Homeopathy is a type of complementary and alternative medicine that is commonly used in Australia and around the world.
NHMRC has reviewed the scientific evidence for the effectiveness of homeopathy in treating a variety of clinical conditions with the aim of providing Australians with reliable information about its use. The comprehensive assessment of the evidence included:
- a systematic review of the evidence from available systematic reviews (an overview) on the effectiveness of homeopathy in treating a variety of clinical conditions in humans
- a report on evidence submitted to the NHMRC prior to the commencement of the review
- a report on evidence submitted to the NHMRC during public consultation on the draft Information Paper; and
- consideration of published guidelines and other government reports.
The evidence identified in this assessment of the evidence has been summarised in a NHMRC Information Paper, which informed the development of NHMRC’s position on homeopathy. A NHMRC Statement has also been developed, based on the assessment of the evidence.
The NHMRC Information Paper and Statement, Administrative Report and the supporting evidence review reports, are available on the NHMRC website via the following links:
- NHMRC Statement: Statement on Homeopathy
- NHMRC Information Paper - Evidence on the effectiveness of homeopathy for treating health conditions
- Administrative Report - NHMRC advice on the effectiveness of homeopathy for treating health conditions
The Administrative Report provides a brief summary of the processes underpinning the homeopathy review, as well links to a number of additional documents:
- Frequently Asked Questions arising from public consultation
- Summary of key issues: Draft Information Paper on homeopathy—public consultation submissions
- Summary of key issues: Draft Information Paper on homeopathy— expert review comments; and
- A list of studies considered in the Overview and Review of submitted literature.
Homeopathy Working Committee
A Homeopathy Working Committee was established to guide the evidence review. The committee membership included researchers and experts in evidence-based medicine and complementary medicine.