What is Homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a
natural, gentle and extremely effective system of
medicine that was developed over 200 years ago and is
now practised worldwide.
It was developed by a German doctor, Samuel Hahnemann (b. 1755) who was unhappy with the harsh and dangerous medicines of his time and who began to study gentler ways of healing.
Homeopathy works on the principle that ‘like cures like’, so any substance which gives a healthy person symptoms of an illness can also be used to cure those same symptoms in a sick person.
For example, when cutting an onion we often experience symptoms such as stinging, watery eyes and a runny nose. These same symptoms are often present in cases of hayfever and so a homeopath may prescribe the remedy Allium Cepa (onion) in some hayfever cases.
Homeopathy can be used to address the symptoms of many physical disorders (eg., asthma, eczema, irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, etc) and also mental/emotional disorders (eg., depression, grief, panic attacks, eating disorders, etc).
It aims to treat the underlying cause of symptoms and stimulate the body’s own natural healing process. By bringing the body back into balance and allowing it to function at its optimum level homeopathy can enhance the general sense of health and well-being.
Homeopathy works differently from the standard form of conventional Western medicine. For example, in a case of psoriasis the medical treatment is likely to be in the form of a steroid cream. This may well apparently ‘cure’ the patient of the distressing skin symptoms, however, has it really dealt with the reason why the symptoms manifested in the first place? The homeopathic viewpoint is that the steroid cream has just suppressed the symptoms, pushing them back down into the body. This has not really dealt with the root cause of the problem and it is very likely that the body will just exhibit the symptoms again if the cream treatment is stopped. The body manifests symptoms in the same way someone might wave a red flag to draw attention to a problem or danger. It is the body’s way of drawing your attention to a problem.
A homeopath would discuss with the patient when the psoriasis first began, what the exact symptoms were (before any medical intervention) and what was going on in his/her life around that time that may have caused upset. This could be a physical trauma such as being involved in a car accident or an emotional trauma such as witnessing a car accident.
NB: A professional homeopath should never suggest that you stop taking medications prescribed by your doctor. If your symptoms improve through homeopathic treatment then it may be appropriate that you discuss the possibility of decreasing medications very gradually and in consultation with your doctor and homeopath.
It was developed by a German doctor, Samuel Hahnemann (b. 1755) who was unhappy with the harsh and dangerous medicines of his time and who began to study gentler ways of healing.
Homeopathy works on the principle that ‘like cures like’, so any substance which gives a healthy person symptoms of an illness can also be used to cure those same symptoms in a sick person.
For example, when cutting an onion we often experience symptoms such as stinging, watery eyes and a runny nose. These same symptoms are often present in cases of hayfever and so a homeopath may prescribe the remedy Allium Cepa (onion) in some hayfever cases.
Homeopathy can be used to address the symptoms of many physical disorders (eg., asthma, eczema, irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, etc) and also mental/emotional disorders (eg., depression, grief, panic attacks, eating disorders, etc).
It aims to treat the underlying cause of symptoms and stimulate the body’s own natural healing process. By bringing the body back into balance and allowing it to function at its optimum level homeopathy can enhance the general sense of health and well-being.
Homeopathy works differently from the standard form of conventional Western medicine. For example, in a case of psoriasis the medical treatment is likely to be in the form of a steroid cream. This may well apparently ‘cure’ the patient of the distressing skin symptoms, however, has it really dealt with the reason why the symptoms manifested in the first place? The homeopathic viewpoint is that the steroid cream has just suppressed the symptoms, pushing them back down into the body. This has not really dealt with the root cause of the problem and it is very likely that the body will just exhibit the symptoms again if the cream treatment is stopped. The body manifests symptoms in the same way someone might wave a red flag to draw attention to a problem or danger. It is the body’s way of drawing your attention to a problem.
A homeopath would discuss with the patient when the psoriasis first began, what the exact symptoms were (before any medical intervention) and what was going on in his/her life around that time that may have caused upset. This could be a physical trauma such as being involved in a car accident or an emotional trauma such as witnessing a car accident.
NB: A professional homeopath should never suggest that you stop taking medications prescribed by your doctor. If your symptoms improve through homeopathic treatment then it may be appropriate that you discuss the possibility of decreasing medications very gradually and in consultation with your doctor and homeopath.
The Remedies
There are over 2,000
natural homeopathic remedies available today and this
list is constantly growing. Remedies are derived from
plants, minerals, metals and other naturally
occurring substances.
