In the past few months, we have witnessed many positives in our homeopathic world. This morning, as I started to write this editorial. the world woke up to the news that HRH The Prince of Wales has become Patron to The Faculty of Homeopathy. This Is of course a fitting memorial to former Faculty president, Dr Peter Fisher, but more than that, it has positive global implications. Although most of as do not need any confirmation as to how effective homeopathy is, to have a figurehead such as Prince Charles consolidates and strengthens our position as doctors and practitioners of homeopathy, and gives us added credibility (whether we feel we need it or not) in the eyes of those who do not understand it.
I have heard criticisms from a few of our colleagues who feel we do not need to feature the endorsement of stars or celebrities; actually we do, as it helps to make the general public, many of whom have simply not heard of homeopathy, aware that there is an alternative to the purely conventional medical approach. In my opinion, it is our duty to create awareness of the other medical options available to them, which bring a host of benefits and very few negatives. I consider it part of a global education programme.
In the same optimistic vein, an encouraging global report on traditional and complementary medicine by the World Health Organization (WHO) suggested that "given the unique health challenges of the 21st century, interest in traditional and complementary medicine is undergoing a revival". In a statement, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO director general, strongly validated the Faculty's integrative approach to healthcare:
Countries aiming to integrate the best of traditional and complementary medicine and conventional medicine would do well to look not only at the many differences between the two systems, but also at areas where both converge to help tackle the unique health challenges of the 21st century. In an ideal world, traditional medicine would be an option offered by a well functioning, people-centred health system that balances curative services with preventive care.
The Homeopathic Research Institute's (HRI) International Conference took place in June in London and welcomed researchers from 25 countries. The scope and calibre of speakers was exceptional and highlighted the cutting-edge research taking place throughout the world. Among them was the eminent biophysicist Prof VIadimir Voeikov from Moscow State Liniversity's Faculty of Biology. He concluded his brilliant presentation of his extensive research by saying: "Homeopathy does not contradict modern physics or chemistry: it has a very solid scientific foundation."
Much of the research was outstanding in its results and implications for the future, particularly the veterinary homeopathy studies which, for me, destroy any idea of the placebo effect being wholly responsible for the healing. According to our detractors, any curative outcome in animals, even in the most complex of cases, is caused by the homeopath somehow transferring their intention to heal to the dog, cat, chicken, cow, goldfish, goat etc. A ridiculous notion!
The fascinating scientific research presented at the HRI conference, together with the amazing stories of patients being restored to health that we hear of almost daily, validates the efficacy of homeopathy, It also confirms a theme that has stood out for me recently, and was mentioned at both the memorial service for Dr Peter Fisher and the HRI conference: it is the patients human or animal, that are our power.
Continuing to highlight the positives, the American Congress has received thousands of letters in support of homeopathy from all over the world. The lobby group Americans for Homeopathy Choice led by Paola Brown instigated this effort as part of a campaign to challenge proposed changes to the Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) Compliance Policy Guide 400:400 that would seriously limit consumers' access to homeopathic products. This proposal has been described as one of the most critical challenges our community faces today. Two congressmen are now in support of homeopathy, thus the therapy's position with the FDA is strengthened and we are finally in a position to be heard.
So, despite the often exhausting nature of our work, the ever-present detractors, and the hurdles that are frequently thrown in our path, there is much to celebrate. A new distinguished, influential patron; a largely encouraging WHO report; a vibrant, stimulating research conference in London; and glimmers of hope in the USA; all of this achieved by our unfailing commitment and unequivocal belief in this extraordinary system of medicine.
I am frequently reminded of Constantine Hering's motto. "The force of gentleness is great." Slowly but surely, through teamwork and unity, we are building on solid Hahnemannian foundations.and continue to survive.
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