Homeopathic Provings: Why Do I Feel Worse Before I Feel Better?

According to the National Center for Homeopathy, the definition of homeopathy is “A system of medicine that is based on the Law of Similars.”  What does this mean? It means that the remedy that can, in large doses, cause the symptoms you're suffering with, can also (in theory) cure them in tiny doses.

Here is an example: Let’s assume you have developed a severe rash.  Let’s also assume you have taken a prescribed medication to get rid of it.  Suddenly you experience side effects from this medication and research its ingredients.  Now, let’s assume once again that your spouse has a terrible cold.  The ingredients in the medication you took for the rash will get rid of the cold, provided it is prepared by a homeopathic professional and given in a small dose.  This is the Law of Similars.

If you have engaged in homeopathic remedies and found that you feel worse before you feel better, this is called  'proving' and it means that the medicine is working in the body to affect a cure. Unlike conventional medicines, homeopathy remedies often act first on the emotional symptoms of the person, before they cure the physical ones.  In essence, it is the opposite of traditional medicines. They also work from deep to shallow, meaning that the cure will come from deep in the body system, and work on the skin last. This is also opposite from the way conventional drugs work. These often push illness deeper into the body.

Thus, the reason you may feel worse after utilizing a homeopathic remedy may be because it's working on you. With most prescription medications, the doctor will tell you to continue to take the medication even though you are feeling better. With homeopathic remedies, the opposite is true.  Once you are feeling better and the symptoms are improving, stop the remedy.  Your body can take over at this point. If the first remedy you try doesn’t help you, try another after taking a careful study of your symptoms (it's best to write all your symptoms down on paper, including emotional ones.) You will feel better, but often only after you feel worse.

Recommended: The Complete Homeopathy Handbook