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Impossible Cure

Impossible Cure

The Promise of Homeopathy
by Amy L. Lansky 2003 320 pages
4.28
100+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Homeopathy: A Revolutionary Approach to Healing

"Many of the greatest advances in science and medicine begin as observations that don't fit in. Homeopathy—the 'impossible cure'—is just that sort of challenge."

A Different Kind of Medicine. Homeopathy, unlike conventional medicine, is a complete system of medicine based on the principle of "like cures like." It views the body as an integrated whole, not a collection of separate parts, and seeks to stimulate the body's own healing abilities rather than suppressing symptoms. This approach challenges the mechanistic view of the body and offers a path to true cure, not just symptom management.

Forgotten History, Emerging Future. Homeopathy was once a prominent medical system in the 19th century, with numerous medical schools and hospitals in the United States. However, it was suppressed by the allopathic establishment and nearly forgotten. Today, it is experiencing a resurgence as people seek alternatives to conventional medicine's limitations in treating chronic disease.

  • Widely practiced in Europe, India, and Latin America
  • Integrated into national healthcare systems of many countries
  • Supported by hundreds of double-blind, placebo-controlled studies

A Black Sheep Medicine. Homeopathy is often misunderstood and dismissed by conventional medicine due to its use of highly diluted remedies. However, its effectiveness is increasingly being recognized by medical researchers, and its unique approach to healing offers hope for those seeking true cures.

2. The Law of Similars: Like Cures Like

"The physician's highest and only calling is to make the sick healthy, to cure, as it is called."

Hahnemann's Discovery. Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homeopathy, was a physician who became disillusioned with the harmful medical practices of his time. Through his experiments, he discovered the Law of Similars, which states that a substance that can cause symptoms in a healthy person can cure similar symptoms in a sick person.

  • Hahnemann's experiments with cinchona bark led to this discovery
  • The word "homeopathy" literally means "similar suffering"
  • This principle is the foundation of homeopathic practice

Drug Provings. To understand the effects of substances, Hahnemann developed the method of "provings," where healthy individuals take small doses of a substance and record their symptoms. This process allows homeopaths to identify the unique symptom patterns associated with each remedy.

  • Provings are conducted on healthy humans, not animals
  • They record physical, mental, and emotional symptoms
  • This information is compiled into a materia medica

Empirical Medicine. Homeopathy is an empirical medicine, based on observation and experimentation rather than theoretical constructs. It is a system of therapeutics that is defined by the Law of Similars, and its methods have remained consistent for two hundred years.

3. Testimony to Cure: Real Stories, Real Results

"In the hands of a true Master, homeopathy holds the answer for the vast majority of chronic disease sufferers ... It may seem too good to be true, but humankind's centuries of searching for a non-toxic, truly curative medicine have finally come to completion in the homeopathic system."

Personal Experiences. The author's son was cured of autism with homeopathy, a condition considered incurable by conventional medicine. This experience led the author to study and advocate for homeopathy, and to share her family's story and the stories of others.

  • The author's son's cure was a "miraculous" event
  • Other family members and friends have also experienced cures
  • These stories illustrate the power of homeopathy in practice

Beyond the Placebo Effect. Skeptics often attribute homeopathy's effectiveness to the placebo effect. However, the author argues that the placebo effect cannot explain the consistent and profound cures seen in homeopathy, especially in cases of chronic disease, infants, and animals.

  • The placebo effect cannot explain the 1918 flu epidemic results
  • It cannot explain why homeopaths must try several remedies before finding the right one
  • The placebo effect is a powerful healing force, but homeopathy is more than that

A Call for Open-Mindedness. The author encourages readers to consider the possibility that homeopathy is a valid and effective form of medicine, despite its controversial nature. She urges people to look beyond the limitations of conventional medicine and explore the potential of this alternative approach.

4. Understanding Disease and Cure: Beyond the Physical

"The physician's calling is not to concoct so-called systems from empty conceits and hypotheses ... it is not to make countless attempts at explanation regarding disease appearances and their proximate cause ... it is to really help and to cure."

