Natural Medicine Glossary: A Complete A to Z Homeopathy Medicine List
By Dr. Peter Klapper Ph.D. Natural medicine emphasizes the importance of tapping into the medicinal properties of natural substances to treat illnesses and strengthen the body. With roots in ancient culture dating back around 5000 years, natural medicine has since branched out into more modern techniques, one of which is homeopathy. Homeopathy has a significantly different approach to natural medicine. However, they still share a few similarities, particularly in using natural substances for healing. Both practices also have a significant number of followers, demonstrated by the growing market share of alternative medicine.Thanks to its effectiveness, more people are trying homeopathy. It helps to know the available homeopathic medicine in the market. Lucky for you, this article provides a complete A-to-Z homeopathy medicine list with the diseases they can treat.A-to-Z List of Homeopathic MedicinesHomeopathy trains the body to fight diseases by administering substances that produce similar manifestations as those diseases. As such, natural substances are an essential part of the practice. Below, we've listed the main ingredients in our homeopathic products to help you determine what works for your disease or condition. AAchillea millefolium Common name: Yarrow Potency: 8CFor centuries, people have found various treatments in yarrow. It contains flavonoids that produce saliva and stomach acids, which can help with digestive problems. Remedies with yarrow can also help with liver disorders like hepatitis and skin conditions like jaundice. Traditionally, it has also been used to dress wounds and fight infections. Aesculus hippocastanum Common name: Horse chestnutPotency: 30CThe horse chestnut has its roots in folk medicine as a remedy for gastrointestinal problems, hemorrhoids, and leg cramps. It has also gained popularity as a treatment for venous insufficiency. Allium sativum Common name: GarlicPotency: 89CBesides its flavor, garlic has been used for its medicinal properties. It contains the enzyme alliinase and alliin, which have a host of therapeutic benefits. Homeopathic medications infused with the plant strengthen the immune system and manage cardiovascular diseases. Aloe barbadensis leaf juice Common name: Aloe veraAloe vera contains many different compounds, enzymes, and vitamins that produce medicinal effects in our bodies. Its succulent leaf contains juice that helps relieve burns, wounds, and inflammation. It also has a laxative effect aiding digestion, especially during constipation. Althaea officinalis Common name: Marsh-mallowPotency: 34CThe roots of common marsh-mallow have been popular as a medicinal herb that helps soothe irritated mucous membranes caused by coughs, asthma, and sore throat. AngelicaPotency: 89CAngelica is a plant genus that relieves nervousness and tension from stress or anxiety. This plant can also stimulate gastric secretion and treat gas. Treating skin conditions with angelica is also possible via topical applications. It's also known to help women with their menstrual problems. Arctium lappa Common name: Burdock rootPotency: 12XThe Burdock root, the most valuable part of the burdock plant, contains the prebiotic inulin, which improves digestion and digestive health. It also contains antioxidants, making it a great addition to a natural skincare routine and a homeopathic remedy for eczema, inflammation, acne, and psoriasis. Arnica montana Common name: ArnicaPotency: 30CArnica has anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a popular remedy for muscle aches, inflammation, and wounds. It also eases joint and back pain and inflammation from insect bites. Avena sativa Common name: OatPotency: 30XWhen taken in excess, oats can cause gassiness and bloating. At the same time, it's an excellent homeopathic treatment for digestive issues, such as constipation and food intolerance. BBerberis vulgaris Common name: BarberryPotency: 10XDue to its antibacterial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties, barberry is a homeopathic medication for fever, cough, depression, and bleeding, among many others. It also heals dental conditions like plaque buildup and gingivitis. CCalendula officinalis Common name: MarigoldPotency: 6XMarigold has antimicrobial properties that make it a popular natural remedy for dermatitis, wounds, and burns. The flower petals also help treat ulcers, upset stomachs, and menstrual cramps. Carduus marianus Common name: Milk thistlePotency: 12CMilk thistle has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. When used as homeopathic medicine, it can ease digestive problems such as gassiness and nausea. It also helps remedy conditions in