Critics call for the abolition of the additional name homeopathy

Additional name Homeopathy should be abolished

While some people actually idolize homeopathy, critics refer to the treatment method as charlatanry or "esoteric doctrine of salvation". Experts now call for the abolition of the additional term "homeopathy".

Acts homeopathy?

Homeopathy - Healing or Humbug? This question has been dividing supporters and critics of the healing process founded by Samuel Hahnemann for years. Scientific evidence for the effectiveness of the small white beads is hard to find. Although some physicians point out that homeopathy is effective, for example, in pain, according to studies, but an Australian research team found in a study that such drugs do no better than placebo. German critics are now advocating that doctors in the future can no longer advertise the additional term "homeopathy".

Proponents and critics have been arguing over the effectiveness of homeopathy for decades. Now there is new fuel: Experts call for the abolition of the additional term "homeopathy" for doctors. (Image: Sonja Birkelbach / fotolia.com)

Followers versus critics

The topic of homeopathy splits the mind.

Followers of the doctrine of salvation founded more than 200 years ago by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) 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.

In addition, they point out that the effectiveness of homeopathy has been confirmed by studies.

Among other things, this has something to do with the so-called placebo effect - the belief in the effect alone works. In addition, homeopaths usually go to their patients intensively.

People want to believe in miracles

Critics, however, speak of missing scientific evidence on the effect of homeopathy. However, users often do not care about this: experience is more important to them than studies.

"People want to believe in miracles," says Dr. Natalie Grams. The doctor, who had practiced a homeopathic practice and a critical book on homeopathy ("Homeopathy rethought - what patients really helps") wrote, said in a critical discussion with "Heilpraxisnet":

"People are not necessarily prone to rationality in the first place. We like to believe in miracles, we find great promises more appealing than critical thinking and consistent questioning - all of us. "

Additional name "homeopathy" should be abolished

The long-standing dispute over the application and effectiveness of homeopathy has now received new fuel.

For critics want to achieve that doctors are no longer allowed to use the additional term "homeopathy" on the practice shield.

According to the Münster circle, homeopathy is an "esoteric doctrine of salvation" that undermines patient confidence. The additional designation gives the apprenticeship the coat of scientific respectability.

The Münster district is according to own data "an informal union of experts, who critically deal with the complementary and alternative medicine (KAM)."

Effect can not be attributed to pharmacological mechanisms

The Münster district calls on the delegates of the 121st German Medical Conference, which takes place from 8 to 11 May in Erfurt, to abolish the additional term homeopathy, according to a statement of the critics.

In support of their request, they drafted a memorandum in which they write that homeopathy does not attribute the effect of their "remedies" to pharmacological mechanisms, "but to the salutary influence of immaterial, mind-like agents."

"If the Musterweiterbildungsordnung calls for the awarding of the additional term" homeopathy "the acquisition of a" professional competence in homeopathy ", then it demands nothing more than a" competence "in dealing with mental forces," criticizes the circle.

And: "From a scientific point of view, it would be equally justifiable to give an additional term" health person "for the" competence "which prayers are to be applied to which saints for which diseases."

Additional designation has proven itself for decades

The German Central Association of Homeopathic Doctors (DZVhÄ) dismissed the request of the Münsteraner Kreis.

"The additional name Homeopathy awarded by the medical associations has proven itself for decades in the German medical profession. More and more doctors are leading them, there are currently about 7000 doctors in different fields, in basic and standard care, "said Cornelia Bajic, chairwoman of the DZVhÄ.

According to the expert, the demand for medical homeopathy has increased enormously in the last 20 years.

"With regard to quality assurance and patient safety, the additional term homeopathy guarantees good and safe patient care," says Bajic.

"In addition, homeopathy is legally anchored in the Fifth Social Code (SGB V). The curriculum closely coordinated with the German Medical Association ensures competent treatment of patients. "

Homeopathic doctors profess to be scientific

The chairperson of the DZVhÄ also points out that homeopathic physicians are committed to scientific research and that summarizing clinical research data sufficiently substantiates the therapeutic benefit of homeopathic treatment.

"Medical homeopathy is effective and evidence-based. This has been proven by numerous studies, "said Bajic.

"Physically, it is an integral part of integrative medicine that combines the best of conventional medicine and medical homeopathy for the benefit of the patient." (Ad)