Responding to Terrorism Homeopathically

June 21, 2006

by Todd Rowe MD, MD(H), CCH DHt

How can we as an organization and as a homeopathic community respond to terrorism? Since the events of September 11th, the NCH has been working closely with the homeopathic community to prepare a meaningful and measured response.

Homeopathy has much to offer in times of crisis. There is a rich tradition of homeopathy's effectiveness in treating epidemic diseases, chemical exposure, shock and stress. Preparation, avoiding fear, education, the formation of an emergency response team and political action are some of the keys for individuals and the homeopathic community to respond to the threat.

• Preparation: It is vital to be prepared for what may come. This means not simply reacting to crises as they occur but being proactive. Many have described the events of the last few months as a loss of innocence. It is tempting to react to these events by wanting to recover this innocence and be in denial about the state of the world. Individually, preparation means finding a good homeopathic practitioner to work with in times of crisis and either purchasing or having quick access to a homeopathic pharmacy or kit of homeopathic remedies.
• Avoiding Panic: In the last week, I have seen two patients in my practice who are taking antibiotics prophylactically for potential anthrax exposure. Both are experiencing significant side effects. I also have several patients who are terrified and refuse to leave their homes, for fear of being attacked. Some are responding to the current crisis with panic and hysteria. The Internet is full of books and products capitalizing on this fear. It is important to remember that the greatest enemy in terrorism is not a particular biological or chemical agent but fear itself.
• Education: Fear is often ameliorated by education. It is important for each of us to educate ourselves. The media is full of material on the subject of terrorism, some of which is valuable and some of which is not. Little has been said about alternative approaches to post traumatic stress, epidemic diseases and chemical attacks. This NCH web site is here to address these issues. The site is addressed to both the general public and to homeopathic practitioners. In addition, we will be featuring articles in Homeopathy Today, the NCH's monthly magazine, as well as having talk(s) addressing these issues at our Annual Conference. Most importantly, we need to continue getting the message out to the public and governmental agencies of the efficacy of homeopathy in crisis situations.

Most importantly, these efforts require a community effort. Homeopathy has much to offer in the current crisis. It is an opportunity for us to join together for the betterment of our communities, nation and the world.

Published in Homeopathy Today