the liver and gallbladder. Chamomile oilChamomile has an incredibly high number of esters, providing antispasmodic effects that relieve spasms. Its oil is a common substance in homeopathy for acne, eczema, rashes, and scars. It also helps moisturize the skin to avoid dryness and irritation. Coffea cruda Common name: Green coffeePotency: 30CSufficient quantities of coffee act as a stimulant to keep us feeling awake. But in its homeopathic medicine form, it helps treat physical and mental conditions like hyperactivity, insomnia, headaches, and toothaches. EEchinacea angustifolia Common name: EchinaceaPotency: 10XEchinacea is an excellent homeopathic replacement for cold and flu meds, given its antiseptic and antiviral properties that help the body fight against infections and diseases like cold sores and shingles. It can also treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. GGerman chamomilePotency: 30CThe homeopathic uses of German chamomile include reduced swelling, redness, and volatile oil production. As such, it can be an excellent remedy against eczema. It also helps the brain by promoting body relaxation and alleviating anxiety. HHamamelis virginiana Common name: Witch hazelPotency: 30CWitch hazel is commonly applied to the skin to treat itching, ringworm, inflammation, bruises, and insect bites. However, if ingested as hazel water, it helps remedy diarrhea, colds, and tuberculosis. Hydrocotyle asiatica Common name: PennywortPotency: 12CThe pennywort plant has strong antibiotic properties that help with skin conditions. Because of its wound-healing capabilities, it’s an effective homeopathic medicine for psoriasis, leprosy, and eczema. It can also heal diarrhea, fever, and anxiety. Hypericum perforatum Common name: St. John's wortPotency: 8XSt. John's wort has roots in history as a popular neuroactive medication for anxiety and depression. Aside from psychological conditions, it also helps remedy physical afflictions like minor burns. IInula helenium Common name: ElecampanePotency: 55CElecampane's roots and rhizomes treat several conditions, including respiratory issues. As an effective homeopathic disinfectant, it also helps manage inflammation and bacterial infections. Iris versicolor Common name: Purple irisPotency: 12CPurple iris boasts anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it ideal as a remedy for gastrointestinal and digestive issues, such as constipation, bile problems, liver issues, and vomiting. However, it can also relieve skin rashes and other skin conditions. L Lactuca virosa Common name: Wild lettucePotency: 12CWild lettuce is often used in homeopathic pain medication and as a remedy for whooping cough. Thanks to its psychoactive properties, it also helps with poor sleep and anxiety. Lavandula vera Common name: LavenderLavender improves muscle tension and mood and supports the nervous system. Its soothing properties help relieve stress and insomnia, which is particularly beneficial for kids' health and wellness. It is also highly concentrated with linalool, a terpene with antifungal and antimicrobial properties that treat acne and psoriasis. NNiaouli oil Common name: Paperbark Tree Niaouli oil comes from paperbark tea trees and has antiseptic properties. In effect, it's helpful for sanitation, healing wounds, preventing infections, and general first aid treatment. Natrum muriaticum Common name: Sodium chloridePotency: 12XSodium chloride, or table salt, is a popular homeopathic remedy for chronic diseases. It improves bodily functions like balancing electrolytes and acid-base, carrying nutrients into cells, aiding nerve function, regulating blood pressure, and secreting gastric acid. It also protects the body against colds, infections, and fevers. OOcimum Common name: Holy basilPotency: 89COcimum has a host of beneficial properties, including antidiabetic, antifungal, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antimicrobial characteristics. It treats various diseases and conditions, including bronchitis, asthma, malaria, diarrhea, arthritis, and fever. PPassiflora Common name: Wild maracujaPotency: 20CWild maracuja is a climbing, flowering plant that helps manage insomnia, stress, and pain. It has an antispasmodic effect that calms the nervous system. As such, patients often receive wild maracuja before undergoing surgery to reduce anxiety. Pelagorium graveolens Common name: Rose geraniumGiven its high citronellol content, rose geranium is beneficial for toning the skin and preventing acne breakouts. It also helps stop bleeding and treats hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Phytolacca Americana Common name: American pokeweedPotency: 8XWhen administered topically, the American pokeweed can treat joint problems