Homeopathic Treatment FAQ

I have heard that I can antidote my remedy, is that true?

Generally, you shouldn’t worry about “antidoting” your homeopathic remedies, although there are certain substances which have been shown to counteract the healing effects of a homeopathic remedy and it is sensible to avoid these while you are pursuing homeopathic treatment.

The effects of a homeopathic remedy (even a single dose) can last for several weeks and sometimes several months so it is advisable to stay away from certain substances (like strong aromatic oils) for the duration of your homeopathic treatments and not just for a short time after you take the remedy.

 

Should I avoid all aromatherapy oils?

No. Some strong aromatic oils, in particular, eucalyptus and camphor (in ointments such as Tiger Balm, Vicks Vaporub etc) have been shown to have a negative effect. Please also avoid the use of undiluted aromatherapy oils such as tea tree oil and menthol during the course of your treatment (i.e., those with especially strong odours).

Milder oils such as lavender and rosemary diluted in bath or massage oils are fine, as are colognes and perfumes.

 

What about peppermint in sweets and toothpaste?

Peppermint in ordinary toothpaste and mouthwashes is not a problem, neither is mild chewing gum. The stronger peppermints (like Altoids) are best avoided during homeopathic treatment.

Mint in cooking is fine, both as a fresh herb in salads etc and in teas (on its own or mixed with other herbs).

Can I go to the dentist while I am having homeopathic treatment?

Of course you can! It is important that you keep your teeth cleaned and checked regularly and these visits will not affect your homeopathic treatment.

If you are planning a course of dental treatment, there are remedies available to assist in a speedy recovery or to help overcome “nerves” or to prevent infection.

 

Can I drink coffee while I am seeing a homeopath?

Many people can tolerate a moderate amount of coffee and have no difficulty with drinking one cup a day.

Some people are sensitive to it and find their nervous systems overstimulated by even a moderate amount. In this case their vitality and their general healing   responses will be affected. If you fit into this category then you might consider cutting out coffee for the duration of your treatment.

Certain remedies are sensitive to the effects of coffee. Please advise me if you drink coffee and especially if you drink more than one cup a day.

 

Should I avoid Coca-Cola, tea and chocolate since they all contain caffeine?

If you find that the effect of tea is similar to coffee then it is wise to take only moderate amounts or stop entirely. If you are not sensitive then there is no need to stop altogether but you might want to use them in moderation for the sake of your general health.

 

Can I drink alcohol or smoke?

Moderate use of alcohol (1-2 units a day) doesn’t interfere with homeopathic treatment (unless you are strongly affected by it), nor does tobacco smoking. Both alcohol and tobacco affect your health, especially if you are a pregnant woman and should be avoided.

The remedy you gave me helped so much I bought another bottle of it. How should I take it?

You shouldn’t take another remedy without talking with me first. Repeating a remedy that has helped can be counter-productive and may actually cause your symptoms to return.

 

What should I do if I fall ill with a cough or a cold between visits?

If your acute illness is familiar to you it may be a healing response (a temporary return of old symptoms) and will pass quite quickly. Please call for reassurance if you are at all concerned.

If you do not have a straightforward cold or minor, everyday illness you should check with your primary care doctor to make sure you do not have a serious infection.

If the illness is unrelated to anything you have experienced in the past…and you know others who have a similar illness (the latest “bug” going around), then you can use homeopathy to help you through it. You will need to make a half-hour appointment with me so that I can go over your symptoms in detail (see the Acute Complaints sheet).

 

Can I take Aspirin for a fever?

It is generally inadvisable to use Aspirin or Tylenol to suppress a fever. Fevers are one of the body’s self-healing mechanisms and actually help your body to fight infection. As long as you temperature is not too high it is healthier to let nature take its course.

While you are sick it is important to take care of yourself in order to aid your healing process. If you feel quite unwell it is wise to go to bed and stay there! Rest and sleep as much as possible. Drink plenty of fluids (water or fruit juices) and eat only if you feel hungry.

 

What can I do for pain, when I am sick or have a headache or menstrual cramps?

If you are in pain and are not able to contact me you can take the occasional pain-reliever. This is generally not a problem.

Please let me know if you take pain-relieving medication (especially in large quantities) on a regular basis.

 

I inadvertently had something to eat after I took my remedy. Do I need another dose?

No, don’t worry. It is recommended that you stay away from food and drink for a short time before and after taking your remedy but if you forgot with one of your doses it generally doesn’t matter.

 

Will the remedies interact badly with my conventional medicines?

Not usually. Homeopathic remedies work well alongside most conventional medicines.

You should never discontinue your conventional medications without consulting your medical doctors.

It may be important to have your doctor monitor the medications you are taking as your requirements for long-term drugs may change during the course of homeopathic treatment.

 

What about vitamins & minerals and other supplements?

It is fine to take an all-purpose multi-vitamin or B vitamins. Vitamin C, vitamin A or fish oils are also fine.

 

What about botanical tinctures or Chinese herbal preparations?

Please let me know if you are taking these, especially if a naturopathic physician or an acupuncturist has prescribed them. Requirements for these can change if homeopathic treatment is effective.

 

What about some of the other alternative therapies?

Many alternative therapies are complementary. Reiki and cranio-sacral osteopathy are two common systems of healing that are complementary to homeopathy.

In addition, many people find it beneficial to take various self-healing courses to boost their vitality, not just on a physical level. Yoga, meditation and Qi gong are all effective healing tools.

 

What about non-prescribed substances?

Recreational drugs (like marijuana) have been found to counteract the effect of a homeopathic remedy. They are best avoided during treatment and if this is not possible, please advise me.

 

What about anti-perspirants?

Although using antiperspirants will not counteract the healing effects of homeopathic treatment it is generally unwise to stop your body from sweating. Suppressing your sweat (whether it is under your arms or on you feet) can cause other problems, as sweating is one of your body’s natural ways to eliminate.

A deodorant is a safer alternative as it won’t prevent your body from sweating, but it will stop the bad smells.

I would also suggest that using deodorant be limited to those times that you really need it and try to go without anything when you can.

 

Is there anything else I should avoid?

Magnets and electric blankets (left on all night) have been known to counteract the effects of treatment. But like the coffee question, it is more an issue of sensitivity.