What is Homeopathy?

Many would say that Homeopathic medicine is no longer considered “alternative” or “complimentary” medicine.  Homeopathy is now practiced worldwide and has been for over 200 years.  It is reported that over 500 million people world- wide have used Homeopathic medicines and that it plays a significant role in the healthcare systems of many countries today.

What Kinds of Illnesses Can Homeopathy Help People With?

People of all ages with a wide range of illnesses and problems can be treated by homeopathy.  If an illness is related to an imbalance of the vitality then homeopathy can help.  The following problems and illnesses can be treated effectively with homeopathy.

Acute Illnesses

Flu, urinary tract infections and bronchitis are just a few examples of acute illnesses which can be treated with homeopathy.  Such illnesses can resolve quickly when the correct medicine is given.  Surprisingly, homeopathy even has a good success with acute appendicitis, making surgery unnecessary, if the correct medicine is given early enough.

Emotional and Mental Illness

Since homeopathy treats the whole person, disorders of thought and feeling is necessarily included.  Even if a person’s complaints are only physical, every human being is subject to mental and emotional stresses.  The unique way we react to these stresses will be important for the homeopath to know, in order to find the medicine which best helps the whole person, including the physical problems.

Injuries

Many types of injuries such as bruises, strains, burns or animal bites can be treated with homeopathy alone.  Others, such as fractures, may require the help of an orthopedic surgeon.  And Homeopathy can support and speed the healing.

Obstetric Problems

Homeopathy has helped many cases of difficult pregnancy and labor.

Female Hormonal Problems

PMS and menopausal hot flushes are both related to an imbalance of the vitality.  There is no one homeopathic medicine for each of these problems.  The complete homeopathic case is taken and when the correct medicine for the whole person is give, the hormonal issues will improve.  Change in diet and lifestyle may also be important.

Effects of Physical or Emotional Trauma

A person who has not been well since an accident, a fall, can often be helped greatly by homeopathy.  A person who is suffering from a past emotional shock or grief or fright can also be helped by Homeopathy.

Chronic Disease

People with a wide range of chronic illness can be treated with homeopathy.  Examples include M.S, Cancer, arthritis, fatigue, bowel problems, headaches, sinusitis and heart problems to name a few.

What if I am Taking Prescription Drugs?

Homeopathic remedies will not interfere with other forms of treatment and you will never be asked to discontinue the use of your prescription medications. As your overall health improves over time, you may feel you no longer need the same dosage of your prescription medicine, and at that time you should consult with your family physician to discuss reducing your dose.

How is Homeopathy Different From Modern Medicine?

The conventional doctor views disease as being localized in organs or tissues.  Thus arthritis is understood as a joint disease, neuritis is a nerve disease, angina as a heart disease.  The treatment involves one or more drugs for each different problem, resulting in multiple drug therapy for patients with more than one complaint.  The homeopathic physician, on the other hand, views a person as a physical, emotional, and mental unity, so that all symptoms are considered part of one disease process.  Thus, the homeopath would treat a patient with many complaints with only one medicine at a time.

Modern medicine tends to view symptoms as something bothersome to be gotten rid of or as a problem to be controlled.  In contrast, the homeopathic doctor has great interest in the patient’s symptoms because he realizes that they are the organisms’ only way of expressing the underlying disease.  Each symptom is an intelligent expression of a complex living system out of balance.  Thus the homeopath listens carefully to everything the patient says.  The patient is encouraged to speak freely about any problem, complaint or symptom no matter how small or peculiar.  Nothing is unimportant.  It is by paying attention to the totality of symptoms, physical, emotional and mental, that the homeopath can discover the best medicine for the patient.

Another important difference between homeopathy and modern medicine has to do with the way pharmaceutical medicines act.  Modern drugs are said to have “therapeutic effects” and “side effects”.  The “therapeutic effects” are desirable and result from and act on one or more organs to control, modify or suppress symptoms.  The “side effects” of drugs result from their undesirable actions on body tissues.  These unwanted effects are just as much a part of a drug’s action as the “therapeutic effect”.  In other words the pharmaceutical drug is designed to produce affects,  and it is interesting the so called “side affects” are actually simply what the drug will produce, and as such could be considered as a marketing term, in as much as how they are described.

Treating children with Homeopathic medicine is a safe and effective way to deal with a wide range of ailments from problems with teething and colic to eczema and asthma.

Can I Treat my Animals with Homeopathy?

In addition to your regular veterinary visits, Homeopathy can be a useful tool to help enhance your animal's health. Some examples are neurological conditions to skin disease and kidney problems. I always insist that the animal has already been seen by a veterinarian and try to stay in contact with the primary health care provider while treating homeopathically.

How do Homeopathic Medicines Work?