like arthritis and chronic rheumatism. It also has purgative characteristics, so if taken orally, it acts as a laxative and an emetic.Pinus sylvestris Common name: Scots pinePotency: 12XThe leaves of scots pines have expectorant properties for treating colds and bronchitis. Scots pine also helps reduce fatigue and improve men’s testosterone levels. Piper methysticum Common name: KavaPotency: 30CKava, a pepper plant from the South Pacific, affects the central nervous system to remedy certain conditions. For instance, people commonly use it to help manage anxiety, stress, and sleeping problems. RRuta graveolens Common name: RuePotency: 12CRue is often called the “herb of grace” for its numerous medicinal benefits like antioxidant, antiplasmodial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. People commonly use rue to help treat indigestion and skin conditions. SSalvia sclarea Common name: Clary sageClary sage is an effective homeopathic treatment for conditions with a feeling of heaviness or darkness. As such, it’s helpful for healing migraines and managing insomnia. Its gentle scent also reduces stress and anxiety, improving sleep and cortisol levels. Sambucus nigra Common name: ElderberryPotency: 10XElderberries have antipyretic properties, which makes them helpful against the common cold and flu. They also help manage cholesterol levels, keeping the body in tip-top shape. Scutellaria lateriflora Common name: Blue skullcapPotency: 12CBlue skullcap is a herb that can treat psychological disorders, such as hysteria, epilepsy, and nervous tension. It also helps people with insomnia fall asleep soundly. Silicea Common name: SilicaPotency: 10XAs the homeopathic form of silica, silicea helps manage a lack of energy, chills, and irritability. Additionally, silicea is beneficial for people who constantly worry and have anxiety. Solidago Common name: GoldenrodPotency: 10XSolidago has been traditionally used to treat wounds since it has anti-inflammatory properties. Because of this, it can be a topical treatment for gout and hemorrhoids. It also has diuretic properties, which help eliminate excess fluids. This makes them alternative treatments to kidney stones and urinary tract infections. TTaraxacum officinale Common name: DandelionPotency: 6CDandelion's phytochemicals make it an effective homeopathic medicine for urine production problems, viruses, infections, arthritis, and diabetes.Thiosinaminum Common name: Mustard seedPotency: 8CMustard seeds possess antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. They help manage ear problems like tinnitus and vertigo. They likewise dissolve scar tissue, tumors, and lupus. Thuja occidentalis Common name: Northern white cedarPotency: 89CNorthern white cedar can treat warts, cystitis, psoriasis, amenorrhea, and enuresis. It also remedies acute and chronic upper respiratory infections. If you're suffering from athlete's foot, northern white cedar is excellent for natural foot care. Trigonella foenum-graecum Common name: FenugreekPotency: 89CFenugreek helps manage flatulence and has antidiabetic and antiulcer effects. Moreover, it helps boost testosterone and estrogen production in men and women. UUrtica dioica Common name: Stinging nettlePotency: 8CStinging nettle helps with various types of bleeding. It also works as a homeopathic medication for respiratory illnesses, such as asthma and bronchitis, and as an allergy relief medicine for children's allergy relief. VValeriana officinalis Common name: ValerianPotency: 12CMore commonly known as Valerian root, it is a tall plant whose roots and stems can treat insomnia and its symptoms. It also increases the production of GABA in the body, easing anxiety while improving mood and sleep. Verbena Potency: 12CThe parts of verbena that grow above the ground are excellent homeopathic remedies. They can heal gum diseases, sinus inflammation, heart conditions, and depression. Verbena can also be a topical medicine for treating wounds and burns. ZZingiber officinale Common name: GingerPotency: 89CGinger helps alleviate swelling and nausea by targeting the stomach, intestines, and nervous system. It also helps manage menstrual cramps, migraine, and diabetes.Leverage Natural Medicine with HomeopathyHomeopathic reliance on plants and minerals demonstrates its deep roots in natural medicine. While they may share different approaches, both practices aim to maximize the natural environment in promoting health and wellness. Take advantage of nature's abundant medications by learning and practicing homeopathic remedies.Are you in the market for effective natural treatments? Forces of Nature's wide range of homeopathic medicine can protect your body against diseases and illnesses.Check out our shop today!
