My introduction to homeopathy

When I moved back to Chicago in 1993, I was faced with the dilemma of finding a new primary-care physician. I wanted someone who was caring, competent, and convenient.

Fortunately, a half block down the street from my office was a medical building. That solved the convenience issue. I picked

Then, she said to me: “I am a family physician and I practice traditional medicine. But I was born and raised in Europe where we use homeopathy to treat illnesses and conditions. I like to use homeopathy in treating my patients. If you are comfortable with the idea of homeopathy, I would like you to try a homeopathic remedy.”

Her comment took me by surprise. Today I know about homeopathy; in 1993 I hardly knew how to spell it.

Unfortunately, my doctor did not offer an explanation about homeopathy or the remedy she was prescribing.

Since the doctor prescribed it, I purchased the homeopathic product and took it until the vial was exhausted. I can’t say that it made me feel any better. It didn’t make me feel worse. The best I can say is that my first experience with homeopathy was neutral.

Homeopathy can be — should be — much more than a neutral experience. It can be a very effective and safe way to treat conditions. It could have been that for me, had my doctor done a few things differently. Today, I realize she should have:

• Explained homeopathy to me;
• Told me what to expect. And when to expect it;
• Instructed me to call back. Or better, she should have called me to follow up.

Perhaps my introduction to homeopathy had more to do with my choice of a physician than with homeopathy itself. Nevertheless, I think the lesson to be learned is this: If you recommend homeopathic and herbal remedies, talk to your patients.

This issue of Chiropractic Economics is devoted to herbs and homeopathy. I hope you will find that the articles will give you the information and words to help your patients understand and value this adjunct to chiropractic and good health.

Until next time,

Linda Segall, Editor-in-Chief