Is Homeopathy like herbal medicine ?
Homeopathy is very different to herbalism. Although the two therapies can both use natural plant-based medicines, the way the medicines are prepared, and the way they are taken is very different. Herbalism uses only medicinal plants to make its remedies. Herbal remedies may be given as mixtures of several ingredients that act together, and are usually taken once or more a day. They work on the principle of contraries. In other words if you have a fever, herbs will be given which will act counter to the fever and cool you down. Some herbal formulae are potentially toxic if taken in large doses. Homeopathis remedies are made from a variety of substances, including medicinal herbs. non-herbal plants, minerals, metals, and some animal products, such as milk and snake venom. The remedies are ‘potentized’; a process unique to homeopathy, where the original substance is diluted and succused (shaken) repeatedly. This process minimizes side effects, and ensures that the remedies are non-toxic.
Homeopathy is not the same thing as herbal medicine, but many herbs are often diluted and prepared to be used as homeopathic remedies. Because remedies are used in small non-toxic doses, they do not affect the body in the same way as full strength herbal medicine. Homeopathic remedies are prepared in a way that makes them extremely safe for all ages and stages of life.
