Homeopathy: What You Need To Know

First, what is homeopathy? 

Homeopathy isn’t just another natural way of treating conditions – it’s a complete medicine system in its own right. First developed in Germany in the late 18th century by physician Samuel Hahnemann, homeopathy works in harmony with the body’s immune system and triggers or intensifies the body’s own healing mechanisms. Homeopathy sees the body as intelligent and able to heal itself. Symptoms aren’t covered up – as they are with some conventional medicines – but rather, the body is given a gentle push to heal itself. 

But how exactly does it work? 

The word homeopathy comes from the Greek, meaning ‘similar suffering’. As Lisa Granditer, homeopath at The Organic Pharmacy explains, “Homeopathy is based on the principle of ‘like treats like’ – that is, a substance which can cause symptoms when taken in large doses can be used in small amounts to treat similar symptoms. For example, drinking too much coffee can cause sleeplessness and agitation, but when made into a homeopathic medicine, it can be used to treat those suffering from insomnia and anxiety.” Granditer explains that this concept is sometimes used in conventional medicine (the stimulant Ritalin, for example, is often used to treat patients with ADHD) although the difference with homeopathy is the medicinal doses, commonly referred to as remedies, are so small that toxic side-effects are avoided.

Is there any science to show homeopathy actually works?

There’s a growing body of research demonstrating its potential benefits – take a look at the Homeopathy Research Institute (HRI). Some smaller studies have suggested homeopathy has similar success rates to conventional medicine. As Carolyne Hallet, homeopath and soul therapist adds, “Homeopathy is widely accepted across the globe as a reputable therapy, included in the national health systems of dozens of countries, including Brazil, Chile, India, Mexico, Pakistan and Switzerland. Moreover, the likes of Usain Bolt, David Beckham and the Royal family have long been vocal advocates.” Like many other alternative therapies, homeopathy has come under criticism from the western medical world, but as Hallet says, “The people who attack homeopathy tend to ignore research because they struggle to understand how it works.”

What does a consultation involve? 

An appointment with a homeopath will delve into every aspect of your health. As Hallet explains, “Your first session will be around 60-90 minutes long and during that time we’ll chat through a detailed history of your health as well as lots of general questions about your sleep, diet and lifestyle as well as your personality. We are interested to know how you are in health as well as when you are unwell. Your remedies are then matched to your individual needs. For example, I may have five patients who come to me with PMS but they will all experience symptoms differently, so will be prescribed different remedies.”