Our handy guide to using and storing homeopathic remedies
If you are reasonably new to homeopathy or just curious about it, one of the questions I am often asked is how to take the remedies and how to store them. So, I wrote this blog to give you some helpful tips on using homeopathic remedies correctly and storing them securely!
Using Homeopathic Remedies
- Talk to a Homeopath:
First things first, when should you chat to a homeopath? You may already have used some individual remedies like arnica or combination ones like Traumeel. Homeopathic remedies can be helpful without a consultation such as using arnica when you have bumped yourself and have a bruise appearing. But did you know there are thousands of homeopathic remedies? And there could be many that may be helpful for bruising, but Arnica is the most commonly used and best-known.If you have something more serious, I suggest having a chat to your homeopath or you can often have a 15 minute free chat to find out whether it’s necessary to see one. I’ll talk about what a homeopathic consultation involves another time. - Follow the Dosage:
Homeopathic remedies come in different forms like pellets/pilules, liquids, or creams. Just do what the label says or what your homeopath recommends. If you have received instructions from your homeopath – it is important to please follow those instructions! If you have a whole bottle DO NOT finish the bottle – it is not like antibiotics where you need to finish your ‘cycle’. Homeopathy works on the principle of minimal dose, this means, we use as little as possible to effect an outcome. - Administering the remedy:
Avoid touching the pilules with your hands. Ideally you pour one pilule (or the indicated number) into the cap, knock this back into your mouth, move it under your tongue and let it dissolve.
If you’re using liquid dilutions, a few drops under your tongue should do the trick. Be careful not to touch the dropper to your mouth.
If you need to take more than one type of remedy, take them at least 15 minutes apart. - When to take them:
To get the most out of your remedy, take it at least 15 minutes before or after eating or drinking. Remedies are perfectly safe to take on an empty stomach. Ideally you will avoid strong flavours like mint, coffee, or spicy food right before or after taking a remedy. They might mess with its effectiveness. Homeopathic remedies are also perfectly safe to take if you are pregnant. If you are currently taking medication, it is advisable that you check with your homeopath. - Keep a Symptom Diary:
Note how your symptoms change while using the remedy. This helps your homeopath adjust your treatment if needed. It also helps you keep track of what worked for you and what didn’t.
Storing Homeopathic Remedies Safely
Homeopathic remedies are an energy-based substance and therefore need to be stored properly in order to preserve their effectiveness. So here is what you need to know:
- Store in a Cool, Dark Place:
Keep them in a cool, dark spot away from sunlight and extreme temperatures. - Avoid Strong Smells:
Don’t let your remedies hang out with strong-smelling stuff like perfume, essential oils, or cleaning products. They can mess with the remedies’ effectiveness. - Seal the Containers Tight:
Always make sure the lids on your remedy containers are sealed tight as it makes them last longer. - Keep Clean:
If you need a spoon or dropper, make sure they’re clean. Don’t use the same spoon for different remedies. And while this might seem obvious, wash your hands before handling homeopathic remedies – this is just good practice for good health. - Electromagnetic Fields:
Some people suggest keeping remedies away from electronic devices and strong electromagnetic fields just as an extra precaution. Note that it is safe to take your remedy kit through the airport Xray machines.
I hope this helps you understand the importance of using and storing remedies correctly. Remember, it’s always helpful to chat with a homeopath for advice tailored to your health needs. Good luck on your wellness journey!