The Individualised Approach in Homeopathy
One of the key characteristics of homeopathy that distinguishes it from conventional medical approaches is its strongly emphasised individualised approach to the patient, based on the principles of individualisation and similarity. Individualised homeopathy is founded on the assumption that each person represents a unique whole of physical, emotional, and mental characteristics. Unlike standardised therapeutic protocols applied based on nosological classification of diseases, i.e. diagnostic categories, this approach implies a therapy that is as unique as the patient themselves [1,2].
The Totality of the Patient in Homeopathy
In homeopathic practice, therapeutic selection is not based solely on the clinical picture of the disease, but on the overall profile of the patient. This includes specific symptoms and the way they manifest, as well as broader aspects such as temperament, reactions to stress, lifestyle habits, and individual sensitivities. It is precisely in this expanded understanding of health that many patients recognise the value of an approach that does not reduce their experience to a diagnosis but seeks to understand it in its entirety. In this context, the principle of similarity (similia similibus curentur) serves as the fundamental criterion for remedy selection, while the principle of individualisation determines its application in each individual case [2,3].
Foundations in the Organon
The fundamental principle of individualisation in homeopathy derives from the original teachings of Samuel Hahnemann, particularly in his work Organon der Heilkunst, where it is emphasised that the physician must clearly recognise in each individual case “what is to be cured in the disease” and relate it to “what is curative in the medicine” [3]. In this sense, disease is not viewed as an abstract diagnostic category, but as a unique set of symptoms forming the “totality of the disease” in a particular individual [2].
The Principle of Similarity in Homeopathy
The principle of similarity is expressed through the fundamental premise of homeopathy that “like cures like” (similia similibus curentur), as described in the Organon [1]. This formulation represents the basis for understanding the therapeutic action of the homeopathic remedy, namely the idea that a similar stimulus may trigger the organism to regulate its own imbalance.
Furthermore, it is emphasised that each medicinal substance has a specific and unique effect on the human organism, distinct from all others, which enables the precise application of the principle of similarity on an individual level. As Hahnemann states in §118 of the Organon:“Each medicine exhibits particular effects on the human organism, which no other medicinal substance of a different kind produces in exactly the same manner” [4]. In the same paragraph, he also cites A. von Haller: “In these very plants, whose external forms we have long known, there lies an immeasurable variety of powers; their inner essence, and what they contain of higher significance, we have not yet fully understood” [4].
Individualisation in Practice
Accordingly, classical schools of homeopathy define individualisation as a methodological process in which therapy is selected based on the totality of symptoms and the unique expression of disease in each patient. Each case is considered unique, as every individual in health and disease exhibits their own specific characteristics that require a distinct approach [5]. This level of precision and attention to individual differences represents one of the fundamental values of homeopathic practice.
Individualisation also implies that two patients with the same diagnosis may receive completely different remedies, precisely due to differences in symptom expression. For individuals who may have already tried various approaches without satisfactory results, this way of thinking can open a new perspective—one in which the solution is sought in alignment with their specific experience, rather than solely with the name of the disease.
Research
In the field of clinical research, individualised homeopathy occupies a particular position. The development of scientific knowledge in this area shows an interesting evolution of approaches and interpretation of results. An early meta-analysis conducted by K. Linde and colleagues in 1997 indicated that the effects of homeopathy are not entirely explained by the placebo effect [6], thereby opening the way for further research. In subsequent decades, the focus has gradually shifted toward more precise methodological evaluation and differentiation between individualised and non-individualised approaches. More recent studies, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses by R.T. Mathie (2014) and H.J. Hamre (2023), aim to integrate a larger number of studies under stricter quality criteria, increasingly highlighting the importance of individualisation as a potentially key factor in therapeutic effect [7][8].
Clinical Experience
The results of contemporary research can be seen as a form of “confirmation” within the modern scientific context of accumulated clinical experience that has developed over more than two centuries. Homeopathy is based on principles rooted in natural laws and can, in this sense, be regarded as a lasting and widely distributed therapeutic approach present across different cultures, civilisations, and healthcare systems. Through the continuous application of pathogenetic trials of medicinal substances on healthy individuals, along with the principles of similarity, dynamization, and individualisation, generations of physicians and practitioners have developed an extensive empirical body of knowledge based on long-term patient observation and reproducibility of clinical findings. For many people, this combination of long-standing experience and an individualised approach represents an important reason for exploring this method.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the individualised approach represents not only a theoretical concept, but also a practical paradigm that shapes the daily work of homeopaths. The focus on the whole person—rather than solely on the diagnosis—makes this approach particularly relevant for individuals seeking deeper and more lasting solutions for establishing and maintaining their health, as well as individually tailored care. In practice, this often means more time devoted to consultation, attentive listening, and therapy aligned with personal needs.
Is This Approach Aligned with Your Needs?
If you recognise yourself in this approach and would like to explore how it could be applied in your specific case, an informational consultation can provide clearer insight into the available possibilities.
References
- Hahnemann S. (1922) Organon of Medicine, 6th ed., translated by W. Boericke. §25.
- Hahnemann S. (1922) Organon of Medicine, 6th ed., translated by W. Boericke §6–7
- Hahnemann S. (1922) Organon of Medicine, 6th ed., translated by W. Boericke §3
- Hahnemann S. (1922) Organon of Medicine, 6th ed., translated by W. Boericke §118
- Teixeira MZ. Scientific Evidence for Homeopathy (2023)
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10413079/ - Linde K. et al. The Lancet (1997)
https://www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(97)02293-9/fulltext - Mathie RT et al. Systematic reviews of individualised homeopathy trials (2014)
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/2046-4053-3-142 - Hamre HJ et al. Systematic review of meta-analyses (2023)
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13643-023-02313-2
