Schweiz Rundsch Med Prax. 1990 May; 79(19): 593-6; discussion 596-7.

[Homeopathy]

Hopff WH.

Pharmakologisches Institut der Universit�t Z�rich.

Homeopathy has been disputed from the early beginning. The rational basis of homeopathy neither can be established by philosophy nor by natural sciences. On one hand homeopathy is supported by so-called 'empirical physicians', but on the other hand it is usually heavily criticized by physicians who are basing their criticism on natural sciences. 'Healing' is meant to prove the hypothesis of all paramedical people, it can however be easily explained on a rational basis. It is indisputable that paramedical manipulations not only may act by placebo effect but also can appear successful due to the remarkable power of our body for self-healing. If latter plays an important role, especially when there is no time limit for healing. We never tried to convince paramedical ideologists, who are already heavily engaged in paramedical treatment, but it is our aim to reassure with solid arguments colleagues, who have so far been overwhelmed by irrational journalism.