Louise Deplae, BA (hons), DSH, R.S. Hom
HOMEOPATHY: A gentle way to better health

Frequently asked questions

Is homeopathy recognised as a global health care system?

Yes, in 2005 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that homeopathy is the second–most used medical system internationally. About 500 million people rely on homeopathic treatment in the world.

Which countries have homeopathy as part of their national health system?

Brazil, India, Mexico, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the UK according to a WHO report in 2001. In all of these (except for the UK) homeopathy is used in the treatment of TB, Cancer, Malaria, HIV and any other serious diseases.

Where is homeopathy legal?

Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, France, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, USA, Venezuela. This was in 2001; in the meantime homeopathy is available in many more countries.

How long has homeopathy been recognised in the UK?

In 1950 the Government gave official recognition to homeopathy in the Faculty of Homeopathy Act. Successive governments have ensured that as long as patients require complementary/alternative treatment, access to it will be guaranteed. As a result, the UK is the only country in the European Union with public-sector hospitals for homeopathy.

See www.homeopathyworkedforme.org for more facts and figures and for a list of NHS hospitals in the UK

Is homeopathy legal?

The practice of homeopathy in the UK is not yet regulated by law but the Society of Homeopaths is currently submitting an application to the Health Professions Council for statutory regulation of homeopaths. Regulation will offer protection to the public as, under existing laws, someone without training could practise as a homeopath.

The application coincides with the tenth anniversary of the House of Lords’ Select Committee on Science & Technology report into Complementary & Alternative Medicine (session 1999–2000), which categorised homeopathy as a ‘Group One’ therapy along with acupuncture, chiropractic, herbal medicine and osteopathy.

What is the registration process for qualified homeopaths?

The Society of Homeopaths – see www.homeopathy-soh.org – the UK’s largest register of professional homeopaths was founded in 1978 and represents 65% of the profession. To become qualified, it is necessary to undertake rigorous academic and clinical training at an approved school or university. This is usually a 4 or 5 year part–time course or a 3 year full time course. Proof of a valid qualification – diploma or degree – is needed before being admitted to the register. Registered homeopaths have to practise in accordance with the Society’s Code of Ethics and Practice, hold professional insurance and refresh and develop their professional skills via supervision and continuing professional development education. Other registering bodies for homeopaths are the Alliance of Registered Homeopaths (ARH) and the Homeopathic Medical Association.

Can homeopathy treat any condition?

The Code of Ethics and Practice produced by the Society of Homeopaths states clearly that homeopathy ‘serves to prevent ill health as well as being of benefit to most patients in both acute and chronic disease’. However there is recognition that ‘no one system can deal with all that an individual may need, nor serve the entire population’.

If a patient has reached a state of ill health that has caused severe organ damage homeopathy may only be able to offer palliative care.

Homeopaths do not carry out surgery but remedies can help the healing process before and after surgery.

A patient’s life style can prevent an improvement in health e.g. poor diet or living conditions; constant exposure to an irritant e.g. wheat, dairy or chemicals. These conditions do not allow the body to heal itself and it may be necessary to remove these ‘obstacles’ until the person has recovered enough to be unaffected.

If the symptoms of the illness are regularly suppressed by conventional medicine this can block the efficacy of homeopathic remedies.

What are the remedies made from?

Remedies are obtained from mineral, vegetable and animal kingdoms. The source material goes through a refining process to produce a ‘potency’. This involves both dilution and physical grinding called trituration or agitation called succussing. It is thought that the curative energy of the source is imprinted in the water, like passing on a message. This method of preparation transforms poisonous substances into powerful healing energy.

There are five homeopathic pharmacies in the UK (see www.homeopathy-soh.org/about-homeopathy/find-a-pharmacy/ to find a homeopathic pharmacy).

How are remedies discovered or tested?

Remedies are first tested or ‘proved’ on volunteers.‘ Double blind’ conditions ensure that nobody knows the name of the substance being tested. The remedy is given to many people who keep a detailed diary of all mental, emotional and physical changes for an agreed period of time (usually two months). After collating the evidence from all the proving diaries it is possible to build up a complex symptom picture. Homeopathic materia medica is based on the effects of the remedies on human beings. No animal testing is used or needed.

Are homeopathic remedies safe?

Homeopathic remedies, properly prescribed, are safe and can be given to people of all ages, pregnant women, babies and children. Pregnancy and childhood are excellent times to treat, as the patient’s constitution is strengthened and immunity to disease is increased.

What questions will I be asked in a consultation?

The initial consultation is for you to explain your reasons for seeking treatment and for you to have the time and space to talk freely. You will be asked about your medical history as well as that of your family. You will be encouraged to talk about your symptoms and how you experience them rather than being asked for a list of ‘disease labels’. Your emotional responses to situations are just as important as your physical complaints.

Can I have a pre–consultation discussion before committing to an appointment?

Yes, this is encouraged and does not cost anything. It is better to be clear about the treatment before you start.

Can I book an appointment on behalf of someone else?

Yes, if the patient is a child under 16 years of age, and you are the person with parental responsibility for that child; or if the patient is incapacitated and you have authority to make appointments on the patient’s behalf.

 

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