BHMS (Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine and Surgery) syllabus is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of homoeopathy principles, philosophy, and practice. This undergraduate degree program aims to train individuals to become skilled homoeopathic practitioners.
The BHMS syllabus covers a wide range of subjects that combine theoretical knowledge and practical training. It begins with a strong foundation in basic medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology, and forensic medicine. This scientific understanding serves as the basis for the subsequent study of homoeopathy.
A key focus of the BHMS syllabus is on homoeopathic principles and philosophy, where students explore concepts such as similars, vital force, and miasms. They gain insights into the holistic approach to healing that forms the basis of homoeopathy. The study of materia medica delves into the characteristics and therapeutic properties of homoeopathic remedies, enabling students to develop a comprehensive knowledge of remedies and their application.
Highlights
| Subject | Description |
| Basic Medical Sciences | Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Microbiology, Forensic Medicine and Toxicology |
| Homoeopathic Principles | Study of homoeopathic principles and holistic healing |
| Materia Medica | Characteristics and properties of homoeopathic remedies |
| Surgery | General Surgery and Homoeopathic Therapeutics |
| Obstetrics and Gynaecology | Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Homoeopathic Therapeutics |
| Practice of Medicine | General Medicine and Homoeopathic Therapeutics |
| Community Medicine | Preventive and Social Medicine and Homoeopathic Therapeutics |
| Case Taking and Repertorisation | Techniques for case taking and remedy selection |
| Clinical Training | Practical training and internship in clinical settings |
| Research Methodology | Research methods and ethical considerations |
Detailed BHMS Syllabus & Subjects
| BHMS Subjects | Subject Objective |
| Homoeopathic Pharmacy | This BHMS subject will teach students about the history and development of Homoeopathic Pharmacy and medicine. |
| Physiology including Biochemistry | This BHMS subject addresses the biochemistry fundamentals of Physiology. |
| Homoeopathic Materia Medica | This BHMS subject discusses homoeopathic drugs that are studied and used in the treatment of patients. |
| Human Body Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology | Students will have a thorough understanding of anatomy and applied anatomy. |
| Organon of Medicine | This topic examines the concepts that, when used in practice, enable a physician to achieve the desired results. |
| Principles of Homoeopathic Philosophy and Psychology | This BHMS course subject critically teaches the basics of homoeopathic science as well as inductive and deductive logic. |
| Obstetrics and Gynaecology Infant Care and Homoeo Therapeutics | To diagnose all ailments, homoeopathic practitioners must be schooled in the unique clinical research methodologies that it teaches. |
| The Practice of Medicine and Homoeo Therapeutics | The Similia Principle guides therapy suggestions to students. |
| Surgery Including ENT, Eye Dental, and Homoeo Therapeutics | Students will study clinical assessment techniques as well as fundamental ENT anatomy (subjective and objective). |
| Forensic Medicine & Toxicology | This BHMS course teaches how to employ scientific knowledge in criminal investigations. |
| Pathology and Microbiology including Parasitology Bacteriology and Virology | This BHMS course examines illness processes caused by a number of important bacteria, protozoa, and helminths. |
| Research Project | To graduate with a BHMS degree, students must complete a research project. |
| Repertory | This subject covers the requirement, scope, classification, steps, methods, and techniques. |
| Community Medicine | This subject uses a Primary Health Care strategy to protect and improve the health and well-being of communities and individuals. |
Homoeopathic Principles and Philosophy
Homeopathy is a system of alternative medicine founded in the late 18th century by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician. Its principles and philosophy are based on a few fundamental concepts that guide its approach to healing. The core principles of homeopathy include the law of similars, potentization, individualization, and the holistic view of health.
Law of Similars (Similia Similibus Curentur): The fundamental principle of homeopathy is “like cures like.” This means that a substance that can cause symptoms in a healthy person can be used to treat similar symptoms in a sick person. The concept is derived from Hahnemann’s experiments with various substances on himself and others. He noticed that when a substance produced certain symptoms in a healthy person, it could effectively alleviate similar symptoms in a sick individual. For example, if a person is suffering from a condition with symptoms of watery eyes and sneezing (similar to hay fever), a homeopath might prescribe Allium cepa (made from red onion) as it can produce similar symptoms in a healthy individual.
