Homeopathy Treats the Patient, Not Just the Disease

There are an estimated 3,000 homeopathic remedies available to consumers today, from allium (onion extract) to calendula (marigold). All homeopathic remedies sold in the U.S. are regulated by the FDA to ensure safety and quality control. Even though some are derived from toxic materials, like arsenic, so little of the actual substance remains that they are not dangerous, nor do they have any adverse side effects.

Remedies are sold over the counter in the forms of sugar pills, tablets, creams or liquid tinctures. They're labeled with a number and letter that indicates how much of the ingredient has been diluted. Lower numbers indicate a less diluted remedy, but paradoxically, the more diluted a remedy is, the stronger its effect. Thus higher numbers, such as 200c, are much more diluted, yet more potent.

Trying Homeopathy

Those wishing to try homeopathy have two options: self-treatment with remedies sold at health food stores and pharmacies, or seeking out a certified practitioner. These domestic homeopaths have completed training programs, ranging from 700-900 hours of instruction over the course of three to four years, during which they are mentored by more experienced homeopaths.

Though it is unlikely that commercially sold combination remedies will cause any adverse effects, homeopathic remedies can be powerful and caution is advised when self-treating. Ideally, Hahnemann's original method -- a detailed patient interview with a homeopath, and carefully selected single remedy -- provides the most significant benefit.

An initial consultation with a homeopath runs between one and three hours and costs between $100-$250.

Designed to give the homeopath a more complete picture of their patient, the lengthy consultation is essential in selecting the best remedy. Additional visits may be required to fine-tune the remedy or the dosage. "It's a science, but it is not an exact science," Myers says. "It's a science and an art."

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