Homeopathy
Homeopathy is based on the theory that the cause of an illness is similar to its cure. Thus, treatment involves giving a small amount of a very diluted natural substance that, if taken in larger doses, would cause the same symptoms as the ailment itself.
WHEN IT IS USED
Homeopaths claim to treat virtually all conditions, but most concede that their methods work best against chronic disorders such as headaches, allergies, intestinal disease, and asthma. Remedies are often prescribed as an adjunct to other alternative procedures, such as acupuncture and chiropractic. Most homeopaths recommend that conventional medicine also be used for injuries, infections, and cancer and other serious diseases. In these cases, homeopathy is considered an adjunct to enhance the effect of conventional medicine.
HOW IT WORKS
Even the most enthusiastic proponents of homeopathy are not sure exactly how it works. Practitioners believe that symptoms are an expression of the body’s attempt to heal itself. Therefore, they seek the substance that produces in healthy people the symptoms experienced in the illness.
Homeopathic medicines are prepared by a series of dilutions. An extract is mixed with 100 times as much water or water and alcohol, shaken energetically, then diluted again. Shaking between each dilution is essential; substances that are diluted without the shaking do not work. This process is repeated until it is impossible to discover any trace of the original extract. Practitioners claim that the more diluted the remedy, the more effective it will be. They ascribe its effectiveness to the transmission of “vital energy” that resonates within the patient’s body. Some assume that confidence in the healer can also improve the patient’s condition.
PRECAUTIONS
- Beware of extravagant claims by any practitioner who holds out the promise of a cure for a serious condition that is unresponsive to conventional treatment.
- If your symptoms haven’t been alleviated in one or two homeopathic visits, it’s time to see your physician.
- A large number of homeopathic guides and remedies can be found in health food stores. Such self-treatment should be confined to minor ailments.
