Homeopathy

Homeopathy is based on the principle that "like cures like." In homeopathy, a person is given small amounts of a substance that, if taken in large amounts, is thought to cause the same symptoms the person has. According to homeopathy, symptoms result from the body's attempt to heal itself. Thus, small amounts of a substance that causes symptoms can be used to stimulate the person's body to heal itself.

The remedies used in homeopathy are very dilute. The more dilute a remedy is, the stronger it is thought to be. Some remedies are so dilute that modern technology cannot detect the active substance. The active substance may come from plants or animals or may be a mineral. Examples are belladonna (from the deadly nightshade plant), venom (from pit vipers), calcium carbonate (from oyster shells), and the minerals sulfur and arsenic. Sometimes dilutions of drugs such as penicillin or streptomycin are used. Alcohol is usually used to dilute the substance.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers homeopathic products drugs, but it does not regulate them as drugs. For example, they are not tested for strength. They are considered so weak that their use poses little risk to the user. Homeopathic products claimed to treat serious disorders (such as cancer) may be available only by prescription from homeopathic practitioners. Only products used for minor disorders (such as colds or headaches) are available without a prescription (over-the-counter).

To determine what remedy is appropriate, homeopathic practitioners evaluate the person's mental, emotional, and physical condition and consider the person's history, personality, and lifestyle. For example, a person may be asked about food preferences and sleep habits. A well-trained, preferably licensed practitioner should be sought.

Medicinal claims: Homeopathy has been used to treat many disorders. The claims of homeopathy are hard to evaluate. Most studies have been small and poorly designed. No well-designed studies have shown that homeopathy is effective as treatment for any specific disorder.

Possible problems: Homeopathic remedies are thought to be relatively safe because they are so dilute. Allergic reactions may occur. Depending on the strength of a homeopathic remedy, the remedy may interact with other drugs.