What is Homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a complementary therapy, which has been in use for several hundred years. It assists the natural tendency of the body to heal itself. It is a very individualised treatment – two people with the same illness would be unlikely to be given the same remedy, and a prescription will only be arrived at after a lengthy discussion about the patient’s past and current health and lifestyle. Homeopathy works by stimulating the natural tendency of the body to heal itself, it is non suppressive, and works with the body, never against it. Homeopaths recognise that all symptoms of ill health are expressions of disharmony within the whole person, and that it is the patient who needs treatment, not the disease. Remedies are chosen for the needs of each individual patient, and are not prescribed routinely.
The range of conditions which can be helped by homeopathy is almost limitless, and the treatment is very gentle, without side effects or dependencies. Remedies can be used alone, or alongside and supporting conventional medicine. They would usually be given in pill or liquid form, but the method of dosing can be adjusted to suit the individual
Some examples of common ailments and conditions treated by homeopaths on a regular basis include asthma, eczema, insomnia, nervous problems, menstrual problems, menopause, pregnancy and birth support, coughs, colds, injuries and first aid situations, colic, teething, bed-wetting in children, nightmares, depression, digestive problems, headaches etc.

How to take the remedies
Your remedies should be taken in a clean mouth – aim not to eat or drink anything other than water for 15 minutes either before or after taking the remedy. I suggest that you also avoid substances like coffee/ toothpaste/olbas oil/aromatherapy oils which can also interfere with the absorption of your remedy, for around half an hour both before and after your remedy.
Ideally allow the remedy to dissolve in the mouth under the tongue, or chew it slowly. An alternative method for taking your remedy, is to put one pillule in a glass of water and sip it gradually over the course of a couple of hours, stirring it with a clean spoon before you take a sip. Certain conditions respond well to this method, and I will advise you accordingly.

Dosage Guidelines for self prescribing:
One tablet every 5-15 minutes for a serious complaint (bad injury/high fever).
One tablet every 1-2 hours for a serious complaint (painful cough).
One tablet every 4-8 hours for a less serious complaint (slow developing flu).
If the remedy relieves the symptom and then it gets worse again, that is the time to repeat.
If the symptoms are better do not continue the remedy.
If, after 4-6 does there is no improvement, stop the remedy. You can try another, but only one remedy at a time.

Homeopathy in Pregnancy and Childbirth
A pregnant woman is undergoing many changes, and the healing power within her is especially active during pregnancy. This, then, is an ideal time to treat the mother and the unborn child. By stimulating the vitality of a pregnant woman, homeopathic treatment will automatically benefit her baby.
Homeopathy is a natural system of medicine without the side effects often accompanying conventional medical treatment. Remedies cannot cause side effects to either the mother or baby, as only a very minute amount of the active ingredient is used in a specially prepared form. Remedies encourage the natural forces of the body to restore health and harmony.
Complaints that can be treated during pregnancy include; Morning sickness, constipation, urinary problems, pelvic pain, diarrhoea, anaemia, high blood pressure, haemorrhoids, varicose veins, malposition of foetus, backache, cramps, oedema, emotional distress etc.
Homeopathy offers the birthing woman a gentle, yet powerful, support to overcome challenges during pregnancy, birth and beyond.. There are remedies that deal with problems during labour such as retained placenta, ineffectual contractions, prolonged labour, episiotomy, fear of childbirth etc.
The best way to prevent these problems is to have continued treatment throughout your pregnancy. There are also wonderful remedies to speed your recovery after your labour and birth.
Remedies can also help with breast-feeding problems, post-natal depression, and any problems your baby may have. Babies respond very quickly to homeopathic treatment, so it can provide a safe and healthy start to life, especially as there are no side effects. There are simple remedies to help relieve teething or colic pains, as well as those for more serious problems.

NOTE:
There are many ways to maintain good health and vitality, homeopathy being only one of them. It is recommended that throughout any homeopathic treatment you should maintain your relationship with your G.P. and consult him/her in the event of any symptoms which give you concern.
No information on this web site is intended to replace the advice given to you in person from your G.P. or qualified homeopath.
E&OE.