Homeopathy in India

Introduction

Homeopathy is a form of alternative and complementary medicine. (Frew, Corrigan, Kay, 751-753) It was developed by German Physician Samuel Hahnemann in the late 18th century. The basic of philosophy of Homeopathy is that mind, body and emotions are not distinct, but are totally integrated. Based on this principle, the homeopath finds a remedy suitable for psychological and physical symptoms of the patient. Homeopathic remedies are prepared from the substances which cause the symptoms resembling to the disease. These substances are used in serially diluted form. The major advantage of Homeopathic remedies is that it has no side effects on the body. Homeopathy in India is rapidly gaining popularity. Many people seek for the homeopathic treatment because of its benefits.

Homeopathy in India

Homeopathy arrived in India during 1810, when some of the German physicians and missionaries visited Bengal and distributed the homeopathic remedies. Credit goes to Dr. John Martin Honigberger to bring Homeopathy to India. Later on, Homeopathy in India became extremely popular. In the beginning of 20th century, Homeopathic dispensaries were started in majority of important cities in India. Even today, several Homeopathic dispensaries are popping up. Central Council for Research in homeopathy was established in the year 1978.

Homoeopathy came to India as early as 1810 when a French traveler, Dr. John Martin Honigberger who learnt Homoeopathy from Dr. Samuel Hahnemann visited India and treated patients with Homoeopathy. In his second visit in the year 1839, he treated the then ruler of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh with Dulcamara. Maharaja was so happy with results and he encouraged him to continue the Homoeopathic treatment in India. Homoeopathy continued to spread and Indians found in its philosophy and principles, a reflection of their belief and culture. The ancient Hindu physicians had, in fact recognized the "Law of Similars" as one of the principles of treatment. In the Bhagwat Purana, written hundred of years ago in the Bhagwat Purana - a Sanskrit couplet says "Vishaya Vishmoshashi" to which Homoeopathy took root and flourished. Surgeon Samuel Brooking, a retired Medical Officer had the courage and conviction to establish a Homoeoapthic Hospital at Tanjore, in South India, in 1847. There have been a number of other well-known enthusiasts like Dr. Cooper and Dr. J. Ruther ford Russel, two Government Medical Officers, Mr. H. Ryper, a military pensioner, Captain May and others of Calcutta, made Homoeopathy popular among the masses of Bengal. Last but not the least, was the services rendered by Dr. C. J. Tonnere, M.D. the French Homoeopath, proved "Acalpha Indica" in the year 1851 was first Health Officer of the town of Calcutta and later he established Homoeopathic Hospital. In 1861, a virulent epidemic of malarial fever was raging over lower Bengal and it was at this juncture that the great philanthropist, Late Babu Rajendra Lall Dutta, a layman, truly laid the foundation of Homoeopathy and started its practice with astounding results. He converted the redoubtable allopath and his opponent, Dr. Mahendra Lall Sircar, M.D. D.L., C.I. E. to Homoeopathy. ...