Learn more
Homeopathy 101: Everything You Need to Know
By Dr. Peter Klapper Ph.D. Modern medicine gets increasingly expensive, making it an essential commodity that not everyone can afford. Since 2014, prescription medication prices have increased by 35%.With the cost of conventional drugs rising each year and more people being mindful of the substances they consume, some are now searching for cost-effective and natural alternatives to help treat their ailments without adverse side effects.Homeopathy is an alternative that fits the bill. This medical system has been around since the 18th century, with many cultures adopting it and praising its holistic approach to treatment and health.As the modern medical market steers toward more natural remedies, there's no better time to consider homeopathy than now.Discover homeopathy's history, principles, and other valuable details in this post.What is Homeopathy?Homeopathy is an alternative medical system that proposes the human body can cure itself. Homeopathic doctors conduct treatments that stimulate the body's healing responses to certain diseases and administer substances that mimic the symptoms of a healthy person.The system presents two theories. The first is "like cures like," a belief that an illness is curable when someone takes medication that produces similar symptoms to healthy individuals. The second is the "law of minimum dose," which asserts that medicine taken in smaller quantities is more potent.Homeopathy offers many benefits. It's a low-cost treatment, a natural remedy, and the key to a healthier lifestyle.A Brief History of HomeopathyHomeopathy dates back to the 18th century, but its practice continues up to this day. Here is a brief history and timeline tracing the origins and growth of homeopathy.The 1790s: The beginning of homeopathyHomeopathy began in the 1790s when German physician Samuel Christian Hahnemann first coined the term.Hahnemann took inspiration from "the law of similars," the pharmacological principle that philosophers— like Paracelsus and Hippocrates—described and different cultures—like the Chinese, Mayans, Greeks, and more—adopted. The physician then organized these ideas to create homeopathy as the modern world knows it.Homeopathy received its namesake from the Greek words "homoios," which means similar, and "pathos," which means suffering.While some are more receptive to homeopathy as a modern alternative treatment, it received much criticism from traditional medical practitioners during its initial conception.Fortunately, homeopathy enthusiasts would champion the method heading into the new century.The 1800s and early 1900s: Homeopathy comes to the United StatesBelievers of homeopathy would continue to support Hahnemann's findings, and in the 1840s, the practice flourished in the United States. By 1844, homeopathy became so widespread that advocates established the American Institute of Homeopathy, becoming the US' first national medical society.Since the general public considered homeopathic treatment more humane than the primitive practices of early modern medicine, homeopathy gained traction with a wider audience.However, as in the early years of this alternative medical system, there were still entities challenging homeopathy's philosophies and accompanying success. In particular, orthodox medical practitioners rejected homeopathy.Nevertheless, homeopathy supporters stood firm, so the system survived and thrived throughout the remainder of the 1800s and entering the 1900s. Unfortunately, due to opposition, the midpoint of the new century proved to be the first major hurdle in homeopathy's continued success.Meanwhile, homeopathy gained a new following in other parts of the world, like Asia and Europe, giving it a new life and audience. Homeopathy remained strong in the succeeding decades due to its newfound popularity. Eventually, the practice would regain its place in the consciousness of American communities.The 1970s: The resurgence of homeopathy in the United StatesWith its popularity reaching new heights in large portions of the world, a new generation of Americans discovered the system, causing the resurgence of homeopathy in the United States.By the mid-1980s, sales of homeopathic medicine increased by 1,000%, solidifying homeopathy's place as a worthy alternative to traditional medicine.Today, homeopathy maintains a strong presence in alternative medicine and will likely continue into a streak of success.7 Principles of HomeopathyHomeopathy treatment abides by specific principles first proposed by its creator, Samuel Hahnemann. While these principles have undergone multiple refinement cycles, the general idea that guides practitioners in utilizing homeopathy's healing capabilities is intact.1. The law of similarsAgain, the law of similars is one of the building blocks Hahnemann used to develop homeopathy as a medical practice. Under this law, a substance capable of producing symptoms in a healthy person can also remove similar manifestations in a sick person.To illustrate the law of similars, we will use onions and hay fever