What is homeopathy? Homeopathy is based on the principle that "like cures like" and remedies are chosen to treat individuals based on detailed case histories and assessments of their physical, mental and emotional state of health.
The law of treating like with like, also called the law of similars, dates from Ancient Greek times. The principle is also described in Hindu texts and is based on the idea that a treatment will only work if it is already latent in the system. Homeopathy as we know it today was first formulated by German physician and chemist, Samuel Hahnemann (below right) in the early 19th century. Tomorrow is the 250th anniversary of his birth.
Homeopathic treatment
Homeopathic medicines are prescribed following the analysis of an individual's set of symptoms whereas allopathic or orthodox medicines are prescribed following the diagnosis of a specific illness or ailment.
What's in a remedy?
Homeopathic remedies are diluted forms of substances which would cause a similar set of symptoms in a healthy individual. The theory being that by mimicking the symptoms, the remedies will stimulate healing responses from the body. This explains why homeopaths often perceive a worsening of symptoms as a signal that a healing response will follow.
Why is it controversial?
Homeopathy is deemed controversial from a scientific point of view because its central tenet is that remedies become more potent or powerful the more diluted they are. This runs counter to the scientific principle that the dilution of substances weakens their concentration. However, the law of the minimum dose is based on the idea that if the patient was given stronger forms of the remedy, this would potentially aggravate the symptoms rather than provoke a healing response.
How do you find a practitioner?
Homeopaths, like all other complementary healthcare practitioners and many other professions such as architects, remain unregulated by the State. Anyone, regardless of their lack of qualifications or clinical experience, can set up as a homeopath and open for business.
The Irish Society of Homeopaths (ISH) is the only professional register for practising homeopaths in this country. To become a registered member of the ISH, members must have completed a four-year part-time course in homeopathy in one of the accredited colleges of homeopathy in Ireland or its equivalent in another country.
Registered homeopaths must also have been in clinical practice for one year and undergo a registration process that examines all aspects of their professional practice, including a visit to their practice. Continued professional development is also a requirement of registration.
Members must also abide by a code of ethics which includes such clauses that all treatment requires the consent of the patient and the homeopath must explain the nature of homeopathy. Registered members will use the initials IS Hom after their names. The ISH also has a complaints procedure which allows it strike off members. However, since its foundation in 1990, no registered members have been struck off.
Irish Medical Homeopaths is a group of medically trained doctors practising homeopathy. Its members have post-graduate training in homeopathic medicine qualifying as MF Hom (Members of the Faculty of Homeopathy from London or Glasgow).
Before attending any complementary therapist, a person should check whether the therapist belongs to an authentic register of practitioners which stipulates minimum training criteria and clinical experience. One should also check that practitioners abide by a code of ethics and are insured to practise.
Contacts
For a list of registered homeopaths contact the Irish Society of Homeopaths, tel: 091-565040 www.ishom.com. For a list of Irish Medical Homeopaths, tel: 01-2697768. See also www.trusthomeopathy.org, the website of the British Homeopathic Association