Homeopathy – the natural approach to healing

By Klysha Best

Have you ever come across the term homeopathy? This alternative system of medicine, which has been around for approximately 200 years, seeks to enhance the body’s inherent healing capabilities.

Homeopathy stands apart from conventional medicine in several significant ways.

It views health issues as complex and multifaceted, adopts a holistic approach tailored to the individual patient, and aims to address the root causes of illness rather than merely alleviating symptoms.

According to Azreena Khan, a trained and qualified homeopath who runs the Homeopathic Clinic TT, homeopathic remedies work by gently stimulating the body’s natural healing processes.

“This is achieved by identifying the underlying causes of symptoms—whether it is emotional, environmental, or mental—and addressing them with homeopathic remedies,” Khan explained.

This method focuses on long-lasting wellness by treating the core issues, rather than just masking symptoms.

Khan’s journey into alternative medicine has personal roots. As a child, she experienced numerous health struggles, including digestive issues, skin problems, and later, severe depression and a hormonal imbalance that was diagnosed as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

Despite seeking help from doctors and therapists, she often found little relief, leading her on a quest for true healing. It was through a referral to a homeopath in the United Kingdom that she discovered the transformative power of homeopathy, which she credits with saving her life.

“Once I began treatment, I felt a remarkable shift in my health. After nearly ten years of using homeopathy, I feel more whole and alive,” Khan reflected.

Inspired by her positive outcomes, Khan pursued her education in homeopathy and is now a licensed practitioner, treating patients locally and internationally. Her goal is to extend her practice across the Caribbean.

While Khan’s story exemplifies personal success with homeopathy, the practice still faces skepticism. Critics often label it as “quackery” or merely a placebo.

Khan challenges these notions: “For those who doubt, I suggest they try it. Even if it is a placebo, there’s no harm. But I’ve seen the profound effects it has had on myself and my patients.”

She acknowledged the important role of conventional medicine, particularly in emergency situations requiring urgent care. “In life-or-death situations, I would choose medical treatment,” she stated.

However, Khan emphasised the issues surrounding the long-term use of pharmaceuticals, which often come with side effects detrimental to overall health. “While immediate care is vital, long-term reliance on pharmaceuticals can harm our well-being,” she explained.

Khan sees homeopathy as a complementary and alternative approach, particularly for rehabilitation after emergency health events. For instance, it can help individuals address the emotional roots of their conditions— such as grief or stress related to life experiences— promoting both emotional release and physical wellness.

Homeopathic remedies are derived from natural sources—plants, minerals, and animals—affirming a holistic perspective of health, where emotional well-being is key.

Khan argued that hidden emotions can manifest as physical ailments. “Homeopathy helps you release these emotions the way God intended,” she asserted, underlining the significance of addressing both physical and emotional aspects of health.

In today’s fast-paced world, Khan pointed out the nutritional void in many diets, exacerbated by processed foods filled with preservatives and sugars. This poor nutrition, combined with lifestyle stressors, contributes to a decline in physical and emotional health. “Our gut health is being compromised, and unresolved emotional traumas lead to higher levels of depression,” she lamented.

Khan believes that healing is a journey, facilitated by acknowledging and processing emotions.

“Healing involves feeling; you must confront your emotions to promote wellness,” she stressed. She learned through her own experiences, that anger could reveal areas in her life needing boundaries and self-respect.

The approach taken in homeopathy involves a comprehensive understanding where practitioners like Khan gather detailed patient’s health history, key life events, and current symptoms. Remedies are then tailored to the individual’s unique experiences, even when symptoms appear similar across individuals.

Khan assured that homeopathic remedies are safe, natural, and devoid of harmful chemicals. She highlighted instances where children consuming entire packages of remedies experienced no negative effects.

“Homeopathy is distinct from supplements and herbs; I incorporate nutrition and lifestyle modifications alongside homeopathic treatments to optimise health outcomes,” she explained.

However, the journey to recovery can be challenging, particularly for those accustomed to instant relief. “Many patients expect immediate results, forgetting that healing chronic illnesses takes time. I remind them that it took time to reach this state of ill health, and reversing the damage will require patience,” Khan shared.

Her advice for anyone considering homeopathy? View it as an investment in yourself—a commitment to a holistic approach that honours both mental and physical health. “Health is wealth; without it, all material possessions lose value,” she said.