Homeopathy in veterinary medicine: myth, placebo or underestimated therapy?Between the tradition and future of Tanja Schneewind
Alps. Opinions on homeopathy fluctuate between categorical rejection and unrestricted enthusiasm. In fact, as is so often the case, the answer is more in a balanced middle ground. Animal owners are increasingly awareness of homeopathy as an alternative treatment method. For skeptics it is pure placebo, for others an underestimated form of therapy that can provide valuable impulses for animal health.
What exactly is homeopathy?
Homeopathy goes to the German doctor Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) Back, which formulated the principle “Similia Similibus Curentur” – “similar things may be healed by similar things” at the end of the 18th century. Fabrics that can cause symptoms in high dose are used in a strongly diluted form to support the body in self -healing. The choice of means is decisive, this results from the holistic view: in focus is not the disease alone, but the animal as an individual with all its peculiarities.
In homeopathy, many only think of small white beads – the famous globules. In fact, the method also includes drops, tablets or ointments.
Directions in homeopathy
There is also not only the best -known form, “classic homeopathy” based on Hahnemann, and significantly shaped by James Tyler Kent (1849-1916), an American doctor who developed the teaching theory.
The “genuine homeopathy”, which is strictly based on the teachings of Hahnemann, is a further direction in homeopathy, as is “clinical homeopathy”, in which the patient's entire clinical picture is not taken into account, but only individual symptoms are treated.
“Homotoxicology” is a further development based on Hans-Heinrich-Reckeweg (1905-1985). Their focus is on the expression of harmful substances (toxins) to support the self -healing powers in this way.
Placebo effect in animals
Critics often indicate that homeopathy only works through the placebo effect. But animals do not know whether they get a sugar ball or a conventional medicine and have no expectations. So how can you explain the effect?
First of all, it is undisputed: Animals are also noticeable to homeopathic remedies. Many owners report that symptoms in their four -legged friends significantly let up, even without the animals knowing what they got. Even in farm animals, for example in cattle or horse keeping, homeopathic applications show effects that are difficult to explain with pure suggestion or with the Caregiver placebo effect. With a caregiver placebo, it is assumed that the effect of the agent does not use the remedy itself, but by the expectation and behavior of the holder.
Of course, it is possible that the positive setting of the owner indirectly plays a role. Anyone who is convinced of helping their animal often deals with him more loving, attentive and more calmly. This sensitive behavior can actually support the healing process – an aspect that does not devalue homeopathy, but complements. Because the interaction of care, observation and gentle medicine creates a holistic healing environment.
Typical areas of application in veterinary medicine
Homeopathic remedies are used in practice for a wide range of complaints:
- Acute injuries such as bruises, sprains or small wounds.
- Digestion disorders in dogs and cats, from diarrhea to flatulence.
- Skin problems such as eczema or itching.
- Stress and anxiety, such as thunderstorms, fireworks or visiting the vet.
- Support in chronic diseases, for example in the joint complaints of older animals.
Precisely because the funds are well tolerated and have hardly any side effects, they are also suitable for sensitive animals or for the long -term accompaniment of chronic suffering.
Bridge between conventional medicine and naturopathy
Homeopathy in veterinary medicine stands at the interface between traditional healing knowledge and modern animal husbandry. While scientific studies have not yet answered all questions, the practice convinces with countless positive experience reports. More and more veterinarians and therapists integrate homeopathic elements into their work – not as a replacement, but as a complement to classic conventional medicine.
Serious illnesses belong in the hands of a veterinarian. In many cases, however, homeopathic remedies can use conventional medical treatments, accelerate healing courses and improve the well -being of the animals.
A win for dogs and owners
No matter how you stand for homeopathy: the biggest advantage is that it sharpens the view of the animal as a whole. Instead of just fighting symptoms, the focus is on the entire well -being. For dog owners, this means: more mindfulness, more observation and a more intensive relationship with the four -legged companions. And if health, joie de vivre and harmony are encouraged – all the better.
Conclusion
Homeopathy in veterinary medicine is neither pure myth nor a panacea. It is a gentle addition that classic veterinary medicine cannot replace but can enrich. For dog owners who are open to alternative ways, it offers a way to holistically promote the well -being of their animal – with respect for living beings and trust in the self -healing powers of nature.
The author
Tanja Schneewind, www .THP -SCHNEE Wind .de, is a veterinary practitioner, laser therapist and nutritionist with a focus on dog with a mobile practice in the Alpen/Niederrhein area. It combines individually adapted nutritional counseling with holistic methods such as laser and color light therapy, bioresonance and laser acupuncture. Their focus is on activating the self -healing powers and bringing the dog into balance in the long term. The aim of your work is to treat symptoms and to sustainably promote well -being.
Studies
Ebert, Fanny, randomized, placebo-controlled study to investigate the effects of a homeopathic mastitis therapy for dairy cows, 2017-https: // refu bi um .fu -ber lin .de/h a n d l e/f u b 1 8 8/5 2 0? U m _ s o u r c e = c h a t g p t. Com.
Cayado et al. (2016) Treatment of acute laminitis (laminitis) with homeopathic means – https: // www .thie me -con nect .com/p r o d u c t s/e j o u r n a l s/a b s t r a c t/1 0 1 6/j.