EU researchers warn against health hazards through homeopathy

The topic of homeopathy splits the mind. On the one hand, there are the proponents who claim that homeopathy is popular with users and has been proven by studies. On the other hand, opponents emphasize that there is no scientifically sound evidence for the healing method and that the sugar globules called "globulis" are at most attributable to a placebo effect. The critical side now receives support from a working group set up by the Academic Council of the European Academies (EASAC).

Violent discussion between supporters and opponents

Homeopathy - Healing or Humbug? This question has been controversial for some time now and there are many myths and facts about globules. The followers of the healing process founded by Samuel Hahnemann are firmly convinced of the therapeutic success of the extremely diluted active ingredients, which are administered via globules, pills or solutions. They speak of a holistic method without side effects, which often even help when conventional medicine no longer has a solution. Opponents regard homeopathy as a pure matter of faith for which there is no scientific evidence. Possible results are attributed to the contra side exclusively to a placebo effect.

European scientists warn in a recent statement against possible dangers of homeopathic remedies. (Image: Visions-AD / fotolia.com)

No proof of the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies

Sharp criticism is now coming from scientists at a working group set up by the Advisory Council of the European Academies (EASAC). In a current statement, this clearly takes a position against homeopathy and comes to the conclusion that there is no "scientifically sound and reproducible" evidence of the effectiveness of the healing method.

Thus, the researchers would acknowledge that in individual cases, a placebo effect may occur. "However, in line with previous extensive evaluations, we conclude that there are no known diseases for which there is robust, reproducible evidence that homeopathy is effective beyond the placebo effect," the researchers said.

No evidence of benefits in veterinary medicine

The researchers even warn of a potential health threat from homeopathic remedies, for example, if other necessary therapies are delayed by these or even not even begun. Similarly, there is a risk that the promotion of homeopathy will undermine public confidence in the nature and value of scientific evidence.

Furthermore, they conclude that there is no strong evidence supporting the use of homeopathy in veterinary medicine. Therefore, it is of particular concern when, for the treatment of livestock, such products are favored over evidence-based medicinal products, according to the Communication.

For the scientists it is clear: Any claimed efficacy of homeopathic products in clinical use can therefore be explained by the placebo effect, or e.g. attributed to poor study design, coincidences or selective or lack of publication of clinical trials ("publication bias").

Opinion follows on from previous work

As the EASAC explains, the current opinion has been published in order to build on the recent work of the member academies and to strengthen criticism of the scientific and health claims for homeopathic products. The analysis and conclusions would therefore be based on the "excellent, science-based assessments" already published by authoritative and impartial authorities.

Cost assumption only if demonstrable effect

Based on the findings, the experts are now calling for, among other things, the creation of uniform provisions that will review the efficacy, safety and quality of all products for human and veterinary use across the EU. In addition, evidence-based public health systems should only reimburse the cost of homeopathic products and applications if, after rigorous testing, they can be proven to be effective and safe.

Likewise, the advertising and marketing of homeopathic products and services should meet the standards set in terms of accuracy and clarity, the researchers demand. (No)