Short Introduction to Homeopathy

A Short Introduction to Homeopathy

Homeopathy literally means to “treat with a similar disease.” Today’s traditional medical professional uses the allopathic method, which means to “treat with other than the disease.”

The Homeopathic Method

Homeopathic methods are considered less invasive than allopathic methods, though sometimes they can be used together. Most allopathic physicians will not employ homeopathic methods in their treatment programs, especially if the patient is taking many prescription drugs. The problems that can arise from drug interaction with herbal remedies can be life threatening. Physicians that do learn about homeopathic methods, and believe they work, will often get a degree in homeopathic medicine and thus become a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.

A homeopathic practitioner will create a remedy based on your symptoms. The treatment, comprised of various herbs, will be given in very small doses diluted with water. Treatments may also be made into a topical salve or be administered using aromatherapy. The smallest dose needed to treat a person will always be used. Only one remedy is ever used at one time no matter how many symptoms are present. If the remedy doesn’t work, the homeopathic practitioner will change the remedy and begin the treatment once again. This will continue until a remedy that works is found.

Quackery or Miracle?

The jury is still out on whether homeopathic medicine works or not. Many traditional allopathic doctors believe that homeopathy is quackery. Those traditional doctors that have seen beneficial effects from Asian inspired medicine are more inclined to allow patients to take homeopathic remedies. Traditional physicians are also aware that some homeopathic remedies may adversely affect FDA approved medications given to their patients. Because of this, patients should always let their doctors know of any over the counter or homeopathic remedies they are taking.

People that have experienced miraculous recoveries based on their ingestion of homeopathic remedies swear by them. There has been no scientific evidence given to most holistic therapies, so people that take them do so at their own risk. The Federal Drug Administration usually takes years to approve any remedy, and they are most likely to approve medicines that have been researched thoroughly. In the meantime, there is no shortage of homeopathic practitioners and remedies readily available around the world.

A Homeopathic Practitioner’s Education

People seeking a degree in homeopathy require more than a short introduction to homeopathy before they practice on real people. Most individuals that seek a degree in this field spend several years learning about different herbs and what each herb can do when mixed with other herbs. They may also learn other types of medical practices, such as Eastern acupuncture and Shamanism.

Holistic practitioners usually work with other more knowledgeable practitioners before they strike out on their own, learning the proper way to prepare herbal remedies. It is also important to note that homeopathic practitioners not only treat humans, but many treat animals as well.

Degrees and Certifications

Typical degrees in homeopathy include the following:

• Bachelor, Master or Doctor of Science in Natural Health
• Bachelor, Master or Doctor of Philosophy in Holistic Nutrition
• Master of Arts in Holistic Wellness
• Doctor of Naturopathy
• Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (must already be a practicing physician)

There are also a many certifications in homeopathy. The following represent just a few offered at homeopathic schools:

• Iridology
• Family Herbalist
• Holistic Care for Companion Animals
• Natural Wellness
• Consulting and Master Herbalist

Buyer Beware

Homeopathic remedies are comprised of various herbs that are mixed together by people who claim to have the knowledge required to make them. Since so many people who have degrees in homeopathy received them through the mail, and not in traditional accredited institutions, their experience should always be suspect. People that purchase homeopathic remedies should do a little research on the herbs they are ingesting before they begin taking them, and always insist on knowing everything that is in an herbal mixture that they purchase.