Spain’s Health Ministry issues warning on homeopathy as report finds no evidence of effectiveness

On 21 April 2026, Spain’s Ministry of Health announced that the AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios) had published a technical report titled Homeopatía y productos homeopáticos. The report concludes that there is no scientific evidence supporting homeopathy as an effective therapeutic tool, and that its effects are comparable to placebo.

According to AEMPS, the review analysed dozens of systematic studies and found that any apparent benefits disappear in more rigorous clinical trials. It also notes that at common dilutions used in homeopathy, such as 12 CH, it is mathematically impossible for a single molecule of the original substance to remain.

Homeopathic products are not banned in Spain, but the report makes clear that Health Ministry officials see a risk in replacing treatments with proven efficacy with products that lack scientific support, because this can lead patients to abandon necessary medical care.

What the report actually found

According to the evaluation, there is no reliable scientific evidence that homeopathy can treat or prevent diseases. The review examined available clinical studies and concluded that any perceived benefits are consistent with placebo effects rather than measurable medical outcomes.

Health authorities warn that relying on homeopathy instead of evidence-based treatments could delay proper diagnosis and care. In certain cases, this may lead to worsening conditions, particularly where early medical intervention is critical. The report also highlights concerns about how these products are presented to consumers, stressing that implied health benefits without scientific backing can be misleading.

Millions still use homeopathy in Spain

Despite the official warning, homeopathy continues to be used across Spain. Estimates suggest that around 5 per cent of the population has used homeopathic products within the past year, representing more than two million people.

However, usage patterns indicate that most people do not rely on it as a primary form of treatment. Instead, homeopathy is typically used alongside conventional medicine, often for mild symptoms or as a complementary approach. Longer-term data suggests that while public awareness of alternative therapies remains relatively high, consistent or exclusive use is much lower. This reflects a broader trend in which interest does not necessarily translate into full reliance.

Why belief remains widespread

One of the key challenges identified by health authorities is the gap between scientific evidence and public perception. Surveys have shown that a significant proportion of the population believes homeopathy has some scientific basis, even though clinical research does not support this view.

Several factors contribute to this belief. The idea that “natural” treatments are inherently safer continues to appeal to many consumers. In addition, anecdotal success stories, personal recommendations and marketing language can reinforce positive perceptions, even in the absence of evidence.

There is also frequent confusion between complementary therapies and evidence-based medicine. While some alternative practices may be used alongside conventional care without harm, health authorities stress that this does not make them effective treatments in themselves.

What this means for patients

The Ministry of Health has not banned homeopathic products, and they remain available in pharmacies across Spain. However, they are subject to regulatory requirements, including strict labelling rules that prevent them from claiming unproven therapeutic benefits.

For anyone in Spain using homeopathy, the key point is simple: it shouldn’t be used instead of proper medical treatment, particularly for serious illnesses. Doctors and pharmacists are encouraged to guide patients towards evidence-based options and ensure that treatment decisions are based on reliable medical advice.

A wider shift in health policy

Spain’s position reflects a broader trend across Europe, where authorities are increasingly scrutinising therapies that lack scientific backing. Governments and health agencies are placing greater emphasis on combating misinformation and improving public understanding of medical evidence.

By formally concluding that homeopathy does not work beyond a placebo effect, Spain’s health authorities are reinforcing the importance of evidence-based medicine in protecting public health. The report is also part of a wider strategy aimed at improving transparency and helping patients make informed choices, particularly in a landscape where alternative therapies remain widely accessible.