Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does homeopathy work?A: The exact mechanism is not known. Homeopathic treatment is intended to stimulate the body's natural ability to heal and strengthen an individual's vitality. It is based on the principle of like treating like; so that any substance that can make you ill can also treat you when given in the appropriate way. Remedies are made in pharmacies using a process of dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking), resulting in safe, infinitesimal doses.
Q: How do I take the remedies?
A: Remedies are usually provided as pleasant-tasting tablets that are placed under the tongue where they readily dissolve. Occasionally, liquid remedies are prescribed - these are normally taken using a dropper bottle each day.
Q: Is it safe for older people, children and new born babies?
A: Yes, completely safe. It should not be used as a substitute for emergency treatment.
Q: Should I continue seeing my GP and taking my medicine?
A: Yes, you should continue your relationship with your GP and continue taking your medication. Reducing or stopping any medication should be considered only after full consultation with the health professional who prescribed it. Homeopathic remedies can be taken alongside standard medicines.
Q: Isn't homeopathy simply a placebo that you need to believe in?
A: Homeopathy works whether you believe in it or not and is effective in animals and young children who are unaware that they are even taking a remedy!
Q: Will my health insurance cover the cost of homeopathic treatment?
A: Many health insurance companies cover the cost of homeopathic treatment - some may require a referral from your GP. Please check with your health insurer.
Q: Can I treat myself?
A: Yes, for many complaints you can treat yourself. I offer simple, easy to use remedy kits for first aid, children, babies, pregnancy, labour/birth, travel and coughs and colds. I also have more comprehensive kits available, supplied from a homeopathic pharmacy.
Q: How long will treatment take?
A: That will very much depend of the type of disease/ailment that you have. Children often respond very quickly to treatment, while more complex health problems will take longer. I normally see patients once every 3 to 6 weeks, often over the period of six months or occasionally a year, with many patients coming back once or twice a year after that for a boost to their health.
Q: Is there anything you can't treat?
A: Homeopathy can treat a huge range of physical, mental and emotional problems, and people with any disease or ailment can benefit from homeopathy. In the most serious degenerative conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease the aim is to minimise symptoms and side effects as much as possible and ensure the person remains as healthy as possible. However, it is illegal for anyone except medical doctors to treat cancer and sexually transmitted infections. I can, though, treat people who have these diseases to improve their health and well being. Also, only vets can treat animals professionally - however, there are many very good homeopathic vets who can offer advice.
