Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Homeopathy and Pregnancy

Check out my latest article on the Natural Mothering website. This time I focus on using homeopathic remedies to assist in pregnancy.

http://www.naturalmothering.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=88:homeopathy-and-pregnancy&catid=27:pregnancy-and-labour&Itemid=100024

Saturday, August 8, 2009

What's The Difference- Homeopaths vs Naturopaths!

Let's Try to Clear Up the Confusion!

So, you're interested in natural health. Maybe you even thought about seeing a practitioner. But, where to start? .And, besides what really is the difference between homeopathy and naturopathy?

Let's start this discussion by talking about what is and isn't homeopathy. Homeopathy is a complete medical system that has been around in a formal way for over 200 years. Homeopathy involves the prescription of one homeopathic medicine ( called remedies) based on the Law of Similars. This means we are looking to prescribe one remedy made from natural substances that through prior testing and clinical experience has a track record of curing the same pattern of symptoms in the sick that it can create in healthy subjects. This means a homeopath will prescribe one remedy at a time. Combination remedies, while containing homeopathic remedies, are not technically homeopathy because these remedies are not chosen based on their similarity to your pattern of symptoms.

Huh? I can hear the confusion over the web. Here is a simple way to think about it. If you have ever cut an onion, you may be familiar with the burning, watery discharge from your eyes. The Homeopathic remedy made from the red onion (called Allium Cepa) is often used for colds and allergies with symptoms of burning, watery nasal discharge with a more bland eye discharge.

So, a homeopath will prescribe one remedy that is the closest match to your pattern of symptoms.

Naturopaths:
Naturopaths receive a very intensive education in medical sciences. They also learn a wide variety of treatments varying from Traditional Chinese Medicine, botanical medicine, nutrition and homeopathy. I like to think of Naturopaths as 'green' general practitioners in that they practice a wide-range of modalities. However, they only get 250-300 hours of homeopathic instruction in Naturopathic College. That being said, there are some Naturopaths who go on to specialize in homeopathy by pursuing further post-graduate education.

Homeopaths:
Remember- homeopathy is a complete medical system in itself. A good homeopath should have attended a 3-4 year programme (ideally one that is certified by an independent educational body) and should be taking further post-graduate education of some sort. On average, homeopathic students receive 5000-7000 hours in homeopathy and the medical sciences. Homeopaths are equivalent to specialists in the conventional medical system. And just as in the case of any medical specialty, it takes many years of study and clinical practice to be able to master homeopathy.

Homeopathy involves the use of medicines that stimulate your body to heal itself. In my practice, I have found that combining homeopathy with dietary changes where necessary has been really effective. I don't tend to prescribe a lot of supplements except for situations such as a nutritional deficiency such as low iron, calcium intake etc.

Advantages of Homeopathic Treatment:
  1. Effective Management of Many Chronic Health Issues: This can include minor aches and pains to more serious conditions. Some examples can include, headaches, digestive issues (gas, constipation, diarrhea), PMS, menopausal symptoms, painful periods; anxiety, grief and much more
  2. Reduces the Susceptibility to Illness: Do you find that you keep catching every bug going around? Maybe you are sniffling all the time. Homeopathic treatment can reduce the frequency and severity of colds, flus and other acute ailments.
  3. Effective Homeopathic Flu Prevention: Homeopaths have been using homeopathic prophylaxis for over 150 years. Many homeopaths offer this remedy for free.
  4. It Works: There is over 200 years of clinical experience that demonstrates that it works. There have also been quite a few clinical studies and trials which show that homeopathy is either more effective than placebo and/or an appropriate pharmaceutical medicine in many conditions such as childhood diarrhea, acute otitis media, fibromyalgia, ADHD, etc.
  5. Safe, gentle and Effective: Homeopathic remedies are safe for infants, children, pregnant women and the elderly because they are made by a specific protocol of dilution and succussion. They also do not produce side effects and will not interact with any pharmaceutical medications.
  6. Inexpensive: Homeopathic remedies are not expensive. Although the initial visit to a homeopath may be expensive, it is a worthwhile investment in your health. Furthermore, remedies are usually included in the fee and in most cases, you will not have to spend a lot of money on expensive supplements.
So, hopefully you found this helpful. If you would like more information or to book a complimentary mini-consult, please contact me at 647-688-8290 or redpearlhomeopathy@gmail.com.