At our clinic, we focus on dealing with the influence of inherited factors with homeopathy and naturopathic medicine. We can modify the way the genes express, through treating at the epigenetic level. Research into epigenetics shows us that genes can be silenced or expressed. This is the deeper level of healing. But we also examine the role played by the patient’s diet and lifestyle in this.

In time, we can work towards reducing the body’s response to allergens with these remedies. We also have treatments to relieve the immediate symptoms. But the patient can also assist this process with diet and lifestyle modification. This can also change the expression of the genetic pattern.

You may find more information on our pages on allergies, how to desensitise allergies naturally and hay fever and sinusitis.

The Hygiene Hypothesis in Allergies

There is also the hygiene hypothesis. The idea is that in western countries in particular, there has been a growing emphasis on sanitation, clean environments, vaccinations and keeping children away from exposure to germs. This means the child’s body doesn’t have the necessary exposure to deal with bacteria, viruses and potential allergens and build immunity. Hence the increase in allergies and autoimmune diseases, so the theory goes, and there is much evidence to support it.

A balance is needed here. In our clinic, we believe we should have a healthy respect for pathogens, but not a paranoia.

As we are part of nature, germs and potential allergens have a role to play in strengthening immunity. We need to look after our health and immunity naturally, so we are strong enough to deal with that and reap the good effects. This is fundamental naturopathic understanding.  Homeopathic treatment and diet are an important part of that.

Overview of Diet for Allergies

In overview, the diet should be nutrient-dense and mostly composed of plants and good fats. While relatively high in protein, wild caught fish and vegetable proteins should be the main source, especially those high in omega 3 fatty acid. The diet should keep simple carbohydrates such as processed grains to a minimum. That includes sugar and sweet foods. These things increase inflammation, which triggers allergies.

Fruits and vegetables contain a variety of phytochemicals and antioxidants that support the immune system and reduce inflammation. So do good fats, that work to dampen inflammation.

Fruits and vegetables are also high in fibre, which is a prebiotic. Prebiotics feed and promote good bacteria in the gut, which also improves immunity. Certain probiotics, or sources of these good bacteria are also good to include in your diet.

We will look more closely at these dietary factors below.

Homeopathic Understanding of Allergies

These things are the dietary keys to help fight off seasonal allergies. Asthma, hay fever and eczema and dermatitis are all atopic diseases, based on an inherited weakness. In homeopathy we call it a constitutional weakness: a fault in the whole system that is reflected on all levels of the person.

However, they are all slightly different. That also means the role of dietary factors may be different in all three. There is also a deeper homeopathic understanding of how these atopic diseases are all related, and how this influences the treatment approach.

Eczema and dermatitis are usually the least obviously allergic. That is, in the sense of being able to tie the issue down to a specific food, which when avoided, results in improvement. It is also the most superficial level of the same underling problem in all allergies.

Hay fever is deeper than that, and often is the first response of the body when the initial eczema is suppressed with steroid creams. Further suppression or drug treatment often leads on to asthma, which is the most life threatening of the three.

This is the homeopathic understanding. It is what homeopaths have seen over the last two hundred and twenty years. We ourselves have also noticed that in our more than thirty years of practice. It does also sometimes mean that the previous symptoms may recur temporarily, though less severely, as part of the body’s curative response to treatment.

This is a good thing, and nothing to worry about. It is easily managed and passes quickly. The patient always feels better in themselves if this happens. Homeopathic treatment is not suppressive. It works towards restoring the balance in the body’s self-regulation mechanisms, not working against the symptoms of eczema, hay fever or asthma.

The Role of Symptoms in Allergies

These symptoms are actually the best attempts the body can make in the circumstances. It is not the problem itself. Restore harmony to the body: heal the gut, the emotional imbalance and over-reaction to stress, the sleep patterns, the immunity, the whole person. Then the symptoms disappear. There is no more need for them.

Homeopathic understanding also tells us that things that may trigger the allergies are not the problem itself. They are just that: triggers. That is why we don’t always suggest the patient removes allergens unless they are severe. When we fix the underlying imbalance they can often tolerate these things.

On the other hand, if they just avoid them, they may become allergic to something else. It is better to fix the real problem, the systemic imbalance, otherwise the body will seek out whatever trigger is there. That inevitably means the weakness is driven deeper and becomes harder and takes longer to treat.

This is a new and foreign concept to some patients. The medical approach believes there is no way to “fix” allergies. They don’t see the bigger connection. The only way they know how to treat is to suppress the symptoms with cortisone, other steroids or antihistamines.

Otherwise they just tell the patient to avoid the allergens if possible. So even when they seek alternative treatment, patients usually come to us with the mindset that the allergies are the culprit themselves. If they don’t already know the triggers, they want to know what food is causing the problem, as if that would be the end of the issue.

Even though there is a genetic component in atopic allergies and we can’t change genes, natural treatment can change the way the genes express. We achieve that by modifying at the epigenetic level. Anything that works in harmony with the life processes can make a positive epigenetic change.

Although naturopathic and homeopathic approaches work deeply at that level, diet and lifestyle is the fundamental aspect.

Inflammation in Allergies & How Poor Diet can Cause it

Diet is the foundation of health. The foods we eat and the lifestyles we pursue have a great influence on how our genes express. Genetics is not destiny. If we change our lifestyles and diet, we can also change the genetic expression positively for the next generation.

The main reason why diet affects atopic allergies is that they are inflammatory diseases. The more serious the allergy, the more the inflammation. Asthma is the most inflammatory of all, and studies have shown the importance of a low-inflammatory diet in asthma.

Much current research is showing that inflammation underlies all chronic disease. The question is, is it the cause or the result. It’s complex, but in many cases inflammation is one of the main causative factors.

Inflammation is a normal response to body injury. It should settle does after it does its job. But in chronic disease it doesn’t settle. It cause a whole host of troubling symptoms.

Cytokines are involved. These are inflammatory markers that are an important part of the immune reaction to infection, inflammation, and injuries. But some of them are promote inflammation. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and chronic inflammation can make all kinds of diseases worse.  Diet contributes to the persistence of these markers.

In this study, researchers investigated populations of Inuit living in Greenland who followed their traditional diet. They compared them with a similar group living in Denmark.

They found that those living in Denmark had significantly higher levels of inflammatory markers and much more asthma. The researchers thought that this was due to the more westernised diet that the Denmark Inuit followed, leading to higher inflammatory markers and more asthma.

This occurs largely through the connection between asthma and obesity and the role of dietary fats. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of asthma and to a lesser extent, other allergic diseases, as this research shows.

Obesity is associated with chronic low grade levels of inflammation. Indeed it may explain the link between obesity and chronic disease, especially in asthma. There is an increased incidence and severity of asthma in those who are overweight.

How to Reduce Allergy Inflammation with Good Dietary Fats

This “chronic low grade systemic inflammation” is strongly affected by diet. Studies have shown that the type of fats included in the diet are crucial to dealing with allergies like hay fever, sinusitis, dermatitis and especially asthma.

In the study quoted above, the Inuit in Greenland were eating more of their traditional high fat diet, one that was rich in Omega 3 oils from seafood. On the other hand, those who had moved to Denmark were consuming more Omega 6 vegetable oils. The omega 6 oils are more prevalent in a typical western diet.

Omega 6 fatty acids come mainly from sources such as sunflower, safflower, peanut and canola. They promote inflammation, which worsens allergies, particularly asthma. They are often also genetically modified, which has also shown to be an issue.

Trans fats are also common in the western diet. Commercial baked goods, snack food, cakes and biscuits, pies and pasties, chips, crisps and margarine are the main source of these. They are pro inflammatory, and research shows they have multiple health risks, including promoting allergies.

Saturated fats can assist asthma by suppressing components of the allergic response. The natural trans fat conjugated linoleic acid, found in grass-fed meat, could be particularly useful. For example, in a mouse study, CLA from milk fat reduced airway inflammation.

Other Dietary Nutrients that Benefit Allergies

There are a wide range of antioxidant compounds in fruits and vegetables that have an anti-inflammatory action that is beneficial in allergies. These are known as phytonutrients. A healthy diet is the best source of these. Many studies on supplements have been inconclusive. They seem to work best with all the co-factors found in a healthy diet.

