GMP in Homeopathy : Dr. Snehal Singh

Importance of GMP in Homeopathy

GMP provides standards on hygiene, premises, equipment, ancillary and storage areas, production and quality control, raw material, procedures, labels and packing material, SOPs, records and other activities involved in manufacturing and handling of homeopathic medicines. These ethical practices have been laid to ensure that the homeopathic products meet the prescribed standards laid by the Governing/ regulatory authorities and that the safety of homeopathic treatment provided to the consumers is maintained.

These guidelines are given with the understanding that any contamination can not only reduce the efficacy of the medicines but can also compromise the safety of the treatment provided. As homeopathic treatment is administered in therapeutic doses in the minute form, it is essential that extreme care and cleanliness is executed in the manufacturing of homeopathic medicines.

Since 2006, GMP guidelines have been imposed on all Homeopathic manufacturers by the Government of India, which came to effect from November 2008.

Good Manufacturing Practices 

Homeopathic medicines are prepared from various sources like plants, animals, metals, etc and need to be carefully handled from the very beginning of the collection process. As any contamination can lead to adverse undesirable effects, it is essential to follow certain standardized guidelines.

All homeopathic medicines should be produced in accordance with the requirements for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) laid down by the governing authorities and the specific regulations as given in established homeopathic pharmacopoeias.

Some of the important aspects that need to be addressed during manufacturing process as given by the governing bodies are Avoid Contamination: Contamination may involve the non-intended inclusion of other substances like toxins or infectious agents.

Avoid Toxicity: Homeopathic medicines are potentised, which involves serial dilution and the administering dose is decided accordingly. The dilutions for different potencies, which are prepared from mother tincture should be managed carefully so as to avoid any toxicity or adverse effects to the consumers.

Proper use of product: Any homeopathic product should be properly used by the consumers as per the practitioners instructions or as per the information provided in the enclosed documentation.

Homeopathic system of medicine is based on the principle of like cures like and the medicinal substances used are in a minimal dose and is considered to be highly effective. Hence utmost care and high level of ethical practices need to be followed while manufacturing homeopathic medicines.