Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a safe and gentle form of healing that has been used worldwide for over two hundred years. The medicines, known as remedies, act like a springboard for the body's inherent intelligence, or vital force, stimulating self healing. The art of homeopathic prescribing relies not only on finding the most appropriate remedy, but also matching the strength of the remedy to the energy of the patient.

Homeopathy was first developed in the late 1700s by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, a physician who felt the medical procedures of his time were doing more harm than good. He based homeopathy on 'like cures like', an ancient principle used for centuries in different forms of healing.

Homeopathic remedies consist of hundreds of substances found in the natural world. These include plants, minerals and metals, which in large amounts or if used in raw form could cause adverse reactions. Hahnemann found that if he diluted and potentized the substance he could release its energy in a safe and non-toxic manner.

A remedy is made into different strengths or potencies depending on how many times it is diluted and struck against an immovable object. This is either done by hand or with a machine. Hahnemann apparently banged the remedy solution on his thick leather-bound bible. Whether this was initially out of frustration or insight, we may never know. What does matter is that this unique method of remedy preparation gives us various strengths to prescribe with.

Homeopathy treats not the 'dis-ease' of the body but rather the symptoms of expression. Say three people have the flu. One person may have a high temperature while another is vomiting and a third is wandering around aimlessly because of restlessness. They will show their sickness in different ways and each will need a different remedy. Homeopathic remedies tune in to the specific needs of the individual.

Homeopathy is generally not a 'quick fix' although sometimes startling results can occur. Usually you will find most 'miracles' happen with acute or first aid situations. The best way to learn how remedies work is to try them. When prescribed well, homeopathic remedies provide results to a remarkable degree.

A good beginner's book is The Family Guide to Homeopathy by Dr. Andrew Lockie, or anything by Miranda Castro. +++

Samuel Hahnemann

  1755-1843