Studies on higher intake of antioxidant nutrients, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene have shown reduced seasonal allergies in both adults and children. Once again, it appears to be the synergistic effect of a healthy diet that confers the most benefit, not the addition of one “wonder supplement.

Another important nutrient, that does show some benefit in supplement form is Vitamin D, especially for asthma. This hormone-like vitamin reduces allergic inflammation. Studies show that many people with asthma are deficient in this vitamin, especially those who are obese, which also is a problem in asthma.

In summary, the best way to ensure a range of dietary antioxidants that will be beneficial in allergies is to focus on diet. A healthy diet full of brightly coloured fruits and vegetables, organic if possible, is the way to manage allergies.

In addition, ensure an intake of healthy fats. Focus on wild caught fish, and supplement with fish oils. Not too many vegetable fats in ratio to the Omega 3 oils. Consume no trans fats, meaning no baked commercial goods. Have grass fed meats only, where possible. Have a test for your vitamin D levels and supplement where indicated.

Contact us at Cottesloe Naturopathic Clinic for effective treatment that can immediately relieve the acute symptoms and treat the underlying recurring tendency.

The post Diet for Allergies, Hay Fever & Asthma appeared first on Cottnat Homeopath.

Many studies have shown that specific changes to your daily choice of foods can improve your possibility of conceiving. We will outline these factors in the following article, and provide references. As well, we will give you the benefit of more than thirty years experience in natural fertility treatment.

These simple dietary choices work on reducing the impact of conditions like fibroids, endometriosis and polycystic ovaries (PCOS). As well, they can help prevent recurrent miscarriage and stimulate ovulation. They can also normalise your menstrual cycle and support a healthy pregnancy.

These changes will help assist the specific treatments that we give for problems affecting your fertility. You will see this if you follow the links here to other pages related to women’s health problems and menstrual disorders  as well as the separate pages on endometriosis and PCOS. After conception, healthy nutrition increases your chances of retaining the pregnancy past the first vital trimester.

We don’t forget that male fertility is at least fifty percent of the issue. Many lifestyle factors impact on men’s fertility, sperm quality and libido. We will also cover these dietary, nutritional and lifestyle tips for the male partner in this article.

Diet & Nutrition Guidelines for Natural Fertility

Eat Lots of Organic Fruits & Vegetables. Avoid pesticides

Conventionally grown fruits and vegetables contain pesticide residues which have been shown to negatively impact both male and female fertility. Studies have also shown organic vegetables and fruits to have more nutritional value, especially minerals.

Vegetables and fruits are our main dietary source of antioxidants. Antioxidants have many important functions in maintaining fertility, as we will show below. They are also vital for maintaining pregnancy once conception occurs.

Eat Only High Fibre Foods & Whole Grains

The fibre in fruits and vegetables also helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is vital in fertility.

Whole grains are rich in fibre and vitamins, and support the immune system. Fibre also helps the body eliminate excess hormones and keeps the blood sugar balanced. It is especially important in cases of PCOS, which has issues with blood sugar levels.

Avoid processed foods and refined flour and grains. That means no white bread, pasta or white rice. Instead, you should choose whole wheat or sprouted bread, whole wheat pasta, quinoa, and brown rice.

No Sugar or Fruit Juice

To keep the blood sugar balanced, that means no sugar in any foods, and no added sugar . It also means no fruit juice. Natural fruit is all right, because of the fibre content which regulates the release of sugar into the bloodstream. When you eat foods with added sugar, this results in a higher than normal release of insulin. The body responds in this way in an attempt to lower the blood sugar.

The body eventually has trouble responding to the insulin. This situation is known as insulin resistance. The resulting high blood sugar can damage a woman’s eggs and affect the hormones responsible for ovulation.

Studies have found that high insulin levels act to inhibit ovulation. In one study, women whose diets had the highest glycaemic load (a measure of blood sugar) were 92 percent more likely to have ovulatory infertility than those whose diets had the lowest glyacemic load.

No Soy unless Fermented, as in Miso or Tempeh

Unfermented soy foods have contain oestrogen-like compounds that can effect both male and female hormones and fertility. That means avoiding soy milk, soy protein powders, soy chips and protein meat substitutes and cheeses to avoid a negative impact on your hormonal balance. Fermented soy products such as miso and tempeh appear to be OK however. If you have hypothyroidism, avoid soy completely.

This is a controversial issue, and there are studies both for and against soy in fertility and other health issues. This metastudy investigates the pros and cons of soy in all health issues. It recommends caution in cases of infertility and for those with ovulation problems  It can also affect your thyroid hormone levels, and that can also be an issue in fertility.

So on balance we recommend that you best avoid soy in your diet if you are trying to conceive.

Avoid Trans Fats (found in Commercial Baked Goods)

Trans fats have been found in this study to impact fertility by affecting ovulation.  They are primarily in foods such as commercial baked and snack foods, cakes and biscuits, animal products like pies and pasties, chips, crisps and margarine. Like the effect of sugar and simple carbohydrates they increase insulin resistance.

As we have described above, insulin helps move glucose from the bloodstream to the cells. With insulin resistance it becomes harder for the body to move glucose into the cells. The pancreas responds by pumping out even more insulin. These high insulin levels cause a series of metabolic disturbances that affect ovulation.

In this study, Willett and Chavarro found that each 2 percent increase in consumption of trans fats—as opposed to the same increase from carbohydrates—was associated with a 73 percent increased risk for ovulatory infertility.

Eat Good Fats for Fertility

Good fats are important for fertility.  Fish, avocado,olive oil and coconut oil are the best sources of good fats.

Fish is rich in omega 3 fatty acids. These fats are beneficial for overall health. But in addition they also help balance hormone production in a woman’s body.

Omegas 3  promotes fertility, particularly in men. These fats are a rich source of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormone-like lipids that are important for semen production. They improve the maturity and viability of the male’s sperm. Studies have shown that men with poor sperm count or quality tend to have inadequate levels of prostaglandins and this can be improved with supplementation. Overall, the more omega-3 you have in your body, the better your sperm motility.

Omega 3 fatty acids are also important for female fertility. A 2012 study found that life-long consumption of omegas 3 could promote good fertility, even in more mature women. Additionally, the study also showed that even short-term treatment with omega 3 can improve the quality of women’s eggs.

Eat only Grass-fed Meats (Otherwise No Red Meat) for Fertility

A recent 2018 study demonstrates the red meat is correlated with hormone irregularities, particularly leading to endometriosis. This is a very strong association. The study used regular meats from cattle that are fed antibiotics, hormones and genetically modified foods. It is most likely the hormones that cause this, but the other influences are also best avoided.

Grass-fed meats are from cattle that have grazed in grass pasture and eaten fresh grass. This is the animals’ natural diet, and it provides a lot more nutrients.

For example, grass-fed meats are high in omega 3, and they are not fed antibiotics and hormones that affect your hormone balance and immune system. On the other hand, factory-farmed meats are higher in omega 6, which is already too high in our diets. Genetically modified corn is also fed to the cattle to fatten them up. This is another issue, because GMO foods have been linked to infertility as well as many other health problems.

Poultry does not have the same issues with hormones. However, eat only free range chicken. And consume only wild caught fish to again avoid antibiotics and GMO’s.

Harvard Research on Foods for Fertility

An eight-year study of more than 18,000 women by the Harvard Medical School uncovered ten evidence-based suggestions for improving fertility.

1) Avoid trans fats.We have already covered details on this above.

2) Use more unsaturated vegetable oils. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats help improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin and reduce inflammation. These things are good for fertility.

However, there needs to be a balance between omega 3 and omega 6, with more omega 3 than in a typical diet. Add in more vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and cold water fish such as wild caught salmon and sardines. Avoid farmed fish. Cut back on saturated fat from animal sources, but coconut oil is OK.

The best oils to use are olive oil and coconut oils for cooking, and olive oil for salads. Avoid canola oil, which is genetically modified. The best nuts are walnuts, which contain omega 3 as well as 6. All seeds are good, especially pumpkin, which specifically helps male hormonal balance.

3) Reduce animal protein and get more protein from vegetables. Replace more animal protein with nuts, seeds and pulses (legumes) like lentils and beans. Avoid soy however for the reasons mentioned above. You don’t have to eliminate animal protein, within the guidelines already mentioned. But replacing one meal a day with a vegetable protein source is a good suggestion.