A small amount of the original substance is progressively diluted. Between each dilution the substance is also shaken vigorously (succussed) in order to release the natural healing properties of the substance.
Remedies are carefully diluted to give different strengths (potencies) and this dilution process renders normally poisonous substances harmless, for example, Belladonna and Arsenicum.
Homeopathic remedies are safe, non-toxic and non-addictive. As such they can be prescribed for children and during pregnancy, when conventional medicines are often not recommended.
Remedies can also be taken alongside medication from your GP. Medicines should not be stopped suddenly but as you feel better you may be able to reduce some medications in consultation with your GP.
A small amount of the original substance is progressively diluted. Between each dilution the substance is also shaken vigorously (succussed) in order to release the natural healing properties of the substance.
Remedies are carefully diluted to give different strengths (potencies) and this dilution process renders normally poisonous substances harmless, for example, Belladonna and Arsenicum.
Homeopathic remedies are safe, non-toxic and non-addictive. As such they can be prescribed for children and during pregnancy, when conventional medicines are often not recommended.
Remedies can also be taken alongside medication from your GP. Medicines should not be stopped suddenly but as you feel better you may be able to reduce some medications in consultation with your GP.
The Consultation
The key to successful
homeopathic treatment is to ascertain your physical,
mental and emotional constitution in order that the
appropriate remedy can be selected.
As well as taking your medical history you will be asked about your general health, your particular likes and dislikes around food, weather, seasons, environment, and anything else that is particular and unique to you.
Personality traits are also taken into account, such as how you react in certain situations, how you express your feelings, etc. You may also be asked to say something about the sort of person you are. All this information is used to build up a picture of you as a whole person.
Initial consultations will last approximately one and a half hours, with follow up appointments being up to one hour. Sessions are generally monthly although this may depend on the individual case.
Advice may also be given regarding diet and lifestyle and herbal supplements may be suggested in addition to your homeopathic remedies.
As well as taking your medical history you will be asked about your general health, your particular likes and dislikes around food, weather, seasons, environment, and anything else that is particular and unique to you.
Personality traits are also taken into account, such as how you react in certain situations, how you express your feelings, etc. You may also be asked to say something about the sort of person you are. All this information is used to build up a picture of you as a whole person.
Initial consultations will last approximately one and a half hours, with follow up appointments being up to one hour. Sessions are generally monthly although this may depend on the individual case.
Advice may also be given regarding diet and lifestyle and herbal supplements may be suggested in addition to your homeopathic remedies.
What Happens Next?
Remedies are usually
sent in the post a few days after your consultation.
Clear instructions on how to take your remedies will
also be included.
Homeopathic remedies are most commonly given in the form of tiny white pills which should be left to dissolve in the mouth and not swallowed. You should avoid eating, drinking, smoking or brushing your teeth for 15 minutes before and 15 minutes after taking your remedy. Remedies are best stored away from sunlight and any strong smelling substances.
After taking your remedy you may notice some changes. Sometimes your symptoms may appear to get worse for a short time, or old symptoms may reappear. You may get a cold, or some other form of discharge. This may be evidence of a ‘spring-cleaning’ process in action. This can be an important part of the healing process and these symptoms are better left, if possible, to resolve themselves. Patients often comment on an improved sense of well being and increased energy. (It would be useful to note any changes to discuss with your homeopath at your next appointment.)
If any response to your treatment concerns you then you should always contact your homeopath to discuss the situation.
Homeopathic remedies are most commonly given in the form of tiny white pills which should be left to dissolve in the mouth and not swallowed. You should avoid eating, drinking, smoking or brushing your teeth for 15 minutes before and 15 minutes after taking your remedy. Remedies are best stored away from sunlight and any strong smelling substances.
After taking your remedy you may notice some changes. Sometimes your symptoms may appear to get worse for a short time, or old symptoms may reappear. You may get a cold, or some other form of discharge. This may be evidence of a ‘spring-cleaning’ process in action. This can be an important part of the healing process and these symptoms are better left, if possible, to resolve themselves. Patients often comment on an improved sense of well being and increased energy. (It would be useful to note any changes to discuss with your homeopath at your next appointment.)
If any response to your treatment concerns you then you should always contact your homeopath to discuss the situation.
How Long will Treatment Take?
