The term “individualization” originates from the Latin word “individuas,” signifying indivisibility or a single unit. Individualization involves an artistic approach to comprehending how a unit reacts compared to other group members, focusing on its distinct and characteristic features.
The substitution of one remedy for another cannot be thought of or entertained in homeopathy. The homeopathic physician must individualize, he must discriminate. Take for instance 2 remedies Secale and Arsenicum, they are both chilly, but the patient wants all covers off and wants the cold air in Secale and he wants all the things hot in Arsenicum. The mental picture of the two remedies helps in distinguishing these two. Without the generals of a case, no man can practice homeopathy. Without generals, no man can individualize and see distinctions.
In Homeopathy, thorough individualization and discernment are crucial. Substituting one remedy for another is unacceptable. The homoeopathic physician must discriminate, identifying similarities and differences in widely dissimilar cases. This involves understanding the generals of a case, ruling out one remedy and ruling in another based on strong generals.
The art of applying the Materia Medica relies on individualization, where a remedy is chosen based on its similarity to the patient’s constitution rather than just specific symptoms. This eliminates the notion of substitution, emphasizing the need for a remedy that is most similar to the patient.
Hahnemann’s statements in paragraphs 118, 122, and 144 highlight the importance of using well-known medicines, preserving their purity, and avoiding conjecture in Materia Medica. The need for careful research and pure observations in building the Materia Medica is emphasized.
According to the Aphorism 118, Dr Hahnemann states that “Every medicine exhibits peculiar action on the human frame, which are not produced in exactly same manner by any other medicinal substance of a different kind”. The homeopathic materia medica contains a group of symptoms produced by each drug in its unique nature. We call this a drug picture of that drug. No drug picture in materia medica is the same, each one is different from the other.
Aphorism 122 To ensure the certainty of the medical art and the well-being of future generations, it is crucial to use only well-known medicines. Purity is paramount, and medicines, as proven, should be preserved in their unmodified state, maintaining their full energy. It is essential to use the same substances, as closely as possible, that were originally proved.
It is advised to procure the substances that were originally proved. Attention should be given to the history and details of the medicine, including the process of potentization and the specifics of high potencies.
Paragraph 145 underscores the necessity of being acquainted with the pure action of numerous medicines to find homoeopathic remedies for the various forms of disease. While fully developed diseases usually have their simillimum in the Materia Medica, mixed cases may pose challenges.
In essence, Homeopathy demands a deep understanding of individualization, reliance on well-known medicines, and meticulous research in building and applying the Materia Medica. The art lies in distinguishing the unique needs of each patient and selecting remedies based on their similarity to the patient’s constitution.
