IAS Gyan

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World Homoeopathy Day

11th April, 2023 Science and Technology

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Context

  • A two-day scientific convention is being organised in New Delhi on the occasion of the World Homoeopathy Day (WHD).
  • The theme of this scientific convention is ‘Homoeopathy: People’s Choice for Wellness’.

About

  • World Homeopathy Day is observed every year on April 10th.
  • This day is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, who is the founder of homeopathy.

History of Homeopathy

  • Hahnemann began experimenting with this idea in the late 1700s, and by 1796, he had published a book outlining his principles and practices of homeopathy.
  • He believed that the conventional medical practices of the time, such as bloodletting and the use of toxic substances like mercury, were causing more harm than good, and that homeopathy offered a safer and more effective alternative.
  • Homeopathy quickly gained popularity throughout Europe and spread to North America in the early 19th century.
  • The first homeopathic medical school was established in the United States in 1835, and by the mid-1800s, there were more than 100 homeopathic medical colleges and 15,000 practitioners in the US alone.
  • Despite its popularity, homeopathy was not without its critics. Many in the medical community dismissed it as quackery and questioned its scientific basis. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the rise of modern medicine and the development of antibiotics and other drugs led to a decline in the popularity of homeopathy.
  • Today, homeopathy remains a controversial and divisive topic. Proponents argue that it is a safe and effective form of medicine, while critics point to a lack of scientific evidence supporting its efficacy and the potential risks of using highly diluted substances to treat serious illnesses.

WHD: How it is observed?

  • On World Homeopathy Day, practitioners and supporters of homeopathy come together to raise awareness about the benefits of this alternative form of medicine.
  • They organize events, seminars, and workshops to educate the public about the principles of homeopathy and the various conditions it can treat and to discuss the latest research on homeopathy and its applications.
  • The aim is to educate people about the benefits of homeopathy and to dispel any myths or misconceptions that they may have about this alternative form of medicine.

World Homeopathy Day 2023: Theme

  • The theme of World Homeopathy Day 2023 is "One Health, One Family," with the goal of promoting evidence-based homeopathic therapy for the health and welfare of the entire family through local physicians.

READ:

https://www.iasgyan.in/rstv/global-ayush-investment-innovation-summit-27

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/ayush-initiatives

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.  With increased capacity in training, infrastructure, data analysis, and incubation centres, as well as active government backing and all other conditions in place, India may become a leader in traditional medicine, stimulating innovation and investment in the Ayush industry. Elucidate.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/world-homeopathy-day-2023-history-significance-and-observance/articleshow/99379634.cms#:~:text=World%20Homeopathy%20Day%20is%20observed,is%20the%20founder%20of%20homeopathy.