Answer:

According to the World Health Organization, homoeopathy, which was developed by German doctor Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843), is one of the most widely practised forms of alternative medicine in the world.

According to homoeopathic theory, the use of highly diluted forms of natural substances, such as herbs, minerals and animal extracts — which at full strength would actually cause the symptoms you're trying to treat — trigger your body's ability to heal itself.

Homoeopathy takes the view that each individual's unique make-up determines which ailments they are susceptible to and which symptoms are more likely to occur. Therefore, a homoeopath will assess not only your symptoms but also your appearance and manner, your mood and state of mind, and your personal circumstances.

Homoeopathy is used to treat a wide range of conditions: for example aconite (blue monkshood) for colds, allium (garlic) for colds; arnica (leopard's bane) for back pain, sprains, and nosebleeds; calcarea (calcium carbonate, from oyster shells) for indigestion, constipation and eczema; and rhus tox (poison ivy) for arthritis, sciatica, tinnitus and children's fevers.

Most homoeopathic remedies have been in use for more than 100 years, and there is considerable research that supports their safety and efficacy. The report you read may have been concerning the recall by the US Food and Drug Administration of a homoeopathic cold remedy called Zicam, following reports that some people had lost their sense of smell after using it.

Zicam contains a small amount of zinc gluconate, which is found in a variety of cold remedies, both homoeopathic and conventional. At this point, it is not absolutely clear whether the product or one of its ingredients was responsible, with some experts saying that a cold or flu can itself cause loss of smell.

In the meantime, it makes sense to consult an accredited homoeopath rather than attempt to self-prescribe. Visit the Australian Homoeopathic Association (www.homeopathyoz.org) to find a practitioner near you, and always let your doctor know what natural medicines and supplements you are taking.

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