What is homœopathy?

Homœopathy is an effective and scientific system of healing which assists the natural tendency of the body to heal itself. It recognises that all symptoms of ill health are expressions of disharmony within the whole person and that it is the person that needs treatment rather that their disease.

Homœopathy uses remedies made from a very wide range of substances including minerals and plants. They are made through a process of repeated dilution and shaking which makes them more potent but also safer. Since there are only infinitessimal amounts of the substance in the remedy they cannot act like conventional drugs which override the body's own healing mechanisms. Instead they stimulate the body into doing whatever is necessary to return the body to a state of health. The remedies work with the body to promote a state of balance, strengthen the immune system and help the body to more easily cope with the stresses of life. The remedies are usually given as tablets or in water.

For instance, instead of treating a child's sore throat with antibiotics which will remove the inflamation but may weaken the child's immune system and do nothing to prevent a recurrence of the problem, a homœopath will try to use the body's built-in healing system to actually cure the problem permanently.

This system of healing by 'similars' has been successfully used since early Egyptian times but it was not unitl 180 years ago that a German scientist and doctor called Samuel Hahnemann published a modern description of its philosophy and method of practice. He called this system 'homœopathy' which means 'similar feeling' since the basic pronciple is that any substance which can cause symptoms when given to a healthy person can help to heal someone who is experiencing similar symptoms.

Because homœopathic remedies are so dilute there is no risk of side effects. They are non habit-forming and safe for anyone to take; from tiny babies to the elderly. They are also safe to use during pregnancy and labour. Homœopathy is effective for a very wide range of illnesses; mental & behavioural problems, emotional upset and physical disease. It is equally successful in treating chronic (long lasting) illness such as asthma and MS as it is in helping with acute problems including first aid and childhood illnesses.

Treatment

People find their first appointment with a homœopath a very different experience to visiting a conventional doctor. Your homœopath will want to know all about you (or your child) and there will be plenty of time for you to talk and discuss any issues that concern you. You may be asked general questions about your likes and dislikes, sleeping habits and reaction to wet weather as well as specific questions concerning any problems you may have. Your homœopath will use all this information to prescribe a remedy that matches your symptom picture and personality. She will discuss any other treatment you may be having and is happy to work with your own GP/specialist and other therapists as necessary. There is no need to stop taking any medication you are taking immediately. This may be reduced or discontinued when appropriate.

Our Practitioner

Janet Harding

RSHom NWCH Manchester 1997

Health Insurance - Various private health insurers including HSA.

Janet is particularly interested in treating children, especially those suffering from vaccine damage, she also works very closely with the cranial osteopaths in the treatment of chronic complaints. As a supervisor for students working towards professional qualifications Janet encourages them to sit in with her for clinical experience. She regularly runs First Aid Courses and is always happy to talk to interested groups.