Homeopathic Medicine or Homeopathy is the use of very small amounts of substances (plant, animal or mineral), either alone or in combination in order to support the body in returning to health.
Homeopathy is based on the work of Samuel Hahnemann in the 18th century. He based his medicine on “the law of similars”, which states that – the same substance which causes illness in healthy individuals, cures it in ill people when used in dilution.
One example is Poison Ivy, which in latin and homeopathy it is called Rhus toxicodendron. Once exposed to poison ivy, a specific set of symptoms develop – in this case an extremely itchy, blistering rash with great restlessness. Yet, this same substance in homeopathic dilution, when given to a person with a similar rash, either from poison ivy, chicken pox, eczema, or likewise, can ameliorate the rash.
- It has been observed that Homeopathics work on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels
- There is very little risk of side effects or adverse reactions
- Easy for children due to ease of administration and vitality to respond quickly
- Many indications for basic first aid care (not emergencies!) as well as support with chronic conditions.
Homeopathic Remedies are typically prescribed alongside other Naturopathic Modalities such as diet and lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, supplementation and Naturopathic body work, rather than as a stand-alone.
Please note that Homeopaths are not the same as Naturopathic Doctors (NDs). NDs have at least 7 years medical training, which is not the case for Homeopaths. NDs are trained to identify the appropriate time and place in which to employ the use of Homeopathic remedies, and when done appropriately, the results can be profound.
