Homeopathy FAQ
Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine which is known as a total form of health care; it was originally developed in Germany and soon became very popular in the USA and Europe. Just as those who practise more traditional forms of medicine are called Doctors, those who practise homeopathy are called homeopaths. For those who are just starting out on the journey into alternative medicine here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about homeopathy?
What are the key points of homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a diverse subject and a form of alternative medicine which can be used to treat a wide range of complaints and illnesses. One of the bases by which homeopathy works is the belief of a vital energy force within the body, if this energy force becomes disrupted then illness rears its end. The basis behind homeopathy is to stimulate the healing process that the body has naturally, thus restoring the imbalance of energy and eliminating illness and disease.
Those who practise homeopathy believe that “like cures like”, meaning that if something is thought to be making a person ill then whatever it is, is given in very small amounts to build up tolerance. For example if someone was suffering from hay fever then small amounts of pollen or allergens would be introduced as a way of building up tolerance to them.
While there have been many explanations as to why homeopathy works, very few have been scientifically proven, if any. However this doesn’t stop a wide majority of people from believing in homeopathy and swearing that it has helped where more traditional medicine has failed.
More recently when research was conducted into homeopathy, some studies suggested that there was no strong evidence that homeopathy actually worked while others suggested that there were positive effects, however they couldn’t be scientifically explained.
What exactly is homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a total healthcare system which has been built upon theory and practise. This means that any remedy given to a patient is only given after a full assessment of that individual; it is based upon the individual as a whole taking into account many factors and the symptoms of the illness or problem.
When making a diagnosis the homeopath will take into account the persons physical symptoms, lifestyle, emotions and mental state before reaching any conclusion. On the basis everyone when been treated by homeopathic medicine will be treated as an individual and as such the remedy for the illness will vary from person to person even if the same symptoms are present.
Does a homeopath have to have any special training?
Just as a Doctor of traditional medicine has to have training then so does one specialising in homeopathic medicine. In European countries a primary professional degree is pursed and this takes around 3 to 6 years to complete, it can also be undertaken as post graduate training for Doctors.
What are the homeopathic remedies?
All homeopathic remedies rely on totally natural substances; these substances either come from animal, mineral or plant material. They are diluted and are often prescribed in tablet, pellet or liquid form.