Modern research has found no substantive scientific evidence for the efficacy of homeopathic remedies, although anecdotal evidence is abundant and their tradition is rich and well-documented. Modern homeopathy – many of its principles have been part of human wisdom about as long as instinct and intelligence – was set out by Samuel Hahnemann in the early 1800s. This remarkable man rediscovered the Law of Similars” (“like cures like”) known to the ancient Greeks, and proved over 100 substances – testing and recording the symptoms produced in healthy persons in a Materia Medica (which has since expanded to include over 2000 provings). The story of his life and experimentation makes for excellent reading.
WHAT IS HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE?
“Homeopathic medicine has been practised worldwide for over 200 years and plays a significant role in the healthcare systems of many countries today. This effective and scientific system of medicine assists the natural tendency of the body to heal itself. It recognizes that all symptoms of ill health are expressions of disharmony within the whole person, and that it is the patient who needs treatment, not the disease.
Homeopathy assesses the whole person, and focuses on disease prevention and health enhancement using natural medicines and patient education. Homeopathic medicines stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself. Many health conditions can benefit from homeopathic care. Homeopathy is particularly effective in the treatment of long-term chronic diseases, as well as the prevention and reduction of acute conditions.”
An excerpt from The Canadian College of Homeopathic Medicine
Some things to keep in mind:
- Homeopathic remedies do not produce side-effects or interfere with prescription medications (although medications may block the action of homeopathic remedies)
- Homeopathic remedies are safe for children and pets. There is no danger of over-dosing
- Always study the symptom-pictures for each possible remedy closely to find the best fit
- Do not eat or drink anything for at least 15 minutes before or after taking the remedy.
- Dissolve the remedy on or under the tongue.
- Do not handle the granules. Store cool and dry
Homeopathy has been used for a wide range of ailments, such as those in the list that follows. But self-prescribing is not appropriate for communicable diseases, outbreaks, or other serious conditions in the list. Nothing replaces the advice of a trained homeopathic practitioner and / or the care of your family doctor!
- Anxiety and Anticipation
- Fractures
- Grief
- Bites and Stings
- Haemorrhoids
- Boils
- Hayfever
- Bruises
- Indigestion
- Burns
- Measles
- Mumps
- Colds and Influenza
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Colic
- Nosebleeds
- Coughs and Croup
- Shock
- Cuts and Injuries
- Sinusitis
- Cystitis
- Sore Throats and Tonsillitis
- Diarrhoea
- Sprains and Strains
- Earache
- Surgery and Dentists – before and after
- Eye Injuries
- Teething
- Eye Inflammation
- Toothache
- Eye Styes
- Travel Sickness
- Fainting and Collapse
- Whooping Cough
We’re fortunate to have several naturopathic and homeopathic practitioners in the area. When in doubt, seek their advice. To find a Homeopath in your area of Ontario please visit the website of the Canadian Society of Homeopaths.
And for excellent on-line information about homeopathy and homeopathic remedies visit Hylands Homeopathy