Homeopathic physicians believe that within every living person there exists an intelligent force, a life energy called the “vital force” that is responsible for maintaining balance and health in the body, mind and emotions.  This idea is ancient and universal, and can be found in every culture and medical system throughout the world (except for modern medicine which ignores this concept).  From this point of view, illness can be understood as resulting from an imbalance with the organism, the complaints that we suffer are expressions of that imbalance.

What is Homeopathic Treatment Like?

Homeopathic treatment for chronic illness begins with the physician taking a complete case.  This includes your medical history with all your complaints, past history, and also a general review of your physical nature (body temperature, food desires, etc.), sensitivity and personality.  A physical exam can also provide useful information.  Taking the case generally requires several hours, and should give the homeopathic physician enough information to find the one medicine which is best for the patient.  Depending on the patient’s response to the remedy, the physician may choose to repeat or change remedies.  One or more medicines may be needed during the course of treatment for chronic illness, but remedies are always given one at a time, each dose corresponding to the patient’s state at the time the medicine is given.  The complete treatment of chronic illness may take several years, depending on many factors including; the patient’s age and general level of vitality; duration of the illness; depth and complexity of the illness and amount of previous suppressive treatment with conventional drugs or surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homeopathic Medicine

How do Homeopathic Medicines Work?

Homeopathic physicians believe that within every living person there exists an intelligent force, a life energy called the “vital force” that is responsible for maintaining balance and health in the body, mind and emotions.  This idea is ancient and universal, and can be found in every culture and medical system throughout the world (except for modern medicine which ignores this concept).  From this point of view, illness can be understood as resulting from an imbalance with the organism, the complaints that we suffer are expressions of that imbalance.

Hahnemann theorized that giving a homeopathic medicine to a patient with a “similar” illness was like giving a tiny push the imbalanced vital force, stimulating the body’s natural defense mechanisms to put the organism back into balance and heal the disease.

Homeopathy treats people, not diagnoses or disease names.  When a person is ill, that illness has a unique pattern.  Everyone tends to get sick in a way that corresponds to the heredity, environmental factors, stresses and weaknesses that are unique to that individual.  As a result, five different people with flu might require five different homeopathic medicines, because they have five different set of symptoms.  Treatment is thus individualized based on the unique way that each of those five people is ill with the flu.  The homeopathic physician is not so much trying to eliminate symptoms, but rather find the right medicine to stimulate the body’s healing powers so that health is restored.

How is Homeopathy Different From Modern Medicine?

The conventional doctor views disease as being localized in organs or tissues.  Thus arthritis is understood as a joint disease, neuritis is a nerve disease, angina as a heart disease.  The treatment involves one or more drugs for each different problem, resulting in multiple drug therapy for patients with more than one complaint.  The homeopathic physician, on the other hand, views a person as a physical, emotional, and mental unity, so that all symptoms are considered part of one disease process.  Thus, the homeopath would treat a patient with many complaints with only one medicine at a time.

Modern medicine tends to view symptoms as something bothersome to be gotten rid of or as a problem to be controlled.  In contrast, the homeopathic doctor has great interest in the patient’s symptoms because he realizes that they are the organisms’ only way of expressing the underlying disease.  Each symptom is an intelligent expression of a complex living system out of balance.  Thus the homeopath listens carefully to everything the patient says.  The patient is encouraged to speak freely about any problem, complaint or symptom no matter how small or peculiar.  Nothing is unimportant.  It is by paying attention to the totality of symptoms, physical, emotional and mental, that the homeopath can discover the best medicine for the patient.

Another important difference between homeopathy and modern medicine has to do with the way pharmaceutical medicines act.  Modern drugs are said to have “therapeutic effects” and “side effects”.  The “therapeutic effects” are desirable and result from and act on one or more organs to control, modify or suppress symptoms.  The “side effects” of drugs result from their undesirable actions on body tissues.  These unwanted effects are just as much a part of a drug’s action as the “therapeutic effect”.  In other words the pharmaceutical drug is designed to produce affects,  and it is interesting the so called “side affects” are actually simply what the drug will produce, and as such could be considered as a marketing term, in as much as how they are described.

Is Homeoptahy New in America?

In the early 1800’s homeopathy spread quickly in Europe and then to the United States as other physicians became interested in the work of Samuel Hahnemann.  Homeopathic physicians with their excellent results attracted considerable attention in treating epidemics of scarlet fever and cholera.  In the early 1800’s, the average mortality rate from cholera for patients treated with homeopathy was under 9%, compared to over 40% for those treated with conventional allopathic medicine.  Interest in homeopathy grew in 1900 and nearly 20% of doctors in America practiced at least some homeopathy.  In 1846 alarmed conventional doctors formed the American Medical Association specifically to oppose homeopathy.  Pharmaceutical companies afraid of losing also used their influence against homeopathy.  The promise of “miracle cures” by “wonder drugs” like penicillin which were easier for physicians to prescribe put additional pressure on homeopathy.  By the 1950’s only a handful of dedicated physicians continued to practice in America, although homeopathy remained popular in Europe, Indian, and South America throughout this time.  Since the 1970’s there has been a considerable resurgence of interest in homeopathy.

