Clinical Definition

Homeopathic medicine is a system of alternative medicine based on the theory that utilizing potentiated substances, which in larger amounts would cause illness in healthy people, will allow or stimulate the body to heal itself. Homeopathic medicines are often made from plants and minerals and are used to treat a wide variety of diseases.

The Food and Drug Administration regulates strength, quality, purity and packaging, but not the effectiveness or safety of homeopathic remedies.

In Our Own Words

Homeopathy involves using diluted or small doses of certain substances to treat various illnesses. The theory behind homeopathic remedies is that certain substances, which in high doses may cause sickness, may also treat illness when given in very small amounts.

Homeopathic treatment is considered alternative or complementary treatment. Normally, medication goes through a careful process in order to determine its effectiveness and safety. Although it is used by some to treat a wide variety of symptoms, homeopathic remedies do not go through the evaluation process of conventional drugs.