The Body as a Dynamic System. Homeopathy views the body as a dynamic, self-healing system, not a machine. Symptoms are seen as expressions of the body's attempt to restore balance, not as enemies to be suppressed.

  • The body is an integrated unit, not a collection of parts
  • Symptoms are our friends, not our enemies
  • The body is intrinsically self-healing

Cure vs. Suppression. Homeopathy aims to cure disease by addressing its root cause, while allopathy often focuses on suppressing symptoms. Suppressive treatments can lead to deeper, more intractable forms of disease over time.

  • Suppression can lead to chronic disease
  • Homeopathy seeks to remove the disease, not just its symptoms
  • The Law of Cure describes how true healing occurs

Susceptibility and Individuality. Each person is unique, and their susceptibility to disease is influenced by their individual history, environment, and constitution. Homeopathy recognizes this individuality and seeks to treat the whole person, not just their symptoms.

  • Susceptibility is individual
  • Each person expresses disease in their own way
  • Homeopathy is a highly individualized form of treatment

5. Symptom Patterns: Individuality in Illness

"We [homeopaths] assay the expression of an energy field of the illness, unknown per se, but found and manifesting itself in the way it arranges the symptoms."

Psychosomatic Patterns. Homeopathy recognizes that physical, mental, and emotional symptoms are interconnected and form a unique pattern for each individual. This pattern is the key to finding the correct homeopathic remedy.

  • Symptoms are not isolated events
  • They reflect the whole person
  • Homeopaths look for unique symptom patterns

Matching Symptom Patterns. Homeopathic remedies are chosen based on their ability to produce similar symptom patterns in healthy individuals. This matching process is highly individualized and requires a deep understanding of the patient's unique experience of illness.

  • The center of the case is the most important aspect
  • Modalities and concomitants are key to finding the right remedy
  • Causation and situation are also important factors

Humanity Reflected in Nature. Homeopathic remedies are derived from natural sources, including plants, animals, and minerals. The symptom patterns of these remedies often reflect the characteristics and symbolism of their source materials.

  • The doctrine of signatures links remedies to their source
  • Animal patterns, plant patterns, and mineral patterns are all unique
  • Symbolism and structure are also important

6. The Evolution of Homeopathic Practice: From Discovery to Refinement

"The appearance of the Organon was the signal for the actual breaking out of the war against Hahnemann."

Hahnemann's Refinements. After discovering the Law of Similars, Hahnemann continued to refine his methods, developing the process of potentization, which involves diluting and succussing remedies to create ultradilute solutions.

  • Potentization creates ultradilute remedies
  • The centesimal, decimal, and LM potencies were developed
  • Remedy administration was also refined

The Single Remedy. Hahnemann also emphasized the importance of using only one remedy at a time, believing that this approach allows for a clearer understanding of the remedy's effects.

  • One remedy at a time is the ideal
  • Related applications and methods were developed
  • Loosely related methods and modalities also emerged

A Growing Practice. Over time, homeopathy spread throughout Europe and the United States, and practitioners developed their own unique approaches to the practice. Today, homeopathy is a diverse and evolving field, with many different schools of thought and methods of treatment.

7. Science and Skepticism: Exploring the Evidence

"It is rather amusing to me to watch the trends of therapy proposed by a discipline that, at any point, insists so vociferously on its omniscience."

The Challenge of Proof. Homeopathy is often criticized for lacking scientific evidence, but this criticism is based on a misunderstanding of the nature of homeopathic treatment. The randomized placebo-controlled trial, while useful for testing allopathic drugs, is not always the most appropriate method for evaluating homeopathy.

  • The randomized placebo-controlled trial is not the only proof of effectiveness
  • Homeopathy does work, and it works well
  • Meta-analysis supports homeopathy's efficacy

Homeopathic Models of Remedy Action. While the exact mechanism of action of homeopathic remedies is still unknown, several models have been proposed, including the concept of the vital force, the idea of energetic resonance, and the notion of information transfer.

  • Homeopathic models of remedy action are based on the vital force
  • They also include energetic and informational models
  • These models are still being explored

Putting it All Together. Despite the skepticism of some, the evidence for homeopathy's effectiveness is growing. By combining scientific research with clinical experience, we can gain a deeper understanding of this unique and powerful system of medicine.

