After lengthy shaking, one drop of the new solution is mixed with another 99 drops of water. This mixture is shaken vigorously, and then one drop is taken from it and added to another 99 drops of liquid, and so on. This process is repeated thirty, fifty, or more times. The final solution can be more dilute than one molecule of salt placed in an ocean. A molecule is the smallest possible amount of any substance.
Most homeopathic remedies contain less than one molecule of the original plant or chemical extract.
Today, homeopathic remedies are used most often to treat problems such as arthritis, asthma, colds, flu, and allergies. These are some of the most common problems for which people seek medical advice. But, some supporters believe that homeopathic remedies can cure any and every illness. Despite the fact that homeopathic remedies cannot replace insulin for diabetics or surgical removal of a tumor, some supporters claim that homeopathic remedies can cure these as well as other serious or life-threatening diseases. Responsible practitioners do not use homeopathic remedies to treat diabetes, cancer, heart disease, or other major illnesses.