Homeopathy Compared to Conventional Medicine & Herbs
By Brian Banks, Research and Development Director TRP Company
Background: Homeopathic medicines are prescribed according to the principle that the body has the ability to heal itself. This approach has been utilized for thousands of years by different cultures. It was developed into a formal therapeutic modality, with strict protocols, in the early 1800's. It is a therapeutic modality which has withstood the test of time. Being based on the laws of nature little can be changed.
Homeopathy is based on the observation, in nature, that certain substances reliably cause specific symptoms when ingested in toxic doses, AND – that the same substance, when given in a micro-dilution doses to a person expressing those similar symptoms, triggers the body to react and counteract the underlying condition causing those symptoms.
The difference between homeopathy and modern conventional medicine:
Preface - It is generally accepted that there are three types of treatments available:
- Manipulative treatment directly imposes change on tissue or function usually via drugs or surgery.
- Replacement treatment replaces necessary elements such as tears, hormones or insulin.
- Regulatory treatment prompts the body's immune/self regulating (mechanism of homeostasis) system as with immunizations, allergy desensitization acupuncture and homeopathy.
* Modern medicine traditionally utilizes the first two options while Homeopathy uses the third - attempting to trigger the body's self regulating (immune) system to perform.
For example: lubricant eye drops replace tears – homeopathic drops stimulate tears. Antibiotics kill bacteria – homeopathic medicines trigger stronger immune response. Cataract surgery removes the offending tissue but doesn't address the underlying chronic deficiency – homeopathy stimulates the body to reverse the deficiency.
The difference between herbs and homeopathy (often confused):
1st - The targeted therapeutic mode of action of the two is completely opposite. Herbs provide a natural pharmacologic and/or nutritional effect. Homeopathic medicines attempt to trigger the body's self regulating mechanisms to respond with its own capabilities to heal itself or regain balance.
2nd - The methods of preparing the remedies are very different. Herbalists utilize the actual plant in material doses. Homeopaths utilize micro-dilutions.
3rd – In prescribing the remedies Herbalists utilize a rich history (even 1,000's of years) of experience, pharmacologic data (alkaloid x vasoconstricts, etc.) and or use established Formulas to achieve the desired effect.
Homeopathy uses a strict scientific set of rules to determine which remedy is indicated for which symptom/condition utilizing the "Law of Similars" as the guideline. Its remedies are processed and regulated (in the U.S.) by the FDA according to the strict guidelines of the Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States (HPUS).
Further Reading: Why Homeopathy Makes Sense and Works
