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Expanding Self Care with Singles Single remedies are derived from a single source– primarily plant, mineral or chemical. They are the essence of homeopathy and therefore engage all the principles and concepts that make homeopathy a comprehensive system of medicine. Our multifaceted single remedies address a wide array of health issues, and are sold only in safe potencies. 2. So Many Symptoms 1. Law of Similars– Like Cured By Like Coffee for jittery nerves? Homeopathy's principle of similars makes it fascinating, highly consistent and essentially limitless. In essence it means that our bodies can respond to extremely safe versions of what otherwise could cause symptoms similar to those we may be experiencing. In its response to the 'mirror image' of its own problems, the body stimulates and streamlines its ability to heal itself. If taken in large quantities (not homeopathic doses) over time, coffee, salt, most chemicals and even herbs have proven they will impact us mentally, emotionally and physically. When you apply the law of similars, it explains why most remedy descriptions involve so many symptoms and characteristics. Finding the remedy that fits your particular pattern of symptoms can be a challenge, but if it takes a few tries, don't worry, when homeopathically processed, there's no potential for harm. An Arnica Example Folklore claims that knowledge of Arnica's ability to reduce trauma and heal injuries came from observing mountain goats who scrambled to eat it if they fell or tripped. However, too much of a good thing gave it a bad reputation, too. Homeopathy's founder, Samuel Hahnemann, observed that in very large doses, the Arnica plant has the ability to 'disorganize tissues' causing bleeding, bruising, etc., as if due to injury. Applying homeopathy's Law of Similars, like cures like, he realized he had found the perfect remedy for injuries and muscle strain– that which can disorganize tissues, can help the body organize tissues after injuries to minimize bruising, bleeding and swelling and to stimulate healing. In homeopathy's finely processed dilutions, Arnica is very safe and has become the most tested and loved homeopathic single remedy. An Aconite Example How can one remedy treat symptoms of colds, headaches, fevers and effects of emotional trauma? Just as its fast acting toxin, Aconitine, can shock the body and alter the chemistry of membranes, nerves and electricity, so can Aconite (the fast acting, but safe, remedy it gives us) calm and reset the effects of a wide variety of shocks to the system. When stress makes us vulnerable and anxious, the slightest shocks become systemic: a cold wind can set off a cold; a slight threat can set off a sudden fever or burning headache; a fear or worry can make us sleepless; and anger, accidents or frights can induce shock or emotional pique. In short, when the body is overly reactive, Aconite can help it get its signals straight and soothe the chemistry of fear. FYI, Restless fear for the worst is the key to choosing Aconite for anything. 27