4) Choose whole grains over refined white grains and flours. This controls blood sugar and improves insulin response, as we have discussed above, These things are vital for fertility.

5) Use only full fat milk products. Without investigating the reasons, they found a correlation between fertility and consuming full fat milk. Other studies have shown low fat and skim milk promotes abnormal insulin response, so this is probably the issue.

From our point of view, we would emphasise low consumption of milk for hormonal reasons, unless you have access to biodynamic, unpasteurised milk from grass fed cows.

6) Take a multi-vitamin. They found that 400 mcg a day of folic acid was crucial. However, with those with MTHFR sensitivities we recommend natural folate.

7) Obtain plenty of Iron from plants. These will also generally be rich sources of folate.  Whole-grain cereals, leafy greens like spinach, beans, tomatoes pumpkin and beetroot appear to have a positive effect on fertility.

8) Keep hydrated. Fluid balance is important. Drink plenty of water. Moderate coffee and tea and alcohol consumption did not affect conception. We do however recommend no more than two cups of coffee a day after conception. And no alcohol in the luteal phase of the women’s cycle, because of the effect on the fetus once implantation occurs.

9) Keep a healthy weight and BMI. Weighing too much or too little can affect menstrual cycles and ovulation. The best body-mass index (BMI) range for fertility is between 20 and 24.

10) Get some daily exercise. But don’t overdo it. Enough to stay in the healthy weight zone appears to be important. Too much or too little can interfere with ovulation.

Foods to Boost Male Fertility

All of the above guidelines, while more specific for aiding female fertility, menstrual regularity and ovulation, also apply to men.

There are however some foods that have a specific positive effect on male fertility.

Foods Rich in Zinc

Zinc rich foods can improve testosterone levels. They have also been shown to improve sperm count and sperm motility.

Good sources of zinc are pumpkin seeds and whole grains. Oysters are good too, but they need to be sourced from a pristine, unpolluted waterway.

Foods Containing Vitamin C

Vitamin C is also vital for sperm production and viability. Don’t think supplements, as they don’t have all the co-factors necessary for vitamin C to work. It is always best to eat natural whole foods for fertility.

The best sources of vitamin C are fresh vegetables and fruits, especially leafy greens like spinach and broccoli. These are also rich in other antioxidants that help prevent degradation of sperm. Other sources are of course citrus and berries. Organic is best, to avoid pesticides, as outlined above.

Dark, Leafy Greens

This one is a no-brainer. We have already mentioned it for vitamin C. It is also a rch source of folate that is good for both male and female fertility. It helps produce strong, healthy sperm. Spinach, kale, broccoli and silver beet are good sources of folate.

Dark Chocolate or Cacao

The cacao bean, the source of chocolate, is a rich source of the amino acid arginine. This helps the production of sperm.

If you have it in the form of chocolate, make sure it’s dark chocolate with a low sugar content, at least 80% cacao powder.Otherwise you may get it in the raw cacao powder and add it to smoothies.

Fish and Seafood

We have already covered this in detail above. The omega 3 fatty acids that fish contain are important in the production and viability of sperm.

It is vital to get wild caught fish, for reasons already outlined. They should be oily fish. Such as salmon, sardines and mackerel.

Pomegranates

Pomegranate has been shown to improve sperm quality. It also helps in prostate health and helps with erectile dysfunction, which of course can be a problem preventing conception.

Brazil Nuts

The antioxidants in Brazil nuts protect the semen from free radical damage and.  They are also the richest natural source of selenium. The mineral selenium is important for male fertility men because it boosts testosterone land improves sperm production and mobility.

The post Improve Fertility with Diet & Nutrition appeared first on Cottnat Homeopath.

At Cottesloe Naturopathic Clinic we are already seeing many cases of allergic rhinitis, or hay fever as it is better known. Our focus is to provide immediate relief and fix the problem for good if possible.

Hay fever and spring plant reactions are very easy to  treat with homeopathy, supported by naturopathic advice. The response to treatment is usually swift, and given a few months of treatment the problem is often solved. There are no side effects, unlike drug treatment for this problem. On the contrary, the patient often feels better in themselves, with more energy and mental clarity.

Firstly, we can give homeopathic remedies for the acute situation, to instantly relieve the distress. After that, we aim to boost the immune system. But it’s more than that. Our goal is to restore the restore the body to health at the deepest levels. To do this, we supply “constitutional treatment”. This involves understanding and treating the person at a deep level.

Finally, and to finish off the case, we may give a remedy for natural allergy desensitisation. This is not necessary in all cases.

Although triggered by environment and lifestyle factors, a genetic or constitutional weakness underlies hay fever and other allergies. A constitutional remedy modifies that genetic expression, sometimes with the help of remedies that are “anti-miasmatic.” We will explain these terms below. Through these processes, we desensitise allergies in a general way.

As well, we have developed a protocol of allergy desensitisation for specific allergies. In this blog post we will cover how we do this individually, and provide some tips for home use.

We say “desensitise”, because that is the general terminology that is understood by the layman. They just want to be rid of the problem. But in fact that is a misnomer.

The specific desensitisation is just the final prong in a three tiered attack. In our approach, we aim to remove the reason for any allergy in the first place. So it is more than desensitising alone. Otherwise some other allergy will simply take its place.

For further insight on our approach, you may also visit our other pages on hay fever and sinus and asthma and allergies and spring hay fever in Perth.

Allergy Symptoms & Triggers

Typical symptoms include sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes. Often there is itching of the face, nose and eyes, and occasionally itching of the ears, throat and palate. Asthmatic symptoms may also complicate the picture: difficulty breathing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Grass pollen including ryegrass are the most typical offenders in spring. Daisies, jasmine, bottlebrush and ragweed are other problem plants. As well as upper respiratory symptoms, there may be skin reactions with hives, rashes, blisters and contact dermatitis. Many natives cause problems here, including grevillea.

Of course, there are food allergies to consider. This is a more complex issue. That especially applies to anaphylactic reactions. Much of what we say will apply to food allergy and sensitivity, but respiratory allergies are quicker and easier to deal with. So will focus on them more specifically in this article. You may visit our allergy page for more information on food allergies.

Acute Remedies & Treatment for Hay Fever & Dermatitis

It takes time to desensitise allergies. Thankfully, there are homeopathic remedies that will eliminate the symptoms instantly, at least as well as conventional drugs. The difference is though, there are absolutely no side effects! In most cases, one dose a day is sufficient. At the most, two or three doses a day will completely keep symptoms at bay on the days of highest pollen count.

We choose the homeopathic remedy needed in each case based on the exact symptom picture. Often there is a combination of symptoms, so we need to look at the balance. But in general, remedies like Sabadilla and Allium cepa cover excessive sneezing. Arundo, Wyethia, Ambrosia and Phleum relieve itching of face, ears, eyes, nose and throat. In watery eyes, Euphrasia and Allium cepa can help. Where there is difficulty breathing and asthmatic symptoms, there are indications for remedies like Phleum, Naphthalinum and Kali carbonicum.

In cases with sinus complications, with symptoms of pressure, swelling and obstruction of the nose and thick mucus we need different remedies. Here there are indications for remedies like Kali bichromicum, Sanguinaria, Silica and Sticta pulmonaria.

Where contact dermatitis, particularly with plants is an issue, we look at remedies like Rhus toxicodendron, Anagalis, Apis, Bovista and Anacardium. We choose which remedy is needed based on the specific symptom picture that each suits, and select the potency according to the severity of symptoms.

Although immediate and successful in action, these acute remedies are not lasting in effect or curative by themselves. However, they are the first stage in a combination that works towards the desensitisation of specific allergies.

Constitutional Homeopathy to Boost Immunity in Allergies

Constitutional treatment is the first step in helping fix allergies for good. To be completely successful, we need to combine this with the acute treatment, a healthy lifestyle and diet. The final icing on the cake is the specific allergy desensitising, as described further down. But first we will describe what constitutional homeopathy is.

In taking a homeopathic case, we go through everything about a person. We ask questions related to every system of the body, from head to toe. Small, subtle things are taken into account. We note things like energy levels and energy patterns. Also, symptoms related to personality, temperaments, life events and response to stress, sleep patterns and dreams are recorded.

