Peak Health Therapies

What is Homeopathy?

Homeopathy was invented over 200 years ago by a German doctor, Samuel Hahnemann, and is the third largest system of medicine in the world. It is holistic, treating the whole person, not just their specific symptoms or illness. The homeopathic medicines - usually called remedies - stimulate the body's own power to heal itself, thus improving the immune system.

The remedies work on the basis of 'like treats like'. Something which can create a set of symptoms in a healthy person can also be used to treat similar symptoms in someone who is sick so red onion (Allium cepa) is excellent for treating hayfever where the primary symptom is streaming eyes. In the same way, Arsenicum album (white arsenic) which in material doses is a poison causing extreme vomiting and diarrhoea is an excellent remedy for these symptoms, particularly when caused by food which is suspected of being contaminated.

What can homeopathy treat?

Homeopathy can be used to treat all kinds of ailments - acute conditions such as coughs, sore throats and sports injuries, as well as chronic conditions such as asthma, eczema, ME, hayfever and allergies, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), plus menstrual/menopausal problems. This list is far from exhaustive and I would be happy to discuss whether homeopathy might be suitable in your case. It must always be remembered that homeopathy treats the person, not their symptoms or diagnosed condition.

Is homeopathy safe?

Although homeopathic remedies can have a powerful action, they are safe for everyone - pregnant women, babies, children and adults. They are also very effective during childbirth and I can supply kits (plus training) for parents to use in childbirth. It is helpful if someone other than the mother can take responsibility for deciding on the appropriate remedy!

Can I use homeopathic remedies with my prescription medication?

Yes. Although the precise mechanism of action of homeopathy is still not understood, their action is not dependent on their chemical action like prescription medications. As they work in a different way, their action does not conflict with that of prescription medication. Homeopathy complements the care you receive from your GP, it does not replace it.

What happens in a homeopathic consultation?

The first appointment is quite lengthy - usually 1 hours. You will be asked in detail about your current symptoms, lifestyle, diet, sleep patterns and how you respond to the world in general. You will also need to know your personal and family medical history, as this is important in choosing the most effective remedy for you.

Please bring details of any medications you are taking or have recently taking, including any vitamin, mineral or herbal supplements.

Second and subsequent appointments are shorter - usually between 30 and 45 minutes.

Remedies may be in tablet or liquid form, in a single of multiple dose. The remedy is given to you at the time of the consultation or posted to you within a day or two. You are given written instructions on how to take the remedy.

Home visits are available for those who have mobility problems, although an extra charge may be made. There is full disabled access at the therapy rooms and plenty of accessible parking (those with a parking badge for the disabled can park immediately outside Peak Health Therapies).

Can you use Homeopathy for sports injuries?

Yes, you certainly can. Homeopathic remedies can reduce recovery times for sprains and strains. Remedies can also be used to speed healing time for fractures, provided that the bones are in the correct alignment.

As sports injury treatments are more straightforward, the appointments normally only last 20 minutes.

The cost of all potentised remedies (ie tablets or liquid which have an X, C or LM number) is included in the treatment. There may be a charge for tinctures or creams.

Our Homeopath

The homeopath at Peak Health Therapies is Jane Stokes BA(Hons) LBSH RSHom EFT-CC, who trained at the British School of Homeopathy and has undergone postrgraduate training with Professor George Vithoulkas and Dr Jorgos Kavouros. In addition to practising homeopathy, Jane is also a qualified EFT(Emotional Freedom Technique) practitioner - a technique she also often uses with her homeopathy patients.

She has a special interest in children with ADD/ADHD and has had some considerable success in moderating the behaviour of some children. EFT can also be used very effectively with children.

Illustrations

The first illustration shows Delphinium, which is used to make the homeopathic remedy, Staphysagria.

The second photo, taken at the Eden Project in Cornwall, shows red onion or Allium cepa, which can be usedhomeopathically in the treatment of hayfever.

Both photos courtesy of Robin Stokes