Last reviewed: 15 Jul 2019

Homeopathy is based on the theory of ‘like cures like’. It uses small doses of a substance that in large doses would cause symptoms of the illness. There is no scientific evidence that it can prevent or treat cancer.

Summary

- Homeopathy uses small doses of a substance that in large doses would cause symptoms of the illness

- There is no scientific evidence that it can prevent or treat cancer

- Homeopathic medicines might have side effects and interact with other medicine

What is homeopathy?

Homeopathy is more than 200 years old. It is one of the most common complementary therapies used by people with cancer.

Homeopathy is based on the theory of ‘like cures like’ and the ‘law of the smallest dose’. To treat an illness, a homeopathic therapist (homeopath) uses tiny doses of a substance. In large doses, the substance would cause the symptoms of the illness.

Followers believe that homeopathic medicines work by starting the body’s self-healing process. This happens through a reaction. Healing occurs because the body tries to keep a stable internal environment.

Manufacturers make homeopathic remedies from plant, mineral and animal substances. They are diluted in water and shaken until there is little, if any, of the original substance left. They use the water to make drops, pills or creams.

Why people with cancer use it

As with most types of complementary therapy, people use it because it may help them feel better or more in control of their situation.

Some people choose homeopathy because it is a different type of treatment compared to conventional medicine

People use it alongside conventional medicine. You should not have it instead of conventional cancer treatment.

Homeopaths believe that it can treat a wide range of symptoms and conditions.

Followers of homeopathy promote it to people with cancer as a natural way to help you:

  • relax
  • cope with stress, anxiety and depression
  • control symptoms and side effects such as pain, sickness and tiredness

People report that they feel better with homeopathy. But there is no evidence to show that it helps with any health condition. It is thought that it may have a placebo effect. This is when people feel better if they believe they have taken something to make them feel better.