I am often asked by colleagues and clients what our family does when we are suddenly faced with acute health situations such as fevers, earaches, colds, and more. While I am not a medical doctor, I have spent a great amount of time figuring out and learning what works best for myself and my loved ones. I tend to prefer more “natural” and holistic treatments when possible, and homeopathy is typically at the top of my list of considerations.
What is homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a system of alternative medicine that was developed in the late 18th century by German physician Samuel Hahnemann. It is based on the principle of "like cures like," meaning that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can be used to treat similar symptoms in a sick person.
Central to homeopathy is the concept of potentization, where substances are repeatedly diluted and succussed (shaken vigorously) in a specific manner. Homeopathic remedies are highly diluted preparations of various substances, often to the point where no molecules of the original substance remain in the final product. Proponents believe that this process enhances the therapeutic properties of the substances while minimizing any potential side effects.
Simply put, homeopathy is an alternative form of treatment that takes natural substances like plants, minerals, and sometimes animal products that are precisely matched to a person’s individual characteristics and the symptoms they are experiencing. The substances are diluted over and over to create “pellets” (also referred to as remedies). The remedies seek to stimulate the person’s self-healing mechanisms in such a way that a gentle but permanent cure occurs over a period of time. (One example is the homeopathic remedy Allium Cepa [Red Onion]. This remedy is used to treat a runny nose and watery eyes from a cold or hay fever, the very symptoms it would cause if one were cutting a red onion in the kitchen.)
It is important to note that homeopathy can be used acutely (such as what I’m discussing today) or constitutionally (more of a long-term/“big picture” treatment). Generally speaking, acute treatment is often easier to self-treat, whereas constitutional care tends to require more of an expert in the field.
Is homeopathic treatment the same as holistic treatment?
These words are not synonymous. I often tell people that homeopathic treatment is a form of holistic treatment but that not all holistic treatments are homeopathic.
Why do I prefer homeopathy over conventional treatment?
Conventional medicine encompasses the use of pharmaceutical drugs, surgeries, and other evidence-based treatments to diagnose, prevent, and treat diseases and health conditions. It typically focuses on a specific area of a person’s body. With this type of treatment, there are risks of side effects, adverse reactions, as well as complications as a result of overuse and/or misuse.
Conversely, homeopathy has no side effects and aims to cure the whole body rather than just a single affected part. Homoeopathy supports our bodies’ innate abilities to heal. Further, all homeopathic medicines are suitable for people of all ages (which is certainly not the case for conventional treatments).
There are absolutely times when conventional care is warranted, but it is wonderfully empowering to know that other options exist! And although I have taken some basic coursework and have developed a better understanding of homeopathy through use and practice, I am thankful to also have access to a medical doctor who utilizes homeopathy. Our family has had MANY appointments for times when we have been unable to determine the best possible treatment on our own.
My kids prefer homeopathy as well
I have vivid memories of having to take certain medications as a child - I didn’t like the taste and I certainly didn’t like how long/how many times I had to take them. Because homeopathic pellets essentially taste like slightly sweetened tiny pills, I get no arguments from my children. In fact, I often have to remind them that the pellets are still medicine and that we only take them when medically necessary.
What are some of my favorite remedies?
Here are a few of the remedies/“pellets” that are most utilized in my home:
Belladonna - The words red, hot, and swollen are keywords for this remedy. This is a great remedy for fever, headache, and inflammation.
Hepar Sulphuris Calcareum (“Hepar Sulph”) - Colds, coughs, and sore throat are some common symptoms that may be alleviated by this remedy.
Arnica Montana (“Arnica”) - Used for bruises, contusions, and trauma.
Chamomilla - Used for colic, teething, and childhood irritability.
Pulsatilla - Helps loosen congestion and clears the head from colds and allergies.
Kali Bichromium - Helps with sinus headache with thick nasal discharge.
This is simply a TINY sample of homeopathic options. There are more than 8,000 homeopathic remedies available over the counter and most users self-prescribe products for common issues, such as cold symptoms or mild pain. I personally have a kit of 50 remedies in addition to some individually purchased remedies. My collection includes remedies from Olloïs, Boiron, and Washington Homeopathic Products, Inc. (WHP) to name a few.
