Homeopathic medicine was developed in the late 18th century and is based on the principle that "like treats like." This means that a substance that causes certain symptoms in a healthy person can cure a sick person of those same symptoms by stimulating the body's natural defenses. Homeopathy also employs a certain contradiction; the substance is diluted so much that it becomes virtually immeasurable. The more dilute the substance, the more powerful it becomes. Note that some homeopathic remedies are derived from plants that, if taken whole, are toxic. Never mistake an herbal remedy for a homeopathic product. Homeopathic remedies are used by a number of practitioners, and are available at natural product retailers and some mainstream drugstores.

PREGNANCY

Morning sickness: Try Nux vomica when nausea is worse in the moming and you are overly sensitive to odors, noise, and light. If you feel nauseous throughout the day and cannot keep food down, try Ferrum. If nausea is worse at night, accompanied by an aversion to warm foods and drinks, Pulsatilla may help. Breast tenderness: Bryonia may relieve breast tenderness and inflammation accompanied by irritability, anxiety, or fear. Conium maculatum is useful for breast tenderness and swelling. Hemorrhoids: Nux vomica is useful if you suffer from hemorrhoids, accompanied by alternating diarrhea and constipation, irritability, and the desire to be alone. If you experience hemorrhoids and indigestion, try Sulphur.