Homeopathy 101

Dr. Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843), a medical doctor, is considered the father of homeopathy.  Based on his observations, he formulated the so-called PRINCIPLE OF SIMILARITY or LIKE CURES LIKE.  Using this principle he observed that a given substance can cure in a diseased person the symptoms that it produces in a healthy person. Hahnemann’s original concepts and experiments about homeopathy are published in a book called the Organon. Students of Dr. Hahnemann formed the first homeopathic medical school in the United States.  This laid the foundation for natural health schools within the Americas based on homeopathy and other alternative medicine modalities.

Homeopathy is recognized by both the medical and the alternative communities as a treatment for specific conditions and illnesses.  It is considered to be both well-described and scientifically based because its principles are derived from reproducible scientific experiments.  Homeopathy does not seek to remove or suppress any symptoms. Its goal is to recognize and remove the underlying cause for the symptoms.

How is Homeopathy used?

Homeopathy can be used in first aid to safely treat common ailments such as teething, minor burns, bruises, insect bites, rashes, etc.  It can also be used to treat acute temporary conditions such as colds, influenza, coughs, and sprains.  Furthermore, it can be used holistically for long-term or chronic conditions to improve the overall constitution and strengthen body systems.

Homeopathic remedies are made from natural substances such as plants, minerals, etc. Through a process of serial dilution a very dilute extract is made into a remedy.  This serial dilution is performed in order to create the minimum dosage necessary.

Homeopathic medicines can be administered in drops, grains (approx. 3mm in diameter) or globules (approx. 1mm in diameter). The medicine is taken once, meaning that a given number of drops, grains or globules are taken on a single occasion and only once. Only one homeopathic remedy is given at any one time. For acute and chronic conditions, sometimes the medicine is repeated, e.g., two times a day or every three hours, etc.

You must follow the instructions carefully. Usually the remedy is repeated until a reaction occurs. Timing of homeopathic dosages can be important. Usually you will be instructed to take it before a certain meal, usually breakfast. It is best not to eat any food or consume alcohol or caffeinated beverages before taking a homeopathic remedy. Brushing your teeth should also be avoided.  After a few minutes the remedy is absorbed and you can eat or brush your teeth.

Specially formulated homeopathic remedies are thought to resonate with the body, triggering a positive healing response from the inside out. The documented results from thousands of experienced homeopaths, and from millions of their patients, clearly show that these small, individualized doses produce profound health benefits.