| Writer and ecologist Rachel Carson grew up not far
from where I live. In her 1962 book Silent Spring, she
warned about the effects of pesticides and called for new policies
to protect humans, animals and the land. A lot of water has gone
under the bridge since then, but not much has changed.
In 1999, Consumer’s Union in the U.S. reported that a single
serving of some fruits and vegetables exceeded the toxic level of
pesticides set by the government.1 This was based on an analysis
of 27,000 food samples. Apples were found to have the second highest
level, negating the old expression, “An apple a day keeps
the doctor away”.
Farm workers who apply pesticides and those who work in the fields
are also exposed to dangerous chemicals. These substances can also
poison ground water, harm wildlife and kill pest predators and bees.
The final insult is that these chemicals cost tens of billions worldwide
and drive up the cost of produce.2
Genetically modified plants are not the answer, as they open a
Pandora’s box of other problems. Most genetically engineered
crops are created to make plants resistant to herbicides, allowing
even more herbicides to be used. In addition, since GM seed is patented,
the farmer no longer owns the fruits of his own labor.
Alternatives exist for a sustainable agriculture that would allow
us to produce healthy food without damaging the ecosystem. Organic
and Biodynamic farming methods use manures, composting, crop rotation
and biological pest control in place of chemicals and synthetic
fertilizers. One method of biological pest control uses natural
enemies to control insects and weeds.
In this issue we explore yet another option, Agrohomeopathy, which
has the potential to transform agriculture, preserve the land and
wildlife, and save billions in costs.
We interview V.D. Kaviraj, author of Homeopathy for Farm and
Garden. He’s one of the pioneers of this nascent science,
who’s travelled the world and spent years researching how
to heal plants with homeopathy. He gives us insights into prescribing
for plants, plant miasms, using remedies instead of pesticides and
herbicides, and how all this could create a new economy.
We also interview Mark Moodie, a long time proponent of Agrohomeopathy
who has set up an interactive website with a materia medica and
repertory for plants. Readers can add their own research to this
collective effort.
In this issue you’ll find numerous articles on Agrohomeopathy
by researchers such as Fabricio Rossie, Radko Tichavsky , Glen Atkinson
and Dr. Niurka Menses Moreno. You’ll also get to preview V.D.
Kaviraj’s new book, Agrohomeopathy, Symbiotic Relationships.
You’ll learn from Dr. P. Devokta that Nepal had a homeopathic
hospital as early as 1953, has a homeopathic medical college and
even clinics in remote areas.
There are cases, cartoons, Tips and Secrets, a book review, Elaine’s
famous quiz and much more. Find a comfortable chair, a cup of cocoa
and enjoy this issue with us. Later, write editor@hpathy.com
and let us know what you think.
(1) http://www.consumersunion.org/food/pestny899.htm
(2) http://www.epa.gov/oppbead1/pestsales/01pestsales/sales2001.htm
Alan V. Schmukler
Associate Editor
Homeopathy 4 Everyone |