About homeopathy
Homeopathy is a therapeutic system developed in Germany more than 200 years ago. Homeopathy is based on principle of “like cures like”. It means that substance that causes a symptom in a healthy person, given in big dilution can cure the same symptom in a sick person. The medicine will stimulate a self-healing process.
Homeopathy is often confused with herbal medicine, but unlike herbs homeopathy uses big dilutions of herbs, minerals, or animal products and some people say they are too diluted to work.
But even in high dilutions they still have nanoparticles of the original substance in them.
For many years homeopathic medications have been used to treat a variety of acute and chronic illnesses, like colds, coughs, ear infections, skin disorders, colic, diarrhea, seasonal allergies, and also sleep and behavioral problems.
In my pediatric practice I see a lot of advantages of using homeopathy. It reduces the use of antibiotics. The results are often compatible with the use of conventional treatments. I also see fewer recurrences. Homeopathic medications can be used in combination with conventional medications. They can be helpful in treating a variety of childhood minor symptoms, like growing pains or nose bleeding.
Homeopathic medications are very safe. They are regulated as drugs by the FDA in the same manner like other OTC medications. They should also be labeled HPUS. That means that the product was made in accordance with guidelines of the Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States.
There are a lot of homeopathic medications available over the counter that indicate symptoms that it should be used for, like COLDCALM for colds or CHESTAL for cough.
There are also single medications that can be used for different acute or minor symptoms, like Arnica for aches and pains, Belladonna helps to reduce fevers, Apis helps hives and swelling.
In the case of chronic conditions like asthma, chronic coughs, skin problems, chronic pains, digestive problems, emotional problems it is best to consult a physician experienced in using homeopathy, because a choice of medications is based on a person’s unique symptom presentation.
Homeopathic medicines are easy to take. They come in the form of small sugar pellets or easily dissolvable tablets. They should be dissolved under the tongue or in water for younger children. They have a great taste and kids love to take them.
Homeopathy can be easily combined with conventional treatments in everyday pediatric practice as a safe alternative.