What is the origin of homeopathy?
The word homeopathy is derived from two Greek words, meaning similar + suffering. The law of similars has been a part of medical practice at least since the time of classical Greece, but homeopathy as we know it was first formulated two hundred years ago by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician, chemist and linguist.
What are the remedies made from?
The remedies that homeopaths prescribe come from many different natural sources: most are derived from plants and others are made from minerals, metals and animal substances. Most of our raw materials have been used medicinally for generations and some still form common conventional medicines, such as digitalis, atropine and salicylic acid.
How are they made?
After initial preparation of the raw material in alcohol, the remedies are made by serial dilution and 'succussion' (vigorous shaking) in water. This may be done up to many thousands of times and the resulting remedy is accordingly given its 'potency' - the number of dilutions followed by 'C' (the 30C potency of a remedy has been diluted and succussed 30 times, each time in 100mls of pure water). The liquid dilution is used either as a liquid remedy or is soaked into tablets or granules for easy dispensing.. Have a look at the Helios link on this site, a homeopathic pharmacy, more detailed information on how the remedies are made.
Are homeopathic remedies safe?
Homeopathic remedies are a unique, potentised energy medicine, drawn from the plant, mineral and animal worlds. They work by gently boosting the natural energy of the body, and are very safe, even for pregnant and sensitive patients. There is no danger of addiction or toxicity
Isn't it dangerous to use poisonous herbs?
It is easy to confuse homeopathy with herbalism, because in fact we also use plants in our medicines. Herbalists use tinctures (crude doses), but, although some medicinal plants are POTENTIALLY poisonous, our medicine is diluted so much that there is no chance of toxicity from them.
What might happen once treatment starts?
After taking your remedy you may notice some changes. Some patients experience a period of exceptional well being and optimism. Sometimes your symptoms can appear to get worse for a short time, this is a good sign that the remedy is taking effect. Sometimes a cold, rash or some form of discharge may appear as a 'spring cleaning' effect which means your system is going through a clearing out stage, eliminating toxins. Old symptoms can reappear, usually for a short period. These symptoms will pass, they are a very important part of the healing process. If any response to your treatment concerns you, do contact me as soon as you can, as it is important to know what happens as treatment progresses. You might also want to make notes of any changes and take them with you to discuss at your next appointment.
What can homeopathy treat?
Homeopathy is used to treat everything from acute fevers, sore throats and toothache, to chronic illnesses such as arthritis, eczema, asthma, anxiety and insomnia. Homeopathy treat the man or woman not the disease.
How long has Homeopathy been used?
Homeopathy has been used in the UK for over two hundred years, but has an honourable tradition dating back to ancient Greece. It was Samuel Hahnemann, a brilliant doctor working in 1796 who developed the scientific and philosophical foundations of this gentler way of healing. These scientific principles form the basis of successful homeopathic practice today.
Can homeopathy treat serious disease like cancer?
There has been little research in this area to date, and let's be honest, most people with life-threatening illnesses see medical specialists first. However, it is important to realise that homeopathy is a complementary medicine and is frequently used alongside conventional treatments in such cases. Homeopathy can reduce the side effects of cancer treatments, and makes a valuable contribution to the care of cancer patients.
Can I have homeopathy instead of HRT?
This is an area for which we do have evidence. Yes, homeopathy is a real alternative to HRT, but the prescription must be individualised to the patient. Homeopaths treat hot flushes, hormonal mood-swings, depression, headaches, itching and other menopausal problems. They often suggest lifestyle changes and give dietary advice too.
How do we know homeopathy works, could any improvement in health just be the placebo effect?
There have been some important trials done in Glasgow which demonstrate that homeopathy is not simply a placebo. Remember that all medicines can behave as placebos...especially the coloured ones! The experience of many homeopaths over the past 200 years is that we achieve much higher success rates than can be attributed to placebo alone. Homeopathy has also been demonstrated to work on animals and as we are frequently asked to treat babies and small children, we are convinced it is not just a placebo. We do desperately need more trials into homeopathy. A big research effort is currently taking place at Sheffield University to establish the kind of research model we need to properly investigate its efficacy.
How does homeopathy work?
Homeopathic remedies work by stimulating the body's own healing power. This stimulus will assist your own system to clear itself of any expressions of imbalance. The aim is to get you to a level of health so that eventually you will need infrequent treatment.
Is it true that homeopaths do not agree with vaccination?
It's not as simple as that...homeopaths specialise in the treatment of individuals and their unique responses to disease. So we work with a different health model from the conventional one, which aims to increase "herd immunity". The Society of Homeopaths acknowledges that there is much anecdotal and scientific evidence to support the arguments presented for and against vaccination. We believe that parents should be supported in making rational informed decisions on the short and long term implications of vaccination.
Can you treat pregnant women and very small babies?
Yes. Homeopathy comes into its own when we treat common problems of pregnancy, such as morning sickness, backache and fatigue. Because the medicines are safe, even very small babies can be treated, for things such as failure to feed, indigestion and colic.
What do doctors think of homeopathy?
Doctors are becoming increasingly open-minded about homeopathy and where homeopathy is integrated in the NHS, the majority of doctors welcome it. Most private health insurance companies will allow referrals to registered homeopaths.
Should I tell my GP?
This is a personal decision. Many GPs are open to complementary and alternative therapies. While you are on homeopathic treatment your symptoms are likely to change or disappear, and you may not need all or some of the drugs you may have been taking so far. Sometimes your GP may already have advised you to reduce whatever you are taking but be aware that any change in your prescribed medication must be discussed with your GP in advance. I am happy to write a letter to your GP to inform him about your homeopathic treatment if you so wish.
Do I have to stop the drugs I am currently taking?
Absolutely not. Homeopathy is a complementary system of medicine and as such it can be used as an alternative treatment or where necessary it can work beautifully along side orthodox medicine and can alleviate symptoms from pharmaceutical drugs. There are some drugs, especially those that suppress symptoms (for example cortisone-based creams for eczema; the contraceptive pill; HRT) which can make homeopathic treatment more difficult and slower. But the homeopath has many methodologies and has ways to overcome these obstacles. I repeat, it is vital to always consult your prescribing doctor regarding any changes in medication.
What about seeing a GP?
I recommend that you should maintain your relationship with your GP. Your GP will be able to arrange any tests or X-rays you may need. Homeopathy has an alternative philosophy but by working in this way with your GP the two systems of health care can provide a complementary service.
Can I treat myself with homeopathic remedies?
You can use some remedies at home to treat first aid problems such as cuts, stings, minor burns and bruises. There's lots more information on this site about courses I provide on this subject. There are a number of good books available such as: Homeopathy, Natural Medicine for the Whole Person, by Peter Adams, Element. Practical Homeopathy, A Complete Guide to Home Treatment, by Beth MacEoin, Bloomsbury. The Complete Homeopathy Handbook,by Miranda Castro, Macmillan.
Can I buy homeopathic medicines from you without a consultation?
I can provide various remedy kits, my supplier is Helios homeopathic pharmacy (link on this site) .