Episode 69: Homeopathic Terms Explained with Anjum Rahmatulla

In this episode of the Homeopathy 247 podcast, host Mary Greensmith is joined by homeopath Anjum Rahmatulla for an insightful conversation about the language of homeopathy. They explore common terms, what they really mean, and how important it is to understand the philosophy behind homeopathic treatment.

What Does “Homeopathy” Mean?

Mary and Anjum begin by explaining the word homeopathy. It comes from the Greek words for “similar” (homoios) and “suffering” (pathos), meaning like treats like. In practice, this means that a substance that causes certain symptoms in a healthy person can be used in a highly diluted form to treat those same symptoms in someone who is unwell. Examples like onions (causing watery eyes) or coffee (for restlessness) show how natural substances can become healing remedies.

Classical vs Practical Homeopathy

The conversation moves on to the idea of classical homeopathy. In classical practice, one remedy is given at a time, in the smallest dose needed, and then carefully observed. This contrasts with practical homeopathy, where multiple remedies might be used at once, often taught in shorter training courses like those for naturopaths. Classical training typically takes several years and involves a much deeper study of case-taking and remedy selection.

Complementary, Not Alternative

A key point Anjum and Mary emphasize is that homeopathy is complementary medicine, not necessarily an “alternative.” Homeopathy can safely be used alongside mainstream treatments without interfering with medications. It’s important, they note, for patients to continue regular check-ups with their doctors, especially when dealing with conditions like high blood pressure.

Vital Force and Energetic Medicine

One of the deeper philosophical ideas discussed is the concept of vital force — the invisible energy that keeps us alive. Homeopathy, as an energetic medicine, works by stimulating the body’s own healing power without relying on physical molecules. Remedies are created through processes called dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking), making them energetic rather than chemical medicines.

Provings and Aggravations

Anjum explains provings, the process where healthy volunteers take a remedy and record every physical, emotional, and mental change they experience. This information forms the foundation of homeopathic remedy knowledge. They also discuss aggravations, which is when symptoms temporarily worsen before real improvement happens — often seen as a positive healing sign.

Constitutional Remedies

Another important concept is the constitutional remedy — a remedy chosen not just for a current illness but for a person’s overall health history, emotional state, and inherited tendencies. This type of prescribing aims to strengthen the person’s core health and resilience over time, rather than just treating immediate symptoms.

Visit Anjum’s website: https://www.aaraam-homeopathy.co.uk/

Visit Mary’s website: https://marygreensmith.com/