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What is Homeopathy? |
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Homeopathic treatment, like all truly natural therapies, seeks to stimulate the innate healing power of the individual so that all physiological systems function at their best. As the person moves toward his or her optimal level of general health, he or she feels better. Subsequently, specific symptoms improve as the strengthened body defenses become active. But the homeopathic remedy does not directly treat a symptoms or condition. Instead, it simply helps to initiate the process by which the person heals himself of herself. Totality of Symptoms The homeopath views a person’s health as a condition of the entire individual rather than in terms of isolated symptoms. Homeopaths do not diagnose disease or treat diseases. Remedies are selected that best correspond to the person’s total state of illness. Evaluation of the individual’s level of health and choice of the correct remedy does depend in part on a thorough understanding of all symptoms. But in addition, important indicators of general health, such as the level of vitality the person experiences and his or her emotional well-being, demand close attention. Law of Similars Homeopathy is based on the principle that “like helps like.” A remedy is chosen that is capable of causing, in a healthy person, symptoms similar to those of the sick person. The symptoms the sick person experiences are thus the most important guide to the choice of the correct remedy. Remedies Homeopathic remedies are usually made from plants and simple minerals. These substances are prepared by a process of repeated dilution and shaking, which makes them capable of stimulating the healing process. Remedies are given to stimulate the whole body to heal itself, while herbs and regular drugs and medicines are given to take away specific symptoms generally from specific parts of the body. Homeopathic remedies are made at special FDA regulated and approved homeopathic pharmacies according to very high standards of purity. There is no homeopathic pharmacy in Minnesota. Certain health food stores and food cooperatives carry remedies. Our staff has a list of such stores in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Minimum Dose As little remedy as possible is used. After a remedy is given, the individual’s response is carefully observed, and the remedy is changed only if necessary. Scope of Homeopathy Since homeopathy is used to assist people rather than to treat illness, anyone, whatever his or her diagnosis, can benefit from homeopathic care. Homeopathy helps by increasing the individual’s strength and resistance to disease. Homeopathy is not a substitute for good health habits. In the long run, health depends in good measure on eating well and exercising adequately, getting enough rest, dealing effectively with stress, and living creatively. Homeopathy cannot strengthen the system to heal itself of genetic problems. Also, homeopathy cannot help people who are continually exposing themselves to the very things that make them sick. For example, it won’t change a smoker’s cough, headaches from birth control pills, or depression from being in an emotionally hurtful situation. However, it can help strengthen people enough so that they are able to make helpful changes in their lifestyle. Homeopathy can make your pregnancy go more smoothly and help your baby be as healthy as possible. Be sure to inform your homeopath if you are pregnant. Acute Illness Homeopathic care is often effective during acute illness. Again, the remedies are not directed at removing symptoms or killing germs, but rather toward strengthening the person so that his or her own healing capacities work better. |
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