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Homeopathy
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Homeopathy is a therapeutic system using very low dose preparations which are selected according to the principle that 'like should be cured with like.' The cure of symptoms and eventually the disease is brought about by administering substances which produce symptoms similar to those which the person is experiencing. In other words, a substance that produces symptoms highly similar to the disease may also cure it. For example the homeopathic remedy Allium cepa is derived from the common onion. Contact with raw onions typically causes lacrimation, stinging and irritation around the eyes and nose, and clear nasal discharge. Allium cepa might be prescribed to patients with hay fever, especially if both nose and eyes are affected." Which patients or conditions might benefit? Homeopathy is used to treat a wide range of acute and chronic physical and emotional illness. Where a condition is beyond the scope of the body's normal self repair mechanism, treatment is less likely to be curative, but may be palliative. Categories of conditions that homeopaths usually treat include the following: -where there is no known diagnosis and tests are normal but the patient feels unwell -for those with chronic disease, especially where there may be poor prognosis without an alternative approach -those where drug treatments are poorly tolerated or contra indicated -those who suffer from repeated episodes of acute illnesses. Whilst there is evidence of the overall effectiveness of homeopathy ...... specific conditions for which there is the best evidence of effectiveness are those where there is an allergic component e.g. asthma, rhinitis and hayfever. There is also evidence of effectiveness in the treatment of influenza. Qualifications The Faculty of Homeopathy regulates the training and practice of homeopathy by medically qualified doctors, vets and other health care professionals. There is a published list of doctors who are members of the Faculty. The most experienced homeopathic physicians have gained the qualifications FFHom (Fellow of the Faculty of Homeopathy) or MFHom (Member of the Faculty of Homeopathy). The qualification LFHom (Licensed Associate of the Faculty of Homeopathy) indicates a doctor who has passed the Primary Health Care Examination and may use homeopathy in a limited way for minor ailments. They are not in a position to provide a specialist homeopathic opinion. Non medically qualified homeopaths -there is currently no single registering body. The Society of Homeopaths is the largest organisation representing specialist homeopaths. All homeopaths registered with the Society (RSHom) practise in accordance with a Code of Ethics and Practice, hold professional insurance and have passed academic and clinical assessments before being admitted to the Register. The Society offers advice on employing a homeopath in general practice settings. Finding a therapist Medically qualified homeopaths and other statutorily regulated healthcare professionals The Faculty of Homeopathy has a network of advisors around the country who are pleased to offer advice to PCGs, health authorities, individual clinicians and members of the public about homeopathic issues including advice on finding a local practitioner. The internet site contains general information about homeopathy including the evidence base for homeopathy and has a searchable database of practitioners. Further information is available from: Faculty of Homeopathy 15 Clerkenwell Close London EC1 R OAA Tel: 020 7566 7810 website: www.trusthomeopathy.org Non medically qualified homeopaths The Society of Homeopaths is a source of general information as well as offering advice about finding a local practitioner. Their internet site includes a searchable database of therapists who are registered with the society. Further information is available from: The Society of Homeopaths 4a Artizan Road Northampton NN1 4HU Tel: 01604 621400 website: www.homeopathy-soh.org
Clinical Notes From Private Family Doctor
Homeopathy as it is practiced today evolved 200 years ago - although it was first described by Hippocrates 2,500 years ago.The central philosophy is that a substance that can produce symptoms in a healthy person, can cure those symptoms in a sick person. For example, a person suffering from hay fever might be given a remedy prepared from an onion, because a healthy person chopping an onion commonly experiences watering eyes and irritation. The concept of diluting and succussing (shaking and striking against a surface) was developed by a German homeopath called Hahneman who found that the diluted remedies acted faster and more effectively. It is now thought likely that the combined process of dilution and succussion leave an energy imprint of the original substance in the dilutant and that this energy imprint stimulates the body's own healing. Where do I purchase remedies? Most high street chemists and health food stores stock them. Alternatively there are mail order companies: Helios Tel: 01892 537254 www.helios.co.uk Ainsworths Tel: 020 79355330 How do I decide on the potency? First aid remedies are usually taken in either the 12C or 30C potency. Homeopaths prescribing constitutional remedies may prescribe higher potencies. How often do I take the remedy? Homeopathic prescribing varies enormously - causing great confusion. Aim at using the minimum necessary to stimulate the body's own healing mechanism. Take one dose and wait to see what relief it brings. If you have a reaction to the remedy (either an improvement or an aggravation of symptoms) do not take any more of it. Repeat the dose only if the symptoms remain or recur. If the symptoms change significantly select a new remedy to fit the new picture. If in doubt, wait. First aid remedies are often taken 1-3 times a day - if there is no improvement after 14 days the choice of remedy needs review. How do I take the remedy? Touch the remedy as little as possible. Drop it onto or under the tongue and allow to dissolve. Avoid having anything to eat or drink, cleaning your teeth or smoking half an hour before and after taking the remedy . You can crush and dissolve remedies in water- but do not swallow down whole. What is an aggravation? Reactions to remedies vary with the individual. Some experience a clear improvement early on. Others find that their symptoms worsen for a time - this is called an aggravation. What remedies can be used during childbirth? I suggest Arnica 200C taken four hourly from the onset of labour and for 48 hours after. If a tear occurs add hypericum 200C four hourly after the birth. How can I learn more about homeopathy? How do I know when I should see a doctor? Use your instincts and common sense. If you feel worried consult your doctor. Useful information to help you decide is found on ; www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or Tel: 0845 4647 (NHS Direct) SAFETY FIRST Serious injuries and illnesses should never be treated without seeking expert advice. Use your instincts and common sense- if you are worried call for help first and then give the appropriate remedy whilst waiting for assistance. Homeopathic remedies can be taken with other medication but do not attempt to reduce your other medication without supervision from your doctor. |