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Homeopathy


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Background

Developed by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann in the 1800's in Germany it is based on the principle of "like treats like". By the time Hahnemann died in 1844 homeopathy had spread throughout Europe. It was in the same year that the first British homeopathic hospital was opened in London. Homeopathy is now available on the National Health Service as it is seen as one of the fastest ways of restoring health without risk.

The main aims of homeopathic medicine are to reduce toxicity, restore vitality and relieve disease. It can be used either in conjunction with conventional medicine or as a treatment in its own right. Homeopathic treatments can be found in both chemists and health shops.

Homeopathic remedies use highly diluted substances that if given in higher doses to a healthy person would produce the symptoms that the dilutions are being given to treat.

A process known as Potentization prepares the remedies. During this process substances from man-made, vegetable, mineral or animal sources are diluted to such an extent that only the energy of the substance remains.

What can be treated ?

Homeopathy can be used to treat a wide range of health related problems. Minor ailments such as colds, headaches and tummy upsets can be helped. Whilst sprains, strokes, surgery, asthma, stress and grief can also be treated along with the symptoms of chronic conditions such as arthritis, digestive disturbances and heart disease. When a condition has progressed beyond the point where the bodies own self repair mechanism fails, treatment is less likely to be curative although palliation can occur. It's reenergizing qualities mean that it can be beneficial to those with Glandular Fever and Post Viral Syndrome. Some symptomatic homeopathy may be useful in the short term, for example, Arnica in shock and bruising

Who can it help?

All ages benefit from homeopathy, from tiny babies to the elderly. It is effective in a wide range of medical conditions, including when conventional drugs:

may have side effects or are dangerous e.g. in pregnancy
offer little help e.g. post viral syndrome, PMT
offer only temporary control e.g. arthritis, migraine, allergies

What does the treatment involve?

A consultation will involve a thorough look into the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs of a person within their environment. Constitution, personality and current symptoms will also be addressed. A remedy that is a similar makeup to the person is dispensed addressing the individual rather than the symptom, as the symptom is seen as an expression of disharmony of the body make up. It is important that the treatment is supported by the co-operation of the patient. They need to ensure that they are following a suitable diet and allowing themselves times of rest, relaxation and meditation

Is it safe?

Yes, homeopathy is safe and is usually associated with minimal side effects. Occasionally symptoms may become slightly worse before starting to improve.

It can be used in all age groups and conditions including pregnancy.

Can homeopathy be used with conventional medicines?

Conventional and homeopathic medicines may complement each other. Certainly conventional medication should not be discontinued without discussion with your GP or homeopathic doctor.

How do you get homeopathic treatment.?

Ask your GP for a referral to one of the NHS homeopathic hospitals or clinics, or book an appointment with a homeopathic doctor who sees patients privately.

A list of doctors with the Faculty of Homeopathy's qualification MFHom or FFHom is available from the British Homeopathic Association.

Are all homeopaths doctors?

Not all homeopaths are medically qualified and, as yet, there are no national standards of accreditation for these practitioners. There are some excellent lay homeopaths but if you decide to see a non medically qualified homeopath, it is your responsibility to check they are registered with a professional body.

What is the evidence ?

Overview of effectiveness - Kleijnen J et al. Clinical trials of homeopathy . BMJ 1991;302:316-23

Hay fever - Vickers A, Zollman C, ABC of complementary medicine. Homeopathy. BMJ 1999;319:1115-1118

Asthma - Reilly D et al. Is evidence for homeopathy reproducible? Lancet 1994;344:1601-6

Flu - Papp R et al. Oscillococcinum in patients with influenza-like symptoms: a placebo controlled double blind evaluation. British Homeopathic Journal 1998;87:69-76

General info - www.ebandolier.com