This term reflects the dynamics of this therapeutic method, which consists of the stimulation of one or several organs with an excretory function. This leads, in a sense, to the opening up of channels which enable the toxins liberated by the homeopathic medication to reach the exterior and thus to be excreted from the body. This then involves application of the fundamental principle of cure by treatment from deep within and towards the surface. Certain schools of homeopathy are very faithful to this drainage theory, which has been particularly clearly confirmed by the studies of Doctors Nebel, Leon Vannier and Rouy. By contrast, certain others contend that, when the homeopathic remedy is perfectly accurately selected according to the principle of similitude, it acts at one and the same time as a curative and drainage agent.
Drainage is of particular value in every day practice.
Whilst it does not give the spectacular results associated with very accurately individualised homeopathic Similimum, the drainage complex often improves the patient considerably. There are several classifications of drainage remedies. The most simple and the most frequently used is based quite simply on the affinities of certain medications for one or another organ. Therefore, the kidneys are stimulated by Berberis and Solidago, the liver by Chelidonium, Taraxacum, Carduus Marianus and the skin by Fumaria, Saponaria or Viola Tricolor. Other medications are aimed at increasing veinous tone such as Aesculus, Hamamelis, Hydrastis and Viburnum.