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PotencyHomeopathic remedies are prepared according to the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States from substances (animal, vegetable, or mineral) which have been reduced to their pure form. Liquids are referred to as tinctures and solids as triturates (powders). These base substances are then diluted to a particular potency (strength). Dilution is accomplished by the use of a dissolving medium (diluent). The diluent is usually alcohol or distilled water. The base substance and diluent are then combined in a specific proportion. X potencies (decimal) are made by taking one part base substance to 9 parts diluent which equals 1X. Continuing, one part of the 1X to 9 parts diluent equals 2X and so on. Similarly, one part of the base substance to 99 parts diluent equals 1C (centesimal). One part of the 1C to 99 parts diluent equals 2C and so on. During the manufacturing process, the base substance is progressively diluted. Between each progressive dilution, the remedy is vigorously shaken. This shaking process is variously known as “dynamization”, “potentization”, or “succession”. This procedure has been shown to be an integral step in the manufacturing process without which there seems to be no therapeutic value of the substances. Selection of a particular potency may vary between individual homeopaths for a particular condition. However, the choice is determined by verified results as described in the Materia Medica or other personal/clinical experience. Dr. Boericke states that his potency recommendations are suggestive only which means that there is some latitude with regard to the specific choice. Dr. Rudolf Steiner gave guidelines for potency selection. There are clinics in Switzerland, Germany, the United States and elsewhere around the world which are based upon his indications. His guidelines are what we use: · Lower potencies, 6X (and lower) for the digestive sphere · Middle potency, 12X for the circulatory and respiratory systems · Higher potencies, 30X (and higher) for the head/nervous system/senses/organs/glands and deep internal processes |
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