Homeopathy around the world – an overview

Homoeopathic medicines are simple, safe and scientific. It uses minute doses and has blended well into the traditions and ethos of many countries. This system was a popular means of medicare in Europe and America in later part of 18th and early 19th centuries. There were many hospitals and teaching institutions, but due to its inadequate refinement after the death of its founder, lack unanimity amongst his followers on certain unconventional principles of the system; due to advent of the modern therapeutic agents along with surgery in allopathic medicine, war, industrialization etc the popularity of Homoeopathy waned during 1930 to 1970. During this period there were efforts to label Homoeopathy as a mere quackery and in some countries its practice was even banned.

Due to its safety, efficacy and comparatively low cost, there is a resurgence of interest in the system and is becoming quite popular among the masses. Now Homoeopathy is being practiced in all the continents either as an independent system or as a complementary /alternative form of medicine. Within a short span of over two hundred years of its origin, the system has been able to muster popularity and official patronage in several countries.

This has happened despite the fact that the majority of the conventional health care providers do not know nor understand its advanced perspectives and have not witnessed its effectiveness. Homeopathy occupies arguably the highest position amongst all the Complementary/Alternative therapies being accepted by the public across the world.

The lecture gives a balanced overview of the legal status, teaching institutions, research, important professional organisations etc. over 76 countries.

Keywords:

Homeopathic practice and institutions worldwide.

Schlüsselwörter:

Homöopathische Praxis und Institutionen weltweit.

Korrespondierender Autor: Dr. Eswara Das, Deputy Adviser (HOMOEO), Ministry of Health & Family welfare, Government of India, New Delhi, India