Homeopathy is based on the law of similars, “like cures like.”  Although the concept was written about by Hippocrates in 400 BC (“Through the like, disease is produced and through the application of the like, it is cured”), it was Samuel Hahnemann who first tested this principle which forms the basis of the homeopathic system of medicine.
 
Here’s an example of how the law of similars works in an acute condition:  your child develops a sudden high fever, flushed face, rapid heartbeat and dilated pupils.  The homeopathic physician finds a substance in nature that has produced these same symptoms under scientifically controlled conditions in a healthy person.  A remedy prepared from that substance has been diluted and succussed (shaken) until there is only an infinitesimal amount of original matter remaining.  Yet soon after the remedy is given, your child’s fever drops to normal and begins to quickly feel better. 
 
Although this is a simplistic example of the law of similars, it also applies to chronic conditions where symptoms may be more subtle and may have been present for many years. 
 
Homeopaths do not consider disease an invading force against the body,  but  a disharmony in the vital force.  The manifestations of this “dis-ease” vary according to each individual’s predisposition and weaknesses.  Therefore, a remedy must be individually prescribed in every case and not selected according to the name of the condition.  In conventional  medicine, most ear infections will receive the same prescription just as most arthritis cases will follow a similar course of treatment.  But since homeopathic patients are treated for their totality of symptoms, including their mental and emotional outlook, the same medical diagnosis in a variety of people will call for just as many different remedy prescriptions. 
 
Although homeopathic remedies may be prepared from plants, animals or minerals, there is no relationship between traditional herbalism and homeopathy.  Homeopathy is based upon strict and exacting scientific method.  Remedies are prepared by following precise rules and procedures and are prescribed according to the law of similars.  Most importantly, homeopathic medicines are safe, nontoxic and without side effects.