The principles of homeopathy were founded by Samuel Hahnemann a German physician who earned his medical degree in 1779. Homeopathy is a system of medicine which involves treatment with highly diluted substances. It is based on the principle of treating “like with like” – a substance when administered in high doses can cause certain symptoms and can also treat those symptoms when given in very small amounts. Homeopathic medicines, called remedies, are prepared by specialist pharmacies.

In late 2011, the Swiss government commissioned a report on homeopathic medicine. This report evaluates evidence from randomized double-blind and placebo controlled clinical trials and also assesses safety and cost-effectiveness. In addition, researchers conducted a comprehensive review of preclinical research (“fundamental physio-chemical research, botanical studies, animal studies, and in vitro studies with human cells”). Deemed as a comprehensive evaluation of homeopathy, the book form was printed in English by Bornhoft and Matthiessen. This breakthrough document affirms that homeopathic treatment is both effective and cost-effective.