How Does Homeopathy Work?
Homeopathy is probably the most widely employed system of natural and alternative medicine worldwide. Contrary to popular belief, the science of homeopathy is quite distinct from other forms of natural therapy like Ayurveda and herbal healing- in fact; it is entirely the opposite in terms of principles and methodology.
Homeopathy has been looked upon with skepticism and suspicion by propagators of western medicine. Moreover, there is no concrete evidence or reliable scientific research to prove the efficacy of this system of medicine. Many have attributed the action of homeopathic formulations to a placebo effect. On the other hand, the popularity and widespread use of Homeopathy by millions of people worldwide cannot be disputed. As a result of long-standing debates, it is classified as a “pseudo-sciences” for now.
Homeopathy works on the principle of “like cures like”. The system uses elements that cause the same symptoms of the disease to be treated and provoke the body to defend itself against those systems. In other words, it encourages the body’s own defense mechanism to kick in and self-treat itself. This methodology however, should not be confused with vaccination which requires the use of actual disease causing agents. Homeopaths emphasize most on a holistic approach and individualization of treatment. They believe that a single symptom may result from a variety of underlying causes and that only a tailor-made formulation can achieve desired results. The “remedy” or the active ingredient is diluted in a mother tincture, which may be alcohol or water, to a degree that it is hardly traceable in the solution. Homeopaths claim that a higher level of dilution enhances the potency of the remedy. The mechanism however, remains to be explained.
Homeopathic medicines are usually transparent fluids or sugar droplets soaked in a prepared tincture. Individuals who have been undergoing homeopathic treatment first report an elevation of symptoms followed by relief or an alteration in symptoms. Subsequent modes of treatment depend entirely on the body’s individual response. Usually a small dose is enough to alleviate symptoms.
Though Homeopathy has no known side-effects, one must guard against over-prescribing as it can cause ambiguity in symptoms that need to be targeted. Though many homeopathy preparations are available off the shelves, it is always advisable to consult a homeopathic practitioner for a customized treatment. For diseases that can eventually lead to morbidity or mortality, it is suggested that you keep a specialist informed about your treatment and progress.
Homeopathy is a safe, natural and gentle form of therapy but it’s efficacy in independently in treating major diseases and disorders, still remains to be known.
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