by Elise Bowerman
Often times I hear people using the word homeopathy synonymously with natural remedies. While homeopathy is a natural remedy; natural remedies are not homeopathic remedies.
The practice of Homeopathic Medicine (homeopathy) is a separate science from other natural remedies, like aromatherapy with essential oils, or herbology with plants. Homeopathy has it's own treatments, potencies, and uses.
Like the other methods that have been around way before pharmaceuticals, you can use homeopathic remedies at home to stay well, and heal when ill. Consulting a professional or classical homeopath is always a good idea, especially when dealing with chronic, genetic, or traumatic circumstances.
You'll notice there are a handful of books recommended. It's important to have more than one book, as the writers/professionals sometimes have slightly differing opinions for some remedies. It's slight, but enough to really help you figure out which remedy is right for the body/mind at the time. Plus, when using the books you can highlight and jot down notes to easily access the information again.
- The Complete Homeopathy Handbook by Miranda Castro, R.S.Hom.
This is my immediate go-to book. Castro is a brilliant homeopath and writes specifically for the layperson. - Take a homeopathy class with a local homeopath or an online course. Receive the tools you need from a professional who's been using homeopathics for years.
- Collect the 12 Cell Salts. These are the 12 minerals the human body is made up of. The theory, discovered by Dr. W. H. Schuessler in the late 1800's, is that illness or disease in the body may be caused by an imbalance of the 12 minerals. These remedies are a great way to begin practicing homeopathy.
- Calendula gel, lotion, ointment, or cream - or buy them all! Use this topically for cuts, burns, or rashes. No more A & D Ointment, Neosporin, Desitin, or whatever medicated stuff that's out there again!
- Most health food stores, drug stores and markets sell low potency homeopathic blends (30c or lower) for acute situations, like colds, flu, fever, earache, cough, teething, allergies, night-time rest, dry eyes, etc. Some brands include: Boiron, Hyland's, Newton Homeopathics, and Homeolab. These are another excellent way to start administering remedies. They are packaged with directions like over-the-counter medications.
- Arnica. It is the most used remedy in my household! Arnica may be used for bumps to the head, bruising of the body, and will support healing of wounds and sprains.
- The Complete Homeopathic Resource for Common Illnesses by Dennis Chernin, MD, MPH. As a local (Ann Arbor) practicing physician, Dr. Chernin, has a well-rounded perspective when healing since he is a medical doctor and homeopath.
BONUS: Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Postpartum Tips
- Homeopathy for Pregnancy, Birth and Your Baby's First Year by Miranda Castro, R.S.Hom. Castro supports women in a way that few do. This was our go-to resource for years when our kids were young in our home.
- Guide to Homeopathic Remedies for the Birth Bag by Patti Brennan (Ann Arbor.)
- Homeopathy Specifics: 18 Remedies for Childbirth from Helios Homœopathy. This is a set of remedies with an instructional guide to support women through the transition into motherhood. Specific remedies for pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum are offered.
- There is a Choice: Homeoprophylaxis by Cilla Whatcott, Ph.D., HD RHom, CCH
- Homeopathic Medicine for Children and Infants by Dana Ullman, MPH. This book is quick to investigate which remedy to use without over-thinking.
Get Started Today!
Local - Metro Detroit Area
Castle Remedies, Ann Arbor
*The only Michigan store open to the public who will make remedies while you wait in basically whatever potency and bottle size needed.
Zerbo's, Livonia
Better Health Food stores
Whole Foods
Plum Market
Online Stores / Kits
Boiron
Natural Health Supply
Washington Homeopathic Products
Hyland's Homeopathic
Newton's Homeopathics
Additional Websites
1-800Homeopathy.com
ABCHomeopathy.com
American Institute of Homeopathy
National Center for Homeopathy
Elixirs.com: Homeopathy for Health
British Homeopathic Association
Australian Homœopathic Association