Introduction:
- This
chapter explains how much medicine (dose) should be given, how
often, and in what potency.
- In
homoeopathy, the right dose is as important as the right remedy.
- The goal
is to stimulate the vital force gently, not to overload it.
1. What is “The Dose”?
- In
homoeopathy, dose doesn’t mean the amount in milligrams.
- It refers
to:
- The size
of the dose (number of pills/drops)
- The potency
used (e.g., 6C, 30C, 200C)
- The frequency
of repetition
Mnemonic: S-P-F
- Size
- Potency
- Frequency
2. Factors That Affect the Dose
- Susceptibility
of the patient
– Highly sensitive = lower potency & fewer doses
– Low sensitivity = higher potency may be needed - Nature of
the disease
– Acute disease = more frequent dosing
– Chronic disease = less frequent dosing - Remedy
type
– Deep-acting remedies need less repetition - Vitality
of the patient
– Weak patients = low potency & careful dosing
3. Single Dose vs Repeated Dose
Single Dose
- One dose
and wait for reaction
- Used in chronic
cases with good vitality
- Helps
observe the remedy reaction clearly
Repeated Dose
- Given in acute
cases or when symptoms return
- Only
repeated when symptoms relapse or stop improving
Never repeat unnecessarily – it may cause aggravation or
spoil the case.
4. High Potency vs Low Potency
|
Potency Type |
Use When... |
Example |
|
High |
Clear totality, good vitality, mental symptoms |
200C, 1M |
|
Low |
Poor vitality, local symptoms, hypersensitivity |
6C, 12C |
Mnemonic: H-L-M
- High =
Healthy vitality
- Low = Low
strength
- Mind =
Needs high potency
5. Dangers of Wrong Dosing
- Too
frequent doses can aggravate symptoms
- High
potencies in weak patients can overstimulate vital force
- Repeating
the dose after cure starts can interrupt healing
Always follow the rule: Minimum dose, maximum effect
Chart Summary: Dosing Guide
|
Situation |
Potency |
Dose Type |
Repetition |
|
Acute case |
30C or 200C |
Repeated |
Every few hours (if needed) |
|
Chronic strong case |
200C or 1M |
Single |
Once, then wait |
|
Weak patient |
6C or 12C |
Careful, Single |
Repeat only when needed |
Word Meanings
|
Word / Phrase |
Meaning |
|
Dose |
Quantity, potency, and frequency of the medicine |
|
Potency |
Strength of a medicine (e.g., 6C, 30C, 200C, 1M) |
|
Susceptibility |
Sensitivity or reaction level of the patient to medicines |
|
Single Dose |
Giving one dose and waiting for reaction |
|
Vital Force |
The dynamic life energy that maintains health |
|
Unprejudiced Observer |
A doctor who observes remedy response without bias |
|
Aggravation |
Temporary worsening of symptoms after taking medicine |
|
Disease per se |
The actual disease, not just its visible symptoms |
Conclusion:
In homoeopathy, the dose must be chosen carefully, based on the patient’s sensitivity, disease type, and remedy nature. The aim is to stimulate the vital force gently without causing harm. By applying the principle of the minimum dose, homoeopaths can ensure safe and effective healing.