Potentization: The process of potentization involves serial dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking) of a substance to enhance its therapeutic effects while minimizing any toxic effects. Hahnemann observed that highly diluted and potentized remedies had a more profound and gentle healing impact than the original substance itself. This concept is often met with skepticism from conventional medicine due to the extreme dilution levels, sometimes beyond Avogadro’s number, where no molecules of the original substance may remain in the final remedy. Homeopaths believe that the vital energy or “vital force” of the remedy is imprinted into the water or sugar pellets during the potentization process.
Individualization: Homeopathy treats patients as unique individuals with their own distinct symptoms and characteristics. The focus is on the person’s overall state of health, including their physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Homeopaths take detailed case histories, considering not only the symptoms of the disease but also the patient’s temperament, personality, lifestyle, and family medical history. Based on this comprehensive evaluation, a customized remedy is prescribed to stimulate the body’s self-healing abilities.
Holistic View of Health: Homeopathy believes in addressing the root cause of the illness rather than just suppressing the symptoms. It emphasizes that symptoms are expressions of the body’s attempt to restore balance and health. By treating the underlying cause, the symptoms are expected to naturally subside. Homeopaths consider the entire person and the interconnectedness of their physical, emotional, and mental states. This holistic approach acknowledges that the body and mind are intricately linked, and imbalances in one aspect can affect the other.
It is important to note that while homeopathy has a dedicated following and has shown positive results in some cases, it remains a controversial and debated practice within the medical community. Critics point to the lack of scientific evidence supporting its efficacy beyond the placebo effect and question the fundamental principles, particularly the concept of extreme dilutions.
BHMS Semester-Wise Subjects
| Subjects | Description |
| Materia Medica | This subject is concerned with the theory and study of drugs that are used in the treatment of disease prescribed as per the Doctor. It includes pharmacology, clinical pharmacology and the history and physical and chemical properties of drugs. |
| Organon of Medicine | In this subject, those principles are applied which are necessary to obtain the results. |
| Anatomy | This subject gives knowledge exposure about plants and animals and the interrelation of their parts. |
| Physiology & Biochemistry | This subject deals with the functions and activities of living organisms and their internal and external parts. |
| Community Medicine | In this subject, the health of the members of a community or a region is concerned. |
Specializations offered in the BHMS Programme
The BHMS (Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine and Surgery) program offers a range of specializations that allow students to specialize and gain comprehensive knowledge in specific areas of homoeopathy. These specializations provide in-depth study and expertise in various aspects of homoeopathic practice. Here are some of the specializations commonly offered in the BHMS program:
Homoeopathic Materia Medica: This specialization focuses on an extensive study of homoeopathic remedies, their characteristics, and therapeutic properties. Students acquire a deep understanding of a wide range of remedies and their applications in treating different ailments.
Homoeopathic Repertory: This specialization delves into the repertory, a vital tool used in homoeopathy for remedy selection. Students learn various repertories, repertorization techniques, and effective utilization to analyze symptoms and identify suitable remedies.
Organon of Medicine: The Organon of Medicine specialization explores the principles and philosophy established by Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homoeopathy. Students study Hahnemann’s writings and develop a profound understanding of the principles and concepts that guide homoeopathic practice.
Homoeopathic Pharmacy: This specialization focuses on the preparation and dispensing of homoeopathic medicines. Students learn about different methods of drug preparation, dilution, potentization, and gain knowledge of pharmacy management within the context of homoeopathy.
Homoeopathic Therapeutics: This specialization encompasses the application of homoeopathic remedies in the treatment of specific diseases and conditions. Students study the therapeutic use of remedies in various medical disciplines such as general medicine, surgery, obstetrics, gynecology, dermatology, pediatrics, and more.
Homoeopathic Pediatrics: This specialization emphasizes the treatment of children using homoeopathy. Students gain insights into the unique characteristics of childhood diseases, developmental disorders, and learn about specific remedies and approaches utilized in pediatric homoeopathy.
Homoeopathic Psychiatry: This specialization focuses on the application of homoeopathy in the field of mental health. Students acquire knowledge about psychiatric disorders, homoeopathic management approaches, and the integration of homoeopathy with conventional psychiatry.
Homoeopathic Dermatology: This specialization addresses the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders using homoeopathic remedies. Students learn about various dermatological conditions and acquire the skills to select appropriate remedies for effective management.
