Am I Taking Too Many Homeopathic Medicines?

Q.

I'm terrified of doctors and hospitals and over the last 6 months I have started to take homeopathic medicines (which are for stiffness in joints and creaking bones - mainly hips). Can I take too many? At the moment I am taking:

• 6 x daily rosehip 750mg capsules
• 2 x 550mg ginger root caps
• 4 x herbal water retention tablets
• Just started Celadrin capsules x 6
• Plus I am taking 3-4 ibuprofen

I've been feeling giddy - could this be due to some of these pills? Am I overdoing them? I am quite concerned why I feel like this, you always imagine that this type of medicine is safe.

A.

Many people try different sorts of medication when they want to find a cure for a health problem that is troubling them. Some people stick to medicines that are prescribed by a doctor, while others seek alternative medicines.

Still others stick to homeopathic medication, which uses a combination of animal, plant and mineral sources to stimulate the body's defences and, hopefully, allow the body to heal itself.

What is Homeopathy?

Homeopaths believe that a person can cure his or her symptoms by taking a substance which stimulates the body's natural defences. This type of medicine is predicated on taking a highly diluted substance, predominantly in some type of tablet form, to start the body's natural healing process. It has been practiced in the UK for more than 200 years.

Basically, you are taking a little of what ails you, as homeopaths believe that the same substance that causes negative symptoms can also result in a cure. Homeopaths also believe that a cure involving both mind and body is important, and a good homeopath will prescribe a remedy that is unique to your own special needs and requirements.

Homeopaths claim that the remedies you take affect the energy in your body while no substance is actually being released into your cells or tissues. That is why homeopathic remedies are considered safe for everyone, including the elderly, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and even small babies.

In that way, these medicines differ from conventional medicine and also from many types of alternative medicines, both of which can interact with other medication you may be taking and either cause them to be ineffective or even dangerous. Unlike prescribed medication, there is also no danger that homeopathic medicines can be addictive.

Too Much of a Good Thing?

It is virtually impossible to take an overdose of homeopathic medications – as long as what you take is properly mixed, i.e. highly diluted.

Some people, however, say that their symptoms got worse after taking homeopathic medication. That is because in many cases, symptoms worsen before getting better. Homeopaths say that is actually a sign that the prescribed dosage is working correctly!

You have been taking a number of medicines - assumedly you have visited a qualified homeopath and have not been simply self-dosing. If you have not seen a homeopath, you should visit a qualified one as soon as possible to discuss a course of action.

If, after seeing a homeopath, your symptoms do improve with time, it may be time to see a conventional doctor to rule out any serious cause for your symptoms. While homeopathy can successfully treat a variety of complaints, good homeopaths will not say it is a cure-all for absolutely everything.

What Can Homeopathy Treat, Then?

Homeopaths believe that homeopathy can treat everything from sore throat to toothache, and can also be helpful in treating chronic conditions such as eczema and anxiety. If you want to visit a homeopath, your first stop should be the Society of Homeopaths to find someone who is registered and qualified. Good luck!