homeopathy
what can homeopathy treat?
As a homeopath I do not diagnose, treat or prescribe for any particular symptom, disease or condition. Instead, I work on increasing the general vitality and constitutional strength of those who come for treatment. Homeopathy may be able to help you whether your symptoms are:
- Mainly related to your physical body (e.g. constipation, headaches, eczema or acne, joint problems, asthma)
- Mainly related to your mind (e.g. weak memory, poor concentration)
- Mainly emotional (e.g. stress, depression, low confidence, irritability, obsessive/ compulsive behaviour, mood swings, anger or grief, social and other anxieties and fears)
- A mixture of these (e.g. irritable bowel syndrome, addictions, PMT, complaints relating to the menopause, panic attacks)
Here are just a few of the complaints homeopathy may treat successfully:
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what are the remedies made from?
Homeopathic remedies are a unique, potentised energy medicine made from non-toxic micro-doses of diluted plant, mineral and other natural substances. They are prepared by homeopathic pharmacies via a highly specialised process that removes any toxic properties, leaving only the powerful curative effects behind. Unlike many pharmaceutical drugs, homeopathic remedies are safe, non-toxic, non-habit forming, and are not tested on animals, and have been thoroughly tried and tested on healthy subjects. They usually take the form of small white sugar-based pills, although may be prescribed in liquid form.
how long does a consultation take?
For an adult, the first consultation lasts up to 1.5 hours. Subsequent follow-up consultations are usually monthly and last up to 45 minutes. For a child the first consultation is up to an hour, and follow-ups are up to 30 minutes.
why does the first consultation take so long?
In order to make the best prescription for you, I need to understand your case in depth. This means that I will need to take a detailed case history, asking questions relating to your health condition, as well as your life in general including work, family, hobbies, significant emotional events, your personal and family medical history, and any medication or supplements you are currently taking. Everything you say will be treated in the strictest confidence.
how soon can I expect to feel better?
As with conventional medicine, finding the very best homeopathic medicine for an individual can take time. Homeopathy is not a quick fix, and every person will react differently to a remedy, some more quickly than others, so it is difficult to predict just how long it will take for a satisfactory improvement to take place. Some patients experience significant improvement after just one or two visits. As a guide, acute complaints tend to respond quickly to homeopathic treatment, whereas complaints of some years standing are slower to respond, and may require several follow-up visits.
do I have to be unwell to benefit from homeopathic treatment?
Although most people who visit a homeopath feel unwell in some way, you don't need to be ill as such. Homeopathy can be used to successfully treat a whole range of mental and emotional issues, including shyness, lack of confidence, relationship problems, anxiety, depression, grief, shock, or just not feeling quite yourself. Or you may have a problem that recurs every year such as hay fever, and wish to tackle it before the season starts. If you are planning a baby, a good time to come for homeopathic treatment is a few months before you start trying to conceive. Ensuring that you and your partner are in tip top health provides the best investment in your baby's future health.
Many of my patients who have done well on homeopathic treatment come back every 6 months or so for an "MOT". This is a great way to maintain your health and vitality, and insure against ill health in the future.
what happens once treatment starts?
After taking the remedy you may notice a few changes. Some patients experience a period of exceptional well being and optimism. Occasionally symptoms may seem to intensify for a short time, or old symptoms may recur; this is a welcome sign as it means the remedy is acting. A rash or discharge may appear, indicating that your body is having a "spring-clean". If left alone, these reactions generally only last a short time, and are usually followed by a marked improvement in your overall state of health. Homeopathic remedies often take a few weeks to have their full effect, which is why follow-up visits are usually 4-5 weeks apart.
what do I do if I am feeling unwell between visits?
Homeopathy relies on good communication between practitioner and patient, so it is important to let me know if there are any changes in your symptoms after taking a remedy that concern you. I am contactable on my home practice number week-days during office hours. If you have an emergency outside of these times, you may wish to contact the Homeopathic Helpline which is open 7am-midnight 7 days a week, 365 days a year, on 09065 343404. Calls cost £1.50 a minute. A minimum prescription charge of £5 is made for any remedies required between appointments, but this can often be avoided if you have invested in a homeopathic first-aid kit, please contact me if you would like to purchase one.
what about my GP?
Homeopathy is complementary to conventional medicine and works well alongside most prescription drugs. I believe in working together with all healthcare professionals in order to provide the best care for my patients. Please tell your GP or consultant if you are taking homeopathic remedies, as they may need to revise your prescription if your health status significantly improves. Never stop taking any prescribed medication without first speaking to your GP or consultant.
can I have acupuncture while I am taking a homeopathic remedy?
Please let me know if you are currently having, or are considering having acupuncture treatment as both acupuncture and homeopathy are "energy" therapies and it may be counterproductive to pursue both at the same time.
I have heard that I can antidote my remedy, is that true?
Generally, you shouldn't worry about "antidoting" your homeopathic remedies. However, there are certain substances which have been shown to interfere with the healing effects of homeopathic remedies so it is sensible to avoid these while you are receiving homeopathic treatment. It is advisable to stay away from strong aromatic oils such as eucalyptus and camphor (in ointments such as Tiger Balm, Vicks Vapour Rub etc.). Peppermint in ordinary toothpastes and mouth washes is not a problem, neither is mild chewing gum, but the stronger peppermints (like Extra Strong Mints) are best avoided.
can I drink coffee while I am seeing a homeopath?
Many people can tolerate a moderate amount of coffee and have no difficulty with drinking one cup a day. However, some people are sensitive to it and find their nervous systems over stimulated by even a small amount, which affects their vitality and healing response. If you fit into this category then you might consider cutting out coffee for the duration of your treatment. Please let me know if you drink coffee, especially if you drink more than one cup a day.
where can I get further information?
Further information about homeopathy may be obtained from:
The Society of Homeopaths, 11 Brookfield, Duncan Close, Moulton Park, Northampton, NN3 6WL
Tel 0845 4506611 www.homeopathy-soh.com