What Kinds of Illnesses Can Homeopathy Help People With?

People of all ages with a wide range of illnesses and problems can be treated by homeopathy.  If an illness is related to an imbalance of the vitality then homeopathy can help.  The following problems and illnesses can be treated effectively with homeopathy.

Acute Illnesses

Flu, urinary tract infections and bronchitis are just a few examples of acute illnesses which can be treated with homeopathy.  Such illnesses can resolve quickly when the correct medicine is given.  Surprisingly, homeopathy even has a good success with acute appendicitis, making surgery unnecessary, if the correct medicine is given early enough.

Emotional and Mental Illness

Since homeopathy treats the whole person, disorders of thought and feeling is necessarily included.  Even if a person’s complaints are only physical, every human being is subject to mental and emotional stresses.  The unique way we react to these stresses will be important for the homeopath to know, in order to find the medicine which best helps the whole person, including the physical problems.

Injuries

Many types of injuries such as bruises, strains, burns or animal bites can be treated with homeopathy alone.  Others, such as fractures, may require the help of an orthopedic surgeon.  And Homeopathy can support and speed the healing.

Obstetric Problems

Homeopathy has helped many cases of difficult pregnancy and labor.

Female Hormonal Problems

PMS and menopausal hot flushes are both related to an imbalance of the vitality.  There is no one homeopathic medicine for each of these problems.  The complete homeopathic case is taken and when the correct medicine for the whole person is give, the hormonal issues will improve.  Change in diet and lifestyle may also be important.

Effects of Physical or Emotional Trauma

A person who has not been well since an accident, a fall, can often be helped greatly by homeopathy.  A person who is suffering from a past emotional shock or grief or fright can also be helped by Homeopathy.

Chronic Disease

People with a wide range of chronic illness can be treated with homeopathy.  Examples include M.S, Cancer, arthritis, fatigue, bowel problems, headaches, sinusitis and heart problems to name a few.

What is Homeopathic Treatment Like?

Homeopathic treatment for chronic illness begins with the physician taking a complete case.  This includes your medical history with all your complaints, past history, and also a general review of your physical nature (body temperature, food desires, etc.), sensitivity and personality.  A physical exam can also provide useful information.  Taking the case generally requires several hours, and should give the homeopathic physician enough information to find the one medicine which is best for the patient.  Depending on the patient’s response to the remedy, the physician may choose to repeat or change remedies.  One or more medicines may be needed during the course of treatment for chronic illness, but remedies are always given one at a time, each dose corresponding to the patient’s state at the time the medicine is given.  The complete treatment of chronic illness may take several years, depending on many factors including; the patient’s age and general level of vitality; duration of the illness; depth and complexity of the illness and amount of previous suppressive treatment with conventional drugs or surgery.

Since the patient’s symptoms expressed in his/her own words form the basis for choosing the correct medicine, it is of great importance that the patient learns to observe and report symptoms.  It may require some effort to pay attention to aspects of one’s life which many people often ignore.  After the initial case interview the homeopath may ask the patient to observe certain symptoms more closely.  Thus the person being treated for chronic disease must be patient.  Also, during the course of treatment, certain symptoms may be temporarily worse.  This normally does not last longer than a few days.  It is important to try to avoid interrupting the healing process by suppressing such symptoms with potent pain medication, tranquilizers, antibiotics or cortisone. (This should be individually discussed with a doctor).

It is important to remember that homeopathy is a very complex and exacting medical science.  The reason the physician spends so much time with the patient, trying to understand his or her symptoms so well, is that he must choose the one medicine that matches the symptoms of the patient best.  There are several thousand homeopathic medicines, many with similar symptoms, or overlapping symptom pictures; homeopathy is as complex as nature!  There is no homeopathic physician who finds the right remedy every time.  Please be patient.

Homeopathy is a powerful safe, and effective medical system.  It does however; require considerable commitment from both the patient and physician,

Does Lifestyle Play a Role in Treatment?

Yes!  A healthy lifestyle is very important in any program designed to improve your health.  Also, homeopathic medicines are most effective if the patient is taking good care of himself or herself.  A healthy diet, regular exercise, plenty of sleep and a balance of work and relaxation are an important foundation for treatment. 

What Will Happen After Treatment?

