Homeopathy And Depression

Homeopathy and depression have a long history together. Like conventional antidepressants, homoeopathic remedies can help some people recover from depression.

What is homoeopathy?

Homoeopathy is a system of medicine that treats the whole person, taking into account mental and bodily types as well as the symptoms of the disease.

One of its main principles is that 'like cures like', in other words the symptoms of an illness caused by a substance will be cured by the same substance given in homoeopathic form.

Homoeopathy is often referred to as an alternative medicine, but it is better thought of as 'complementary' because it can be used alongside conventional antidepressants.

Homeopathy and depression remedies are made by grinding plants or other substances and then dissolving them in alcohol to produce the 'mother tincture'.

From the mother tincture the remedies are made by a process of dilution in either alcohol or water and succussion (a process of repetitive violent shaking that is believed to energize the medicine).

The dilutions are usually repeated many times, and one of the scientific criticisms of homoeopathy and depression remedies is that the preparations are so dilute that they can hardly contain any of the original substance.

A number of theories have been advanced to overcome this criticism, one of which is the energetic "memory of water".

Homoeopathic remedies are dilute, safe and free of side effects. They probably work by acting as a catalyst, pushing the body's own systems (including its immune system) in the direction of a cure.

However, a consistent scientific explanation - confirmed on repeated scientific testing and trials - as to why homeopathy should improve people’s health has not been proven.

Homoeopathic remedies can be used alone, or in conjunction with prescribed medication.

It is not always necessary to consult your doctor prior to using homoeopathic remedies. You should, however, tell your doctor about any herbal remedies that you are taking (eg St John's wort) because of the possible interactions with medications and you should not discontinue antidepressant drugs without prior consultation.

Remedies can be bought over the counter in certain pharmacies and healthfood shops. Always consult your doctor for homeopathy and depression if symptoms are persistent, severe or interfere with daily life.

Homeopathy and depression remedies that may help in the treatment of depression are:

Arsenicum album

Made from white arsenic, this remedy is indicated for people who worry unduly about their health, or who are perfectionists and overly critical of themselves and others. They are at risk of depression if they fail to reach their own high standards. People who respond to Arsenicum album are often physically worse in cold weather, very sensitive to pain and suffer most between midnight and 2am.

Aurum metallicum

Made from gold and used for people who are workaholics with an excessive sense of duty. This renders them prone to despair, feelings of worthlessness and suicidal thoughts following a perceived failure in their work or personal life. People who do well with Aurum metallicum often feel better by walking outdoors.

Calcium carbonicum

Suits people whose outward strong, dependable and industrious appearance hides a shy and introverted nature. Such people can be left feeling fatigued, anxious, withdrawn and self-pitying by overwhelming work pressures. People who respond to this remedy, which is made from the inner layer of an oyster shell, are chilly people who sweat easily, who periodically feel sluggish and suffer with insomnia - especially when away from home.

Ignatia amara

Suits those who become depressed after trying to suppress feelings of grief, despair or emotional upset at the expense of outbursts of hysteria or mood swings. People who respond to the homoeopathic form of the St Ignatius bean may suffer from a lump in the throat and frequent bouts of yawning. The remedy is often used after bereavement.

Kali phosphoricum

Benefits people who are normally clear sighted and extrovert, who suffer from the effects of exhaustion from overwork by becoming shy, seeking their own company and flinching at sudden noises. Alongside the change in mood they often develop muscular weakness, yellow discharges and may wake early with hunger pangs.

Lachesis muta

This remedy made from snake venom can help depression caused by repression, jealousy or suspicion. Suits people who hate commitment and confinement. They may worry about world affairs and be very talkative. Lachesis may treat menopausal depression, particularly if the woman feels worse on waking and suffers with hot sweats.

Natrium carbonicum

Gentle, unselfish people who care deeply for their family and friends may become depressed after a loss or disappointment. They try to hide their feelings from others, which does not help their condition. Constitutionally, they have weak digestive systems and a marked intolerance to dairy products. When suffering, they isolate themselves and may listen to sad music. Natrium carbonicum may help in these cases.

Natrium muraticum

This remedy is helpful for sensitive, refined, serious-minded people, whose inner feelings are strong and may be of anger, grief or fear of losing control. The manner in which they bottle up these feelings may lead to depression. They dislike consolation from others and appear stoical and controlled. They need to be alone to cry and can be moved to tears by music. People benefiting from this remedy often suffer from migraines and are fatigued by the sun.

Pulsatilla nigricans

People needing this remedy appear childlike with emotions that vary from moody and clingy to yielding and sensitive. When depressed, they cry readily and enjoy consolation and need the support of others. Pulsatilla is a useful remedy for depression due to hormonal changes after childbirth or menopause. The woman will often crave sweet foods and put on weight.

Sepia

Sepia is made from cuttlefish ink. It is used for weary, irritable people - especially when overwhelmed by their responsibilities to family members. They direct their irritability towards loved ones, and have trouble in explaining their symptoms. The remedy is used for postnatal depression, loss of libido and menopausal symptoms, especially when accompanied by a sagging feeling in the pelvic area.

Staphysagria

Suppressed emotions, particularly rage, that can erupt under severe pressure, can be helped with this remedy. When the person is well they are mild and yielding, but they can be addicted to work. A high sex drive is often present. Stress related headaches, toothache and stomachache are pointers to the use of this remedy.

Dosage Information

How to take the remedies

With homeopathy and depression, it is important to always read the instructions and listen to any advice given. The basic rule is to take one dose as directed and observe the effects. The dose may be repeated two or three times a day without danger. In marked contrast to conventional remedies for depression, the advice is to stop taking homoeopathic remedies as soon as an improvement is seen. If no improvement is seen in 10 days, rather than switching to a different remedy, seek qualified advice to obtain a better match or see your doctor.

You do need to realize that with homeopathy and depression, like other natural remedies, most mainstream physicians will not even entertain the thought of homeopathy. This does not mean thta it may not help you. If you think that this may be a treatment for you, then you would probably do well to find a trained homeopath in your area.

Homeopathy and depression can go well together to effect a cure but it does not always produce the desired effect. While many people have reported cures with homeopathy and depression, it still seems to be very dependent on the skill of the homeopath in determining the correct preparation.

You should be specifically aware that any major depression will probably require at least a short course of medication while you pursue other remedies due to the high risk of suicidal tendencies in major depression.

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