Homeopathics are natural health components that are part of a therapeutic system. Nutrients used in homeopathy are primarily extracted from minerals and plants.
- May help with minor health issues.**
- A centuries-old traditional wellness system.**
- Supply minute amounts of active ingredients.**
What are Homeopathics?
Homeopathics are part of a wellness practice known as homeopathy. This system involves addressing health issues by using natural substances that have been highly diluted with the intention of stimulating the body’s natural healing processes. Homeopathy is centered on the concept of treating "like with like," also known as the "law of similars." The approach posits that a substance that can have negative effects when taken in large amounts can be used in very small doses to contend with those same adverse results. Since compounds utilized in the homeopathic system are offered at such high dilutions, the body tends to accept them with no negative side effects.**
The general concept behind this form of natural therapy dates back to the most renowned ancient Greek physician, Hippocrates. However, in its established incarnation, homeopathy was pioneered during the early 19th century, with German practitioner Samuel Hahnemann devising both the term and the specific approach. One of his primary concerns was developing a wellness system that did not damage the body as it worked to relieve and heal specific issues.**
The 2007 National Health Interview Survey found that approximately four million American adults and one million children had taken some kind of homeopathy product in the prior year. Between the years 2008 and 2013, the homeopathic industry grew roughly 7% annually, suggesting increasing interest in this natural approach to wellness. Some of the most widely used homeopathics include:**
- Arnica: Derived from the Arnica montana flower, this herb has long been used in the traditional wellness practices of North America and Europe. A staple plant in homeopathy, it is called upon to relieve aches, especially joint issues, and promote healing, particularly in the case of bruising. Due to these attributes, athletes often utilize arnica in topical form.**
- Rhus Tox: Also referred to as Rhus toxicodendron, this plant is commonly called poison ivy. While it has a negative reputation because of its harmful sap, Rhus tox is valued as a homeopathic ingredient that aids with muscle strains and sprains.**
- Belladonna: Known as nightshade, belladonna is a perennial plant that contains tropane alkaloids, which can lead to serious adverse effects at full potency. However, in extremely diluted form, belladonna has numerous wellness uses, primarily related its inflammation-modulating activity.**
- Nux vomica: Also called poison nut, nux vomica features alkaloids that homeopaths employ to alleviate digestive issues. The herb is additionally used to help relieve problems that arise due to excessive intake of certain substances, including alcohol.**
- Calendula officinalis: This flower is better known as the pot marigold, and it contains various antioxidants compounds, including lutein. Research has shown that Calendula officinalis assists in regulating inflammation, and, in homeopathy, this concept may be applied to encouraging immune health, as well as skin and digestive wellness.**
- Bryonia alba: Another plant that is linked to adverse effects in nature, Bryonia alba or white bryony has associations with modulating inflammation in its diluted state. Those who exercise regularly may take it for connections to pain relief, and it also exhibits adaptogenic qualities that help the body adjust to uncomfortable situations.**
- Allium cepa: Commonly known as the onion, Allium cepa is appreciated in homeopathy for its associations with supporting healthy mucous membranes during times of seasonal change or allergies. While onion may cause runny nose and watery eyes in its full potent form, as a considerably diluted homeopathic ingredient, it may help to ease these issues.**
Homeopathic Products
Homeopathics typically originate from botanical or mineral sources. These compounds many be available as tablets or in topical form as creams, gels and ointments. While some homeopathic nutrients are offered on their own, these ingredients are often part of formulas targeting specific health issues.**
Homeopathics Directions for Use
It is advisable to consult with your physician before taking any homeopathic products. There is no established recommended dosage for these supplements. Active ingredient content may vary widely, but these products typically contain highly diluted compounds. Homeopaths have developed a potency scale—X notes a 1:10 dilution, while C means a 1:100 ratio.**
