Agra: The Taj City has become a hub of Homeopathy treatment, with a dozen local Homeopaths getting international recognition for their pioneering efforts. A Prestigious German group recently honoured Dr Pradip Gupta, who runs the Neminath Homeopathy Hospital.

The patriarch, Dr RS Pareek was awarded Padamshri last year. His son Alok and grandson continue to enrich his legacy. Every year scores of Homeopaths from developed European countries attend his workshops.

Similarly, Dr Kailash Saraswat, Dr SC Upraity, Dr Vikram and several others, are popular Homeopaths of the city, whose significant contributions have attracted notice.

Dr Pradip Gupta who successfully treated thousands of Covid-19 victims, including politicians, media persons, and medical professionals, has claimed success in treating cancer patients. He says Homeopathy has effective medicines to contain the spread of diseases and provide relief to the patients.

But the continuing apathy of the decision makers and various interest groups, have prevented the spread and growth of Homeopathy, creating doubts about its credibility in the minds of the people, Gupta lamented.

Gupta has now opened an Ayurvedic hospital. The future of alternative therapies is bright and India must be ready to promote its ancient wisdom globally, Gupta added

Guinness world record holder for treating lakhs of patients within a short span, Agra's young homoeopath, Dr Parthsarthy Sharma is equally popular and widely acknowledged.

Sharma, already a Limca record holder and recipient of numerous awards, said "For 40 years I have been treating patients and serving humanity. I wanted to make homoeopathy popular and remove some of the misgivings about homoeopathy. For me, it is a mission. I want all professionals to serve at least 20 per cent of people free, without charges."

At his clinic supported by a charitable foundation in the posh Jaipur House colony, Parthsarthy Sharma keeps a detailed record of each patient.

The growing popularity of homoeopathy reflects a significant shift in public sentiment towards healthcare, particularly in the face of disenchantment with modern allopathic medicine.

In recent years, many individuals have expressed concerns over the side effects and complications that can arise from conventional treatments. Prescription medications often come with a long list of adverse effects, causing patients to seek alternatives that promise fewer risks and more holistic approaches.

Cities like Agra have emerged as hubs for homoeopathic practices, attracting those disillusioned by the limitations of allopathy. The appeal of homoeopathy lies not only in its avoidance of harsh side effects but also in its focus on the individual as a whole, emphasizing a personalized approach to healing. Homeopathic remedies, typically in the form of sweet pills or tinctures, are believed to stimulate the body’s innate healing processes without introducing toxic substances. This aligns with a growing preference for natural and less invasive treatment options.

Moreover, the affordability and accessibility of homoeopathic treatments further enhance their appeal. Many people find homoeopathy to be a cost-effective solution, as it often requires fewer doses over time and can be easily sourced from local practitioners. This convenience, combined with positive personal testimonials and anecdotal evidence, has fueled a burgeoning interest in homoeopathy.

However, while the rise of homoeopathy offers an appealing alternative, it is crucial to approach this trend with a balanced perspective, says Dr Anubhav Khandelwal, a teacher. Scientific rigour and clinical validation of homoeopathic practices remain contentious points. Ideally, a thoughtful integration of homeopathy and conventional medicine could lead to improved patient outcomes, addressing the needs of those dissatisfied with allopathic options, while ensuring safety and efficacy in treatment, Anubhav adds.

As the discourse around health evolves, the trend toward homoeopathy provides insight into the changing landscapes of patient care and expectations.