as an example. Hay fever symptoms include a runny nose and watery eyes. Since onions contain a substance that induces the same type of reaction in humans—a runny nose and watery eyes—they are considered a remedy for hay fever under the law of similars.In homeopathy, the treatment for hay fever is called Allium cepa, a homeopathic medicine made from onions with alcohol or water added into the mix to dilute the solution. The preparation would then go through a "potentization" stage, where homeopath professionals shake the mixture to transfer the ingredient's healing properties.2. The law of simplexThe second cardinal principle in homeopathy is the law of simplex or the belief that a patient should only take a single dose of a homeopathic remedy at any given time for it to be effective. The law of simplex discourages multiple doses of homeopathic medicine, regardless if the patient is suffering from various symptoms.The reason for the single-dose rule is that homeopaths believe that multiple doses prevent them from controlling and ensuring a treatment's success. Aside from that, homeopaths believe that administering more than one dose creates more symptoms that may be harmful to the patient.3. The law of minimum dosesThe law of minimum doses is a belief that the lower the dosage, the more effective the treatment. Arndt-Schulz's "law of action and reaction" illustrates this principle, showing that weak stimuli excite physiological activity, but moderate doses and substantial concentrations inhibit and stunt that activity, respectively.This means that homeopathic treatments are not likely to produce adverse side effects often caused by synthetic medication. Minimum doses also prevent the symptoms from aggravating during the course of the treatment.4. The doctrine of drug provingDrug proving is the systematic homeopathic process of acquiring knowledge about the medicine used to treat illnesses. Under the doctrine of drug proving, the treatment undergoes clinical trials on healthy individuals to see if the drug in question can produce the desired reaction or healing properties. These trials also measure the treatment's quality and potency.5. The theory of chronic diseasesAccording to this theory, chronic diseases are not just an accumulation of symptoms but are a complex disease that affects the whole organism, including the physical, mental, and emotional aspects.This principle suggests illnesses that reoccur or re-appear after treatment may be chronic due to disease-producing agents called "chronic miasms." Although besides miasms, other leading causes of chronic diseases include an unhealthy lifestyle, stress, or an autoimmune disorder.Miasms are viruses—like cancer, malaria, AIDS, etc.— harmful to the body. In his studies, Hahnemann categorized miasms into three types: Psora, Sycosis, and Syphilis.Based on the theory of chronic diseases and the role of miasms as the root cause of chronic diseases, homeopathy considers chronic illness symptoms as the body's attempt to heal itself. Homeopaths believe that treating the underlying miasm will alleviate the person's symptoms and cure the disease.6. The theory of vital force Homeopaths believe that spirit-like energy, known as the "vital force," controls the harmony of body functions and dictates an individual's health.Hahnemann determined that a person's vital force reacts against hostile disease-causing forces. When the self-acting or automatic force comes into contact with the opposing ones, it disturbs the person's strength or power and leads to an illness. Meanwhile, a healthy body has an unopposed vital force, supporting the idea that prevention is better than cure.7. The doctrine of drug dynamizationHomeopathy's final core principle is the doctrine of drug dynamization, which highlights the homeopathic medicine preparation process. Alternatively known as potentization, the preparation method entails repeatedly diluting the materials and shaking the mixture forcefully to eliminate any toxins and stimulate the drug's therapeutic effectsThrough drug dynamization, homeopaths believe homeopathic remedies will last longer, work better, and be more potent long-term.Is Homeopathy Safe?Homeopathy is safe and effective, with no side effects for users. If at all, the risks associated with homeopathic drugs are negligible compared to those of an unhealthy lifestyle.Homeopathic remedies undergo a rigorous and specialized preparation process to eliminate chemical toxicity while enhancing their potency. Standard concentrations, like 30C and 200C, go through thorough dilution. Homeopathic medicine manufacturers dilute remedies with 30C potency 30 times at a 1:100 ratio, while 200C variants go through the dilution process 200 times.So, if you're searching for a more natural, accessible, and affordable alternative to traditional medication, homeopathic medicine offers a viable and safe option.What Diseases Can Homeopathy Treat?Qualified homeopathic doctors use homeopathic medicines to treat various diseases, including autoimmune, degenerative, acute, and seasonal ailments, and even menstrual