Homeopathic remedies are prepared through a process of serial dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking). Over time, different methods of dilution have developed. Two commonly seen labels on homeopathic remedies are CH and CK. Although they may look similar, they refer to two different methods of preparation and potentially to different energetic qualities of the remedy.
1. CH (Centesimal Hahnemannian)
- ‘C’ stands for centesimal, meaning each step is diluted at a ratio of 1:100.
- ‘H’ refers to Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homeopathy, who developed this method.
- In the CH method, at each dilution step:
-One part of the substance is mixed with 99 parts of alcohol or water.
-The mixture is succussed.
-This process is repeated for each successive potency level (e.g., 6CH, 30CH, 200CH).
2. CK (Centesimal Korsakovian)
- ‘K’ stands for Korsakovian, after Russian physician Semyon Korsakov, who proposed a more simplified method.
- In the CK method:
-The same container is used throughout the process.
-After each dilution and succussion, the liquid is emptied, but a thin film remains.
-The next 99 parts of diluent are added directly into the same container, and the process is repeated.
How Does It Affect Treatment?
1. Energetic Action
- Some homeopaths report that CK potencies act faster, especially in acute or mental-emotional cases.
- CH potencies are often considered more grounded, and preferred for longer-acting or chronic conditions.
2. Potency Choice in Practice
- CH is generally preferred when following classical protocols.
- CK may be used in clinical or acute prescribing, where rapid shifts are needed, but not commonly used.
The choice between CH and CK is not just technical; it can subtly influence how the remedy interacts with the body’s energy. While some practitioners stick strictly to CH, others explore CK for its dynamic potential. Ultimately, the remedy choice and potency selection should fit the individual case, not just the label.
CH vs C: Are They the Same?
- ‘C’ stands for centesimal, indicating a dilution ratio of 1:100.
- ‘CH’ stands for Centesimal Hahnemannian, named after Samuel Hahnemann, who introduced the centesimal scale.
So what’s the difference?
| C | Centesimal | Generic abbreviation for the 1:100 dilution scale |
| CH | Centesimal Hahnemannian | Specifies that the dilution followed Hahnemann’s original method |
In real-world usage:
- 30C and 30CH refer to the same level of dilution and potency, and can generally be used interchangeably.
- The ‘H’ is often dropped or included depending on the country or pharmacy. For example:
-In France and Italy, CH is standard (e.g., Boiron uses CH).
-In India and the U.S., C is more commonly used (e.g., 30C, 200C).
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