Effect of Homeopathy Intervention on Depression in Women: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

English (OpenAlex)

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to systematically review randomized controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of homeopathy intervention given to women on depression and to conduct a meta-analysis of the available evidence. Materials and Methods: Systematic searches of Cochrane, PubMed, SCOPUS, WOS, EMBASE in five databases were conducted between February- March 2025. The risk of bias and the certainty of the evidence were assessed with the Cochrane bias risk tool ROB-2. Summary effect size measurements were calculated using random effects model estimation and reported as standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals. Reporting followed PRISMA guidelines. Results: A systematic literature review was conducted with 10 studies included in the analysis. A total of 636 people took part in the studies. Homeopathy intervention had a significant effect on depression (SMD:-0.44, 95% CI:-0.71 to -0.18, Z=3.26, p=0.001), and in the subgroup analysis, it was found to be more effective in women aged 40 years and older than in women aged 40 years (SMD:-0.47, 95% CI: -0.91 to -0.03, Z=2.08, p=0.004). In addition, it was found to have a significant effect on anxiety (SMD:-0.43, 95% CI:-0.69 to -0.17, Z=3.27, p=0.001) and fatigue (MD:-1.58, 95% CI: -2.78 to -0.39, Z=2.59, p=0.009). Conclusions: The study determined that homeopathic intervention in women was effective for depression; It was found that it provided a decrease in anxiety and depression levels. It is important to disseminate homeopathy treatment and ensure accessibility in solving psychological problems such as depression and anxiety that adversely affect women's health.