Commanding a battle, was hidden away behind the front and usually did nothing but provide the stimulus and the lines of direction for the answering thrust.” [Haehl, 124]

In his seclusion at Koethen, he moved away from the battlefield in the war of two paradigms, and his ecclesiastic tone, in some of the letters from that period, shows that the fight for the advocacy of homeopathy was not very important anymore. Maybe he realised that his doctrine was confirmed and would last forever. In a correspondence addressed to Stapf, dated March 13, 1826, he wrote: “Believe me, all this senseless fighting against the manifest truth only exhausts the poor creatures, and does not stay its progress, and we would do well to allow such trashy, spiteful lucubrations to pass unnoticed; Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 32 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 33 they will without aid sink into the abyss of oblivion and into their merited nothingness.”

In a letter Hahnemann wrote from Paris to Stapf, in 1836, the year after he left Koethen, he reflects on this aspect of the previous era: “I never cared to engage in polemics. If I once broke my resolution (when I attempted in vain to set Dr. Kretzschmar right), I am determined never to do so again. My disciples will perform this duty instead of me, if they have any regard for the propagation of our divine art and for their own honor. No defensive article is needed for me.” [Bradford, 363] (“Never” is actually an example of the Hanhemannʼs rhetorical style; in reality, his writings were always explicitly polemical regarding allopathy, and even then he did not always answer directly to his critics, he did it implicitly and with surplus.)

But he was constantly concerned about the possibility of contamination and distortion of homeopathyʼs principles. In the same letter, he says: “I fear more the empirical contaminations of that society of half- Homoeopaths.”

In the same time, his interest in what was happening in the medical world had diminished. He confessed that he no longer read the medical newspapers, [Bradford 146, Haehl1, 124], not even Hufelandʼs Journal, where he published his first essays. In a letter to Stapf, written in 1826, he says: ʼI still continue to read works on other scientific subjects, but nothing medical except your Archiv. I have not read even Hufelandʼs Journal for years.ʼ”

It would be interesting to know specifically those “other scientific subjects” to which he is referring. It might be mentioned in this regard that while at Koethen he published editions of the Organon, Materia Medica and the first edition of The Chronic Diseases (“While living in Koethen he, published the 3rd, 4th and 5th editions of the Organon and the 2nd and 3rd editions of the Materia Medica Pura.”) Bradford affirms that Hahnemann held an impressive library, with works from history and geography, to which he was very fond, and that he was interested in astronomy, entomology, and natural sciences.

It seems also that his interest in metaphysical philosophy was also increasing. In a letter to Stapf he had written about a German translation of Confucius, that “ has given me great pleasure. …There we read Divine wisdom without miracle-fables and without superstition. It is a remarkable sign of the times that Confucius can now be read by us. I myself will soon embrace, in the domain of blessed spirits, that benefactor of mankind who led us by the straight path of wisdom and to God six centuries and a half before the arch-visionary.” [Bradford, 150]

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 32 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 33 With regard to his chemical studies, we can say that they moved away from the rapidly evolving chemistry of that time and rather closer to alchemy. Writing to Stapf in 1829 about a chemical study, probably regarding the preparation and properties of Causticum (Tinctura Acris in Fragmenta), he says, “it is also a chemical heresy”, and about the same study, after it had been refused to be published, he writes in another letter: “This person has made no concealment of his resolution not to accept my article, as its views are opposed to the traditional teaching. That is just what I feared! What annoyance, what opposition to improvements must we not expect from the orthodox blockheads!” [Bradford, 151]

On the other hand, Hahnemann implored the publisher not to mention his name; even asking him to keep it a secret, although in the chemistryʼs fellowship his works were respected at the time. “I beg of you to keep it secret that I am the author of the Halle article, for if it is known, the sentence of death would be immediately pronounced against it and no one would put it to the proof.”

This concern not to be revealed seems rather surprising given his history. What is the reason for this secretiveness for a man who previously, when it was all about intellectual property and recognition, never backed down? On the contrary, Hahnemann was always extremely proud to assert paternity for his ideas and studies, though occasionally failing (deliberately or unintentionally, remains to be seen) to indicate his predecessors. Here he shows the desire to have ideas dispersed, so that they are more likely to “be put to the proof”.

Increasingly isolated, no longer doing provings, without much interest in the general medicine of his era, “It was natural that in time a serious deficiency and bias should arise in his knowledge, which in their turn led to a deplorable superficiality in warfare.” [Haehl, 124]

More and more datum appeared in his medical writings that was not entirely trustworthy, at least according to some of his critics amongst the homeopathic community: “No confidence can be placed in the voluminous additions to the symptomatology of drugs, which was published by Hahnemann, after his forced retirement from Leipsic to Koethen.” L. Sherman, Nux vomica Am. inst. Hom, 1883, 36th session, part 1. PAGE 207

The author offers his view of Hahnemannʼs later practices:

“He could no longer experiment on his own person or those of his disciples, so his restless ambition led him to record, without stint or curb, the symptoms experienced by his patients while taking the extremely attenuated medicines he was then giving. He abandoned the excellent canon of Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 34 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 35 evidence quoted above.” [Sherman, ibid]

In a response to a review of his Materia Medica Pura, he had published Information for the Seeker after Truth (July 20th, 1825). Haehl remarks: “Unfortunately Hahnemann was again on this occasion induced to commit lamentable exaggerations about the dynamic effects of high potencies.” [Haehl, vol. 1, 125]

Certainly, such a commentary is indicative of the popular views amongst a large number of American homeopaths of that era, which was that the high potencies were a chimera.

In his period at Koethen, Hahnemann contributed to the development of homeopathy as much or more than at any time prior.

“There was some talk of the Masterʼs Carthusian existence at Köthen with his “well-known crabbedness derived from old age and hermeticism”. But all these statements are, to say the least, very one-sided and do not by any means bear witness to a thorough and unprejudiced investigation of the Köthen period. [Haehl, 167]

Hahnemannʼs interest focussed almost exclusively on the nature of chronic diseases. His relative isolation allowed him to concentrate wholly on this momentous issue. As Haehl points out, “…nobody could divert his attention. The elaboration of his therapeutic theory without any extraneous interference is consequently the purest, most original work of his profound investigations and of his abundantly gifted mind.”

Yet, in the meantime, his opinions became sterner and more intolerant: “As a result of his refusal to visit patients and his determination to ignore all the medical literature he became narrower and more intolerant in his views”. [Haehl, 1, 257]

Problems arose with a number of his devoted disciples from the early period. Incontestably valuable allies like Trinks and Hartmann: “Whoever was not unconditionally on his side was considered as his opponent and was rejected by him.”

“From others, such as Hartmann and Griesselich, who had been formerly in close connection with him, he broke away entirely… The most earnest representations and mediations of other friends (Gross and Hennicke) were without avail in this instance.”

Living in isolation, burning bridges with students; it was as if all that was great about the man was now concentrated forward from within his inherent integrity and vision. Like so many geniuses of history who did not mix well Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 34 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 35 with the world, he lived alone, yet richly, in an inner one. His numerous letters and especially the new editions of his capital works presented new challenges for the homeopathic world; and even more, those offerings were to add dramatic additions to what had come before, sending homeopathy in a new direction.

The Twists from the Period at Koethen

In the evolution of Hahnemannʼs conception, violating his radical principles of empiricism is most significant and consequential. Up to Koethen, Hahnemannʼs intellectual profile looked much like one of the great founders of other modern sciences. His conception was based, after all, on the same principles as other sciences: 1) Phenomenology: to take into consideration just the observations and the facts. 2) Firm empiricism: all theoretical assertions were based on experimental facts and experimentally verified. 3) Inductive method: theoretical conclusions ensue a posteriori from the analysis of facts, observations and experiments, without the intervention of theoretical preconceptions a priori. 4) Pragmatism: the avowed aim of his entire research was pointed directly towards practical application.

At Koethen, he deviated, more or less, from these principles, and there appeared speculative, theoretical assertions in his writings. There is also an obvious bias toward metaphysical conclusions: the theory of chronic miasms, the theory of dynamization by trituration and succussion and the emergence of the generic term Lebensprincip (vital principle), much more theoretical and comprehensive than the one used previously – the vital force.

Yet it must be emphasized that Hahnemann never gave up his original principles; in the later editions of the Organon and Materia Medica Pura, and even in Chronic Disease, he continues to declare the inductive method standing behind the main tenants of homeopathy. In the Organon they continue from the previous editions. Those enounced principles are the base of homeopathyʼs empiricism, they had been present even from the first editions of the Organon and they constitute its primary foundation; they cross all editions. Yet at the same time, the majority of added passages – particularly from the fourth to fifth and sixth editions – prove, if not a deviation from them, than at least a more extensive, more speculative perspective and the introduction of concepts more and more difficult to experimentally verify.

A legitimate question is imposed – what actually happened to Hahnemann in this period? Was he not aware of this deviation from the strict inductive Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 36 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 37 principles and the fact that he became, in a way, heretical to his own system? Or it was a more profound phenomenon, which was generated by the fact that he reached, consciously or not, a new epistemological crisis, to which his pure empiricism could no longer provide satisfactory answers? The existence of this crisis is avowed in the foreword to Chronic Diseases:

“Ever since the years 1816 and 1817, I have been employed day and night to discover the reason why the homoeopathic remedies which were then known, did not effect a cure of the above named chronic diseases. I tried to obtain a more correct, and if possible, a completely correct idea of the true nature of these thousands of chronic ailments which remained uncured in spite of the incontrovertible truth of the homoeopathic doctrines.”

It may be that in his new domain of reflection on the cause of disease, phenomenology and radical empiricism were no longer sufficient; that his observations now required a deductive element. Hahnemann was always a seeker whose desire was to answer the metaphysical “why”, and as the question went ever deeper, driven by failures in the application of homeopathy, he began to search for the source of the great river of chronic diseases; an extremely venturesome attempt theoretically, but inevitable for a heartfelt seeker after truth. This then extended Hahnemannʼs research and quest, and required other means of investigation and different principles in the application of remedies. After twelve years of consideration on the problem of chronic diseases (kept almost entirely to himself) including the most careful research into the history of his patients and their families, and observations of the effects of homeopathic prescriptions, he arrived at the three miasms; a general and specific conception of the causal principles at the root of many diseases. The term ʻmiasmʼ, was not new, but was now applied in a context quite different than the common usage of that epoch, including his own prior use of the term. (See Simillimum Summer/Fall 2006).

What we are trying to underline is the new perspectives as compared to the previous direction of his inquiry. At the beginning he was a tireless experimenter. Now his studiousness and investigative nature shifts focus towards the realm of causality. The sustained empiricism of earlier periods of his work moved later toward theory and speculation, albeit on a strong empirical base. To say so though, is not to imply judgment, as such, of Hahnemannʼs new direction. Certainly, theoretical speculation is a necessary and noble activity of the human intellect. The fact that Hahnemann had recourse to it at the end need not be regarded as regress, but perhaps (and why not?) a maturation of his thinking.

Yet it was Hahnemann himself who previously condemned the speculative tendency in medicine. Compare his speculative elan from the period at Koethen with his well-known declaration from the sixth edition of the Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 36 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 37 Organon:

“The physicianʼs calling is not to spin so-called systems from empty conceits and hypotheses concerning the inner wesen of the life process and the origins of disease in the invisible interior of the organism (on which so many physicians mongering for fame have hitherto wasted their time and energy). The physicianʼs calling is not to make countless attempts at explanation regarding disease appearances and their proximate cause (which must ever remain concealed)…. [Sixth Organon, aph. 1 comments, Edited by Wenda Brewster OʼReilly]

Along with the theory of the chronic miasm, a renewed emphasis on vitalism and dynamization are all from the Koethen period. Let us enumerate the contradictions:

1) He builds a system of miasms and anti-miasmatic remedies. 2) Hypothesis concerning the processes that occur inside the organism, building an entire theory regarding the way in which the vital force acts and reacts. 3) Speculation regarding the origin of diseases. Moreover, he states that seven eighth of all diseases are due to psora, an affirmation impossible to demonstrate. 4) He gives a series of explanations regarding the occurrence of diseases and their proximal cause.

Yet, even in his last editions of the Organon, he declared a radical empiricism, which should consider just the facts and observations that come from experience, the “sensible phenomena”, as only in this way can medicine proceed rationally:

“Medicine can and must rest on clear facts and sensible phenomena, for all the subjects it has to deal with are clearly cognizable by the senses through experience. Knowledge of the disease to be treated, knowledge of the effects of the medicine and how the ascertained effects of the medicines are to be employed for the removal of disease-all this is taught adequately by experience, and by experience alone. Its subjects can only be derived from pure experience and observations, and it dare not take a single step out of the sphere of pure, well-observed experience and experiments, if it would avoid becoming a nullity and a farce.” - Close S. The Genius of Homoeopathy; Lectures and Essays on Homoeopathic Philosophy, p. 30

Yet the concept of chronic miasms does not derive from direct experience, rather it was a theoretical construct, to support certain observations and investigation Hahnemann made at that time; it does not refer directly to sensible phenomena that are cognoscible by the senses.”

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 38 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 39 In other words, he contradicts his own affirmations. Would he not be aware of this? Did he imagine that the privilege of founding systems belonged only to him and not to others? Here we talk about two different levels of homeopathy about which Hahnemann became more and more conscious: an external one, for the mass of his followers who followed the straight and secure path of empiricism, and another one, in the interior discipline, which we can term “esoteric”, that is reserved to him and offers a more profound basis for practice.

Whatever may be our own theories in this regard, it is certain that the period at Koethen brings this new dimension, speculative and metaphysical, to Hahnemannʼs thinking.

The fact that he chose the term ʻmiasmʼ, likely correlates more or less with the idea of contagion (the usual meaning of the term at the time). What is new and remarkable in the concept of the chronic miasm is the perpetuation in time of that morbus initius, passing from one generation to the next, the single underlying disease appearing in a diversity of forms.

“At last he came to the conclusion that, in chronic diseases, one has always to deal with a segregated part of a deeper lying original evil, the large extent of which is shown by new symptoms arising from time to time” - Haehl, p.138.

The term ʻmiasmʼ was a borrowing from common language due to its approximation with the idea he was attempting to convey. On the other hand, regarding his naming of the foremost miasm, there is a short passage in a letter to Albrecht, from fifteen September 1829, suggesting that the term ʻpsoraʼ was almost a concession and what really mattered was the general concept, psora defining a whole category of diseases:

“I call it Psora, to give it a general name.” - Haehl, vol 1, p. 136

An identical expression can be found in the foreword to the edition from 1828 of the Chronic Diseases, where Hahnemann wrote:

“I call it psora with the view of giving it a general designation.” - Bradford, 180

and also: “I am persuaded that not only are the majority of the innumerable skin diseases …but also almost all the pseudo-organizations, with few exceptions, merely the products of the multiform psora.”

The passages in which he speaks about psora as a primary evil are actually Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 38 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 39 numerous; they show that the semantic coverage of this term is in regard with the sphere of causality and that the term belongs to general concepts.

Hahnemannʼs concept of the source of chronic diseases belongs to theoretical medicine. In introducing the theory of the miasms, Hahnemann stepped in to the field of explanations concerning the essential nature (gm: Wessen) of diseases and not just their phenomenal manifestations.

“Another major achievement was Hahnemannʼs identification of miasms and his differentiation between the essential nature of a disease (its ʻwesenʼ) and the forms in which it manifests” [Introduction W. OʼReilly, HAHNEMANN S., Organon of the Medical Art, 2nd Ed.,1997]

What Could be the Cause of This New Propensity for Speculation?

The Leipzig period of Hahnemannʼs life involved the following chapters: 1. The university period, with its apparent failure, but which led to the formation of a provers syndicate 2. Extended provings that hugely enriched the primary base of symptoms for homeopathy and its consolidation as a phenomenological discipline 3. Paradigm wars, in which he invested a lot of energy and talent, and which, at the end, led him to the conviction of an irreconcilable incompatibility between the two medical systems: “as no further dialogue with allopaths would be wise, he gave up arguing with them” [Morrell, personal letter to author, 8 June, 2005]

Departing Leipzig, Hahnemann left behind some devoted and reliable lieutenants, who continued to fight for the acceptance of homeopathy. With few exceptions, once he had retired to Koethen, he did not react to the attacks of the allopaths, but concluded that the energy consumed in this kind of dispute was lost to no purpose.

Perhaps this is the greatest reason for the explosive developments that occurred during his life at Koethen: Now that he had divested himself of his infernal tendency to argumentation, and removed himself from an environment where there were diverse inimical forces, a great deal of his intellectual energy was released to recommit to the further evolution of the homeopathic system that he himself had founded.

“He therefore had no option but to develop homeopathy further...the seed he had planted and which he had nourished and cared for over thirty plus years...what else could he do?” [ Morrell, ibidem]

His way of life adopted at Koethen differed from the period at Leipzig, where he was actively involved in provings as well as the paradigm wars. At Koethen his principal activities were patient care, interspersed with long Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 40 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 41 theoretical reflections and meditations, discussions with his followers or friends and his nocturnal study. All this occurred in the calm of a small town, where he was esteemed by the enlightened sovereign, and enjoyed the warm atmosphere of his family.

“In this house, which we should nowadays regard as quite simple, Hahnemann found everything he desired. There was room enough for the exercise of his ever-increasing professional practice; for his literary and scientific work, which was continually engaging his attention; and for diversion within the circle of his family, who surrounded him with their deep love, and also of his friends who gave him pleasure with their visits.” [Haehl, vol 1, 132]

Unlike the previous period, which we can characterize as being the most extroverted in his life, Koethen was a period of quietude and deepening in meditations; it can be characterized as a period of introversion.

After settling at Koethen he seldom crossed the threshold of his door except to visit his patron when he was sick; all the other patients who flocked to Koethen for his advice he saw at his own house, and his only walks were in a little garden at the back of his house. [Dudgeon]

This period of introversion together with, finally, the peace for which he had so much need, led him towards a more profound level of theoretical consideration and, inevitably, towards metaphysics, (beyond physis; beyond the rough material aspect), namely beyond the base plane of obvious and incontestable appearances. Without totally relinquishing it (because it had represented a consolidated stage of many firm acquirements in homeopathy), it was necessary for such a fiery seeker of the truth to make a forward step beyond the phenomenology of the previous period that until then had not brought a satisfactory answer to some of the problems that still beset homeopathy.

Note: We use the term of phenomenology in its currently accepted definition: “Literally, phenomenology is the study of “phenomena”: appearances of things, or things as they appear in our experience, or the ways we experience things, thus the meanings things have in our experience” What are the theoretical assertions that the pure phenomenology and radical empiricism can bring; Only those in connection with particular phenomena. http://www.phenomenologycenter.org/phenom.htm David Woodruff Smith http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/phenomenology/

We would only add the our use of the term in this essay is not to be confused with the philosophical stream initiated at the beginning of the twentieth century by the German philosopher Husserl. Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 40 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 41 Gh. Jurj MD has been the editor of The Romanian Homepathic Journal since 1997. He has been practicing homeopathy exclusively since 1990. He teaches homeopathy courses for graduate and postgraduate students in Romania and other Eastern European countries and has published books and CDʼs on homeopathy. He has a special interest in Hahnemannʼs life and doctrines that has led to ongoing research.

The Minimum Price Books A huge selection of professional homeopathic literature including textbooks, provings, tapes, journals, seminars, and rare self-published gems. For book reviews, tables of contents, and online orders, visit www.minimum.com To order books or free catalog, call toll free: 1-800-663-8272 Minimum Price Homeopathic Books, 250 H St., PMB 2187, Blaine, WA 98230

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 42      by Todd Rowe MD, MD(H), CCH, DHt and Iris Bell MD, MD(H), PhD

Overview The American Medical College of Homeopathy Department of Research conducted a National Homeopathic Practitioner Survey. We embarked on this project with a plan to study the nature of the current homeopathic profession. It was our hope that this study would help the homeopathic community to better assess its strengths and weaknesses and to better plan its future course. We felt that this was an essential step to help grow the homeopathic profession. There has been no previous attempt to date to study the nature of the homeopathic profession. Ultimately we discovered many things that were suspected in the homeopathic community but never documented. In addition there were some surprising results, which are described below. We were excited about the high level of participation in this study. This was represented by organizational support (nearly all the homeopathic organizations in the United States participated) and individual participation (approximately 1200 responders). The large number of responders improves the accuracy of the results and permits a more extensive analysis of the data. The response rate was better for Level Five Practitioners (see below), presumably because they had more invested in the results. We sub grouped the data both by level of practice and licensure category. Traditionally, the homeopathic community divides itself mostly along licensure lines. It is our belief that this is a less useful comparison base than level of practice. Our hope is to repeat this study approximately every five years and that this study will serve as a baseline of comparison. This article represents only a summary of some of the findings. For a copy of the complete report you will find the results at www.AMCofH.org or write to [email protected].

About the Survey The survey was difficult to design. The work group that constructed it (Iris Bell MD, MD(H), PhD; Jay Bornemann; Christina Chambreau DVM; Patrick Hesselmann, HMA; Pam Pappas MD, MD(H); Richard Pitt CCH, RSHom(NA); Todd Rowe MD, MD(H), CCH, DHt; Harry Swope ND,

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 43 CCH; Gabrielle Traub (M. Tech) Hom; David Warkentin, PA) made every effort to keep the survey as short as possible, while garnering the maximum amount of data. We made an effort to minimize respondent fatigue, however despite this, the response rate by the end of the survey was only 60% of that at the beginning. General response to the survey was positive, although some found certain questions ambiguous. The survey was primarily conducted on line, although a few surveys were mailed out to individuals who did not have email addresses. It consisted of 46 questions and took approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. The following targeted groups were included:

• All National Homeopathic Membership Organizations • All National Homeopathic Schools (alumni and faculty) • Homeopathic Software Company Mailing Lists • Homeopathic Pharmaceutical Company Mailing Lists • Homeopathic Conference Directors • Homeopathic Certification Organization Mailing Lists • State Homeopathic Licensure Mailing Lists • State Homeopathic Association Mailing Lists • National Homeopathic Bookseller Mailing Lists • Forwarded Emails from Homeopathic Practitioners

The survey was up and running from June 1st, 2006 through August 31st, 2006. 1165 responses were received.

Estimating the Numbers of Homeopathic Practitioners in the United States To make meaningful use of the results of the survey, it is first helpful to make estimates of the number of homeopathic practitioners in the United States. This is very difficult to determine but below is a rough 2 determination based on input from the various homeopathic membership organizations in the United States. The otherThe other problem problem isis that there there are manyare many types of types homeopathic of homeopathic practitioners and it is helpful to Practitioner Level Five Level Four Level Three Level Two Level One MD, DO 400 700 1000 2500 7000 ND 150 1000 2000 5000 10,000 Nurses 500 10000 3000 18,000 70,000 DC 50 200 5000 10,000 25,000 LAc, OMD 50 225 500 1000 5000 DVM 50 250 1000 2000 4000 Unlicensed 1000 3000 20,000 250,000 12,000,000 Total 2200 6350 32,500 288,000 12,120,000 break out the kinds of homeopathic practice into five different categories. practitioners and it is helpful to break out the kinds of homeopathic practice intoLevel five One: Thedifferent Appreciator categories. These are individuals who support and appreciate homeopathy but do not practice it. Some have studied it and elected not to pursue it, some have been treated themselves, while others only know that it Levelseems toOne: help people. The AppreciatorThese individuals will often refer patients to homeopathy and will generally speak positivelyThese aboutare individuals it when asked.. who They maysupport develop and a deep appreciate appreciation homeopathy for homeopathy, but but dohave no wish to study it further. WinterLevel Two: / Spring Casual Practitioner2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 44 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 45 This level of practice involves the casual use of homeopathy and can be learned in a few hours of self-study or in a weekend course. Casual practitioners learn to prescribe first aid remedies. The usage at this level is mostly experimental and not taken very seriously. Usually prescribing at this level is condition based and first aid focused. Level Three: Acute Care Practitioner This level of practice focuses on acute prescribing and can be learned during a typical 30-60-hour course or more serious self-study. Here homeopathy becomes a first line treatment for many acute conditions. The usage of homeopathy is no longer casual and becomes regularly used for certain conditions. More serious cases are referred to a more skilled homeopathic practitioner or for conventional treatment. Level Four: Integrative Practitioner This level involves a deeper level of commitment to homeopathy. The integrative practitioner learns to prescribe a limited number of “constitutional remedies” that can be used in the treatment of deeper chronic conditions. This generally cannot be learned by simple self-study, but requires a more intensive 100-250 hour training program (whether in a classroom or by distance learning). Homeopathy becomes an important but part of the overall practice of the individual. Many practitioners at this level practice 1-2 days per week. At times, the practitioner may elect to pursue one modality of treatment versus another or to combine them. This is the level of most licensures. More serious cases are referred to a more skilled homeopathic practitioner or for conventional treatment. Level Five: Homeopathic Practitioner This level of homeopathic practice involves a much deeper level of integration and commitment. At this level one’s identity becomes that of a homeopath. Homeopathy becomes the primary focus of the individual’s work. This involves a full-time homeopathic practice. This requires a minimum of 500 didactic hours, although, in reality, homeopathy involves a lifetime of study. This is the level of certification.

a lifetime of study. This is the level of certification.

* Estimates from leaders within the homeopathic community.

Summary of Survey Results

Overview not practice it. Some have studied it and elected not to pursue it, some have been treated themselves, while others only know that it seems to help people. These individuals will often refer patients to homeopathy and will generally speak positively about it when asked.. They may develop a deep appreciation for homeopathy, but have no wish to study it further. Level Two: Casual Practitioner This level of practice involves the casual use of homeopathy and can be learned in a few hours of self-study or in a weekend course. Casual practitioners learn to prescribe first aid remedies. The usage at this level is mostly experimental and not taken very seriously. Usually prescribing at this level is condition based and first aid focused. Level Three: Acute Care Practitioner This level of practice focuses on acute prescribing and can be learned during a typical 30-60-hour course or more serious self-study. Here homeopathy becomes a first line treatment for many acute conditions. The usage of homeopathy is no longer casual and becomes regularly used for certain conditions. More serious cases are referred to a more skilled homeopathic practitioner or for conventional treatment. Level Four: Integrative Practitioner This level involves a deeper level of commitment to homeopathy. The integrative practitioner learns to prescribe a limited number of “constitutional remedies” that can be used in the treatment of deeper chronic conditions. This generally cannot be learned by simple self-study, but requires a more intensive 100-250 hour training program (whether in a classroom or by distance learning). Homeopathy becomes an important but part of the overall practice of the individual. Many practitioners at this level practice 1-2 days per week. At times, the practitioner may elect to pursue one modality of treatment versus another or to combine them. This is the level of most licensures. More serious cases are referred to a more skilled homeopathic practitioner or for conventional treatment. Level Five: Homeopathic Practitioner This level of homeopathic practice involves a much deeper level of integration and commitment. At this level oneʼs identity becomes that of a homeopath. Homeopathy becomes the primary focus of the individualʼs work. This involves a full-time homeopathic practice. This requires a minimum of 500 didactic hours, although, in reality, homeopathy involves a lifetime of study. This is the level of certification. * Estimates from leaders within the homeopathic community.

Summary of Survey Results

Overview In all, there were 1165 Homeopathic Practitioner Respondents in the survey. Not every participant filled out all of the questions. Below is a breakdown of the Homeopathic Practitioner Respondents by level (see Estimating the Number of Homeopathic Practitioners in the Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 44 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 45 3

In all, there were 1165 Homeopathic Practitioner Respondents in the survey. Not every participant Unitedfilled out Statesall of the above).questions. All Respondents were in level three, four or five. Below is a breakdown of the Homeopathic Practitioner Respondents by level (see Estimating the LevelNumber Five: of Homeopathic 263 respondents Practitioners in (12%the United response States above) rate. All of Respondents total Level were inFive level three, four or five. Homeopathic Practitioners) LevelLevel Five: Four: 263 368respondents respondents (12% response (6% rate response of total Level rate Five of Homeopathic total Level Four HomeopathicPractitioners) Practitioners) Level Four: 368 respondents (6% response rate of total Level Four Homeopathic Level Three:Practitioners) 534 respondents (2% response rate of total Level Three LevelHomeopathic Three: 534 respondents Practitioners) (2% response rate of total Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners) Summary of Results by Question Summary of Results by Question BelowBelow is isa summary a summary of the averaged of the results. averaged See the results. more detai ledSee summary the more by question detailed that follows for summaryfurther details. by question that follows for further details.

