Homeopathic remedy names often come from the substance used to make the original stock. This guide explains twelve names that commonly appear in homeopathic catalogues. It does not recommend a remedy for a symptom or condition.
How to read a remedy name
A label may show a Latin or scientific source name followed by a potency such as 6X, 6C or 30C. The source name identifies the material used at the start of manufacture. The potency describes the preparation scale and number of dilution stages.
| Label name | Starting source | Name note |
|---|---|---|
| Apis mellifica | Honeybee | Often shortened to Apis. |
| Arnica montana | Arnica plant | Not the same as applying a conventional herbal arnica product. |
| Belladonna | Atropa belladonna, or deadly nightshade | The undiluted plant is toxic. |
| Bryonia alba | White bryony | Often shortened to Bryonia. |
| Chamomilla | Chamomile source material | Not interchangeable with chamomile tea or herbal extracts. |
| Coffea cruda | Unroasted coffee | The name refers to the starting material, not a stated caffeine dose. |
| Gelsemium sempervirens | Yellow jasmine | The source plant is poisonous. |
| Ignatia amara | Seeds of Strychnos ignatii | Often shortened to Ignatia. |
| Nux vomica | Seeds of Strychnos nux-vomica | The source contains toxic alkaloids. |
| Pulsatilla | Pasque flower or windflower | Botanical naming can vary between references. |
| Rhus toxicodendron | Poison ivy | Often shortened to Rhus tox. |
| Sulphur | The mineral element sulphur | The potency is essential to interpreting the label. |
Why source safety still matters
Many starting materials are plants or chemicals that can be harmful before dilution. Homeopathic products also exist at different dilution levels and in different formulations. Do not assume that every product is chemically identical or risk-free because it is labelled homeopathic.
Use the original packaging and check the potency, ingredients, dosage form, warnings, expiry date and product number. The MHRA advises looking for an HR number under the Simplified Registration Scheme or an NR number under the National Rules Scheme where applicable.
What this list cannot tell you
- Whether a product is suitable for you.
- Whether it can be taken with medicines or during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Whether it contains measurable starting material, alcohol, lactose, sucrose or another excipient.
- Whether a symptom needs medical assessment.
- Whether the product is effective. The NHS states that there is no good-quality evidence that homeopathy treats any health condition.
Related guides
- How homeopathic remedies are made
- Homeopathic potency explained
- Homeopathy glossary
- How to take and store a supplied remedy
Considering a household collection? Read the limits and safety checks for traditional homeopathic home kits.
Sources
Source check: 31 August 2026.