Using Homeopathic Medicine
First, do no harm...
The first concern of anyone using any new medicine is "Is
it safe?". The short answer is yes, homeopathic medicine
is completely safe. However, you should not stop taking
any existing medication without first consulting your doctor.
Dosage and Potency
Not all homeopaths agree on dosage and potency, and the potency
to be taken depends on both the sensitivity of the patient,
and the exact remedy being taken. But as a general rule, chronic
illnesses (i.e. those that you've had for a long time) should
be treated with high numbers i.e. 30C - 200C and Acute (i.e.
those that are relatively new) with low numbers i.e 6C.
However, there are exceptions, particularly where an accident
started off the symptoms and you might give the body a kick
start with a high potency dose such as Arnica 200C first and
then follow with a lower potency remedy. Low numbers are used
more frequently than high numbers.
Another general rule is that high potency homeopathic medicine
should only be taken when you know it is the right remedy, so
start off with a low potency remedy, and then increase the potency
if improvement is felt, though incomplete.
Taking Homeopathic Medicine
Homeopathic medicine should be taken on a clean pallet. While
on a course of homeopathic treatment, you should avoid strong
flavours such as mint (including toothpaste), coffee or camphor.
They are normally taken as pills which are placed under the
tongue. Take two tablets every two hours for the first six doses,
and then four times daily for up to five days. For some complaints
remedies are taken as an ointment, for example, arnica cream
applied directly to bruising.
If you are taking the remedy in pill form, you should avoid
contact with the skin (including fingers). Just drop a few pills
into the lid and pour them directly into the mouth.
Once relief from the symptoms if felt, stop taking the homeopathic
medicine. Only take it again if exactly the same symptoms come
back.
A professional Homeopath
will also assess your diet and lifestyle.
If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
