Introduction
Homeopathic case taking is the systematic collection and recording of the patient’s symptoms for the purpose of finding the most similar remedy. The quality of the case taking determines the accuracy of the prescription.
The Structure of Case Taking
The case taking begins with the chief complaint and its detailed modalities (what makes it better or worse). It progresses to the past medical history, family history, personal history, and the mental and emotional state. The generals (reactions to temperature, weather, food, sleep) are essential for the constitutional prescription.
Characteristic Symptoms
The characteristic symptoms — those that are peculiar, strange, rare, and particular to the patient — are the most important for the selection of the remedy.
Conclusion
Homeopathic case taking is the art and science of collecting the patient’s symptom picture, essential for finding the most similar remedy.