8. The Homeopathic Experience: What to Expect

"Part of the confusion seems to be that it is all of these things at the same time. It is hard to categorize into convenient boxes. It is medicine and healing, incorporating mind, body, and soul, physical disease and mental conditioning, fusing energy and matter into an inseparable whole."

Selecting a Homeopath. Finding a qualified homeopath is essential for successful treatment. Look for practitioners who are certified by reputable organizations and who have a strong understanding of classical homeopathic principles.

  • Look for a certified homeopath
  • Prepare for your first visit
  • The interview is a key part of the process

The Interview Process. The initial homeopathic interview is a detailed exploration of your physical, mental, and emotional symptoms. Be prepared to discuss your medical history, lifestyle, and personal experiences.

  • Case analysis tools are used to understand your symptoms
  • Repertorization helps to select the right remedy
  • Taking your remedy is a key part of the process

The Healing Journey. Homeopathic treatment is a process, not a quick fix. Be patient and persistent, and work closely with your homeopath to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed.

  • Remedy response is a key indicator of progress
  • Follow-up visits are important
  • Mixing homeopathy with other treatments requires careful consideration

9. Cure is Possible: Miracles Happen

"Homeopathy is the emerging therapy that offers hope for truly curing chronic disease in a profound way."

Reversing Chronic Disease. Homeopathy has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of chronic diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and other conditions that are often considered incurable by conventional medicine.

  • Alzheimer's disease can be reversed
  • Cancer cures and expulsion of tumors have been reported
  • Homeopathy can also help with serious acute conditions

Beyond Physical Ailments. Homeopathy can also be used to treat emotional and behavioral problems, as well as to improve overall well-being.

  • Homeopathy can help our animal companions
  • It can also fight starvation and disease in the Third World
  • Miracles happen in the emotional and behavioral realm

A Call for Hope. The author shares numerous stories of remarkable cures, demonstrating the potential of homeopathy to transform lives and offer hope for those who have been told that their conditions are incurable.

10. The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

"Although this book discusses the homeopathic method of treatment, including stories of cure using various remedies, it is intended only as a general introduction to homeopathy."

Licensure and Certification. The legal status of homeopathy in the United States is complex and often restrictive. There is a need for greater recognition and acceptance of homeopathy as a legitimate medical art.

  • Licensure versus certification is a key issue
  • The fight for legal practice continues
  • New hope lies in the legalization of unlicensed therapies

Training and Access. There is a need for more homeopathic training programs and greater access to homeopathic remedies. Insurance coverage for homeopathic treatment is also lacking.

  • Homeopathic training needs to be improved
  • Other issues include insurance, access to remedies, and recognition
  • Our right to health freedom must be protected

A Call to Action. The author calls for a rethinking of conventional medical practices and a greater appreciation for the potential of homeopathy. She urges readers to explore this unique and powerful system of medicine and to advocate for its wider acceptance.

Last updated:

Review Summary

4.28 out of 5
Average of 100+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

Impossible Cure receives mostly positive reviews, with readers praising its clear explanation of homeopathy, scientific approach, and personal anecdotes. Many find it informative and eye-opening, appreciating the author's logical arguments and comprehensive coverage of the topic. Some readers express mixed feelings about the book's stance on vaccines and religious references. Critics argue that the writing can be repetitive and occasionally veers into "woo woo" territory. Overall, the book is considered a valuable introduction to homeopathy for beginners and those seeking alternative treatments.

Your rating:

About the Author

Amy L. Lansky is a computer scientist turned homeopathy advocate. After her son's autism was cured through homeopathy, she shifted her focus to studying and promoting this alternative medicine. Lansky authored "Impossible Cure: The Promise of Homeopathy," a bestselling book on the subject. She has studied homeopathy extensively, served on the board of the National Center for Homeopathy, and helped found the California Health Freedom Coalition. Lansky hosts a monthly radio show on homeopathy and provides guidance to parents through her website. In 2011, she published "Active Consciousness: Awakening the Power Within," exploring consciousness, spirituality, and meditation.

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