Homeopathy
Some consider homeopathic medicine as a placebo, with no real scientific basis, but others have found it effective. It has been used for over 200 years and is popular in Germany (where it originated), India and other European countries. In recent years, this treatment has become popular in North America also along with other alternate medicine systems.
Unlike conventional medicines, there are few side effects of homeopathic medicines. The homeopathic doctor considers both the patient’s individual traits as well as the medical conditions before prescribing a particular medicine. More than 2000 remedies for various ailments are available today.
Most homeopathic medicines are cheaper than allopathic medicines. However, the doctor will specify some restrictions on diet and lifestyle, which the patient should adhere to , if the medicines are to be effective. Alcohol, white sugar, coffee, menthol, camphor, eucalyptus, and black pepper should avoided as they can have adverse effects.
Homeopathic medicines are made from minerals, botanical extracts, and several other sources. They are then dissolved in water, alcohol or milk water solution and diluted till the desired concentration is reached. However, some skeptics say that by diluting the medicine, its effectiveness will be reduced. For medical emergencies however, conventional medicines act quickly and are effective.