Book Review: Impossible Cure – The Promise of Homeopathy

Introduction

One of the most important aspects of Impossible Cure: The Promise of Homeopathy by Amy L. Lansky (2003) is that it provides an overview of homeopathy grounded in actual human experience. It is, in the first instance, a truly inspirational account of the practice of homeopathy. The work includes a discussion of the history, philosophy, and science that underlie this medical discipline, embroidered upon by verified accounts of homeopathy's healing potential.

Central to the book is its motivating personal narrative: the author's account of her son's recovery from autism through homeopathic medicine and practice. This personal dimension adds depth to the scientific and historical aspects of the work.

About the Author

Amy Lansky received her doctorate in computer science from Stanford University in 1983. After working at various research institutions for a number of years, she began to write about and promote homeopathic medicine. This career change was a direct result of her son's seemingly miraculous recovery from autism through homeopathy. Lansky states, "It did not take long for me to realize that my son's miraculous cure from autism was far more revolutionary than any computer program or technological gadgetry" (Review of Impossible Cure: The Promise of Homeopathy). She soon decided that she had to write a book to inform others about homeopathy. This event changed the direction of her life; she began not only to promote and write about the advantages of homeopathy, but eventually became a practitioner of homeopathic medicine.

The book is also the result of her direct involvement in the field. She became a student at the School of Homoeopathy in Devon, England in 1996 and graduated in 1998 (Amy L. Lansky, PhD). Furthermore, she studied with a number of prominent homeopaths, including clinical studies with Louis Klein, Sadhna Thakkar, and Simon Taffler (Amy L. Lansky, PhD). She began her own homeopathic practice in 2004. Her involvement in homeopathy is further evidenced by her role as co-editor of The American Homeopath, the journal of the North American Society of Homeopaths (NASH), until 2000, and by her membership on the executive board of the California Health Freedom Coalition. She was also elected to the board of the National Center for Homeopathy in Alexandria, Virginia (Amy L. Lansky, PhD).

The book is not only a statement of faith in homeopathy but also a useful guide to the discipline and its practice. In this sense it provides a step-by-step guide for those interested in exploring the advantages of homeopathy. The chapter on the science of homeopathy is specifically intended to dispel much of the criticism and skepticism directed at the discipline. The author points out that while mainstream medicine still tends to view homeopaths with a skeptical eye, her personal experience — alongside the science underlying the discipline — demonstrates that homeopathy is capable of seemingly "impossible" healing achievements.

Structure and Content of the Book

The impact this book has had on the perception of homeopathy can be discerned from the following review by Michael Castleman:

"Amy Lansky watched in disbelief as homeopathy did the impossible — cured her son of autism. She delved into the controversial therapy and has become an articulate, passionate advocate… The result is one of the best introductions to homeopathy I've seen." (Book review: Impossible Cure: The Promise of Homeopathy)

Conclusion

This book has been described as one of the clearest and most comprehensive introductory guides to homeopathy published in many years. Even more importantly, the personal and experiential aspects of the book provide insight into the value and importance of modern homeopathy. As one critic notes, "This book may very well contribute to the transformation of homeopathy from the ugly duckling of medicine to the swan that it deserves to be" (Review of Impossible Cure: The Promise of Homeopathy).