Homeopathy: an introduction
About the author
Elaine Webb BA(Hons) SDSHom RSHom, gained her licence to practise after 4 years training at the South Downs School of Homeopathy, and was additionally awarded her registered status by The Society of Homeopaths after rigorous academic and clinic assessment. Her special interests are treatment of both eczema and infertility.
Elaine has held consultations in her home town of Chichester, Sussex since 1999 but her patients also travel from as far as Devon for example, for treatment. In addition she holds phone and email consultations worldwide.
01243 782432
www.chihom.co.uk
What is homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a holistic healing system using medicines derived from naturally occurring substances. It has been used effectively worldwide, for over 200 years, to treat babies, children, adults and animals.
The medicines address deviations in the flow of our life energy that can ultimately lead to physical symptoms in our material body. Although our energy is invisible, we can observe its effects on our body when we become unwell and as our life energy changes, so does our health.
The eighteenth century doctor Samuel Hahnemann founded homeopathy by realising that he could achieve dramatically better results by using remedies that had been greatly diluted, vigorously shaken or 'succussed', and prescribed on the principle of 'like curing like'. The immensely powerful energy of the substance was unleashed and when matched to the energy state of the patient, produced astounding healing results.
Homeopathy has gained in popularity over the years. Many pharmacies now sell a modest selection of homeopathic remedies in tablet form (not to be confused with herbal) that can be used for minor, acute complaints. More serious, chronic conditions benefit from professional treatment. The remedies are safe to use with no capacity to produce side effects and can be used alongside conventional medicines if necessary.
What happens at a consultation?
A first appointment for a chronic complaint, usually lasts 60-90 mins. This gives you sufficient time to describe your problem in depth. The homeopath's aim is to understand how your illness affects you physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, in order to build up a picture of your whole state in a holistic sense. There is no set pattern to a consultation - much depends on your individual circumstances, but topics covered are likely to include specific characteristics of the complaint(s), possible causes, any stresses, traumas or upsets experienced, lifestyle issues, medical history, sleep patterns and energy levels. There may also be a superficial physical examination if appropriate.
A remedy will then be dispensed, usually at the time of the consultation. It will consist of one or several pills to be taken over a period of time. The pills are tasteless and are sucked then chewed, rather than swallowed with water.
The aim of homeopathy is to cure the illness or at least give long term improvement, so that no medication (including homeopathic) is ultimately necessary.
What happens next?
A follow-up appointment is usually arranged 4-6 weeks later, when progress is assessed and remedies again prescribed if necessary. The length of treatment may depend on the duration and depth of the problem.
What illnesses can homeopathy treat?
Homeopathy treats people as opposed to symptoms! As their life energy improves, their physical symptoms diminish and finally are cured. Therefore, people with a wide range of health problems benefit from the treatment. However, we do know that individual energy states that result in asthma, eczema and other skin complaints, hormonal conditions, infertility, depression and joint problems are among those that commonly respond very well.
How much will it cost?
In the UK, a first appointment for an adult usually costs between £50-£70 (and a follow-up £25-45), inclusive of remedies. Homeopathic colleges also hold low-cost clinics, where students practise under supervision and charge considerably less. There are some homeopathic hospitals throughout the UK and treatment may be available under the NHS.
It is advisable that any homeopath you consult in the UK is licensed. A minimum qualification is commonly obtained after a 3 year full time or 4 year part time course.
