Magazine
How do globules work?
by
Natur Total Team
on
Aug 31, 2026
How do globules work? Explanation of the mode of action and theory behind the use of globules
Globules are a central tool in homeopathy and are based on the idea that the body can be stimulated to heal itself through targeted stimuli. The way in which globules work is controversial and differs fundamentally from the effect of conventional medicines. Globules are selected according to the "principle of similarity" and are based on highly diluted substances. In homeopathy, the basic assumption is that potentiation - that is, the repeated dilution and shaking of a starting material - transmits a type of "energetic information" that is intended to stimulate the body to heal itself.
The basic principle of homeopathy: like cures like
Homeopathy was developed by Samuel Hahnemann in the 18th century. He formulated the basic principle "Similia similibus curentur", which translated means "let like be cured by like". This means that a substance that causes certain symptoms in high doses is used in a highly diluted form to treat those same symptoms. A classic example is
Coffea cruda , which is extracted from the coffee bean and is used to treat sleep disorders. The idea behind it is that the active ingredients contained in the coffee bean can have a sleep-inducing effect in diluted form, even though coffee normally has a stimulating effect.
Potentiation: The production and “energetic information” of the globules
An essential part of homeopathy is the process of potentiation. The raw materials used for globules are usually plant, mineral or animal substances. During potentiation, the substance is first diluted in a liquid and then shaken vigorously. This process is repeated several times depending on the level of potentiation.
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D-potencies (1:10 dilution), C-potencies (1:100 dilution) and LM-potencies (1:50,000 dilution) are the common potency levels.
- The higher the potency, the more often the substance has been diluted and shaken. From a certain potency – around C12 – hardly any molecules of the original substance can be detected.
In homeopathy, it is assumed that the "energetic information" of the substance is transferred to the solvent in this way and thus has an effect on the body, even if no measurable amount of the substance is left. Critics, however, doubt that such energetic effects in the body can have a medicinal effect.
The theory of self-healing: Globules as stimuli for the organism
Globules are intended to activate the body's self-healing powers. In homeopathy, it is assumed that the body reacts to the "information" of the globules and creates a stimulus that has a regulating effect on the immune system and other self-healing mechanisms. Globules are often individually tailored to the constitution and specific symptoms of a patient, which means that the same remedy can have different effects on two people with different symptoms. Homeopathy therefore takes a holistic approach that looks at the whole person and not just an isolated symptom.
Scientific theories and hypotheses on the effects of globules
Since homeopathy is scientifically controversial, there are various approaches as to how globules could still have an effect. The most prominent theories include:
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The memory of water : The "water memory" theory states that water stores the "energetic information" of the original substance, even when the substance itself is no longer detectable. This theory was researched by Jacques Benveniste in the 1980s, but later studies were unable to reproduce his results, which is why the theory is highly controversial.
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Nanoparticle hypothesis : Recent studies are investigating whether tiny residues of the starting materials - so-called nanoparticles - could be present in potentized homeopathic remedies and exert a biological effect in the body. Research into this hypothesis is still in its early stages and there is currently insufficient evidence to prove a direct medical effect of nanoparticles in globules.
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Placebo effect : Critics of homeopathy attribute the effect of globules to the placebo effect. The placebo effect states that belief in the effectiveness of a remedy alone can lead to an improvement in symptoms. Studies show that the placebo effect plays a role especially in subjective symptoms such as pain sensation, sleep disorders and stress reduction.
Applications of Globuli: Gentle support for many complaints
Globules are usually used for mild, acute complaints such as colds, headaches or stomach problems. But many people also use globules as a complementary therapy to conventional medicine for chronic illnesses such as migraines, skin problems or rheumatic complaints. Since homeopathy is tailored to each individual, the selection of globules usually requires a precise analysis of the symptoms and individual living conditions.
Conclusion: The effect of globules between theory and experience
The effectiveness of globules is still a matter of scientific debate, and despite many studies, their effectiveness has not yet been clearly proven. However, supporters of homeopathy value globules as a natural alternative that can gently stimulate the body to heal itself and often shows positive results in practice. Whether it is a placebo or an actual healing effect - for many people, globules play an important role in natural health care.
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