Dr Robinson, who practises both conventional medicine and homeopathy, gave 5331 consultations over a twelve month period. Out of these, 489 or 9% were homeopathic consultations. Patients were offered homeopathic treatment when appropriate, as an alternative to conventional treatment or when conventional treatment had nothing to offer. 78% of the patients he treated homeopathically reported a positive clinical response.*

Patients were treated for a variety of ailments, including ear, nose and throat complaints (mainly respiratory tract infections), mental/psychological illnesses such as anxiety, grief, shock and panic and dermatological conditions such as eczema. Many of these conditions are difficult to treat conventionally. For example, antibiotics are not indicated for viral infections but homeopathy can provide a useful alternative. Equally, for patients with psychological problems such as anxiety, where doctors are reluctant to prescribe tranquillisers and hypnotics, homeopathy offers an effective alternative.

Dr Robinson says: “All the consultations in this study were undertaken in routine GP appointments. Critics of homeopathy claim that one explanation for the successful response to homeopathic treatment is extended consultation time. They suggest that patients feel better having had the opportunity to talk at length about their condition and their concerns. This study does not support such a claim as all the consultations took place in a standard 10 minute GP appointment.”

He acknowledges the limitations of such a study but notes that the results are consistent with a large number of other studies both in primary and secondary care. He calls for a large-scale study of this or similar design to build up data that would give further insights into the use and effectiveness of the homeopathic method.

* Responses to homeopathic treatment in National Health Service general practice. Dr T Robinson. Homeopathy (2006) 95, 9-14

Notes to editors

The Faculty of Homeopathy

The Faculty of Homeopathy was incorporated by Act of Parliament in 1950 to provide education and training in homeopathy for statutorily regulated healthcare professionals. The Faculty’s membership includes doctors, vets, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, podiatrists and a number of other healthcare professionals who integrate homeopathy into their practice.

The British Homeopathic Association

The British Homeopathic Association (BHA) is a registered charity, which aims to ensure high-quality homeopathy is an integral part of general and specialist health care. The BHA works towards this goal by providing information to the public, promoting access to treatment and supporting the homeopathic education of health care professionals and research. A list of health care professionals qualified in homeopathy can be obtained by calling 0870 444 3950 or by visiting www.trusthomeopathy.org

For further information, case studies or to interview Dr Tim Robinson, a member of the Faculty of Homeopathy, please contact Sarah Buckingham, BHA and Faculty of Homeopathy, on 0870 444 3957 or (out of hours) 07986 429933 or email: sbuckingham@trusthomeopathy.org