Homeopathic Theraphy Essay Example

toxic chemicals containing mercury, lead, arsenic, and potent herbs during his time, Dr. Hahnemann founded homeopathy between 1790 and 1810 ("A condensed History of Homeopathy"). The negative effects of these treatments were evident when George Washington died from a throat infection after having nine pints of blood removed within 24 hours ("The Ancient Art of Bloodletting"). Thus, researching and familiarizing oneself with homeopathic therapy can provide support not only to individuals but also their loved ones who may require it. In his exploration into alternative methods, Hahnemann studied the writings of renowned physician William Cullen ("A condensed History of Homeopathy"). Notable contributors to homeopathy include Christopher Ellithorp, a scholar and historian in this field; Luc de Schepper, author of "Hahnemann Revisited"; George A.H. Muhlenbein known as "The Apostle of Homeopathy" in Northern Germany.Matthius Marenzeller advocated for homeopathy principles in Austria and conducted initial experiments at Vienna's Garrison Hospital. Joseph Mueller was a pioneering homeopath in Hungary. Moritz Muller proved Dulcamara and co-founded the first homeopathic Journal. Clemens M.F. von Boenninghausen created the first homeopathic repertory and authored "The Therapeutic Pocket Book." Hans Burch Gram was the first homeopath in the United States. Johann Stapf, one of Hahnemann's Prover's Union members, was the first convert to homeopathy. Caspar Jenischen developed high potencies.

Christian Gottlob Hornburg (1793-1834) was an early disciple of Hahnemann and cured pleurisy and pneumonia with Aconite for the first time. Ernst Ferdinand Rueckert (1793-1843) worked with Hahnemann as a prover of Dulcamara, Aconite, and others, and is considered one of the founders of veterinary homeopathy along with Lux. Henry Detwiller (1794-1887), a pioneer homeopath, founded The Allentown Academy and gave Pennsylvania's first prescription for

a homeopathic medicine.

Today, various medical professionals such as MDs, chiropractors, dental surgeons, veterinarians, and pediatricians use homeopathy to treat both acute and chronic conditions. Online resources provide information on locating a homeopathic physician and understanding various treatments. Homeopathic remedies can be obtained from health food stores or prescribed by physicians.Hahnemann's work "The Organon of the Rational Healing Art" presents the principles of homeopathy. Adhering to these principles is crucial in the practice of homeopathy. The first principle, known as similia similibus curantur or the law of similars, involves treating illnesses with medications that produce similar symptoms. For example, podophylum causes diarrhea but can also alleviate it. This principle is based on empirical evidence rather than speculation.

One unique aspect of homeopathy is that all types of treatment are considered valid within this system. Disharmony in the vital force is identified as the primary cause of actual illness, specifically related to dynamic ailments exclusively. Disruptions and abnormal functioning in tissues and organs arise from dynamic disturbances rather than being the underlying cause itself.

When selecting an appropriate remedy, a comprehensive range of symptoms including objective and subjective factors along with individual characteristics serves as the sole criterion. Personal opinions or conjecture alone cannot be relied upon in medicine. Historically, deductive reasoning has been followed instead of inductive reasoning.

By consistently tailoring treatment to each patient individually, our focus lies not only on addressing the disease but also on tending to their overall well-being. To achieve optimal practical results, medicines must be administered separatelyProgress cannot be achieved without employing a systematic application of the inductive method. The preferred remedy is always the one that closely resembles the characteristic symptoms of

the disease, with varying degrees of similarity rather than an exact match. Positive outcomes can be expected if there is a sufficiently high level of likeness. This specific treatment will be prescribed for its dynamic nature at an ideal dosage. For instance, salt (natrum muriaticum) is not considered a remedy in its natural state; it must undergo potentization to become effective. To determine if a medicine possesses disease-causing properties, it must first be tested on healthy individuals and then confirmed by successfully treating those who are sickened by it. Only remedies that have been proven and verified should be used.

The doctrine of signatures does not belong to homeopathy; instead, it follows a deductive approach. It is not advisable to base a practice that determines life or death on a mere hypothesis. The principle of similarity in homeopathy aims to prevent illness by administering a remedy before the onset of sickness, effectively curing the ailment. This preventive approach is known as homeopathic prophylaxis.

When undergoing homeopathic therapy, it starts with an extensive and personalized consultation with a trained professionalThis professional thoroughly evaluates the patient's illness, lifestyle, and other factors in order to develop an effective plan of action.After conducting an assessment and collaborating with the patient, personalized remedies will be determined. The patient will then receive instructions on how to administer these remedies and continue treatment at home. Subsequent follow-up visits will be scheduled where detailed reports on the effects of the remedies are required from the patient, similar to traditional medical facilities. Clear communication about how their bodies responded to the remedies is essential for discussing further treatment options.

According to the National Center for Complementary and

Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), homeopathic therapy aims to stimulate the body's defense mechanisms and processes for preventing or treating illnesses. Treatment involves administering small doses of remedies that would produce similar symptoms seen in healthy individuals when given in larger doses. Homeopathy takes into consideration various factors such as symptoms, lifestyle, emotions, mental states, and more, making it a personalized form of treatment.

