Homeopathy

What is Homeopathic Medicine?

Homeopathic medicine is a scientifically developed system of medicine originated by Samuel Hahnemann in Germany over 200 years ago. It is based on clearly defined principles set out by Dr. Hahnemann in his treatise, The Organon.

The main principles include:

  1. ”Like cures Like” In other words, a natural substance which would bring on a set of symptoms in a healthy person (who is susceptible to that particular substance) will be useful in curing someone who is ill with the same expression of symptoms. I.e. if someone healthy was to drink too much coffee we might expect them to be irritable, have diarrhea, insomnia and a headache. Thus if someone were to experience these same symptoms a homeopath may prescribe homeopathic coffee to assist the healing process. Hahnemann believed that symptoms are an expression of a disease process which results in a “mis-tunement” of the life force.
  2. Micro dilutions-The medicines used in homeopathy are natural substances which have been diluted and dynamically prepared. I.e. a remedy may be prepared by using 1 ml of a natural substance such as a plant or mineral and diluting it in 9 or 99 parts of water. It is then dynamized or shaken to allow the natural substance to create an impression on the water molecule. Homeopathic remedies are capable of correcting the imbalances or “mis-tunement” within the person, thereby restoring the person gently back to health.

What is the History of Homeopathy?

Since Hahnemann’s time, homeopathy has flourished in many parts of the world, including North America, where in the earlier part of this century, there were many homeopathic hospitals, medical schools, and practicing homeopathic physicians. In Europe, India, and South America, it has continued to be a popular form of medicine. Homeopathy fell out of favour in North America after the Second World War which coincided with the rise of the new “drug age” of medicine that held the promise of a new era of “freedom from disease”. It has only been in recent years, as we have come to realize the limits of modern medicine, that homeopathy has begun to re-surface again in North America.

What the Philosophy of Homeopathy?

Hahnemann believed that in order to cure disease, one has to truly understand the cause of the disease and that the cause must be removed before a person would regain their health. The “quick fix” approach of simply using a powerful drug to rid oneself of the symptoms was considered to be a “suppression of disease” which, over time, would lead to a worsening of a person’s health.

What is the difference between Classical Homeopathy and Complex Homeopathy?

Classical Homeopathy refers to the practice of Homeopathy as was originally set out by Hahnemann. It involves using only a single homeopathic remedy at one time. The prescription is based on information gained about a person in a very detailed case interview. There is no system of medicine that is as effective in treating chronic diseases (provided that there is not irreversible pathology). Complex Homeopathy is the use of complexes of natural substances to balance the body. Many complex remedies have a combination of remedies to try and fit a broader base of symptoms for that condition. Homeopathic Drainage Remedies i.e. Unda Remedies are specially derived remedies formulated to balance restricted organ systems that are reducing wellness. They are often used in combination of several to have the greatest effect. In our modern day of toxic exposure the use of Unda remedies often allows classical remedies to be more effective because they clear all the pathways of elimination first. Homeopathic remedies may also be used in acute illnesses and are safe and effective in promoting a quick return to a healthy state.

What is the difference between Homeopathic Medicine and Naturopathic Medicine?

Homeopathic Medicine is a form of treatment within the scope of practice of Naturopathic Medicine. Naturopathic doctors ( NDs) are primary general practitioners of natural medicine. They are trained to practice in the following disciplines: clinical nutrition, acupuncture, botanical medicine, physical medicine, lifestyle and stress management counselling and homeopathy. NDs also combine results of traditional laboratory testing with other specialized laboratory assessment to complement their treatment approach. Naturopathic Medicine is a regulated and licenced profession in Ontario. Homeopaths are trained to practice in one discipline- homeopathy. Currently Homeopaths are not a regulated or licensed health profession in Ontario.

What kind of conditions can be assisted with Homeopathy?

Everything from acute colds and flus to chronic headaches, allergies, asthma, eczema, digestive concerns, stress, insomnia, lack of energy and arthritis to name a few.

What can I expect from a Homeopathic New Patient Visit History?

No two people are alike and that is the beauty of Homeopathy. Each remedy is chosen uniquely for you. Thus two people with headaches for example may be given two very different remedies. Your main health concern as well as details such as your thirst, food cravings, body temperature, reactions to other environmentals and your personality are taken into consideration.

What about the Research?

Research shows that people with allergies saw a significant reduction in symptoms with treatment with homeopathic remedies ( lancet 1986:881-6) Backed by over 40 years of research and over 2 dozen clinical studies homeopathic Traumeel© has shown to reduce pain, inflammation and improve joint mobility . It is thus a safe and effective alternative to NSAIDs ( Zell et al Biological Therapy, 1989,VII,1,pp.1-6) In a study conducted on the comparison of homeopathy and acetaminophen for the pain associated with osteoarthritis the investigators concluded that homeopathic treatments appears to be safe and at least as effective as acetaminophen and are without potential adverse effects. (AJPM 1998:8:89-91)

Recommended Books:

Everybody’s Guide to Homeopathic Medicines, S. Cummings and D Ullman, Jeremy P. Tarcher, Inc., Los Angeles Distributed by St. Martin’s Press New York, 1984

Homeopathic Self – Care, R. Ullman and J Ullman, Prima Publishing, 1997

Homeopathy- The Principles and Practice of Treatment, Dr. A. Lockie and N Geddes, RD Press, Montreal, 1995