[Omeo33] Art 1082 - Homeopathy, 2010, 99 (1), 3-14

[Gino Santini]

The similia principle: Results obtained in a cellular model system
Fred Wiegant and Roeland Van Wijk

This paper describes the results of a research program focused on the  
beneficial effect of low dose stress conditions that were applied  
according to the similia principle to cells previously disturbed by  
more severe stress conditions. In first instance, we discuss criteria  
for research on the similia principle at the cellular level. Then, the  
homologous (‘isopathic’) approach is reviewed, in which the initial  
(high dose) stress used to disturb cellular physiology and the  
subsequent (low dose) stress are identical.
Beneficial effects of low dose stress are described in terms of  
increased cellular survival capacity and at the molecular level as an  
increase in the synthesis of heat shock proteins (hsps). Both  
phenomena reflect a stimulation of the endogenous cellular self- 
recovery capacity. Low dose stress conditions applied in a homologous  
approach stimulate the synthesis of hsps and enhance survival in  
comparison with stressed cells that were incubated in the absence of  
low dose stress conditions. Thirdly, the specificity of the low dose  
stress condition is described where the initial (high dose) stress is  
different in nature from the subsequently applied (low dose) stress;  
the heterologous or ‘heteropathic’ approach.
The results support the similia principle at the cellular level and  
add to understanding of how low dose stress conditions influence the  
regulatory processes underlying self-recovery. In addition, the  
phenomenon of ‘symptom aggravation’ which is also observed at the  
cellular level, is discussed in the context of self-recovery. Finally,  
the difference in efficiency between the homologous and the  
heterologous approach is discussed; a perspective is indicated for  
further research; and the relationship between studies on the similia  
principle and the recently introduced concept of ‘postconditioning  
hormesis’ is emphasized.

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