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PubMed2000

Homeopathy. An overview.

BACKGROUND: Homeopathy was founded 200 years ago by Dr Samuel Hahnemann. Although it has been seen by some as quackery, it has found a level of acceptance in the community in general. OBJECTIVE: This article reviews the principles underlying the practice of homeopathy and reviews some of the studies which attempt to understand its validity. DISCUSSION: The theoretical principles of homeopathy derive from clinical observation. There is some research demonstrating efficacy; however, the underlying basis of the discipline has yet to be explained. Much research still needs to be done in order to elucidate its mechanisms of action and to determine its specific place in clinical practice.

Europe↗

PubMed1998

[Homeopathy and the clergy: the portrait of a relationship].

This study traces the attraction that 19th century homeopathy exerted on clergymen of all three major Christian denominations, an appeal which is evidenced by the extensive homeopathic activities of clerical healers and missionaries. Practical considerations, such as the relatively easy acquisition of basic therapeutic skills, combined with and reinforced philosophical and religious preferences for a healing systm that stressed the unique properties of the body and the spiritual force of healing and remedies. The use of homeopathy enabled the clergy, as professional experts in the realm of the supernatural and immaterial, to refute the prevailing "mechanistic" and "materialistic" trends in contemporary academic medicine. Accordingly, some of the clergy arrived at striking syncretisms, supplementing homeopathy with sympathetic or religious healing methods.

History, 19th Century↗

PubMed1999

Veterinary homeopathy: an overview.

Complementary and alternative therapies, including homeopathy, have a definite place in veterinary medicine today. The public is demanding access to a full range of conventional and complementary therapies, and the best scenario is to have all therapies available, for there is a place and a need for all of them in the right situation. In my own practice, I use both alternative and conventional therapies, as well as referring patients to specialists, for services such as ultrasound and surgery. I believe that the wave of the future is to have veterinarians skilled in both complementary and conventional therapies, and to have veterinary practitioners who are well enough educated to be able to treat the majority of their patients, but who are willing to refer to the appropriate "specialist," if the case and the client demand it. Veterinarians are definitely becoming more aware of the need for and showing more interest in alternative medicine. There are currently several associations in North America for veterinarians with an interest in complementary therapies. In 1998, the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) boasted 1400 members, and the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) over 800 (1). There are professional courses in veterinary acupuncture, chiropractic, and homeopathy, all 150-200 hours in length, which provide a good basic understanding of these modalities. In most of these modalities, there is also advanced training. Conventional teaching institutions are recognizing the need to have veterinarians well versed in all aspects of veterinary medicine. Colorado State University has offered elective courses for students and on-site courses for practitioners on alternative therapies for 3 years (1). These are designed to teach veterinarians what the alternative modalities are, whether they are effective, and what it takes to become qualified to practise them. The overriding goal in most veterinarians' minds is to heal animals and provide the best in care, so that animals can live healthy productive lives. Education to keep up with new therapies and medications is paramount to this goal. It follows easily that knowledge of noninvasive treatments with few or no side effects that have the potential to heal animals should be welcomed, and homeopathy, as well as other complementary therapies, fits this description.

Animals↗

PubMed2002

[Hufeland (1762-1836) and homeopathy].

In 1796 homeopathy was born by the publication of an Hahnemann's article in a periodic founded by C. W. Hufeland, a German physician, Professor in Iena, who was friendly with Hahnemann during more of thirty years. This periodic, which defended the experimental philosophy and was devoted to the practical medicine, will be nevertheless the mean instrument to spread Hahneman's ideas until the issue of the Organon in 1810. Also, the thought of Hahneman looks us as built up itself partly in large connection with the ideas of this review, and probably still more with the Hufeland's writings. The prolix author Hufeland published in 1795, 1796, and 1800, at the same time of homeopathy's foundation, three main works that Hahnemann has certainly distinguished. Between 1825 and 1830, Hufeland tried to put himself as an unprejudiced judge of the attacked homeopathy. His pleading, as well as his straight critical remarks is an authentic and right enough testimony, only made a little false by the state of medicine in these days. He put up the controversy at least so high as the today's polemics.

Germany↗

PubMed2005

[What is homeopathy?].

Homeopathy is a curative method whose practice began approximately 200 years ago in Germany. Samuel Hahnemann discovered it and spread its practice rapidly through Europe and the rest of the world. Homeopathy is different in almost all aspects from what may be called "official" medicine, known as allopathy by homeopathic practitioners. The basic principle used in homeopathy consists in applying what is called similia smilibus curantur likes cure likes, or a "similarity law"; that is, all substance are capable of producing in a healthy human a series of ills or symptoms. This same substance used in homeopathic doses, or "infinitesimal doses" in homeopathic parlance, has the capability to cure.

Homeopathy↗

PubMed1992

[Clinical medicine versus homeopathy].

