New Delhi: World Homoeopathy Day 2026 offers an opportunity to revisit how this system of medicine evolved in India over two centuries. What began as tiny
paper pouches known as ‘davayi ki puriya’ has grown into a regulated and widely practised stream within the country’s healthcare framework. Introduced by German practitioners in the early 19th century, homoeopathy gradually found acceptance across royal courts and urban centres. Over time, policy support, formal education and statutory regulation shaped its institutional presence.
Today, India is regarded as one of the largest centres for homoeopathic education and practice, supported by legislative measures and integration under the AYUSH framework. While supporters highlight its individualised approach and gentle prescriptions, global health bodies have also issued caution regarding its use in serious diseases. As demand continues in multiple regions, discussions around research standards, evidence and regulation remain central to its future direction.
Homoeopathy in India: History, regulation and global presence
How homoeopathy reached India
Homoeopathy entered India in 1810 through German missionaries who distributed medicines in eastern regions. In 1839, Dr John Hoenigberger treated Maharaja Ranjit Singh, bringing wider attention to the practice. The court’s association helped expand its reach. Reformers such as Pandit Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar and physician Dr Mahendra Lal Sarkar also contributed to its acceptance among urban communities.
Legislative recognition and policy support
Recognition gathered pace in the 20th century. The Chopra Committee reports, and the Drugs and Cosmetics Act acknowledged Indian Systems of Medicine, including homoeopathy. The Central Council of Homoeopathy Act, passed in 1973, formalised education and professional standards. In 2014, homoeopathy became part of the AYUSH framework, and the National Commission for Homoeopathy Act was enacted in 2020 to strengthen regulation.
Indian homoeopaths among best globally
Dr Kushal Banerjee and Dr Kalyan Banerjee, experts in homoeopathy, say Indian homoeopaths are counted as the best globally today. The credit goes to the training, structure and regulation that these acts provided. SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre’s Founder, Chairman and Medical Director, Dr Issac Mathai, said homoeopathy is misunderstood, particularly when it comes to the question of side effects. He added, “The reality is that homoeopathy is designed to be a safe and gentle system of healing when practised correctly.”
Global position and ongoing debate
Dr Kushal Banerjee and Dr Kalyan Banerjee added that the World Health Organisation or WHO has noted homoeopathy among widely used traditional systems in several countries. However, in 2009, WHO also advised against its use for serious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis and malaria. Supporters cite patient-reported improvements in chronic conditions, while researchers continue to examine its scientific basis. Calls for stronger evidence, transparent studies and balanced reporting remain part of the broader healthcare discussion.
As India marks World Homoeopathy Day 2026 on April 10, the recognition of this alternative therapy system have been growing along with more research and focus on using it in correct way.
