This book has come into fruition through the dedicated efforts of two Members of the Society (of Homeopaths). It is subdivided into eight main chapters which cover the practicalities of general administration, the patient-homeopath relationship, and personal reflections on prescribing methodologies, in approximately equal measure. The result is a rather handsome title of some 230 pages. It is nicely typeset and easy on the eye, with text interspersed with photographs and diagrams and tables. The patient’s own voice is heard in multiple case résumés, illustrating, as best possible on paper, the patient experience. Advice on case taking, follow-up and prescribing are offered. A chapter is dedicated to acute prescribing, as this can be somewhat neglected in undergraduate training. ‘Acutes’ can be challenging, after all Hahnemann himself said (Organon 6th edition aphorism 73) that the patient either recovers or dies, as the pandemic has assuredly demonstrated. Thus, recognising red flag symptoms and seeking allopathic intervention when needed is a weighty responsibility. The final chapters consider patient types: young and old, male and female each of whom has specific needs. Examples of support plans are also given, be it for students facing exams or going to University, maternity or those undertaking some demanding physical challenge. Overall, I see this as a most useful tool, to be used - as the authors intend - as a reference handbook, and not read once and left on the shelf.

Review by Allan Pollock RSHom.