Homeopathy today: a controversial practice but still popular

Homeopathy remains one of the most widely used alternative medicines in the world today, although it is the subject of much debate. In France, Europe, India, Latin America and many other regions, it continues to be practised and advocated by healthcare professionals and patients who are convinced of its effectiveness.

Homeopathy in France: between popularity and delisting from the reimbursement list

France has long been a leading country in the field of modern homeopathy. Several generations of doctors have prescribed homeopathic medicines, and French patients often use them as a complement to conventional treatments.

Key figures for homeopathy in France:

  • 60% of French people say they have used homeopathy at least once.
  • 25% use it regularly, particularly for sleep disorders, stress, chronic pain and mild infections.

The delisting of homeopathic medicines in 2021

Until 2020, homeopathy was partially reimbursed by Social Security. But after several years of controversy and scientific debate, the government decided to remove it from the list of reimbursable treatments in 2021.

This decision has had several consequences:

  • A drop in the consumption of homeopathic remedies.
  • A decrease in prescriptions by general practitioners.
  • An impact on specialised laboratories, such as Boiron and Weleda, major players in homeopathy in France.

However, despite this setback, homeopathy remains popular, thanks in particular to the support of many health professionals and patient demand. Pharmacies continue to sell homeopathic granules, and many practitioners remain convinced of its effectiveness.

Homeopathy around the world: a mixed success

Although marginalised in the West, homeopathy remains very present internationally.

India: a pillar of modern homeopathy

In India, homeopathy is an official medicine, in the same way as ayurveda and allopathic medicine.
Some impressive figures:

  • 100 million Indians use homeopathy exclusively for their medical care.
  • India has more than 200,000 qualified homeopaths.
  • The government has set up a ministry dedicated to AYUSH (alternative medicines, including homeopathy).

Emblematic figures such as Mahatma Gandhi have supported homeopathy, describing it as an effective, economical and non-violent form of medicine. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues to promote this alternative medicine, with significant public investment.

Homeopathy in Latin America

Brazil, Argentina, Cuba: These countries have integrated homeopathy into their public health systems.

  • In Brazil, homeopathy has been officially recognised since 1980, and several public hospitals offer homeopathic treatments.
  • In Cuba, homeopathy is used in the prevention and treatment of certain infectious diseases, with the support of the health authorities.

Homeopathy in Europe: a contrasting position

In Europe, homeopathy remains popular but controversial.

  • Germany: the birthplace of homeopathy with Samuel Hahnemann, the country still has many practitioners and specialised pharmacies.
  • Italy: homeopathy is well established there, with laboratories and doctors who continue to recommend it.
  • United Kingdom: homeopathy has been gradually excluded from public funding. In 2017, the NHS (National Health Service), the British public health system, stopped reimbursing homeopathic treatments, despite the support of the British royal family, in particular King Charles III, who has been using it for a long time.

Homeopathy and politics: varying degrees of support

Homeopathy has always divided political and medical circles.
In France:

  • Roselyne Bachelot, former Minister of Health, initially supported homeopathy before changing her mind.
  • Marisol Touraine has declared herself in favour of a place for homeopathy in the health system.

In the world:

  • Mahatma Gandhi considered homeopathy to be an approach that respects man and nature.
  • Narendra Modi has integrated homeopathy into Indian health policy through the AYUSH ministry.

Homeopathy facing the challenges of modern medicine

With scientific advances in vaccines, antibiotics and biotechnology, homeopathy is often criticised for its lack of solid clinical evidence. Yet it remains popular with millions of patients who incorporate it into a holistic approach to health.

Why do some people continue to favour homeopathy?

  • Alternative medicine: no notable side effects.
  • Individualised approach: each patient is treated according to their specific symptoms.
  • Use in addition to conventional medical treatments.

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