Early Experiments and Publications on Homeopathy
Hahnemann's 1796 essay, “Essay on a New Principle” for Ascertaining the Curative Power of Drugs, marked homeopathy's formal birth. He began testing substances on himself and volunteers, documenting symptom profiles—a precursor to modern drug provings. Though his major work, “The Organon of the Healing Art” (1810), postdates the 18th century, its foundations were laid in this fertile period.
Reception and Challenges of Homeopathy - Homeopathy's emergence faced skepticism. The medical establishment, entrenched in traditional practices, questioned its scientific basis. Yet, its appeal grew among patients weary of invasive treatments. Hahnemann’s emphasis on individualized care and minimal doses contrasted sharply with the one-size-fits-all approach of contemporaries.
Legacy and Transition of Homeopathy - While homeopathy remained nascent in the 18th century, its principles set the stage for 19th-century expansion. Hahnemann’s ideas, aligned with Enlightenment ideals of observation and experimentation, offered a systematic yet controversial alternative. By the century’s end, homeopathy began its journey from a radical theory to a global movement.