Question All ND ND Level 3 ND Level 4 ND Level 5 Age 49 45.6 37 yrs 49 yrs 48 yrs Sex (Female) 76% 62% 79% 57% 61% Ethnicity (Cauc) 90% 85% 92% 90% 87% Location (State) 1st Most Common CA 6.0% 7% 7% 5% 2nd Most Common NY 2.4% 7% 3% - 3rd Most Common AZ 16.9% 21% 19% 13% Location(Population) Rural (<50,000) 27% 23% 10% 31% 21% Large Metropolitain 24% 42% 40% 46% 39% Married 64% 59% 43% 52% 73% Prior Occupation Health Related 43% NA NA NA NA Non-Hlth Related54% NA NA NA NA None 3% NA NA NA NA Highest Level Education Bachelor’s 34% - - - - Master’s 19% - - - - Doctoral 28% 100% 100% 100% 100% Learn About Homeopathy Tx of Self or Family 26% 14% 11% 20% 11% Friends or Family 27% 11% 21% 24% 16% Study Grroup 7% 4% 5% 7% 25 Public Talk 7% 4% 5% 4% 2% Reading Book or Article 19% 20% 21% 20% 18% Internet 4% 2% - 6% - School 3% 37% 37% 15% 51% # Organizational Memberships None 13% 20% 14% 44% 4% One 39% 41% 43% 44% 52% Two 31% 20% 14% - 33% >2 17% 19% 14% 12% 22% Organizational Memberships AIH 8% 3% - - 5% AVH 4% - - - - 4 CSH 7% 1% - - 2% HANP 6% 23% 17% 14% 29% HNA 2% 1% - - 2% NCH 57% 36% 50% 36% 34% NASH 21% 9% - 9% 10% State Assoc 13% 10% 33% = 12% None 12% 17% 17% 41% 5% WinterCertification / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 46 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 47 CHC 13.3% 5% - - 11% DHANP 2.8% 26% 23% 7% 40% ABHt 1.9% - - - - DNBHE .9% 1% 1% - - RSHom 2.5% - - - - CVH 2.9% - - - - None 68.6% 68% 77% 89% 50% Other 7% - Licensure DC 2.6% NA NA NA NA DDS .7% NA NA NA NA DO 1.6% NA NA NA NA DVM 5.6% NA NA NA NA HMA .6% NA NA NA NA LCSW .6% NA NA NA NA LMT 1.1% NA NA NA NA MD 10.4% NA NA NA NA MD(H) 1.2% NA NA NA NA ND 10.2% 100% 100% 100% 100% None 54.9% NA NA NA NA NP 1.2% NA NA NA NA OMD/LAc 3.1% NA NA NA NA Other 5.4% NA NA NA NA PA .5% NA NA NA NA PT .1% NA NA NA NA RN 4.4% NA NA NA NA Undg. Train. Lecture 681 hrs 683.9 hrs 393 hrs 643 hrs 709 hrs Undg. Train. Clinical 382 hrs 545.9 hrs 335 hrs 489 hrs 692 hrs Undg. Train. Apprent. 320 hrs 339 hrs 265 hrs 302 hrs 385 hrs Undg. Train. Dist. Learn 22% 5.9% 0% 8% 4% Undg. Train. Apprent. 24% 28% 21% 24% 21% Ann. Cont. Ed.-Conf. 46 hrs 53.3 hrs 29 hrs 47 hrs 61 hrs Ann. Cont. Ed.-Self Study 75 hrs 72.7 hrs 60 hrs 62 hrs 84 hrs Years in Practice 11.5 yrs 13 yrs 8 yrs 10 yrs 21 yrs Referral Sources Family 13% 7% - 9% 5% Patient 51% 59% 48% 55% 64% Hlth Care 6% 5% 5% 5% 6% Publications 3% 3% 2.5% 2% 4% Internet 7% 7% 2.5% 7% 8% Public Talks 4% 5% 12.5% 7% 2% Other Pract. 5% 5% 5% 2% 6% Directories 4% 4% 15% 3% 4% Other 6% 4% 10% 8% 1% Type of Practice Solo 79% 66% 50% 62% 55% Employee 2% 3% - 3% - Group 6% 7% - 8% 17% Group (Mixed) 14% 3% 50% 19% 24% Other 10% 10% - 8% 5% Praciice Methodlogy 4

NCH 57% 36% 50% 36% 34% NASH 21% 9% - 9% 10% State Assoc 13% 10% 33% = 12% None 12% 17% 17% 41% 5% Certification CHC 13.3% 5% - - 11% DHANP 2.8% 26% 23% 7% 40% ABHt 1.9% - - - - DNBHE .9% 1% 1% - - RSHom 2.5% - - - - CVH 2.9% - - - - None 68.6% 68% 77% 89% 50% Other 7% - Licensure DC 2.6% NA NA NA NA DDS .7% NA NA NA NA DO 1.6% NA NA NA NA DVM 5.6% NA NA NA NA HMA .6% NA NA NA NA LCSW .6% NA NA NA NA LMT 1.1% NA NA NA NA MD 10.4% NA NA NA NA MD(H) 1.2% NA NA NA NA ND 10.2% 100% 100% 100% 100% None 54.9% NA NA NA NA NP 1.2% NA NA NA NA OMD/LAc 3.1% NA NA NA NA Other 5.4% NA NA NA NA PA .5% NA NA NA NA PT .1% NA NA NA NA RN 4.4% NA NA NA NA Undg. Train. Lecture 681 hrs 683.9 hrs 393 hrs 643 hrs 709 hrs Undg. Train. Clinical 382 hrs 545.9 hrs 335 hrs 489 hrs 692 hrs Undg. Train. Apprent. 320 hrs 339 hrs 265 hrs 302 hrs 385 hrs Undg. Train. Dist. Learn 22% 5.9% 0% 8% 4% Undg. Train. Apprent. 24% 28% 21% 24% 21% Ann. Cont. Ed.-Conf. 46 hrs 53.3 hrs 29 hrs 47 hrs 61 hrs Ann. Cont. Ed.-Self Study 75 hrs 72.7 hrs 60 hrs 62 hrs 84 hrs Years in Practice 11.5 yrs 13 yrs 8 yrs 10 yrs 21 yrs Referral Sources Family 13% 7% - 9% 5% Patient 51% 59% 48% 55% 64% Hlth Care 6% 5% 5% 5% 6% Publications 3% 3% 2.5% 2% 4% Internet 7% 7% 2.5% 7% 8% Public Talks 4% 5% 12.5% 7% 2% Other Pract. 5% 5% 5% 2% 6% Directories 4% 4% 15% 3% 4% Other 6% 4% 10% 8% 1% Type of Practice Solo 79% 66% 50% 62% 55% Employee 2% 3% - 3% - Group 6% 7% - 8% 17% 5 Group (Mixed) 14% 3% 50% 19% 24% Other 10% 10% - 8% 5% Praciice Methodlogy Repertorization 14% 21% 20% 23% 19% Vital Sensation 7% 14% - 11% 17% Materia Medica 5% 7% 20% 8% 8% Classical 5% 11% - 8% 6% Case Taking 4% 7% 20% 11% 11% Kent 2% 5% - 2% - MIasm 2% 5% 20% 2% 6% Themes 2% 5% 20% 6% 2% Medicines Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 46 Single Winter84% / Spring74% 2007 Volume90% XX / SIMILLIMUM51% 89% 47 Combination 7% 7% 10% 15% 2% Intercurrent 4% 4% = 9% 2% Conventional 3% ,7% - .9% 1% Herbal 6% 13% - 19% 11% Nutraceuticals 9% 18% - 26% 13% Potencies Chosen 30C or less 37% 33% 33% 32% 34% 200C & above 47% 52% 67% 47% 56% LM 15% 9.6% - 13% 8% Other 3% 6.5% - 10% 5% Dosing Single 56% 53% 90% 43% 57% Daily (fixed) 31% 31% 10% 40% 27% Multiple Daily 13% 16% - 17% 16% Client Population Children 22% 25% 50% 19% 27% Adults 59% 63% 43% 65% 63% Elderly 9% 11% 7% 10% 10% Animals 8% 2% - 3% ,2% Special Group 1% .4% - 1% .3% Patient Satisfaction Extr High 15% 21% 33% 16% 25% Very High 44% 40% 67% 39% 39% High 40% 38% - 45% 33% Medium 9% 2% - - 3% Low 2% - - - - Very Low .2% - - - - Extr Low .3% - - - - Response to Treatment Exc. Good-Totality 45% 48.5% 35% 45% 52% Exc. Good-Chief Complt 40% 42% 60% 41% 41% Partial Response 23% 20% 45% 22% 20% Negative Response 3% 4% 5% 4% 5% No Response 8% 9% 25% 7% 9% % Practice-Homeopathic 73% 70.4% 30% 45% 91% % Income-Homeopathic 73% 62.9% 13% 31% 86% Monthly New Patient Visits10.4 10.7 4.7 7.9 12.7 Monthly FY Vusits 36.0 54.1 22.5 26.6 77.3 New Visit Charge $187 $216.20 $150 $176.50 $242.76 Follow Up Charge $71 $74.60 $65 $63.90 $81.23 Length of New Visit 106 min 105 min 120 min 99 min 109 min Length of Follow Up 42 min 39 min 53 min 39 min 38 min Average Time to 1st FU 30 days 28 days 27 days 24 days 30 days % Income for Overhead 37% 46$ 65% 45% 45% Number of Staff .7 .74 .5 .6 .9 % Practice-Sliding Fee 14% 14% 15% 21% 9% 5

Repertorization 14% 21% 20% 23% 19% Vital Sensation 7% 14% - 11% 17% Materia Medica 5% 7% 20% 8% 8% Classical 5% 11% - 8% 6% Case Taking 4% 7% 20% 11% 11% Kent 2% 5% - 2% - MIasm 2% 5% 20% 2% 6% Themes 2% 5% 20% 6% 2% Medicines Single 84% 74% 90% 51% 89% Combination 7% 7% 10% 15% 2% Intercurrent 4% 4% = 9% 2% Conventional 3% ,7% - .9% 1% Herbal 6% 13% - 19% 11% Nutraceuticals 9% 18% - 26% 13% Potencies Chosen 30C or less 37% 33% 33% 32% 34% 200C & above 47% 52% 67% 47% 56% LM 15% 9.6% - 13% 8% Other 3% 6.5% - 10% 5% Dosing Single 56% 53% 90% 43% 57% Daily (fixed) 31% 31% 10% 40% 27% Multiple Daily 13% 16% - 17% 16% Client Population Children 22% 25% 50% 19% 27% Adults 59% 63% 43% 65% 63% Elderly 9% 11% 7% 10% 10% Animals 8% 2% - 3% ,2% Special Group 1% .4% - 1% .3% Patient Satisfaction Extr High 15% 21% 33% 16% 25% Very High 44% 40% 67% 39% 39% High 40% 38% - 45% 33% Medium 9% 2% - - 3% Low 2% - - - - Very Low .2% - - - - Extr Low .3% - - - - Response to Treatment Exc. Good-Totality 45% 48.5% 35% 45% 52% Exc. Good-Chief Complt 40% 42% 60% 41% 41% Partial Response 23% 20% 45% 22% 20% Negative Response 3% 4% 5% 4% 5% No Response 8% 9% 25% 7% 9% % Practice-Homeopathic 73% 70.4% 30% 45% 91% % Income-Homeopathic 73% 62.9% 13% 31% 86% Monthly New Patient Visits10.4 10.7 4.7 7.9 12.7 Monthly FY Vusits 36.0 54.1 22.5 26.6 77.3 New Visit Charge $187 $216.20 $150 $176.50 $242.76 Follow Up Charge $71 $74.60 $65 $63.90 $81.23 Length of New Visit 106 min 105 min 120 min 99 min 109 min Length of Follow Up 42 min 39 min 53 min 39 min 38 min Average Time to 1st FU 30 days 28 days 27 days 24 days 30 days %6 Income for Overhead 37% 46$ 65% 45% 45% Number of Staff .7 .74 .5 .6 .9 % Practice-Sliding Fee 14% 14% 15% 21% 9% % Practice-Pro Bono 15% 11% 5% 14% 9% % Practice-Insurance 11% 26% 45% 15% 32% Time in Practice to Break Even 19 months 16 months 6 months 14 months 18 mos Practice Orientation Classical 90% 91% 100% 64% 95% Monthly Income $4500.80 $6349.20 $2167.50 $3094.09 $9362.13 Service (hrs) Teaching 67 hrs 80 hrs - 85 hrs 100 hrs Speaking 72 hrs 65 hrs 5 hrs 80 hrs 62 hrs Research 104 hrs 73 hrs - 42 hrs 57 hrs Volunteer 25 hrs 35 hrs 200 hrs 12 hrs 39 hrs Winter Public/ Spring Outreach 200727 hrs Volume XX21 hrs / SIMILLIMUM50 hrs 4338 hrs 12 hrs Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 49 Other 28 hrs 41 hrs 50 hrs 88 hrs 10 hrs

Discussion and Analysis

Estimating the Number of Homeopathic Practitioners The question of “how many homeopaths are there” has been a difficult one to answer and has largely been ignored. Part of the difficulty in calculating this reflects the diversity of practice of homeopathic practitioners. In embarking on this study, we attempted to cast as wide of a net as possible in reaching this diverse group. The methodology included professional, membership, certification and licensure organizations. In addition we utilized mailing lists of software and pharmacy companies. Central to the success of answering this question has been to divide out various levels of homeopathic practice (see above). The nature and scope of the homeopathic practitioner’s work is quite different at each level. This can clearly be seen in the results of the survey, which breaks the respondents apart into Level Three, Four and Five. The number of homeopathic practitioners can be seen a s pyramid in which Level One represents the largest group and the numbers get progressively smaller as the levels increase. Ultimately however, the estimates of the number of homeopathic practitioners are a best guess based on the experience and knowledge of key leaders within the homeopathic community. Future studies need to be performed in an effort to determine these numbers more accurately. One category that may be underrepresented in this survey is the number of homeopathic practitioners practicing complex homeopathy. It is our belief that most of the homeopathic practitioners utilizing this methodology fall into Level Two and Three.

Demographics

Age The average age of the homeopathic practitioner respondent was over 48 years old. This is older than most other health professions. Homeopathy has not been as effective in attracting younger people into practice. The choice of homeopathic medicine most often represents a second or even third career. Age was the highest in Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners, MD’s and RN’s. Age was the lowest in Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners, ND’s and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners. There is a ten year average age differential between MD Homeopathic Practitioners and ND Homeopathic Practitioners.

Sex More than _ of the homeopathic practitioner respondents were female. This represents a higher rate than most other health care professions. There were more female homeopathic practitioner respondents in Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners, RN’s and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners. There were relatively more male homeopathic practitioner respondents in Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners, OMD’s and MD’s. MD’s was the only licensure category that demonstrated more male than female homeopathic practitioners.

Location 6

% Practice-Pro Bono 15% 11% 5% 14% 9% % Practice-Insurance 11% 26% 45% 15% 32% Time in Practice to Break Even 19 months 16 months 6 months 14 months 18 mos Practice Orientation Classical 90% 91% 100% 64% 95% Monthly Income $4500.80 $6349.20 $2167.50 $3094.09 $9362.13 Service (hrs) Teaching 67 hrs 80 hrs - 85 hrs 100 hrs Speaking 72 hrs 65 hrs 5 hrs 80 hrs 62 hrs Research 104 hrs 73 hrs - 42 hrs 57 hrs Volunteer 25 hrs 35 hrs 200 hrs 12 hrs 39 hrs Public Outreach 27 hrs 21 hrs 50 hrs 33 hrs 12 hrs Other 28 hrs 41 hrs 50 hrs 88 hrs 10 hrs

DiscussionDiscussion and andAnalysis Analysis

EstimatingEstimating the Numberthe Number of Homeopathic of Homeopathic Practitioners Practitioners The question of “how many homeopaths are there” has been a difficult one to answer and has largelyThe been question ignored. ofPart “how of the difficulty many homeopathsin calculating this arereflects there” the diversity has been of practice a difficult of onehomeopathic to answer practitioners. and has In embarking largely onbeen this study,ignored. we atte mptedPart toof cast the as difficultywide of a net as possible in inreaching calculating this diverse this group. reflects The methodology the diversity included professiof practiceonal, membership, of homeopathic certification and practitioners.licensure organizations. In embarking In addition we onutilized this mailing study, lists we of software attempted and pharmacy to cast companies. as wide of a Central to the success of answering this question has been to divide out various levels of nethomeopathic as possible practice in (see reaching above). The this nature diverse and scope group. of the homeopathic The methodology practitioner’s work included is quite professional,different at each level. membership, This can clearly certification be seen in the resul andts of licensure the survey, whichorganizations. breaks the respondents In additionapart into Level we Three,utilized Four mailingand Five. The lists number of software of homeopat andhic practitioners pharmacy can companies.be seen a s pyramid in whichCentral Level Oneto therepresents success the largest of answering group and the numbersthis question get progressively has been smaller to as divide the levels increase. out variousUltimately levels however, of homeopathic the estimates of the practice number of (seehomeopathic above). practitioners The nature are a best and guess scopebased on of the the experience homeopathic and knowledge practitionerʼs of key leaders within work the is homeopathic quite different community. at Futureeach studies level.need to be This performed can clearlyin an effort be to determineseen in these the numbersresults m ofore theaccurately. survey, which breaks One category that may be underrepresented in this survey is the number of homeopathic thepractitioners respondents practicing apart complex into homeopathy. Level Three,It is our belief Four that and most Five. of the homeopathic The number practitioners of homeopathicutilizing this methodology practitioners fall into Level can Two be andseen Three. a s pyramid in which Level One represents the largest group and the numbers get progressively smaller as theDemographics levels increase. AgeUltimately however, the estimates of the number of homeopathic practitionersThe average are age a bestof the guesshomeopathic based practitioner on the respondent experience was over and 48 yearsknowledge old. This isof older keythan mostleaders other healthwithin professions. the homeopathic Homeopathy has community. not been as effective Future in attracting studies younger need people to be into practice. The choice of homeopathic medicine most often represents a second or even third career. performedAge was in thean highest effort in to Level determine Five Homeopathic these Practitioners, numbers MDmore’s and accurately. RN’s. Age was the lowest One in Levelcategory Three Homeopathic that may Practitioners,be underrepresented ND’s and Unlic ensedin this Homeopathic survey Practitioners.is the number There ofis ahomeopathic ten year average age practitioners differential between practicing MD Homeopathic complex Practitioners homeopathy. and ND Homeopathic It is our beliefPractitioners. that most of the homeopathic practitioners utilizing this methodology fallSex into Level Two and Three. More than _ of the homeopathic practitioner respondents were female. This represents a higher Demographicsrate than most other health care professions. There were more female homeopathic practitioner respondents in Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners, RN’s and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners. There were relatively more male Agehomeopathic practitioner respondents in Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners, OMD’s and MD’s. MD’s wasThe the onlyaverage licensure age category of the that homeopathicdemonstrated more practitioner male than female respondent homeopathic practitioners. was over 48 years old. This is older than most other health professions. Homeopathy hasLocation not been as effective in attracting younger people into practice. The choice of homeopathic medicine most often represents a second or even third career. Age was the highest in Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners, MDʼs and RNʼs. Age was the lowest in Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners, NDʼs and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners. There is a ten year average age differential between MD Homeopathic Practitioners and ND Homeopathic Practitioners.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 48 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 49

Sex More than 3⁄4 of the homeopathic practitioner respondents were female. This represents a higher rate than most other health care professions. There were more female homeopathic practitioner respondents in Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners, RNʼs and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners. There were relatively more male homeopathic practitioner respondents in Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners, OMDʼs and MDʼs. MDʼs was the only licensure category that demonstrated more male than female homeopathic practitioners.

Location The greatest concentrations of homeopathic practitioner respondents were found in California (19%), New York (8%) and Arizona: (7%). Some states showed well above the expected average number of homeopathic practitioners based on population statistics, while other states were far below. Colorado represented the largest surplus and Missouri the greatest deficiency. Appendix B describes these surpluses and deficiencies by state in more detail. The majority of respondents were either located in small rural areas (<50,000) (27%) or large metropolitan areas (>1million) (24%). Some healing professions have had difficulty attracting rural practitioners to their fields-this does not appear to be the case for homeopathy.

Ethnicity The homeopathic practitioner respondents were over 90% Caucasian. This is significantly higher than national averages based on population. Particularly poorly represented were African Americans and Hispanics. Statistically significant differences were not seen in any subgroup population (level or licensure).

Marital Status: Nearly 2/3 of all homeopathic practitioner respondents were married. This is higher than the rate for the general population. Higher rates of marriage were seen in DVM and MD subcategories. Higher rates of single marital status were seen in OMD and ND subcategories.

Occupation Before Homeopathy: A majority of homeopathic practitioner respondents described non-health related professions prior to embarking on homeopathy as a career. Very few respondents described homeopathy as their initial career (3.3%).

Highest Level of Education Achieved There was wide disparity in educational backgrounds of homeopathic practitioners prior to embarking on their homeopathic education. In Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 50 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 51 general, the level of education was higher in Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners and lower in Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners. The most well represented category of licensure was a Bachelorʼs level of education, with Doctoral level being a close second.

Homeopathic Training

Undergraduate Training The average homeopathic practitioner respondent had 682 hours of didactic undergraduate homeopathic education, 382 hours of undergraduate clinical training and 320 hours of undergraduate apprenticeship training. A significant difference was seen in the undergraduate education by level of practice. Level Five practitioners had a three-fold increase in the number of hours of homeopathic education compared to Level Three and Level Four Practitioners. MDʼs averaged the highest level of didactic hours, whereas NDʼs averaged the highest number of clinical training hours. DVMʼs showed the least number of lecture based and clinical training hours. Only 25% of training was described as distance learning based. We suspect that this is gradually increasing over time. Distance Learning education was more common in Level Three Practitioners and in Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners. About 25% of training was described as apprenticeship based and we suspect that this is decreasing over time. This was more common in Level Five Practitioners. Apprenticeship was the most common in OMDʼs and MDʼs.

Learning About Homeopathy The responses to this question were diverse. However the two categories that were by far the strongest were treatment of self or family member (26%) and referral by friends or family (27%). The third most common response was reading a book or article (19%). There was little statistical difference seen between the levels of homeopathic practice. OMDʼs and NDʼs were the most likely to learn about homeopathy through self-treatment. RNʼs were the most likely to learn about homeopathy through treatment of friends or family and through study groups. DVMʼs were the most likely to hear about homeopathy through a public talk. NDʼs were the mostly likely to hear about homeopathy through reading a book or article. The internet was a minor factor (6.8%) although we suspect that this is growing. An exception to the above is that Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners were the most affected by the internet. OMDʼs were the most likely to hear about homeopathy through the internet.

Continuing Education The average respondent homeopathic practitioner puts in 121 hours per year of continuing education study. Roughly 25% of this is seminar based Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 50 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 51 and 75% is self-study. Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners put in significantly more continuing education study than Level Four or Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners. NDʼs put in the greatest amount of continuing education hours and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners put in the least.

Certification Only 30% of homeopathic practitioner respondents were certified. The largest category by far was the CHC (13.3%), which significantly increased in Level Five Practitioners (25%). Level Five Practitioners were also significantly more likely to be certified than Level Three Practitioners. Unlicensed homeopathic practitioners were the least likely to be certified, whereas NDʼs were the most likely to be certified.

Membership Organizations The average number of memberships in homeopathic organizations was 1.6. Level Five Practitioners were significantly more likely to have multiple memberships. Membership in the National Center for Homeopathy (NCH) was the largest category and the majority of homeopathic practitioner respondents were members (56.8%). Membership in the North American Society of Homeopaths (NASH) was also quite strong (21.2%). By far, the most common pairing of memberships was NCH and NASH.

Licensure A majority of homeopathic practitioner respondents were unlicensed (57%). Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners were significantly more likely to be licensed than Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners. Naturopathic Doctor (10.7%) and Medical Doctor (10.4%) were the most common licensure categories. DCʼs (2.8%), DDS (.8%) and PAʼs (.5%) were felt to be under-represented in this survey. Many chiropractors do use homeopathic medicines but mostly as Level Two Homeopathic Practitioners.

Nature of Practice

Length of Practice The average homeopathic practitioner respondent was in practice for eleven years. This was significantly longer in Level Five Practitioners (16 years) and shorter in Level Three Practitioners (6 years). MDʼs held the longest average (22 years) and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners the shortest (8 years).

Amount of Homeopathy The practice of the average homeopathic practitioner respondent was 73% homeopathic. However, this only represented 52% of the income. Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 52 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 53 Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners practiced significantly more homeopathy than Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners. Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners held the highest percentage of practice (80%) and DVMʼs the lowest (60%). Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners received significantly more homeopathic income from their practice (81%) than Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners (12%). DVMʼs received the lowest homeopathic income from their practice (49%) and NDʼs the highest (64%). The average homeopathic practitioner respondent sees 10 new patient visits per month and 36 follow-ups. Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners see significantly more new patient visits and follow ups than Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners. MDʼs have the highest rate of new patient visits (24), where Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners (6) and RNʼs (6) had the lowest. OMDʼs had the highest rate of follow up visits (53) and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners (20) and RNʼs had the lowest (24).

Fees/Income The average charge for a new visit was $187 and $71 for a follow up. Typically 25% of this was directed towards overhead. Level Five Practitioners had a much higher average new patient fee ($242.40) compared to Level Three Practitioners ($82.50). They also had a much higher follow up visit rate ($83.00) compared to Level Three Practitioners ($43.10). MDʼs charged the highest rate for new patient visits ($275.70) compared to Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners, who had the lowest rate ($161.70). They also had the highest rate for follow-ups ($87.30) compared to Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners ($63.70). Level Four Practitioners had the highest amount of income directed to overhead (37.8%) and Level Three Practitioners the lowest (25.8%). This was highest for MDʼs (46.1%) and lowest for DVMʼs (31.2%) and RNʼs (30%). The average portion of the practice for sliding fee scale was 13.7% and for pro bono work, 15.5%. The percentage of practice that was sliding fee scale was highest in Level Three Practitioners (17%) and lowest in Level Five Practitioners (11.1%). Similarly, the percentage of practice that was pro bono was highest in Level Three Practitioners (35.6%) and lowest in Level Five Practitioners (8.5%). OMDʼs had the highest rate of sliding fee scales (15.2%) and DVMʼs the lowest (7.0%). Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners had the highest rate of pro bono work (19.4%) and MDʼs the lowest (6.8%). Only 11.1% of patients received insurance reimbursement. This was much higher in Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners (15.2%) and lowest in Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners (3.7%). MDʼs had the highest rate of insurance reimbursement (34.8%) and DVMʼs the lowest (.7%). This makes for an average annual income of $49,508.80 with a take home pay before taxes of $37,131.60 (-25% for overhead). Level Five Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 52 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 53 Homeopathic Practitioners ($101,306) make significantly more income than Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners ($2779/year). Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners do make less income ($25,252) than Licensed Homeopathic Practitioners. However when you separate out Unlicensed Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners, their income jumps to $72,000/year. MDʼs had the highest average income ($135,987/year). OMDʼS also had a higher average income ($96,576/year). The average length of time in practice before financially breaking even was 19 months. This was very short for Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners (1.4 months) and longer for Level Four Practitioners (19.4). It is interesting that it took longer for Level Four Practitioners to break even than Level Five Practitioners (21.4 months). OMDʼs (8.9 months) and DVMʼs (10.1 months) described the shortest length of time to break even, while Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners took the longest (21.7 months).

Time The average length of time for a new patient visit was 106 minutes. This was longer for Level Five Practitioners (111 minutes) than for Level Three or Four Practitioners. DVMʼs had the shortest average new visit (74 minutes), while Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners had the longest (113 minutes). The average length of time for a follow up visit was 42 minutes. This was the longest for Level Three Practitioners (48 minutes) and shortest for Level Five Practitioners (42 minutes). DVMʼs had the shortest follow up visits (25 minutes) and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners the longest (46.7 minutes). The average length of time to the first follow up was 29.7 days. This was shorter for Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners (24 days) than Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners (31.3 days). DVMʼs had the shortest time (15 days) and RNʼs the longest (33.5).

Staff The average number of staff for each homeopathic practitioner respondent was .7. This was lowest in Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners (.4) and highest in Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners (.87). MDʼs tended to have the highest level of staff (1.9) and Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners the lowest (.26).

Referral Sources The most common source of referrals was from patients (51.6%). Referrals from family members and friends (13.1%) was the second most common, with internet being third (7.5%) Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners tended to have significantly more referrals from family members and friends (25.7%) and less from directories (1.4%). Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners tended to receive the most Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 54 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 55 referrals from patients (57,4%).

Style of Practice

Type of Practice The majority of Homeopathic Practitioner Respondents are in solo practice (79%). The second largest category was a group with mixed healing modalities (14%). Solo practice was most common in MDʼs (79%) where a group with mixed healing modalities was most common in OMDʼs (26%) and NDʼs (22%). Employee status was most common in DVMʼs (7%).

Orientation Most homeopathic practitioner respondents practice classical homeopathy (89.6%). Complex homeopathy was practiced more commonly in Level Four Homeopathic Practitioners (17.5%). Complex homeopathy is practiced most commonly by OMDʼs (32%) and least commonly by Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners (2.8%).

Methodology The survey did a poor job at assessing this area. We struggled with a question that would obtain some useful data and ultimately made the question fill in the blank. There was a great diversity of responses. Some responses focused on a particular teacherʼs methodology while others focused on particular methods. The three most common responses were Repertorization (14.4%), Sankaran Vital Sensation (7.2%) and Materia Medica Research (6.1%). Classical (4.8%), Hahnemannian (1.2%), Miasm (1.7%), Themes/Essences (1.7%) and Totality (1.6%) were also relatively strong. Most of the Respondents described multiple methods. The average was 3.2 responses per respondent.

Remedy Choices Nearly all practitioners use single remedies in their practice (84%). Some also use combination remedies, intercurrent remedies, conventional medications, herbal medicines and nutraceuticals. The most common supplements to remedies reported were cell salts and flower essences. Level Four Homeopathic Practitioners were the most likely to use combination remedies (8.1%) and by OMDʼs Intercurrent remedies were most used by RNʼs (4.8%). Conventional medications were most used by MDʼs (9.5%). Herbal medicines and nutraceuticals were most used by NDʼs (13.2% and 18.2%). Nearly all the Homeopathic Practitioner Respondents utilize C potencies. The most common potency grouping was 200C and higher (46.6%). Prescriptions of 30C and below was also frequent (37.2%). LM potencies were less common (14.9%). Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners tend to use 30C potencies Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 54 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 55 and below much more commonly (60.3%), compared to Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners (29%). Also, Unlicensed Homeopathic practitioners tend to use these potencies more commonly (38.2%). LM potencies were used the most by DVMʼs (21.9%). The most common method of dosing was the single dose (53.7%). This was relative unaffected by level or licensure category.

Client Populations The most common patient population was adults (59.2%). Children was also strong (22.5%). A significant number of Homeopathic Practitioner Respondents saw some animals (11.6%). Also most DVMʼs see some humans. Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners tend to see more animals (16.5%) and Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners tend to see more children (25.8%) and elderly (9.8%). MDʼs tend to see the most elderly (12.9%) and children (26.0%) of any licensure category. The elderly client population was low-several practitioners commented on the higher liability associated with the treatment of the elderly(8.7%). This is particularly important in that the percentage of the general population of elderly is only 10% at this time, but will be increasing to 20% by 2030.

Success in Practice

Patient Satisfaction Success in practice is difficult to measure. We asked the homeopathic practitioner respondents to describe patient satisfaction with their practices. Overall this was described as very high (44.5%). It was significantly higher in Level Five Practitioners (49.2%) than Level Three Practitioners (29.6%). NDʼs described the highest level of patient satisfaction with their practices.

Response to Treatment Homeopathic Practitioner Respondents described exceptionally good responses in multiple domains (45%), exceptionally good responses in the chief complaint (40.2%), partial response to treatment (23.1%), negative responses to treatment (3.2%) and no response to treatment (7.9%). Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners described the highest rate of excellent response in all domains (50.1%), whereas level three homeopathic Practitioners described the highest rate of excellent response in the chief complaint (42.1%). Level Three Practitioners were more likely to have no response (9.3%) or partial response to treatment (29.5%). OMDʼs described the highest level of excellent response in the chief complaint (44.5% and excellent response in all domains (52.5%).

Practitioner Satisfaction There was nearly universal satisfaction described in homeopathic practice. Most talked about curing illness and watching their patients Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 56 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 57 improve. Many of the responses were quite beautiful and inspiring. We elected to include all of them in Appendix D.

Growing Homeopathy Most homeopathic practitioners participate in service to the homeopathic profession. This took the form of annual hours in teaching (66), speaking and writing (66), research (98), work for other homeopathic organizations (25) and public outreach (23). Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners give nearly three times as many hours as Level Three Homeopathic Practitioners. OMDʼs give the most time in teaching (88 hours) and speaking and writing (108 hours). Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners devote the most time to research (121 hours). NDʼs devote the most time to support of homeopathic organizations (35 hours). Unlicensed practitionerʼs give the most time in public outreach (26).

Dispelling Myths About Homeopathic Practice

1. Myth: You cannot make a living doing homeopathy. This survey shows that this is not true. Level Five Homeopathic Practitioners have an average income of $101,000 per year. 2. Myth: You have to be an MD to make any money doing homeopathy. Although it is true that MDʼs make more income doing homeopathy ($135,000 per year), Level Five Unlicensed Homeopathic Practitioners can also make a quite comfortable and profitable income ($72,000). 3. Myth: What distinguishes homeopathic practitioners the most is licensure. Traditionally this has been well accepted. However this study reveals far more similarities than differences amongst the various categories of licensure. What seems to distinguish homeopathic practitioners far more is the levels of practice. 4. Myth: There are very few homeopaths practicing homeopathy in this country. This study reveals that there are many more homeopathic practitioners than some have thought. It is important also to divide these practitioners by levels of practice. Part of the misunderstanding about practice within the homeopathic community stems from confusing these various levels of practice. 5. Myth: MDʼs rely on insurance reimbursement for homeopathic practice. Although MDʼs use insurance more often than any other licensure category (34%), they are not dependent on this for income. 6. Myth: The best way to attract patients to your practice is through public talks. This has been a long held belief within the homeopathic Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 56 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 57 community. This proved to be a less important source of referrals and was surpassed by the internet, health care referrals, friends and family and especially patient referrals. 7. Myth: It takes years before being able to break even in homeopathic practice. This study showed that the average was 19 months. This is about the same that is expected in most health care professions. 8. Myth: Nearly all homeopathic practitioners practice classical homeopathy. This study showed that about 90% of homeopathic practitioners practice classical homeopathy. We feel that complex homeopathic practitioners were under-represented in this study. Many of these practitioners practice at Level Two or Level Three.

Recommendations 1.The homeopathic community needs to find way to attract younger practitioners into the profession. 2. The homeopathic community needs to find ways to attract more men to the field. 3. The homeopathic community needs to find ways to attract more ethnically diverse practitioners, especially African Americans and Hispanics. 4.The homeopathic community needs to do a better job at attracting homeopathic practitioners as their first career. 5. The homeopathic community needs to find ways to increase the length of veterinary homeopathic education. 6. The homeopathic community needs to find ways to attract DCʼs and PAʼs to the homeopathic profession. 7. The homeopathic community needs to charge more for homeopathic services. 8. The homeopathic community needs to find ways to make the homeopathic profession more lucrative for its membership. 9. This survey should be repeated every 5-7 years.

Acknowledgements We are indebted to the following organizations who helped make this survey possible: Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy (Jeff Feinman DVM); American Institute of Homeopathy (Bernardo Merizalde MD); Arizona Homeopathic and Integrative Medical Association (Lisa Platt); Council for Homeopathic Certification (Lia Bello RN, FNP, CCH); Council on Homeopathic Education (Todd Hoover MD, DHt); Homeopathic Association of Naturopathic Physicians (Neil Tessler ND, DHANP); Homeopathic Nurses Association (Ann Mckay RN, CMA, DIHom, HNC) ; Kent Homeopathic Associates (David Warkentin, PA); Miccant (David Witko); Minimum Price Books (Greg Cooper); National Center for Homeopathy (Jean Hoagland); North American Society of Homeopaths (Kate Birch RSHom(NA), CCH); Whole Health Now (Kim and Micki Elia). Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 58       :   Tim Shannon ND

The following is an edited transcript from a patient who presented with post traumatic stress disorder. The video case of this patient was presented at the 2006 NCH in San Jose. The video was also shown at a NCNM grand rounds. PTSD is explicit in this case, however it can also present in a more insidious fashion.

The main themes I’ve observed to help me consider PTSD as the primary diagnosis are: 1.Escape: a.Unconsciousness, Numbness, Floating, Disassociation, Painlessness, Restlessness/Occupation 2.Hyper vigilance: a.Someone is in the house, behind me, or lurking b.Hypersensitivity – noises, touch, smells, etc. c.Mistrust and suspiciousness (especially if harm was perpetrated by people rather than natural disasters, accidents, etc.) d.Insomnia 3.Hyper-defensiveness: a.Rage & outbursts, pushing others away, promiscuity, OCD (controlling environment as defense) 4.Stuck in the past: a.Flashbacks, repeating nightmares or dreams, brooding on past, Déjà vu.

The patient was thirty-five at the initial intake, referred by his adopted mother, a therapist, who came to a presentation I had made on PTSD. He is African American, thin and well built. The patient had been frequently moved around from foster home to foster home as a young boy. At one of those homes in particular, he was frequently abused in a variety of ways. Eventually a wonderful family adopted him.

