Homeopathy and Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathy is an old medical philosophy that was developed in Germany in the 18th century. Principles of homeopathy come with the traditional view of medicine, when doctors believed that nature can cure everything.

Today, many doctors say that homeopathy should not be a substitute for modern methods of treatment, but that in some cases is proven to be useful. Homeopathic medicines come from plants, but also from poisons of various animals (snakes, spiders).

The most common homeopathic remedies:

Belladonna - this is an extract of the flower of the same name. It was already used in the 16th century in order to cheeks get a natural red color. Romans prefered it because of its toxic properties. However, if the plant is properly processed, it becomes a drug that can help relieve fever.

Gelsemium - this beautiful yellow flower is poisonous. If processed properly, releases its healing properties and helps to relieve the symptoms of flu.

Pulsatilla - this plant is one of the oldest homeopathic remedies. If taken in excessive quantities can cause irregular and slow heartbeat, diarrhea and vomiting. The regular intake can help with flu, colds, coughs and sinus infections.

Arnica - comes from the sunflower family, and is used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It can help relieve muscle pain, healing wounds and scratches. The components of the plant stimulate blood flow to the skin surface.

Many medical experts are skeptical toward homeopathy. There is no scientific evidence that would make homeopathy so accepted by conventional medicine. Some studies have shown that the positive effects of homeopathy are placebo effects only.

Very little research is conducted on homeopathic treatments. And while there is some research that suggests that homeopathy relieves the symptoms of some conditions (influenza, menopause), the evidence are not so sure that homeopathy would become accepted by conventional medicine.

Many experts point out that homeopathic treatments can have a positive effect on the body, but that homeopathy should not replace conventional medicine, especially in people with serious health problems. Homeopathic treatment can be practiced with conventional treatment and in these cases gives the best results.

Any medicine can cause a variety of side effects, even the natural one. Most homeopathic medicines are safe, but should be used with the advice of experts. However, many homeopathic remedies can cause various side effects, including abdominal pain, headache, nausea, rash, liver and pancreas damages. There are not many, but there are cases where homeopathy  caused serious health problems such as kidney failure.

Negative consequences occur when homeopathy is not used properly, when combined with other drugs or when homeopathic medicines are taken without prior consultation with a specialist.

Because of the potentially hazardous ingredients, homeopathic remedies should not be given to children, pregnant women and nursing mothers. People taking other medications should consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking homeopathic remedies, how to avoid dangerous and deadly consequences.

If you want to try homeopathic remedies, contact an expert in homeopathy and consult with your doctor. It is important to know what medications you are taking, family history and your overall health.