Due to the advance of alternative medicine a critical synopsis by means of the comparison between scientific medicine (clinical medicine) and homeopathy is warranted. The review of studies carried out according to current scientific criteria revealed--at best--a placebo effect of homeopathy. Until now there is no proven mechanism for the mode of action of homeopathy. Sometimes so-called "alternative medicine" prevents effective curative measures. In spite of the justified criticism concerning the technical over-estimation of classical medicine, scientific research should remain the basis of clinical work.

Child↗

PubMedDate not supplied

[Count Henri de Bonneval (1806-1882), practitioner of homeopathy, agronomist and philanthropist].

Count Henri de Bonneval, was born in Bordeaux in 1806, in the line of descent of one of the most ancient French families of noble rank. He was assistant manager of the Strasbourg stud farm in 1830, when Louis-Philippe, an Orleanist, ascended to the throne of the Bourbon Charles X. As several other legitimists, Count Henri refused to take an oath to the new king and prefered to resign his position. Interested in medicine, he was deeply impressed by Hahnemann's Organon der Heilkunst and decided to leave France for KOthen, in Saxony, in order to learn homeopathy directly from its founder Back to France, he defended in Montpellier the first French medical thesis devoted to homeopathy and then opened a consulting room in Bordeaux. He rapidly gained a solid reputation and a large audience as a practitioner of homeopathy. At the same time, Henri acquired the Chateau de Latresne and the 500 acres surrounding land. He renovated and brought up to date the agricultural and wine-producing activities of the estate. The medical doctor soon proved to be an expert agronomist, extending his competence to the famous vineyard Chateau Canon of St. Emilion. Throughout his life, the Count showed notable qualities of philanthropy, materialized at Latresne by the construction of a church and, adjacent to the chapel, a boarding school, two classrooms and shelters for poor or sick old people. At the end of his life, Henri de Bonneval wrote a comprehensive book, that includes the presentation and discussions of the homeopathic methods, some philosophical reflections and personal memories.

Agriculture↗

PubMed1990

[Homeopathy].

Homeopathy has been disputed from the early beginning. The rational basis of homeopathy neither can be established by philosophy nor by natural sciences. On one hand homeopathy is supported by so-called 'empirical physicians', but on the other hand it is usually heavily criticized by physicians who are basing their criticism on natural sciences. 'Healing' is meant to prove the hypothesis of all paramedical people, it can however be easily explained on a rational basis. It is indisputable that paramedical manipulations not only may act by placebo effect but also can appear successful due to the remarkable power of our body for self-healing. If latter plays an important role, especially when there is no time limit for healing. We never tried to convince paramedical ideologists, who are already heavily engaged in paramedical treatment, but it is our aim to reassure with solid arguments colleagues, who have so far been overwhelmed by irrational journalism.

Europe↗

PubMed1986

[Homeopathy and isopathy, science or faith?].

The present paper is the result of a study of the literature investigating the effectiveness of potentiated agents. The object is to supply an answer to the question of the extent to which homeopathy and isopathy have a scientific basis. The most universally accepted requirements which scientific research has to comply with having been enumerated and explained, a number of experimental studies in the fields of homeopathy and isopathy are put to the test of these requirements. An important consideration is the extent to which a scientific approach to these methods of treatment is possible. In addition, the question is asked what can be the background of the increasing popularity of this method of treatment. The conclusion emerges that the literature available does not make it possible to pass a verdict on the question whether homeopathy and isopathy are scientifically justified or not. With the possible exception of one experiment, none of the studies are up to the standards set in every respect.

Animals↗

PubMed1994

[The development of homeopathy in the United States].

After an enormous spread in the United States of America during the 19th century homeopathy had almost completely vanished from the scene by the beginning of the 20th century. For the past two decades, however, it seems once again to experience a kind of renaissance. Major aspects of this development-in terms of medical and cultural history, sociology, politics, and economics-are illustrated on the basis of a general history of homeopathy in the United States. Using original sources, a first attempt is made to reconstruct the history of homeopathy in San Francisco which has some institutional peculiarities that make it unique within the whole country.

History, 18th Century↗

PubMed1993

[Homeopathy: a field of work for the veterinarian].

It is generally known that Homeopathy and other so-called alternative methods of treatment have recently been gaining acceptance. The profession of lay animal practitioner is no longer a rarity in Switzerland. For some, alternative medicine is one phenomenon among others in a saturated health market and thrives on the fact that classical medicine does not yet extend to all areas. For others, the search for alternatives corresponds to a justified demand by the practitioners and denotes an extension of the medical disciplines. The Workshop for Veterinary Acupuncture and Homeopathy (AGVAH) was founded several years ago by veterinarians in Switzerland. It represents the professional interests of its members and upholds their right to practice these forms of therapy. The ensuing debate between classical and alternative medicine questions not only the basis of Homeopathy and similar forms of medicine, but also that of scientific thought. The realization that any scientific approach has its limits can open a door to deeper understanding of traditional occidental medicine.

Animals↗

PubMed1996

[Risk-free homeopathy?].

It is often assumed that homeopathy, even though possibly ineffective, is free of risks. This notion is questioned in this review. Side-effects and complications associated with homeopathy have been reported in the literature. Furthermore the question whether the homeopath is risk-free in all cases needs discussing. As a case in point attitude of some homeopaths towards immunization is quoted as an example of particular concern. On the basis of these data the notion of totally risk-free homeopathy is untenable.

