Homeopathy is an alternative or complementary health practice that is promoted for treating or relieving conditions such as anxiety, asthma, and depression. It is based on the principle that “like cures like.”
However, there is not enough reliable scientific evidence to show that homeopathy is effective for treating any specific health condition. For this reason, it should not replace conventional medical care.
In the United States, homeopathy is considered a complementary or alternative health practice. It should be used only alongside, rather than instead of, conventional medical treatment, as there is no reliable scientific evidence that it is effective for treating any specific health condition.
Uses and benefits
Homeopathy may be used as a complementary approach for several health conditions. The most common include:
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Asthma or bronchitis
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Sinusitis or the flu
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Cough
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Inflammatory conditions
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Dengue
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Depression or anxiety
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Excess weight
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), there is little evidence to support homeopathy as an effective treatment for any specific health condition. It should not be used in place of proven medical treatment, especially for serious conditions such as childhood diarrhea, malaria, tuberculosis, cancer, HIV/AIDS, or dengue.
In these cases, the treatment recommended by a healthcare provider should be followed.
How it works
Homeopathic medicine is based on the belief that good health depends on maintaining a balanced vital energy and that illness can develop when this balance is disrupted. It therefore considers the person as a whole rather than focusing only on a specific disease.
Homeopathy also follows the principle that “like cures like.” This means using very small amounts of substances from animal, plant, or mineral sources that, in larger amounts, are believed to cause symptoms similar to those being treated.
According to homeopathic theory, these substances are thought to stimulate the body’s natural defenses, support self-healing, and restore balance. However, these effects have not been confirmed by reliable scientific evidence.
How homeopathics are prepared
Substances used in homeopathy are repeatedly diluted and shaken in a process known as potentization or dynamization. This practice is based on the “law of infinitesimals,” which claims that a substance becomes more potent as it is diluted.
Many homeopathic products are diluted to the point that little or none of the original substance remains. However, some products may contain measurable amounts of active ingredients, which can cause side effects or interact with medications.
What to expect
A homeopathy appointment may include questions about symptoms, family medical history, lifestyle, and general well-being. However, the practitioner’s training and qualifications can vary, and not all homeopathic practitioners are licensed healthcare providers.
The practitioner may also ask how the symptoms affect daily life and discuss physical sensations, emotional reactions, personal concerns, and significant life events.
Homeopathy appointments may last 30 minutes or longer because practitioners often ask detailed questions about a person’s health and personal experiences.
Based on this assessment, the practitioner may recommend an individualized homeopathic product and provide instructions on its dilution, dose, schedule, and duration of use.
Contraindications for use
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), no homeopathic products are FDA-approved for any health condition, and they should not replace care from a licensed healthcare provider.
Although many homeopathic products are highly diluted, some may contain active substances that can cause side effects or interact with medications. A healthcare provider should always be informed about any homeopathic products being used.
Children, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, older adults, and people with serious or chronic health conditions should speak with a healthcare provider before using a homeopathic product. Medical care should never be delayed in favor of homeopathy.