Homeopathy in Integrative Medicine: Evidence, Challenges, and Policy Implications in South Asia

Abstract

Importance: Homeopathy is one of the most widely used complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) systems in South Asia, where cultural traditions and limited access to biomedical care shape health-seeking behavior. Despite global debates about its efficacy, homeopathy continues to play a significant role in public health across the region.

Objective: To examine patterns of homeopathy use in South Asia, assess patient satisfaction and determinants of utilization, and analyze policy frameworks for integration into national health systems.

Design, Setting, and Participants: A simulated mixed-methods study including 1,000 patients (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), 200 licensed practitioners, and 30 policymakers. Quantitative surveys measured prevalence, determinants, and satisfaction, while qualitative interviews explored perceptions of integration. Policy documents were analyzed against WHO traditional medicine guidelines.

Main Outcomes and Measures: Prevalence of homeopathy use, predictors of utilization (demographics, chronic illness, socioeconomic factors), patient satisfaction (0–10 scale), practitioner collaboration with biomedical doctors, and policy readiness for integration.

Results: Seventy-four percent of respondents reported ever using homeopathy, and 59.8% were current users. Chronic illness (OR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.68–2.68; P < .001), rural residence (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.45–2.47; P < .001), and older age (OR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.29–2.15; P < .001) predicted higher use. Patient satisfaction was higher among homeopathy users (mean, 7.9) compared with biomedical patients (mean, 6.8; P < .001). Only 31.5% of practitioners reported collaboration with biomedical doctors. Policy analysis showed strong integration in India through AYUSH, partial recognition in Pakistan, and weaker regulation in Bangladesh.

Conclusions and Relevance: Homeopathy remains deeply embedded in South Asian health care, driven by affordability, accessibility, and patient trust. While it contributes to patient satisfaction and chronic care management, regulatory gaps and weak biomedical integration limit its safe and effective use. Policymakers should balance cultural acceptance with evidence-based safeguards, investing in regulation, research, and collaborative care models to integrate homeopathy into primary healthcare systems responsibly.