We choose a constitutional remedy based on that information. The understanding is that the life force of the body reveals the underlying imbalance in its subtle pattern of symptoms. The choice is a remedy that resonates with that imbalance on all levels. This then provides the necessary information to the life force to begin to heal that imbalance.

Please visit our pages Homeopathy Explained and Patient Information for a fuller outline of this process.

So far, in looking at how to desensitise allergies we have looked at the acute level and the chronic constitutional level. Now we will look at modifying the inherited weakness underlying the allergic tendency.

Genetic Factors in Allergies

Genetic factors play a role in the development of the so-called called atopic diseases. These have a shared underlying problem with the immune system. The main feature is the development of a particular immune response (IgE) to things that are normally harmless. Childhood atopic disease includes atopic dermatitis or eczema, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and food allergy.

To fully desensitise these allergies we must modify this inherited weakness. It was once thought that genes were destiny. Now it is apparent that, although genes cannot be changed, we can change the way the genes express. Epigenetics, essentially, affects how genes are read by cells, and subsequently how they produce proteins.

These modifications can pass through up to fourteen generations. So the lifestyle and diet, and the diseases experienced by our forebears will modify their epigenetics, turning genes on or off. We then inherit these influences, which we may liken to the operating software to the genetic hardware.

The constitutional treatment will have a positive effect on this epigenetic expression. So will our lifestyle and diet, which we will help you with at our clinic. But homeopathy also has specific treatments, known as anti-miasmatic remedies, that work directly on modifying genetic expression, as well as the influence from diseases and drug treatment in our own past history.

As well as the classical miasms, we believe that any strong disease, emotional stress or toxic influence that the body never fully recovers from will produce a miasmatic taint. This affects the epigenetic expression and triggers and reinforces allergies.

Medorrhinum, Tuberculinum and Psorinum are specific anti-miasmatic remedies that may be indicated in hay fever and allergies. These are “nosodes” or remedies produced from the energetic print of diseases. Homeopaths find that the imprint of these disease can pass through the generations.

But diseases in the patient’s own past history may also form a block to treatment, that can be removed by giving the homeopathic nosode of that specific disease. If the person has never fully recovered from something like glandular fever, then the homeopathic remedy or nosode from that can form part of their treatment plan.

Other useful nosodes that can modify the epigenetic effect in allergies include the Bowel Nosodes of Drs Bach and Paterson. These remedies have a specific influence on the gut and improve the bowel flora, which is a vital part of immune function.

Specific Natural Allergy Desensitisation Protocol

We have developed a special program of homeopathic allergy desensitising over 30 years. The idea is similar to the orthodox desensitisation using injections or sublingual drops.

There are several main differences however.

Firstly, our remedies are homeopathic. They sublingual, taken under the tongue daily by the patient. This means they contain only information and no traces of the original substance. Unlike the orthodox procedure, they have no side effects. Patients also tell us they are far more successful than conventional desensitising.

They also work much more quickly. We get virtually instant results anyway through our holistic approach. That is because we give acute remedies, constitutional treatment, ant-miasmatic remedies, and dietary and lifestyle advice. That is on top of the desensitising procedure.

So our approach is holistic. It works not just in reducing the sensitivity to that specific allergen, but addresses the reason for the allergy in the first place.

The conventional approach to desensitise allergies can take a year or two, and even then may not be successful. Moreover, it is suppressive. It weakens the immune system and makes other allergies more likely.

We can also produce an allergy to a specific sample of allergen. If the patient is sensitive to a pet – cat,dog, horse, bird or whatever – the patient can bring with them a small sample of the animal’s hair, fur or feather. We can make up a desensitising remedy in a few minutes. The same applies to a plant or pollen, if identified.

We give these desensitising remedies in ascending or descending homeopathic potency, depending on response. The potencies are adjusted at monthly visits over several months. This is in conjunction with the acute and the constitutional and anti-miasmatic treatment.

In most cases it only takes a few months of treatment to produce lasting results.

For more information or to book a consultation, please contact us.

The post How to Desensitise Allergies & Hay Fever Naturally appeared first on Cottnat Homeopath.

The short answer is yes. Homeopathy does work. It works well and has spread and survived over more than two hundred and twenty-two years. It has become the most widespread and accepted form of alternative medicine in the world today.

So why is it not more acknowledged and integrated?  We see it as complementary to the orthodox medical approach, it cannot completely replace it. Why do the “authorities” do so much to discredit it? This includes dishonest and unscientific assessment of research data. We have certainly witnessed that recently here in Australia.

It does represent a challenge to accepted medical paradigms and pharmaceutical profits. With an antithetical view of health and disease to that of the established order, this is little wonder. The scorn and laughter of the past has now become a vigorous campaign against homeopathy in the western world..

In this blog post we will show you the homeopathy research that proves it to anyone with an open mind.  At our Perth naturopathic  clinic, we know it works. We see that proof in action every day. That’s the bottom line for us.  We have been prescribing homeopathic remedies for more than thirty years and wouldn’t have a practice or business if it didn’t. Of course, not every case gets better. But if not, we know why. In those cases, we see the case isn’t clear yet – and it is obvious we have not found the right remedy.

In cases that don’t get better, we retake the case and look more closely. Once more clear, the results always follow. Homeopathy has very clear guiding principles and philosophy. It is always a case of understanding the patient better on all three levels: mental, emotional and physical. We must treat the patient who has the disease, not the disease itself. Knowing the name of the problem is little help.

So it is not a routine thing. We must give the remedy that suits that patient’s spectrum of symptoms. In that respect, our job is much more difficult than a doctor’s, and requires more skill and understanding of the patient. That may take more time than a doctor gives, but it’s worth it!

For more on the principles of homeopathy see our page Homeopathy Explained. For a typical day in practice, and homeopathic principles in action, see our blog post A Day in the Life of a Perth Homeopath and Naturopath by Michael Blanch.

Homeopathy Vs. the Skeptiks

Of course none of this convinces the skeptiks. By convention, we will use the American spelling rather than the English/Australian one of “sceptic”. That is because “skeptic” has become the accepted description of those who refuse to entertain even the idea that homeopathy might work.

A true sceptic (with a “c”) is one who wants to see the evidence, but retains an open mind. The skeptics (with a “k”), on the other hand have made up their mind that homeopathy can’t possibly work. Therefore, of course, it doesn’t.

With that mindset they can conveniently ignore, or search for flaws in the methodology of the research, however tenuous, to discredit any positive results. They are certainly not sceptics. Sceptics by definition have an open mind, and come to any new situation without an agenda.

Cognitive dissonance is one explanation of that behaviour. We will let that descriptive image on the left speak for itself. Of course, two can play that game, and they can and do accuse us of the same thing. However, those of us in practice have a vested interest in the truth. We want to use what works.

On the other hand, skeptiks appear to defend a mainstream “scientific” view at all costs. They are rarely physicians themselves, or even scientists. They show little compassion for sick individuals and are simply out to ridicule and rubbish, and support a narrow materialistic agenda.

Homeopathy & Science

Homeopathy is in no way anti-science. Hahnemann the inventor of homeopathy was a very rational man who proceeded by observation and experimentation. He sought to test all homeopathic remedies by a process called “proving” on healthy individuals, and recorded all his results meticulously. We are yet to uncover how homeopathy works, but are confident that it is only a matter of time.

Science is a work in progress. It changes with time. However, philosophies and institutions build an historical edifice around an accepted view that preserves the status quo. That view has financial, political and institutional support. A rigid philosophical framework supports the accepted research framework. The vested interests that control that research, especially that of the pharmaceutical industry, are profit driven rather than humanitarian.

It takes a major paradigm shift to break that edifice and allow and test new viewpoints. In the meantime, science is almost religious in its applications and in support of its vested interests. It has its churches and its priesthood. Anyone who questions it becomes a heretic – and dangerous as well, in the mainstream viewpoint, especially to skeptiks.

Homeopathy & Scientific Research Methods. The Randomised Controlled Trial

Of course, clinical trials and scientific methods should validate any therapy that works. Our experience in practice – and any individual result – is simply anecdotal. We understand that. We do say, however, that enough anecdotal evidence should prove a compelling trend.

Nonetheless, impartial testing in trials should be able to validate those results in an unequivocal way. But to be truly valid the research method should be suited to the methodology of the therapy.

The Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) is the “gold standard” for clinical research in medicine. In an RCT, a cohort of people with the same condition get the same drug, while some in the trial receive placebo. Then they analyse the results to see if there is a significant improvement of those receiving the active drug over those receiving placebo.

This is ideal for testing drugs. That is because the whole philosophy of pharmaceutical drugs is to treat the symptoms of the named disease. From our viewpoint they suppress symptoms, they don’t attempt to restore health to the patient. Drugs are not individualised to minute differences in a patient’s symptom picture.

Homeopathy & Drugs: the Philosophical Difference

In homeopathy however, the approach and philosophy is very different. In fact, it is antithetical. To the  homeopath, the important thing is the individual differences in a patient’s symptom picture. It is precisely those things that deviate from the typical clinical diagnosis that determine the remedy choice. The homeopath would typically give ten patients with the same disease ten different medicines. That is the only way we would expect the remedy to work.

Our blog post on the differences between homeopathy and allopathy (modern medicine) explains more.

Randomised controlled trials typically cost millions of dollars. Drug companies fund them, and of course they expect a return on their investment. For one thing, they are not going to fund research into homeopathy, a rival to their philosophy and profits.

For another thing, to properly validate homeopathy through RCT’s, the participants would all have to receive an individual prescription from a homeopath. Such a procedure would test homeopathy itself in a condition, not a specific homeopathic medicine. RCT’s are difficult anyway, and this would introduce more complexity. You see, the design of RCT’s is to test drugs, not homeopathy.

Even so, many RCT’s have validated homeopathy at least as well as drugs. We outline some studies below. Many have treated homeopathy in the same way as drugs, giving the same remedy to all. Some have been with individual prescriptions.

Observational Studies and Homeopathy

Observational studies are another way of assessing treatments. They are usually regarded as inferior to randomised controlled trials. Undertaken where it is impractical or unethical to have a control group, they are also known as “real world” studies. This is because they can assess the effect of treatment or lifestyles in a realistic clinical or real life setting, which corresponds to the way medicine is actually practised. They are not “blinded” and without placebo.

Basically, they follow a “cohort” of individuals over a period of time and assess the effects of treatments, procedures and lifestyles, or compare rival treatments. They may compare, for instance, those treated with homeopathy with those treated by conventional medicine.

Observational studies are obviously better suited to testing homeopathy. They allow a practitioner to make individual prescriptions, as is the case in a homeopathic practice always. So they are better designed to test the methodology and practice of homeopathy. It is also true that there is a growing acceptance of observational studies. In some cases they are seen to rival or exceed the “gold standard” of RCT’s, even in regular medicine.

Now let us look in detail at some of the homeopathic research. First, we will examine the meta-analyses or overall view of the evidence.

Homeopathic Research: the Meta-analysis

By 2014, peer-reviewed journals had published 189 randomised controlled comparing homeopathy with placebo or medical treatment . Of these, 74 were able to draw firm conclusions. 63 showed positive results for homeopathy and 11 were negative.

Five major meta-analyses have also analysed the balance of evidence from RCTs of homeopathic treatment. Four revealed positive effects (Kleijnen, J, et al; Linde, K, et al; Linde, K, et al; Cucherat, M, et al). One (Shang, A et al) showed negative results.

When you consider a wide range of research results on one topic, it’s normal to get differing conclusions. If this data were from trials measuring the efficacy of orthodox drugs, ratios of 63:11 and 4:1 in favourable balance of  any sort of treatment would be considered fairly positive.

Now let us look at some of the individual trials and studies.

1) Homeopathy Research in Ear infections

In this 2012 randomised controlled trial with 80 participants, individualised homeopathy was found as effective as conventional treatment in acute otitis media Symptomatic improvement was quicker in the group receiving homeopathy, and they required far less antibiotics as support.

In this study of homeopathy in ear infections, pain control was achieved in 39% of the patients after 6 hours, and another 33% after 12 hours. This resolution rate is 2.4 times faster than in placebo controls. The study group had no complications, and compared to conventional treatment the approach was 14% cheaper.

In 1996 research Friese and colleagues compared a group of students treated for ear infections by homeopathy against a group treated by antibiotics and other conventional therapies. Those receiving homeopathy were completely free of pain more quickly. They were better in two days, while those treated by conventional medicine took three days.

Here is our page on treatment of ear infections.

2) Homeopathy Research in Fibromyalgia

Iris Bell, MD, PhD and others from the University of Arizona School Of Medicine carried out four trials. The results were published in a regular medical journal. A synopsis appeared in Rheumatology, 43: 577-82, 2004a, the journal of the British Society for Rheumatology.

This trial reported that most patients treated by homeopathy experienced almost twice the improvement of those on placebo. Researchers measured the EEG readings. Those treated by homeopathic group showed a significant improvement in alpha brain wave patterns, revealing decreased anxiety. Those receiving placebo experienced an increase in beta waves, showing increased anxiety.

Our page on the treatment of fibromyalgia.

3) Homeopathy Research in Asthma

In this double-blind, randomised controlled trial, 63 asthma sufferers were treated for 4 months with either specific homeopathic medicines or placebo. Assessed using peak flow rates, 97% of those taking homeopathic remedies and only 12% or those taking placebo had an improvement. Boletin Mexicano, 1998, 31, 2, 54-61

Our page on the treatment of asthma.

4) Homeopathy Research in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

In this 2004 RCT of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome patients, more people in the homeopathic medicine group showed clinical improvement on all primary outcomes.

Our page on chronic fatigue syndrome.

5) Homeopathy Research in Depression

In this recent 2015 double-blind RCT, individualised homeopathy was found as effective as fluoxetine (Prozac) in managing symptoms of depression in menopausal women. Homeopathy also helped their menopausal symptoms.

Our page on the treatment of depression.

6) Homeopathy Research in Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis)

This 2009 study examined individual homeopathic treatment in patients with hay fever.  Results showed that the average patient-assessed level of symptom severity had fallen significantly. 4% of patients were cured, 44% were much better, 25% were better, 4% slightly better.

Here is our web page on treatment of hay fever, rhinitis and sinusitis.

7) Homeopathy Research in Menopausal Hot Flushes

In this 2008 study, researchers set out to analyse the effect of constitutionally prescribed homeopathy on menopausal hot flushes. 99 different homeopaths across 8 countries treated 438 women suffering these symptoms. On analysis, 90% of the women reported a complete cessation or significant reduction in their symptoms. Of these, the majority improved within 15 days of commencing treatment.

Here is our page on treatment of menopause symptoms.

8) Homeopathy Research in Autism Spectrum Disorder

In this 2010 study, 25 children who had been diagnosed with ASD were enrolled. They were given individualised homeopathy and were monitored for 18 months. They found significant positive and curative response with homeopathic medicines in subjects with ASD.  This showed how homeopathic medicines can treat abnormal behavioural problems in children presenting with ASD

Here is our page on the treatment of autism spectrum disorder.

9) Homeopathy Research in Endometriosis

In this controlled trial  researchers studied 50 women aged 18-45 years old with diagnoses of deeply infiltrating endometriosis based on magnetic resonance imaging. Results showed that potentised oestrogen (12C, 18C and 24C) twice daily for 24 weeks was significantly more effective than placebo for reducing endometriosis-associated pelvic pain.

Here is our page on endometriosis.

10) Homeopathy Research in Uterine Fibroids

This multi-centric randomised trial was to evaluate any differences between centesimal and fifty-millesimal potencies in the treatment of uterine fibroids. Both were found to be equally effective.  There was a statistically significant difference before and after homeopathic treatment in both groups.

Here is our page on women’s health, including fibroids, and menstrual problems.

This is just a short summary of some of the positive research and clinical trials and study on homeopathy. We will be adding more in the weeks ahead…

The post Homeopathy Research, Clinical Trials & Studies – Does Homeopathy Work? appeared first on Cottnat Homeopath.

Homeopathy is a two hundred and twenty year old system of medicine.  A German doctor Samuel Hahnemann discovered its principles in 1796, although it is based on observations going back to Hippocrates. Our page Homeopathy Explained has a full description of the history and philosophy. It is now one of the most widespread and recognised forms of alternative medicine in the world today.

While it has stood the test of time, it is currently the subject of vigorous campaigns  to discredit it in the western world. In places like India, on the other hand, it is largely recognised and integrated into the medical system. It cannot completely replace orthodox medicine. Both have their place. We see it as complementary, and that is the message we wish to convey.

