What is Homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a gentle form of healing that is used by over 500 million people worldwide to treat both acute and chronic conditions. Homeopathy restores the immune system by treating the whole person, not just the symptoms or diagnosis. Homeopathic treatment is safe, effective, and appropriate for people of all ages and stages.
The principles of homeopathy were developed in the eighteenth century by the German physician, Samuel Hahnemann. Homeopathy is based on the law of similars or like cures like. It simply means that any substance, which produces symptoms in a healthy person, can cure similar symptoms in a person who is sick. The holistic nature of homeopathy means that each person is treated as a unique individual where their body, mind, spirit and emotions are considered when choosing a homeopathic remedy.
Homeopathic remedies are made from natural substances such as plants or minerals. The substances are prepared through a process of repeated dilution and succession(shaking). This process is what releases the healing properties of the substance. Homeopathic remedies are made at homeopathic pharmacies that are strictly regulated by the FDA.
Homeopathic remedies act quickly and they are made from natural substances so there is no need to worry about side effects or drugs causing harm to you or your little one. Homeopathic remedies do not treat a symptom or diagnosis. Rather, homeopathic remedies are given to stimulate the body to heal itself.
What to expect during a consultation?
As a guide, your first appointment with your homeopathic practitioner may last for 90 minutes with a follow-up appointment lasting 30-45 minutes. Questions about your lifestyle, eating habits, temperament, personality, sleep patterns, and medical history will help the homeopath form a complete picture of you. After your consultation your practitioner will study potential homeopathic remedies that will suit you, choosing from over 4,000 homeopathic remedies. This is no small task and may take up to a week for your practitioner to notify you with your chosen homeopathic remedy and instructions.
Homeopathy can be used in conjunction with allopathic medicine and I strongly advise against changing your prescription medications without guidance from your doctor. I believe that allopathic and natural medicine can work together to nurture the most optimal you.
How long is homeopathic treatment?
People with long-standing problems can expect many months of treatment. Whereas, acute issues will clear up rather quickly. After the initial consultation and after the homeopathic remedy is chosen, the practitioner will schedule a follow-up appointment six weeks later. At this time the practitioner will determine how well the remedy acted. As you feel better and move toward your optimal level of health, the follow-up appointments can be spread out over longer periods of time.