What Are Homeopathic Aggravations
One of the most common questions I get from clients using homeopathy is:
It might get worse before it gets better
"Why does it seem like my dog got worse after the remedy?"
It’s a good question—and the answer might surprise you.
In homeopathy, this temporary symptom flare-up is called an aggravation. And believe it or not, it’s often a good sign that the remedy is working.
Let’s walk through what a homeopathic aggravation is, how to recognize it, and how to respond without overcorrecting or giving up too soon.
What Is a Homeopathic Aggravation?
A homeopathic aggravation is a temporary worsening of symptoms that may happen shortly after starting a remedy.
This can look like:
Increased restlessness or anxiety
A flare of skin issues
More pronounced digestive symptoms
The return of an old behavior or physical complaint that had previously resolved
To the untrained eye, it can feel like a setback. But to a homeopath, it often signals that the remedy has hit the vital force—and the body is waking up to do some real healing.
Why Do Aggravations Happen?
Homeopathy works by stimulating the body’s natural healing response. When a remedy matches your dog’s energetic state, it can prompt a noticeable shift.
In some cases—especially with deeper chronic issues or very sensitive animals—the body may temporarily “push” symptoms outward before finding balance.
This is not a side effect. It’s a healing response.
How Long Do Aggravations Last?
For most dogs, if an aggravation happens at all, it’s mild and short-lived—usually lasting a few hours to a few days.
In more sensitive dogs, especially those with chronic illness or emotional trauma, it could last a week or two.
Every dog is different. That’s why we monitor closely and adjust gently as needed.
What If the Remedy Seems Too Strong?
In rare cases, especially with daily low-potency dosing, an aggravation can feel too intense. In these situations, it’s best to:
Pause the remedy immediately
Wait until symptoms calm down
Then consider repeating the remedy in water, using a diluted or “plussed” dose
For highly sensitive dogs, even inhalation/nasal exposure may be enough to maintain healing momentum
Never rush back into daily dosing after an aggravation. Instead, return to a less frequent schedule and observe.
Once your dog starts needing more support again—that’s the time to resume daily dosing, if appropriate.
What Should You Watch For?
A homeopathic aggravation is usually:
A clear intensification of current or old symptoms
Short in duration
Followed by an overall improvement in vitality—energy, mood, sleep, appetite, etc.
If symptoms continue to worsen with no improvement, or if new concerning symptoms appear, that may indicate the remedy isn’t the right match—or that deeper layers need attention.
Top 5 Things to Know About Homeopathic Aggravations
They are not side effects—they’re part of the healing process
Most are mild and temporary
Sensitive dogs may respond best to infrequent or diluted doses
Always pause the remedy if symptoms worsen significantly
Return to regular dosing only after symptoms stabilize
Need Help Navigating an Aggravation?
If your dog seems to be getting worse after starting a remedy, don’t panic. This doesn’t mean you did something wrong—it just means the body is responding.
Let’s walk through it together.