Duration of treatment
will depend on the individual circumstances, history
and duration of the problem. If you have been unwell
for a number of years then it will generally take
longer to alleviate your symptoms.
It will also depend on how good your general energy levels are, as this is the energy which you have available to get better with.
Duration of treatment will be discussed during your initial consultation.
It will also depend on how good your general energy levels are, as this is the energy which you have available to get better with.
Duration of treatment will be discussed during your initial consultation.
Ongoing Support
Many people visit a
homeopath at regular intervals during the year to
enhance and maintain their health. In the same way we
take our cars for an MOT it is helpful to
occasionally have our own ‘MOT’ in order to keep our
health and energy at maximum levels.
All my patients are encouraged to contact me if they have any queries between appointments and I am always happy to discuss your case on the telephone or by e-mail. Please bear in mind that this is really for minor queries as anything more complicated should be addressed in a formal appointment where due time and consideration can be given.
If for any reason you are unable to reach me then I recommend you contact the Homeopathic Helpline on 09065 343404. Lines are open from 9am until midnight and calls are charged at £1.50 per minute. The team of homeopaths on the phone lines will normally take just a few minutes to advise on your query.
I also sell Helios Basic Kits containing 36 remedies. These normally retail at £38.95 (plus p+p) but are available with me at £32. Kits contain instruction booklets which provide all the information necessary for a homeopathic beginner to administer remedies at home in basic first aid situations.
I also produce a monthly email newsletter, free of charge and with no obligation. Topics covered to date include fertility, skin issues and travel remedies. Go to ‘Downloads’ section to see previous issues and please send me an email if you would like to sign up for future issues.
All my patients are encouraged to contact me if they have any queries between appointments and I am always happy to discuss your case on the telephone or by e-mail. Please bear in mind that this is really for minor queries as anything more complicated should be addressed in a formal appointment where due time and consideration can be given.
If for any reason you are unable to reach me then I recommend you contact the Homeopathic Helpline on 09065 343404. Lines are open from 9am until midnight and calls are charged at £1.50 per minute. The team of homeopaths on the phone lines will normally take just a few minutes to advise on your query.
I also sell Helios Basic Kits containing 36 remedies. These normally retail at £38.95 (plus p+p) but are available with me at £32. Kits contain instruction booklets which provide all the information necessary for a homeopathic beginner to administer remedies at home in basic first aid situations.
I also produce a monthly email newsletter, free of charge and with no obligation. Topics covered to date include fertility, skin issues and travel remedies. Go to ‘Downloads’ section to see previous issues and please send me an email if you would like to sign up for future issues.
Appointments & Fees
Face to
Face
1st Appointment (adult) £60 (90 mins)
Follow ups (adult) £45 (60 mins)
1st Appointment (child) £40 (60 mins)
Follow up (child) £35 (30 mins)
Baby appointments £20 (30 mins)
(up to 2 years of age)
Telephone
1st Appointment (adult) £50 (90 mins)
Follow ups (adult) £30 (60 mins)
Low Cost Clinic & Concessions
I hold a Low Cost Clinic at The Conscious Health Centre in Twickenham on the 3rd Tuesday afternoon of each month.
Adults £25 (60 mins)
Children £15 (30 mins)
In a small, personal bid to support the arts I particularly extend my concession rate to any musicians, singers, dancers, actors, artists and craftspeople who would like to use homeopathy but may struggle with the fees.
Concessionary consults are only available at The Conscious Health Centre during the monthly Low Cost Clinic but I make this rate available for a certain number of consultations at my home and at the Ark in Haverfordwest.
I’m always happy to have an informal chat to discuss how homeopathy could be beneficial for you – just call or email!
Please note: fees include all homeopathic remedies but not any suggested herbal tinctures or supplements, etc.
Cancellations: There is a 24 hour cancellation policy and any cancellation less than 24 hours before the appointment is likely to incur the full fee.
1st Appointment (adult) £60 (90 mins)
Follow ups (adult) £45 (60 mins)
1st Appointment (child) £40 (60 mins)
Follow up (child) £35 (30 mins)
Baby appointments £20 (30 mins)
(up to 2 years of age)
Telephone
1st Appointment (adult) £50 (90 mins)
Follow ups (adult) £30 (60 mins)
Low Cost Clinic & Concessions
I hold a Low Cost Clinic at The Conscious Health Centre in Twickenham on the 3rd Tuesday afternoon of each month.
