What principle does homeopathy operate on?

Homeopathy operates on the principle of "like treats like," which is foundational to its philosophy. This means that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can be used in diluted form to treat similar symptoms in someone who is ill. This principle is based on the idea that the body has an innate ability to heal itself, and by introducing a substance that mimics the ailment, the body's healing responses can be stimulated.

In this context, the other choices do not accurately describe the core principle of homeopathy. While natural remedies may be used in homeopathic treatments, it is not limited to "natural remedies for every illness." The avoidance of synthetic drugs is not a universal principle of homeopathy but rather a common preference among some practitioners. Similarly, the idea of using high doses for effectiveness contradicts homeopathy's fundamental approach, which involves using extremely diluted substances. Therefore, the principle of "like treats like" distinctly encapsulates the essence of homeopathy.