He was mild mannered and soft-spoken. He paused frequently, sometimes for long moments. He would often look like he was struggling to form thoughts at times, often putting his hand to his forehead as if working hard to come up with thoughts. In addition, throughout treatment,

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 59 especially in the beginning, he often would struggle with basic concepts. His presentation is somewhat scattered. I found it necessary at times to focus him with a variety of prompts.

Monday, December 27, 2004:

What can you tell me?

[Long pause and then he asks me where to start].

What brings you here?

My mom went to one of your seminars. She thought you could help with some of the feelings I’m having. [Pause while he reflects]. It just makes me think, “No I don’t really have any problems or things I can’t solve.” All the things I’ve been through, being adopted, moving to a small town, racism, and my reading disability. To sum it up I have great parents … I don’t know where to go... Sometimes I have the blues, when stressed I bite my nails more than I should - never been able to stop. Usually when I get really, really stressed, lower back hurts, now moved into my neck. Severe headaches – mostly in the past. Out of everything, this emptiness inside is pretty much it - difficult to be in this situation.

More?

I’ve coped extremely well. Out of all the things I’ve been through, came through pretty good. Had good parents, good community.

Difficult times?

What is sitting heavy on my mind is the last relationship I went through with someone I thought was a sound person. But going through the yelling part. In our family, our dad was a ‘yeller’, but a typical family life, he kept everyone in line. But this ex-girlfriend, she was a ‘yeller’, agitating a person to do something, and always blaming everyone else. Making me feel bad and I was always getting sucked in. She was a heavy drinker, smoked a lot of weed. I did too, but more to fit in. My friends are a bunch of heavy drinkers. For some dumb reason I’m still trying to process that whole relationship. She had a little boy. I cared about him - still do… Again me trying to process why everything went the way it did, that I cared about her.

Being moved around from home to home, with adoption as a kid. Moved from one foster home to another, which was getting the crap kicked out of me, jabbed at with needles, forced to eat food I didn’t want to eat. You know - heavy abuse. But going back to her, being sexually abused in my foster homes, to seeing where I am right now and why can’t I make it.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 60 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 61 Everything bounces off of the last relationship that I had. She said I wasn’t there, which I don’t get. I could have sworn I was.

I really hate to say this, but my peace of mind would be about finding someone else. Most of my stuff is just feelings, and it is the blues. Maybe that is a form of depression. For the last three months it’s been getting worse. If I sit down and watch some TV, I’m not thinking about me. There is just a side of me missing.

Then think about before adoption and the abuse and trying to figure out where to go. Trying to keep busy so not thinking as much, tire myself out, so not thinking as much. Trying to go with the flow. People ask me to go some place, so I go, can only watch so much TV. Usually that is what I do, come home, plop down in front of TV, instead of socializing.

What do you do for a living?

I work for an independent contractor doing installation and maintenance. Recently had the Christmas or holiday blues. Found myself really struggling trying to read my work orders. My memory has definitely faded. I’ll know I’m in a bind, if feel myself angry for no apparent reason. This morning was a bad one. Got really angry, hopped in the car, popped in some gospel music, which didn’t calm me down.

Are you restless?

Like I’ve got to do something, got to be moving. Friends are always saying I’m never sitting still, always moving. Stay too long in one place… I don’t know, I just like to move.

Sitting around makes me think. All my thoughts go back to my past history. They are not pleasant thoughts, thoughts of poor me. Why was I treated this way? Why can’t I read like everyone else? Why does my reading come in strong on some days, and not on others? Vision comes in and out; some days really straining. Then going back to a foster home, and being jabbed with needles whenever I got a word wrong. I was jabbed with a huge sewing needle. I have to limit myself being around my own kind, they set things off inside - it just burns me. Have to keep my mouth shut, so just sit back or I’ll overreact. I do a lot of talking to myself, “God this is just not right!” Everything always has to go back to before I was adopted.

[I prompt him to tell me more about his past abuse if he is comfortable.]

I’d like to go back if I could. Don’t know if you’ve seen Antoine Fisher. That movie is always on and I always watch it no matter where it is at, wherever it is playing. I have real brothers and sisters out there. Sometimes

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 60 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 61 I have a desire to find them or to go back to people who’ve wronged me and to set them straight. Would that give me some closure? Probably. The dude who used to put me in a box and push me down the stairs, or chase me with knives, or beat on me with bats. If I could just go back in time and whoop his ass. Reflecting, if I could shut this reflecting off, that would be cool.

At one house, boys on one side and girls on the other. Things weren’t fun, the fights - the beatings. I went back when I was in Junior High. It was alright. Nice to go back, but don’t think it would solve anything. This anxiety though, nice to know what that is about.

Anxiety?

I’ll be sitting down, and then have to get up. Then why do I get up, what am I doing? My concentration is totally shot, I get up to do something, then think, what am I doing, what did I get up to do? I think everything needs to be done all at once.

Headaches?

Most of them are in the front of my head. On a day like this (sunny day) usually have to wear sunglasses. Again any time start to think of past things, get that look on my face of concentration. Then it would sit right here (points to vertex), and then radiate. Used to be really bad, but chiropractor helped a lot.

Bad?

Didn’t want to open my eyes. Also these ear muffs, if could block sound, it wasn’t as severe. Got these red earmuffs on, like used for heavy machinery, and sunglasses and hat. Would get pounding headaches, sometimes went right into the nervous system.

Always get a pain on my arm, it was like a bruise. Just to have a shirt to touch it, would hurt, it would move around, sometimes on this arm, or the other arm. It would move around, really weird.

During headaches?

Yes. I’d try to grin and bear it, then sit yourself down in front of the TV, wearing sunglasses while watching. It was the top part of the head.

Anything else around the headache?

No, headaches and sore muscles.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 62 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 63 I wonder if you have any fears or phobias?

The dark, fears of the dark. Always being locked in closets. Imagine yourself being shoved into a box, and then closed on you, and down twelve flights of stairs. Oh! If I could see him now! Or tight places, can’t go on rides with pressure on my chest, or anything tight on my chest - I’ll flip out. Being pinned down.

Which was another one of those things. Being adopted, some foster homes are good, but a lot are just.... just not right. It is funny, the social workers would always ask, how are you doing. You know you have the foster parent right around the corner, always wanted to say something but then knew if I did, would be in more trouble. Didn’t want to be moved from home to home.

I can’t go in any rides, or small areas. If do, really have to concentrate really hard. Which really sucks, because a lot of neat rides I’d like to go on, but seeing a thirty-five year old man flipping out. I just avoid them, and say just not feeling well, instead of telling the truth - scared shitless.

Other fears?

Heights, was another one. Yeah, it is so funny. Everything leads up to this one house, this dude used to pick me up and dangle me above these stairs. Every now and then he’d drop me. So heights, small areas, the dark. The small areas was being shoved into a dryer, and having it turned on. You can see why I don’t want to think.

Now after talking about it today, have to watch it, because will overreact. Any little thing I see, that someone is doing to a small person. Heights, small places, dark, being pushed down, someone restricting me. Having to eat something I really don’t want to. Oh yeah! It used to be water. Used to be fear of water ‘til I learned how to swim. Used to be extremely nervous around water, but thanks to a good teacher, not a phobia of mine anymore.

Most of the fears related to abuse?

Yes, again this one family. Supposed to be given a bath, she couldn’t do it, and foster brother would do it. Haven’t even told my counselor about all of this, it is in the back of my head.

Fears or phobias that aren’t related to the abuse?

All of mine go back to being in the foster homes.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 62 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 63 Other than that, like to think of myself as a pretty good well rounded person.

Animals?

Spiders, centipedes, not too keen on worms or snakes. That’s not connected to abuses; cockroaches, the little white ones that look like rice. Should say bees, too. Always been fascinated with bees, but for some reason get stung when fascinated with them. Something that small can make a person run for his life.

Any hypersensitivities?

Being forced to eat peas or spinach or meat loaf; still can’t stand meatloaf. Any time I come through an apartment building a certain smell hits me, that anxiety hits me.

Peas and beans and spinach for some reason. I’m thinking something, and it flies out of my mouth. I’ll say “I’m not eating that!”, then think to myself, oops I said that out loud. Then try to cover it up. To be polite honestly, peas I have a tough time with, but spinach and cabbage, will stomach them. But peas just can’t. The other one blurting out of my mouth.

Any Nervous habits?

Nail biting. Having to just get up and moving around. The nail biting has gotten really bad, tried hot sauce on my hands, smashing peas on them.

Hot/Cold Body part?

I used to have problems with circulation. Fingers from forearms on down, would go ice cold. It would happen specifically when playing in a basketball game. I couldn’t get them warm. As soon as I stopped playing, then they’d go to sweating as the rest of me was cooling down.

Numbness or tingling sensations?

Every now and then, your hands or feet would go to sleep. It was either one or the other.

Pain threshold?

Normal range, except if you come to me with a needle. Still a huge fear of needles and whoever has it, whoever is holding one. More jumpy around needles than knives.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 64 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 65 Physical health complaints?

With the last girlfriend, I had sexual problems for six months in the middle. Scared the shit out of me actually.

Problem?

Erectile problem.

Urinary?

Bladder infections, had maybe four of those.

Recall?

I’ve had only two girlfriends since High School, had two with Tammy, just typical bladder infections, extremely painful. Blood and all that.

This last relationship was really stressful, going through the abuse, and arguing. Being thrown in jail, being hit by her, getting herpes from her, to getting into a fight with her Dad. Then I said, enough, I’ve got to leave. I’ve done pretty well.

Who are you aside from all that?

That is a really good question. I had a friend who asked me, who I was. And I don’t know. I’ve always seen myself with someone. Friends, along with mom and dad, say you need to find yourself. What does that mean? I love the forest, wanted to be a park ranger, getting out of the city. I know what I like to do. I like to hike, going to the falls. Hiking and camping, love to do all that stuff. Every year I go rafting, that water has a lot of force, scares the crap out of me. It is one that I’ve really been able to overcome, really proud of it.

Thirst?

Will go through the day without drinking. Sometimes go 2 months drinking a lot of water, then the next 2 months I’ll struggle with it.

Lower back?

When in High School, had a severe accident. The car that struck us, I was sleeping near the door, wonder why I’m still alive. So anytime I get stressed out, it would go to my back. Now it is my neck. If holding my head up and stressed it would go into my neck, and then rolling into the shoulders. Describe? Like a nerve is between a bone, and getting rubbed

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 64 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 65 over. A dull but sharp pain.

Sleep?

I lay down, tired, fall asleep. Go to bed eleven or twelve. Sleep two hours, then wake up, or sleep for four hours. Longest I’ve gone is five and a half. Then up and wide awake. In the last five months, really started dreaming heavily. But can’t make out what they are about. Used to have déjà vu feelings all the time. Déjà vu - like I’ve been here. Friends say, no you haven’t. I’d be describing things as if I’d been there before, it was scary.

Recall any Dreams?

I’m walking in these woods, coming out from behind two trees. There is this voice that is calling, want to turn around, but for some reason don’t. Then like about to slip into another dream and another one, but trying to wake myself up, but feel myself slipping more and more. There is pitch black on one half, and on the other half, trees and the house where I grew up. On the other side, our childhood home, where the garden was, it’s totally black. Can’t make out the voice. I’m heading towards the dark, but felt like someway losing myself. Then thought should head back. Then woke up, panic and sweating, heart racing out of my chest.

I used to get that dream all the time, or a face that was always chasing me. It happened after being adopted. It was the same dream. I thought I’d tried to fight it, and as soon as I matched the face, that stopped the dream. It was the face of someone that was always abusing me. Now they are not as deep and as serious, used to have them up until High School, seeing a counselor then.

Anger expression?

There is a side that wants to react, and the other side that doesn’t. Always been picked at, poked at. Not so much is physical. Even with the stuff with last relationship, physical on her end. It was starting to get physical on my end. It is a big huge rage that is building up. I’m not kidding, I said I’m not taking any more abuse from you, your brother, or your father. There is definitely a rage in me.

I have anger and frustration. Why am I in this situation? I don’t want this feeling.

Does something trigger anger at times?

Change is one of those things that can bring it out. The anger slips out.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 66 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 67 Change makes me mad, when there is change, and I don’t feel there needs to be. Change sets me off.

More?

Maybe change is the wrong word.

Confrontation?

There is a side of me that wants to, and the other that wants to let it go.

Opposites?

There is a right way and a wrong way. Whenever I’m doing it the right way, why am I always getting hurt? I’m getting stepped on, now is my time to react.

Now the one that just burns me is that you have to be the bigger man and let it go.

Do you feel contained?

Yes.

Your anger?

It doesn’t show up. I get there. Where it shows up is going off by myself and just crying. For it to come out, it’s like I’d end up losing myself. When I was in jail, everyone thought I’d lost it. My ex-girlfriend had told people that I’d done all this violence to her. Those were things I’m not capable of - I did a week of crying.

Violent?

I lost it dead in the jaw by her father. Wouldn’t let him get the best of me. He’d said I had to leave. It took me back to before I was adopted.

I decided to go back and say goodbye. Then within a few minutes he was coming up behind me. I turn around, then every swear word came out of my mouth. I turned back around, then he hit in me in the jaw and again. For a split second, as soon as I’d reacted, trying not to react. Then realized that now you’d done it. So grabbed him in a bear hug, and we hit the ground.

Then her relatives came out, and a free for all on my back. I don’t remember feeling any blows. I just knew I wasn’t going to go out like this. Rolled around on the ground with him, knew I was going to get a beating.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 66 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 67 Then when they realized I wasn’t doing anything, they let me be, then released. Then I’m starting to cry, looking up to her grandmother, she’d been so nice to me. Then out of the blue, I’m hit twice more by her dad. That is the only time I’d reacted. It is there, just as of this point there is self-control.

Do you have an overactive imagination?

Yes, happens when not concentrating on my driving. Yes, I tend to go over my life, over and over and over. It drives me up the wall. No matter what I’m doing, constantly replaying everything in my life. It just pisses me off. Gets to a point where unable to function. I have dyslexia. Sometimes driving and find myself on the wrong road. It is almost like a black out. That happens occasionally. Other examples? One of the other incidents at work, I was supposed to be doing an installation out of town, and would find myself half way to the wrong city. Or forgetting to pick things up. The driving ones are the main ones, where supposed to be somewhere but end up somewhere else. My concentration is just not there.

Mother (calls on the phone to contribute): He had a lot of anger as a youth. My husband used to say it was like a helium balloon, you had to pull the string down. He’d numb out, like he was floating someplace else. Like he’d be in a conversation, he’d get up and be gone, no good bye. He was out of his seat, extremely hyper in school too. In a twenty minute period out of his seat eleven times. Bedwetting from at least seventh grade ‘til Junior High or eighth grade.

Baseline Symptoms: 1. Lack of Concentration - pretty much all day, reading work orders 2. Dwelling on the past - Daily affair 3. Headaches – four to six headaches in a month 4. Blues - sad, want to go and cry - that is almost daily 5. Phobias - claustrophobia in the back seat 6. Anger - once a week outburst 7. Isolating - avoid friends - daily TV - Daily affair 9. Physical Restlessness 10. Nail biting - daily

Assessment: During the intake I began to suspect a nightshade was indicated. Many themes common in the solanum genus were present. I’d seen several nightshade cases in practice previously (A Stramonium case published in this journal a few years back, for example). In addition, I attended a one-week course on nightshades and their

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 68 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 69 look a likes with Massimo Mangialavori in October of 2005. Massimo’s differential of nightshades really help me to more fully understand the entire family as well as other Rx’s that are outside of the nightshade botanical family entirely. In particular, the two long-term cases he showed of Tanacetum vulgare were virtually indistinguishable with nightshades. In addition, I also learned to understand the differential between Belladonna, Stramonium, Hyoscyamus, and Mandragora in clinical practice. He also covered Solanum nigrum, and some nightshade look-alikes such as Lyssin & Gallic acid.

Discussion about nightshades:

Massimo mentioned how the nightshades are related to controlling ones instincts. The drugs were used in the old times to allow someone to release their inhibitions - to be out of control. In patients requiring nightshades, you often find this conflict. In children who are less compensated, the wildness comes out more readily. But with adults you often see someone who is more controlled, more suppressed as this patient was. This patient talks repeatedly of keeping his anger and rage under control.

This is why archetypes like the dark, water, and wild animals can receive such strong projections with nightshade patients. They have suppressed their “dark side” in order to be able to matriculate in society. They often feel rejected or neglected and are quite resentful and angry about it – as this patient was. Yet sometimes they feel they can’t fully express their outrage as they may lose what little support they feel they are receiving. So they can present as timid or controlled, yet they are often sitting on Pandora’s box. This is stronger in the toxic nightshades or their look-alikes (Bell., Stram., Mand., Hyos., Lyss., & Gallic acid).

The nightshades are also well known for congestion, which he mentioned regarding his pounding headaches. His sensitivity to light and sound during the headaches also helps to confirm the nightshades.

Nightshades (the poisonous ones such as Bell., Stram., etc.) are parasympatholytics. They are neurological toxins that suppress the parasympathetic nervous system. This leaves the sympathetic nervous system unrestrained – the fight or flight response is thus intensified. This leads to a type of “wildness”, a lack of inhibition. This is why you’ll see some nightshades that are somewhat shameless in presentation.

Often we are told to consider Stram., Bell., or Hyos., in children who are violent and out of control. However, nightshades in adults often present as over controlled. They may have a very violent history, but often learn to suppress or even over-control their reactions. They can become emotionally

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 68 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 69 somewhat cold for this reason – this is true in particular of Belladonna. So they present with nervous tics, impulse control issues, rages, etc. This is indicative of their system’s attempt at keeping things under control.

Adult nightshade patients can also often get stuck in their head, in their intellect, to avoid emotions. This is seen in this patient as he talks about trying to wonder why this happened, or brooding on the past, trying to find an answer. They can also avoid emotions via this physical restlessness as he describes. These are used as strategies to avoid experiencing feelings directly.

In this case too, you can see the split between the “dark-side” or the unconscious, and the conscious side. He often refers to having lost one side of himself, or the repeating dream of darkness on one side and light on the other. The voice calling him to the dark side. This again shows the common conflict seen in nightshades with this split, or lack of integration.

Of course the toxic nightshades are also narcotics. But their use in the old times was different from the sacred psychedelics of the old times. Peyote, Ayhausca, and Psilocybin have been traditionally used to alter consciousness and then come back with a lesson; something learned for our conscious side.

Yet the toxic nightshades were often used before battle, to help one do their killing without remorse. Then when the drug wore off, they couldn’t recall their violence. This helps to understand why these different broad classes of narcotics have different applications in homeopathy. Patients needing the sacred narcotics are often struggling with being too open to the universe, struggling between feeling too blended with the larger world, and feeling totally isolated. The nightshades are certainly can also be oversensitive to the world around them. Yet the emphasis is more on struggling with trying to keep their “dark-side” under control.

Nightshades are useful for patients with difficulty integrating their “dark- side” with their daily life. It appears that their dark side is their feelings or needs they had to suppress in the past for fear of being forsaken.

Datura Stramonium – The Nightshade for this case:

I thought this case required Stramonium. My rationale is that he very explicitly talked about being divided, something more common with Stramonium. My experience with Stramonium shows them to be also a bit more sympathetic than some of the other nightshades. In addition, in adults, they are often more scattered than Belladonna. Belladonna patients in adults are often successful business people or someone who presents as having it together more. They are more forceful or adamant at controlling

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 70 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 71 their dark-side. Hyoscyamus usually presents as being more haughty and sure of themselves. In addition, Hyoscyamus often presents as almost proud of their dark side. Mandragora is closer to Stram., in my experience, so I’m not as sure about how to differentiate the two. However, Mandragora seems less clearly divided or scattered than Stramonium in my experience. In addition, in both of my Mandragora cases, the craving for cheese was marked. Here is my MacRepertory graph:

The patient received two dry doses of Stramonium 1M (Boiron) on 12/29/04

Consultation of Monday, January 24, 2005

How are you doing?

The sleep was better. Still four hours of sleep, but now sleeping harder, waking feel more refreshed. Thinking things, going over old stuff, has disappeared. I’m not dwelling on it anymore. The nail biting, nervousness is all still the same.

Baseline Symptoms: 1. Lack of Concentration - pretty much all day, reading work orders Unchanged. 2. Dwelling on the past - Daily affair Stopped 3. Headaches - 4 - 6 headaches in a month No Headaches this month 4. Blues - sad, want to go and cry - almost daily That is not there anymore. 5. Phobias - claustrophobia in the back seat Deferred 6. Anger - once a week outburst Hard to say 7. Isolating - avoid friends 8. TV - Daily

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 70 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 71 That is the same, no change, though I haven’t been watching a lot of TV. Not within the last five days 9. Physical Restlessness It seems like it has subsided, it is still there but not as strong. 10. Nail biting - daily: No change. After I took the Rx, did a week without biting, though that can happen.

Feeling anything around the dosing itself? After I took it, felt a little perky, could take on the world, felt real good. It lasted for a while, just started dropping off last week. More? That anxiety thing is kind of coming back, a restlessness. Dreams? No.

Assessment: Overall – good progress. The brooding, headaches, sleep etc. are better. What is interesting is the blankness the patient presented with today. He seemed to really be struggling internally with various questions, or with comprehension. Given that he was still having difficulty with concentration, and that he suffers from long standing PTSD, I thought it best to give him some additional supportive doses. So a 200c in a one ounce bottle once a week was prescribed. I also gave him some instruction to take doses for acutes in the interim as needed, but he seemed to have some difficulty in understanding my instructions in general. Plan: Stram 200c (Boiron – a few pellets dissolved in a 1 oz dropper bottle) – 4 drops once a week.

Consultation of Monday, March 21, 2005 Now? Concentration is definitely right on point. Definitely more on focus. Just got over a cold, which has been lingering for the past month. For a couple of weeks forgot to take the Rx, but definitely concentration is on point. Anxiety is not bad, it is really not bad, much better than it was. Nervousness it not there anymore, not as much. I’m not replaying anything in my mind anymore. Just everything that is in front of me, dealing with that.

Taking the Rx?

Daily, took it, daily. During the cold, I had anxiety so bad the bedroom I was in wasn’t big enough. I started getting claustrophobia about three weeks ago. It was so bad, couldn’t be in the room. Was pacing around in the house, then couldn’t be in a bigger room and then couldn’t be in the house. I was sick and weak, cold, and had to go outside in the cold. Was outside all night pacing the entire night. I’d come back in, sleep a bit, and then back outside, walking around. That might have been the reason why I stopped the dosing. My mother told me to call you and ask about this – but I didn’t. Light, noise everything was bothering me. (Patient had been

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 72 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 73 taking the 200c daily for several weeks by mistake – a misunderstanding. About a month into dosing he had a strong cold that lasted for several weeks. During the cold, he had a sort of crisis of claustrophobia, anxiety, and hypersensitivity. I believe this was due to his overdosing. However this aggressive dosing also appeared to resolve his concentration problems markedly. After the cold, he also spontaneously discontinued the Rx.)

Baseline Symptoms: 1. Lack of Concentration - pretty much all day, reading work orders Clearly better 2. Dwelling on the past - Daily affair That is done, not anymore 3. Headaches – four to six headaches in a month They are gone, other then when the cold came. 4. Blues - sad, want to go and cry - that is almost daily I’ve slipped back into that. Just noticed that within the last three weeks, but still coming off of the cold, it was a pretty strong cold. Went through my muscles, and my nervous system. Yesterday was a tough day because of the blues. Just this sad feeling. Anything else about that? No, that is it. 5. Phobias - claustrophobia in the back seat Saturday night went out with some friends. Was in the back seat of my truck, and didn’t notice anything. I was in the middle, something I wouldn’t do. Now sitting in vehicles, and it seems to not be so there. 6. Anger - once a week outburst Oh, that is better. My boss said Trimet was about to do something that makes no sense. And I blew it off. Felt myself getting to a point and then it just released. I could say honestly before I would have been just really mad. It is better, would have been really mad. There was also another demonstration of where I’d normally get very angry, and didn’t, just let go. That does seem better. 7. Isolating - avoid friends - daily 8. TV - Daily affair It is getting better. It is still there, but I believe it is getting better 9. Physical Restlessness It feels like it is not there anymore - it is definitely not there. Which has me concerned. Concerned? Yes, if do happen to relax too much, may go back to sitting in front of the TV, rather be out moving around. Still can’t go to church by myself. Still can’t go food shopping by myself. Improvement in shopping? No. It is like not feeling like going to church. And grocery shopping, I just don’t want to do it. 10. Nail biting - daily:

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 72 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 73 Ass: Continued progress. It appears as if Stramonium is the accurate Rx here. His initial progress was good, yet the concentration was not improving. Now that is clearly improving, and the other initial improvements have been retained. To further his healing progress, I gave him a few doses of 1M and a follow-up date of about two months. I expect he will notice further progress again by that point.

Plan: 1.) Stramonium 1M dry – one dose a day for two days 2.) Return to clinic in two months for follow-up

Consultation of Wednesday, May 18, 2005 How are you doing? I’m doing well. I’ve had a friend that moved back from Chicago. Been talking a lot with her, started to go in reverse, started to feel the blues, depression was setting in, but lasted for three days. After I realized what was happening in my mind I was okay. I consider that a huge improvement. Huge improvement? I would have expected to dwell on it and run it through on my mind. When it starts to rain, that is also when the blues set in. Been buzzing right along, friends wonder where I get all this energy from. Anything else from when you first came in? Still biting my nails, that is deep down, don’t know about that one. My stress levels have been really low. Had another incident where would have dwelt on something in my volunteer work with kids and didn’t. Baseline Symptoms: 3. Headaches – four to six headaches in a month They have started up again. In the middle of last month, they started up. Prior to that, not having any, or maybe one or two. Now it is more like four times per week. Been a long week, a fender bender last week, and this thing that happened with my coaching. Saw a person have a heart attack at a wedding, really freaked me out. Also saw someone have an asthma attack. These are normal things that would really set me off, but they haven’t. Another stress would be, taking on more of a coaching role, have stepped up. 4. Blues - sad, want to go and cry - that is almost daily. Other than me stepping on head coach’s toes, it has only happened once in the last two months. 5. Phobias - claustrophobia in the back seat That is completely gone, been doing a lot of sitting in back seats, really interesting. 6. Anger - once a week outburst I still feel that building up from frustration - really wanting to lash out. It is pretty strong.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 74 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 75 Frequency? I don’t think it is there as much. There is a difference. 7. Isolating - avoid friends - daily That one snuck up on me. I have friends, not necessarily the world’s greatest friends. But been going over to friends houses. Isolating not so frequent now? Yes, not at all, but still a pull there. 10. Nail biting - daily No change.

Ass: Good response all around. Yet his headaches are recurring somewhat and there is still some stagnation in some symptoms. So I suggested a single dose of the 1M he has at home.

Consultation of Monday, July 18, 2005 How are you doing?

Everything was going real great, until last month. Everything has kind of worn off. Back to getting four hours of sleep. The sleep part is getting bad again. I felt depressed for about three weeks, now coming out of that. Focus hasn’t been too bad. Now everything .. the sleep is not there, it is four hours. The nails, I’m still biting the nails. Old memories are coming up. It was bad where if thought about it would have started crying, but kept myself busy. Still hanging out with friends instead of staying by myself. It felt like a little depression, sleep, nail biting. This would be the time where I separated from my girlfriend – two years ago. Three weeks ago would be right around when it happened.

Difficult break for you?

Yes.

Up until three weeks ago, doing okay?

Yes, doing fine.

Sleep?

It is waking up, then unable to go back to sleep, until the time I’m supposed to be getting up.

Does the anger seem excessive to you?

I am speaking more to our contractor, so that is a good sign.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 74 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 75 Standing up for yourself?

Yes, actually do feel that way, not being passive.

Any other complaints?

No.

Your sense of the treatment?

It has been real good, feels like this tug of war inside of me, not being quite used to... Sleep was cool when I was getting it. Not being passive but speaking up. I’ve got nothing but positive things to say about it.

Ass: Sounds like anniversary of old relationship breakup may have relapsed the patient. I recommended he take a daily dose of 1M to see if that would get his sleep and other symptoms back on track.

Plan: Stramonium daily from bottle (a few pellets in 1 oz bottle) 4 drops under the tongue once a day for 7 days – than discontinue.

Consultation of Tuesday, September 06, 2005 How did that week’s worth of dosing work?

It helped with the sleeping.

Doing?

Pretty good.

Any concerns?

No, though still biting the nails. The irritability has gone done, not as intense as before. I haven’t really had anxiety.

Things that were done to you in the past, how do you feel?

If I saw them today, I’d kick the shit out of them, anger. Not going to let you get away with this. That is pretty much it.

How are things in relationships?

Still don’t have a girlfriend, going on three years - not seeing anyone. I was going to dance clubs fairly regularly and then just stopped. I would go out but not so interested. Family life is tough for me. To hang out with my family, everyone

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 76 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 77 is married. My brother had a child and I couldn’t get myself to hold it. Afterwards I come home to my own place and start to feel sorry for myself, my brother has it together and I don’t. So avoid getting together with the family. That has been a problem throughout. But when I do go, do enjoy the time with everyone. But often after leaving whatever function it was, I’m not happy about where I am. I’m emotional, but no tears, no crying. I’m sure they are all trying to figure out why I didn’t want to hold the baby.

You have an idea why?

No.

Baseline Symptoms: 1. Lack of Concentration - pretty much all day, reading work orders It is fine now, it really is. 2. Dwelling on the past - Daily affair Still happening. Still everyday? It is just for a second. Just that thought pops in my head, than it is gone. Feels different/same? It is different, now it is like a blip. Dwell on it for maybe five minutes, then it is gone, out of my head. Before? It was all day, dwelling on the same thing, or a group of things. 3. Headaches – four to six headaches in a month. No headaches 4. Blues - sad, want to go and cry - that is almost daily I was in an motional state after watching the Katrina floods. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. That was a really emotional thing, really hard to watch. For thirty-five minutes was in tears talking with my mom and other friends. It really hit home with me, made me really emotional. Something in particular? Head officials said they have it under control, and then seeing everything unfold the way it did. Babies being in the street dying with people - people being displaced. Took five days for things to get moving and being unable to go down and help. It really upset me, still does. I cried for thirty-five minutes, then after that was on to other things. The stuff you’ve given me helped so I could move on. 5. Phobias - claustrophobia in the back seat We went to the Oregon Caves. They had sixteen of us all together. I told them I didn’t know if I could handle it, so watch me. You get that cold air that hit me. I was the last one in. It was tight - really, really tight. The ranger shut this big gate behind me, it was getting worse, I was pulling on my collar, plus it was dark. Everybody was bumping up against each other.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 76 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 77 Then I began to back out. After about fifteen minutes had calmed down pretty quickly. I would have to have gotten out, I was pretty happy. Difference? Yes, I was able to get it together, took some breaths. Enjoy it? Yes, really did. Wasn’t the other thing heights, I walked up this one hundred and fifty foot ladder. Coming down was difficult, had to focus on the ladder. Really happy with the heights though - not as bad. 6. Anger - once a week outburst I think that is okay now. 7. Isolating - avoid friends - daily 8. TV - Daily affair Doing great 10. Nail biting - daily Unchanged

Ass: Patient is doing very well in all major symptoms. The only symptoms that are holding out are the biting nails and perhaps the physical restlessness. I told him we’ll be spacing out follow-ups to every three months for a few more follow-ups, then they’ll be as needed.

Final Case Note: The last Consultation was Tuesday, June 27, 2006. At that intake the patient was doing very well. All symptoms were either entirely gone or so markedly improved that he was not concerned. The only symptom that was unchanged was nail biting. I suggested we end formal treatment at this point. We could have worked on the nail biting and perhaps deepening the improvements, but this seemed unnecessary. I also got the idea he was coming to treatment at this point a bit blindly. I wanted to give him the choice to resume treatment from his volition. He agreed this was a good idea. I was also concerned because up until now his mother had been paying and I know he has a low paying job.

