PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ‘FLU THIS WINTER WITH HOMEOPATHY

The annual concern about flu epidemics is with us again, in the popular media and amongst the public. The Society of Homeopaths is often asked how our members help to prevent and treat ‘flu and what we feel about vaccination.

Boost your natural immunity:

 The best possible prevention against ‘flu is a strong immune system. Homeopaths aim to boost your natural immunity and can do this in a number of ways. They can offer anti-flu remedies if you are susceptible to respiratory illnesses in the winter and they may give helpful advice on supplementing your diet at this time of year, for example with Vitamin C and Echinacea extract. They will also prescribe for the acute symptoms of ‘flu.

 For all of these there is some proof of effectiveness.

 By contacting a local Registered Homeopath, you are taking a step in the right direction.

The ‘Flu vaccine:

 The Society acknowledges that there is much anecdotal and scientific evidence to support the arguments presented for and against vaccination. The Society believes that patients should be supported in making rational informed decisions on the short and long-term implications of vaccination. However, in the case of the ‘flu vaccine, evidence of effectiveness is difficult to find.

 A systematic review into research on the effectiveness of flu vaccines, published in September 2005 in The Lancet found that such treatments are far less effective than previously thought(1).

Homeopathic remedies are commonly used in the treatment of influenza all over the world. Eight trials have investigated prevention of ‘flu, with half demonstrating a positive beneficial effect from homeopathic treatment. It is generally accepted that the current weight of evidence favours the efficacy of homeopathic treatment in the treatment of influenza(2).

Bird ‘Flu:

 The Society has yet to see a clear report of the full symptom-picture for Avian ‘flu and there is currently no prophylactic homeopathic remedy for the disease. In the meantime, homeopaths will continue to prescribe the combination prophylactic (anti-‘flu) remedy currently available.

If you think you are getting ‘flu:

 The following homeopathic remedies can form a ‘flu first aid kit in the home and can be purchased over the counter from pharmacies and health-shops, or ordered from homeopathic pharmacies.

Arsen-alb 30c Influenza & gastroenteritis, vomiting and diarrhoea, high fever, hot body yet feels very chilled, better warmth, worse 1 am-2am very restless, anxious & fearful.

Bryonia-alb 30c Slow onset, very thirsty, must lie absolutely still, pains much worse for slight motion; irritable, wants to be alone, quiet. Worse 9 pm, severe headache, worse pressure.

Gelsemium 30c Slow onset, ‘flu with weakness, heaviness, chills up and down the spine, lethargy, muscular aches, eyelids droop. Occipital headache radiates to forehead.

Nux vomica 30c ‘Flu with great sensitivity to noise, touch; worse slightest uncovering, irritability, feels like a hangover

Rhus tox 30c ‘ Flu with aching and restlessness, better movement, worse on continued exertion, worse cold and damp, better heat, wrapping up.

 Homeopathic pharmacies:

www.helios.co.uk

www.ainsworth.co.uk

References:

 (1) The Lancet 2005;366:1165-1174

 (2) Mathie (2003) The research evidence base for homeopathy: a fresh assessment of the literature Homeopathy 92, 84-91