When less is better: a comparison of Bach Flower Remedies and homeopathy.
OBJECTIVE
Homeopathy and Bach Flower Remedies (BFRs), historically-related complementary healing modalities classified as prescription/nonprescription drugs and over-the-counter homeopathic nutritional supplements, respectively, are compared with respect to indications, dosage philosophies, associated procedures, reported outcomes, safety profiles, and the possible operation of the placebo effect.


METHODS
Original data and published research reports, including case studies, retrospective meta-analyses, and double-blind clinical trials are compiled and evaluated for both healing systems.


RESULTS
Homeopathy and BFR therapy both feature highly diluted natural medicinal substances, flexible dosage schedules tailored to individual patients, and energy-based healing action. They differ with respect to practitioner training and certification, number and types of medicinal source materials, remedy combinations and applications, and potential toxicity or other side-effects.


CONCLUSIONS
Extensive testing has produced mixed or equivocal results regarding the efficacy of both of these health care systems. While a variety of positive outcomes have been frequently recorded with Homoeopathy and BFR treatments, it is likely that the placebo effect operates to a significant extent in both approaches.
Halberstein
Robert A
RA
Department of Anthropology at the University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33124, USA. R.Halberstein@Miami.edu
Sirkin
Alicia
A
Ojeda-Vaz
Maria M
MM
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D035264:Flowers; D006705:Homeopathy; D006801:Humans; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; D010686:Philosophy, Medical; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D028321:Plant Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010944:Plants; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; D028321:Plant Preparations