By: Mr. Karan Bhargava, Founder and CEO of Homoeo Amigo
Homoeopathy has long been considered an alternative or secondary treatment option, especially when addressing major health issues. While allopathy remains the primary choice for acute and severe conditions, homoeopathy, which is deeply embedded in India’s history and culture, continues to be sidelined despite its growing popularity and proven efficacy in several chronic and lifestyle-related ailments.
Historical Legacy and Current Position in India
Homoeopathy was introduced to India in the early 19th century and quickly gained followers due to its affordability and accessibility. Since then, it has grown into a major medical system. Today, India boasts the largest number of homoeopathic practitioners in the world, and around 100 million Indians rely on homoeopathy as part of their healthcare.
One reason for this perception is the misconception that homoeopathy is only suitable for minor ailments like allergies, colds, and skin conditions. However, this view ignores the systemic approach homoeopathy takes towards health—its focus on stimulating the body’s innate healing mechanisms, which can be powerful in chronic and complex diseases.
Why This Needs to Change
– Reduced Dependency on Pharmaceuticals: India, like many other countries, faces the challenge of over-reliance on antibiotics and steroids, which significantly contributes to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance. This rise in resistance has become a global health concern, making it increasingly difficult to treat common infections effectively. Homoeopathy, with its focus on natural healing and minimal side effects, offers an alternative to this growing issue. Studies have shown that the use of homoeopathy can reduce the need for antibiotics and other strong medications, thus contributing to better public health outcomes.
– Cost-Effective Healthcare: In a country like India, where access to healthcare is often limited by economic barriers, homoeopathy provides an affordable alternative. India faces significant healthcare access challenges, particularly in affordability. As of 2023, around 73% of the population lacks any form of health insurance, severely limiting their ability to afford quality healthcare. This is particularly concerning for low- and middle-income groups, where out-of-pocket healthcare expenses remain a significant burden. Despite efforts to improve healthcare coverage through schemes like Ayushman Bharat, which aims to cover the most vulnerable, a vast majority of the population, especially in rural areas, is left uncovered.
With rising healthcare costs and overburdened public health systems, homoeopathy can play a pivotal role in offering treatment to vast populations, particularly in rural areas where access to specialized care is limited.
– Government Support and Growth: The Indian government has recognized the potential of homoeopathy and integrated it into its healthcare system through the Ministry of AYUSH. In FY 2024-25, the government allocated ₹3,647 crore to the Ministry of AYUSH, highlighting its commitment to promoting alternative medicine systems, including homoeopathy. This allocation supports the establishment and expansion of homeopathic hospitals, dispensaries, and research centers across the country.
Among the major government initiatives is the National AYUSH Mission (NAM), which provides financial assistance for the development of AYUSH services and educational institutions. Additionally, the AYUSH Health and Wellness Centers, part of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, aim to integrate homoeopathy with mainstream healthcare, offering affordable treatment options to the public. The government has also increased support for research through institutions like the Central Council for Research in Homeopathy (CCRH), furthering scientific validation and development.
Conclusion: The Future of Homoeopathy in India
With over 200,000 registered practitioners and a growing global reputation, homoeopathy in India is poised for further expansion. To fully realise its potential, there needs to be a paradigm shift in how the public, medical community, and policymakers perceive this form of treatment. It is not about replacing allopathy but about integrating homoeopathy as a primary choice in chronic and preventive healthcare, especially given its affordability, minimal side effects, and growing evidence of efficacy.
For India, where healthcare access and affordability remain critical issues, elevating homoeopathy from a secondary option to a mainstream treatment modality could revolutionise how we manage public health—addressing both chronic conditions and lifestyle-related diseases more effectively. It is time to rethink homoeopathy’s role, not as an alternative, but as a complement and sometimes a primary option for health and wellness.
