Homeopathy, around since 1796 is a system created by Samuel Hahnemann, based on his doctrine of like cures like (similia similibus curentur) and the law of similars. A substance that causes the symptoms of a disease in healthy people would cure similar symptoms in sick people. Homeopathic medicines consist of very small doses of natural substances that can stimulate the body's inherent self-healing response without side effects. Homeopathic remedies restore balance to a person's vital life force so that the body can correct imbalances causing symptoms and begin to function as it should, free of the symptoms of illness.A variety of homeopathic med­icines can be used to treat someone suffering from the wide range of symptoms associated with depression. Because treatment is highly individualized to the needs of each person, the homeopathic medicines used may be different for each person. Depending on the severity of depression and the presence of other medical conditions, homeopathic remedies may be used alone or along with herbs or conventional prescription drugs.Homeopathic remedies are best prescribed by a practitioner who has extensive training in homeopathy and experience in treating depression. The practitioner will conduct an extensive interview with a patient, identify potential remedies, and closely monitor a patient's progress until the person is well.If you're suffering with depression, talk with your health practitioner about homeopathic treatment.For more on homeopathy click here.

RESOURCES

• Cody, G.W. & Hascall, H., "The History of Naturopathic Medicine: The Emergence and Evolution of an American School of Healing" in Pizzorno, J.E. & Murray, M. T. Textbook of Natural Medicine (2013). p. 37.
• Lange, A. & Gaylord, S.A., "Homeopathy" in Pizzorno, J.E. & Murray, M. T. Textbook of Natural Medicine (2013). p. 314-323.
• National Center for Homeopathy.
• "Dealing with depression - Safe, effective ways to beat the blues."