by Cyndra Neal
Homeopathy? Brings to mind beaded doorways with the scent of burning patchouli incense wafting in the air and the melodic sounds of a sitar playing in the background with tree hugging, sandal sporting hippies in long flowing tie-dyed robes. Okay, I admit I am not very knowledgeable on the whole “natural thing”. But I did some research and it turns out homeopathy is a lot more mainstream than you’d think. With the recall of many children’s cough and cold medicines, it’s getting more popular every day.
Without getting too technical, basically you might liken homeopathy to making tea. Chamomile, which is a homeopathic remedy and used widely in teas to produce a calming effect, is diluted down in homeopathy, again and again to a solution that has not a molecule of Chamomile left but still can trigger the self healing properties of the flower. It is also safer than using the actual herbal oils or extracts of Chamomile because with the dilution comes the added benefit of a lessened risk of an allergic reaction.
Homeopathic remedies are actually considered medicines, not dietary supplements or herbals. They are manufactured using precise pharmaceutical methods in accordance with the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States (HPUS). Unlike herbals and dietary supplements, homeopathic medicine manufacturing must meet strict FDA guidelines for strength, quality, purity, and labeling. When you buy a homeopathic product you know it is regulated by the FDA and the HPUS and registered with the FDA.
A homeopathic product is not like Grandma’s Bunion Cream handed down from generation to generation. It is a scientific, regulated industry that you can feel safe to buy and use.