Have questions about homeopathy? Take a look at our FAQ
Welcome to our Q&A about homeopathy. It is, like life, a work in progress. We will be continuing to add to it as time goes by. If you have a question you would like answered and/or featured, do get in touch via the Contact Us page on the Think Homeopathy website.
Homeopathy is recognised as a safe, gentle and effective system of medicine which has been used for over 200 years. It is the second largest system of medicine in the world with 200 million people using it worldwide.
How does Homeopathy work?
Homeopathy works on the principle of the law of similars. The law states 'that which makes sick shall heal' – i.e. a substance which causes particular symptoms in a healthy person will cure those same symptoms in an ill person.
For example, drinking too much coffee can cause sleeplessness, so according to this principle, when made into a homeopathic medicine, it could be used to help people suffering from sleepless nights and the agitation that can sometimes accompany it.
The principle of treating 'like with like' dates back to Hippocrates (460-377BC) who was considered one of the most outstanding figures in the history of medicine. Paracelsus (1493-1541) also worked with the same theory.
What are homeopathic medicines made from?
Homeopathy is a holistic medicine which uses specially prepared highly diluted substances, found in nature, with the aim of triggering the body's own healing mechanisms.
Each remedy or medicine provides the minimum dose, so is therefore gentle, subtle and powerful. They are non-addictive, and not tested on animals.The fact that homeopathic medicines are so highly diluted means there is none of the original source material in them.
While homeopathy has been around for centuries, it may be a relatively new branch of science that will unlock its mysteries and explain how it works.
Quantum Physics is the branch of science that some believe may hold the key to explaining why homeopathy does have efficacy. https://www.theearthandi.org/post/can-homeopathy-be-explained-by-quantum-physics
Can I take a homeopathic remedy alongside my GP prescribed tablets?
Homeopathic remedies are compatible with other existing medication. Homeopathy is an energetic medicine – i.e. it is an energy level medicine not a chemical level medicine.
Do homeopathic remedies have side effects?
The remedies are non-toxic with no harmful side effects. After taking a remedy you may notice some changes. Some people experience feelings of increased energy and wellbeing. Sometimes symptoms may appear to worsen for a short time. This is a positive sign which shows the remedy is taking effect.
Sometimes your body may have an initial 'clear out' (for example a discharge may be experienced in the form of a cold). These reactions indicate to the homeopath that the self-healing process has begun. But of course, if you have any concerns contact your homeopath.
How long does it take for homeopathic medicines to act?
In acute conditions such as colds, sore throats etc homeopathic medicines usually will act quickly. In chronic or long-term diseases homeopathic medicines may start to work immediately, but may take considerably more time particularly if the condition has been around for some time. By way of a contrast, conventional prescription drugs act promptly but often only suppress the symptoms, while homeopathic medicines support the body's healing resources, which already naturally exist.
Are homeopathic remedies safe for children, babies and pregnant women?
Homeopathic remedies have an excellent safety record and over the years have been used at all ages. Many women use remedies throughout their pregnancy and birth. Common problems in both pregnancy and childbirth such as nausea, back pain, indigestion, heartburn, emotional distress etc can all be helped.
For homeopathy to work do you have to believe in it?
No, although of course trust is important in any therapist-patient relationship whether conventional or homeopathic.
Here are some compelling examples highlighting how homeopathy might work despite our beliefs:
Babies: Homeopathic medicines have often been used by parents for common disorders such as colic, teething pain and infections.
Animals: There are many vets using homeopathic medicines to treat domestic as well as livestock animals such as cows.
Why can some old symptoms return after taking a homeopathic remedy?
The 'return of old symptoms' signifies that the homeopathic remedy has stimulated the Vital Force to heal not only the current issue, but also to address suppressed layers of ill-health accumulated over time.
All living beings possess an intrinsic force that sustains and directs life. This force is a form of energy responsible for all biophysical and biochemical processes, distinguishing living from non-living matter. The force enables all living beings to self-heal and adapt to environmental changes. In humans, it orchestrates the harmonious functioning of various body systems, similar to how a conductor directs an orchestra to create a cohesive musical piece. https://homeopathyplus.com/tutorial-7-the-vital-force/
Can you prescribe for yourself?
Yes, everyone can address simple common acute conditions by self-administering homeopathic medicines. Here is a good website with useful recording to help you:
Evidence for homeopathy
There is plenty of research and evidence that show the benefits of homeopathy – follow this website link for more information
https://www.hri-research.org/hri-research/
Or if you prefer, watch this 4 minute clip from the Homeopathy Research Institute.
The Science
'As yet science has not been able to explain the precise mechanism of action of ultra high dilutions in the body. Although homeopathy has been criticised for this, knowing how a medicine works has never been a pre-requisite for its use. For example, aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is one of the most widely used drugs in the world, yet it was used for over 70 years before its mechanism of action was discovered in 1971.' Society of Homeopaths
Is Google a useful source for homeopathy?
Unfortunately, Google is not a useful source on homeopathy - it always throws up, and gives prominence to, sites that give a negative slant on homeopathy and homeopathic remedies.
As a starting point, for supportive information take a look at these
sites:
https://homeopathy-soh.org/
https://hint.org.uk/
https://www.hri-research.org/
https://www.facultyofhomeopathy.org/
Could you study homeopathy?
Of course. There are a number of colleges running courses up and down the country. Also there are courses available online including https://chehomeopathy.com/about-che/
To find more courses, follow this link: https://homeopathy-soh.org/training-and-events/find-an-accredited-course/
If this document hasn't quite answered all of your questions, feel free to contact me
The information in this website, and in this document, is intended as general advice and is appropriate in most cases, but it is not tailored to specific circumstances or individuals. It should not be regarded as a replacement for medical diagnosis and treatment. If in doubt, seek professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors, omissions or action taken as a consequence of using the information given here.