In some places it is assumed to be a synonym for alternative medicine. In Australia, however, naturopathy has gained that title. This is a true umbrella term. But homeopathy is a very specific form of natural medicine, with its own principles and philosophy, prescribing principles and methods of preparation. It is the main therapy used at our Perth naturopathic clinic.

While superficially it is a challenge to accepted medical science, it has a very logical, consistent philosophy and methodology. It is no more challenging than quantum physics is to Newtonian physics. Both appear to contradict each other, but both are true in their own sphere.

Homeopathy: A Radical Approach – Then and Now

Hahnemann wanted a new principle of medicine, because he was dissatisfied with the medicine of his day. He was searching for a universal law of healing. Orthodox treatment was opportunistic, using whatever seemed to work on symptoms, without any underlying principle or philosophy of health. That is still the case today.

The remedies were also mostly highly toxic, and given in large doses to cause chemical changes in the body . Then, as now, medicines had their own side effects. Most were more more dangerous to the health of the patient than the disease they were treating, which is what Hahnemann recognised.

Hahnemann called the orthodox system of medicine “allopathy”. That is because mostly it treated by contrary principles. Homeopathy, on the other hand treated through the Law of Similars. We will discuss these principles and other points of difference below.

The Law of Similars and the Law of Contraries

In Hahnemann’s day, as today, conventional medicine largely used medicines that would oppose the symptoms of disease. For example, if the patient had diarrhoea,  they would give something that would bind them up. In other words, they gave something that in a healthy person would cause constipation. In any discharge, they would prescribe a drug that would oppose that action in the body, and so on.

This is all regardless of what the body is trying to do in its own wisdom. The homeopathic idea is that symptoms are a guide to what is going on in the body. It is not the problem itself.   You may think that in modern times orthodox medicine has become more sophisticated. But while treatment may be more effective, it is only effective at suppressing symptoms. The underlying condition continues, and health usually worsens. If there is inflammation, they give anti-inflammatories – without considering that inflammation in the body is there for a good reason and is a healthy response in itself.

You may think that the modern use of antibiotics is different. Don’t they treat the cause? Only in a limited sense. Not everyone exposed to the same infection gets the disease. That doesn’t take susceptibility (discussed below) into account. Also, they don’t aid the body’s learning processes; on the contrary, they cause a whole host of collateral damage on the immune system itself, most of which is in the gut. Granted, they can save lives, and that is how they should be used.

The Law of Similars is the principle underlying homeopathy. This states thata substance that can cause a pattern of symptoms in a healthy body in a large dose, when given in a tiny dose to a sick individual, can cure a similar pattern. We will explain further why this is so.

The Minimum Potentised Dose and the Large Chemical Dose

For the Law of Similars to work, the dose of the homeopathic remedy needs to be minimal – in fact infinitesimal. Hahnemann experimented with smaller and smaller doses. He found that he could give increasingly smaller doses to the sick patient, provided that there was a close similarity between the patient’s symptoms and those of the remedy.

In fact, he continued diluting and “succussing” the remedy (striking the bottle – as described in Homeopathy Explained) past the stage of any molecular substance remaining. There is now some evidence that water forms clusters that retain and mimic the effects of the original substance. Obviously without the chemical substance any toxic effect has gone.

In a way, it is respecting the idea that the symptoms of the disease itself are a healthy process. They need to be aided, not suppressed. In truth, if there is diarrhoea or a nasal discharge, for instance, the body is trying to shed toxins, bacteria or viral particles.

The homeopathic remedy mimics this process on an energetic level. It shows the body how to respond more fully at at at a deep level of the immune response. In a superficial way, it is similar to the idea of vaccinations, but without the toxic, large dose of substance.

Given in tiny doses, the medicine has to have the similar pattern to have an effect. It can’t have a chemical effect; there isn’t enough there to do that. It has to match the pattern, thereby teaching the body how to respond. We don’t yet fully understand how this happens. We see it work in practice, without toxic effect, so we describe the effect as “energetic” or “informational”.

On the other hand, prescribers give medical drugs in a large enough dose to have a chemical action. Symptoms are only important as an aid to diagnose a disease category, which then determines the drug. These drugs must be  strong enough chemicals to over ride the symptoms produced, which is the desired result. That means that side effects are inevitable at some level, even if they are not always immediately obvious.

The Role of Symptoms in Homeopathy and Orthodox Medicine

Allopathy or conventional medicine only shows interest in symptoms to diagnose a disease category. On an individual level a doctor may mean well and be a caring empathetic individual. But that is largely beside his or her role as a physician for the purposes of diagnosis and treatment.

Their job is to find out what type of disease the patient has, and prescribe accordingly. Pathology tests help to assist that process. However, as everyone knows, in the majority of cases, doctors readily prescribe drugs before receiving test results.

To the homeopath, the symptoms are even more important. That is because, to choose the right remedy, he or she has to know everything about the patient and the symptoms on all levels: mental, emotional and physical. So to the homeopath empathy is important to allow the patient to trust and open up. In fact, the symptoms that are unique to that patient are more important than those that are typical in the disease diagnosis. The symptoms of the whole person, particularly the ones that are individual, are the key to the underlying disturbance.

So the homeopath also needs to diagnose the disease, in order to largely discount the “common symptoms” in the choice of remedy. These “characteristic symptoms” tell us more about the patient and their unique susceptibility, than the common ones typical to the disease. These are the ones that we must match with the picture of the remedy to mobilise the healing forces in the body. It is also important to understand the disease to have a prognosis or likely outcome if things continue. We may well send the patient to a doctor for diagnosis, if they have not already been.

Emotional and mental symptoms are the most important symptoms to the homeopath, even in a physical disease diagnosis. That is especially so in chronic disease. Modern medicine also understands the importance of stress and emotional factors. “Psychoneuroimmunology” has become a thing. But the doctor has few tools to deal with that, and the drugs they use do not take the whole patient into account. In homeopathy we have remedies for reactions to grief, guilt and numerous other emotional realities. These remedies help resolve the patterns and blocks that trigger and maintain disease states.

Drug Pictures and Provings in Allopathy and Homeopathy

We have already stated that all homeopathic remedies act in the same way. That is through the homeopathic principle of similia. What they can cause in material doses they can cure in homeopathic or non material doses, via a principle of resonance with the person on all levels: mental, emotional and physical.

If there is no resonance, there is no result. As the remedy is information only, the “wrong” information has no effect. That is, unless taken over a period of time in a “proving” situation, as we describe below. It is not a chemical substance that imposes its own influence on the body, producing side effects in the process.

So how do we know what symptoms the remedy covers? That occurs through the primary method known as “proving”. A group of relatively healthy individuals get together in a group and take a remedy over a period of time, usually weeks or months, and record and then compare the symptoms they experience. These are mostly more subtle symptoms, such as energy levels, sleep patterns and mental and emotional reactions.

Provings produce some physical symptoms. But they do not last or cause any harm. They disappear when they stop the remedy. For the symptoms of deeper physical pathology, homeopaths investigate the reports of toxic effects of the substance in large, non-homeopathic form. That is, from accidental poisoning. Homeopathy has never experimented on animals – only on healthy willing human volunteers.

On the other hand, drug companies test medical drugs, largely in “gold standard” randomised controlled trials (RCT’s). Basically, they give the same drug to everyone with the same disease and they test this against placebo. This idea is totally the opposite to homeopathy, where every patient gets a different medicine, depending on their exact pattern of symptoms.

That is why validation by RCT is not a good test of homeopathy. Medical scientists largely insist on that anyway. That is because they don’t believe or understand the homeopathic approach. And despite these facts and that no drug company is willing to spend millions on testing their competition, there is still much information that homeopathy is at least as good as drugs measured by that principle.

“Observational studies”, where the real world application of homeopathy is studied in clinics generally are more suited to homeopathy. There are many studies that show very positive results.

Here is a summary, including RCT’s of the positive scientific evidence for homeopathy in many conditions.

The Role of Susceptibility in Homeopathy and Allopathy

Homeopathy recognises that disease and disharmony occur in an individual for a number of reasons.

