What is Homeopathy?

Homeopathy is a system of medicine which helps the body heal itself by using a remedy (medicine) that matches each persons unique symptoms.

A homeopath does not treat a disease itself, we treat the people who are suffering from diseases. This contrasts with conventional medicine where a “disease” is diagnosed from a group of symptoms and then there is an attempt to treat those symptoms to eradicate them.

Homeopaths regard symptoms as an attempt by the body’s defence mechanism to overcome a disease disturbance. The symptoms are the outward sign of an inner disturbance and are not the disease itself. Homeopathy works by encouraging this natural, automatic immune response in the gentlest and safest way to overcome an illness.

How does Homeopathy work?   Homeopathy was developed in the early 1800's by a German doctor, Samuel Hahnemann, who had found the medicinal practices of his day both cruel and ineffective.  Through careful experimentation and analysis, Hahnemann worked out a new system that was kinder and effective.

Based on the principle of ‘like cures like’ Hahnemann experimented with many substances and found what produces symptoms in a healthy person can cure those same symptoms in a person who is ill.    Take, for example, the effect that cutting an onion can have on a healthy person.  It causes a runny nose, burning watery eyes and sneezing.  When onion is made into the homeopathic remedy, Allium Cepa, it can help a person who has a cold or allergic reaction to relieve these same symptoms.    The Consultation   A lot of people come to homeopathy with a physical complaint, however, homeopathy is a holistic therapy and we will discuss all sorts of things relating to the mind, body and emotions.  I will ask you to tell me about your past medical history and that of your family, your life style, likes and dislikes, energy levels, what makes you happy and what makes you sad or angry and much more. All these things help me get to know you as well as your symptoms to aid in the selection of a remedy that is the closest match to all of your symtoms.   Everything we discuss is confidential.  The first consultation lasts about 90 minutes and follow up consultations between 30 and 45 minutes.   I then work with what you have told me and post the remedy to you after a few days.