Why are there remedies made from conventional medicines?
Updated: 22 hours ago
You may have come across homeopathic remedies made from conventional medicines and wondered why they exist — or whether they can be used instead of the medicines themselves.
In this article, I explain why some homeopathic practitioners use these remedies, including the concepts of isopathy and tautopathy, and why they should not be regarded as substitutes for prescribed medication.
I often hear customers at pharmacies asking,
``My doctor prescribed a medicine, but I don't want to take it, so I want a remedy made from the same medicine. How should I take it?''
The customer also mentioned,
``I found it on the pharmacy's remedy list.''
It's important to note that while there are homeopathic remedies made from medicines, they are not meant to replace your medication.
It is used by homeopaths for special purposes.
Homeopathy operates based on the principle of ``Like Cures Like,'' which means that ``substances with similar symptoms can cure those symptoms.''
It is important to understand that homeopathic remedies made from medicines are not intended to replace prescribed medication or to guide someone to stop or reduce their medication.
It’s important to avoid this mistaken idea, as it can be very dangerous.
If you are concerned about a medicine you are taking, including possible side effects, speak with your doctor, pharmacist or other appropriate healthcare professional. A homeopathic consultation can be considered separately if you would also like to explore your individual experience and symptoms from a homeopathic perspective.
#1 - What is Isopathy?
The term isopathy comes from the Greek word isos, meaning “equal” or “same”.
In homeopathic practice, isopathy refers to an approach in which a remedy is prepared from the same substance, or a related substance, that is considered to be associated with a particular health problem.
Examples sometimes discussed in isopathy include substances such as bacteria, viruses or allergens such as pollen, wheat or gluten.
Isopathy is a particular approach within homeopathy, and different practitioners may use or interpret it in different ways.
#2 - What is Tautopathy?
The term tautopathy comes from the Greek word tauto, meaning “the same”.
In homeopathic practice, tautopathy refers to the use of a remedy prepared from a medicine, drug or other substance that a person has previously been exposed to.
It is sometimes considered when a practitioner is exploring an individual's symptoms and health history in relation to previous exposure to a particular substance.
Tautopathy is a specific approach used by some homeopathic practitioners, and it is not intended to replace prescribed medication or medical treatment.
#3 - When might these remedies be considered?
Whether an isopathic or tautopathic approach is considered depends on the individual and the context in which their symptoms have developed.
A homeopath may take into account the person's symptoms, health history and any relevant exposure to medicines or other substances when considering whether this approach is appropriate.
These remedies are not selected simply because someone has taken a particular medicine, and they should not be regarded as substitutes for prescribed medication.
What is “Homeopathic Detox”?
“Homeopathic detox” is a term used within some homeopathic approaches. It is associated with the work of the late Dutch homeopath Dr Tinus Smits, who developed an approach known as CEASE (Complete Elimination of Autistic Spectrum Expression) Therapy.
Ton Jansen, a Dutch homeopath who studied with Tinus Smits, has also promoted an approach known as “Homeopathic Detox Therapy” and has taught variations of this approach to homeopaths.
The way this approach is understood and used can vary between practitioners and according to the individual. If you are considering this type of homeopathic approach, it is important to discuss it with a qualified homeopath and to have your individual circumstances taken into consideration.
#4 - What should you know before considering these remedies?
It is important to distinguish homeopathic remedies from prescribed medicines and not to use a homeopathic remedy as a substitute for necessary medical treatment.
A 2009 Case in Yamaguchi, Japan
In 2009, a case in Yamaguchi, Japan, involving a baby who did not receive vitamin K2 and subsequently died from vitamin K deficiency bleeding led to a compensation lawsuit against the midwife involved. The case was reported in connection with the use of homeopathy, and the Japan Midwives Association subsequently stated that homeopathic remedies cannot replace vitamin K2 syrup.
This case is an important reminder that homeopathic remedies should not be used as substitutes for essential medicines or prescribed medical treatment. If you are taking prescribed medication or have concerns about your health, please consult an appropriate healthcare professional.
#5 - Conclusion...
The use of remedies made from medicines is a specific area within some homeopathic approaches, and it should not be confused with replacing prescribed medication.
If you are considering this type of approach, it is important to discuss your individual circumstances with an appropriately trained practitioner and to continue to seek appropriate medical care for any health concerns.
If you are wondering whether this approach may be relevant to your own experience, it is important not to choose or use a remedy made from a medicine simply because it corresponds to a medication you have taken.
A homeopathic consultation provides an opportunity to talk through your symptoms, health history and your individual experience before considering whether homeopathy may be appropriate for you.
If you would like to discuss your situation with me first, you are welcome to book a free 15-minute introductory chat.
Love and gratitude
Hiroko
Reference:
Watson.I. (2004). A Guide to the Methodologies of Homeopathy. Revised Edition. Totnes, Dexon, England. Cutting Edge Books.
Smits.T. (2010). Autism Beyond Despair ,CEASE Therapy, Homeopathy has the answers. Emryss Publishers.
Japan Midwives Association. (2022). Statement on Homeopathy. Japan Midwives Association, 30 November 2022.
Nikkei Medical. (2010). [Article concerning the 2009 Yamaguchi case involving homeopathy and vitamin K2]. Nikkei Medical.