A parting note about Massimo Mangialavori’s teaching: I’ve been studying with Massimo Mangialavori since 1998. He talks about studying materia medica via cured cases. This has become a growing and profound reality for me. Of course learning from the provings and repertory are always important. However, I was never able to read materia medica and understand the remedies and how it might apply to a patient. But once one has seen a cured case, whether someone else’s or one’s own, that is the beginning of understanding a remedy. By extension, this also helps to learn the family of the remedy. Another fundamental teaching is that of learning to see the greater themes or trends in a patient rather than just symptoms. He also talks a lot about understanding remedies and people by looking at the underlying strategy of the patient – how they are getting their needs met as constrained by their

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 78 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 79 pathology. These lessons have particularly helped with autistic patients, unwilling teens, and some delusional patients. Often these patients won’t give us some of the deeper symptoms we prefer. Using themes and patient strategies has helped to solve some very difficult cases where the patient was unable or unwilling to disclose deeper details. As examples, I currently have two autistic boys who were unable to speak. One case is doing wonderful on Lac Felinum, the other on Coca. I also have a paranoid delusional patient who was adamantly claiming she had no problems or complaints– physical or mental. She was brought in by her daughter who in a separate interview, revealed intractable paranoid delusions. That patient is doing wonderful on Thea. The above cases were solved using the larger themes and strategies of the patients rather than looking for symptoms that were simply not available. Using Massimo’s specific theory of families was also fundamental to solving these cases as well as many others. Massimo also uses modern psychology to elucidate a more contemporary understanding of the psyche. Besides teaching with his long term cures, he also shows his deeper understanding of the patient and the remedy from many different angles. This has helped me to truly understand remedies, instead of just seeing a remedy as a list of symptoms. It is hard to use words to convey how profoundly this teaching has impacted the accuracy and ease now common in my practice. In the beginning as a student, one needs to borrow other good prescribers knowledge by studying their long-term cured cases. But as I’ve seen good cures of many families of remedy, rare as well as common ones, it has completely altered my perception. It is common now for me to give a remedy that works well and deeply right from the first visit, doing all the repertorization and differential during the initial intake (a first visit is two hours or less). As my working body of knowledge has expanded I’ve seen more and more cures with a full range of remedies. I mostly credit this to Massimo’s grounded clinical knowledge as well as my own growing database of long- term cured cases. Massimo’s teaching is about learning how to fish for oneself. It has helped me to grow and express my love of homeopathy through beautiful and growing successes with my patients.

Tim Shannon N.D. is a passionate and tenacious homeopathic physician. His intestion is to prescribe a precise single remedy that will cover all problems in each patient and hold for many years. In particular he is specializing in mental, emotional and behavioral conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, ADD, Autism, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, etc. His current homeopathic mentor is Massimo Mangialavori, along with many contemporary and classical authors. Dr. Shannon practices in Portland, Oregon. He enjoys being out in nature, swimming, hiking and meditating.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 78 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 79    :      Jennifer Smith, ND, DHANP Kathleen Farrar, Psy.D.

In Aphorism 74 of the Organon, Hahnemann talks about the artificially produced states of allopathic treatment. He lists them by name: calomel, corrosive sublimate, mercurial ointment, nitrate of silver, iodine and its ointments, opium, valerian, cinchona bark and quinine, foxglove, prussic acid, sulphur and sulphuric acid, and perennial purgatives.

The Organon was first published in 1810.

In July, 2004, I met KC, a 45 year old, single, white male who was on the following medications, prescribed by his psychiatrist, to treat Bipolar II Disorder:

Daytime Evening

60 mg Geodon 40 mg Nexium 40 mg Nexium 400 mg Seroquel 25 mg Levoxyl 100 mg Topomax 05 mg Klonopin 1.0 mg Klonopin 10 mg Ambian 150 mg 5HTP 0.01 % Desmopressin Acetate Nasal Spray 2 sprays

This list almost equals the number of medications on Hahnemann’s list. The difference is that Hahnemann’s list was for all of allopathic medicine. This list was for one patient. This is the conundrum of the modern day homeopath; finding the simillimum beneath the artificial drug states.

In Aphorism 75 Hahnemann says, “These inroads on human health effected by the allopathic non-healing art (more particular in recent times) are of all chronic diseases the most deplorable, the most incurable and I regret to add that it is apparently impossible to discover or to hit upon any

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 80 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 81 remedy for their cure when they have reached considerable height.”

If it was next to impossible in 1810 (with only a handful of allopathic drugs clouding the picture) to get the correct remedy, what chance do we have with our current medical mess of selecting the curative remedy?

It is rare these days to encounter patients who are not on at least one prescription medication. Psychiatric drugs, in particular, are increasingly common. Finding the correct remedy today, in light of multiple obfuscating factors (such as medications) can be difficult but very necessary work. It is essential that we stay on task, however, since homeopathy may be the saving grace for a very sick society. The case presented in this article was chosen to serve as an example of persevering with homeopathy, even in the face of polypharmacy.

I was fortunate enough to have an experienced clinical psychologist sit in with me to help me on this case. This proved to be extremely beneficial. She was able to inform me of side effects common to the psychiatric drugs the patient was on, as well as to help the patient feel comfortable transitioning from allopathic treatment to homeopathy. This case has been edited for brevity. It will include comments by Kathleen Farrar, Clinical Psychologist and case consultant.

Case: 45 yr old white male. Chief complaint: Bipolar II Disorder with Panic Disorder Occupation: technical sales

July 2004

Observations: The patient was punctual to his appointment. He was neatly dressed. He brought a list of his medications. He relayed his history in a very impersonal, monotone voice. He had puffiness under his eyes.

History: Recurrent suicidal depression alternating, at times, with hypomania that he experiences as being, “flooded with thoughts”. He reported having taken many different prescribed medications for a number of years. He has been on the current medications for three years. He has a thirty year history of polysubstance abuse, though he has been drug and alcohol-free for about two years. He regularly attends Narcotics Anonymous. He is the youngest of 4 boys. He reported that his parents had no energy by the time he was born. He said that his father was a violent alcoholic and his mother was a prescription drug addict. In his youth, he had a lot of anger and resentment and was “uncontrollable”.

The patient reported that the medications he had been taking for years had “destroyed” his sexual function and desire. He explained that he had been

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 80 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 81 hypersexual prior to drug therapy. In the first meeting, he talked about his hard-earned abstinence from illicit drugs and alcohol, and expressed his desire to be free of psychiatric medications as well. He volunteered that he understood the need for supervised, methodical reduction of the psychiatric medications. He wanted to work simultaneously with his psychiatrist and myself to be “weaned” from psychiatric medications at the same time that he was undergoing homeopathic treatment.

The patient reported: “The drugs have screwed with my stability. It is frightening! I know I have a long road to get away from the meds, so that I can be an acceptable, productive member of society. I could have lost my job because of the bad days. I feel low for days. I am withdrawn and I don’t want to be alive. I am hopeless. I am dark, desperate, and alone with no hope. There is nowhere to go and nowhere to hide. It is so dark I could take my own life. There is no relief from the pain. It takes over my life. I have anxiety that is terrible and hideous and frightening. It comes out of nowhere and I can’t hide from it. I just ball up in a fetal position to get some relief. It shouldn’t happen to you. It shouldn’t happen to your worst enemy. Saddam Hussein should have the anxiety I have. That’s the punishment he should get because that is true pain and suffering. It should not happen to anyone.”

Sleep: Difficult, the patient reports feeling “wired” and exhausted. Has used medications for years due to insomnia. Never remembers his dreams.

Fears: failure, anxiety, relapse, “this thing will kill me whatever it is”

Hobbies: softball, skiing, art, target shooting (“but I would never kill anything”). “I used to have a motorcycle but took severe chances with my hyper manic states. I had problems with wrecks while on drugs.”

When he was asked to describe more about himself, the patient went on to say, “It is a war. These are the battles that need to be fought. I will get better, but not overnight. The medications maybe helped fifty percent but they screwed up the other fifty percent. It helped thirty percent of my life, but took the pleasure out of forty percent. This is too high a price to pay. I had no balance. Never! I am sick and tired of hiding from society and being isolated. I choose to be an acceptable, productive member of society and I am here looking for answers. I don’t have any enemies in my life. I don’t deserve this. I feel attacked. With all the evil Saddam Hussein has done, it feels like he should feel this. I am not evil. I don’t feel worthless. I pray to God, please take this away from me. I am a mature man. I have no problems with people, places or things. I don’t hate dogs, women or society. I am religious and spiritual. I was hostile as a young man, but never had problems with the law.”

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 82 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 83 Patient reported always feeling better with music.

Assessment: Drawing from Rajan Sankaran’s work on kingdoms, I determined that KC needed a remedy from the mineral kingdom. He was very organized, and spoke in terms of percentages. He spoke often of balance and stability. He referred to his work, abilities and productivity. His language suggested attack and defense and issues of performance, as distinct from relationships and family, which led me to look at metals.

Remedies considered:

Aurum metallicum: Suicidal depression, better from music, responsible, praying, music ameliorates Mercury: Delusion of enemies/ battles, history of anger/resentment, impulse to run away, loss of power (both remedies listed under rubric: Fear of evil) Cuprum metallicum: Delusion of attack, needing to be a productive member of society, fear of society (Phatak), mental exhaustion from lack of sleep (Nash). Ferrum Metallicum: Delusions of being at war, fear of evil, fear of attack.

Rx: Cuprum metallicum 30c.

Follow-up visit August 2004

The patient reported that he was “racy”. He still gets episodes of feeling attacked. He feels scared and out of control. He reports feeling “racy” and fatigued at the same time though overall the fatigue is a little better. He felt the first two weeks after the remedy that these episodes were less severe. He said, “I think we have hit a correct note, but we need to be more aggressive.”

I had the patient describe in detail his feelings of being attacked. I learned much more during this follow- up visit by having him continue to describe his experience until he began gesturing. I learned that he had to leave work every day to go home and cover up in bed until these episodes passed, before he could return to work. He described the episodes as being a surge of adrenaline in his body.

Patient’s words: “I have to run. I can’t fight it. I would battle gloriously if it would work, but I have no control because I do not know what I am battling. Seventy percent of the time I am fine, but then this feeling comes over me and I have no control. My heart races, but I try and stay quiet. It is like a locomotive, a steamroller that rolls over the top of me. This should happen to no human being. I am an acceptable, responsible member of

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 82 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 83 society and I must keep fighting the good fight. I am not a character defect. I am no less of a quality person.”

Rx: Cuprum arsenicum 6c qd and prn with “episodes”

September, 2004

Follow-up visit: The patient came in smiling. He was cheerful and animated.

Patient’s words: “I have had a remarkable four weeks! Since the remedy I have only had one episode and it went away immediately with the pill. I’ve had one bad day in four weeks. That is truly an unbelievable miracle. The Geodon 60 mg. was cut to 40 mg. and then to 20 mg. I have asked my psychiatrist to decrease all of my medication. I have had no depression or mania. I have had no anxiety for four weeks. I have had a significant change in energy. I have not had to leave work with anxiety and panic. Only one or two times have I had to take a second pill. This significant change is something that I hoped for, but I didn’t expect. I dealt with those symptoms so long, and now they have left. This is an unbelievable dream come true. My sexual side effects have decreased and I am dreaming again.”

Rx: continue Cuprum arsenicum 6c

November 2004

Follow-up visit:

The patient reported feeling stressed and out-of-balance. However, he said that he was still doing well, overall. He reported having vitality and energy. He said he was “feeling stable and “great”, but in the back of his mind he said he knew he was not 100%”. The patient seemed anxious. He reported that his psychiatrist was continuing to decrease his medication. The psychiatrist wanted to know what I was giving him and the patient told him. I need to mention here, that the patient always kept notes and wanted to know exactly which remedy he was on, as well as potency. His psychiatrist told him that I was killing him slowly with Arsenic and Copper and that it would not show up on his autopsy. The patient said, “I don’t care. I know this (homeopathy) is working for me.”

Assessment: I discussed this session with the psychologist that was sitting in on this case. She felt that his anxiety was most likely stemming from a combination of the warning KC had received from his psychiatrist, and his unfamiliarity with homeopathy.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 84 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 85 Rx: Cuprum arsenicum 200c

12/2004

Follow-up visit

Patient’s words: “I have come so far with homeopathy that I am not going back to medicine. I feel good. I remember what it felt like and I don’t want to go back there. I am taking stability for granted now. I have overwhelming gratitude. I feel good.”

Rx: Sac lac.

Note: I moved to North Carolina, but followed up with the patient via email and phone consultations. The Cuprum arsenicum 200c was repeated approximately every three months, with sac lac given once per month. After eleven months he was given one dose of Cuprum arsenicum 1M

December 2005

Follow-up via telephone

Patient’s words: “I have come a long way since I started homeopathy. I was pretty medicated when we started this. My energy is fine. It has improved a great deal. I don’t have the restless energy that I did before.”

The patient was slowly able to reduce his psychiatric medication. As of December 2005 he was continuing to go to Narcotics Anonymous meetings.

As of August 2006 the patient had weaned himself off all but 25 mg. of Seroquel, with the intention of being completely drug free. He periodically repeats Cuprum arsenicum 1M.

Discussion: This case became a little more difficult to follow long distance in terms of dosing and potency but the remedy continued to help. The patient was very pleased with the results. I chose the remedy based on the characteristics of Cuprum metallicum which has the feeling of being attacked, and attacked in paroxysms (verses attacked constantly as in Zinc). Rajan Sankaran’s explanation of the rubric: Delusion he is selling green vegetables was helpful in this case. That was my interpretation of the statement that the patient repeatedly made about needing to be a productive member of society. The patient was very serious minded. I chose Cuprum arsenicum to more closely match the simillimum in regards to the restlessness and anxiety of Arsenicum. The patient did not believe

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 84 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 85 his psychiatrist when he told him that I was trying to kill him, thought it did trigger some anxiety. This patient did not have physical symptoms. I began with a low potency until it was clear that the remedy was correct. The thing that seemed to be missing in this case, which I have experienced in other Cuprum cases, was the physical symptom of spasms or cramping. It was difficult in the beginning of the case to distinguish the state of the patient from his drugged state. For example, as the patient continued with the remedy over our two years of contact, he continued to speak in a somewhat monotone voice. However in the beginning of the case he had a kind of robotic affect, which changed through the course of treatment. At times, I felt I was interviewing a robot, or machine. Was robotic affect secondary to the Geodon or other medications he was on? Did his affect become more animated as a result of the withdrawal of this and other medications or from being on the remedy?

I try and imagine what Hahnemann would do in this day and age. My guess is that in spite of being exasperated with allopathic medicine, he would continue to weed through layers of drug histories to get to the similliumum for as many people as he could.

Comments from a clinical psychologist: With the patient’s informed consent, I sat in and asked the patient questions to discern the nature of his psychiatric condition. I was interested in discovering whether he had any formal thought disorder, plan to commit suicide, intent to harm others, intractable personality disorder, or ongoing substance abuse that might interfere with his treatment response. His psychiatric medication profile (i.e., two atypical antipsychotics, a hypnotic, a benzodiazepine, and an anticonvulsant, used off-label to treat bipolar disorder) suggested severe mental illness rather than his diagnosis of combined Bipolar II Disorder and Panic Disorder. I noted that some of his medications would have to be slowly reduced for safety reasons. KC’s medication regimen was fraught with potential onerous side effects and interactive effects, many of which could account for KC’s robotic presentation, monotone voice, anxiety and depression. I had no doubt that KC had been prescribed potent psychiatric medications in an attempt to ameliorate refractory psychiatric symptoms, but the polypharmacy approach appeared to be producing far more problems than it was resolving.

I saw KC again following his positive response to Cuprum arsenicum. I was very interested to learn that he was being weaned off his psychiatric medications successfully. I was amazed at his improvement on a remedy. He had greatly improved quality of life and work performance. He also achieved peace-of-mind on the remedy. Instead of taking five different psychiatric medications (all with long lists of warnings/precautions, adverse reactions, and drug interactions), he was taking a single remedy. I’m a believer in homeopathy now, and I’m eager to be a part of bridging

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 86 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 87 homeopathy and psychology because through working together and learning from each other, we can bring mental health to a higher level.

Jennifer Smith, ND, DHANP is a 1991 graduate of the National College of Naturopathic Medicine. She practices homeopathy in Statesville, NC.

Kathleen Farrar, Psy.D. is a Clinical Psychologist practicing in Statesville, NC. She has worked in the field of mental health for 20 years, and has a special interest in integrative medicine.

ALIZE TIMMERMAN ��

7829 Terrace Drive. El Cerrito, CA 94530 Phone or fax: 1-877-850-5078 International Fax: 1-415-302-7592

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Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 86 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 87  :   Jennifer Smith, ND, DHANP

A seventy year old white male veteran of WWII reported that he had suffered a “bad feeling” on the left side of his head and face for the past twenty years. Despite years of seeing various VA physicians in search of relief, he remained in pain. Since I had successfully treated his wife for abdominal problems, he decided to give homeopathy a try.

In the patients words: “I have had this bad feeing in my face and head for twenty years. It feels like a divider down the center of my forehead. It sometimes feels like a spasm and sometimes like a cramp. It goes down into my throat on the left side. The first therapy I did was Valium to try and cover it up. At one time, the left side of me could be cold and the right side hot, and vice versa. I would perspire on one side and not the other. Sometimes the pain will go down my left arm and leg, but it bothers me the most in my head.”

Homeopath: “Divider?”

Patient: “A mark down through my face. The left side draws and cramps like tightening up. My left jawbone gets sore as well as my left ear and scalp. It pulls down. It feels like inside there is a drawing, pulling down and taking away from how I think. I feel a little pain to my left shoulder and chest. I have had to fight it all these years. I used to function like I should. Others donʼt understand. It is awful, bothersome, worrisome and aggravating.”

The patient reported that he was not particularly chilly or warm. He has regular bowel movements. Heʼs had flu shots for the past four years. He said he had no fears, but when probed a little more, he said he didnʼt like heights and he didnʼt like to fly in airplanes. His hobbies included fishing, watching sports on TV and gardening. He loves animals; especially horses. He said his relationship with his wife was good. He got along well with his family. He reported having had numerous brain scans with negative results. The patient slept adequately (with CPAP), and did not remember dreams. He said he had no real food cravings or aversions and little thirst.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 88 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 89 After gathering more basic information I had him describe again his face pain.

Patient: “It is drawing and pulling. It feels tight, not relaxed.”

The patient was gesturing as he talked about drawing and pulling. I had him describe the gesture.

Patient: “Tightness of my muscles, a tight spasm that doesnʼt relax. It is like a metal that expands when it is hot and contracts when it is cold. When it reacts, it draws back. It is a numbing feeling. A drawing, like a muscle cramping.”

Q: “Drawing?”

Patient: “A pulling, a tension”

Q: “Describe pulling?”

Patient: “Tight.”

Q: “Tight?”

Patient: “Yes, not relaxing. I canʼt pinpoint the first time this happened. I just stayed busy and kept my thoughts off everything. It first happened in 1973 or 1974. I was sent to a psychiatrist who put me on pain medication for depression.”

Q: “Can you say more?”

Patient: “The depression is that I didnʼt want to do anything. I didnʼt want to see anybody. I had no desire to get up and go. I was never suicidal.”

I asked the patient if he had any other similar sensations or pain and he reported a history of severe leg cramps.

Rx: Cuprum metallicum 1M

Follow up visit: Two months later

Patient: “After I took that medicine that feeling in my head was much, much better. I am still not 100% natural, but it is nothing like it was by any means. It is such a relief.”

Q: “When did you notice it start to change?” Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 88 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 89 Patient: “Two days after the remedy. A burden lifted with my face being better.”

The patient went on to report that the drawing pain was gone. He said he had an occasional “tiny headache”, but nothing like what he had been experiencing before the remedy. He said that the “divider” feeling on his face was gone.

Rx: gave sac lac in the office, while sending him home with one packet of Cuprum metallicum 1M with instructions to repeat the remedy if the drawing facial pain returned and continued for more than a few days.

Follow-up visit: Seven months later

“Patient: “I have done well until two weeks ago. I was traveling with friends for a week. That copper thing you gave me helped me for a very long time, but now my left side has that thing again. It came back about a month after I saw you the last time and I took the packet you gave me. It went away again when I took it. Recently I had vertigo and the doctor sent me for test. Everything came back negative. They couldnʼt find a reason for it. They checked my eyes, arteries, and everything was fine. Sleep is good. The drawing pain is back.”

I had the patient describe the pain, and it was exactly as he had described in earlier visits.

Rx: Cuprum metallicum 1M

Assessment: This patient was somewhat reserved. He seemed very considerate and respectful. Cuprum came to mind very early on in the initial interview because of the description of the drawing pain, but I remained open to all possibilities. Drawing from Rajan Sankaranʼs work with gestures, I felt satisfied withCuprum when we came to the place in the interview when the patient started describing his pain as a metal that expanded and contracted. I found it interesting to note later that this particular patient said that he had worked with copper wiring most of his working life as an electrician.

Some materia medica and rubric information helpful in understanding Cuprum metallicum is as follows:

Allenʼs Encyclopedia: Head; drawing pain in many places in the head. A pressing pain in the left temple. Face: drawing beneath the chin from without inward. Pressive pain in face in front of ear Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 90 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 91 Boenninghausenʼs repertory: Head, drawing, temple, left

Boerickeʼs repertory: Face, contraction of jaws

Zandvroort Millennium Repertory: Head, drawn backward, forward, sideways.

Kentʼs Lectures: “Cuprum is pre-eminently a convulsive medicine. It has convulsions in every degree of violence from mere twitching of little muscles and single muscles to convulsions of all the muscles in the body. It has twitching, quivering, trembling and also tonic contractions.From what I have said you will see that the Cuprum is above all others , the spasmodic case. His so full of cramps.”

Farringtonʼs Lesser Writings: “pains in the involuntary muscles usually associated with a great deal of congestion and cramps.”

Scholtenʼs Picture of Cuprum metallicum: Serious hard working responsible people. Rigid, precise. They donʼt want to lose control on the emotional level.

In terms of differential diagnosis even though Grapites has some similar physical symptoms, such as drawing pain, it was easy to rule out in the mental and emotional realms. Graphites is anxious, hurried and excitable. They are unable to decide between things. Kent says they canʼt make up their mind. The patient in this case was more as Scholten describes Cuprum metallicum, in control, precise. Aconite has drawing pain in the face, but again the emotional state was calm and controlled, unlike the restlessness in Aconite. There are a number of remedies with this similar drawing pain; many of the Kaliʼs have it, and some of the animal remedies such as Lachesis, as well as some of the plant remedies such as Ledum. Overall though Cuprum metallicum, as Kent reminds us, is full of contractions and cramps. I was satisfied in this case with the patient describing a metal that contracts and expands. I even asked the patient what metal he was describing and he said, “Oh I donʼt know, something like…, well, probably copper.” The only difficultly that I had with this case, was hearing that someone suffered for 20 years when the cure was so simple.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 90 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 91 ��

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Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 95 ��

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Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 96 The Hans Walz Foundation at the Robert Bosch Foundation announces herewith the:           which originated outside the Institute for the History of Medicine of the Robert Bosch Foundation.

Hans Walz (1873-1974) was a right-hand man of Robert Bosch the Elder and for many years CEO of the Robert Bosch Company as well as member of the board of trustees of the Stuttgart Homoeopathic Hospital Corporation. Throughout his life he was professionally and personally engaged in advancing homeopathy.

The aim of the prize is to promote the research of the history of homeopathy outside the Institute for the History of Medicine of the Robert Bosch Foundation. The prize will be awarded for a major study (Master- or Diploma- thesis, doctoral dissertation, monograph) which is either still unpublished or published in 2005, 2006 or 2007. The language can be German, English or French. The prize amounts to 1000 Euro.

The winner of the prize will be chosen by a jury, and the prize will be awarded every second year in Stuttgart.

The work of the first winner of the prize is published (together with the Karl und Veronica Carstens-Stiftung) under the title: Michael E. Dean: The Trials of Homeopathy. Origins, Structure and Development, Essen 2004 (www.kvc- verlag.de). The work of the second winner of the prize, Jens Busche, Ein homöopathisches Patientennetzwerk im Herzogtum Anhalt-Bernburg (Diss. med, TU München) is forthcoming in the series “Quellen und Studien zur Homöopathiegeschichte“ (Haug-Verlag, Stuttgart).

Deadline for nominations and applications is 30th of August 2007.

Applications (including two copies of the study) should be addressed to:

Prof. Dr. Martin Dinges Institute for the History of Medicine of the Robert Bosch Foundation Straussweg 17 D-70184 Stuttgart Germany e-mail: [email protected]

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 94   :       Adapted from a forthcoming book: Turning the Great Ship, Reversing the Course of Chronic Illness, Exploring the Convergence of Homeopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Biomedicine, by Jerry M. Kantor, Lic. Ac., MMHS. CMS Press 2006

Although many health care practitioners and patients support a genuine effort on behalf of integrative medicine, too often the call for such an agenda is met with posturing, territorialism, and procrastination. Assuming that it is possible to produce such a thing, a demonstration of medicineʼs inherent unity is perhaps more likely to pay dividends than empty talk or enforced collegiality among researchers possessed of vastly divergent perspectives. The following article is excerpted from a book I have written that ventures to model diagnostics and clinical principles with a view to embracing three powerful and unique medical traditions: homeopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and biomedicine. For me the end result provides an intriguing network of bridges, a means to sharpen remedy study, and a technique fruitful in areas of personal interest, such chronic illness, cancer, infertility, and evolutionary theory. I look forward to learning if others find it similarly useful or are interested in extending my effort.

Homeopathy lacks a useful feature that is native to TCM: ability to model healthful function as well as pathology. Over the past decade I have sought to update and reformulate a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Five Element (or Five Phases) system. My purpose in doing so was to develop a model by means of which biomedical disease profiles can be compelled to surrender their hidden meaning, but that can function as a template upon which homeopathic materia medica can be superimposed, or mapped as well. There exists a technical, although cumbersome term with which my working method, one equally respectful towards the vitalistic and the conventional biological perspective may be described: phenomenology. As my investigation leads to an analysis of the deep meaning of the five

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 95 senses the term I have designated for this is Sense Dimensional Analysis.

Linking Homeopathy and TCM As our starting point we accept that the clinical terrains of these two healing systems are grounded in the same assumptions: v) For diagnostic purposes, mutual dependence on identification and assessment of a sensitivity imbalance; 2) Agreement that the five senses are preeminent in allowing us to perceive and participate in the world and; 3) Willingness to test the utility of a new idea, Sense Dimensional Analysis for modeling the sensitivity imbalance underlying either an illness state, or a homeopathic remedy picture.

Although indispensable to literacy, learning the individual letters of the alphabet, does not, in and of itself, allow us to read and write. Nor, when experienced separately from one another, do smell, touch, taste, sound or sight perceptions even begin to suggest sinesthesia, a unified and largely consistent, experience of the world resulting from all of the senses being simultaneously engaged. Similarly, knowledge of the separate sense dimensions, provides but a necessary, preliminary step toward understanding of the nature of a fully portrayed remedy state. Although merely a primer with regard to the sense dimensions, the process nonetheless bears fruit, disclosing: A concise set of five polar oppositions each of which represent a core issue housed within independently considered sensorium, and can be thought of as a dimension. The polar oppositions are identified with a specific Five Element Phases and body systems. Thus:

• Synchrony vs Isolation underlies Touch (Fire) and blood circulation; • Challenge vs Anxiety underlies Taste (Earth) and metabolism; • Centeredness vs Disorientation underlies Smell (Metal) and respiration; • Consolidation vs Entropy underlies Hearing (Water) and reproduction; and • Creativity vs Chaos underlies Sight (Wood) and neural function.

In a familiar but telling example, the word “illuminate” means both to shed light upon, and to elucidate. Phenomenological analysis of the Dimension of Sight (pertaining to TCMʼs Wood Element in the Five Phases system) directs us to further examine the properties of light in accordance with which its presence is known. These include: lightʼs random movement, lightning speed, ambiguity, specular nature (diffusion), wavelength, identification with purity, ability to beckon and to exalt. The following segment, a discussion of lightʼs purity, ability to beckon and exalt provides background for an analysis of a medical condition, Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophic whose core issue involving a lack of grounding, reflects a crisis arising within the Dimension of Sight. Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 96 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 97 Pure, Beckoning and Exalting Since it issues from a higher point above, as from the sun, moon and stars, natural light is inherently celestial. When beaming from a lighthouse or appearing at the end of a tunnel, light beckons us to safety. Lightʼs purity is conveyed by wavelength saturation; its brilliance by means of wavelength amplitude. Light supplies a prequisite illumination for creative effort. It denotes truth, as famously taught in Platoʼs Parable of the Cave, and manifests hope, as in the solace of a candle lit in the darkness.

Scripture, poetry and spiritual experience repeatedly associate the phenomenon of being bathed in light with exaltation. “Exaltation” means to be greatly esteemed as in to be held on high. Remedy pictures discussed, such as that of hypericum include a delusion to the effect that one is being raised up into the air. In keeping with the nervesʼ general resemblance to electrical circuitry, excessive exaltation demands that healing includes a “grounding” of energy.

When including photons on the move within the full electromagnetic spectrum, then light (non-visible though it may be) may also be said to issue from black holes, dark matter, and distant voids, a fact echoed by the Lurianic Kabbala which attributes the origin of the Sephirot, or Godhead to sparks of light arising within primordial darkness. The idea of light as denoting the origin of spiritual life is reflected in theElement Woodʼs governance of neuro-anatomy, responsible for the organizational structure of life.

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

Once in approximately every two thousand physical traumas affecting the hands, feet or legs (many of which occur pursuant to a medical procedure) the nervous system reacts with profound, somatic hysteria. How this manifests is with intolerable, violent, and wildly distracting pain in response, even to minimal levels of nerve stimulation. Until only recent years, and perhaps due to the fact that its victims are female approximately seventy percent of the time, this condition known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, or RSD has been viewed as a of strictly psychiatric origin. Skin biopsies revealing a twenty-five percent reduction in nerve fibers in affected tissue, and the otherwise, consistently normal psychological profiles of affected individuals have served to alter this false assessment.1

Although the explanation of RSDʼs appearance and an effective means of its treatment remain unknown, the alarming severity of an RSD presentation generally invites a speedy, albeit desperate, conventional care response. Few homeopaths thus, are ever likely to encounter an RSD patient whose vital force is not already pharmaceutically compromised. Were this otherwise, Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 96 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 97 at least one homeopathic remedy, a discussion of whose materia medica follows, might prove its clinical value.

Hypericum The substance from which this remedy, Hypericum perforatum is made is familiar to many of us in its popular, herbal antidepressant guise, St. Johnʼs wort. Insofar as it successfully buttresses an under-reactive nervous system, St. Johnʼs wort is an effective mood enhancer. If we turn the situation around to look at its homeopathic effects, St. Johnʼs wort, when highly diluted, can be seen to address symptoms related to an over- stimulated and inflamed nervous system.Hyp in fact, holds exactly the same relationship to neurological pain, such as one feels after having slammed oneʼs fingers in a car door, thatarnica holds in relation to pain due to muscular trauma.

Hypericin, the active agent found throughout the plant is considered responsible for the inhibition of the enzyme system known as monoamine oxidase (MAO). As a consequence of hypericinʼs presence in the body, numerous compounds found in foods and drugs fail to be oxidized. Also, interactions with tyramine containing substances such as alcohol, narcotics, yeasts and certain foods occur. Research discloses a polarity within hypericine in that the chemicalʼs actions are associated with depression, but also with providing an impetus to motivation. For example, mice exposed to an hypericum extract demonstrate an enhanced willingness to explore an alien environment.

An individual able to benefit from a constitutional dose ofhypericum may, under the right circumstances, prove susceptible to contract RSD. Such a person possesses an overly strong nervous system, which is to say that she reacts to normal levels of stimulation with preternatural speed and acuity. She is also prone to feel nervous, hurried, an emotion that can devolve into tearful melancholy, and go out of her way to avoid pain. Polarity within the remedy state also encompasses two distinctive mental features: an exalted sensation that she is raised up high in the air, and its opposite number, a melancholy belief that a part of her has been repudiated by God and is therefore, split off from her being.

Background information about St. Johnʼs wortʼs use in spiritual practice may shed light on these symptoms. The Greek, “hyper,” meaning “above” denotes exaltation, while the Greek for “eikon,” means picture. It is thus, speculated that “hyper-eikon” alludes to an ancient belief that when the plant is hung above a picture it summons down to earth an ability to ward off evil spirits. The fact that the plant blooms around the 24th of June, a date on which John the Baptist is supposed to have been beheaded is thought related to the derivation of hypericumʼs more familiar name, St. Johnʼs wort.

I have found that the core polarity within a remedy state lends itself to Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 98 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 99 being summarized by what I have termed a Radical Disjunct. This denotes a specific need in relation to an associated satisfaction. Pursuant to a crisis of one sort or another, these become estranged, causing formerly compatible partners to dance alone and in separate rooms. Afterwards, gain of the normally satisfying entity (which can be a substance or a situation) not only fails to bring the organism back into balance with respect to this need, but the individual is now worse off for the reunionʼs having taken place (example: food satisfies hunger, but starvation can render a normal portion of food toxic). Hypericumʼs Radical Disjunct reflects the behavior of electrons, that being a part of nature operate no differently within electrical devices than in human cells: An exalted state carries excessive voltage. In the absence of a grounding wire the hypericum state invites electrical short- out and consequent scorching of the wires. Insofar as it assists an individual to become grounded, appropriate dosage with hypericum can act to alleviate the spiritual disconnect, neurological chaos, and hellish pain of RSD.

Energy Cycles: The Homeopathic Template

Having applied sense dimensional analysis to a medical condition and a related remedy, we now see it modeling both pathology, and healthful function. As illustrated with several remedies, when applied to the reformulation of TCMʼs Five Phases System, Energy Cycle schemata provide a template upon which materia medica may be superimposed (or plotted). Doing so is found to add organizational rigor to materia medica and to sharpen remedy study.

