Homeopathy for psychiatric patients—for and against

Abstract

The application of homeopathic treatment quickly becomes a matter of ideological confrontation; however, homeopathy is steadily gaining in sympathy in the population. Although the possible effectiveness and the modes of action are currently not scientifically elucidated and the study situation regarding homeopathic treatment in psychiatry is still manageable, there is a whole series of positive evidence for the effects of homeopathic remedies for mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety disorders and addiction. The most important studies are presented and the most important arguments are weighed up with respect to the pros and cons. It is clear that homoeopathic remedies can only be used as an add-on and not alone. These remedies belong in the hands of physicians experienced in homeopathic and psychiatric psychopharmacology. It would be advisable to at least try out homeopathy for the well-being of the patient not only in the case of very mild disorders but also in severe chronic cases, since due to the generally good tolerability, no avoidable disadvantage should result.

Homöopathie: therapeutische Wirksamkeit und Anwendung in der klinischen Praxis

“…Die Anwendung der HPBehandlung wird schnell zu einer ideo logischen Auseinandersetzung; Zwar sind die mögliche Wirksam keit und die Wirkungsweisen derzeit noch nicht wissenschaftlich geklärt, trotzdem gewinnt die HP stetig an Sympathie in der Bevöl kerung [46]. Es ist wissenschaftlich klar, dass HPMittel nur als Er gänzung und nicht allein verwendet werden sollten, aufgrund der allgemein guten Verträglichkeit sollte kein vermeidbarer Nachteil entstehen [46]. HP Wirkungen werden im Wesentlichen durch Pla cebo-Effekte erklärt [19].…”

Alternative medicine under the Mental Health Care Act, 2017: Future implications and concerns

“…It is important to note that, the AYUSH systems of medicine have provided a more holistic approach to the diagnosis and management of mental illness, as well as mental health [38] promotion, than western models of mental illness (6). For instance, there are some striking similarities between modern psychiatric models of gut dysregulation and depression and Ayurvedic perspectives (9).…”

“…As they are the first point of contact for patients, an incorrect diagnosis using DSM-5 or ICD-10 or diagnosis with the AYUSH classification system could increase forensic and legal issues (eg diagnosing a major illness such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorders as minor illness, or vice versa, due to inadequate training in administration of DSM-5 or ICD-10 or AYUSH classification systems). Thus, the provision of good quality mental healthcare services without inequalities and discrimination as envisaged under MHCA, 2017 may be difficult to deliver (38).…”

Der Einsatz von Homöopathie in der Psychiatrie

“…Dass es bei sehr vielen Krankheiten, insbesondere bei degenerati ven und bösartigen Erkrankungen, Grenzen gibt, liegt in der Natur der Sache. Bezüglich der Studienlage gibt es sehr uneinheitliche Ergebnis se, die nicht immer nur für die Homöopathie sprechen [6,8]. Diese Veröffentlichungen bieten einen Überblick über die Studienlage der homöopathischen Behandlung von psychiatrischen Erkrankungen.…”