Homeopathy
What is homeopathy?
Homeopathy (also known as homeopathic medicine) is a system of medicine that was developed by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843). It is based on the principle that illnesses are specific to individuals and that "like cures like." Its name derives from the Greek words hómoios (similar) and páthos (suffering). Homeopathy is particularly popular in Europe and India, and despite being unaccepted in scientific circles, it has grown in popularity in recent years in the United States as well.
Can homeopathy help people with cancer?
Yes. Cancer patients may find homeopathic remedies useful in helping to manage a variety of symptoms, such as loss of appetite and chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. These remedies may also be helpful as a treatment for insomnia, anxiety, and depression. They can also sometimes help with more general, constitutional issues, such as digestion, mental clarity, energy, and stamina. Although the precise mechanism of action of homeopathic remedies is not scientifically understood, many patients report improvements in these conditions and symptoms.
Homeopathy alone is not a proven treatment for cancer, nor has it been found to affect either cancer cells directly or the biology of an individual’s disease. It should not be used as a substitute for conventional care.
How does homeopathy work?
Homeopathy views illness as a dynamic disturbance in an individual’s vital force, and the remedies are intended to restore, or balance, this force. Homeopathic physicians prescribe treatments, called “remedies,” after an extensive interview process. Remedies may be ingestible tinctures or pills, or topical salves or ointments. Each remedy is highly specific for the individual, based on his or her physical, mental, and emotional symptoms.
Homeopathic remedies are made from small amounts of substances that, in larger amounts, would cause the very same symptoms that a patient is currently experiencing (hence the concept “like cures like”). This is, in some ways, similar in principle to how vaccines work against illnesses such as measles, smallpox, and polio, whereby a very small amount of the virus itself is used to inoculate against the disease.
Homeopathic remedies are diluted with water or alcohol to a point at which virtually no starting material remains. Vigorous shaking (called succession) is also performed between each sequential dilution. The liquid is believed to retain a "memory" or the “energetic vibration” of the original material (often flowers or plant-based materials). The therapeutic potency of these remedies is believed to be increased by additional serial dilutions.
Are there any risks or complications associated with homeopathy?
Generally, no. Homeopathy is usually safe when combined with conventional cancer treatment. However, discuss your interest in homeopathy with your physicians to make sure there are no potential conflicts with your conventional care.
How can I find a qualified homeopathy practitioner?
It is important to select a practitioner who is qualified, experienced, properly credentialed, and trustworthy. Click here to learn more about how to do this.