Smooth Sailing: The Promotion Cycle

The Five Viscera

In ancient China, a Five Phases account of the physiological relationships holding between the five principal viscera was considered sufficient to explain how the body worked. Over the years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory grew increasingly sophisticated, and the intracisies of the relationships between the organs was better understood. The traditional model is no longer considered an adequate portrayal of Five Viscera interaction. Nevertheless, especially when permitted to incorporate broader sense dimension ideas, the Five Phases model remains valid. Readers not familiar with TCM will note that the five Organs mentioned do not denote the same organ known to Western medical science. They are instead icons embodying many of the properties identified with their pertaining sense dimension (Phase, or Element).

• Heart Energy (Synchrony) Promotes the Energy of the Spleen (Challenge) Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 98 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 99 The Heart being the source of synchrony, generates not only the impetus of the blood, meaning its ability to circulate, but ultimately, also that of the Qi (the power underlying all functions). Thus, its energy promotes that of the Spleen, the organ embedded within the succeeding Phase. The fact that it houses a desire for challenge with regard to converting nutrients into blood and fueling the bodyʼs development, accounts for the Spleenʼs domain over metabolism.

• Spleen Energy (Challenge) Promotes the Energy of the Lungs (Centeredness) In addition to providing nutrients for the growth and development of Qi and blood, the Spleen holds general responsibilty for transporting, distributing, and transforming nutrients and for promoting fluid metabolism. TheLungs oversee respiration and also control the Qi of the entire body, thereby assuring proper orientation to the external environment. In ensuring that its upward transportation of food essence nourishes the Lungs, the Spleen promotes its ability to perform respiration and disperse Qi.

• Lung Energy (Centeredness) Promotes the Energy of the Kidneys (Consolidation) The Lungs activate the flow of vital energy, blood and body fluid, filter inspired air and direct it downwards so that food essence in the upper body cavity is distributed throughout the body. This function also includes promotion of a principal function of the Kidneys: Fluid produced in consequence of metabolism is propelled downward into the Kidneys and the Urinary Bladder where further filtration, or consolidation into fluids that are, respectively turbid (subject to execretion), or clean (returned into circulation) takes place.

• Kidney Energy (Consolidation) Promotes the Energy of the Liver (Creativity) In physiological terms, the Kidneys maintain the integrity of water within the body. Kidney promotion of Liver consists of holding responsibility for the bones, within which, blood is created. Water forms the material basis for blood and the responsibility for storage and release belongs to the Liver. The Kidneys house our inheritable energy. This consists not only of Essence related functions pertaining to growth and development, but also, talents and illness susceptabilities that have consolidated within our lineage. Thus, in the sense that our inherent talents and predispositions play a determining role with regard to the expression of our personal creativity, Kidney energy Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 100 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 101 promotes that of the Liver (creativity).

• Liver Energy (Creativity) Promotes the Energy of the Heart (Synchrony) Although TCM does not consider that menstural blood and circulatory blood are one and the same, a promoting relationship to the effect that, when the Liverʼs management of blood movement is healthful, then the Heart has sufficiency of blood, nevertheless holds true. For example, irresolvable disappointment and resentment produce a state of stagnation disruptive to metabolism and menstrual function in women. A resulting mineral imbalance disturbs the Shen, the spirit housed within the Heart, as well as blood circulation. This accounts for such symptoms as dizziness, insomnia, depression, and fatigue.

Harmonizing the Cycle: The Mother-Son Rule

An adage within Five Phases (or Five Elements) acupuncture, states that when a particular Phase is deficient (a situation covering numerous instances of relatively low level pathology) the treatment principle indicated is to tonify the Mother. Although this Five Phases directive refers specifically to stimulation of acupuncture points able to energize a Phase located immediately prior to the one experiencing disruption, the following examples describe scenarios in which the effect can be accomplished by non-acupuncture means:

Resolving Problematic Challenge

• Our interview of an excessively anxious individual leads us to diagnose a blockage related to the Dimension of Taste in which a history of either, unreasonable parental demands (excessive challenge), or overprotectiveness (inadequate challenge) has been found to exist. Remediation is achieved by immersing this individual in synchrony, the positive pole of the immediately preceding energetic Phase. She is thus, bathed in meaningful love until an embracing sense of security is regained. Whether accomplished by means of counseling, access to spiritual resources, heightened support from family and friends, by homeopathy, or by acupuncture, tonification of the Mother energizes and prepares her to reengage the rigors of the anxiety versus challenge conundrum.

Resolving Problematic Centeredness

• An interview of a functionally depressed individual reveals that he is actually mired in grief, overcome by the loss of Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 100 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 101 a close personal relationship. Insofar as he is disoriented with regard to time, stuck in the past and unable perceive the dynamism inherent in a present moment, a blockage related to the Dimension of Smell is diagnosed. Remediation is effected by means of distracting and engaging him with an enjoyable project. Tonification of the Mother, meaning, immersion in challenge, the positive pole of the immediately preceding energetic Phase energizes and prepares him to reengage the rigors of the disorientation versus centeredness conundrum.

Resolving Problematic Consolidation

• Our interview with a man maintaining that his life has fallen apart reveals a state of despair. He feels his career has been pointless, and that he is not valued within his family for anything other than his ability to put food on the table. The manʼs age and state of entropy directs us to diagnose a blockage within the Dimension of Hearing. Remediation is effected by means of teaching this individual to meditate. Tonification of the Mother, meaning immersion in centeredness, the positive pole of the immediately preceding energetic Phase, reorients him to the original context out of which his choice of career and spouse emerged. The relaxed, centeredness of the meditative state energizes and prepares him to reengage the rigors of the entropy versus consolidation conundrum.

Resolving Problematic Creativity

• Our interview with a workaholic woman complaining of headache and fatigue brings to light an immense reservoir of anger, frustration and resentment that she harbors toward her coworkers as well as her husband. The interview also reveals that her anger originates in a longstanding pattern of unresolved conflict with her now aged parents, whom she has never managed to please. The womanʼs chaotic relationships, the fact that her workplace and family expectations express hidden emotional needs, and her inability to address her problems creatively directs us to diagnose a blockage within the Dimension of Sight.

By whatever means it can be achieved (and assuming the strategy is, in fact, workable) remediation is effected by tonification of the Mother, meaning, immersion in consolidation, the positive pole of the immediately preceding energetic Phase. Priorities are reordered such that energy withdrawn from career is redirected toward quality time spent with parents and husband. Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 102 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 103 Once the womanʼs status within her immediate family, and family of origin is thus, consolidated she is prepared to reengage with the rigors of the chaos versus creativity conundrum (when a reordering of her career goals is likely to occur).

Resolving Problematic Synchrony

• Although the “frozen” world of autistic individuals manifests an extreme state of isolation, numerous autists are also “savants,” possessors of genius level ability within for example, music, art, and mathematics. Diagnosible as blockage within the Dimension of Touch, autism is amenable to tonification of the Mother, meaning immersion within creativity, the positive pole of the immediately preceding energetic Phase. Insofar as it constitutes their chief means of achieving synchrony, meaning connectedness and bonds of appreciation with neighboring individuals, autistic individuals must be helped to find, explore and express their innate creativity.

Encountering Charybdis: The Counteracting (Insult) Cycle

We leave off our discussion of Promotion Cycle functionality to turn our attention instead, to its inverse: dysfunctional energetic movement modeled by the Counteracting (or Insult) Cycle.

According to Greek mythology, Charybdis is responsible for the unwelcome, retrograde dynamic of a maelstrom that menaces the sea-faring Ulysses. A daughter of Poseidon and Gaia, she angered Zeus who turned her into a monster compelled to suck water in and out three times an day. Charybdisʼ whirlpool is said to have been located to one side of the Strait of Messina, opposite the monster Scylla.

Anxiety ßßß Disorientation ßßß Entropy ßßßChaos ßßß IsolationßßßAnxiety (Graphic portrayal in cyclical fashion)

Rather than pertain to any one or more homeopathic remedies, the severe dynamic of the Counteracting Cycle is a liability that in theory, can be described within the context of any remedy state. Its depiction of pathology, at its most dire, descriptive of situations such as terminal organ failure, models a reversal in the directionality of normal, promoting function that represents the highest possible level of crisis within an energetic Phase, but whose fallout affects each energetic Phase as well.

• Chaos (Isolation Counteracts Creativity) A psychological expression of this situation describes an individual who following heartbreak or loss, degenerates into Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 102 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 103 isolation and hoarding of keepsakes and mementos. In its culmination there is seen the chaos of nothing at all being thrown out, and the individualʼs living in ragtag fashion among piles of papers and garbage to which she is oblivious. In physiological terms expression of this counteracting situation can include ailments involving muscular laxness or rigidity, paralysis, stroke, seizures, hysterical blindness, or stupor following a shock or loss disruptive to oneʼs synchrony.

• Entropy (Chaos Counteracts Consolidation) A psychological expression of this sitution describes an individual whose protracted anger or disappointment devolves into profound loss of purpose, even suicidal inclination. In physiological terms, what may be seen is degeneration within a longstanding, autoimmune, neurological and muscular disorder, such as scleroderma, lupus, or multiple sclerosis, any of which conditions typically manifest with (as we have seen, closely related) Liver Yin and/or Liver Blood deficiency. Crisis level inability to accept Yin, meaning fluid support, from theKidneys , insults and stifles normal Kidney function. The counteracting effect may induce a life threatening edema.

• Disorientation (Entropy Counteracts Centeredness) When treated as pathology arising within the Dimension of Smell Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia were associated with abominations in animal husbandry and their consequences for the quality of meat products. Now, a more general association comes into play: When we consider the high degree to which, especially Americans, measure self-worth in terms of work- related identity, it is hardly a coincidence that dementia appears in individuals just as it becomes clear that, in productivity terms, they have outlived their usefulness. In this situation we see Entropy, garbed as lost purpose, counteracting Centeredness, thereby establishing disorientation.

Although falling short of manifesting counteraction, in physiological terms, compromised Kidney resources, whether of Yang, Yin or Essence undermine and make one more susceptible to pathological Cold, Wind, and Damp. This is why, after having been stressed, we can deveop a respiratory ailment. A related and genuine expression of counteraction is the all too commonly an end of life scenario in which Kidney deficiency invites a fatal encounter with pneumonia.

• Anxiety (Disorientation Counteracts Challenge) In psychological terms, this situation describes a crisis level Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 104 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 105 impact of a grief, disappointment, or setback sufficiently severe as to induce not only disorientation, but a counteraction on the Dimension of Taste as a result of which, any combination of nervousness, eating disorder, malaise, and depression may arise. An end of life scenario that fits this dynamic is that of a longtime Alzheimers disease suffering individual, who simply stops eating and dies.

• Isolation (Anxiety Counteracts Synchrony) Dietary imbalance (related to the Dimension of Taste) negatively impacts the Shen, generally. Thus, we find: that excessive intake of salt predisposes one to fear; an excess of umami (sodium glutamate) flavor, sadness; an excess of sourness, inflexibility; an excess of bitterness, giddiness. Taken in excess, the sweetness flavor, which pertains specifically to theDimension of Taste predisposes a state of nervousness (anxiety). During a crisis related to excess or deficiency of sugar, seen in hypoglycemic or diabetic shock, for example, a counteracting effect on synchrony in the garb of non-reponsiveness arises. Eating disorders resulting in morbid obesity, predisposing an individual to stroke and cardiac arrest, also pertain to the counteraction of Anxiety upon Synchrony.

Psychologically, crisis level inability to resolve the Anxiety versus Challenge conundrum manifesting principally during adolescence can produce an undercurrent of shame and guilt sufficient to counteract and destabilize synchrony. This may culminate in hysteria, heart arrhythmia, palpitations, panic disorder or a delusional and isolating sense of personal inadequacy.

Troubled Waters: The Compensation Cycle

Intermediate between the functionality of the Promotion Cycle and the pathology of the Counteracting Cycle is a presentation of pathology in its most typical form, that of the Compensation Cycle, whose workings arise when a deficiency, rather than anexcess is found to set up housekeeping within an energetic Phase. How is the resulting state of imbalance resolved? Does application of a rule inverse to tonify the Mother, for example, sedate the Mother, or tonify the Son work?

Emergency-level inability to resolve a Sense Dimensionʼs core issue disrupts not only, the Promotion Cycle, but an energetic Phase located two positions ahead in the Promotion Cycle, as well. Here, a morbid excess appearing as a parody of the related sense Dimension is established. The effect, more pathological than that of a singular energetic Phase deficiency, activates a Compensation Cycle (what a traditional Five Phase theory refers Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 104 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 105 to as the Control Cycle) dynamic. As with the Counteracting Cycle, fallout from a compensation dynamic perturbs not just two, but all five energetic Phases.

Our model suggests that, although in this circumstance tonification of the Mother remains beneficial, neither sedation of the son or of the Mother is ever a good idea (and may, in fact, trigger a Counteracting Cycle). However one manages to do it, the situation requires that the morbid Phase undergo sedation, and that the crisis-level deficiency containingenergetic Phase undergo tonification. A near congruence obtaining betweenFive Phases compensatory dynamics and Radical Disjunct enables us to begin modeling homeopathic remedies within TCM schematics. Modeling of the remedy picture is further fleshed out by our appropriation of theFive Phases as a template. Thus, in the following illustrative examples, we “superimpose” symptoms and remedy features onto the remaining three Phases not directly involved in the compensation dynamic:

Solipsism (Isolation Compensated by Morbid Centeredness)

Helleborus: Garbed in a depression highlighting stupefication and indifference, this remedy, also known as Christmas Rose is a picture of morbid Centeredness, or solipsism. Helleborusʼapathy is like a veil draped over all of the senses that dulls general reactivity. Its indifference serves to compensate for an isolation deficiency crisis, maybe due to heartbreak, occuring within Synchrony. Fallout from this dynamic perturbs issue resolution within the other phases, as expressed by the following symptoms: Challenge/Anxiety: Awkward, or automatic motion of hand or leg; bad breath. Full feeling in stomach; or ravenous hunger. Consolidation/Entropy: Suppression of urine; edema; cold sweat. Creativity/Chaos: Anger from interruption; predisposition to seizures.

Stubborness (Anxiety Compensated by Morbid Consolidation)

Silica: We typically think of stubborn individuals as being thick skinned. Here, the extreme stubborness of this remedy state, a parody of “consolidation,” reflects compensation for a deficient and opposite tendency, “thin skinned” anxiety consisting of readiness to be thwarted by hypersensitivity to even the smallest of details. Fallout from this dynamic perturbs issue resolution within the other phases, as expressed by the following symptoms: Centeredness/Disorientation: General unhealthiness of the skin, constipation. Creativity/Chaos: Poor sleep, inability “to see the forest for the trees,” lack of grit. Synchrony/Isolation: Lack of confidence, aversion to being looked at, Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 106 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 107 excessive compliance.

Exhibitionism (Disorientation Compensated by Morbid Creativity)

Hyoscyamus: The physiological domain of Centeredness being respiration, we may summarize the Hyos situation as warped inspiration in both senses of the word. The biographical film, Shine provides us with a useful illustration. Pursuant to a harshly repressive childhood and breaking point pressures related to his musical training, a young and brilliant pianist, Daniel Barenboim, the filmʼs subject, falls into theHyos. compensation dynamic. His breakdown features overt sexual behavior, exhibitionism and rage, all of whose origins are shown to lie in a Centeredness deficiency, disorientation regarding whether his rightful place is in the world of mature adults, or of immature (but gifted) children. Fallout from this dynamic perturbs issue resolution within the other phases, as expressed by the following symptoms: Challenge/Anxiety: Hiccough, ravenous appetite, nausea, uncontrollable diarrhea. Consolidation/Entropy: Involuntary urination; urine retention; impotence; excessive sexual desire. Synchrony/Isolation: Inappropriate laughter, loquacity, hilarity, desire for company, jealousy, suspiciousness.

Co-Dependency/Dysrhythmia (Entropy Compensated by Morbid Synchrony) Two examples of morbid Synchrony are offered:

Arsenicum: The morbid synchrony of this remedy state is an abnormally high concern for the welfare of friends or family, an anxiety causing both, chilling and burning heat within the body. This co-dependency compensates for a deficiency within theConsolidation Phase producing entropy, garbed as a delusional sense of imminent death, either oneʼs own, or that of a family member. Fallout from this dynamic perturbs issue resolution within the other phases, as expressed by the following symptoms: Centeredness/Disorientation: Shortness of breath; suffocative breathing; itching, dry, rough and scaly skin; rectal inflammation; loss of the sense of smell. Challenge/Anxiety: Extreme perfectionism; inability to tolerate an error; loss of appetite, anorexia, nausea. Creativity/Chaos: Hypercritical behavior; trembling, twitching, spasms and weakness of the extremities.

Tarentula Hispanica: The morbid synchrony of this spider remedy comes in the form of dysrhythmia, abnormal rhythmic behavior, a feature expressed in aversion to being touched, palpitations, hyperactivity, impulsiveness, restlessness, a need to hurry other people, rapid, awkward Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 106 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 107 and ludicrous arm motions, excessive affinity for percussive music, dance, horseback riding, or sexual activity. Relationships also lack normal “rhythm,” featuring alternation of dependency and possessiveness; teasing, and intrusive behaviors. Tarentulaʼs dysrhythmia compensates for a deficiency within theConsolidation Phase, an entropic state evident from tendency toward despair, melancholy, wildness, and incontinence; but also deduceable from “fight or flight” causations associated with the remedy state. These include: history of toxic infection, punishment, accidental fall, scolding, bad news, or unrequited love. Fallout from this dynamic perturbs issue resolution within the other phases, as expressed by the following symptoms: Centeredness/Disorientation: Attacks of suffocative breathing, desire for fresh air, constipation; purplish skin, carbuncles, abscesses, and eczema.. Challenge/Anxiety: Craving for highly seasoned and salty food, or for raw food and sand; dry mouth, bitter eructation, offensive stools. Weakness of the legs. Ferociously protective parenting. Creativity/Chaos: Destructiveness, suspicion, rage. Twitching and jerking of the arms and legs.

Recklessness (Chaos Compensated by Morbid Challenge)

Medorrhinum: An individual needing this remedy is drawn to “sex, drugs, and rock ʻn roll.” Medorrhinumʼs morbid Challenge takes the shape of a desire to exceed limits, irrespective of danger. Passionate, driven, and obsessive about her interests, the person needing this remedy is also indifferent to anything outside her central focus. She exhibits an “all or nothing,” “burn the candle at both ends” tendency, that not surpisingly, threatens to bankrupt her capacity for Challenge. Medʼs recklessness compensates for a deficiency within theCreativity Phase, the presence of chaos evident from a symptom picture that includes: erratic and disturbed creativity, desire to play at night, and loss of the thread of a conversation. Fallout from this dynamic perturbs issue resolution within the other phases, examples of which include the following symptoms: Centeredness/Disorientation: Asthma, nasal discharge, confusion, eczema. Consolidation/Entropy: Medorrhinum, a nosode (made from the discharge of a disease, here, gonorrhea) addresses the STDʼs sycotic miasma features. These pertain to a sexual energy overflowing into normally, nonsexual areas, a resultant sense of being lost in a state echoing perpetual orgasm. Thus, consolidation of the Jing is imperilled; Kidney Yang is in excess. Synchrony/Isolation: Perception of time passing too slowly. Need to hurry. Shunning of responsibility. A pervasive sense of unreality.

Ship in a Bottle: A Remedy State From Up Close

Due to its implications for acupuncture point selection, one of the major Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 108 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 109 criticisms historically directed at the conventional Five Phases system is the subjectivity of its diagnoses. While as currently presented, remedy modeling is considerably more rigorous, it too, is less than an exact science. Nevertheless, provided oneʼs identification of the central issue is sharp, modeling can vary according to the weight one assigns to particular symptoms. It can happen that the process of symptom weighting directs one away from an original remedy choice. Re-analysis and remodelling of the symptom picture according to a slightly variant theme then generates a list of related, alternate remedy possibilities.

Thuja: “No Access to Self-Interest”

Non-Thuja individuals enjoy instant access to gut-level intuition and to their self-interest. Decision-making filters through “gut-check” assessments. Absent a capacity to perform surreptitious background checks, a wildly disproportionate importance is attached to the considerations surrounding any decision a Thuja individual is compelled to make. What for anyone else might be a low stakes game of “letʼs choose,” instead warps into a life or death challenge demanding performance of mental gymnastics on a high wire.

Due to his chameleon-like nature the Thuja individual can be difficult to identify. Blind to the unintentional masquerade, neophyte homeopaths especially, are likely to be misled by one or another of the Thuja individualʼs false personae. The remedy, made from the plant Arbor Vitae, or Tree of Life can thus be said to address inauthenticity of existence.

An individual stuck in Thuja, consequently, lacks a self to call his own. Nor, since it lies bueried beneath a false persona, is it possible for him to access his genuine self-interest. Inabiliy to identify his authentic needs places him at risk, not only for having his remedy missed, but of making poor, if not disastrous choices, generally.

What follows are examples of dysfunctional Thuja reasoning seen in my own practice (in all instances of which, beneficial response to the remedy occurred): • Several instances of women voluntarily marrying a man who had sexually abused them (“Well, marriage is a good thing, and he must have liked me a little…”); • A car salesmanʼs casually stated determination to undergo surgery in order to become a lesbian. He did not, in other words, believe himself to be a woman marooned in a manʼs body (“Why are you asking me about any of this? Iʼve even convinced my therapist itʼs okay…”) and even lacked insurance coverage to defray cost of the expensive, nonreversible, reproductive surgery and extended hormone treatments; • A young man fervently convinced that, because “evolutionary laws Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 108 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 109 override free will,” he is therefore, a robot. • A number of men and women slavishly addicted to an extreme form of diet or exercise regime; or else, drawn to unwaranted cosmetic surgery.

I recall a touch of this mindset from my childhood when my family lived in a walkup apartment building: Itʼs a fact that I am able to ride a tricycle, I remember thinking, and I can also go down the stairs. So there is no reason why I should not be able to ride my tricycle down the stairs. I then went ahead and attempted to apply this flawed arithmetic with painful results.

Inauthenticity (Isolation Compensated by Morbid Centeredness)

Let us begin modelling Thuja. Insofar as a full-blown presentation of the remedy state reveals widespread disharmonies, a convincing argument can be made for the modeling of a dynamic originating in crisis erupting within any Phase. As it happens, Thujaʼs most striking physical symptoms pertain to the skin, which feature a wide range of pathology, in particular, the appearance of odd, often mushroom shaped warts. Disproportionate weight is therefore ascribed to the Centeredness Phase governing the skin.

In consequence of this, we model Thuja by means of a Compensation Cycle dynamic: Morbid Centeredness, namely, slavish conformism, artifical niceness and falsity of self, arises as compensation for crisis-level deficiency withinSynchrony , a Phase located two positions ahead in the Promotion Cycle. Here, an isolating sense of unloveability, sense of inner ugliness to the point of dysmorphia (hatred of oneʼs body), and generally poor self-esteem, as well as a delusion of the soulʼs having separated from the body, are found to take root.

Acceptance Confirms My Unacceptability(Radical Disjunct)

Thujaʼs compensatory dynamic lends credence to a folk adage to the effect that guilt and shame express themselves through the skin. A chameleonʼs remarkable ability to fit into numerous, different settings (by literally, changing the color of its skin) appears, at first glance, incompatible with poor self esteem. The apparent paradox directs us to the remedyʼs Radical Disjunct, akin to Groucho Marxʼs joke that he would never join a club that would accept him as a member: Social acceptance confirms my unacceptability. But where, one might ask, does so low an opinion of oneʼs self originate?

Gates to Thuja

Experience shows that Thujaʼs self-contempt can result from a childhood frought with belittling, in consequence of which, memory of parental voices reconstitutes in the form of a nagging and hypercritical superego. Weak Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 110 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 111 self-esteem can also arise in the absence of the critical parent. Parental divorce is a common fracture line in the developing psyche. Why this is so becomes clear when we venture to peer into the heart of a child, from whose point of view, the only reason that his parents come together is to produce him. At a subconscious level of pre-verbal reasoning, divorce thus, means only one thing: the childʼs very existence is a mistake, hence, inauthentic. This conclusion no amount of reasoning, counseling, or assurance that he is loved, in the short run at least, is likely to overturn.

Despite its apparent dysfunctionality, the Thuja state is not without purpose. Its inauthenticity functions as an insulating layer of protection that shields the soul from terrible, underlying pain. This explains why, six weeks or so after a patient has been given a constitutional dose of the remedy, the patient may report the amelioration of physical symptoms, a vanishing of warts, a feeling of being more genuine, but also, significant depression. What has happened in this case is that a peeling away of the Thuja layer opens the door to opportunity: direct contact with underlying trauma, an emotional memory of counting for nothing that the Vital Force now determines the patient is strong enough to confront. Rather than administration of an antidepressant which can reverse progress made, what is now indicated is one of Thujaʼs key complementary remedies. A dose of Natrum Sulphuricum, Sulphate of Sodium should be given to promote resolution of exactly this depression-underlying delusion. ��

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Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 110 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 111 Mapping the Template

Knowing as we do that fallout from the Compensation dynamic perturbs issue resolution within the other phases let us now superimpose the remedyʼs other key symptoms and features onto the homeopathic template:

Challenge/Anxiety: Restless anguish, as if one seeks to jump out of oneʼs own skin. Numbness of the feet, as if like the Arbor Vitae tree itself, one is rooted to the ground. Nausea, disordered stools, stomach pain, a feeling that something is moving in the abdomen.

Consolidation/Entropy: Like the remedy discussed above, Medorrhinum, and with which it enjoys a complementary relationship, Thuja features a general frenzy specific to thesycotic miasm. Disordered reproductive function related to disharmony within the Kidneys includes: tendendy toward penile pain, undescended testicles; inflammation of the testicles, prepuce and glans; impotence; any and all features of gonorrhea.

Creativity/Chaos: Stiffness of the legs. Self contempt; fixed ideas, fanaticism, a delusion of being under superhuman control; inability to finish oneʼs sentences.

A Sociological Perspective

Given that emotional honesty can hamper job performance requiring salesmanship or hard negotiation, for example, a Thuja remedy state per se, hardly precludes workplace success. There exists at least one career where its manifestation is almost a prerequisite: standup comedy. The Thuja stateʼs characteristic frenzy, anguish, tortured need to please, and low awareness of self-interest (allowing revelation of otherwise, embarrassing experiences) fuels the career, of probably, a majority of standup comedians. Peter Sellers, a renowned comic actor brilliantly able to impersonate a wide range of personalities (he played several parts in Stanley Kubrikʼs film, Dr. Strangelove, for example) and who, according to biographies, lacked a discernable personality of his own, in all likelihood, was a deep Thuja.

Comedic rebellion does not occur outside of context. In possessing unusally sensitive barometers concerning mores, likely Thuja comics such as Margarate Cho or the late Rodney Dangerfield tell us as much about about ourselves and society at large, as they reveal about themselves. The laughter they provoke provides cathartic release from the constraints of secrecy underlying unwritten rules of behavior.

America in the 1950s It can occur that a period of time strongly exhibits all the features of a Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 112 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 113 remedy state. A plausible example is that of the 1950s in America, a thoroughly sycotic era. This was the era of the enormous post-war baby boomand rapid economic growth, as well as the proliferation of large automobiles. Yet it is also an age of conformism, secrecy, repression and fear of the mushroom shaped atomic cloud dominating the psyche. It is during this era, that we may dub, “The Decade of Thuja,” that delusional concepts such as nuclear deterence and fallout shelters dominate military and civilian thinking. The chief proponent is a dispassionate intellectual with the highest IQ on record, the morbidly obese (a feature relevant, as we have seen to Thuja) Herman Kahn whose mental gymnastics, unconnected to the legitimate self interest of any living human being, including Kahn himself bring him to prominence.

An employee of the Rand Corportation, Mr. Kahn, was the author of On Thermonuclear War (and on whom, Peter Sellerʼs movie impersonation of the mad scientist, Dr. Strangelove is based). Despite acknowledging, “a wide belief to the contrary,”cites “objective studies” to argue that the deaths of even hundreds of millions of people in a nuclear war, “would not preclude normal and happy lives for the majority of survivors and their descendents.”2 It may well be that a catharsis became necessary to scour away the “inner madness” of the 1950s. This takes place during the the following decade, when an ethos of personal freedom of expression, along with the advocacy of “sex, drugs and rock ʻn roll” as the means, explodes onto the landscape. This reminds us of the Medorrhinum remedy state (complementary to Thuja within the Sycotic miasm)

Post World War II France Philosophers prefer to believe that the intellectual systems they produce originate in “objective” consideration of the facts. Yet, as with eras, philosophical systems, too, can exhibit assumptions expressive of, and rooted in a remedy state. What must it have been like during the Second World War for the sensuous, argument loving, laissez-faire-philosophy- employing French, to have been overridden and occupied by their polar opposites, the rigidly categorical and intolerant Germans? Surely, this was a terrible, identity-negating trauma. From our current vantage point, the despair laden quest for authenticity within the existentialist philosophy espoused by Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone De Beavoir in post-war France, represents primarily, a Thuja mind-set having befallen the French.

If French Existentialism is a fissure within Centeredness, one of the philsophyʼs prime descendents, Deconstructivist critical theory represents a widening of this intellectual fault line to the dimensions of a canyon. As taught by Paul De Man and Jacques Derrida in the 1960s, with respect to the analysis of a literary text, Deconstructionism appears to institutionalize a rudderless means of analysis allowing the relevance of any given context (as opposed to another) to be perpetually unravelled. Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 112 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 113 Summary

A credible integrative medicine agenda need not seek to derive its validity strictly from on external measures such as randomized control studies. Phenomenological or “internal” means of investigation can provide sufficient evidence for the unity of all medicine. One such method, Sense Dimensional Analysis appears to have a wide application. In addition to enabling us model health and pathology within Traditional Chinese Medicine, it serves to disclose the essential meaning hidden within a homeopathic remedy, a medical condition such as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, or personality disorder such as autism. By the same token it can illuminate a psychological conundrum, a sociological state of affairs, and other phenomena.

Jerry M. Kantor, Lic. Ac., MMHS is now completing a book on the subject of Homeopathy and Infertility together with Karen Allen. His soon to be published work concerning chronic illness, entitled Turning the Great Ship, extends a 1996 JAIH article, “Cyclical Remedy Complexes and Inner Tradition in Homeopathy.” He holds an academic appointment at Harvard Medical School, where he has been a Teaching Associate in Anaesthesiology since 1999. His clinical interests include pediatrics, mental illness, oncology, and infertility. Mr. Kantor is a 1981 graduate of the Nanjing College of Traditional Medicineʼs Advanced Acupuncture Program for Foreign Students. A practitioner of Qi Gong, Jerry Kantor also holds a fourth degree black belt, in the martial art, aikido and lives Boston. MA.

(Footnotes) 1 Foregoing background info in Jeremy Groopman, “When Pain Remains,” New Yorker, 10/10/05, pp. 36-41.

2 “The Worlds of Herman Kahn,” Louis Menand, The New Yorker, 6/27/05, pg. 94.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 114   :   Conducted by Nadia Bakir ND FCAH DHANP CCH August 1998 Collated and written by Saeid Mushtagh ND, Laura Buckle ND and John Margaritis ND

Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Subphylum: Vertebrata Class: Mammalia Order: Artiodactyla Family: Camelidae Genus: Camelus Species: Camelus dromedaries

Camelus is Latin for camel Dromeus is Greek for runner Camelus dromedaries = running camel

NATURAL HISTORY: Dromedary is known as the one humped camel. They actually have two humps but only the rear one is well developed. The hump acts as food storage for fat, which is bound together by fibrous tissue. The hump becomes smaller and bends to one side during periods of starvation. True wild dromedaries have been extinct since over two thousand years. They are semi-domesticated, freely ranging but under the control of a herdsman (or so we like to think). On our last trip to Egypt we had the pleasure of riding camels in the Sahara desert and the Sinai. It became obvious to us that camels have little respect for their herdsman/owner. They are very temperamental and constantly defy their ownerʼs commands. We observed repeatedly how camels show little to no response to the yelling, rebuking and disciplining attempts of their Bedouin owner. At times we felt we were riding at our own risk. The average life span for camels is forty years. Unfortunately the age of the camel used to produce milk for this remedy was not known. Camels prefer the desert environment and are sensitive to cold and humidity. They do not adjust to new climates.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 115 CAMELʼS MILK PREPARATION The milk was collected from a semi-domesticated female camel at a camelʼs market in Cairo. It was immediately frozen for preservation. It was then transported to Canada in a frozen babyʼs milk bottle. Then to Hahnemannʼs Labs Pharmacy, San Rafael, CA where Michael Quinn defrosted the milk and potentized it. Potencies used 12C and 30C.

METHOD OF PROVING The proving protocol used is that outlined in The Dynamics and Methodology of Homeopathic Provings, by Jeremy Sherr. The potencies used ranged from 12C and 30C.

The provers and supervisors were provided with diaries and journals for data collection. Each prover was assigned to a supervisor. All the provers recorded their baseline symptoms two weeks prior to the proving. Nine provers completed the proving. They consisted of seven females and two males ranging from age twenty-six to forty. Each prover received a maximum of nine doses over three days, and they were instructed to stop sooner if any symptoms developed. Contact with supervisors was on a daily basis for the first week and then several times a week for the following three weeks. One prover needed to be monitored further for a few months following the experiment.

