What is Homeopathy?

Homeopathy is a gentle form of holistic medicine that seeks to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms through the use of highly diluted substances (usually in small tablet form). Originating from the Greek words “homoios” (similar) and “pathos” (suffering or disease), the underlying principle of homeopathy is the law of similars. This means that a substance that can produce symptoms in a healthy person can, in minute amounts, be used to treat similar symptoms in an ill person.  In homeopathy these diluted remedies trigger the body’s self-healing mechanisms.

Homeopathy takes a holistic approach and considers the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of the patient to select a remedy tailored to their specific needs. Remedies are prepared through a process of repeated dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking), resulting in substances that may contain little molecular trace of the original ingredient.

The History of Homeopathy

Homeopathy was developed in the late 18th century by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician dissatisfied with the medical practices of his time. Traditional medicine in the 1700s often relied on harsh and invasive treatments such as purging and the use of toxic substances. Hahnemann found these methods not only ineffective but frequently harmful to patients.

Hahnemann’s inspiration for homeopathy came while translating a medical text describing how cinchona bark (a source of quinine) was used to treat malaria. Curious about its effects, he consumed the bark himself and experienced symptoms similar to those of malaria. This observation led him to propose the principle of the law of similars.

Hahnemann spent the following years refining his ideas and testing various substances on himself and his colleagues. He compiled his findings into “The Organon of the Healing Art,” a foundational text for homeopathy that outlined its principles and practices. Homeopathy quickly gained popularity in Europe and the United States during the 19th century as a gentler alternative to conventional medicine. Hospitals and medical schools dedicated to homeopathy were established, and remedies became widely available.

How Does Homeopathy Work?

Homeopathy works on a principle known as “the law of similars”. This law states that a substance which can cause a particular set of symptoms to appears, can also be used to bring relief to someone experiencing a similar set of symptoms. For example. coffee, or Coffea as it is knows in Latin, is a stimulant which can bring about temporary insomnia. Coffea, when prepared as a homeopathic remedy, can be helpful to some people experiencing the symptoms of insomnia. Another example is that chopping onions can make your eyes water and your nose run. The red onion, Allium cepa, can be used homeopathically to help treat colds and hayfever where the main symptoms include watery eyes and a runny nose.

What Conditions Can Be Treated Using Homeopathy?

Homeopathy can be used to address a wide range of acute and chronic conditions including:

• respiratory conditions (asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis and seasonal allergies)
• chronic skin disorders (such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne)
• digestive disorders
• mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress)
• chronic pain conditions (arthritis, back pain, migraines, and fibromyalgia)
• Women’s Health Issues (menstrual irregularities, menopausal symptoms, and hormonal imbalances)
• Acute Illnesses (colds, flu, and minor injuries)

About Sharon Morris

Sharon Morris SDSHom MARH, Lic.Ac. has been working as a homeopath since 2007, having previously worked in the NHS as a Registered General Nurse and Midwife. She went on to study Acupuncture at ICOM (International College of Oriental Medicine) where she graduated with a first class licentiate in Acupuncture.

Due to her experience as a midwife Sharon is particularly interested in women’s health and helping women to navigate the various milestones of life from puberty to pregnancy through to menopause.

Using homeopathy Sharon treats the whole person – physically, emotionally and spiritually. She prescribes highly diluted substances (usually in tablet form) to stimulate the body’s own healing mechanisms.

If you would like to know more about how Sharon works and whether homeopathy might be something you would like to try, please contact Sharon by email or phone 07919 347869. She will normally reply within 24 hours.

Sharon is also a licensed Acupuncturist and you have the additional option to combine your homeopathy treatment with an Acupuncture treatment.