What is Potency?

Potency refers to the strength of the homeopathic medicine.  The latin name of the homeopathic ingredient on the label is followed by a number and letter (eg. Pulsatilla nigrans 30X.)  In this example, the potency of the homeopathic medicine is considered to be 30X.

Potency Strength

The higher the number, the stronger the potency.  Potencies up to 30, are generally considered low potency, up to 1000 are generally considered medium potency and above 1000 are considered high potency.  The latin letter “M” is used to designate 1000 (eg. Pulsatila nigrans 1M).

Over the counter homeopathic products (OTC) are generally limited to low potencies.  Prescription homeopathics can use low, medium or high potencies.

Potency Scales

Homeopathic medicines are generally prepared on one of two scales: a decimal scale (X) or, a centesimal scale (C).  Combination homeopathic products more often contain “X” potencies, whereas single homeopathic medicines more often contain “C” potencies.  These scales refer to the method of preparation in the manufacturing process.  “X” potencies are generally considered lower potencies than “C” potencies.  Occasionally you will see the letter “D” used instead of the letter “X”.  These are used interchangeably.

In addition, the LM potency scale is sometimes used for prescription homeopathics. LM potencies are generally considered higher potency than the corresponding X or C potencies.

Korsakovian vs Hahnemannian Potencies

Occasionally you may see the designation “H’ or “K” as part of the name of the homeopathic ingredient (eg. Pulsatilla nigrans 200CH or Pulsatilla nigrans 200CK).  These refer to differing manufacturing methods: “H” referring to Hahnemannian method and “K” referring to the Korsakovian method.  Hahnemannian potencies are used more often in the United States and Korsakovian potencies more often in Europe. If no letter is present, the homeopathic medicine is understood to use the Hahnemannian method.

Frequency of Dose

Frequency of dosing is dependent on the potencies of the ingredients.  Lower potencies are often repeated more frequently and higher potencies, less frequently.

The lower the potency, the more frequently the medicine typically needs to be re-administered.  Also in acute or crisis situations, dosing can be more frequent.

Dosage frequency varies considerably and can be found on the label.  It is important to follow the dosing instructions on the label, unless directed otherwise by your healthcare practitioner.

Amount of Dose

The amount of the dose is dependent on the route of administration.  Dosage amount (unit dose) varies considerably and can be found on the label.  It is important to follow the dosing amount instructions on the label, unless directed otherwise by your healthcare practitioner.

Dosing in Sub-Populations

Dosing may vary depending on the sub-population targeted (eg. children or elderly).  It is important to follow the dosing amount instructions on the label for the sub-population, unless directed otherwise by your healthcare practitioner.

Sensitive patients can reduce the frequency of the dose or amount of the dose, for OTC products.  They should follow the dosing instructions of their healthcare practitioner for prescription products.