Proving Overview

ANOREXIA Lots of problems with body image/distortion. Versus: not shy about body. Confident, carries herself strongly. Touchy-feely person - no physical barrier. Many provers felt like teenagers. Irritability/relaxed feeling. One prover had a temper tantrum on the kitchen floor kicking their feet. Serious Peevish Absent minded/forgetfulness Missing appointments-lateness without caring. DEFYING AND DISRESPECT FOR AUTHORITY. ARGUMENTATIVE One prover stood up to a judge at a court defending a speeding ticket. Freeze frame/zoning out Busy Hard to get together PROBLEM FOCUSING/CONCENTRATION Idea of magic Milky taste in the mouth; yogurt-like sensation. Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 116 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 117 Increased energy as if on steroids/versus very tired. Breast pain; imagines breast cancer with axillary pain. HOT FEET/HEAT IN GENERAL Loose bowels/constipation Right temple headache Dry scalp and dandruff Dreams: - many dreams - HIGHSCHOOL - friends, boyfriends from past - Boy friend cheating on her - strange men/satanic men - body image - guns/hunting - teeth falling - ex-girlfriend said hair is a mess - revenge on ex-boyfriend and feeling good about it - Egypt - camels - taking care of a baby

MIND BODY IMAGE (DISTORTION/lots of problems) VS. not shy about Body, confident, strong

(DAY 2, P6) dream: watching an outdoor play. The play was of a football game, which I thought was rather stupid because the actors werenʼt very good football players, so it ended up being a bad game and a bad play; the scene looked like St.George circle at U of T, a high school girlfriend appeared in it, she called me away from the play/game to tell me that my hair looked bad and I should do something about it. A current classmate was in the dream also. I think we smoked at his place after leaving the game early, he agreed that my hair was a mess; I didnʼt seem to care that my hair was a mess. (Day11, p4) aversion to food “ it feels like I havenʼt eaten in too long”, MIND: anorexia: “the one thing I never wanted to have”, feels as if she wasnʼt so rational, she would not eat at all, thinks of being thin, “I spend so much of my energy fighting that energy” (of wanting thinness) (DAY1, P4) AVERSIONS: fat lady on bus (Day11, p4) “I spend so much of my energy fighting that energy” (of wanting thinness) (Day12, p4) thoughts of high school: “not my high school” but: shopping, whispering with girlfriends, worrying about how one looks all the time, partying, not giving a shit, selfish: no concept of other people (Day12, p4) wants to go shopping (2): wants nice clothing, wants to look

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 116 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 117 good (Day12, p4) wants to protect supervisor from her “thin fantasy” b/c supervisor is susceptible (Day9, p4) wants to be sexy for next weekend (gay pride parade, etc) “sexy” is back on priority list wants to wear a short skirt with belly exposed, small shirt going shopping for self on Wednesday (rare!!) (Day8-p2) Tired but feeling strong emotionally, mentally and spiritually. (DAY4, P5) more confident and more energetic; “as if I had an adrenaline rush “ (DAY2, P4) dream that she wore dress that she has on today because she was going on television. is not having anxious / rushed feeling in sleep

ANOREXIA V.S OVEREATING, CRAVINGS, (DAY3, P1) she felt good on waking, her overall energy is slightly better, she has taken time to eat a little more than previous days. (DAY7, P6) Stomach not feeling well this eve, but ate rich and excessive today (DAY3, P8) ate a lot more this day (DAY3, P8) energy is < after eating (lunch) especially in evening after dinner (DAY1, P4) more hungry (possibly) (DAY1, P4) EATING: eructations more often than before thinks may be lying to self about not burping (!) (DAY3, P4) eating lots of fruit: oranges and apples (DAY3, P4) eating so to pacing self for hypoglycemia (DAY6, P4) APPETITE: tending towards spicy foods, HAS NOT EATEN CHOCOLATE SINCE TUESDAY (4) (DAY6, P4) cravings for sugar have greatly decreased (3) has only had raspberry sherbet since proving began (DAY7, P4) APPETITE: forgetting about food (1) getting hungry later: not eating as much on schedule (DAY6, P4) hypoglycemia: less sugar = less hypoglycemia (DAY6, P4) was just eating dinner at 7:52 pm. very unusual!! Not planning day around food not taking as much pleasure in food (2): not as exciting as usual feels neutral about food / eating hopes this does not last because she likes the pleasure of food! (DAY7, P4) went over to her friends, craving chocolate, she brought in a big bin of cookies and only ate one!!! Normally she would binge in a situation like this she has wanted to stop eating chocolate, so she feels good about this (Day8, p4) APPETITE: feels “hollow in tummy” after eating, doesnʼt want to eat more, but has “all gone feeling” food is “not exciting” “i have lost my food pleasure”:0/10 craving for chocolate: did not eat any today, and it was available (Day9, p4) HUNGER: ate at 12, hungry at 5:30. not ravenous (Day810 p4) CRAVINGS: sour dairy: ate tons of sour cream at lunch, and Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 118 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 119 feta (DAY6, P4) feels she is getting full easier now cheese (1) (Day10, p4) APPETITE: “food has gone out of my consciousness” hollow feeling after eating still strong (Day10, p4) did not want to eat: lost appetite drank alcohol instead: got drunk on 1 1⁄2 drinks (Day12, p4) eating a lot again: strong, most hungry in am (Day10, p4): “i cant take care of myself” wanted to smoke marijuana, but felt she couldnʼt handle being high it feels like “yesterday i was a teenager” a theme of irresponsibility: did not want to eat “oh, i will get thin” felt like a teenage girl because she wanted to not eat to be thin drinking: normally does not drink, also drank beer at her potluck shopping at Eatonʼs: has not been there since high school the exchange with her mother felt high-school- like “not necessarily me in high school, but a girl” obsessed with clothing: meeting Danielle, and has to go shopping aversion to food (2): forced herself to at toast in the morning liked her lunch at work b/c she made it. “Didnʼt occur to me to eat morning: before and after breakfast: nausea “morning sickness” (DAY2, P4)CRAVING: yogurt / milk yesterday (unusual) (DAY6, P4) feels she is getting full easier now

Touchy person-no physical barrier (DAY4, P5) patience - usually very patient but lately been getting impatient more easily; “could be flipping away “ (DAY6, P4) has been easily insulted in past few days (2) ie) was insulted when others did not eat the lunch she brought for everyone, and when people did not answer her questions not angry, more HURT feelings (DAY6, P4) has been easily insulted in past few days (2) ie) was insulted when others did not eat the lunch she brought for everyone, and when people did not answer her questions not angry, more HURT feelings

Many Provers felt like TEENAGER (Day12, p4) thoughts of high school: “not my high school self, I was very political”: shopping, whispering with girlfriends, worrying about how one looks all the time, partying, not giving a shit, selfish: no concept of otherʼs people (Day10, p4): “I cant take care of myself” wanted to smoke marijuana, but felt she couldnʼt handle being high it feels like “yesterday I was a teenager” a theme of irresponsibility: did not want to eat “oh, I will get thin” felt like a teenage girl because she wanted to not eat to be thin drinking: normally does not drink Cured symptoms: In mid august the prover had to go to the hospital with a severe rectal pain that was an aggravation of the earlier menstrual symptoms. She had commented, “i am 17 today!!” Something in the remedy certainly let her return to old states that had not been fully explored, Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 118 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 119 as in the irresponsible teenager, and the non-attentive girlfriend. She is beginning a relationship with a long time male friend of hers, whom I also know from my childhood as a wonderful and very special man... so, she will be adventuring into new territory there as well. The remedy in her own word has ʻdecreased her anxietyʼ. She is living by herself, last I heard, staying at someoneʼs house for a few months while they travel. She chose not to live with another female friend after all... I really respected the power of the remedy to support her making choices that she had been holding but not acting upon: breaking up with her girlfriend being one of the stronger ones, as well as decreasing the amount of chocolate and sugar she consumed, and spending more time alone. I think the face of anorexia in the remedy was also a powerful one, as it brought out one of her fears of being anorexic and excessively body conscious, which seemed as though it had not been voiced before.

Anxiety (DAY7, P4) ANXIETY / WORRY: small stress attacks when realized what she has forgotten is not keeping her awake (DAY2, P4) spending lots of energy trying to figure out what remedy is feels remedy is curative to her anxiety” “so relaxed” (3) is organizing major party for friends wedding: not stressed about it (DAY3, P4) “This is my ideal homeopathic”, “less on my mind…. calmed internal dialogue” ANXIETY: “so reduced”, 4/10 biggest change without situational change PATIENCE: INCREASED (3) (Day8, p4) gripped with fear of driving (highly unusual) on drive home low intensity fear, anxious drive home, FEAR OF PEOPLE BRAKING IN FRONT OF HER, not a fear of speed (Day14, p4) SENSITIVITY: to meanness (3): easily cries, reprimand # 1: feels a sense of panic just saying it

IRRITABILITY/relaxed feeling/ Peevish/ANGRY One prover had a temper tantrum on the kitchen floor kicking their feet (Day6-p2) PM: Ringing in left ear, a higher pitch sound. I am angry at this time. (DAY4, P5) patience - usually very patient but lately been getting impatient more easily; “could be flipping away “ (DAY6, P5) since the initial dose he has been on the defensive from a family member residing in the same household which he previously had no negative feeling towards any un-provoking interactions with this family member caused him extreme anger (DAY4, P5) patience - usually very patient but lately been getting impatient more easily; “could be flipping away “ (DAY 2, P6) mood has been generally short and angry today, partly because a slow day at work, partly because of daughters health, even though she is Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 120 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 121 becoming better. (DAY5, P6) my disposition has been quite positive lately, and I feel less moody than I did one week ago (DAY12-P2) feeling, crying- sad- a release of stress since it is the first time I have cried since leaving the stress of school. (DAY16-P2) much more calmer (DAY7, P4) PATIENCE: “not tons better” feelings of impatience for different reasons before: felt impatient because wanted everything done now: feeling impatient because wants to be on her own (2), wants to “chill by herself” (DAY3, P4) less easy to anger: not as “pissed off” (1) (DAY3, P4) “this is my ideal homeopathic”, PATIENCE: INCREASED (3) (DAY7, P4) ANGER: has not come up

DEFYING AND DISRESPECT FOR AUTHORITY, ARGUMENTATIVE One prover stood up to a judge at a court defending speeding ticket (DAY3,P5)7:30pm- experiencing a sense of impatience with everything not with any specific thing itʼs just a burning feeling that Iʼm getting (DAY3,P5) I havenʼt got into any disagreements or arguments with anyone since Iʼve started taking the remedy (DAY5,P5) I notice a general disregard for authority i.e.: disrespect in traffic court (DAY5,P5) S.R.P.- Ever since Iʼve been taking the remedy I havenʼt had one argument with my brother. I mean we havenʼt disagreed on ANYTHING. But, I have been on the defensive mode with my mom, even though she is doing nothing to get me mad. This is very odd, since I never fight (argue) with my mom, and usually have one argument with my brother. WEIRD!!! (DAY5,P5) S.R.P.- once I start a project I get annoyed if someone tells me to do something else. (DAY5,P5) patience level is low acceptance of authority figures is low to moderate (Day10, p4) DREAMS: three other provers all smoked marijuana and they said it was totally fine (DAY7, P4) writing in her diary about feeling UNRELIABLE unreliability is the worst thing in her family it feels good to her that she has been more unreliable usually her brother is the unreliable one “it would feel good to trade places with him” (DAY7, P4) writing in her diary about feeling UNRELIABLE unreliability is the worst thing in her family it feels good to her that she has been more unreliable usually her brother is the unreliable one “it would feel good to trade places with him” (DAY3, P4) less easy to anger: not as “pissed off” (1) Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 120 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 121 Serious (DAY8, P6) I may be more serious than usual, and this may partly due to our daughterʼs whooping cough – it has kept us up at night & has caused us both some worry & concern, it has also made me rethink where I stand on the vaccination issue & Iʼm not sure what the outcome of that is yet (DAY7, P4) EMOTIONS: feels “flatter” than usual (1) not giving out as much as normally does

PROBLEM FOCUSING/CONCENTRATION, Freeze frame/zoning out ABSENT MINDED/forgetfulness (DAY 2, P6) continued concern over daughterʼs cough is generating feelings of peevishness & anxiety; losing focus/concentration for brief periods during the day, (DAY7, P6) felt myself to be especially contemplative today with some “zoning out” for short periods (Day 4, P1) Dreamt again last night but couldnʼt remember what about. (DAY3, P5) had a dream something to do with school but cannot remember details, the more I try to remember the quicker and went away (DAY3, P8) – difficult time concentrating/studying Ate lots, slept lots (slept 2-4 pm – had a dream) (DAY6, P5) still difficulty remembering dreams (DAY10, P6) today I noticed that I feel I am loosing my train of thought – like going into a room and forgetting why Iʼve gone there – more frequently than usual (DAY2, P8) 3 things in the dream that he could differentiate between (he forgot what they were!!) (DAY3, P4) FORGOT TO TAKE LAST DOSE LAST NIGHT. TOOK IT TODAY (Day10, p4) aversion to exercise remains: not as strong as before, forced self to do yoga, still feeling lazier: working less hours at work. (Day12, p4) doing ND research on the Internet, “surfing” rather then doing her work she comments that she is doing work for herself (DAY7, P4) I had to cut the conversation off here because i needed to get off the phone. She was supposed to call back so we could check in again, but she never did.... (DAY3, P4) not planning future events: stopped (3) (DAY7, P4) MIND: forgetful (so unusual) did not remember to call last night, left all of the lights on in her parents house (unusual), forgot to put money in the meter on queen street, absent minded

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 122 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 123 Hard to get together, want to be alone Missing appointments-lateness without caring POSTPONING Responsibility, LAZY, (DAY3,P5)better mood than normal, still no motivation to do anything planned, I know that I should start studying for the NPLEX but motivation is not there (Day3, P5) itʼs as if I donʼt seem to be concerned by what others will think, commitments donʼt matter to me right now (DAY5,P5)Procrastination mode is slowly dissipating; I am actually getting determined to do things. i.e.: screen door is busted and I am determined to fix it. (DAY4, P5) constantly putting off plans “I know I have to do something but I just donʼt do it” (DAY4, P5) has a “ donʼt care attitude “but I donʼt feel itʼs a procrastination “itʼs more of a commitment think “, he keeps telling himself to do it but he doesnʼt do it (Day4, P8) procrastinated from studying (> with communication) (DAY5, P5) seems to have less “procrastination” today, getting more things don throughout the day than yesterday, still not yet willing to take too much on (DAY9, P5) desire to begin studying which had previously not been present (Day9, p4) cannot fathom studying for exams not thinking about future, so not as stressed (Day8, p4) spending a lot of time in her parentʼs basement, this is her second time going there: wants to be there alone. (DAY7, P4) PATIENCE: “not tons better” feelings of impatience for different reasons before: felt impatient because wanted everything done now: feeling impatient because wants to be on her own (2) wants to “chill by herself” (Day8, p4) “crazy shit has happened”: sleeping over at friendʼs house (alone), forgot to take out contact lenses last night before going to sleep (3) first time that she has forgotten since she was 16 year old and drunk, has been getting a lot done: but is forgetting routine basic things (DAY7, P4) AVERSIONS: to exercise (1) (DAY7, P4) feeling physically lazy skipped yoga class and teaching yoga class at work (DAY7, P4) taking bus instead of walking (DAY7, P4) feeling indecisive: i.e.) taking a long time to buy presents in stores (DAY7, P4) lay in bed thinking about needed privacy (1) wants to be alone: “hiding in parents basement” (DAY7, P4) feels abnormal to prefer solitude to company (DAY5, P4) SUPPOSED TO MEET the prover AT ROSEDALE SUBWAY STATION AT 9 AM SHE CALLED AT 8 AM TO SAY SHE WAS LEAVING AND COULD WE MEET EARLIER. I ARRIVED TO THE STATION AT 8:45 AND BY 9: 10 JEN HAD NOT YET ARRIVED. I Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 122 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 123 CHECKED MY MESSAGES, AND AT AROUND 9:10 SHE CALLED AND LEFT ME A MESSAGE SAYING SHE WAS AT SHERBOURNE STATION: THOUGHT IT WAS ROSEDALE STATION. SHE SAID SHE WOULD WAIT UNTIL 9:45. I WENT Straight TO THE OTHER STATION, BUT SHE WAS NOT THERE ANYMORE. SHE CALLED ME AT 10:30 AT WORK. I TRIED TO CALL AT LUNCH, NO ANSWER. NEVER DID TALK TO HER THAT DAY…

Busy (DAY3, P8) – self reflecting thoughts – Why am I so quiet?, felt slightly down (depressed), this was one day that he had no plans with any friends etc.

Idea of magic (DAY2, P4) moon: magic realm” necklace, wearing dress, no makeup

DREAMS

Dreams: Lots: (Day 2, P1) -had more dreams than usual and different themes than usual:

Good dreams (Day 2, P1) -had more dreams than usual and different themes than usual: “Good dreams”,

Dreams about X-PARTNER Friends, boyfriends from past- e.g.: boy friend cheating on her X-girlfriend said hair is in a mess Revenge on x-boyfriend and feeling good about it, HIGHSCHOOL (DAY11, P8) in class at CCNM, D--- was a rep of some sort & P--- was at the front of the class suggesting that one of D---ʼs proposals was not appropriate. D--- was suggesting that for the PCD exam we leave a specula in the patientʼs nose so that we donʼt waste time during the exam. DAY7, P8) other than his break-up with girlfriend he feels positive (DAY2, P1) X-boyfriends that have upset her in the past and hurt her where in the dreams and “I was getting them back for hurting me”, essence was that of revenge. She feels good when she wakes up (DAY12, P8) prover & a female friend were in it, but he canʼt remember more than that – other than this was a girl he had considered dating & now she is engaged. (DAY9, P8) I was at a Mosque – he remembers being outside with his ex- girlfriend (he was fully clothed at this point). He had assumed he could get a ride home with her. He then entered the Mosque & he noticed his clothes were scattered around the entrance way (at this point he is hardly wearing

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 124 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 125 any clothing (perhaps just his underwear). (NB: at the Mosque there are 2 times that people attend – ie. 3am & evening). I was scrambling to retrieve his clothing before people showed up to start Morning Prayer. (DAY5, P8) he was at his recently ex-girlfriendʼs house being intimate & she asked him to kiss or massage her shoulder & he went down to her arm & she said “go back to my shoulder”. (DAY5, P8) Graham was at Western University with a female friend; they bumped into a friend of the girl he was with who knew Graham, but Graham didnʼt know her. This girl implied that she liked Graham. (DAY4, P8) – in morning before waking up: Graham was at a gathering & a 4th yr student was there. He noticed 2 other people that he recognized – friend named s---. She was wearing a light blue outfit & he spilled something on her. Jokingly she was bothering him about it. Apparently it was some kind of blush that Graham had put on his face. She asked why do you put blush on your face? Graham responded, “to give myself color.” (DAY3, P8) Graham & classmates where at CCNM, but the classroom looked unfamiliar. Some kind of social function was going on. He thought it was near the end of the school year b/c someone was writing a joke on the blackboard saying that a classmate of theirs (who was working full time) had just recently started reading the course material. In the dream, Graham felt like telling him that a lot of students have other commitments such as family & work. In the same room on a bulletin board the names of 2 previous 4th yr students were listed stating that one of these people were requested to go to Russia & work with a famous Dr. (whose picture was also posted). (DAY3, P8) dream from his afternoon nap 2-4pm (couldnʼt concentrate this day), with his girlfriend at her house, but the house didnʼt look familiar. He was playing music CDs – he erased a song from the CD. He felt like he shouldnʼt have erased it so he wanted to record it again from one of her CDs (she had the same one) (DAY1, P8) an ex-girlfriend was sleeping over & at that time there were guests over at his house (grandfatherʼs sister & some other young kids - 3- 5 yrs old). At one point in this dream (may be a separate dream) Graham was outside in their backyard garden & he noticed a plant that was growing really well (tall). The head of the plant was resting on top a CD stand that Graham & his girlfriend had purchased. (DAY6, P4) her friend is leaving her 3rd relationship, she is supposed to potentially live with this woman next year this is triggered relationship history with old boyfriends

Strange men/satanic men (Day12, p4): “psycho dream” this am, disturbing nightmare: was with “psychos in ritual abuse, plotting to abuse children and her in a deserted camp, very satanic and “witchy”: many candles one man was completely bonkers: sick”, i woke trying to convince him to put off plan”, she was going to contact police, then woke up Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 124 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 125 Body image, guns/hunting, teeth falling, Egypt, camels, taking care of a baby, sports (DAY1-P5). a W. W. F. wrestling theme but probably (DAY3, P5) had a dream something to do with school but cannot remember details, it was back in high school, the faces were familiar but couldnʼt define exactly who they were, the more I try to remember the quicker and went away (DAY 2, P6) dream early this morning: watching an outdoor play of a football game, which I thought was rather stupid because the actors werenʼt very good football players so it ended up being a bad game and a bad play; the scene looked like St.George circle at U of T (my alma mater, except I went to Mississauga campus); a highschool girlfriend appeared in it, she called me away from the play/game to tell me that my hair looked bad and I should do something about it; a current classmate was in the dream also, I think we smoked at his place after leaving the game early, he agreed that my hair was a mess; I didnʼt seem to care that my hair was a mess (DAY3, P6) another dream about sports this morning, this time it was basketball flashbacks (i.e. old film of pro basketball), I donʼt really like basketball & have never played it.

Dreams others (DAY9, P8) The Elements store took over CCNMʼs present location. They were having a promotional day. I went behind the counter & saw a bag of literature & to my astonishment noticed that my presentation of Naturopathic Medicine was in the bag. (NB: in real life gave a presentation to students in his religious community at a Mosque a couple weeks ago). The owner of Elements saw me behind the counter going through this bag & came over to speak with him. I noticed discomfort b/t them – perhaps b/c he shouldnʼt have been behind the counter. The owner & I critiqued the presentation.

VERTIGO

(DAY12, P8) – 11:15 pm head felt foggy after sitting down in his car & getting up suddenly (Day 4, P8) did work out ie. ST crunches, light weights – directly after getting up, after doing crunches he felt dizzy (DAY 4, P8)AM – after getting out of bed he felt light headed/dizzy (DAY3,4, P8) upon waking head felt dizzy & visual field was darkened Right temple headache (Day11-p2) Had forehead pressure (DAY12-P2) Head pressure over eyes and forehead. (DAY1, P6) mild RHS headache at temple about 7pm

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(DAY9, P5) pains -dull pain above right eye and temple area (DAY 2, P6) headache started 6pm on RHS at temple, first very mild but now (12:30am, June 17), pain is sharp & < RHS temple extending to RHS of R eye; (DAY4, P6) another dull RHS headache this evening at 6:30pm, around temple & radiating somewhat into eye socket, it is very mild & dull, lasted 2 hours (DAY5, P6) LHS headache at temple much like those previously described but sharper & on opposite side, lasted 6pm – 9pm (DAY3, P8) diffuse H.A –mostly posterior – after 1 _ hrs of sun exposure (DAY4, P8) same diffuse H.A, but more superior – after riding bike -both H.A < heat & noise (DAY5, P8) -mild anterior central H.A for approx. 1hr from 9-10am (DAY6, P8) - H.A, generalized to whole head especially anterior central, bothersome (persistent) – started approx. 1:30pm – 10 pm < During & after sun exposure (may have triggered it) < light, noise & heat (P8) At times with this H.A he felt like he might vomit. (DAY6, P8) H.A in the occipital area, - as it progressed, his head felt like it was being filled with fluid - the H.A progressed anteriorly to the central area (> with fresh air

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 126 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 127 NOSE and Sinus

Sneezing (DAY1,P5)sphenoid sinuses feel slightly congested, as if starting to “clog up”

(DAY2,P5)right nostril blocked (DAY2,P5)canʼt sleep since difficult to breathe S.O.B. (DAY3, P8) sneezing fit – 2 fits of 2-3 sneezes each time (although he has some allergies ie. pollen, he doesnʼt recall this to be a regular pattern) (Day4-p2)Throat still sore, nothing moving (DAY18-P2) mucous feels tight, (DAY12-P2) bending head gives mucous - trickling out of nose. (DAY1, P3), sneezing spasm when I got up, runny nose, and also watery eyes. This continued for about 3 hours (DAY7, P4) EYES: very puffy (2) (no precedent or obvious cause)looks like allergic reaction (but nothing changed)puffy below lower lids (1) red conjunctiva rubbing eyes alot: itchy sclera both eyes affected equally

THROAT (Day 3-P2)Throat sore- hard to swallow

EYE Soreness, burning

(DAY1,P5)feeling of slight soreness “under” left eye, more towards the outer canthus (DAY1,P5)left eye watering (DAY1,P5)slight heaviness behind left eye and on left side of face from the temple to the cheek; feels like something is weighing it down (like lead) (DAY2,P5)slight soreness of left eyeball (DAY2, P8) his sight perception appeared paler (hazy, white) for 1-2 minutes (DAY3,4, P8) upon waking head felt dizzy & visual field was darkened (DAY8,P5)dull pain over left eye and left temple (DAY8,P5) can see blood vessels in eyes when looking in mirror (DAY7, P4) EYES: very puffy (2) (no precedent or obvious cause) looks like allergic reaction (but nothing changed) puffy below lower lids (1) red conjunctiva rubbing eyes a lot: itchy sclera both eyes affected equally (DAY2, P4) burning last night (1) 10 pm, couple hours after last dose. (contacts??)

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 128 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 129 EAR Ringing (Day6-p2) PM: Ringing in left ear, a higher pitch sound. I am angry at this time. (Day13-p2)Left ear starting to hurt,

MOUTH Milky taste in the mouth; yogurty feeling (DAY1-P5). after each dose of three pellets he had a taste “ like drinking too much milk “- a yogurt taste (DAY2, P5) still maintaining the pasty taste in mouth (DAY1,P5) pasty yogurt/milk after taste in mouth (DAY1,P5) tongue:-has a pasty white coating on top (DAY8,P5) tongue has white tongue fur

TEETH (DAY1,P5)teeth feel sensitive ie: gums are sore when pressing teeth together (Day15-p2) Teeth felt/ feel like they are detached: sore and achy.

CHEST BREAST PAIN, imagines breast cancer with axillary pain (DAY5,P5)soreness on left side of chest occurred in the morning; 9:00am- 10:30am, in 4th-5th intercostal space (DAY1,P5)pain in 5th-6th intercostal space (left side) more towards the midline of body (DAY1,P5)slight stabbing pain (very brief) under left pectoralis muscle (DAY3,P5)-tenderness in the 4th-5th intercostal space on the left side (DAY3,P5)I notice a burning/tender sensation on left pectoral region, medial to nipple, feels like “heat burn”, < with pressure (DAY3, P5) chest pain on the 4th to 5th intercostal space after taking the remedy; which lasted about 1 minute and returned each time taking the remedy (DAY3, P5) pain on the left pectoralis muscle on the medial side of the left nipple was a burning heart pain sensation (DAY6, P5) pain in side of chest, around the 4th to 5th intercostal space, only occurs in the morning on first movement, fades after about 1.5 hours and seems to occur around 9 AM (DAY2, P4)BREASTFEEDING: (2) keeps coming into her Mind (DAY3, P4) thinks breastfeeding thoughts could be granules of lactose of remedy (DAY6, P4) BREASTS: seem bigger: non-tender (1) at least one week away from menses (will be at new moon) water retention? Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 128 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 129 (Day10, p4) BREASTS: still feel larger, not tender anymore (Day12, p4) BREAST: 3 cherry angiomas showed up on chest, new flat skin tab on L breast (2) (J. has many moles on her torso), noticeable area of induration (3) (Day16, p4) since this proving started having strong breastfeeding images and thoughts. (DAY2, P4) breasts have been more tender than usual

ABDOMEN/STOMACH

Increased thirst (DAY1,P5)abdomen feeling “light”- sort of like “butterflies in my stomach” but not as strong (Day12-p2) very thirsty, (DAY3, P8) 11-12noon played tennis drank more ie. 4-5 glasses of water (DAY1, P8) – increased thirst i.e. 4 full cups throughout the day – he feels itʼs due to his increased physical activity: (DAY2, P8) – had sweet craving early afternoon (moderate) (DAY1,3,4, P8) Stool: noticed blood on bathroom tissue (very tiny drop). He didnʼt notice it in bowl or in/on stool, only on the paper. (DAY1,2, P8) – felt gas in central umbilical area (DAY2, P8) – felt slightly constipated – he had not had much to drink on Wed. 07-01 all day at the Beach (DAY1, P8) early afternoon had sweet craving – satisfied it with 2 oatmeal cookies & a chocolate bar, ate the same cake that he ate at beginning of proving, but this time it did not effect him i.e. no gas, no bloating \ probably were symptoms of the remedy (DAY11, P8) gas in ST never felt it before – disappeared within 20 minutes. For breakfast ate cake, ginseng tea, 2 whole-wheat toast & jam & supplements. Early afternoon 12-1pm studying – cramp in ileus psoas R-side – massaged helped then disappeared. (DAY2, P8) 2-3 pm ate lunch & muffin (possibly had milk in it that caused gas & bloated feeling in intestines) (DAY14, P8) 5:30-8:30pm mild ache around the umbilical area – central abdomen Disappeared within 1 hour (DAY3, P4) loss of thirst: hardly 1 or 2 drinks per day Loose bowels/constipation (DAY2,P5)-experiencing a dull, diffuse pain in URQ of abdomen; liver area, but seems to come from (originate) from the lower border of my rib cage-

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 130 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 131 later, but of a softer consistency (DAY1, P6) urgent need for BM at 11am with some cramping in lower abdomen (Day9, p4) ROUGH MORNING PHYSICALLY: related to menses (Day9, p4) felt like constipation causing pain in rectum (1) pain returned with bowl movement: pain radiated to ovaries, no pain after bowel movement ceased

ANOREXIA V.S OVEREATING, CRAVINGS, (DAY3, P1) - she felt good on waking, her overall energy is slightly better, she has taken time to eat a little more than previous days. (DAY7, P6) Stomach not feeling well this eve, but ate rich and excessive today (DAY3, P8) ate a lot more this day (DAY3, P8) energy is < after eating (lunch) especially in evening after dinner (DAY1, P4) more hungry (possibly) (DAY1, P4) EATING: eructations more often than before thinks may be lying to self about not burping (!) (DAY3, P4) eating lots of fruit: oranges and apples (DAY3, P4) eating so to pacing self for hypoglycemia (DAY6, P4) APPETITE: tending towards spicy foods, HAS NOT EATEN CHOCOLATE SINCE TUESDAY (4) (DAY6, P4) cravings for sugar have greatly decreased (3) has only had raspberry sherbet since proving began (DAY7, P4) APPETITE: forgetting about food (1) getting hungry later: not eating as much on schedule (DAY6, P4) hypoglycemia: less sugar = less hypoglycemia (DAY6, P4) was just eating dinner at 7:52 pm. very unusual!! not planning day around food not taking as much pleasure in food (2): not as exciting as usual feels neutral about food / eating hopes this does not last because she likes the pleasure of food! (DAY7, P4) went over to her friends, craving chocolate, she brought in a big bin of cookies and only ate one!!! Normally she would binge in a situation like this she has wanted to stop eating chocolate, so she feels good about this (Day8, p4) APPETITE: feels “hollow in tummy” after eating, doesnʼt want to eat more, but has “all gone feeling” food is “not exciting” “i have lost my food pleasure”:0/10 craving for chocolate: did not eat any today, and it was available (Day9, p4) HUNGER: ate at 12, hungry at 5:30. not ravenous (Day810 p4) CRAVINGS: sour dairy: ate tons of sour cream at lunch, and feta (DAY6, P4) feels she is getting full easier now cheese (1) (Day10, p4) APPETITE: “food has gone out of my consciousness” hollow feeling after eating still strong (Day10, p4) did not want to eat: lost appetite drank alcohol instead: got Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 130 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 131 drunk on 1-1⁄2 drinks (Day12, p4) eating a lot again: strong, most hungry in am (Day10, p4): “i cant take care of myself” wanted to smoke marijuana, but felt she couldnʼt handle being high it feels like “yesterday i was a teenager” a theme of irresponsibility: did not want to eat “oh, i will get thin” felt like a teenage girl because she wanted to not eat to be thin drinking: normally does not drink, also drank beer at her potluck shopping at Eatonʼs: has not been there since high school the exchange with her mother felt high-school- like “not necessarily me in high school, but a girl” obsessed with clothing: meeting D., and has to go shopping aversion to food (2): forced herself to at toast in the morning liked her lunch at work b/c she made it. “didnʼt occur to me to eat morning: before and after breakfast: nausea “morning sickness” (DAY2, P4)CRAVING: yogurt / milk yesterday (unusual) (DAY6, P4) feels she is getting full easier now

Nausea (DAY12-P2) Feeling nauseated. (DAY1 to 6, P8) “Didnʼt occur to me to eat morning: before and after breakfast: nausea “morning sickness”

