Homoeopathy trusted for low side effects, treating symptoms at low cost: Dr Mukesh Batra

Hyderabad: Homoeopathy, the world's second largest medical system, is witnessing an increase in footfall, particularly from the new generation. As per the data published by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH), the footfall increased by 50% at its 23 institutes and units.

The number of beneficiaries availing services from AYUSH Health and Wellness Centres (AWHC), run under the National AYUSH Mission (NAM), has increased from 1.5 crores in 2020-21 to 8.42 crores in 2022-23.

The spike in the Indian homoeopathic medical market, to USD $ 31.04 million and expected to cross USD 81.17 million by 2033, also reflects the increase in dependence on the homoeopathy system.

In this context, NewsMeter spoke to Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman, Emeritus, Dr Batra’s Healthcare, on the key factors fuelling the footfall for homoeopathic medical systems. Excerpts:

NM: What are the possible reasons for the increase in dependence on homeopathy?

Dr. Mukesh Batra: With more than four decades dedicated to practicing and developing homeopathy, I can say that there is an observable worldwide shift towards natural and holistic forms of healing. The increasing trust in homeopathy roots from its safety and almost non-existent side effects in comparison to conventional treatments, which often come with a lengthy list of complications. Patients are opting for homeopathy’s tailored method of dealing with health issues instead of one-size-fits-all frameworks, which focus on treating the disease rather than the person’s whole body, mind, and emotions. Chronic conditions such as skin disorders, allergies, asthma, stress, etc., often need long-term care, where the effectiveness of homeopathy has made it a trusted choice.

Homeopathy is also economical and easily available, especially in a country like India that has incorporated it into the National Healthcare System. In an era where people are seeking softer and more environmentally friendly approaches to healthcare, homeopathy provides a scientifically plausible and personally comforting approach.

NM: What are the advantages of homeopathy treatment for psoriasis and depression related treatments?

Dr. Mukesh Batra: I’ve treated many patients struggling with conditions like psoriasis and depression, which are often linked with stress and emotional triggers. For psoriasis, homeopathic remedies help reduce scaling, itching, and inflammation without the harmful side effects associated with steroids or immunosuppressants. Medicines like Arsenicum Album, Graphites, and Sulphur are frequently prescribed based on individual symptoms. In depression, homeopathy works gently on the psyche by boosting mood, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep. Homeopathy medicines such as Ignatia Amara, Natrum Muriaticum, and Aurum Metallicum are known to support emotional healing. Most importantly, our approach is customized; there is no generic treatment that can apply to all. This individualized method allows us to offer patients long-term relief and restore overall well-being without dependency or toxicity.

NM: How are mental health conditions treated in homeopathy, and its advantages?

Dr. Mukesh Batra: Dr Batra’s Healthcare recognizes the importance of mental health in the same way as physical health. Homeopathy can treat mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and insomnia by addressing the underlying cause by treating emotional and psychological triggers as opposed to simply suppressing symptoms. Conventional medicine typically relies heavily on sedatives and antidepressants, whereas homeopathy offers gentle remedies that neither have side effects nor addiction. Medicines such as Ignatia Amara, Aurum Metallicum, Natrum Muriaticum, and Pulsatilla are integral choices based on the patient, their emotional states, and their experiences in life.

We focus on deep listening, we do not just screen physical stimuli and symptoms. We also observe emotional symptoms and then choose medicines that consistently restore balance in the body and mind. Over time, they typically return with improved resiliency, better sleep patterns, improved emotional control, and an overall greater level of calmness, making homeopathy a safe and sustainable option in today’s fast-paced, stress-heavy world.

NM: How is obesity treated in homeopathy, and its advantages over other systems of medicine?

Dr. Mukesh Batra: Obesity is another challenging condition that originates from hormonal imbalance, unmanaged stress, occasional emotional eating, thyroid problems, and even genetic predisposition or familial disposition. At Dr Batra's®, we treat obesity not just by getting rid of the excess weight but by understanding the root cause of that weight gain and correcting it via our homeopathic principles, which are individually tailored to each patient. For weight management, Calcarea Carbonica, Natrum Muraticum, or Lycopodium are frequently prescribed depending on individual symptoms, body constitution, or emotional triggers. Unlike crash diets or fast-acting weight-loss pills, homeopathy usually works slowly, meaning it is safe, non-invasive, and free from side effects.

Homeopathy can lead to healthy metabolism and digestion while reducing cravings, all while not restricting the body's natural rhythm. Another helpful point is that treating obesity via the homeopathic principles can also treat co-existing conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, and even depression, which can also lead to weight gain. Using a more holistic, sustainable approach can help in long-term weight management and potentially better comorbid conditions, which are more important than the actual reduction on the scale.