What is homeopathy?

Homeopathy is a system of medicine that helps the body to heal itself.  A homeopathic consultation focuses on the whole person, and enables homeopathic medicines to be selected on the basis of all aspects of the patient and his or her symptoms. This means that each treatment – like each person – is unique.

Homeopathy works on the principle of using like to like cure.  In other words, it treats with medicine made from a substance that would produce similar symptoms in a healthy person.  For example, an onion can cause streaming eyes and a runny nose. A homeopathic medicine derived from onions, Allium cepa, can be successful in alleviating these symptoms in, say, someone suffering from hayfever.

                What sort of conditions can homeopathy treat?

Most illnesses will respond to homeopathic medicines and some can be treated solely with homeopathy.

A medical doctor trained in homeopathy will know when it is most effective to use homeopathic medicine, conventional or a combination of both.

Common conditions that often respond well to homeopathy include allergies, anxiety and panic attacks, asthma, back pain and neuralgia, cystitis, eczema, irritable bowel syndrome, menstrual and menopausal problems, morning sickness and stress. Homeopathy can also be used to treat recurring childhood illnesses such as glue ear.

               What is a homeopathic medicine?

Homeopathic medicines are derived from natural substances, including plants and minerals.  They are prepared in licensed laboratories under strict control and can be given in tablet, granule or liquid form.

Many homeopathic medicines are available over the counter at a pharmacy.  A specialist homeopathic pharmacist will be able to advise on choosing the right strength.

             Is homeopathy safe?

Yes. This is because homeopathic medicines are made from a very small amount of active ingredient using a process of dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking). Two hundred years of practice, research and trials have proved the safety of this gentle system of medicine for both people and animals.  Unlike some conventional drugs, homeopathic medicines are non-addictive and have no dangerous side-effects.  Homeopathy is particularly safe to use for babies, children and pregnant and breastfeeding women under the supervision of an appropriately qualified practitioner.

        Is it officially recognised and regulated?

Homeopathy has been available on the NHS since 1948 and has received the patronage of the Royal Family for six generations.  Although homeopathy itself is not statutorily regulated, the practice of homeopathy by doctors is recognised by an Act of Parliament.

The Faculty of Homeopathy ensures the highest standards in the teaching and practice of homeopathy by statutorily registered healthcare professionals.

Wherever possible, the BHA recommends consulting practitioners accredited by the Faculty of Homeopathy.

       What does treatment involve?

A homeopathic practitioner seeks to treat the whole person.  As well as asking about your symptoms, a homeopathic doctor will be interested in how you feel emotionally and the unique way in which your symptoms affect you.

Questions about your lifestyle, eating habits and preferences, sleep patterns, medical history and state of mind help the practitioner to form a complete picture of you in order to prescribe the correct homeopathic medicine.

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