URINE (DAY8-P2) Urinating frequently, (DAY1, P8) urine was brighter Kidney Pain (DAY1-P5) sore in the kidney region on the anterior side of body (DAY9, P5) very sharp pain in the area of C7-T1 (nape of neck), electric pain-like feeling (DAAY6,P5) slight abdominal pain

FEMALE Leucorrhea, early menstruation, cramps (cured symptom) (DAY12-P2) Evening: uterine pain. (DAY1, P3), heavier spotting this morning - feels like a period, but my last period was only 13 days ago ( It is a period) (DAY3, P4) LEUKORRHEA: none (Day8, p4) started period today: “feels weird” no cramps (often has warning cramping), brown flow, light (normally fresh red: looks like last day does normally) (Day9, p4) ROUGH MORNING PHYSICALLY: related to menses Note: she normally has no dysmenorrhoea. She may normally have some lower back cramping, but had none today. Lower abdominal cramps radiating to rectum (2) “I felt like my uterus was coming out my rectum” Very intense pain : 8/10 very unpleasant and sharp (2)

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 132 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 133 SKIN

Dry skin, scalp and dandruff, flaking, pimples, itch Athleteʼs foot (DAY11-P2) pimple on neck (RHS ) in the thyroid region, (DAY3, P5) dry skin under the pectoralis muscle, notice it is better shattering, just wiped off the dry skin (DAY4, P8)– morning mildly itchy, R-umbilical region (Day3,P8) (new rash) - noticed a couple flat red macules located on lower chest area (lower than were he gets his tinea versicolor), upper chest / neck he still gets tinea versicolor (DAY11, P8) after sun exposure, again noticed 1 or 2 red patches (DAY12, P8) noticed tinea again on neck & upper R-upper chest (Day8, p4) SKIN: has “underground pimple” on forehead (Day8, p4) skin has been very itchy: voluptuous itching last night had an itch attack before bed “i turned on my toe and scratched for 10 minutes” itches like a wound healing (DAY6, P4) SCALP: itchier than normal (DAY11-P2) pimple on neck( RHS ) in the thyroid region, (DAY7, P4) FOOT: doesnʼt hurt as much: not as worried nail will fall off nail bed at base: swollen cuticle, yellow crumbly nail TX: pau dʼarco foot bath (DAY6, P4) middle toe on left: swollen and red (2) painful. aware of toe most of day “nail fungus” nail looks like it may come off, sudden onset (DAY6, P4) specific parts: toe is hot (3)

Extremities

PAIN, back (Day1- P2)Tired and legs feel quite heavy (DAY1,P5)soreness in left scapula; around the upper 1/4 of the medial border (Day4-p2) PM: right knee a bit sore (DAY1,P5)stabbing sensation on inner anterior edge of left leg (DAY1,P5)tingling sensation in ring finger (4th finger including thumb in count) of left hand (DAY4, P8)– – feet severely itchy upon waking (DAY2,3, P8) Hands – middle finger 2:30pm (finger pain on R-middle finger tip lateral side – only felt it when pressure was applied such as holding a pen (DAY5,P5)sensation of having been scratched by an iron nail across my forearm, but nothing is there (DAY5,P5)hamstrings of my right leg are tensing up and I donʼt know why

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 132 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 133 (DAY1,P5)sore and itchy sensation on medial part of left shin (DAY2,P5)soreness in area of left clavicle (DAY2,P5)tender sensation on inner part of right knee (Day3, P5) 9:35pm- chest pain sitting down, (Day3, P5) tightness in left trapezius muscle (Day7-p2) Legs restless (DAY7,8,9,11, P8)–Around midnight – feet were itchy – plantar surface of ball of R-foot (Possibly d/t wearing sandals for most of the evening) (Day8- P2) Evening: Knees weak- I know I am tired. (DAY16-P2) R& L axillary pain - vague and non-localized, (Day 18-p2) Sore back (lower) (Day21-p2) right knee is hurting - an achy pain, (DAY12-P2) right shoulder pain (Day8, p4) knuckles on right hand: MCP / phalanges have “arthritic pain” (2) feels achy and painful better: motion, better cold (DAY2, P4) neck doesnʼt hurt at all: spontaneous resolution “last week ROM was pathetic” Right sided pain, sharp, tension, dull, as if ready to burst out (DAY1,P5)-sharp pain in 5th intercostal space on left side (DAY16-P2) R& L axillary pain - vague and non-localized, (Day 18-p2) Sore back( lower) (Day21-p2) right knee is hurting - an achy pain, (DAY12-P2) right shoulder pain (DAY12-P2) Evening: Right axillary pain, uterine pain. (DAY2, P5) member pain on right side at the border of the liver, like a Bruce pain, which was a worse talking (DAY6, P5) pain in right forearm, feels like an “over flexion” and “as if ready to burst out of the skin (DAY6, P5) right hamstring muscle has been tensing up, occurred for two hours and actually during the time of the questioning (DAY9, P5) pains -dull pain above right eye and temple area

Sleep

Napping (DAY3,P5) sleep was deep, but as soon as I heard noises (ie: family waking up) I was listening to everything that was going on, even though I was still sleeping (day3-p8) late afternoon felt tired (probably due to studying – bored!!) –going for a walk helped clear his head (DAY8,P5-I took a nap that lasted for 4hours!!! this is HIGHLY UNUSUAL since I never take naps (day6-p8) had problems waking up i.e. hard to get out of bed, drifted in &

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 134 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 135 out of sleep for 2 hours (day12-p8) same trouble waking up in the morning & getting out of bed (DAY3, P4) clothing while sleeping? Is nude (DAY3, P4) falling asleep much easier (DAY2, P5) still dropping off quicker to sleep (DAY9, P5) sleep- napped for 4 hours today (DAY3, P5) still dropping off quick to staple (Day8, p4) falling asleep suddenly (lenses and all) in a strange bed usually takes her 10-15 minutes at least in a new bed...

GENERAL

Agg Bending: (Day8- P2) Still mucous especially when I am exerting myself physically (DAY12-P2) bending head gives mucous - trickling out of nose (DAY13-P2) head pressure on back of head when I bend over.

Weather ((DAY3, P4) happy with rain (Day8, p4) WEATHER: felt good in sun (Day8, p4) opening windows: liking wing / warm air (vs air conditioning)

ENERGY INCREASED, as if on steroid vs. very tired (Day 5, P1) She has been busy working a lot. She sounded like her energy was really high, and happy. (Day14-p2) Lower energy, tired and heavy feeling again. (Day16-p2)Canʼt give anymore, feeling stress, cried- tired- fatigue, (DAY2,P5)energy level increased while taking pills (DAY3,P5)energy level increased (Day1- P2)Tired and legs feel quite heavy (Day 2-P2) feeling raw/weak through my upper body. I know I am tired. (DAY1-P5) energy increased towards the evening (DAY2, P5) energy was higher than usual (DAY3, P5) energy at 8/10, which means it, has increased from previous days (DAY4, P5) energy level still at 8 or even 9 but motivation to do things is still low (DAY5, P8)– – went out dancing & feet felt really tired & achy (progressively worsened – faster than normal) (DAY9, P5) extremely drained of energy today (4/10), napped for 4 hours today (DAY4, P5) more confident and more energetic; “as if I had an adrenaline rush “ (DAY1, P6) very tired at 9:30pm, but now it is 11:30pm and feeling second

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 134 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 135 wind; (DAY1, P6) mild RHS headache at temple about 7pm, pain is vague and mild; very lethargic briefly riding home from work 6pm, but didnʼt have same “freeze-frame” perception that I had on way in morning (DAY 2, P6) very tired all afternoon but had disturbed sleep last night due to daughterʼs illness (thought she was getting better bur frequent coughing last night); (DAY5, P6) began day with bike ride 7am, E 9/10 throughout day (DAY3, P8) energy highest 1-2 hours after wake up, lowest mid-late afternoon (Day12, p4) eating a lot again: feeling strong, most hungry in am (DAY9, P8) 10-11 pm feet start to get hotter (DAY12, P8) soles of feet hot on waking in morning (DAY3, P4) others thought she was extra energetic (DAY3, P4) energetic, friendly, enthusiastic (DAY6, P4) more tired today, low energy after lunch

SENSATION: HEAT IN GENERAL/ HOT FEET, perspiration (Day1- P2) Noticed red spots on my left hand dorsal side (heat rash?) (DAY1-P5) temperature was better taking the remedy, felt hotter than normal, “like a fever coming on “ (DAY1,2, P8) - feel hot in general – played tennis in sun for 2 hrs so drank more (DAY2, P5) again fell to hotter than normal but not sweating (DAY3, P5) temperature still elevated (DAY5, P5) have a “heat feeling “over body (DAY4,P5), general “heated” feeling (DAY1, P6) co-worker comments that I am giving off “a warm aura” (he is not aware of proving) but I donʼt feel unusually warm (DAY3, P8) In general feel warmer probably due to the weather changes (DAY2, P8) feet were so hot that he had trouble falling asleep – he kept putting his feet in & out of the covers (DAY7, P8)– still hot in general, but thinks itʼs b/c itʼs so humid outside! (DAY8, P8) feet temperature in general feel warm to the point of mild irritation ie. dry & slightly burning (DAY9, P8) 10-11 pm feet start to get hotter (DAY12, P8) soles of feet hot on waking in morning (DAY13, P8) 11pm had to remove socks (DAY5, P8) hot feet while studying – afternoon (DAY7, P8)– sweating in proportion to the weather (DAY1, P4) TEMP: chilled in office: air conditioning (DAY3, P4) became warm teaching yoga (Day9, p4) PERSPIRATION: very stinky (1), she was enjoying her smell, but her mother asked her to shower (Day10, p4) “Body gets warm at night, but i am not hot”

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 136 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 137 One proverʼs experience: Cured symptoms: In mid august the prover had to go to the hospital with a severe rectal pain that was an aggravation of the earlier menstrual symptoms. The cramps were subsequently disappeared. She had commented, “I am 17 today!!” Something in the remedy certainly let her return to old states that had not been fully explored, as in the irresponsible teenager, and the non-attentive girlfriend. She is beginning a relationship with a long time male friend of hers; so, she will be adventuring into new territory there as well. The remedy in her own word has ʻdecreased her anxietyʼ. She is living by herself, last I heard, staying at someoneʼs house for a few months while they travel. She chose not to live with another female friend after all... I really respected the power of the remedy to support her making choices that she had been holding but not acting upon: breaking up with her girlfriend being one of the stronger ones, as well as decreasing the amount of chocolate and sugar she consumed, and spending more time alone. I think the face of anorexia in the remedy was also a powerful one, as it brought out one of her fears of being anorexic and excessively body conscious, which seemed as though it had not been voiced before.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 136 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 137        Judy Seeger ND

Entrepreneur Magazine recommends having a budget of at least $5,500 for your first year in business. After you have paid for supplements, furniture, staff and anything else necessary to get your practice up and running, will you have any money left over for marketing? Luckily, there are free ways to market your practice and increase your clientele. All you have to do is be committed to implementing a seven-step process to get the results you want – more patients. These seven steps will bring you immediate patient referrals in a very short time. I have personally used these techniques for more than ten years and have found them to be proven methods for client retention.

Step 1: Make Your Patients Comfortable Marketing your alternative practice is all about making your patients comfortable. This is where successful marketing always begins. For example, do you have patients who often arrive frazzled and apologetic because theyʼre often at least ten minutes late? Do you make them wait even longer to teach them a lesson, walk into the exam room with a scowl on your face or greet them warmly and offer them a glass of water? If you chose the last option youʼre in the minority! Most practitioners are in such a hurry to “solve health problems” that they neglect to really listen to their patients or treat them with compassion and understanding. This may be one of the fastest ways to lose a patientʼs business.

After you have made your patients comfortable you will be in an excellent position to sell your services. Always tell your patients about special classes or any promotion youʼre having for the month, or at the very least, sign them up for your free newsletter (more on this later). Also make sure to have pre-printed signup sheets ready for jotting down your patientsʼ addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses for follow-ups.

Step 2: Create a Professional Phone Message that Sells Your Practice Since first impressionsdo count, make sure you speak slowly and with courtesy anytime you talk on the phone. Also train your staff to answer the phones courteously and professionally. When you create a voicemail message for your practice, promoting yourself is more important than

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 138 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 139 telling potential clients about your business hours. Inform clients about new products or special classes running throughout the month in your voicemail. If you have a Web site, include the full Web address or URL for your site on your phone message as well.

Step 3: Follow-Up with Your Patients Follow-ups can be one of the most difficult aspects of marketing. Practitioners rarely do follow-ups with their patients. However, when implemented, follow-ups work extremely well. Within twenty-four hours of a patient visiting your practice you should call them personally. When you call your patients, briefly ask them how they feel or if theyʼre following any recommendations you may have given. Discuss any possible adjustments they can make to better follow your recommendations.

Remember, marketing is all about making patients feel comfortable. If you take the time out of your schedule to call your patients they will feel cared for and you will build a rapport with them. Even leaving a message for a patient who is not at home will impress upon both them and their families just how much you care. This can be an excellent way to spread frequent “word of mouth” about your practice.

Step 4: Create the Right Image for Your Practice Everything from the logo of your practice to the colors in your office and the images on your business cards can make a strong first impression on potential clients. Since first impressions are so very important you want to ensure that you create the right image for your practice. If youʼre starting out with a very low budget how can you afford to ensure youʼre creating the right image for your practice? The first place to start is with your business cards. Potential clients may see your business cards long before they may visit your practice. At http://www.vistaprint.com you can get two hundred and fifty high quality business cards for free (shipping and handling is approximately five dollars). You should order two different kinds of business cards – one for patients with very muted, soft colors and one for professionals with bolder, or more conservative lines. Always give your patients two cards – one for themselves and another one to give to someone else.

Step 5: Offer Various Promotions Everyone loves to save money, but should you offer coupons for various services or products you are offering? Whatever works for you and can generate referrals is an excellent idea. For example, on the back of my brochures I offer a twenty five dollar discount for any service costing more than one hundred and twenty five dollars, which covers a normal office call and gives patients a sense of saving money. When I want to generate immediate referrals I simply put an expiration date on the bottom of the brochure along with an advertised incentive such as a free product sample.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 138 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 139 Step 6: Educate Your Patients At a recent speech in Henderson, Nevada, Dr. Andrew Weil stressed how important it is to educate your patients. When you offer weekly or even monthly classes, your patients will appreciate your efforts. You can promote your classes on your phone messages. If you can, make attendance at these classes mandatory. You could tell your patients that you are absolutely committed to their healing and that they are required to come to one educational class per month for three months. As an added incentive, you could offer them a discount on their next office visit (usually around ten dollars) if they attend and offer additional incentives for them to bring friends or loved ones. When you hold your classes, always have some healthy snacks available to help keep your patientsʼ energy level high. This may also help keep them awake during an end of day class.

Step 7: Create Newsletters Newsletters are an important point-of-contact between you and your clients. They are an excellent way to inform clients about new products, services and any other health news that may be relevant to them. Before desktop publishing became the norm, newsletters used to be very time consuming. I personally remember staying up until three A.M. trying to develop, print, stamp, address and get some of my older newsletters off in the mail. Even with my friends and family members helping out, preparing one newsletter could be a week-long affair.

Today, with the help of Microsoft Publisher, a newsletter can be created in just a few short hours. Your own newsletter doesnʼt even need to be very long. You could include a short health article, a product promotion or special discount and information on upcoming health classes. You can print hard copies of the newsletter within your office and e-mail copies of the newsletter to everyone on your subscriber list. Of course, this will save you a lot of money on postage as well.

Taking the First Steps Marketing has to be an ongoing process in order for your business to thrive. Simply take any one of the seven steps above and implement it consistently to achieve the desired results. The more steps you follow, the greater your success may be. Within one or two weeks you will notice more patients coming into your office and these patients will bring their family and friends.

Judy Seeger ND, has owned two holistic health clinics in Wisconsin and California. With more than sixteen years in the natural health industry, she has used the seven proven marketing techniques to build successful practices. Individual marketing consultations are also available to all alternative health care practitioners by calling (702) 862-9346 or emailing [email protected]. Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 140 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 141 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 140 Winter/Spring 2006Winter Volume / Spring XIX 2007 / SIMILLIMUMVolume XX / SIMILLIMUM 114 141     :  AUGUST 24-47, 2006. SEATTLE. Michael Glass MD

During the 1980ʼs, I was much taken by James Tyler Kent. To me, he seemed the last of homeopathyʼs giants, that is, until I met Massimo Mangialavori, one of the new giants of our current homeopathic renaissance. He is most known, like Scholten and Sankaran, for devising a unique and brilliant way to group remedies. Such groupings are incredibly helpful, since one need not commit every single remedy to memory as an isolated entity. If one understands, for example, the Loganaceae to which Nux vomica and Ignatia belong, one can first discern general group characteristics in a case, and then hone in on the correct member of the group.

For Massimo, a group is defined thematically, through shared adaptive strategies, rather than taxonomically. Thus Massimo includes in his belladonna-like grouping the expected Solanaceae, but also remedies such as Tanacetum though it is an Asteraceae, and also Gallicum acidum and Lyssinum which are not even plants.

His groupings are based not on chemical structure or botanical taxonomy, but on adaptive strategy. And to explain these strategies, he draws from a range of disciplines including ethology, evolutionary theory, developmental psychology, psychoanalysis, mythology and symbolism. With an unparalleled multidisciplinary breadth and depth, he peers into the very soul of each remedy, capturing its unique strategy and its corollary suffering.

Massimo is a renaissance man, not only because his breadth of knowledge, but also his free-thinking iconoclasm. He is not afraid to challenge its sacred cows and take homeopathy to task. He finds the repertory, for instance, quite limiting. It is not important, he states, that Pulsatilla is listed under ʻforsaken,ʼ but rather to understand the particular version of forsaken which it expresses.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 142 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 143 Like Kent, Massimo uses analogical thinking which is richly phenomenological rather than simplistically mechanistic. Thus the system of an individual expresses itself through analogy, symbols, dreams, etc.

Thinking analogically sometimes enables homeopaths to select remedies effectively that have not been fully proven. Looking at Spongiaʼs primitive structure, one can guess that an individual needing this remedy will be a simple, basic type. Similarly, Squilla, the sea onion, can retain and discharge large quantities of fluid. Therefore, it is little surprise that it is effective for edema with repeated swellings.

Massimo has developed two programs which are now available through his website Mangialavori.com. Consulta is a database for case-taking and retrieval. One can sort by remedy for the purpose of research, study and analysis. Tesi, on the other hand, organizes remedy information for easy access. Additionally, Massimo, working with David Warkentin, has developed new tools of remedy analysis for use with MacRepertory and Reference Works.

Massimo started his seminar on Panic with an exploration of the word itself, referring to the god Pan who, appearing out of nowhere, represented chaos (as in ʻpandemoniumʼ). Panic differs from anxiety in that the former has no discernible cause. Typically, the individual can describe the symptoms of panic-- palpitation, dyspnea, vertigo, perspiration, fear of going insane, etc.--but has no insight into their causation. Following psychoanalysis, Massimo explains the true causation of panic as repressed instinctual forces breaking free and causing somatic symptoms which are experienced as alien to the self rather than from the self.

The first case presented was a case of Limulus - the horseshoe crab:

A woman, age thirty-seven, had severe autoimmune disease with multi- system symptoms: collagen degeneration of veins, arthritic hip destruction, and chronic phlebitis. Capillary disorder with burning pains, neurological (burning) pains, herpes with burning. Ovarian cysts, breast nodules. Allergic asthma in the past. Several years of psychoanalytic treatment led to a decrease in her depression, after her husband left her, but then a full- blown panic disorder emerged: fainting, air hunger, dizziness.

She had been happily married at nineteen to her husband who then left her for another woman when she was thirty. She had been totally dependent on him, had done nothing without him; always consulting him prior to making any decision. Even after their separation she would call him to ask his advice.

The first panic attack occurred while at work after having had many Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 142 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 143 thoughts about her failed marriage.

She arrived at Massimoʼs office with her mother. The fact that she brought her mother, lived at home with her, and consulted with her estranged husband before making any decisions were all significant. Her dependency and immaturity led him to consider the sea animals. Certain other features confirmed this association. Sea animals need support while striving for independence. They are ambivalent toward the mother. On a physical level, they often have burning herpetic eruptions. Massimo repertorized numbness of the limbs, numbness of the lower limbs, eruptions of herpes on the extremities, forehead headaches, cramping, respiration difficult with drinking, burning and constricting. This led him to Limulus!

It is interesting to note that the blood of the horseshoe crab, Limulus, is blue because of its copper content. Hemoglobin contains iron at the center of a heterocyclic porphyrin ring (globin). But in the blood of this sea animal, it is copper that is present at the center. Cuprum (copper) and its salts are well known for cramping. Massimo has found that cramping is very common for Limulus as well.

Massimo mentions that he has several cases of severe degeneration of the hips which have benefited from Limulus. It is an excellent remedy for children with hip problems and for German shepherd dogs with hip dysplasia.

The patient was given Limulus LM1. (Massimo, these days, uses mostly Q potencies and LM potencies when Q potencies are not available. Q potencies differ from LMʼs in that the diluting/potentizing process begins with trituration to the 3C potency while LMʼs begin with the mother tincture. There was rapid relief of the burning pains but in ten days, aggravation with return of burning. The patient was told to stop the remedy. However, after stopping the remedy, panic symptoms soon reappeared and the patient was advised to resume the remedy two to three times a week. She did this with good results.

Her follow-up confirmed typical features common to Massimoʼs other cured cases of Limulus. He states: “These people love sports and are very athletic. They will run and jump even though injured in order to demonstrate how good they are. Limulus children are self-destructive; they will produce injury to show that they are strong enough to overcome it.” (To my own mind, this expresses the ambivalence around autonomy. I injure myself to create dependency. I act as if there is no injury to demonstrate independence.) This struggle also is demonstrated by the need to maintain distance in relationships and distance from oneʼs own emotions. To cope with their dependency needs, Limulus patients may self-soothe by Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 144 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 145 holding onto something physical like a medicine bottle.

On the physical plane, herpetic symptoms are common in Limulus. Burning pains of the extremities. Numbness is common and affects the feet. Massimo points out that this has to do with an inability to stand on oneʼs own feet. Limulus is also compelled to stretch. They have pain in spots, feelings of fullness, weakness and infirmity in the evening and drinking difficulties; oppression and dyspnea while drinking.

The other remedies for panic which Massimo elaborated upon were Castanea vesca, Fraxinus, Aether, Gunpowder, Verbascum, Argentum muriaticum, Alumina phosphorica, Spongia, Abelmoschus, Gossypium, Astacus fluviatilis, Homarus, Pecten jacobaeus, Venus mercenaria, the Kali salts, Veratrum album, Calcarea silicata, Veratrum album and Glonoinum.

The panic seminar will be published as a book later this year. Many of his other seminars are already available in English as a series of paperbacks which can be purchased directly from his website. The level of editing varies. Some are nearly verbatim transcriptions of his spontaneous lectures. The goal here was simply to get this information out as quickly as possible to practicing homeopaths. More recent seminars, including this one, are being rewritten from the notes to make them more readable and user- friendly.

M. Robert Glass Seattle

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Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 144 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 145        Elena Cecchetto

Learning from Jan Scholten is like taking a trip to an unknown land. Every day of the three-day seminar in San Francisco was a new adventure. There were new provings, new remedies and more insights into Jan Scholtenʼs classification system.

Jan presented very interactively with the seminar participants keeping us very involved. There was a really great rapport between him and the participants. There were many prestigious homeopaths in the crowd, plus a few newly graduated participants, plus me - a fourth year student!

Though most of the patients on the case videos were speaking a foreign language, we could understand what was important. The impressions of the patients were discussed openly with the participants. Taking this information and some of his case notes, he would ask how we would analyze the case. First looking at what series is the problem in? Then what stage? Which salt represents the patientʼs state and voila! Thereʼs the remedy! Homeopathy is so easy here in this foreign land weʼre in!

I especially learned from his rationale for the questions he asked the patients. Jan will ask the patient if something is difficult or easy so that the patient can reveal the stage their remedy is in. Their level of confidence in themselves will tell you if theyʼre in the first or last half of the periodic table, first half being less confident. You can even ask, “Have you reached your goal?” The confidence could be there but not in relation to their goals. The stage is where the problem is or what they do with it. The series is how they handle it. When to choose a salt depends on if the whole case is solved by the metallicum. If there are important issues not addressed by that remedy, then look for the salt that covers what is left over.

One of the case examples was a young man who wanted to be a world champion fighter. He has dreams of fighting but they end ineffectually. His fighting is about self-control. His goals in life are to have a girlfriend and to make a lot of money. So, of the series (to be a world champion), we may think gold or silver. However, the self-control aspect leads towards

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 146 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 147 the lanthanides. Lanthanides are about the self. There are themes of self- discovery. The diseases typically associated with the lanthanides are autoimmune diseases. So he is in the lanthanide series at a fighting stage. These are known to be stage 6 or stage 8, or even stage 12. He is young and on the left side of the periodic table.

The difference between stages 6 and 8 is that stage 6 has to do something dangerous and stage 8 has to do something very big that involves having power. Stage 6 has power at certain moments (in fighting, its the hook which is short, tough and dangerous). Stage 8 has a massive power that pushes through (such as constructors - managers of large construction companies). So, he is stage 6 of the lanthanides which is Neodymium. So the next thing to look at is any element of the case not already covered by this remedy. If there are no important elements missing, then prescribe the metallicum. In this case, the young manʼs goals of getting a girlfriend and having a lot of money can be seen as a theme of fluoratum.

The Lanthanides are an impressive group of remedies and Janʼs teachings makes it seem simple to see them in patients. However, the lanthanides were not the only topic of discussion. Jan demonstrated how he approaches cases, case taking and the way he fits it together with his classification method.

Using his APG classification (described in Scholtenʼs The Secret Lanthanides, can help homeopathy grow as a science and allow us to see remedies more directly. After lunch each day, Jan conducted flower “picture provings” that will be posted on Lou Klienʼs website. What we did was write down our impressions after proving the picture of the flower that was on display on the projector in the front of the room.

I personally enjoyed the insights he offered on how to look at case taking and treatment in patients with substance abuse issues and drug addictions as I am doing research on this topic. He has many good cases in The Secret Lanthanides that demonstrate that homeopathy can be very successful in this sphere.

Elena Cecchetto is an up and coming Homeopath. She is one of the co- founders of the Homeopathy House of Healing, a new innovative project that is on its way to success. She is very passionate about all-natural healing. Elena plays many important roles as a Homeopath. She sees the importance of giving to her community. She has been a Board Member of the Canadian Society of Homeopathy and the West Coast Homeopathic Society and is a member of many other Homeopathic organizations and professional journals.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 146 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 147        ⁽⁾ (A Network under the auspices of the European Association of the History of Medicine and Health)

CALL FOR PAPERS

HOMEOPATHY AND HOSPITALS IN HISTORY

Date of the conference: July, 4th to 7th, 2007 (arrival: Wednesday, July 4th, evening; departure: Saturday, July 7th, afternoon) Place: Institut für Geschichte der Medizin der Robert Bosch Stiftung, Stuttgart, Federal Republic of Germany

Organizer: Institut für Geschichte der Medizin der Robert Bosch Stiftung Stuttgart Responsible: Prof. Dr. Martin Dinges, Phone**49 (0) 711/46084-167; Secr. -172/171 Fax -181 Venue: Institut für Geschichte der Medizin der Robert Bosch Stiftung Stuttgart Straussweg 17 D 70184 Stuttgart FRG Conference language: English

Deadline for abstracts: March 4th, 2007 Contact: E-mail for abstracts: [email protected] Definitive invitation of speakers: end of March Deadline for submission of papers: June 15th, 2007 Precirculation of all papers: June 20th, 2007

The institution of the hospital plays a crucial role in the history of modern medicine as the “birth-place“ of clinical research, the medical gaze, the medical profession and as a specific setting for caring and curing. The beginnings of homoeopathy (1796) occured parallel to the “birth of the clinic“ in the first half of the 19th century. Therefore, it is not surprising that homeopathic physicians paid attention to hospitals. The hospital represented for them as later on for homeopathic patients, a benchmark for

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 148 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 149 public recognition as a medical system both in the medical world as well as to the wider public. The founder of homeopathy, Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843), was committed to the idea of establishing a hospital in Leipzig and he invited homeopaths from all countires to contribute to this goal.

The later history of homeopathy and hospitals is manifold. Clinical trials took place all around the world from Naples to St. Petersburg and from Moscow to San Francisco. They were carried out continuously since the 1820ʼs and up to this day in clinics around the globe.

Homeopaths partially succeeded in integrating their healing methods into hospitals in many countries and they play an ever growing role in cases, where medical council is necessary. Some dispensaries inside the British National Health System which promote homoeopathic treatments, are yet another example for recent trends.

Homeopaths also succeeded in establishing their own institutions in many places such as Munich, Madrid, Philadelphia, Rio de Janeiro, Benares (India) during the 19th century. In places such as Berlin, plans could not materialize because of public and/ or political resistance in spite of sufficient private funds. Nevertheless, new homeopathic hospitals were founded during the 20th century in such different locations as Stuttgart, various cities of India and Sri Lanka and since the 1990ʼs, in Cuba. In Germany alone more than half a dozen mostly small homeopathic clinics are active.

Many homeopathic physicians were trained at hospitals, though only during certain periods. In general, other forms of training, such as internships in homeopathic medical practices, played a more important role than in the curriculum of the general practitioner. Still, the impact of hospital training has to be re-evaluated, taking into account experiences from the early 20th century in Brazil or the late 20th century in India or Cuba.

In the early years, wealthy donors were a crucial precondition for the funding of hospitals, which tended always to produce large deficits. In some countries, for example in Russia, Britain and Brazil, and on certain occasions, patients became aquainted with homeopathy by chance, such as in an emergency or because of a close proximity. In other places associations or homeopathic patients lobbied intensively trying to establish homeopathic hospitals or at least homeopathic wards in general hospitals. The relation of these patients with the homoeopathic hospital emerges as another interesting aspect of the topic of the conference.

This short overview of some central features in the relation between homeopathy and the hospital shows that this institution played and continues to play an important role in the worldwide history of homeopathy. Even if the Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 148 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 149 hospital was never the first priority of the homoeopathic community, it was always relevant and has been gaining importance since the 1990ʼs.

We know little about homeopathic hospitals beyond institutional history – apart from rare studies about the homeopathic research done inside the clinic, the treatment, the nursing and other aspects.

The aim of the conference is to collect further evidence about the homeopathic hospital in history and to bring local and scattered experiences from different parts of the globe into a productive dialogue.

Some hints to bibliography: Naomi Rogers: An Alternative Path. The Making and Remaking of Hahnemann Medical College and Hospital in Philadelphia, Rutgers UP, New Brunswick 1998 Michael, Emmans Dean: The Trials of Homeopathy. Origins, Structure and Development, KVC-Verlag, Essen 2004 Heinz Eppenich: Geschichte der deutschen homöopathischen Krankenhäuser. Von den Anfängen bis zum Ende des Ersten Weltkrieges, Haug-Verlag, Heidelberg 1995 Thomas Faltin: Homöopathie in der Klinik. Die Geschichte der Homöopathie am Stuttgarter Robert-Bosch-Krankenhaus von 1940-1973, Haug-Verlag, Stuttgart 2002 Martin Dinges: Patients in the History of Homoeopathy, EAHMH- Publications, Sheffield 2002 (esp. papers of Nicholls and Kotok)

HOW TO PROCEED? Please send an English language abstract for a paper (one page length) until March 4th, 2007 to the following email address martin.dinges@igm- bosch.de: The abstract must contain name, title, position and institution of the author, email-address, and ordinary mail address. You will be informed before the end of March 2007 whether your proposal has been accepted or not. The guidelines for the preparation and submission of papers will be sent together with the message of acceptance.

Papers will be precirculated, at last two weeks before the conference. This enables every participant to read the papers and to get a precise idea of the other contributions to the conference. During the conference the paper will only be summarized (seven minutes), followed by a comment and a discussion.

Participation is only guaranteed if the deadline for submission of papers is kept: June 15th., 2007. For paper givers; travel expenses, lodging and board during the conference will be paid for by the organizer.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 150  An Exploration of its Nature Through The Prism of Homeopathy Richard Pitt Lalibela Publishing 1199 Sanchez St. San Francisco, CA 94114 Paperback 209 pages. $20.00

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 151 Richard Pitt’s terrific book focuses onTabacco , but it is not always the Tabacum we know, lest there be confusion. Nicotiana tabacum is an important facet of the story, but the homeopathic prism is particularly focused on Nicotiana rustica, which not only contains four times the nicotine, but also contains the mildly hallucinogenic driver Harmaline, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor that potentiates the more potent tryptamine hallucinogens and, of course, inhibits the breakdown of seratonin.