After taking your remedy you should notice some changes taking place. These changes may occur quite quickly after your first dose or they may take a few weeks to appear. It is possible that for a very short time, your symptoms may appear slightly worse. This is called a homeopathic aggravation and means the remedy is taking effect and you should feel the beginnings of recovery when this period has passed. Alternatively, patients often experience a period of well being and optimism. If you develop any new symptoms during treatment, and have any questions, you should contact your Homeopath. Whatever happens between appointments, it is important to keep careful track of it so that you can discuss it at your next appointment. To understand an aggravation more clearly, the following is a typical situation. After a patient’s case is taken and they are given the homeopathic remedy that most closely matches the symptoms, they may notice that hours later, you may develop cold like symptoms, with a runny nose and sneezing. This normally lasts only a short while, and when the cold clears up the original symptoms is better. At not time, is the patient asked to go off doctor prescribed medicines.

How Long is a Course of Treatment?

This depends very much on what sort of illness you have. A very slowly developing complaint will not disappear overnight, but other complaints can go quite quickly. Generally, we expect to see some reaction within the first month. Complicated cases are healed from the inside, working outwards. This means that superficial skin eruptions are usually the last symptoms to go. Be patient, it is much better for you to be relieved of both the cause of your illness and its symptoms, rather than just merely masking the symptoms. Every case is different, just as no two people are alike.

Can I Treat Myself With Homeopathy?

For simple first aid situations, you can learn to use some homeopathic remedies at home. There are a number of excellent remedies which deal effectively with first-aid problems such as cuts, stings, burns, bruises and stomach upsets. You may already have heard of Arnica for bruises, Aconite for the first sign of a cold or Chamomilla for teething in babies. Ask your Homeopath for more information or check back often to see when the next first aid course is being offered. You should not, of course, attempt to treat any serious complaint yourself and if any apparently minor complaint does not respond to your first-aid treatment, you should consult your Homeopath immediately.

What if I am Taking Prescription Drugs?

Homeopathic remedies will not interfere with other forms of treatment and you will never be asked to discontinue the use of your prescription medications. As your overall health improves over time, you may feel you no longer need the same dosage of your prescription medicine, and at that time you should consult with your family physician to discuss reducing your dose. Important : Do not stop taking a prescription drug without consulting your family doctor. Is Homeopathy safe for children and infants? Treating children with Homeopathic medicine is a safe and effective way to deal with a wide range of ailments from problems with teething and colic to eczema and asthma. Homeopathy is also safe for pregnant and lactating mothers and can bring relief of symptoms such as back pain or frequent urination during pregnancy, and mastitis (breast infections) while nursing. It is important to note that Homeopathic treatment never replaces conventional medical care but is a wonderful compliment to it. The best way to decide if Homeopathy is right for mother or child is to talk to a Homepath and discuss your options.

Can I treat my animals with Homeopathy?

In addition to your regular veterinary visits, Homeopathy can be a useful tool to help enhance your animal's health. Some examples are neurological conditions to skin disease and kidney problems. I always insist that the animal has already been seen by a veterinarian and try to stay in contact with the primary health care provider while treating homeopathically.

Can I Treat Myself With Homeopathy?

For simple first aid situations, you can learn to use some homeopathic remedies at home. There are a number of excellent remedies which deal effectively with first-aid problems such as cuts, stings, burns, bruises and stomach upsets. You may already have heard of Arnica for bruises, Aconite for the first sign of a cold or Chamomilla for teething in babies.

Ask your Homeopath for more information or check back often to see when the next first aid course is being offered. You should not, of course, attempt to treat any serious complaint yourself and if any apparently minor complaint does not respond to your first-aid treatment, you should consult your Homeopath immediately.

Is Homeopathy New in America?

In the early 1800’s homeopathy spread quickly in Europe and then to the United States as other physicians became interested in the work of Samuel Hahnemann.  Homeopathic physicians with their excellent results attracted considerable attention in treating epidemics of scarlet fever and cholera.  In the early 1800’s, the average mortality rate from cholera for patients treated with homeopathy was under 9%, compared to over 40% for those treated with conventional allopathic medicine. 

Frustrations and Limitations of Modern Medicine

In recent years important changes in thinking about health and disease have been occurring in our society.  Increasingly, the public has educated itself about healthy diet, exercise, and a wide variety of alternative medical therapies.  Frustration with the limitations of modern medicine has pushed both medical professionals and lay people to look for safer, more effective therapies.  In particular, people are looking not only for control of symptoms, but moreover, for restoration of health.  It is interesting to note that this way of thinking is not new.  It was critical in the medical philosophy of such great civilizations as ancient Egypt, Greece and China, several thousand years ago.

An essential element of this way of looking at things is the idea that every human being is an integrated whole.  In reality, a person cannot be divided into separate parts; each one assigned a specific disease or ill ness, and each disease a different treatment.  A true medicine of healing will consider the physical, mental and emotional elements in a unified manner.  Homeopathy is an important medical system which is based on this approach.

"LIKE CURES LIKE" OR "sames must be cured by same"