Created by a German physician during the 18th century, homeopathic remedies or homeopathic medicines can be an alternative to traditional treatments. While the application of these options has gradually fallen off with the introduction of new conventional drugs, there are still many substances which are currently being used as homeopathic treatments. So what are homeopathic remedies? How do they work? Keep reading to find the answers.
What are Homeopathic Medicines?
As said above, these are an alternative form of conventional medicine. They are mainly made from natural sources such as animal products, minerals, herbs, and plants. These ingredients will be crushed thoroughly, dissolved in water or alcohol, and then undergoes an extended process of diluting for the final products. In general, the more diluted the substances, the more powerful they are. Most homeopathic products are available in tablet or pellet form.
Basic Principles of Homeopathic Remedies
In general, homeopathic remedies are produced based on three fundamental principles:
Like Cures Like:
This principles means that a disease could be treated by a substance which causes typical symptoms of that condition.
Single Remedy:
In this principle, a single remedy would cover all of the mental, emotional, and physical signs of a disease combined.
Minimum Dose:
In the first few doses of the substances, a patient only needs a small amount, then followed by a tiny amount in the next stages.
How are Homeopathic Remedies Selected?
Instead of prescribing particular remedies for specific diseases, homeopathic physicians typically choose medicines based on unique symptoms of each patient. Thus, when selecting a medicine for a patient, the homeopathic physician would often carry out a thorough interview, about both emotional and mental state, so that she or he can fully find out individual signs of the patient. Similarly, the labels on most homeopathic products often show the specific symptoms and signs which they are produced to treat. A common use of homepathic remedies is used to treat different mental health issues.
Applications of Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathic remedies might be used in treating many health issues. These include:
- Anxiety/Fears
- Allergies
- ADD/ADHD
- Arthritis/Musculoskeletal Pain
- Behavioral Issues
- Depression/Grief
- Digestive Issues
- Headaches/Migraines
- Minor injuries and burns
- Recovery and Rehab following surgery and trauma
- Respiratory Issues
- Frequent Illness
- Severe Constipation or Diarrhea
- Sleep Issues
- PTSD/Trauma
- Vertigo/Dizziness
- PMS/Menopause/Women’s Issues
- Stress
Safety and Side Effects of Homeopathic Remedies
In general, homeopathic remedies typically come with a reasonable profile of safety because they only contain a small number of active substances. Those people who are during pregnancy or getting treatment for a severe health issue should consult their doctor before using homeopathic products.
Keep in mind that homeopathic remedies can’t replace the needs for conventional medicines for most conditions. Those most of these options are unlikely to be harmful when combined with other conventional treatments, you should still consult with your healthcare provider before start using.
The Bottom Line
So, what are homeopathic remedies? They are an alternative form of conventional medicine and are mainly made from natural sources such as animal products, minerals, herbs, and plants. Keep in mind that homeopathic products aren’t regulated by the same efficacy and safety testing as OTC and prescription drugs. Thus, consult your doctor carefully before deciding to use them for any treatments, especially for children, nursing mothers, or pregnant women.