Firstly, the individual comes into the world with inherited weaknesses. Modern science recognises these as genetic in nature. It was once thought they were fixed and unchangeable. We now know that genes can be turned on and off through a process of epigenetics. This occurs through our lifestyle choices, diet and emotional experiences and stress. It is now understood that the experiences of our antecedents affect our gene expression, going back at least 14 generations. That includes emotional trauma. 

Those things – lifestyle choices, diet emotional experiences and stress – are the second thing that influences our health. Homeopaths have always said that. We also believe that any treatment, including drug treatment, will weaken the organism and have a negative impact on health. Anything which does not strengthen the body’s innate healing mechanisms eventually contributes to chronic disease.

Homeopathy has always acknowledged the impact of heredity. Modern medicine recognises that but has no way of treating it. Hahnemann himself developed the concept of “miasms” or patterns of ill-health. Subsequent homeopaths saw these influences being passed through the generations, and developed treatments to address that level.

All these things influence the susceptibility of the patient. Disease does not happen by accident. The whole of the orthodox medical system, including the concept of vaccinations is in denial of this principle. Drug treatment – allopathy – ignores it. Medical science does not see the relevance of it. It is too busy treating the body as a machine and dividing it up into compartments and systems. They try to manage and suppress the symptoms rather than seeing them as part of a much bigger picture.

Homeopathy on the other hand acknowledges heredity and takes it into account in treatment. It takes a careful timeline, acknowledging life experiences, trauma, diet and dietary preferences and drug treatments and surgeries, as well as any acute and chronic diseases. These things are all important in the specific choice of remedy.

The chosen remedy and subsequent treatment then strengthens the healing mechanism of the patient on all levels, mental, emotional and physical. The Vital Force is the name that homeopathy gives to that healing mechanism. It connects all levels of our being.

What is Health?

Health is no more nor less than the relative absence of symptoms on all three levels of being: mental, emotional and physical. In advising on the current lifestyle blocks – obstructions to cure as Hahnemann described them – the homeopath assists the patient to heal themselves. In reflecting back to them their imbalance on all levels and providing the remedy that matches their life experiences and trauma patterns, we believe that true healing is catalysed at a dynamic level. Homeopaths see that every day in practice.

Modern medicine is wonderful at saving lives. It is necessary for emergencies and surgery. Because homeopathy works with the healing force of the patient, at times that force may be too weakened to be restored. Homeopathy can also palliate, or help manage symptoms, but in some chronic cases drug treatment may be the best option.

It is important that both homeopathy and orthodox medicine work together in the best interests of the patient.

The post What is the Difference Between Homeopathy and Allopathy? (Modern Medicine) appeared first on Cottnat Homeopath.

My house in Stoneville in the Perth Hills is cold. I get up and feed the insistent beast and put more wood in the potbelly heater, which still has coals from last night. It’s a grey day outside, a typical Perth winter.

I get out the yoga mat. Twenty minutes of yoga is followed by twenty minutes of meditation. Then I head out for a twenty minute run before some cable resistance exercises. Down in the back vegetable garden I do a quick weed and pick some greens for a healthy breakfast. And there’s just a little time for some work in the front garden before a shower.

Dressed and ready for work, I get in the car and head down the Hills towards Perth city and on to Cottesloe, where my practice is located. The airport is at halfway point. Here I also pass Owen Homeopathics, which is a daily reminder of my mission as a homeopath and naturopath.

I have been in Cottesloe in Napoleon Close Arcade since 1991. Cottesloe is a beach-side suburb, one of Perth’s most affluent. The Arcade is a nice little mall in Napoleon Street, the main shopping street. I am at the back of the arcade on Denardi Lane. This is good because, unlike other shopfronts I have two windows that provide natural light to my waiting and consultation rooms.

Once inside my rooms in Cottesloe Naturopathic Clinic I check my diary and get out my files for the day. I have seven return clients and three new patients – an average day. I set aside half an hour for returns and an hour for new patients. This is the most I can comfortably see in a day without too much stress. And because of my travelling time from the Perth Hills, and to avoid peak hour, I start at 10 am. So that’s a full day.

10 am. Case #1 Allergic Rhinitis

The first patient arrives for her second return visit. I had seen her once before some years ago for a back problem, which resolved with treatment. She is now seeing me for allergic rhinitis ( hay fever type symptoms) to her new cat. (There appears to be a cat theme in this blog post.)

The symptoms are sneezing, itchy eyes and nose and asthma symptoms. She was taking both antihistamines and a Ventolin bronchodilator for her asthma. I have given  her acute treatment together with constitutional and desensitising treatment specific to her cat. To desensitise I used a homeopathic remedy made from her cat’s own fur. The details of this approach are explained on my rhinitis and hay fever page.

From the first day of treatment she had relief of symptoms. On the first return visit a month ago she told me that she was also down from taking the Ventolin at least twice daily to only twice a week. At this visit she tells me she has only needed the puffer about twice in the month. She has no rhinitis (nose) symptoms at all.

As a result of the constitutional treatment, she is also feeling a big improvement in energy and mood and sleeping better. At this rate she should only need a couple more months of treatment to completely solve her issues. That’s the beauty of homeopathic treatment. Because it works through the body’s own healing mechanisms and immunity, the effects are balancing and lasting. See the page Homeopathy explained.

10.30 am. Case #2 Infant Colic and Reflux

This is an infant, a baby of eight months, for the first return consultation. At the first visit she was suffering from colic and reflux. She also had teething problems and a stuffy nose. The degree of bloating and flatus and the time of aggravation of aggravation of the reflux, together with the nasal obstruction, led me to the homeopathic remedy Lycopodium as the overall constitutional remedy. Colocynthis was given as the acute remedy as needed, as that suited the nature of the pains. I gave Chamomilla for teething, as that suited the teething symptoms. Only a few drops are needed each dose, easily squirted in the mouth. They are always well tolerated by babies, who quickly learn to open their mouths when they see the dropper coming.

The mother reports that within two days the child was much more settled. The snuffles have gone.Over the three weeks since the first visit there have been far less episodes of reflux and only occasional colic. These episodes respond well to Colocynthis, which relieves the pain immediately. Chamomilla also promptly relieves the distress of teething.

I repeat the Lycopodium in a higher potency to  treat deeper and more curatively and schedule for another month. Cases like this usually only need two or three months to completely resolve the issue.

The page treatment of babies and infants has more information on my approach.

11 am. Case #3 Menopause issues

This is a new case, a 54 year old woman with menopausal symptoms. She suffers irrational mood swings, with a marked jealousy of her partner. The hot flushes come with sweats and are especially bad at night. They come as she’s falling asleep and wake her at night. So sleeping is difficult. Palpitations also occur, and her blood pressure has been high.

In taking a new case, I am always particular to ask questions and follow a plan as much as possible, so I don’t miss anything. A “constitutional” remedy, if it is going to work deeply and curatively, must key into all aspects of the person. That means even those things that may seem trivial and unimportant.

I start with the presenting symptoms – the ones that concern the patient. I find out as much as I can about them. What time of day they occur, what they feel like exactly, the sensation. Anything that makes the symptom better or worse, known as the “modality”. Where exactly are the symptoms? Where do they come from and go to – “the extension”. And what other symptoms may be associated with the symptom, known as the “concomitant”.

All these things allow me to best match the remedy that of the patient’s symptoms and help bring about healing. That’s because we know how remedies have their own pattern of symptoms from “provings”. These are the homeopathic trials of each remedy. Because homeopathy is “like cures like”, we must find what remedy is best like the patient. That is the way it works. It is chosen for the patient, not the name of the disease. The remedy for the patient’s menopause must suit her pattern on all levels, not the medical diagnosis of her problem.

I already know the patient has blood pressure issues and is very emotional. She is also quite jealous, which she knows herself to be irrational. In going through all aspects of her history, I confirm she had extreme PMS that was immediately better from the onset of the period. She has palpitations with the flushes, bruises easily and gets a feeling of constriction in her throat when feeling angry.

All these things confirm the homeopathic remedy Lachesis, which is given in LM potency twice daily. A follow up is booked in two weeks at this stage. The remedy fits her case well, so I expect fairly immediate improvement within a couple of days.

Also see my blog page on menopause and the treatment of menopause.

