Anxiety, stress and other related issues are common in our modern, fast-paced society. Conventional medical treatment includes therapy and prescription medication. However, not everyone can tolerate the side effects of many prescriptions. Homeopathic remedies are gentle and have little to no side effects. They are smaller than standard pills and easier to take. They may provide a safe alternative treatment for anxiety and stress.
History
Homeopathy was developed by a German physician named Samuel Hahnnemann in the late 18th century. He was disillusioned with the invasive medical treatments of his day that included such methods as mercury and blood-letting. He left his medical practice to explore safer, more effective alternatives. His theory, known as the Law of Similars, is based on the idea that substances in their natural state that produce a certain set of symptoms can cure those same symptoms when administered in very minute doses.
Theories/Speculation
In theory, homeopathic remedies work by stimulating a natural healing response in the body. Homeopaths teach that the diluted remedy leaves behind a trace, an "imprint" or mere essence of the original substance. Homeopaths believe that it is the energy or vibration of the remedy, rather than the chemical content, that encourages natural healing by activating the vital force (also known as qi or chi in Eastern medicine). Homeopathic medicine has been shown to be effective for a number of conditions, including stress and anxiety. Reza Sharifi, Certified Classical Homeopath and board member of Phoenix Homeopathy Study Group, suggests that his practice validates the use of homeopathic remedies even for cases severe as post-traumatic stress disorder.
Types
There is no one single homeopathic remedy for stress or anxiety. Remedies are selected for each individual, based on the information collected during a homeopathic consultation. The process, called case taking, involves identifying more than just the physical and even emotional and behavioral patterns and symptoms. However, there are a number of standard remedies that are commonly used. These include aconite, for stress related to sudden shock or trauma, ignatia, for anxiety associated with loss or grief, gelsemium, for anxiety due to fear or anticipation, arsenicum for irritability, restlessness and insomnia, and Kali phosphoricum for stress due to overwork and exhaustion.
Benefits
Hahnemann followed Hippocrates' admonition of "first, do no harm". Because homeopathic remedies are so highly diluted, there are virtually no side effects. There is little chance of overdose, and if the incorrect remedy is used, it simply has no effect on the body. In fact, critics claim that it works only because of the placebo effect. Whether or not that is the case has yet to be determined. As for safe, alternative treatments for stress and anxiety, homeopathic medicine provides one viable option.
Considerations
If suffering from stress or anxiety, consult a healthcare professional. Homeopathic physicians are trained and certified and evaluate individuals on a case by case basis to determine the appropriate remedy. Always consult your physician before trying alternative treatments. Remember, complementary therapy should be used in conjunction with, and not in place of, conventional medical treatment.
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