invitation to begin dialog

[James]

This is a general message to all current members of the CAM Caucus to
spread the word about this discussion group which will focus on
research and clinical issues pertaining to homeopathic treatments of
psychiatric disorders. Dr. Pamela Pappas has agreed to host this
group. Dr. Pappas is an integrative psychiatrist based in Arizona. She
is uniquely trained in both allopathic medicine and psychiatry and
homeopathic medicine. Our patients are increasingly using homeopathic
remedies often in the absence of consultation with homeopathic
physicians. As a member of this group you will benefit from Dr.
Pappas' expert comments on homeopathic remedies that are useful for
the range of mental and emotional problems. You will also be able to
enter into dialogs with other psychiatrists who share your interest in
homeopathy.

James Lake, Chair
APA Caucus on Complementary, Alternative and Integrative Medicine

[Pam P]

Thank you, James.

Just for clarity about this group's intent: Many people confuse
'homeopathy' with botanical medicine, naturopathic medicine, flower
essences, or use of other nutritional supplements. This "Homeopathic
Psychiatry" group will mostly focus on Classical Homeopathy, a 200-
year-old system of medicine founded by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann that uses
single medicines ("remedies") made from natural substances to catalyze
overall healing responses.

Unlike botanical medicines or nutritional supplements, homeopathic
remedies are prepared according to the Homeopathic Pharmacopoea of the
United States, and are regulated by the FDA as over-the-counter
drugs. Most professional homeopaths use higher potencies than are
available in health food stores; homeopathic pharmacies may require
prescriptions for these. Though some homeopathic remedies are made
from plants, many are also made from mineral and animal substances as
well.

Many people also are familiar with use of homeopathic remedies for
first aid or acute situations like burns, sprains, bruises, colds,
bladder infections, diarrhea, etc. Homeopathy sees psychiatric
illness as a deeper and more chronic condition, often requiring
professional casetaking as opposed to buying Arnica for a clearly
acute injury, for example.

I look forward to discussing this topic with interested others.
Anyone who wishes can review my web site for more information:
www.drpampappas.com

Best wishes,
Pam Pappas MD
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~