Where the word came from, what it means today, how it differs from homoeopathy — and why, for patients, the practical question is how to use both safely.
In India, "allopathy" — or "English medicine", "angreji dawa" — is the everyday word for modern, conventional medicine. Many people search for what the word actually means. Here is a plain explanation.
The word "allopathy" was coined in the early 19th century by Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homoeopathy, from the Greek allos ("other") and pathos ("suffering"). He used it to describe treatments of his time that worked by producing an effect different from the disease, in contrast to his principle of similars. "Homoeopathy" itself comes from the Greek homoios ("similar") and pathos. Read more: how homoeopathy began.
Today the word is used loosely for modern medicine — the evidence-based medicine practised by MBBS doctors and specialists, using diagnostics, drugs, vaccines and surgery. Doctors of modern medicine rarely call themselves "allopaths"; in India the term is mostly used in conversation and in comparisons with AYUSH systems.
For a patient, the useful question is not which word is better, but what your situation needs — and whether treatments can be combined safely. Emergencies, serious infections, surgery and cancer need modern medicine first. Many people take homoeopathic care for long-standing complaints alongside their existing treatment.
Read homeopathy vs allopathy and taking homoeopathy with allopathic medicines.
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The everyday term in India for modern, conventional medicine. The word was coined by Samuel Hahnemann from the Greek allos ('other') and pathos ('suffering').
Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homoeopathy, in the early 19th century.
Modern medicine targets the diagnosed disease with drugs of measurable dose and strong trial evidence; homoeopathy individualises highly diluted medicines to the whole patient, and its evidence is debated.
In most situations, yes. Never stop prescribed medicines on your own, and tell every doctor everything you take.
This article is for general awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Homoeopathic treatment is individualised; responses vary from person to person and no specific outcome is promised or guaranteed. Continue any medication prescribed by your treating doctor, and seek urgent local medical care for any warning sign described above.
Related reading: Homeopathy vs allopathy · With allopathic medicines · How homoeopathy began · Homeopathy guide