Homeopathy: Emotional Support for Cancer
How homeopathic remedies can help with shock and grief
Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event, and while none of us can truly be prepared for it, we often know someone who has gone through this journey.
Homeopathy is a gentle and non-invasive natural therapy that offers support and can be valuable in managing the emotional and physical aspects of a cancer diagnosis.
Learn what homeopathy is, how it works and which homeopathic remedies can be used to address the emotional and physical symptoms that may arise during such a challenging time.
What is Homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a holistic approach to health that utilises homeopathic remedies to stimulate the body’s innate healing abilities. In essence, it works on the principle of “like cures like,” where a substance that can cause certain symptoms in a healthy person is used to treat similar symptoms in someone who is unwell. These remedies, prepared through a unique process of potentisation, involve serial dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking) to enhance their energetic properties while minimising toxicity.
How does Homeopathy work?
Homeopathy operates on the belief that health is a state of balance, and disease is a result of an imbalance or disturbance within an individual. The remedies are carefully selected to match a person’s unique physical and emotional symptoms, thereby addressing the underlying causes of their condition.
It acknowledges that each person is different and may respond differently to the same illness or emotional stress. Therefore, the treatment is highly individualised. Homeopaths consider the person as a whole, taking into account not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and mental aspects.
Homeopathic remedies are made from natural substances such as plants, minerals and even some animal sources. These substances are highly diluted to the point where they contain only the energetic imprint of the original substance, making them safe and non-toxic.
Homeopathy for emotional and physical support
Receiving a diagnosis of any kind, be it the end of a relationship or the shocking news of a medical condition, can have a profound emotional impact. Homeopathy considers an individual’s emotional state when determining the most appropriate remedy.
Here are some homeopathic remedies that be used to can address varying emotional responses to difficult news.
Upon receiving a diagnosis
Aconite: Coping with sudden shock
Aconite is a remedy suitable for individuals experiencing intense fear, panic and catastrophic thoughts following a sudden shock. It is particularly effective in cases of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Gelsemium: Overcoming physical and emotional reactions
Gelsemium helps when the physical response to bad news includes symptoms like a queasy stomach, weak knees, body tremors and a trembling voice. This remedy can also aid those dealing with anticipatory anxiety, including stage fright or exam anxiety.
Ignatia: Managing initial grief
Ignatia is beneficial when a person reacts to bad news with either minimal or alternating emotional responses, including hysterical crying followed by emotional numbness. Individuals in an “Ignatia state” may experience a lump in the throat and frequent sighing. This remedy is particularly suitable for addressing grief’s initial stages.
Supporting cancer treatment symptoms
Homeopathy excels when it addresses an individual’s unique set of symptoms with a matching remedy. Cadmium sulph is a commonly used remedy that can alleviate chemotherapy and radiation side effects such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss, extreme exhaustion and weight loss. This single remedy can address multiple symptoms simultaneously.
Research supports the use of homeopathy in cancer treatment, providing assurance of its safety and effectiveness. A Cochrane review found no serious side effects or interactions when homeopathy was used to manage the adverse effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This study also highlighted the benefits of homeopathic remedies like Belladonna and X-ray in relieving radiodermatitis, a skin reaction caused by radiation. These remedies were found to be more effective than placebos and conventional medicine.[1]
Dosage of homeopathic remedies
While you can safely use homeopathic remedies for certain home-based needs, seeking support from a qualified homeopath is often the best approach for personalised treatment. The experience and expertise of a qualified homeopath can guide you in finding the most suitable remedy and required dosage for your unique situation.
To learn more about homeopathy and how to use homeopathic remedies, take a look at:
Zoe Scanlan – Homeopathy Course Director
