Homeopathy is a holistic therapeutic system based on the principle that 'like treats like', that is a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can be used to treat a person suffering with similar symptoms. Homeopaths use specially prepared, highly diluted substances, given mainly in tablet or liquid form. Prescriptions are tailored to each individual patient, according to their specific symptoms.

THE HOLISTIC APPROACH
Homeopathy can be described as a holistic approach, which looks at a person as a whole. Holistic approaches have existed throughout history and are used in science and medicine. Homeopathic medicines, often called remedies, are non-toxic and only minute amounts of active ingredients are used in their preparation. They are considered safe to be used by all including babies, children, women during pregnancy and also breast feeding mothers.

FINDING YOUR INDIVIDUAL REMEDY
In order to find a homeopathic remedy that matches you and your symptoms as precisely as possible, a homeopath needs to get a thorough understanding of the exact symptoms you are experiencing. During a confidential, in-depth consultation, a homeopath will consider all aspects of your health and wellbeing including your past medical history, diet, lifestyle and personality type, as well as your current health problems.

SEEING A HOMEOPATH
The initial homeopathic consultation usually lasts for at least 45 minutes, whilst follow up appointments may be shorter. Individual homeopaths work in different ways, so you will be advised what to expect when you book your  first appointment.
If a homeopathic prescription is needed after a consultation, this may come in tablet, liquid or powdered form, often supplied by a specialist homeopathic pharmacy. As homeopathic remedies are taken differently from conventional medicines, do make sure that you understand the instructions given to you by your homeopath before you take your remedy.
The length of a homeopathic session depends very much on what symptoms you are experiencing and how long you have had them, as well as the other individual characteristics of your case. If you have a long-standing chronic condition, a course of treatment may be needed. As a guideline you can typically expect to see a homeopath once a month for three months. If further treatment is needed you may find that follow-ups are scheduled at progressively longer intervals. However, since homeopathy focuses on the individual each case will require an individual treatment strategy.

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
Homeopathic remedies are most often made from plant, chemical, mineral or animal sources. The original material is diluted and then shaken vigorously (succussed). The number of times this is repeated determines the strength or 'potency' of the remedy. Remedies are usually prepared by specialist pharmacies.
The fact that homeopathic medicines are so highly diluted has led some critics to say that homeopathic remedies are 'nothing but water'. However, some research does suggest that repeated vigorous shaking during the manufacturing process may cause new water structures to be formed, which capture information about the original substance dissolved in the water. 
While science has yet to explain exactly how homeopathic medicines work on a molecular or cellular level, laboratory experiments suggest that 'ultrahigh dilutions' as used in homeopathic remedies have biological effects.

YOUR GP
It is strongly recommended that you maintain your relationship with your GP. Homeopathy is a complimentary therapy and can be used alongside conventional approaches to give the most appropriate medical care for you personally.

RESEARCH & EVIDENCE
Find out more here