Homeopathic drug discovery: theory update and methodological aspect

BACKGROUND: Homeopathy treats patient on the basis of totality of symptoms and is based on the principle of 'like cures like'. It uses ultra-low doses of highly diluted natural substances as remedies that originate from plants, minerals or animals. OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this review are to discuss concepts, controversies and research related to understanding homeopathy in the light of modern science. METHODS: Attempts have been made to focus on current views of homeopathy and to delineate its most plausible mechanism(s) of action. RESULTS: Although some areas of concern remain, research carried out so far both in vitro and in vivo validates the effects of highly diluted homeopathic medicines in a wide variety of organisms. CONCLUSION: The precise mechanism(s) and pathway(s) of action of highly diluted homeopathic drugs are still unknown.