Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine which is totally holistic and a is a total form of health care, the basics behind it relies on using minute doses of natural substances which have very few if any adverse reactions and treats the person on the whole, taking many factors into consideration.

Facts regarding homeopathy

Homeopathy has been used worldwide for over 200 years and is classed as a therapeutic form of medicine, it relies on the principle of like treating like, for example if you have an allergy to something, then the allergen would be used in very minute amounts in order to build up immunity to the allergen.

In order to avoid toxicity the substances are given very well diluted, this avoids any adverse reactions. Homeopathy is very often turned to by people who have tried everything that traditional medicine has to offer and are still suffering. It is used for a wide variety of illnesses and conditions with remedies been prescribed on a patient to patient basis.

The practitioner is very much like a traditional Doctor in that they will give the patient a full consultation in the first instance. This will include taking a full history of the patient, a full examination and investigation, the patient’s lifestyle including diet is also taken into account during the examination.

Is homeopathy available on the National Health Service?

Homeopathy is a very popular form of alternative medicine and as such it is available on the NHS, it has been available since the NHS began in 1948. There is currently 5 homeopathic hospitals available on the NHS as well as Doctors who specialise in homeopathic medicine also being available in traditional hospitals.

How do I get a referral for homeopathic treatment?

If you wish to look into having homeopathic treatment then you should ask your Doctor for a referral, in a recent study around 40% of Doctors now provide access to homeopathic services on the NHS. Once your Doctor has referred you, you will be contacted to either attend a homeopathic hospital if there is one in your area or within travelling distance or attend a clinic.

While you do not have the right to demand treatment the majority of Doctors will eventually refer you if you persist in asking for a referral. If you do have any problems getting a referral for homeopathic medicine then you can get in touch with the patient advice and liaison service.

Can i teach myself homeopathy or use over the counter treatment?

There are many over the counter remedies which are regarded as homeopathic, over the counter remedies are sold at many health stores but it is essential that you understand how to use them properly.

While you can treat yourself, it is always advisable to get the advice of a specialist; while many of the remedies are made from natural ingredients they can still sometimes have adverse reactions. If you are taking any medication prescribed by your Doctor then it is essential that you seek the advice of your Doctor or health care worker before treating yourself with homeopathic remedies.