Metamorphoses of the Animal Realm: Butterflies and Orchids in Homeopathy.
Although orchids, with 20–30,000 species, are the largest plant family after the aster family (Asteraceae), they have hitherto been almost entirely absent from homeopathic practice. They also seem to have found little use in folk medicine, despite being cultivated for a long time for their attractive appearance. The mere idea that the root tubers of the 'knabenkraut' orchids (genus Orchis), because of their testicle-like appearance, might be used to enhance virility is what has given the entire family its name.
