An Introduction to Homoeopathy
Although it was first described by Hippocrates 2,500 years ago, Homoeopathy as it is practised today evolved 200 years ago thanks to Samuel Hahnemann.
The word comes from the Greek and means similar suffering. This refers to the central philosophy 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 usually experiences watering eyes and irritation. However, the substances are given in minute doses to avoid unwanted side effects, making them safe to use even in situations where conventional drugs would be dangerous or inadvisable (e.g.during pregnancy or when treating infants).
The Law of Similars
The Law of Similars means matching the symptom picture of an illness or injury to the symptom picture of the homoeopathic remedy.
The Law of Minimum Dose
The Law of Minimum Dose means using as little of the remedy as possible to stimulate the body's own healing mechanism. Give one dose and wait to see what relief it brings. If things begin to improve do not repeat the dose unless the case stops improving before a full recovery is reached, or the same symptoms return (i.e. the case relapses). If the symptoms change significantly select a new remedy to fit the new picture. If in any doubt, wait. Giving the body more of a remedy than it needs will not improve or speed up the action of the remedy, if anything it may stop it from being effective.
To help you in your selection of the most appropriate remedy, we have published our own 28 page full colour self-help booklet,
"A Basic Guide to Homoeopathy." This outlines the application of a wide range of remedies and gives examples of common complaints and minor injuries that can be treated at home.
Click this link for a brief description of the self-help use of homeopathic remedies in our kits and dispensers.
Taking the Medicines
Homceopathic medicines are delicate and need careful handling. Touch them as little as possible. The pill should be tipped into the bottle cap or onto a clean palm and transferred to the mouth allowing it to dissolve under the tongue. If possible give the dose half an hour before or after eating or drinking, cleaning your teeth or smoking. Obviously this does not apply in an emergency where it should be give as soon as possible. You can crush and dissolve remedies in water and sip them, but do not swallow the pill down with water, tea or coffee.
Other Factors to Consider:
Antidoting
Certain substances are known to antidote homocopathic remedies in some people. It is therefore advisable to avoid these substances if possible: Coffee (including decaffeinated) mint (notably in toothpaste), camphor, menthol, eucalyptus (often found in vapour rubs and cold remedies).
Storage of Remedies
Homoeopathic remedies last indefinitely if they are stored correctly. Keep in a cool, dark place away from strong odours for example, camphor, menthol, moth balls, soaps, essential oils, perfumes etc.
Safety First
Serious injuries and illness should never be treated without seeking expert advice. Use your instincts and common sense. If you are worried call for help first, then give the appropriate remedy whilst you are waiting for help to arrive. In cases which are less serious or urgent, if symptoms show no improvement or if they return always seek professional help. If you already see a homoeopath regularly, please discuss self prescribing with them.
As with all medicines, keep out of reach and sight of children.
