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Is it safe?

	Homeopathic remedies are very safe and can be used
alongside conventional medicines. Because it is so safe homeopathy is often the treatment of choice for pregnant women. Similarly, it is safe for very young children and babies. There are no side effects and there is no danger of an overdose, you cannot become addicted to the remedies.

How does it work?

	Homeopathic medicines are called remedies. These remedies
work by acting as a stimulus to the natural healing process within the body to bring about a curative response and relieve the symptoms. Each remedy and potency (strength) is chosen to suit the individual and their illness.

How are remedies made?

The majority of homeopathic remedies are made from plant,

metal, mineral or animal origin e.g. rhododendron, gold, sodium chloride (salt), oyster. However it is the method of preparation which makes all homeopathic remedies safe, whatever their origin. Through a process of repeated dilution and succession (shaking the bottle), any toxic effects of the original substance are completely eradicated and only the curative properties remain. Because the active ingredient is so minute it is often referred to as the minimum dose. Remedies are usually given by mouth in the form of soluble tablets, powders or liquids.

Will homeopathy affect my drugs from my GP?

	Because of the way the remedies are prepared the person only
receives a minute dose. They are very safe and will not interact or interfere with the action of modern medical drugs.

Will I have to stop taking my drugs from my GP?

No. In some cases it is very dangerous to stop some

medications that your body has come to rely on e.g. diabetic insulin. With other conditions there may be a reaction to suddenly stopping a drug. As your symptoms are relieved/reduced during homeopathic treatment your homeopath will advise you to discuss your drug regime with your GP, with a view to reducing and possibly stopping some prescribed drugs. You should always inform your homeopath of any drugs you are currently taking.

What conditions can homeopathy treat?

People experiencing almost any health problem can be helped

with homeopathic treatment. It can also help people who “just don’t feel right”. Many people may have consulted a doctor and had various tests which are all clear while others can have vague symptoms and while not ill, the person does not feel well.

Homeopathy can boost energy levels and, in this respect, is an important form of preventive medicine which can help to correct early imbalances so that more serious conditions can be avoided.

While homeopathy treats many common complaints (see “List of common conditions that homeopathy can treat”) other diseases or syndromes can also be treated, including those without a name or a known cause. Homeopaths do not diagnose. If you want a diagnosis then please consult your GP.

Can homeopathy treat degenerative diseases?

While homeopathy cannot reverse degenerative changes such

as arthritis, diabetes and multiple sclerosis the remedies can help and support the person in many ways. Remedies can help with pain control, reduction of inflammation, boosting the persons immune system, boosting energy levels and raising their general level of health. In some instances they can slow down the rate of progress of the disease. With diabetes they can work preventively to reduce and delay the onset of related conditions such as vascular problems and diabetic retinopathy, as the homeopathy will help maintain good metabolic control.

Can homeopathy treat cancers?

Cancer is a very fearful disease and there is no miracle cure.

However, there is a lot that homeopathy can do to support the person. If desired the remedies may be used alongside conventional medication and they can help reduce some of the side effects produced by chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments.

Because the remedies support the person physically, mentally and emotionally, homeopathic treatment can reduce the fears and anxieties associated with this disease allowing the person to enjoy a better quality of life.

Remedies can be used after conventional treatments to raise the person’s level of health and work preventively to help reduce their susceptibility to recurring problems in the future.

How long will treatment last?

	This will vary from person to person and to some degree is
related to the length of time that you have had the problem. For instance a condition of 20 years standing will take longer to treat than a problem that someone has had for only a few months.

How often will I need to have a consultation?

	For most conditions, consultations normally take place at four
to six weekly intervals. This is long enough to evaluate the action of the remedy but not so long that the details of the changes have been forgotten. As you progress with treatment your homeopath will need to see you less frequently.

Where can I buy homeopathic remedies?

	Many first aid and self help remedies are available over the
counter in most chemists and health food stores. These should be regarded in the same way as conventional first aid and self help treatments. They should not be used to try and treat any chronic or long term conditions. In those cases you should seek the help of a qualified homeopath.

Is homeopathy available on the NHS?

	Homeopathy is available on the NHS but not necessarily in
your area. Check with your GP and Primary Care Trust