Homeopathy. 2003 Apr; 92(2): 77-83.

Homeopathic remedies as metaphors in family therapy. A narrative-based approach to homeopathy.

Konitzer M, RenÃ©e A, Doering T.

Department of General Practice, Medical School of Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, Hannover, Germany. kleinwaechter.edv@t-online.de

OBJECTIVE: To examine a metaphorical, narrative model to explain the outcome of an homeopathic, encounter involving the patient, practitioner and the homeopathic medicine. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The transcript of a videotaped doctor-patient interaction from a European doctor-patient communication study (EUROCOM) was analysed using qualitative methods. RESULTS: Analysis demonstrates a narrative relationship between the protagonists in the therapeutic interaction, with the homeopathic medicine performing a metaphorical role. DISCUSSION: The results justify further investigation of the narrative and metaphorical properties of the therapeutic encounter in homeopathy.