When it comes to the minor annoyances in life – headaches, runny noses, fatigue, etc. – many of us are hesitant to reach for the medicine cabinet at the first sign of discomfort. We may look to more natural remedies like heating pads, a cup of hot tea, or – for some – homeopathic medicines. Not to be confused with herbalism, homeopathy is a therapeutic method that uses highly-diluted natural substances to relieve symptoms.
What is homeopathy?
Homeopathy, derived from the Greek words for โsimilar sufferingโ, was developed in 1796 by German physician and chemist, Samuel Hahnemann. His philosophy was that โlike treats likeโ, and so he would treat patients by administering highly diluted amounts of substances such as arsenic, sepia, or chamomile, which in larger quantities would produce symptoms like the ones from which they were suffering. By using micro-doses, homeopathic medicines stimulate the bodyโs physiological reactions that restore health, with a very low risk of side effects.
How is homeopathic medicine made?
The base of homeopathic medicine is that water or alcohol will retain the โvital essenceโ of the substance it is infused with, and that it will actually become more potent as it is repeatedly succussed (shaken). Most homeopathic medicine is prepared in this way: Soluble substances are dissolved in alcohol to form a โmother tinctureโ. One part of this tincture is added to 99 parts of alcohol and succussed (shaken). This yields a 1C potency; read the label on homeopathic medicine to see the potency of a given substance. This process of serial dilution and succussion is repeated many times. The dilution may be taken in water, on sugar pellets, or in tablet form. Note that some remedies, prepared from insoluble substances, may be prepared lactose, or milk sugar.
When should I take homeopathic medicine?
In general, homeopathic medicine may work best when used for subjective symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or fatigue. Homeopathic medicines should be taken at the onset of symptoms. In situations when acute medical attention is needed, or a serious disease, condition, or infection is suspected, homeopathic medicine should not be used.
3 Homeopathic Remedies for Cold and Flu Season:
Oscillococcinumยฎ
May be used to lessen the severity of flu-like symptoms such as body aches, headache, fever, chills and fatigue.* This medicine works best when taken at the first signs of flu and is recommended for everyone ages 2 and up.
Coldcalmยฎ ย
Can be used to temporarily relieve cold symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion.* This medicine can be used during all three phases of a cold including onset, established, and resolution phases. Available asย quick-dissolving pellets for kids or liquid doses for babies 6 months and up.
Chestalยฎ
May be used to reduce the symptoms of the common cold such as nasal and chest congestion, fitful cough, sneezing, minor sore throat, and runny or stuffy nose.*ย This medicine offers daytime and nighttime relief for adults and children ages 3 and up.
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*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated. ย This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Not all products may be suitable for vegetarians.