The structure of the book is a lengthy and fascinating discussion of the human relationship with tobacco, followed by a proving of Nicotiana rustica. Reading Pitt’s book brought up many diverse feelings and responses. I have never been a tobacco smoker. Some years ago I had the privilege of participating in an all night Native American Church ceremony in the mountains of eastern British Columbia. Within this incredibly refined ritual space there is a time when a tobacco reefer is smoked while personal prayers are made. I thought to myself that this would be a wonderful opportunity to taste the more shamanic side of tobacco. Of course, I did not realize the distinction of tobacco species that Richard describes in his book. I can surely say that the tobacco I smoked was more or less a common form of the plant. What did I get from my experience of tobacco? In a word dizziness and nausea.

On the other hand, I found myself very “stimulated” by Pitt’s discussion on the relationship between man and tobacco in terms of its effect on human psychology and the implications for how we understand the nature of human consciousness itself.

If you’re a bit of a history buff, this is a terrifically interesting journey through the history, politics and psychology of tobacco – a plant that has woven itself so intimately into the fabric of the world.

The last half of the book is given over to the details of the proving, themes listed along with proving symptoms and a long list of rubrics. The proving method is discussed in adequate detail and the proving record stands as the first detailed proving of the rustica species.

For the most part, this is a book that could or should be of some interest outside of homeopathy, though it is not perhaps likely to be so. In any case, it is a fine read and a may turn out to be a valuable addition to the modern proving records.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 152  An Exploration of its Nature Through The Prism of Homeopathy Richard Pitt

An Excerpt: Commentaries on tobacco and the proving:

Life and Death: “Deathly” nausea is one of the well-known characteristics of Tabacum. The word death is interesting in relation to this substance. The above facts of the use of tobacco are testament to the toxicity of tobacco and its impact on societies throughout the world. It is the most widely used drug known to man, having spread originally from the Americas to the rest of the world. Its use is now strongest in developing countries, although in Europe a large percentage of people still smoke. Tobacco lingers around the beginnings and endings of life like no other substance. It is often a witness of the moments after birth or just before death. For a father after the birth of his child or a soldier about to go to battle, a cigarette is the companion often sought: the last rites before an execution are associated with smoking a cigarette. Nicotiana plants were frequently seen in cemeteries, reinforcing the connection between tobacco and the other world.

A common feeling with tobacco is one of calmness, as it collects the mind and allows clear thinking to be had. The proving demonstrated a clear affinity with transitions between one state and another, between sleep and waking, that in-between state when the soul is in no-manʼs land. Similar to the moment before death or just after birth, it is a time of movement from one realm to another, from dark to light or light to dark, a state of movement, a journey. The transition between heaven and earth is also seen in the proving, a “sinking” down, into the earth or a “floating” above, “rising” beyond the earth.

This connection between life and death is evidenced in the dreams of the provers. Some dreamt of births or babies whilst others dreamt of people dying and of funerals.

Dale Pendell writes: Tobacco has to do with energy. Transferring energy,

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 153 attuning energy. As such, energy being traditionally godly province, tobacco is the food of the gods. Even gods have to eat, after all. And remember that tobacco is very food-like. Taking tobacco relieves hunger, much like food does. Further, tobacco grows in gardens, just like food. It likes gardens. It likes rich, sunny soil, and will even volunteer if you prepare a spot for it… Tobacco is probably the oldest cultigen in North America….So we have a plant that looks like food, grows where food grows, allays hunger but still is not quite food. That is, tobacco allays hunger but only temporarily: eventually you still have to eat real food. And tobacco brings its own hunger, a craving that is analogous to the hunger for food. Given these premises, deducing that tobacco is indeed food, but spirit food rather than human food, is not so far-fetched…The godsʼ problem is that although they need to eat, just as we do, no food grows in the spirit land. So they have to deal with humans, who have the tobacco monopoly. They have to bargain. In exchange for our feeding them, and enduring the hardships that such feeding entails, they will try to help us out on their side: keeping accidents from happening, diverting disasters, spilling the beans about where certain animals are living and who it was that pilfered the fish traps, and generally acting as diplomats between various, often malevolent, spirits. So the spirits let us know when they are hungry: the craving of nicotine withdrawal is the growling stomach of the hungry spirit. We feed them by taking tobacco ourselves, and a transference takes place. Some Shamans smoke tobacco more or less continuously. (10)

Donna Cunningham writes: The nature of smoke is to move freely, building bridges between different points in the reality structure. In the body, tobacco creates bridges between different chakras, bridges that shift and bend at different times. The root chakra is involved. Notice how you can light up a cigarette anytime, anyplace, and feel at home with yourself in a moment. The solar plexus can become involved. Think of all those smoke-filled conference rooms, with people using their solar plexus energy for the work process. Obviously the throat chakra is involved, as the throat is the entryway into the body of this substance, so thereʼs an attempt to open up communication – to have a pow-wow. The third eye

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 154 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 155 is part of this bridging, intuitive flashes emerging from this smoky cloud of the unconscious. Those who inhale smoke second-hand, such as the children of heavy smokers, also experience these shifts in consciousness routinely, growing up without clear awareness that this shifting is not the usual way of functioning. (20)

Near death states are also seen in the symptomatology of Tabacum as well as in the use of tabacco. States of coma, unconsciousness, presentiment and fear of death are all seen in the remedy.

Comparison with Tabacum and other drugs. The remedy Tabacum has been a well-known remedy in homeopathy for a long time. However, its usage has been predominantly for physical conditions, mostly relating to nausea, vomiting, heart problems and vertigo. A more nuanced image of its psychological sensations has not been elicited. A study of the original provings show that most information of the remedy comes from the toxicological effect of the substance. There were no provings of the remedy in a high potency. As with most provings, both Tabacum and now Nicotiana rustica could do with a proving using a 1m and 10m potency to extract a complete image of the substance.

Interestingly, one of the keynote symptoms of Tabacum is a sinking feeling, usually associated with nausea. This was confirmed in theN. rustica proving, but the feeling of sinking was also seen in its psychological sensations, making it a theme of the remedy. The sinking was explained in different ways, from a falling from a high place into the earth, a falling through space, a general sinking feeling in the body. The sinking feeling was confirmed in the stomach/abdomen region. The vertigo symptoms were confirmed and also elaborated on withN. rustica. This falling, sinking feeling was consistent throughout the remedy picture, and more modalities were confirmed than are currently found withTabacum .

Therefore, one of the most significant features of this proving is the development of the sinking feeling, from a physical keynote associated with nausea and seasickness to a metaphorical theme of the remedy, consistent with other solanaceae and also with the shamanic use of the tobacco plant. One dream that the author had 2 days after the proving began reveal this theme: “ I was on a bicycle and I flew off the top of something. It was very high and I went a long way. It was quite scary and very real. I ended up landing on a hill and was OK but was very surprised to find myself alright.” In another part of the dream ”I was writing and then fell into the dirt, I picked myself up and carried on writing.”

One distinction between tobacco and other solanaceae is that the sinking Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 154 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 155 feeling is also connected to a floating, a rising above sensation. It is not only in the direction of going toward the darkness therefore, but in rising toward the light, with a sense of surrealness and disconnection with the body. Whilst the former state makes one think of the “darker” solanaceae, those substances whose poisons are very strong, the latter state makes one consider the other ”drug” remedies such as Cannabis, Peyote and Ayahuasca, to which Tobacco is a good friend. Cannabis generally doesnʼt take you to totally other realms, it generally magnifies things in this particular realm or creates a split between this realm and another (feelings of unreality, losing control, confusion of identity.) It shows you what is, but that can be scary enough, especially when you feel you are losing control of this realm, and perhaps your sanity. Peyote generally soothes you into other realms, making you feel connected and secure. It establishes trust in the nature of things, and although it can look like Cannabis in the homeopathic remedy image, it acts differently. Ahayuasca, on the other hand, along with Psilocybin and also LSD to a lesser extent, does both. It takes you to other realms, shows you the nature of other realities, which can scare the life out of you or give you joy and connection. In experiencing other realities you have to leave this realm, which can give an experience similar to death. In the proving of Ayahuasca by Herrick, in Sacred Plants, Human Voices, the theme of death is stated, along with sensations of aggression and blackness. Other themes included that of Supernatural, Flow/Expansion/Power, Flying/Birds and High/Low. Most of these themes are also consistent in the Nicotiana proving, revealing perhaps the influence of the harmaline alkaloids, found in both substances. This also may reflect the essential difference between Nicotiana tabacum and Nicotiana rustica, the former not containing the harmaline alkaloids. It is interesting to note that in the proving of Ayahuasca by Herrick, one sees a certain polarity in the symptoms experienced, similar to many other drug remedies. On the one side you have death, darkness, fear and the supernatural, moving on to expansion, flying, stimulated states. In the proving, there is overall more attention given to the darker side of the symptom picture than the “higher” more ecstatic, trance like qualities of the remedy, which is a significant part of the experience of people who take Ahayuasca. The meaning of Ayahuasca varies but is often translated as vine of the dead, bitter death, or vine of the soul. The term was apparently given by the Quichua (Quecha) people of South America, who when they first used Ayahuasca did not understand its power, leading to some fatal overdoses.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 156 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 157 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 156 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 157     Three Homeopathic Provings from the Students of Nature Care College Sydney Australia Coordinated and compiled by Alastair C. Gray Paperback 264 pages $38.00 Published by 70metres and Nature Care College

Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 158 Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 159 The provings in this volume are Chironex fleckerii (Box jellyfish), Lampona cyclindrata (White Tailed spider) and Ficus macrophylla (Moreton Bay fig).

These are thorough and thoughtfully presented proving, with all of the elements laid out in detail. Here is the introduction, which is particularly interesting in light of the Jeremy Sherr interview in this issue.

EACH OF THESE DOCUMENTS: THREE PROVINGS IN ONE The methodology employed in the completion of these provings is Hahnemannian and essentially follows the guidelines as laid out in Sherrʼs Methodologies book. While this is not the onlv method possible it is the one my training was grounded in and essentially the one employed in all the Nature Care College provings. The exceptions come from the publication of Herscuʼs two books on provings where he makes some astute observations on some aspects of current methods employed. These trials were conducted double blind or in the case of Moreton Bay Fig, blind.

One of the struggles I have in Homeopathy is the conflict, the arguments and the abuse that gets tossed around the profession. In the last few years journals around the world have been filled with conflict; Vithoulkas versus The Rest in Homeopathic Links (1999), and Julian Winston versus Everyone Else in Homeopathy Today (2001). Too easily vigorous debate turns into personal attack in our profession. The conflict seems to centre on the issue of what is ʻgoodʼ and ʻnot goodʼ homeopathy, what is right and what is the fluffy cosmic fringe. What is right or what is the fixed and rigid right wing. Everyone wants good homeopathy but no one can agree what it is. New provings have often been at the centre of these discussions and are often dismissed. There are two main reasons. The first is the indiscriminate inclusion of superfluous secondary symptoms in the monograph. The second is the indiscriminate inclusion of what are obviously group dynamic symptoms. The first is crucial because, it is argued, our materia medicaʼs and repertories become clogged with symptoms that are unreliable. Any glance at a new Synthesis or Complete repertory would support that argument. The second is crucial because the provings seem to become flavored with the charisma of the teacher or organizer and become in some way biased.

Therefore in the interests of reconciling these views I have provided three versions of each of the provings here. In each of these three provings the first proving document solely consists of the primary symptoms only of the provers that cannot (I would argue) under any criteria be questioned. They are the immediate and primary responses to the medicating substance. With the revival of Boenninghausenʼs method in Australia stimulated by the work of Gypser and Dimitriadis, I feel it crucial to present this document as one that is clear, clean and rigorous in its production. Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 158 Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 159 A prominent Sydney homeopath and I were talking about provings and new remedies. He said, “Sure theyʼre interesting, but I can never use the bloody things.” It was an accurate comment, for when one is in a busy inner city practice, with twenty patients a day who have no desire or intention to express a feeling, who want something done about their piles, high blood pressure or chronic sinus condition caused by air conditioning, he has a point. Many new and modern provings are very mind orientated.

But when oneʼs practice is full of patients with more time, more appreciation of deeper parts of themselves, who are willing to explore and journey, who are willing to engage in a relationship and process with the practitioner, then perhaps a new remedy with a clear theme, say Dove or Salmon or Pearl is more easily available and applicable.

Why does this discussion about primary and secondary symptoms really matter? Is it just semantics and technical issues and interpretations of the Organon? Or does it truly go the heart of Homeopathic medicine, a pillar which must not be compromised given that Homeopathy is an inductive science based on the principle of similars; that what a substance creates it can cure.

What it means is that in addition to the inclusion of the symptoms the prover experiences immediately after taking the proving dose; the primary response, many provings include the symptoms the prover then experienced as he/she was returning to health; secondary symptoms.

Some say to this ʻwho cares, any deviation from the usual health is a proving symptom and therefore warrants inclusion, even all of those opposing or polarity symptoms should be included as the body struggles to retain homeostasisʼ.

But others respond with an emphatic “No”! Only those symptoms chosen from the patient which match the primary symptoms of a remedy will cure.

Here is an example. In the proving of Box jellyfish prover ten reported six hours after taking a dose of the remedy, “I wake up feeling happy...l feel really good. More calm... I feel more calm and in the present.”

To some this may seems that Box Jellyfish creates in a healthy person happiness, feeling good, calmness, and ability to be in the present. Do we include this in our proving report and note it in our repertories? Some argue absolutely yes.

Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 160 Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 161 But, arguably, what it means is that this remedy cured (temporarily) depression, inability to focus, anxiety and agitation. It is argued therefore that the symptoms to be included in our repertories are only to be depression, inability to focus, anxiety and agitation. These are the true primary symptoms.

Personally, I have nothing firm to offer by way of conclusions. I do not know who is right or wrong. My suspicion is that both are. That is why I have provided three versions of these provings. I have however been influenced by the model proposed by Herscu in his two new and excellent proving books; the notion of Stress and Strain. This is I feel a much more lucid and modern way of describing this impact on the vital force of a homeopathic proving substance. The primary action is the impression made upon the vital force; the stress. The strain is the secondary action, the vital force throwing up symptoms as it exerts itself against the impact of the stress.

Therefore these primary symptoms only sections of each proving is at the front of each proving book for easy access.

But there is also a second proving document included for each proving. This document includes the totality of the first but also vastly more information, which provides context for many of the symptoms, fills out the proving and gives a feel for it, a flavor of it. Rather than being a dry list of symptoms, this part includes dreams and symptoms and thoughts of both supervisors and provers.

I have conducted and have been involved in many provings and I am constantly struck with the group dynamic which takes effect, the field effect that is created and the specific flavor of this field. This is -a very real group field and dynamic, which any prover experiences in taking part in a proving. When we ingest a proving substance we become the remedy, but we also assume the flavor of the group of which we are a part, or of the leader and coordinator of the group. Many argue that this kind of information is not truly Hahnemannian and should not be included in any proving document. I have to disagree. Certainly, we have very different criteria used in modern provings; letʼs say the rigor of Tungsten or Plutonium and the artistry of Dinosaur, both very different and both valuable. It is my experience that every proving experience is different, every group is different and this dynamic group flavor must be acknowledged.

I was struck when, for example, during the proving of AIDS of which I was as a part, the prover who had a dramatic cure of life-long symptoms, was in the room but never took the remedy. Another example is the delegate at the conference who puts the bottle of proving substance in her pocket, gets an attack of Eupatorium symptoms, and learns later that the Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 160 Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 161 proving substance was Eupatorium. The remedy remained in her pocket. This is important for it tells us that there is a significant part of the proving process that we do not fully understand. We cannot dismiss it because it is there. We cannot see it and measure it with an instrument. But we must be aware of it and be careful of it because we tend to include it in the proving document, and create rubrics for symptoms that are not direct primary symptoms of the remedy being proven, but anecdotal symptoms of people not in the room or who didnʼt ingest the substance or the group dynamic which is taking place. They are often very different.

This is why it seems to me, Vithoulkas for example dismisses most, if not all modern provings. He is not the only one. And in this he is right: there is often a lot of dross and speculation and the inclusion of secondary symptoms and group dynamic. Some provings have a methodology so flaky that they make scientists laugh till they cry. But he is also wrong to dismiss them all. We have hundreds of cures and improved cases with these new remedies. I have seen myself that the supervisors of provers, experience the same proving symptoms as the provers. In a dramatic example during the proving of Pearl (at Nature Care in 1998) the wife of a prover (who had not volunteered nor was she interested in the whole process) developed the exact same symptoms as her husband who was in the proving group.

This must be acknowledged and considered. I have had sensational cures and resolution of symptoms using Hydrogen, Scorpion and Lac Humanum. But there are many more new remedies I have tried in my practice and based the prescription on a lecture or a presentation and had no result. Is this poor prescribing or poor teaching or poor methodology or dodgy information?

Therefore the solution for the present moment seems to me to do even more work on each proving, produce two documents for each proving, both rigorous and with no superfluous information. The first including only primary symptoms, the second including the information also gleaned from supervisors that is directly relevant, both primary and secondary information for the purpose of understanding deeply what the remedy is really about.

In this book there is also a third section for each proving; a brief chronology is included which highlights the experience of the first few days of the major provers. This is included for the reader to provide a feel for the immediate response to the remedy, a different way of structuring the information. I have found there are times when the schema ʻas if one personʼ layout of proving information can be somewhat one-dimensional. I notice Herscu structures his Alcoholus proving in this way. The exception is the proving of Moreton Bay Fig where only ʻas if one personʼ has been presented. Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 162 Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 163 In all three sections all extraneous proving dross has been edited and purged as best as possible. All are necessary to the profession if we are to use these remedies. After all why bother conducting a proving if it is not to be used. I want this and all the provings I have been involved in to be used by the profession, should the Homeopath live in Bolivia or Hyde Park, be they classical (whatever that means) or bent, should they use simplexes or complexes, should they use one methodology in their practice or another. Iʼm sure you can tell I am a Libra. I see and understand the desire for some such as Herscu to create a sound model of a proving which acknowledges that we are the twenty first century and that we are in the age of evidence based, double blind, random, placebo controlled drug trials. We have to tidy up our act. Yet we must also acknowledge the organic process and the shamanic nature of the homeopathic drug trial. I feel that to throw away one is a profound mistake and unnecessarily divisive. We must acknowledge both.

THE THREE REMEDIES INCLUDED HERE

CHIRONEX FLECKERII: BOX JELLYFISH If there is a homeopathic Viagra then this is it. We have it. Look no further. Better still try it, but only at home. The uncontained, animal instinctual compulsive sexuality was completely out of control and forever memorable. But its value in hypertension may emerge over the next years.

LAMPONA CYLINDRATA: WHITE TAILED SPIDER The lasting memory of the 2000 proving was an image of a male prover backing his car into a gasoline pump trying to help a woman, his incredible difficulty in being polite, of the sticky fluid coming out of a provers belly button, of otherʼs hallucinogenic hilarity. These will stay with me forever. And I still have my hot head.

FICUS MACROPHYLLA: MORETON BAY FIG To my mind this proving in 1999 will be the one remembered for the wickedness of the headaches I gave myself as I prepared the remedy. I have decided never to do this to myself ever again. I had awful headaches and then the impulse to protect and mother.

To the generosity of these students who acted as either provers or supervisors or researchers: my thanks for your perseverance and courage and time and generosity. I am sincerely grateful. Alastair Gray Sydney 2005

Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 162 Summer / Fall 2006 Volume XIX / SIMILLIMUM 163  Kingdom Bacteria & Viruses Spectrum Materia Medica Volume 1 Frans Vermeulen Emryss Publishers Hardcover 800 pages $81.75

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 164 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 165 Although published in 2005, this astonishing volume was recently received here for review. Given the outstanding quality of the book, I’m sure the reader will appreciate a late look.

Frans Vermeulen’s Monera is another fascinating and consummate work of scholarship from one of the most valuable modern compilers of materia medica and general source materials. This volume is somewhat similar in structure to Morrison’s exemplary Carbon volume, in that it is an intersection of both scientific and homeopathic information on one specific grouping of remedies. We must truly offer our great respect and appreciation to these authors, pulling homeopathy forward into the 21st. century, with phenomenal, scholarly collections of diverse, high quality information.

The forward is a comprehensive discussion of issues pertaining to classification generally and bacterial species in homeopathy specifically. He discusses the persistent problems of nomenclature and classification in homeopathy. In this lovely book, he has separated Monera from both plant and animal kingdoms, and given them a berth of their own – and rightly so.

Vermeulen offers a mind-bending statistic: Of the approximately one hundred trillion cells inside the average human frame, only ten trillion are human cells. The other ninety trillion cells are bacteria, with some fungi, parasites and viruses, thrown in for good measure. Inside our own body we are outnumbered by other species, ten to one!! “Fortunately, the human body is not a democracy….” At the very least, this is food for considerable reflection on questions of the nature of life, disease, etc.

The volume is organized according to genera and then species. Any and all manner of information from diverse sources is offered up including historical, scientific and pathogenic, as well as provings – old, new and redone, and clinical information on the species under discussion. Available materia medica is given, as well as cases. The discussions are often fascinating, always informative, and as far as possible practical, or at the very least, laying down general lines for future development including the use of historical records and medical sources in compiling suggestive symptom lists. This, incidentally, is exactly what Hahnemann had done in his earliest materia medica compilations, drawing from archaic sources and toxicology to develop a pre-proving image of the medicine in question.

Many bacterial remedies are known to us as common nosodes such as Medhorrinum, Syphillinum, Tuberculinum and various tubercular species, as well as Hydrophobinum, Pertussinum, Hippozaeninum, Malandrinum, Vaccinum, Variolinum, Diperthinum, etc., etc. Many others are less known or unknown, so far, to homeopathy – however many of these are discussed

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 164 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 165 in depth and breadth. Then, of course, there are the Bach Bowel nososes. New remedies such as AIDS, Botulinum, Johneinum are also given a thorough treatment. We would very highly recommend this book as an outstanding reference on bacterial remedies old and new.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 166 :       Homeopathy: An A to Z Home Handbook Alan V. Schmukler US 16.95 Canada 20.95 Paperback 352 pages Llewellyn publishers

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 167 This latest addition to the many home care homeopathy offerings has its own charms, and may well be found to have utility for the busy practitioner seeking a clinically oriented materia medica to have around. Following the usual introductory materials, the next 210 pages are an alphabetical list of conditions, followed by common remedies and their indications. The health conditions discussed are wide ranging. Headings such as Gun shot wounds, Hanta and Ebola virus (among other tropical diseases), Lyme Disease, Lymphangitis, frostbite, electric shocks, gangrene, and a wide variety of emotional states, stand out among the usual range of more common conditions.

Following this there is a special section devoted to specific organ systems and common remedies associated with them. There is also a section devoted to pregnancy and childbirth. The author also offers a chapter of one-paragraph descriptions of the key features of many remedies. There is also a section listing occupations and remedies that might be likely to come in handy. Lastly, he offers a chapter on how to extend the life of your stock of remedies and how to make your own in a pinch.

Plenty of first aid information as well as “homeopathic vaccination” related information is offered. This includes a list of ailments and remedies that may be used preventively for those conditions. Blessed by a beautiful and durable cover, Schmukler’s Ato Z Handbook is a worthy addition to the home-care library and maybe of some value to practitioners as well.

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 168   Radar Homeopathic Software Package # 2 with Encyclopedia Homeopathica - 75 volumes, For PC. Detailed description at: http://www.wholehealthnow.com/homeopathy_software/prices.html Will Include an Antique copy Of 1907 “The Homeopathic Recorder” journal, B & T Publishers, Articles by Boenninghausen And Bannerjee. For Sale for $950, (retails For $1895) Free Shipping. Call: 212-864-5347 or email: [email protected]    ARIZONA Lila Flagler COLORADO 6737 East Camino Principal #C Jody K. Shevins Tucson, AZ, 85715 5353 Manhattan Circle 520-721-8821 Suite 102 [email protected] Boulder, CO 80303 www.drflagler.com (303) 494-3713 Samuel Flagler CONNECTICUT 6737 E. Camino Principal #C Howard Fine Tucson, AZ, 85715 4 Cross Highway 520-721-8821 Westport, CT, 6880 [email protected] 203-221-0216 www.drflagler.com [email protected] Stephen Messer Pearlyn Goodman-Herrick 2140 East Broadway Road 1465 Post Road East Tempe, AZ, 85282 Westport, CT, 6880 480 858 9100 203-256-9091 [email protected] [email protected] CALIFORNIA HAWAII Luc Maes Jeff Baker 9 East Mission St 184 Kapuahi Street Santa Barbara , CA. 93101 Makawao, HI, 96768 805-563-8660 808-572-2229 [email protected] [email protected] http://www.maescenter.com Michael Traub Harry Swope 75-5759 Kaukini Hwy #202 PO Box 12180 Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740 La Crescenta, CA, 91224-0880 808-329-2114 818-541-9172 [email protected] [email protected] Not Accepting Patients

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 169 IDAHO NORTH CAROLINA Brent Mathieu Jennifer Smith 1412 West Washington Street 110 Stockton Street, Suite J Boise, ID, 83702 Statesville, NC 28677 208-338-5590 (704)871-1229 [email protected] [email protected] jennifer-smith-nd.com MAINE Liam McClintock, OREGON Rising Tide Natural Medicine Steve Albin 26 School Street PO Box 4568 Yarmouth, ME 04069 Salem, OR, 97302-8568 phone (207) 865-1222 503-399-1255 e-mail [email protected] [email protected] web site www.mainehomeopath.com John G. Collins 2907 NE Weidler St. MASSACHUSETTS Portland, OR 97232 Amy Rothenberg 503-493-9155 356 Middle Street [email protected] Amherst MA, 1002 860-763-1225 CT Liz Dickey [email protected] PO Box 1942 Eugene, OR 97440 NEBRASKA 541-465-1155 Randall Bradley [email protected] 7447 Farnam Street Durr Elmore Omaha, NE, 68114 PO Box 990 402-391-6714 Mulino, OR, 97042 [email protected] 503-829-3060 [email protected] NEW HAMPSHIRE Kristy Fassler Steven Sandberg-Lewis 500 Market Street suite 1F 1433 SE Tolman ST Portsmouth, NH, 03801 Portland, OR, 97202 603-427-6800 503-255-7355x1515 [email protected] [email protected] Pamela Herring Holly Zapf 46 South Main Street 823 NE Broadway Concord, NH, 3301 Portland, OR 97232 603-228-0407 503-460-0630 x2 [email protected] PENNSYLVANIA NEW MEXICO Gregory Pais Catherine Stauber 926 Washington Blvd. 2002 Hot Springs Blvd Williamsport, PA, 17701-3668 Las Vegas, NM, 87701 570-320-0747 505-454-9525 [email protected] [email protected]

Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 170 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 171 TEXAS Dr.RomySanders ND, FHANP Ian R. Luepker 1209 Parkway 131 Third Ave. North Edmonds, Austin,TX78703-4132 Washington 98020 512-494-0516 425.478.7808 [email protected] www.drugfreeasperger.com [email protected] WASHINGTON Michael Baker Steve Olsen 2661 Bel-Red Road #208 302 Maple Avenue Bellevue, WA, 98008-2200 Snohomish, WA, 98290 425-881-8929 360-568-8002 [email protected] [email protected] www.childhomeopathy.com Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman Christine Bickson 131 Third Ave. North 2901 NE Blakeley St, Suite 3B Edmonds, WA, 98020 Seattle, WA, 98105 425-774-5599 206-459-1446 [email protected] [email protected] http://www.blakeleywellness.com Robert Ullman 131 Third Ave. North Anthony Calpeno Edmonds, WA, 98020 7702 Cirque Drive West 425-774-5599 University Place, WA [email protected] 98467-2022 253-565-2444 WISCONSIN [email protected] Karen Kunkler 2044 Atwood Avenue #207 Krista Heron Madison, WI 53704 5502 34th Avenue NE 608-241-1911 Seattle, WA, 98105 [email protected] 206-522-0488 [email protected] CANADA BRITISH COLUMBIA Stephen King Manon Bolliger 5502 34 th Avenue NE Be Well Now Centre Seattle WA 98105 3345 West 4th Avenue 206-522-0488 Vancouver, BC V6R 1N6 Sheryl Kipnis Lianne South 5502 34 th Avenue NE 2246 Spruce Street Seattle WA 98105 Vancouver, BC, V6R 1C4 206-522-0488 604-733-6811

Barbara Kreemer Neil Tessler 315 1st West 203 2828 152nd St. Seattle, WA, 98119 Surrey, B.C. V4P 1G6 206 281-4282 [email protected] [email protected] 604-542-9759 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 170 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 171 ONTARIO Nadia Bakir 65 Harbour Square #2006 Toronto, ON, M5J 2L4 416-498-1255 x336 [email protected] Julek Meissner ND, DHANP Full Circle Healing 560 Queen Elizabeth Dr, Ottawa 613-234-5151 [email protected] www.homeopathyrocks.com John Millar 187 Sherbrooke Street Peterborough, ON, K9J 2N2 705-743-2008 [email protected] Paul Saunders 211 King Street West Dundas, ON, L9H IV6 416-498-1255x227 [email protected]

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Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 173   Author Guidelines The editor invites the submission of articles, essays, case reports and correspondence. The purpose of Simillimum is to provide high quality educational and clinical information to practitioners. Case reports, interviews, articles and reviews will be printed which strive to illuminate some aspect of classical homeopathic practice (defined here as a study of the totality of symptoms, the use of a single remedy, prescribed according to the Law of Similars) whether in the areas of materia medica, posology, case management, miasms, etc. The main point is that each article should provide a valuable homeopathic learning experience, so discussion must be thorough enough to achieve this goal. Cases will be evaluated on individual merit by a peer review committee of qualified practitioners. The following guidelines are suggested to assist the author in the development of presentation and content.

Case Format A “well taken case” includes a description of the patient, occupation, etc., relevant family medical history, previous types of treatment (allopathic or homeopathic), details of the chief complaints including modalities and causations, mental and general symptoms and all other symptoms of the case, so that a clear picture of the totality can be gained.

Case analysis Case analysis, evaluation of symptoms and repertorization should be included. One of the most important aspects of case presentation is to explain your reasoning for the remedy selection and potency choice so that it is very clear to the reader. General discussion including, insights into difficulties or problems that were encountered, mistakes that were made, or what might have been done differently may also be of value. Acute cases should be written out in a similar manner. Cases using newly proven remedies should include relevant proving data for the benefit of the reader. Cases using remedies without provings or insubstantial provings should provide a discussion of the substance, references to other sources of information on its homeopathic use and the basis for its selection in this case.

Follow-up Appropriate follow-up should include the practitionerʼs assessment, repertorization where utilized and explanation regarding repetition or change of remedy. Chronic cases should be followed for at least one year. Consent and Confidentiality

Please include a written release from the patient (or the parent of a minor Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 174 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 175 patient) and change identifying information as necessary. Contact us if you need a sample release form.

Style Write your case out in narrative form, using quotation marks to indicate direct quotes. Remedy names should be italicized and spelled out completely, with potency number and scale specified, for example, Aurum sulphuratum 200C. Use appropriate references and acknowledgments when necessary for books, periodicals, teachers and computer programs. A summary of the focus of the case or article is helpful, whether as an introduction or a conclusion. Essays or articles critically evaluating ideas or methods of practice must be civil and well referenced as to the basis of the opinion offered. Articles may be edited for minor points of grammar, spelling, or usage. Suggestions for significant revisions will be forwarded to the author for rewriting. We welcome your questions or concerns about shaping your experiences and thoughts into readable form. Please Italicize remedy names and abbreviations, allow two spaces between sentences and supply your article in .doc format.

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Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 174 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 175        The Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians (HANP), a specialty society within the naturopathic profession is affiliated with the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP).

The mission of the HANP is to further excellence and success in the practice homeopathy by naturopathic physicians. This is accomplished by:

The Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians (HANP) is a specialty society within the profession of naturopathic medicine, and is affiliated with the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

Our purpose is to further excellence and success in the practice of homeopathy by naturopathic physicians and provide a vehicle for outreach into both the naturopathic and homeopathic communities.

HANP activities include: * Encouraging the development and improvement of homeopathic curriculum at naturopathic colleges. * Publishing Simillimum, the bi-annual journal of homeopathic practice. Submissions are accepted from all homeopathic practitioners. Periodically offering homeopathic continuing education seminars. * Working with the homeopathic community on issues of common interest. * Offering board certification in classical homeopathy to qualified naturopathic physicians

General Membership Is Open To Everyone. In order to become a general member of the HANP simply fill out the Simillimum subscription form at http://www.hanp.net/sim_subscribe.html Your general membership in the Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians includes a subscription to SIMILLIMUM. The Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians offers specialty certification in the practice of homeopathy to qualified naturopathic physicians.

The DHANP application and examination process occurs in three stages. 1. The first stage is application for DHANP Candidate status. 2. The second stage is to become a Fellow of the HANP. 3. The Submission of five cases and an oral examination are the final requirement to achieve Diploiiiate stittis.Diplomate status.

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Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 176 Winter / Spring 2007 Volume XX / SIMILLIMUM 177   Membership can be easily maintained on our newly re-designed website www.hanp.net We encourage all members to subscribe through the new site. Date:______Name:______Degree:______Company:______Street::______City:______State______Code:______Country______Work Phone:______Home Phone:______Fax:______Email:______

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