disorders. Many believe there are more illnesses homeopathy can treat, making the practice's healing capabilities endless.Homeopathic doctors treat all diseases differently, as health conditions vary from person to person. After identifying the causes and symptoms, homeopathic doctors manage each case with the proper approaches and prescribe the most effective remedy. The prescription phase is extensive, starting with case-taking, followed by medicine selection and potency determinations.Practitioners of homeopathy believe that accomplishing every step is vital in ensuring that the patient experiences favorable outcomes.The following are some common ailments that homeopathy can cure: cough, cold, and allergies; asthma; influenza; skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, etc.; fungal infections like athlete's foot, nail fungus, ringworm, etc.; cold sores; heartburns; hemorrhoids; varicose veins; gout; pains in the back, joints, muscles, or nerves; and headaches and migraines. Aside from these illnesses, there are also homeopathic treatments for sleep, lack of focus, and stress. If you have a child and are considering homeopathic medicines for their conditions, there are medications safe for the young.With the advances in homeopathy, practitioners will likely develop homeopathic medications to treat more illnesses effectively.What to Expect in a Homeopathic ConsultationHomeopathic consultations vary depending on your needs and the doctor's expertise. However, most visits to a homeopathic doctor involve standard procedures.First, the homeopathic doctor will ask about your sickness and what you want to achieve regarding your health and other lifestyle aspects.They will then inquire about your current and past treatments, pathology results, and diagnosis before proceeding to their formal evaluation. Next, they will investigate further and compare your symptoms to known diseases that exhibit the same traits.Homeopathic doctors will also analyze your broader medical history to get more insight into your condition and determine if underlying problems affect your health. Aside from your medical complaints, homeopathic doctors also routinely ask questions about your mental, emotional, and overall well-being.They may also check your sleeping and eating habits, which are crucial information in homeopathic evaluation. This consultation method aligns with homeopathy's holistic approach to treating illnesses.After the consultation, your homeopathic doctor will prescribe treatment to address your ailment. If more research is necessary, you might need to make new arrangements for your next visit.The Vast Potentials of HomeopathyDespite some pushback in the past, homeopathy has withstood the test of time. The medical system's longevity demonstrates that natural treatment methods have some of the best use cases. With more people discovering its healing capabilities, homeopathy's legacy will only improve over time.Unfortunately, some people who mimic homeopaths offer ineffective treatments that paint the practice in a bad light. When buying homeopathic remedies, it's best to use products only from reputable homeopathic companies like Forces of Nature.Established in 1999, Forces of Nature supports the natural healing of illnesses. As such, our homeopathic experts develop high-quality, FDA-registered, and USDA-Certified Organic remedies for overall health improvement. For all your homeopathic medicine needs, contact us today!
Learn more
6 Types of Drug Reactions
Different types of pharmaceutical drug reactions may all look and feel similar to the untrained eye. However, these effects differ depending on various factors, whether dose-related or due to withdrawal, to mention a few.
Learn more
3 Remarkable Health Benefits of Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a natural way of treating ailments. Read this post to learn more about homeopathic medicine and its benefits.
Learn more
Homeopathic vs. Naturopathic Medicine: What’s the Difference
Alternative medicines have been around for ages. Some, such as homeopathy and naturopathy, remain popular today. These holistic forms of treatment utilize natural substances to boost the body’s healing ability.
Learn more
The Benefits of Using Essential Oils
What exactly are essential oils? While essential oils are a popular form of aromatherapy treatment, you might still feel lost on how they can benefit you after using these oils captured from plants. Don’t worry, we will break it down for you.
Learn more
Homeopathic Medicine - Is It Right for You?
Homeopathy, have you heard of it? This form of alternative medicine, also known as homeopathic medicine, is a method in which practitioners will use a small amount of natural substances (which causes a disease in a healthy person) to treat someone who is ill. And while this type of medical treatment has been around since the 19th century, there is still a lot people don’t know about homeopathy when deciding if it’s the best treatment option for their current ailment.
Learn more
USDA Organic: What Does It Mean When Purchasing A Product?