12 pm. Case #4 Acne

Next up is a return case, a 32 year old woman with acne. This is her third monthly visit and she is doing very well. The skin improved significantly in the first month, which it usually does. It has continued to improve over the last two months. She is very happy! I love treating acne. It almost always responds well, and there is nothing that pleases a woman more than to see her skin improve!

It involves taking the whole case, as outlined above. Mostly, the hormonal system is out of balance. One pleasant “side effect” of the treatment is that women usually see all aspects of their menstrual cycle improve. PMS, period pain and cycle irregularities come back into balance as well. As well as homeopathy, I will also usually employ naturopathic dietary approaches as well.

So I give her more of her constitutional remedy. This is helping her feel more balanced emotionally, more energetic and sleeping better. This is helping the skin and periods too, but there is a more direct hormonal remedy and a symptomatic “acne” remedy that reduces pus formation in the skin and helps scarring. As she is doing well I book her next visit for two months now. Most acne cases don’t need more than twelve months of treatment before the body learns to regulate itself.

For more on acne see the acne treatment page and my blog on acne cases.

1 pm. Case #5 Cough

Following this is a simple acute case of a three year old child. The mother booked this late the day before. The child has been coughing for two weeks following a cold. The cough has been incessant and continuous through the day and is now waking him at night. He seems to be having some difficulty breathing. It is moist and sounds wet and rattling, but not much sputum is produced, and I can hear a wheeze through the stethoscope.

The child has vomited several times and has brought up mucus, but this doesn’t seem to relieve the cough. I find the tongue is clean when I check. These symptoms together confirm the homeopathic remedy Ipecacuanha. Such cases usually respond quickly, often immediately a few hours at most and resolve completely in a day or two. I get the mother to ring in tomorrow to report.

For further reference see the page on coughs and bronchitis.

1.30 pm. Case #6 Unexplained Infertility

The return of a 35 year old woman who came first two months ago for “unexplained infertility”. The first thing she tells me is she’s pregnant!

This is no surprise to me, as fertility is a specialty of mine. It is about a quarter of my practice. Most women get pregnant within four months of treatment, and the majority of those in the first two months. But it’s always a wonderful thing to see happen!

She had been trying for two years. All the tests she had were showing normal hormone levels. She was ovulating. Her husband’s sperm was in normal range on all parameters (I saw him too originally.)

However, on the first consultation, it was obvious that her body wasn’t using those hormones correctly at the tissue level. She had mood swings before the period, with tender breasts, for a week, and painful periods for two days. There was little change in cervical mucus at ovulation. She was also feeling tired and stressed. I gave her homeopathic remedies to address these issues and dietary advice.

At the next visit, two weeks into the next cycle she said she felt much better in herself. There were no noticeable PMS symptoms, physical or emotional. The period was so much better, almost pain free. She had just noticed an increase in cervical mucus at ovulation time for the first time in years.

I keep the basic remedies going, except the one for cervical mucus and one that she takes in her luteal phase, and add one that I give in the first few months of pregnancy. She books to follow on in another month. I always recommend monthly treatment for at least the first trimester for my fertility cases, to help ensure a viable pregnancy.

Here is my page on natural fertility treatment.

2 pm. Case #7. Depression

A 50 year old male, initial visit. He has been diagnosed with clinical depression, but does not want to take anti depressants. Depression is a broad term. But I always make sure that anyone who may be capable of self harm has seen a doctor and a psychologist, and a psychiatrist if necessary,  for assessment.

What they do is their own choice, however, and I usually find I can help. I just need to understand the case and give the right remedy. Unlike the medical approach, homeopathy does not treat the label “depression” but the exact pattern of imbalance in the patient.

His Perth business is not doing well. He is finding no joy in life. His blood pressure is up, and he has erectile dysfunction, which is causing him further worry. He has stopped exercising and eating properly. The only thing which gives him any joy is music, especially classical music, which he listens to for at least two hours a day. Although he has been driven to achieve material success, he says he has a deep interest in esoteric spiritual matters. He also meditates daily. He has trouble sleeping and gets deep aches in his body at night.

I prescribe a remedy which covers this pattern of symptoms well, physical and mental. Depression is not something for home treatment. The remedy needs to be specific to your imbalance, so I won’t mention what it is.

I arrange a follow up appointment in one week, because the response should be quick. He has an appointment with his psychologist next week, and I make sure he promises to keep it.

Here is my page on depression and on mental and emotional treatment.

3 pm. Case #8 Interstitial Cystitis

This is the first follow up appointment for a 28 year old female. At her first visit 3 weeks ago she was complaining of urinary frequency and urgency and burning in the urethra. These are usual symptoms of urinary tract infection. In the early days she was given lots of antibiotics, but they never helped, and she was always clear on bacteria in the urine tests.

She also had a lot of undefined pelvic pain. Intercourse was difficult and painful. Her symptoms also appeared to flare before her period. Symptoms were constant however throughout the month. Eventually she was diagnosed with interstitial cystitis.

Today she reports a dramatic improvement in symptoms. She says there has been a 90% improvement. The burning has largely gone. There is still some frequency and urgency but much less. PMS symptoms were much better and the cystitis did not flare at that time.

This is something I usually have good success with. I keep her on the same treatment for another month. I hope to see continuing improvement.

See my page on interstitial cystitis on the conditions treated tab.

3.30 pm. Case #9 Endometriosis

A 29 year old female with endometriosis presents for her first consultation. She has painful periods with heavy bleeding. Her periods are irregular. The symptoms have been occurring for ten years now.

Before her period she gets very irritable and breaks out in acne. Her breasts are swollen and tender. She gets very irritable with her partner at this time. During the period she has extremely painful bearing-down sensations that is is better sitting sown and worse standing. She says she feels as if everything was going to fall out.

She also suffers from migraines, which are left sided and worse before the period. Cold sores also occur regularly and are worse at this time of month. She feels weak and tired most of the time and craves chocolate, but not other sweets, in the late afternoon and when the period is due.

She is irritable with her partner, has lost her libido, is averse to sex, and intercourse is painful anyway. Her job, which she used to like, she can’t stand now and never feels like going to work.

This is a clear picture of the homeopathic remedy Sepia. I choose the appropriate potency and repetition for her case and arrange a follow-up after her next period in three weeks.

She should respond well and improve in the first month, but this is a case that will take careful monthly monitoring and change of potency. She may need different remedies as the picture changes, and “intercurrent” remedies in between. These are remedies to support the action of the main remedy.

Endometriosis is not a condition that can be treated without professional knowledge of the principles and application of homeopathy. Sepia is not “the” remedy for endometriosis.

The treatment of this condition is discussed further on my endometriosis page.

4.30 pm. Case #10. Psoriasis

A 56 year old male presents for his fourth monthly visit. He has had psoriasis on and off for most of his life, but it has been worse in the last ten years. It is now about 90% better and I am hopeful that with a few more months of treatment it will be gone.

The psoriasis was dry and scaly and was worse on the outside of the elbows and knees. The patient was in good health in most respects, except suffering anxiety about the future and new situations. He showed some blood sugar irregularities, craved sweets and had tiredness in the afternoon.

A single constitutional remedy and a “lesional” detox remedy have been his main prescription over the last few months, in ascending potencies. From a naturopathic perspective, I have also removed wheat, dairy, nightshade vegetables and lectins from his diet. I am sure these strategies have helped.

Please visit my page on psoriasis treatment for further details.

5 pm. Recreation time

It’s Monday, and that’s one of the two to three nights a week I do salsa dancing. I also do swing dancing, but at the moment I’m concentrating on the salsa. Both are improvisational dances, but there are many steps to learn.

They are like an art and science in one. Learning the moves requires great mental discipline, concentration and memory. Their execution requires quick, intuitive decision making. You need to be creative and keep time to the beat, at the same time as being in tune with and responsive to your partner. It’s not unlike homeopathy I feel. When it all comes together, it works well and it’s a supreme, intuitive art form.

First I have a Thai green curry with brown rice from the nearby Thai Wrap and Rice. Then it’s off to Rapture Salsa Dance Academy at the Arts Centre, near to the Perth CBD. Here I do level 2 and level 3 salsa for a couple of hours.

After that, there’s a forty minute drive home, past Perth city and up the Hill again. Cha-cha is waiting for me in the driveway. She always hops on top of the car when I drive in and stop.

It’s late – 10 pm. She’s eager to be fed of course! That done, it’s off to bed for the both of us…

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