Repertorization is an essential step in homeopathic case analysis. It is the sequence of interdependent and linked procedures followed to select the simillimum or a group of similar medicines in a given case using a repertory. Regardless of whether the old or modern method is used, repertorization involves two fundamental logical processes:
- Total Addition Process
- Eliminating Process
1. Total Addition Process (Aggregation Process)
The total addition process involves noting all medicines listed under each rubric relevant to the case. The total marks against each medicine are then calculated. Medicines with higher total scores are further evaluated to identify the simillimum.
Advantages:
- Minimizes the possibility of omitting important remedies.
- Offers a comprehensive overview of all possibilities.
Disadvantage:
- Time-consuming, especially in complex cases.
This process is also referred to as the aggregation process because it aggregates the contributions of all rubrics to the final selection of medicines.
2. Eliminating Process (Continuous Eliminating Process)
The eliminating process is a more selective and hierarchical approach. In this method:
- Identify the most important symptom—preferably a general symptom that is crucial for selecting a prescription.
- Place this symptom at the top of the hierarchy, followed by other symptoms in descending order of importance.
- Select only medicines that cover the top symptom. Subsequent rubrics are used to add marks only to those medicines already selected.
- Some practitioners use a few top rubrics, while others may continue using all rubrics for elimination.
Key Cautions:
- Symptoms must be evaluated strictly; improper evaluation can make this process unreliable.
- Maintain an accurate hierarchy of symptoms.
- Avoid using rubrics with very few medicines for elimination.
- General symptoms are preferable for elimination; important concomitants or pathological generals can also be included, as in Boenninghausen and Boger methods.
Advantages:
- Time-saving and efficient.
- Less confusing compared to total addition.
- Easier to practice systematically when the above cautions are followed.
Other Techniques
While there are several other techniques suggested by experienced practitioners, total addition and eliminating processes remain the most reliable and systematic methods for repertorization in daily practice.
The process of repertorization is a logical, stepwise approach that helps homeopaths select the most suitable medicine. Choosing between total addition and eliminating process depends on the complexity of the case, the experience of the practitioner, and the time available. Proper application of these methods ensures accuracy, efficiency, and clarity in identifying the simillimum.