By Dr. Peter Klapper Ph.D. As you shop at the grocery store and decide between vegetables, you might notice that there is an area solely for organic produce. But what does that really mean? Aren’t most things that come from the earth technically organic?Understanding what makes a product classified as “organic” is important when making your next shopping decision, so let’s dive deeper. When something is classified as USDA organic, you can be assured that the product went through the verified steps between the farm and store that includes federal guidelines addressing several factors such as soil quality, animal raising practices, pest and weed control and the use of additives.This is important to know because a lot of companies will slap “organic” on their products when they in fact haven’t been through the USDA Organic Certification process. The USDA seal cannot be used unless the product has followed the strict standards of production, handling, and labeling.The History of Organic FarmingIn 1940, a farmer by the name J.I Rodale, began providing information about “non-chemical” farming methods through his publication “Organic Farming and Gardening” magazine. He was heavily influential in the development of organic production methods.As time went on, awareness grew around the benefits of organic products and so did an increase in demand. In the 1970s, the rapid growth caused for the organic farming industry to experience a few growing pains, which caused for big players to come together to agree upon the right approach, standards, and regulations.While decisions were made from state to state on what defined “organic,” it was making it hard for consumers to understand what organic meant for their in-state goods vs out of state goods. This sparked a movement that allowed Congress to pass the “Organic Foods Production Act (OFPA)” in 1990 to become a national standard. Once passed, the USDA developed and wrote regulations that were eventually implemented in 2002.Those regulations also broke out USDA organic certification into multiple levels such as: 100% Organic: all ingredients and processing aids must be certified organic Organic: 95% of ingredients are certified Made with Organic: at least 70% of ingredients are certified organic, excluding salt and water. The remaining ingredients are not certified organic but are produced without specifically excluded methods such as genetically modified organisms (GMO), irradiation, or sewage sludge. Products with less than 70% organic ingredients have no USDA label but can list certified organic ingredients on their label. As the organic farming industry continued to grow, various organizations began to take life. The Non-GMO Project was created in 2007 by The Natural Grocery Company in Berkeley, California, and The Big Carrot Natural Food Market in Toronto, Ontario both of which had spent years working to provide their customers with more information about GMOs. After years of research and development, they combined their efforts into the “Non-GMO Project” and “verified butterfly label” with the goal of creating a standardized definition for non-GMO products in the North American food industry.And by 2010, their product verification program reached the marketplace with more than 3,000 verified brands and 50,000 verified products. Today, the Non-GMO Project verified products remain one of the fastest growing sectors in the marketplace and is the most trusted label for GMO avoidance in shoppers.The Difference Between Non-GMO And USDA OrganicWhile it’s clear both non-GMO and organic products certifications are filled with necessary regulations, how are they different?Non-GMONon-GMO is given to products that have not been genetically modified. However, it doesn’t mean that the product is free from over 700 chemicals used in conventional production.USDA OrganicUSDA Organic must demonstrate that they remain compliant with the regulations and certification process. The use of GMOS, ionizing radiation, sewage sludge, synthetic pesticides and fertilizers are prohibited from organic production.So, why is this important for consumers?As we stated before in what it takes for a product to become USDA Organic certified, it means that you can be confident knowing that it won’t include additives and harmful chemicals. It also means that certified organic products are created from plants and naturally occurring ingredients.Research also shows that organic farming practices are better for the environment in terms of soil health, improving water quality and conserving energy.As far as non-GMOs, when you see the Non-GMO Project butterfly certification mark, you can be assured the food you are eating is truly non-GMO. All-in-all, both labels are indications that the product has been tested and passed to meet these standards.
Learn more
Homeopathic Resurgence
By Dr. Peter Klapper Ph.D. Homeopathy has seen recent surges in popularity in America with sales increasing over 20% per year. Some of this growth has stemmed from the fact that medical experts have demonstrated that the right homeopathic remedy can be uncannily effective. Homeopathy has been embraced in Europe and Asia with thousands of doctors prescribing this valuable healing modality to their patience as they know firsthand, it works. Homeopathy was also extraordinarily popular in the USA in the nineteenth century; but it lost ground to at the turn of the century to pharmaceutical drugs, which were more lucrative and afforded its practitioner’s greater political leverage. There was more money in treating symptoms from pharmaceuticals than curing ailments as homeopathy sets out to do. Homeopathy’s current renaissance in the USA is due in part to studies that have brought credence to its long-touted efficacy. Going back to 1997 the British medical journal Lancet reported the results of 89 placebo-controlled studies of homeopathy. It found homeopathic medicines had an average effect 2.45 times greater than placebos. This number also exceeded results of many pharmaceutical drugs. Thus, homeopathic resurgence became a reality. This article from the Washington University School of Medicine further provides a nice background of homeopathic medicines.
Learn more
The Power of Homeopathic Remedies and Medicinal Plants
A key concept to remember with homeopathic remedies and medicinal plants is the diversity of nature. Most medicinal plants are composed of several hundred natural occurring chemicals which have therapeutic properties.
Learn more
Emerging Trends: Homeopathy Gains Ground in American Medicine
The appearance of double-blind studies on homeopathy in American medical journals is becoming more and more common. The fact that homeopathy is making progress in the American medical community and reported in major medical journals is rather groundbreaking.
Learn more
Homeopathy is Nanomedicine
The body has a program for well-being and will always strive to return to health and well-being if given the right stimulus to set the healing process in motion, which homeopathy does so eloquently, and without side effects or drug dependency.
Learn more