Correct Use of the Repertory: Reference Tool or Systemati...

An overview:

In the present era, it has become common practice for homeopathic doctors to rely heavily on the repertory for prescribing medicines. The artistic and individualized approach to prescription seems to have been lost along the way. Today, the repertory is often treated as the prime—and sometimes the only—tool for selecting a remedy. This approach is highly formal and mechanical, often applied without a deeper understanding of the background and philosophy of the repertory itself. The process typically involves collecting all the patient’s symptoms, entering them into a computerized repertory, and then selecting the medicine that covers the greatest number of symptoms and ranks highest. This medicine is then considered the Similimum.

I am sorry to say, but this is not the proper way to use the repertory. If you refer to Kent’s Repertory of the Homoeopathic Materia Medica, in the introductory chapter under “How to Use the Repertory,” Dr. Kent clearly states that without including the singular, rare, uncommon, and peculiar symptoms in the totality, the aggregate of symptoms is useless. He cautions that such an approach amounts to mechanical repertorization, which strips the process of its true value and artistry. Hence, the successful use of the science of repertory requires a true application of the principles of homoeopathy. The repertory is not an end in itself, but a means to guide the physician toward the Similimum. Its proper use demands a philosophical understanding of homoeopathy, careful attention to the peculiar and characteristic symptoms, and the art of individualization. Without this foundation, repertorization becomes mechanical and loses its true purpose; with it, the repertory becomes a powerful instrument in the hands of a thoughtful practitioner.

Repertory Definition and uses:

The intelligent use of a repertory implies that we understand the scope of a repertory as well as the purpose of a repertory, we may ask, what is the repertory? to which the reply might be: " A repertory is an index of symptoms, arranged systematically." Again, we may ask: " What is the purpose of Repertory?" our answer may be, A repertory has two definite purposes.

1. To serve as a reference and guide in looking up a particular symptom.

2. For careful study of all the symptoms that may appear in a chronic case.

Where to use Repertory:

The repertory is not intended for use in cases where there are clear indications for the Similimum. As Dr. Boenninghausen himself stated, the repertory is not the prime tool for the selection of medicine, but rather a supportive aid in the hands of a skilled physician. It's true purpose is to assist when the choice of remedy is uncertain, guiding the practitioner toward the right direction—never to replace the physician’s judgment or the principles of homoeopathy.

According to Dr. Boenninghausen, the best use of the repertory is for reference purposes—that is, to identify the specific symptoms which constitute, or help to constitute, the totality of symptoms. Another important use of the repertory is to distinguish the differences between remedies that may appear equally indicated in a particular case. In this way, the repertory serves as a guide to sharpen the physician’s judgment, rather than as a mechanical tool for prescription.

Correct Use of the Repertory: Reference Tool or Systematic Repertorization in the Spirit of Hahnemann.

An overview:

Repertory Definition and uses:

Scope and limitation of Repertory:

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