Homeopathic medicine draws on exactly the same principles as vaccines and allergy treatments, though it is usually considered “alternative.” All three are based on the principle that “like cures like,” where exposure to a small amount of a substance, disease or allergen provokes a reaction in the patient that then serves to protect against it. This concept is at the core of homeopathy, a medical tradition growing increasingly popular. One big supporter of homeopathy is Mark Stengler, NMD, author of The Natural Physician’s Healing Therapies. We asked him to tell me about some of his favorites.
THE BASIC PRINCIPLE: LIKE CURES LIKE
In homeopathy, pain or symptoms of an illness are understood to be how the body tries to heal itself. This approach to medicine seeks in the short term to stimulate—not discourage—natural healing mechanisms, such as fever and inflammation. Using the “law of similars,” the tiny remedy pellets incite many of the symptoms that characterize the illness the body is battling in order to stimulate the healing process. This is very different from conventional medicine, which instead acts to suppress symptoms.
Homeopathic remedies are made from plants, minerals and animal products. The usual homeopathic dosage is two pellets of a 12C or 30C potency (“C” potency is a 1/100 dilution) two to four times a day—but it’s important to carefully follow package directions or the dosing instructions of a trained homeopath. Remedies are dissolved under the tongue. Avoid touching the pills with your hands, since contact with dirt or oil on the skin may inactivate the material—instead try pouring them into the plastic lid of the container and from there, into your mouth. Once symptoms begin to respond, stop taking the remedy and see if an improvement settles in. If some symptoms remain, you may then clear them altogether by taking the remedy a little longer—for acute attacks look for improvement within minutes to an hour…for chronic disease it may take one to two weeks to notice improvement. Here are some to try…
DR. STENGLER’S FAVORITE REMEDIES
Apis for Skin Reactions
Derived from the venom of the honeybee, Dr. Stengler prescribes Apis for stinging, burning, swelling and itching. It may be useful for bee stings, arthritis, urinary tract infections, herpes, sore throat, hives and other allergic reactions. This is an example of how a remedy can sometimes work for disparate ailments, since similar biochemical processes are at root. Note: Apis does not replace conventional medical treatment for severe allergic reactions.
Arnica for Bruises and Muscle Aches
Dr. Stengler said if he had to choose just one homeopathic medicine to use, it would be Arnica. This anti-inflammatory preparation made from the mountain daisy is excellent at soothing bruises, aches, pains, swelling and other physical trauma. It also may provide relief for muscle soreness, such as from exercise. Research shows that Arnica helps recovery from plastic surgery. Arnica is also available as a topical cream or gel.
Cantharis for Burns
This preparation from the blister beetle is used for burns and urinary tract infections. The beetle contains the chemical cantharidin, which when concentrated causes blisters and skin inflammation. Based on the homeopathic principle of “like cures like,” this makes cantharis the ideal remedy for burns.
Gelsemium for the Flu
A classic flu remedy that was used to reduce duration and soothe symptoms during the devastating 1918 flu epidemic, Gelsemium is particularly beneficial for flu sufferers who experience fatigue, lethargy and shakiness. Dr. Stengler also prescribes it more generally for fatigue and headaches.
Ignatia for Anxiety
Dr. Stengler frequently prescribes this medicine to relieve emotional distress and anxiety. In his opinion, many stressed-out type A’s would benefit from taking Ignatia amara… in addition to trying other stress management techniques such as prayer, exercise and deep breathing. Ignatia may be especially helpful taken daily during stressful periods such as a divorce or the loss of a loved one. It does not take away all of the emotional pain, but it reduces the intensity.
Nux vomica for Nausea and Heartburn
Derived from an East Indian plant we call Quaker’s buttons, Nux vomica is most commonly used for stomach cramps, nausea and heartburn. Many people also find it helpful for anxiety and irritability, and as a hangover remedy.
Rhus toxicodendron for Poison Ivy
Rhus toxicodendron, often shortened to Rhus tox., consists of the homeopathic dilution of poison ivy, which with direct contact causes a blistering rash. Again recalling the principle of “like cures like,” the salve form is one of the best skin remedies for poison ivy. You can also use it for arthritis, back strain and cold sores.
Sulphur for Skin Ailments
Dr. Stengler considers this one of the most profound and long-lasting of all homeopathic remedies. He prescribes it for skin ailments such as rashes, eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, sulphur can be taken for digestive disturbances, insomnia and headaches.
FINDING A HOMEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN
Remedies are economically priced, readily available at health food stores and drugstores and—because they have few side effects—lend themselves easily to self-care for uncomplicated problems such as muscle soreness or a stomachache. For overall guidance and to treat more complex health problems—and most especially if you are pregnant or suffer from a chronic medical problem such as diabetes or heart disease—it’s best to consult a medical practitioner trained in homeopathy. Homeopathic physicians carefully calibrate treatment to suit each individual, taking into account not only symptoms but also a person’s emotional state, lifestyle and other factors. To learn more about homeopathy and/or locate a practitioner in your area, visit the Web site of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians at www.naturopathic.org…or the National Center for Homeopathy at NationalCenterForHomeopathy.org.
