Homeopathy is an alternative medical system based on two main ideas: “like cures like” and “less is more”. Here is a look at the most common myths surrounding homeopathy.

 

Myth: It’s just another name for herbal medicine.

Homeopathic remedies come from natural sources, including plants and minerals, so people often lump them in with herbs, essential oils, Traditional Chinese Medicine or supplements. But homeopathy is its own system of medicine. While an herbal tincture relies on measurable amounts of a plant or plants, a homeopathy remedy follows homeopathic principles and is prepared through a specific process of dilution and vigorous shaking (known as succussion).

 

Myth: It’s a trendy new fad.

Homeopathy is older than the stethoscope. German physician Samuel Hahnemann (1755–1843) developed its principles more than two centuries ago, and by 1900, roughly one in five American doctors was a homeopath. Political and social shifts pushed it out of the mainstream in the U.S. for much of the 20th century, but it never went away. Millions of people around the world still turn to it today.

 

Myth: The pellets are nothing but sugar.

Although most homeopathic remedies come in the form of a tiny sugar pellet that dissolves under the tongue, this is simply the carrier. During manufacturing, the pellet is infused with the prepared homeopathic remedy.

 

Myth: Nobody regulates these products.

Under U.S. federal law, homeopathic remedies are classified as drugs, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration oversees their manufacture, marketing and sale. Homeopathic pharmacies follow the standards in the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States, which has guided manufacturing for more than a century. Remedies carry labels with directions, indications and any necessary warnings; some are available by prescription only.

 

Myth: Everyone with the same illness takes the same remedy.

Homeopathy adheres to the principle of “totality of symptoms”, which means that two people with the same diagnosis may need entirely different remedies. For example, two people with an upset stomach may have completely different symptoms—the one that feels chilly and isn’t thirsty will likely require a different remedy than the person that feels hot and craves cold water.

Each symptom—whether it is related to mood, energy levels, body temperature or cravings—points to the best homeopathic match. The source of a remedy can hold a clue: If cutting an onion makes a person’s eyes water and nose run, Allium cepa, a remedy made from onion, will be a go-to for colds and hay fever. Homeopaths call this phenomenon “like cures like”.

 

Myth: More is better.

The opposite is true. Our culture tends to equate bigger doses with better results. In homeopathy, the “minimum dose” principle dictates taking only enough of a remedy to spark a healing response. When the person starts to feel better, they stop taking the remedy. If symptoms return, then the dose can be repeated, although it is best to check with a homeopathic practitioner. Sometimes one dose is all it takes.

 

Myth: Choosing homeopathy means giving up the doctor.

Not at all. Homeopathic remedies can be taken alongside conventional medications, and some practitioners recommend them to complement medical or dental care. Plenty of licensed professionals use homeopathy in their work, including medical doctors, naturopathic physicians, nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, dentists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, physician assistants and veterinarians. People should always consult their medical practitioner before using homeopathy for a chronic condition, and if someone is pregnant or nursing, it is best to always check with their healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter product, including homeopathic remedies.

 

Myth: Homeopaths don’t have any training.

Training matters a great deal in homeopathy. Independent schools offer professional coursework online, in classrooms and through internships with experienced practitioners. The Accreditation Commission for Homeopathic Education in North America reviews the content and structure of many of these programs.

Practitioners can also earn certification through several organizations, including the Council for Homeopathic Certification, the North American Homeopathy Examiners or the Homeopathic Association of Naturopathic Physicians. In the United States, each state sets its own rules, so it is important to ask a practitioner about their training and credentials before booking a consultation.

 

Myth: Homeopathy is expensive.

A multi-dose bottle of a remedy usually costs about $8 to $10 at natural food stores, pharmacies, grocery stores or online vendors. Remedies keep for a long time, and one remedy can often help with several kinds of complaints.

 

Myth: Homeopathy is only good for the sniffles.

Colds, flu, sore throats, earaches, bumps and bruises are where most families begin, and that’s where a homeopathy home kit really shines. But homeopathy goes well beyond first aid. Professional homeopathic practitioners also work with clients facing chronic, longstanding health concerns, using an in-depth intake that looks at mental, emotional and physical symptoms. For those situations, working with a trained practitioner rather than self-prescribing is recommended.

 

Myth: There is no research behind homeopathy.

Thousands of studies on homeopathy have been published in medical journals, including clinical trials and laboratory research into the biological activity of highly diluted substances. To view the current research, visit HomeopathyCenter.org/research. Scientists are still exploring how remedies work, and the conversation remains lively.

 

Myth: Homeopathy is only for people.

Dogs, cats and other animals often respond well to homeopathic remedies. Animal caretakers can learn to choose remedies for simple ailments, but when a chronic or serious condition is involved, consulting a veterinarian or homeopath experienced in animal care is recommended. Some gardeners even use homeopathy for their plants.

 

Getting Started

• Start small. Try a remedy for a minor, short-term concern.
  
  
• Build a kit. A few well-chosen remedies like Arnica for bumps and bruises and Apis mellifica for bug bites can go a long way.
  
  
• Read the labels. Follow the directions and note any warnings.
  
  
• Consult a homeopathic expert. For a chronic condition or during pregnancy or nursing, a trained and certified homeopath will provide the best and safest options.
  
  
• Keep learning. The National Center for Homeopathy offers free getting-started resources, reading lists and more at HomeopathyCenter.org/homeopathy-learning-center.org.

 

This article is based on information in HomeopathyCenter.org. Christina Donka is executive director of the National Center for Homeopathy, providing education, resources and advocacy since 1974.

 

 Underwritten by Grato Health, in operation since 1987, dedicated to advancing health and wellness through natural, holistic solutions that support the body's ability to heal.

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