BHMS Subjects and Syllabus: Important Books
The BHMS degree programme is a comprehensive education for several disciplines of medical sciences, including homoeopathic medicine and surgery. Some well-known academics and authors have classed course formats to assist students in better understanding the subjects. Some of the most important and well-known reference books for the BHMS syllabus and subjects are as follows:
- Lectures on Homoeopathic Materia Medica by Dr J.T.Kent
- Organon of Medicine 5th & 6th Edition by Hahnemann
- Homoeopathic Mat.Medica by William Boericke
- Principles & Practice of Homeopathy by M.L. Dhawale
- Homoeopathic Drug Picture by Dr M.L. Tyler
- Clinical Anatomy for Medical Students by Richard S. Snell, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
- The Glimpses of the History of Medicine by Dr D.D. Banerjee
- Principles and Art of Cure by Homoeopathy by Roberts
- The Complete Homoeopathy Handbook by Castro
BHMS Course Projects
BHMS course projects offer students valuable opportunities to apply their theoretical knowledge, gain practical experience, and develop research skills in the field of homoeopathy. These projects allow students to engage in various practical activities that enhance their understanding and proficiency. Here are some examples of common BHMS course projects:
Case Studies: Students are tasked with preparing comprehensive case studies that document the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment process of patients. By analyzing and presenting these cases, students deepen their understanding of homoeopathic principles and refine their skills in remedy selection and patient management.
Drug Proving: Students may participate in drug proving projects, which involve administering homoeopathic remedies to healthy individuals to observe and record the resulting symptoms and effects. Engaging in drug provings contributes to the knowledge base of homoeopathic remedies and their specific indications.
Research Projects: BHMS programs often incorporate research components where students undertake projects focused on specific homoeopathic topics. These projects involve conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions to contribute to the existing body of homoeopathic research.
Clinical Observations: Students spend considerable time observing clinical practices under the guidance of experienced practitioners. These observations provide students with real-life insights into patient interactions, case management, and the practical application of homoeopathic treatment methodologies.
Dissertation or Thesis: In the final years of the BHMS program, students undertake comprehensive research projects as part of their dissertation or thesis. These projects require in-depth study, research, and the presentation of findings in a scholarly manner, showcasing students’ abilities to conduct independent research.
Seminars and Presentations: Students are assigned to prepare and deliver seminars or presentations on specific homoeopathic subjects. These projects enhance students’ communication skills, deepen their understanding of the chosen topic, and provide opportunities to share their knowledge with peers and faculty members.
Collaborative Projects: BHMS programs may encourage collaborative projects where students work together in groups or teams to conduct research, surveys, or organize health camps. These projects foster teamwork, research skills, and the practical application of homoeopathic principles in community settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the BHMS program last?
A: The BHMS program typically lasts for five and a half years, including a mandatory one-year internship.
Q: What subjects are covered in the BHMS syllabus?
A: The BHMS syllabus covers various subjects such as Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Organon of Medicine, Homoeopathic Materia Medica, Homoeopathic Repertory, Pathology, Microbiology, Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Community Medicine, and more.
Q: Does the BHMS syllabus include practical training and clinical internships?
A: Yes, the BHMS syllabus includes practical training and a one-year clinical internship. During this period, students gain hands-on experience by observing and assisting in clinical settings under the guidance of experienced practitioners.
Q: Can I specialize in a particular area within the BHMS program?
A: Yes, some BHMS programs offer specializations or elective courses that allow students to focus on specific areas of homoeopathy, such as Homoeopathic Materia Medica, Homoeopathic Repertory, Organon of Medicine, Homoeopathic Pharmacy, and more.
Q: What career options are available after completing the BHMS program?
A: After completing the BHMS program, graduates can work as homoeopathic practitioners in private clinics, hospitals, and healthcare institutions. They can also pursue research, teaching, and administrative roles in the field of homoeopathy.
Q: Can BHMS graduates practice homoeopathy internationally?
A: The practice of homoeopathy varies from country to country, and graduates may need to fulfill specific requirements, such as licensing or registration, to practice homoeopathy in different countries.
Q: Can BHMS graduates pursue further education?
A: Yes, BHMS graduates can pursue higher education options such as Master’s degree programs (MD Homoeopathy), Postgraduate Diploma courses, and research programs in homoeopathy and related fields.
Q: Can I apply for BHMS after completing 12th standard with Science?
A: Yes, students who have completed their 12th standard with Science (Biology group) are eligible to apply for BHMS programs. However, specific eligibility criteria may vary between institutions.
Q: Is BHMS recognized by the government and regulatory bodies?
A: Yes, BHMS programs are recognized by government bodies and regulatory authorities that oversee homoeopathic education and professional practice to ensure quality standards.