Adults £25 (60 mins)
Children £15 (30 mins)
In a small, personal bid to support the arts I particularly extend my concession rate to any musicians, singers, dancers, actors, artists and craftspeople who would like to use homeopathy but may struggle with the fees.
Concessionary consults are only available at The Conscious Health Centre during the monthly Low Cost Clinic but I make this rate available for a certain number of consultations at my home and at the Ark in Haverfordwest.
I’m always happy to have an informal chat to discuss how homeopathy could be beneficial for you – just call or email!
Please note: fees include all homeopathic remedies but not any suggested herbal tinctures or supplements, etc.
Cancellations: There is a 24 hour cancellation policy and any cancellation less than 24 hours before the appointment is likely to incur the full fee.
Locations
The Conscious Health
Centre
64 Hampton Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW2 5QB
Tel: 0203 370 6488
The Ark
11 Quay Street, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire SA61 1BG
Tel: 01437 767 499
I am available at both clinics on an ad hoc basis. You can contact me directly or contact the clinics for further information or to make an appointment.
At my home
I practice from my home in central Twickenham which allows me to provide a very private, safe and personal consultation space. As I am sure you will understand this means that I prefer not to provide my full home address on this website. For your reference I am located close to Twickenham BR station, various bus routes and there is Pay & Display parking close by. Full address details and directions are provided when you make an appointment.
If you suffer with an allergy to cats then this option is probably not suitable for you. My feline friend, Ziggy, will probably want to come and say hello – if she rises from her extensive beauty sleep!
Home visits
I can visit you if you are not able to reach me, however I do limit this service to Twickenham and local areas and to those who are too ill to travel or with mobility problems.
Please contact me to discuss this service as an additional fee may apply depending on circumstances/distance.
64 Hampton Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW2 5QB
Tel: 0203 370 6488
The Ark
11 Quay Street, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire SA61 1BG
Tel: 01437 767 499
I am available at both clinics on an ad hoc basis. You can contact me directly or contact the clinics for further information or to make an appointment.
At my home
I practice from my home in central Twickenham which allows me to provide a very private, safe and personal consultation space. As I am sure you will understand this means that I prefer not to provide my full home address on this website. For your reference I am located close to Twickenham BR station, various bus routes and there is Pay & Display parking close by. Full address details and directions are provided when you make an appointment.
If you suffer with an allergy to cats then this option is probably not suitable for you. My feline friend, Ziggy, will probably want to come and say hello – if she rises from her extensive beauty sleep!
Home visits
I can visit you if you are not able to reach me, however I do limit this service to Twickenham and local areas and to those who are too ill to travel or with mobility problems.
Please contact me to discuss this service as an additional fee may apply depending on circumstances/distance.
Telephone Consults
It
is always preferable to have a face-to-face
consultation but I understand that this is not always
possible. For telephone consultations I will send you
a brief form to complete and request that you provide
a photograph of yourself along with a few paragraphs
describing yourself (ideally in your own
handwriting).
When we arrange this call I can provide a landline number for you to call if that is more economical for you. (Payment is requested by cheque or bank transfer following the call).
To best benefit from a telephone consult I ask you ensure your consultation time is uninterrupted and conducted in a private space where you will be able to speak freely without fear of being overheard.
Please note that this service is not suitable for certain conditions, for example eczema, acne and psoriasis, where it is necessary to actually see problem.
(At present the service is limited to calls within the UK.)
When we arrange this call I can provide a landline number for you to call if that is more economical for you. (Payment is requested by cheque or bank transfer following the call).
To best benefit from a telephone consult I ask you ensure your consultation time is uninterrupted and conducted in a private space where you will be able to speak freely without fear of being overheard.
Please note that this service is not suitable for certain conditions, for example eczema, acne and psoriasis, where it is necessary to actually see problem.
(At present the service is limited to calls within the UK.)
Emergencies
If for any reason you
are unable to reach me then I recommend you contact
the Homeopathic Helpline on 09065 343404. Lines are
open from 9am until midnight and calls are charged at
£1.50 per minute. The experienced team of homeopaths
on the phone lines will normally take just a few
minutes to advise you on your query.
In cases of emergencies please contact your GP, NHS Direct (tel: 0845 4647, or www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk) or go to your local Accident & Emergency department to seek advice and treatment.
In cases of emergencies please contact your GP, NHS Direct (tel: 0845 4647, or www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk) or go to your local Accident & Emergency department to seek advice and treatment.