⚖️Acute vs Chronic Prescribing in Homeopathy: Why the Difference Matters

One of the most common questions I hear is:

“Why did you give me one remedy for my panic attack, but a completely different one for my anxiety?”

Because in homeopathy, the remedy is chosen for the state, not the label.

Acute and chronic situations speak two different languages, and the homeopathic response mirrors that difference.

Let’s explore this gently.

What Is an Acute Condition?

An acute is something that:

• Comes on suddenly

• Has a clear beginning

• Moves quickly

• Would naturally resolve with time

Examples:

• Fever

• Stomach bug

• Flu

• Injury

• Teething

• Shock

Acutes are like storms, intense but temporary.

What acute remedies aim to do:

• Support the body’s natural response

• Ease discomfort

• Prevent complications

• Help the system settle

They are usually given in potencies like 30C or 200C, depending on intensity.

Acute prescribing is fast-paced and responsive.

What Is a Chronic Condition?

A chronic state:

• Develops gradually

• Returns in cycles

• Persists for months or years

• Affects multiple systems (energy, sleep, mood, digestion)

Examples:

• Anxiety

• Hormonal imbalances

• Digestive issues

• Thyroid/adrenal concerns

• Recurrent infections

• Long-standing skin conditions

Chronic issues are more like patterns, they reflect deeper imbalances.

What chronic remedies aim to do:

• Address underlying susceptibility

• Regulate the nervous system

• Support emotional patterns

• Restore long-term equilibrium

These remedies are often called “constitutional” remedies, although I must say this is not the correct way of use such a term.

They are based on your whole picture, not just one symptom.

🔄Why you can't treat Chronic states with Acute remedies?

This is a common misunderstanding.

You can temporarily relieve chronic symptoms with acute remedies, but:

• They won’t address the root

• Relief won’t last

• The pattern will return

Example:

A person with chronic anxiety may take Aconite during a panic attack; it helps, but it won’t resolve the deeper pattern driving the anxiety.

This is where chronic prescribing steps in.

How Chronic Homeopathy Works

We look at:

• Your personality

• Emotional tendencies

• Sleep

• Appetite

• Fears

• Life history

• Trauma patterns

• Hormonal rhythm

• Physical tendencies

I am not treating a diagnosis, I am treating you.

This creates deeper and more sustainable change.

How Potencies differ between Acute & Chronic treatment

Acutes:

• Often 30C or 200C

• Given more frequently

• Aim for rapid response

  
  

Chronics:

• It varies from 12C, 30C, 1M, LM potencies

• Given less frequently

• Aim for long-term rebalancing

Potency is personalised, there's no universal rule.

Why both types of prescribing matter

Acute prescribing is like giving the body a supportive hand during a storm.

Chronic prescribing is like rebuilding the foundation, so storms no longer shake you.

Most people need a combination of both over time.

They complement each other beautifully.

💬 If you're living with recurring symptoms, physical or emotional, your system may be asking for deeper support.

Book your Free Discovery Call and let’s explore whether acute or chronic prescribing (or both) can guide you back to balance.

About DTHomeopathy

Danilo is a compassionate homeopath and midwife with a deep passion for holistic care. With many years of experience supporting children and adults alike, he has helped patients navigate everything from persistent coughs to menstrual concerns, fertility challenges, and emotional wellbeing. Currently completing a Master’s degree in Applied Cognitive and Behavioural Psychology, Danilo combines his medical background with a modern understanding of the mind–body connection, offering a truly integrative and gentle approach to health.

Created by Danilo, founder of DTHomeopathy, a Homeopath, and a Midwife, who helps people find balance through natural healing.