Homeopathic remedies are so diluted that there’s no active ingredient left, and any benefits are entirely placebo (in the mind of the patient)-or so the sceptics maintain. But they’re not harmless: arch sceptic Edzard Ernst has discovered 1,159 cases of ‘adverse effects’, even including four deaths, among patients taking homeopathy.
The most common adverse effects were allergic reactions and intoxications, across a mild-to-severe spectrum-but also included four deaths attributed to the homeopathic remedy being taken.
Ernst, former professor of complementary medicine at Exeter University, made the surprising discovery when he searched five electronic databases, and discovered 30 reports-involving 1,159 patients-of adverse effects from homeopathic remedies.
“Homeopathy has the potential to harm patients,” Ernst concluded, “and doctors should be aware of the risks and advise their patients accordingly.”
(Source: Int J Clin Pract, 2012; 66: 1178-88)
