Homeopathy And Seniors

India is perhaps one of the few countries where traditional therapies thrive as much as allopathy does. Many Indian households rely on Ayurveda, the ancient Indian therapy to treat most common disorders. We also have Homeopathy,  Unani, and Naturopathy.

All these are regulated by the  Ministry of Ayush, Department of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. Therefore, when you visit a clinic, you just need to ensure that the person is a qualified doctor as approved by this ministry guidelines. Each of these treatments is based on some clear understanding of the human body and issues therein. Hence, the treatment is almost always individualized and mostly not over-the-counter (OTC)  type.

HOMEOPATHY

This treatment system believes that the body can cure itself. Hence, the practitioners only give the medicines to aid that cure. The system was established by Dr. Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann, more than 200 years ago. Since that time, it has traveled across the world and is popular in India. Mostly homeopathic doctors use natural substances to treat the diseases based on certain laid down guidelines.

Some people fully rely on homeopathic treatments, as it has not much side effects. However, there is not much scientific evidence to prove the levels of efficacy of Homeo for any disease as such. Common problems like cough, skin disorders, allergies, menstrual issues, headaches, migraines, etc., can be cured using this system. This is time taking and cannot replace allopathic care for emergency and serious health disorders like cancer, heart problems, etc.

WHY IT MAY SUIT SENIORS?

Some seniors need to take many tablets for regular issues. In the long run, this affects their bodies and immune system in some way. When they come across any other issue in between, more allopathic medicine may cause more issues of even compatibility. Thus, for those seeking out traditional therapies, Homeopathy is an option that may be considered.

Homeopathic medicines work gently and slowly but most often do provide a permanent cure. Also, the chances of any hazardous side effects are almost nil in Homeopathy medicines as they are in very diluted form prescribed in minor quantities. As such, they help preserve the body’s immunity and even help boost it. During the recent pandemic, many people resorted to Homeo medicines to keep up their immunity, though it is to be noted that it is neither a cure nor a vaccine.

SOME TIPS

Treatment should be availed only from a qualified and trusted doctor after checking out reviews from others. All reports are to be carried with you and explained to the Homeopathic doctor, mentioning any allopathic medicines being taken. The complete regimes prescribed by the doctor should be followed diligently. It is slow, and hence one needs to be patient. Taking double doses of the prescribed medicines or taking them more times than prescribed will not help the cause. Overdose can turn out to be harmful.

There could be associated diet plans like avoiding certain beverages or certain food items. Since most often these are small, round sweet globules that melt easily, follow care while taking them out. Do not use wet or dirty hands to touch them, pour into the palm, put the rest back in the bottle, etc. Also, these should be kept on the tongue to melt and swallow, rather than bite and chew. If you miss a dose, take the next one at the prescribed time and not in between when you remember. Report any abnormal symptoms to the doctor immediately to change the medicine or the dosage. These are usually long-term treatments, and so the follow-up plans should be adhered to.

15 years back, I suffered from some skin problem similar to Eczema. I tried allopathic medicines for more than 7 months, and instead of the problem getting subsided, it flared up. I do not remember how many investigating tests were done, including biopsy but with the medicines which were prescribed, the results were not encouraging. In the end, the Skin Specialist who was treating me suggested trying Homeopathic treatment. Then I consulted a known Homeopathic doctor, and it took him more than 18 months to control and cure the problem.

Waiting for your views on this blog.

Anil Malik

Mumbai, India

15^th June 2022