The word homeopathy, derived from the Greek, means ‘similar suffering’. The therapy is based on the principle that ‘like cures like’. Homeopathy believes that if a substance can produce the symptoms of illness when taken in a large dose, it has the potential to heal the same symptoms when taken in an infinitesimally small dose. And it does this without causing any harm.

The concept of ‘like curing like’ has been around for thousand years, but the development of homeopathy as a medical system took place only relatively recently, with the work of the German doctor, chemist and linguist Samuel Hahnemann (1755 – 1843). With homeopathy, Hahnemann developed a system that embraces a natural form of healing and treats the whole person, not just the symptoms.

He proved or tested about 100 remedies, almost of all of which are regularly used today. Many more remedies have been discovered since Hahnemann’s time. Remedies are prepared from a variety of sources (plants, minerals, even venoms) but are given in such small amounts that they are gentle and safe. The full name of a homeopathic remedy is usually the Latin for the plant or other source material, for example, Arsenicum album. However, most homeopaths use abbreviated forms, either the first word of the Latin name – in this example, Arsenicum – or a short form of both words – Ars. alb.

Before attempting home treatment, always obtain a medical diagnosis for symptoms for which you would normally seek your doctor’s advice. Most homeopathic remedies are readily available, usually in either pill or liquid form. For injuries, a topical cream, which you apply liberally and rub in gently, may be used. Choose homeopathic Arnica cream for bruises and Calendula cream for minor cuts and sores.

Turning a substance into a homeopathic remedy is a process called potentisation. This involves alternatively diluting and shaking the substance, often until no physical molecules of the original substance remain. It is believed that the more dilute the solution, the stronger its effect. Homeopathic dosage intervals vary from once an hour to once a day, according to your condition. Because homeopathic remedies are used in such minute dilutions, there is little chance of any harm arising from overprescribing. However, a remedy may cause a temporary worsening of symptoms before it starts to relieve them.