Homeopathy: A Comprehensive Review of Efficacy, Mechanisms, and Controversies

Year : 2025 | Volume : 12 | Issue : 01 | Page : 25-32
    By

    Mohd. Wasiullah,

  • Piyush Yadav,

  • Ashfak Ali,

  1. Principal, Department of Pharmacy, Prasad Institute of Technology, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
  2. Academic Head, Department of Pharmacy, Prasad Institute of Technology, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
  3. Scholar, Department of Pharmacy, Prasad Institute of Technology, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Homeopathy is a widely used alternative medical system based on principles established by Samuel Hahnemann, including “like cures like” and potentization Despite its popularity, homeopathy remains controversial due to the highly diluted nature of its remedies, which often contain no detectable molecules of the original substance. This article provides a comprehensive review of the clinical efficacy, proposed mechanisms, and ongoing controversies surrounding homeopathy Clinical studies yield mixed results, with some trials reporting benefits for conditions like allergies and anxiety, while others find no difference from placebo. Proposed mechanisms, such as the “memory of water” and nanoparticle theories, lack consistent empirical support and face scientific skepticism. Additionally, ethical and regulatory concerns arise due to misleading claims, risks of delaying conventional treatment, and questions about resource allocation. While some patients report satisfaction with homeopathic care, likely influenced by the placebo effect and therapeutic consultation experience, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy remains insufficient. The review concludes with a call for rigorous research and clear regulatory policies to ensure patient safety and informed healthcare choices.

Keywords: Homeopathy, Potentization, Placebo Effect, Like cures like, Nanoparticle.

[This article belongs to Research & Reviews : A Journal of Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy ]

How to cite this article:
Mohd. Wasiullah, Piyush Yadav, Ashfak Ali. Homeopathy: A Comprehensive Review of Efficacy, Mechanisms, and Controversies. Research & Reviews : A Journal of Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. 2025; 12(01):25-32.
How to cite this URL:
Mohd. Wasiullah, Piyush Yadav, Ashfak Ali. Homeopathy: A Comprehensive Review of Efficacy, Mechanisms, and Controversies. Research & Reviews : A Journal of Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. 2025; 12(01):25-32. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjoush/article=2025/view=193835



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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 12
Issue 01
Received 14/12/2024
Accepted 10/01/2025
Published 13/01/2025
Publication Time 30 Days
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