Drug Hypersensitivity↗

PubMed1998

Use of and satisfaction with homeopathy in a patient population.

BACKGROUND: This article describes a survey of new clients entering care with nine practicing classical homeopaths in the Los Angeles metropolitan area between January 1994 and July 1995. METHODS: Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire before undergoing diagnosis by the homeopath. Follow-up interviews were conducted by phone 1 month after diagnosis and face to face 4 months after diagnosis, along with a self-administered questionnaire before the final interview. A total of 104 participants entered the study; 77 completed all data collection. RESULTS: Clients sought homeopathic care for a wide array of largely chronic conditions. Respiratory, gastrointestinal, and female reproductive problems were the most common primary complaints. Most clients were highly educated, but had limited knowledge about homeopathy before entering treatment. Approximately 80% reported earlier, unsuccessful attempts to get relief from mainstream care. Four months after treatment, general measures of health status showed improvement, and only 29% of participants reported no improvement for the primary complaint leading to treatment. Satisfaction with homeopathic treatment was high regardless of outcome. Three outcome measures of perceived change--overall health status, primary condition for which treatment was sought, and outlook on life--were predicted by different combinations of study variables. CONCLUSIONS: Homeopathy does not divert people from seeking mainstream care. The use of alternative modes of care such as homeopathy can be understood as attractive and satisfying to educated individuals with chronic problems.

Adult↗

PubMed1996

[Homeopathy in headaches. A review].

Homeopathy as an alternative to conventional therapy is becoming increasingly popular. Although interest is rising, little is known about the real effectiveness of homeopathic therapy in headaches. Three studies addressing this question are discussed: an Italian migraine study, the London migraine study and our own, the Munich headache trial. While the first one reported very high effects, the best ones known in the literature, the results of the other two trials do not endorse this first finding. The London trial did not show any effect other than placebo, although a different time trend was reported. The Munich study failed to show any difference between homeopathy and placebo whatsoever. The merits and shortcomings of these studies are discussed. At present, we do not have any evidence that homeopathic therapy has any effect other than a placebo effect. However, this can be very impressive sometimes. We do not know which variables are correlated with placebo effectiveness, and we do not have any data on real-type homeopathy outside a trial setting, as there are no data available.

English Abstract↗

PubMed2001

Alternative therapy of animals--homeopathy and other alternative methods of therapy.

Alternative therapy of animals is described, in the meaning of alternatives to veterinary therapy traditionally accepted by veterinary faculties and schools and included in their curricula. Alternative therapy composes of different disciplines, of which homeopathy is emphasised in this presentation. Information is given on the use and interest of such therapy among veterinarians and animal owners. Homeopathy as other alternative therapies, may offer great advances, if they induce any effect. Some of the disciplines are based on a scientifically accepted documentation. Others, and homeopathy in particular, are missing such a documentation of effect. The justification of including alternative therapy in treating animals is discussed. Research in alternative therapy of animals is greatly needed, in particular to evaluate therapeutic methods which are in extensive use without any documented effect. An ongoing research project in Norway on the effect of homeopathic treatment of mastitis in cows is shortly presented.

Animals↗

PubMed2005

Models for explaining the homeopathic healing process: a historical and critical account of principles central to homeopathy.

The success of Homeopathy in curing many diseases has been a serious challenge to science. Nineteenth century explanations for the healing process of Homeopathy cannot withstand the scrutiny of modern science and need to be abandoned or modified. The surviving propositions are discussed. A biocybernetic model with multilevels of electromagnetic feedback loops offers a hope of explaining the healing process. This model, its explanation of the healing process and experimental support are elaborated.

Biophysical Phenomena↗

PubMed2006

Heuristics and bias in homeopathy.

The practice of Homeopathy ought to be strictly logical. In the Organon Samuel Hahnemann gives the impression that the unprejudiced observer should be able to follow an algorithmic route to the simillimum in every case. Judgement and Decision Research, however, indicates that when people grapple with complex systems like homeopathy they are more likely to use heuristics or empirical rules to help them reach a solution. Thus Hahnemann's concept of the unprejudiced observer is virtually impossible to attain. There is inevitable bias in both case-taking and remedy selection. Understanding the types of bias may enable the practitioner to reduce his/her own bias.

Attitude of Health Personnel↗

PubMed2005

Is homeopathy a clinically valuable approach?

Homeopathy is a popular but implausible form of medicine. Contrary to many claims by homeopaths, there is no conclusive evidence that highly dilute homeopathic remedies are different from placebos. The benefits that many patients experience after homeopathic treatment are therefore most probably due to nonspecific treatment effects. Contrary to widespread belief, homeopathy is not entirely devoid of risk. Thus, the proven benefits of highly dilute homeopathic remedies, beyond the beneficial effects of placebos, do not outweigh the potential for harm that this approach can cause.

Clinical Trials as Topic↗