Homeopathic medicine is a form of complementary medicine that was developed by Samuel Hahnemann 1796.
Background
The basic principle of homeopathic medicine is that "like cures like." Practitioners believe that natural ingredients, usually plant and mineral extracts, that create a set of symptoms in a healthy person will also cure the same symptoms in a sick person.
Preparation
The preparer uses alcohol or distilled water to dilute the natural remedy, and then lets it cure for several weeks. Afterward, the mixture is strained to create a "mother tincture," or full-strength remedy.
Dosing
The mother tincture is diluted with alcohol and distilled water to create different doses, which are taken as liquids or small pills. Two scales are used to measure homeopathic doses, the decimal scale (measured in Xs; 1X= low potency and 400X = highest potency) and the centesimal scale (measured in Cs; 1C=lowest potency and 200C = highest potency).
Safety
The Federal Drug Administration has regulated homeopathic medicines since 1938, so they are considered safe.
Availability
Homeopathic medicines are widely available at health food stores and markets. You don't need a prescription to purchase them. Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are using an homeopathic medicines, as they could interact with other medicines.
Tags: alcohol distilled, alcohol distilled water, distilled water, highest potency, homeopathic medicines, medicine that