Without getting too detailed, it's important to mention that there are different potencies for each remedy. The higher the number, the stronger the potency. Potencies up to 30 are generally considered low potency, up to 1000 are generally considered medium potency and above 1000 are considered high potency. Over the counter homeopathic products (OTC) are generally limited to low potencies. Prescription homeopathics can use low, medium or high potencies.
The frequency of dosing is dependent on the potencies of the ingredients. Lower potencies are often repeated more frequently and higher potencies, less frequently. The lower the potency, the more frequently the medicine typically needs to be re-administered. Also in acute or crisis situations, dosing can be more frequent. Dosage frequency varies considerably and can be found on the label. It is important to follow the dosing instructions on the label, unless directed otherwise by your healthcare practitioner.
Where does one purchase homeopathic remedies?
Thankfully, homeopathic remedies can be found at most health food stores, pharmacies, as well stores such as Amazon, Walmart, and Vitacost. Remedies can be purchased individually or in kits.
Are there any downsides to homeopathy?
Critics of homeopathy argue that the dilutions used are so extreme that the pellets are essentially just water or sugar pills and cannot have any therapeutic effect beyond a placebo. I can tell you, however, that our family has had great success with using it, far more than what a placebo effect could elicit.
Homeopathy is not always covered by health insurance, even when seeing a medical professional.
Homeopathy can be overwhelming at first! As with any alternative medicine, it is advised that individuals considering homeopathy, especially for the first time, consult with a qualified healthcare professional.
How can others get started?
If this topic appeals to you, take some time to do some research. Begin by learning more about homeopathy, its principles, and its potential benefits and limitations. There are many resources available, including books (such as The Family Guide to Homeopathy: Symptoms and Natural Solutions or Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines), websites, and reputable medical organizations, which can provide valuable information.
Consider scheduling a consultation with a qualified homeopathic practitioner. They can assess your health concerns, take a detailed medical history, and recommend appropriate homeopathic remedies tailored to your individual needs. Make sure to choose a practitioner who is licensed or certified in homeopathy and has a good reputation.
Keep an open mind! Homeopathy operates on principles that may be different from conventional medicine. Approach it with an open mind and be willing to explore new concepts and ideas.
If you're new to homeopathy, consider starting with simple remedies for minor ailments or common complaints, such as headaches, allergies, or minor injuries. Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies are available at many pharmacies and health food stores as well as online.
When determining the most accurate remedy online, I typically start with a search such as “homeopathy for headache.” Most websites will provide a list of different descriptions (in this case different types of headaches and other related symptoms) - the description that most closely matches is usually a great place to start! (The same process goes for when referencing a book for guidance.) Here is an awesome resource for How to Tell If Your Remedy Is Working.
Another suggestion is to keep track of your symptoms and how you respond to homeopathic treatments. Certainly involve your primary healthcare provider in your decision to explore homeopathy, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking prescription medications. They can provide guidance and ensure that homeopathy complements your overall healthcare plan.
So, how does homeopathy relate to speech and language or lactation?
Generally speaking, I subscribe to a holistic approach with myself and my family but also with my clients. I recognize that while they may appear to be so, symptoms or problems do not always occur in isolation. For some children, chronic ear infections lead to speech problems. Homeopathy can help to uproot these infections. And as I plan to share in the future, there are many remedies that can be helpful for common breastfeeding issues. All in all, homeopathy has been super effective and life changing for me and I love to share it so others can be empowered by it as well!
At Latch on to Language, I specialize in working with moms, moms-to-be, and babies for lactation concerns. I also specialize in working with children from toddler-age to teenage and most frequently service those with deficits in articulation/phonology and language. I offer in-home services to clients in Cecil County, MD, and nearby towns/cities in MD, PA, and DE. Additional travel fees apply to locations beyond this area. Virtual sessions are also effective and can be provided to address many lactation, speech, and language concerns.
If you're struggling or you’d simply like more information, please reach out to see if Latch on to Language may be a good fit! I look forward to working with you! 🌟
The content on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice without delay regardless of anything read on this website.
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