Homeopathy in Chronic Atopic Dermatitis

Homeopathy is a complementary therapeutic system based on the principle of similars (like cures like) and the use of highly diluted, succussed preparations of plant, mineral or animal origin individualised to the patient.

In chronic atopic dermatitis, homeopathic practitioners use individualised remedies such as Sulphur, Graphites, Calcarea carbonica, Arsenicum album or Petroleum, chosen on the basis of detailed history, skin morphology and constitutional features.

From a biomedical viewpoint, homeopathy is controversial because the typical dilutions exceed Avogadro number and a specific molecular mechanism is not demonstrated; the discipline is regulated as a complementary practice in many countries including Turkey under GETAT.

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses, including Cochrane and other groups, have consistently found no robust evidence that homeopathy is more effective than placebo for atopic dermatitis or other conditions; observed benefits in clinical practice are largely attributed to non-specific consultation effects, patient education and lifestyle modification.

Standard care for atopic dermatitis remains regular emollients, topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors, allergen and irritant avoidance, and step-up therapy (phototherapy, systemic immunomodulators or biologics such as dupilumab) for severe disease; homeopathy may be offered in addition only after informed discussion and never as a replacement.