What is homeopathy?

It is a complementary medicine. It is based on holistic principles. This means it recognises that our spiritual, mental, emotional and physical health, are intimately connected and vital to our well-being as individuals.

Homeopaths understand that the physical symptoms of ill health are signs that the body is trying to heal itself. Often the body needs some help with this process. We all express our ill health individually. Because our states of health are varied and we all lead our lives differently, remedies (homeopathic medicines) are specifically chosen for each individual patient. It is the homeopath's art to determine which remedy will be most appropriate for each patient. Homeopathy is an energy medicine and this remedy will stimulate the body’s own ability to heal itself.

Homeopathic remedies are largely made with minute amounts of a substance from the animal, mineral or plant kingdoms, the majority are therefore natural. They are prepared in specialist pharmacies and are easy to take. They are safe for everyone; pregnant women, infants and children, the elderly and everyone in between. Remedies are not tested on animals and can be taken alongside prescribed medicines. You cannot become addicted to or dependent on homeopathic remedies.

And what can it treat?

Acute conditions like colds, 'flu, coughs, sore throats, tonsillitis, ear infections, sinusitis, childhood ailments, difficult teething, recurrent infections, and low immune system, headaches - to name a few.

Chronic conditions like, asthma, eczema, constipation, problems of the digestive tract, ME, post viral problems, cold sores, migraines, arthritis, rheumatism and many more.

Emotional and mental problems, for example: depression, grief, fears and phobias, low self esteem, sadness, stress and anxiety, irritability, eating disorders, self-harm.

Women's complaints like PMS, menstrual problems, ailments during pregnancy, preparation for labour and childbirth, early infancy and breastfeeding problems, and menopausal symptoms amongst others.

What is a consultation like?

A homeopathic consultation is a respectful and confidential meeting between homeopath and patient. As the homeopath, I will ask each of my patients to be as frank and as honest as possible. As my patient, you will be listened to. You will have the time that you need in a safe, calm atmosphere to discuss your symptoms and express your concerns. There is no physical examination but any diagnosis from your doctor will be very helpful information together with a note of any prescribed medicines you may be taking.

On your first visit, you might be with me for 1_ hours. Although this may sound like a long time it is my experience that time passes quickly and very often patients themselves find the consultation therapeutic. This is where healing can begin.

As a homeopath, I am there to listen to you, analyse your case and then to prescribe a remedy.

Following your consultation, I will do some analysis work on your case and select your individual remedy. This will be posted together with clear instructions on how to take it.

A follow up (subsequent) consultation about 4-6 weeks after the first is important both for you and me. It is at this meeting that we can assess progress and address any problems.

I would suggest you attend a minimum of three appointments and if you have been suffering from a chronic complaint for a very long time, you may well need more. Treatment is individual and there is no knowing how we will all respond.

About me

Ten years ago our middle child, David brought me to homeopathy. He is asthmatic and shortly after his medical diagnosis a prescribed remedy dramatically improved his well-being. This incident sparked my curiosity to learn more.

I graduated in April 2004 from The Northern College of Homeopathic Medicine in Gateshead after five year of studying. I have been involved with and observed some wonderful results with homeopathy and I encourage you to try it rather than continue to suffer. Homeopathy works with us, it does not suppress but encourages the body to push out and overcome symptoms, when we use it we can be healthier, more rounded individuals better able to keep life in balance. So, if you need some guidance through either a physical or emotional problem, I would be delighted to hear from you.

If you would like to make an appointment or discuss things further please contact:-

Medicalternative on 0131 225 5656

Alternatively look at my website www.homeopathyforall.co.uk available mid November 2006.