Rules for Taking Homeopathics

Homeopathic medicine is a type of alternative medicine that uses micro-doses of natural substances to encourage the body to heal itself. This discipline focuses on stimulating healing, rather than suppressing symptoms. Unlike conventional medications, homeopathic medicines have few to no side effects. There are still rules about how to take them, though. Taking homeopathics incorrectly could cause them to be less effective.

Dosage

• Homeopathic remedies can be taken in pill form, as tinctures or topically. Users with alcohol sensitivities may dissolve tinctures in water and sip over a longer period. Follow dosage instructions as listed on the package or from your homeopathic practitioner. Use low dosages (1x to 10x for acute problems), medium doses (12x to 50x) for problems that last more than 10 days and high dosages (60x or greater) for acute symptoms. Never mix and match remedies, as they can cancel one another out.

Avoid

• Taking food, drink, gum or even toothpaste by mouth during the 10 to 20 minutes before and after dosage may interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. Most homeopathy guides also recommend avoiding tea tree oil and eucalyptus while using homeopathic medicines. Camphor, used in muscle rubs and moth balls, is also thought to cause problems.

Contamination

• Some people dispense homeopathic remedies directly from the container into their mouths. This increases the risk of contamination. Never allow saliva to contact the dropper or cap of the medication bottle. Remedies may also be contaminated or degraded by exposure to high heat, extreme cold, sunlight and strong electro-magnetic waves.

Foods

• Some foods may interfere with the function of homeopathics. These include mints, such as spearmint, peppermint and menthol. Raw garlic should be avoided, though cooked garlic will not cause problems. Avoid caffeine and similar stimulants during treatment. This includes chocolate, tea, coffee and soda, as well as most energy products.