Homeopathic Supplements

Homeopathic supplements are non-toxic extracts from various natural substances such as herbs, minerals or animal products. There are more than 2,000 supplements available, prepared according to the principle of homeopathy and used by homeopaths worldwide.

The Concept

The concept of homeopathy was formulated by Hippocrates, an ancient Greek physician. However, as an organized system of medicine it was developed 200 years ago by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, M.D. Homeopathy follows the "like cures like" principle, which means that a homeopathic supplement capable of producing certain effects when taken by healthy people is also able to treat symptoms that displays similar effects. Some conventional treatments, such as vaccines, also use the concept because vaccines introduce small doses of a disease-causing agent to treat or prevent various disorders.

Benefits

Homeopathic supplements can be valuable for prevention and treatment of various conditions. They can prevent conditions such as allergies, muscle overstrain or acute stress. Homeopathy can be used for treatment as well because homeopathic medicine is a complete form of medicine, like acupuncture or chiropractic medicine. Digestive problems, musculoskeletal complaints or psychological disorders can be addressed by homeopathy.

Research

According to Dr. Kenneth Peller, M.D. and director of the National Institutes of Health-funded Complementary and Alternative Medicine Program, clinical research found homeopathic supplements beneficial for the following conditions: vascular diseases, respiratory infections, hay fever and digestive complaints following surgery, rheumatological problems, injuries and trauma, and psychological problems. A study conducted at Bristol Homeopathic Hospital, UK, by David S. Spence, M.B., B.S. and associates and published in November 2005 issue of the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that more than 70 percent of patients with chronic diseases reported positive health changes during the homeopathic treatment. The study was carried out over six years and involved more than 6,500 patients.

Safety

On January 5, 2009, the European Council of Classical Homeopathy published a comprehensive report that found homeopathic treatment is safe. The study evaluated the safety of homeopathic supplements, of homeopathic treatment by homeopaths and of self-treatment with homeopathic supplements by people with no knowledge of homeopathy. Researchers concluded that homeopathic supplements and homeopathic treatment by qualified homeopaths are safe. The researchers addressed a note of warning about people who try to treat themselves with homeopathic supplements for anything other than simple, self-limiting conditions without consulting a qualified professional.

Considerations

Although homeopathic supplements are available over the counter, for best results it's highly recommended to consult a qualified homeopath. A practitioner can also advise about possible interactions of homeopathic supplements with drugs or herbs.

Criticisms of Homeopathy

Despite some evidence to the contrary, not everyone is convinced about the benefits of homeopathy. Some say results using homeopathic treatments are not easily measurable; that the practice is not logically consistent; and that over-dilution combats any effectiveness, among other complaints.