Supporters of this method praise its effectiveness in treating both physical and spiritual well-being while highlighting the distinctions between complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and conventional medicine. With 200 years of existence and scientific backing, homeopathic therapy is expected to endure for many centuries to come. Not only does this therapy enhance patients' well-being but it also showcases doctors' commitment to individualized care.In comparison to regular doctor's visits, homeopathic therapy offers lengthier appointments, enabling more personalized attention. Therapists dedicate the necessary time to fully comprehend their patients, creating comprehensive profiles of their emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. However, this level of care requires more patience and time than conventional healthcare systems typically allow. As a result, many individuals seek safer and more reliable therapies for themselves and their families.

The increasing popularity of homeopathic therapy in the United States has sparked interest in understanding its effectiveness in treating prevalent diseases. According to an article on the NCCAM website: "NCCAM's existence reflects the growing interest in CAM among the public." In 1997 alone, approximately 42% of Americans spent $27 billion on CAM therapies (NCCAM 2003). Recognizing this consumer trend, Congress acknowledged the significance of alternative medicine by elevating the NIH Office of Alternative Medicine in 1998. They expanded its mandate and established the NCCAM with administrative

authority over its own research portfolio.

Reflecting ongoing interest in CAM, Congress further increased funding for the Center to $68.4 million in FY 2000. The President's FY 2001 budget requests $72.4 million for NCCAM.According to NCCAM in 2000, we are thankful for the support received.

Qualifications play a crucial role in ensuring patients receive adequate medical careWhen patients visit a practitioner's office, they expect to see displayed degrees or certifications. Over time, there has been a significant increase in homeopathy training programs available. In 1990, there were only three programs, but currently, there are over twenty options. These programs typically last for three or four years and include regular monthly meetings.

Several organizations such as CHC (Council for Homeopathic Certification), NASH (North American Society of Homeopaths), HANP (Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians), and CCHC (Certified Classical Homeopath) offer certifications that recognize practitioners' qualifications. This recognition gives patients a sense of reassurance when seeking homeopathic treatment.

Homeopathic medicine dates back to the 1800s; however, it gained little recognition until the early 1900s. Thanks to efforts made by the NCH (National Center for Homeopathy), its popularity has grown significantly. Currently, the FDA regulates both the manufacturing and sale of homeopathic medicine. Additionally, a large portion of these medicines can be purchased without a prescription.

Each state has its own regulations regarding homeopathy practice. Only individuals with degrees in MD (Medical Doctor), DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine), ND (Naturopathic Doctor), DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) are allowed to practice homeopathy. Some states permit Doctors of Chiropractic (DC) to provide homeopathic services while others do not.In some cases, individuals with acute illnesses who possess a homeopathic kit permitted

by their state regulations (www.homeopathic.org para 1-6) can benefit from homeopathy. While there are currently no licenses available for practicing homeopathy, according to the Homeopathic Directory (www.homeopathicdirectory.com), practitioners can obtain certifications from various organizations. Homeopathy has been shown to be effective in treating a range of ailments including colds, fatigue, back pain, and headaches. Numerous clinical studies conducted between 1966 and 1990 have demonstrated the effectiveness of homeopathy in treating health-related disorders such as headaches, respiratory infections, digestive diseases, ankle sprains, and more. Out of these studies, 81 showed significant benefits for patients. The Lancet and British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology also mentioned other studies confirming the high efficacy of homeopathy in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Blind studies revealed that patients with influenza recovered faster when using a homeopathic remedy compared to a placebo. German research reports and numerous clinical studies support the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies for hay fever, tooth extraction, Parkinson's disease, bronchitis, sinusitis migraines influenza motion sickness (www.online-ambulance.com).The text below discusses the education of homeopaths, the benefits of homeopathy, the distinction between certification and licensing, and presents an introduction to homeopathy as natural medicine for the 21st century. It also provides comprehensive information on all aspects of homeopathy.

References:
1. A Condensed History of Homeopathy by Dana Ullman
2. Source: http://nccam.nih.gov/about/offices/od/directortestimony/060700.htm Title: About NCCAM: NCCAM, NCI and Cancer Therapy
3. Source: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/homeopathy/index.htm Title: Questions and Answers about Homeopathy: National Center for Complementary Alternative Medicine, Publication No.D183
4. The Education of Homeopaths (http://www.online-ambulance.com/alternative/conditions_benefited_by_homeopat.html)
5. Benefits of Homeopathy (2003) (http://www.homeopathicdirectory.com/re_licensing.htm)
6. How Certification Differs From Licensing (http://www.homeopathic.org/history.htm)
7. Introduction to Homeopathy: Natural Medicine for the 21st Century (Copyright 2002) (http://www.indiaspace.com/homoeopathy/)
8. All About Homeopathy, You Always Wanted to Know by Shah R. (Copyright

2003)