health through understanding...

About homeopathy

First conceived of over 200 years ago, homeopathy is currently one of the two most popular systems of medicine in the world. Homeopathy is a non-toxic, gentle and effective way of ameliorating illness and relieving the discomfort associated with a wide variety of health issues.

What can homeopathy treat?
Homeopathy is helpful in addressing a wide range of mental, emotional and physical problems, both acute and chronic.

The gentle nature of homeopathy means that it is suitable for a wide range of people, including pregnant women, babies, children and older people.

Homeopathy can be used alongside conventional medications as it does not interfere with their action. Some of my clients have found they are able to reduce their dependence on prescribed medications, such as painkillers, after homeopathic treatment.

There is a wealth scientific evidence to support the use of homeopathy in a wide range of situations. For more information please follow the link to the British Homeopathic Association website.

How does it work?
Homeopathy works by stimulating the healing potential, or vital force, of a person to overcome unwanted symptoms and regain balance. A homeopath works with the person to discover the unique nature of their symptoms and then prescribes a remedy to match.

It is described as holistic as, unlike conventional medicine, homeopathy takes into account all aspects of a person, i.e. mental, emotional and physical symptoms, rather than focusing treatment on a specific part of the body.

Homeopathic remedies work according to the Law of Similars, which simply means that a substance that causes particular symptoms when given in high doses to a healthy person may also relieve similar symptoms in an unwell person.

How are homeopathic remedies prepared?
Homeopathic remedies are prepared from a wide range of substances, including plants and minerals. The remedies are potentised to ensure that they are completely safe and have no side effects. Potentisation describes the process of serial dilution and vigorous shaking that invests the homeopathic remedy with the healing properties of the original substance.

Just how this happens is still the subject of much discussion although recent research suggests that substances can leave an electromagnetic trace even when diluted beyond the point at which there is any substance left.

What should I expect from my first consultation?
Homeopathic treatment is tailored to the individual so during the first consultation you will be encouraged to talk in detail about your symptoms and past medical history. It is important for me, as your homeopath, to learn as much about you as possible so that I can prescribe the remedy that most closely matches your symptoms.

The first consultation generally takes about one hour. You should bring details of all medications you are currently taking and call to mind any past medical procedures or illnesses. You will then be prescribed a remedy and invited to return for a follow-up appointment usually four to six weeks later. Follow-up appointments take up to 45 minutes.

Homeopathy is not a quick fix so, depending on how long you have been unwell, it may take a number of consultations to address your symptoms. For an informal chat about your symptoms and what you can expect from homeopathy, give me (Sarah) a call on 0161 224 8248.