Nanoparticles in high-potency homeopathic remedies – new research findings
For years, there has been debate over whether homeopathic medicines – even in the highest dilutions – retain any material basis. A recent study by Michel van Wassenhoven and colleagues now offers compelling evidence: using a method called nanoparticle tracking analysis, researchers detected tiny particles in high-potency homeopathic remedies – even when, according to conventional calculations, the dilution should no longer contain any molecules of the original substance.
What was investigated?
The scientists prepared six different medicines in accordance with the regulations of the European Pharmacopoeia – including soluble substances such as Gelsemium and Potassium muriaticum, as well as insoluble substances such as copper, silver, and Silicea. They examined not only the actual high potencies but also simple dilutions and control solutions stored in both glass and PET containers.
The most important findings
- Detection of nanoparticles: Particles ranging from about 20 to 400 nanometres in size – millions of times smaller than a millimetre – were detected in all potentised samples.
- Special properties: The size and number of particles varied depending on the starting material and the degree of potentisation. Characteristic differences persisted even beyond the threshold defined by Avogadro’s number.
- Influence of external factors: The container material (glass or plastic) and possible substances from the surrounding air also affected the composition of the particles.
Significance for homeopathy
The results demonstrate that homeopathic potencies are more than just diluted water. Potentisation generates nanoscale structures whose exact nature is not yet fully understood. They are believed to consist of a mixture of nanobubbles and tiny particles originating from the starting substance, the container material, and the environment. These structures may play a key role in the effect of homeopathic remedies – and provide researchers with a new, tangible point of departure.
Source: van Wassenhoven M, Goyens M, Dorfman P, Devos P, Demangeat JL. Characterisation of Aqueous Ultra-high Homeopathic Potencies: Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis. Homeopathy. 2024. Available under: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov