Homeopathy is a medical science that originated in Germany over two hundred years ago. It was founded by Dr. Samuel Christian Friedrich Hahnemann. Homeopathy is effective in treating patients with acute, chronic, and epidemic illnesses. There have been systematic research and database on clinical application of homeopathic remedies.
One of the complimentary/alternative medicines used worldwide
2019 World Health Organization’s document states that Homeopathy is one of top five traditional and complimentary medicines used in 100 countries globally.
What can it treat and how does it work?
Homeopathy is a natural treatment based on a concept that our bodies have the ability to heal themselves. Self-healing occurs when the sick receives appropriate stimulation, which is individualized for each person. Homeopathy treats patients (more accurately, it stimulates patients to heal themselves) by holistically balancing the body. As a result, the patient's illness, whatever it may be, will improve on its own.
What is used for treatment, and are there side effects?
Homeopathy is a safe medical science that can be used for all genders and ages, including children, the elderly, and even animals, under the guidance of an expert (Homeopath). There are no side effects because it is extracted from natural substances through a process of extreme dilution. The preparation of homeopathic remedies primarily uses only water and alcohol, with no other chemicals.
What are the treatment steps, and how is continuous treatment carried out?
The philosophy of Homeopathy is to restore the sick to health. Because homeopathy focuses on treating the patient, it's important that the Homeopath deeply understands each patient including his/her illness. For example, 10 patients with migraines may receive 10 different homeopathic remedies since each patient is different, and the details of each patient's illness are different.
In the treatment process, the Homeopath will take a detailed history and perform a physical examination of the patient. The case taking covers important aspects such as:
- Chronological history of illness from the beginning up to the present, which and how systems have been affected. This will assist in understanding progression of the imbalance that has occurred.
- Possible related factors or causes, factors that improve or worsen symptoms.
- Disposition, sensitivities, and reactions in various situations,
- General characteristics, such as tolerance to heat and coldness, thirst, appetite, urination, defecation, sweating, sleep, menstruation.
- Surgical history and accidents.
- Family medical history.
After obtaining all the information, the Homeopath will analyze to select and to prepare appropriate homeopathic remedies for that particular patient.
The Homeopath will schedule follow-up appointments periodically to monitor changes. The follow-up interval depends on nature and clinical severity of each patient.
Article by Dr. Jongkol Lerttiendumrong