The Use of Homeopathic Remedies.

Homeopathy: How to Take, How Often, Which Potency, When to Stop?

Jul 14, 2008

Many people use homeopathic remedies for first aid or for minor ailments, and can identify which remedy to take. But how exactly should the remedies be used?

Prospective users of homeopathy should decide on the relevant remedy to use, then read this article for details of how to to take it.

How to Take Homeopathic Remedies?

When taking a homeopathic tablet or pillule, it should be handled as little as possible. Preferably it should be tipped on to the palm of the patient’s hand, or directly into his or her mouth. It does not matter if more than one tablet is taken. If tablets fall on the floor they become contaminated and should be thrown away. Ideally tablets should be dissolved under the tongue or sucked; they should not be swallowed whole. It is preferable not to eat or drink or brush one’s teeth for twenty minutes before or after taking a homeopathic remedy. In the case of children this may be difficult, but the parent should try to avoid giving the tablet with food. Tablets can be crushed for giving to children or animals.

How Often to Take Remedies?

The golden rule is to give very frequently for urgent or acute illnesses or conditions, then less frequently as the patient improves. For slower developing illnesses, the remedies should be given less often. For example, in the case of earache or severe stomach-ache, the remedies may need to be given at ten or fifteen minute intervals at first. However, if the patient seems to be slowly developing flu or a cold, three or four hourly doses may be sufficient. If the patient is given six pills but there is no improvement, it is better to try a different remedy than to persevere, as the remedy being tried is probably not the correct one.

Which Potency?

6C tablets are best for less serious complaints and first aid. For more serious ailments, it is best to use 30C remedies. It is not a good idea to use potencies above this until one is very familiar with homeopathic remedies and their use, but in an emergency it is alright to use whichever potency is available. In general, one gives low potencies more frequently, and high potencies at longer intervals.

When to Stop Taking Remedies?

Once there is a marked improvement, remedies should be given less often, and they should be stopped altogether once the patient is better. This is most important. Giving remedies after the patient has recovered may aggravate the symptoms or bring them on again.

If unsure of any of the above, or the patient is not improving, it is important to consult a qualified homeopath or other health professional.

The copyright of the article The Use of Homeopathic Remedies. in Homeopathy is owned by Helen Krasner. Permission to republish The Use of Homeopathic Remedies. in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.