Theoretical, scientific and regulatory approaches of homeopathy

The principles of homeopathy were enacted by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann in 1810. They are based on assumptions of pathogenesis (or similarity), high dilutions (to avoid the toxicity of the active ingredient-poison), dynamization (or succussion), and the individualization of each patient. Having passed through the sieve of scientific experimentation, it is well established that the effectiveness of homeopathy on the symptoms and signs it intends to eliminate or relieve is not different from that of a placebo. In France, the reimbursement of drugs is decided by the Ministry of Health after consulting the Transparency Commission on the actual benefit. Homeopathic remedies receive a 30% reimbursement by ministerial exemption introduced in 1984 while they have never been evaluated by the Commission. Homeopathy is based on theoretical principles that are in complete contradiction with data from modern basic, experimental and clinical sciences. The referral to the College of the Health authority by the Ministry of Health to "decide on the merits of the management of homeopathic medicines (remedies) based on existing data" should confirm this.