Homeopathy

Homeopathy was founded by German physician Samuel Hahnemann in the eighteenth century. It is based on the “law of similars,” that is, the concept that “like cures like.” It differs from herbal medicine in its basic healing premise.

Homeopathy is a system that employs the whole body by using very small “doses” of plants, animals, or minerals to stimulate the immune system. It is similar to an immunization, which uses small amounts of the virus to get your body producing the proper antibodies against it.

Since “like cures like,” it follows that a substance which would produce a symptom, for example an onion which makes your eyes water and nose run, would be employed as a remedy for colds.

It is almost as if the substance reminds the body’s immune system how to fight the illness. Homeopathic remedies are usually taken sublingually, or under the tongue, where they are quickly absorbed.

Difference from herbal

Homeopathy also differs from herbal medicine in its basic healing premise.

Herbal medicine is action and then counteraction. Homeopathic remedies are not always composed of plant-based ingredients. They most often come in small white pellets, tiny tablets that dissolve quickly under the tongue. Many stores sell a complete home starter kit for your medicine cabinet and books to help you identify your symptoms and their various remedies, or you can purchase each remedy separately.

The first homeopathic remedy I ever used was oscillococcinum for a cold. While I was working in Aspen and Glenwood Springs (Colorado), I started getting all the classic symptoms of a cold. Before I went to bed, I couldn’t even breathe because my nose was so stuffed up. I took a couple of tiny oscillococcinum tablets and went to bed. I breathed easily. I couldn’t believe how well they worked.

Hanna Kroeger

The last time I went to see her, Hanna Kroeger, with Hanna’s Herb Shop and the Church of Miracles near Boulder, recommended I take some homeopathic remedies with some herbal capsules and tinctures. She said I had Epstein Barr virus. I was feeling very tired and run down. I really had to fight to get moving in the morning. I couldn’t believe how much better I felt in less than a week. (For more information on Hanna Kroeger, see the chapter on alternative therapies.)

Hanna’s remedies also had a slightly beneficial effect on my skin. I have not personally found a homeopathic remedy that really worked on my skin. That doesn’t mean they don’t work, but rather I have not yet had that fortunate experience. Some that are recommended for skin ailments are apis, nux vomica, and sulphur.

You also need to read and follow instructions when taking homeopathics. You need to let the pellets dissolve in your mouth. Avoid mint even in your toothpaste and mouthwash as it counteracts the homeopathic remedies’ effects. Many essential oils and caffeine can all interrupt the process, too.

Homeopathy is used for many imbalances including, but not limited to: