Article on Allergic Rhinitis: A Clinical and Homeopathic Perspective

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common chronic inflammatory disorder of the upper respiratory tract resulting from an immunologically mediated response to inhaled allergens. Sneezing, nasal itching, watery rhinorrhoea and nasal obstruction constitute its characteristic clinical manifestations, frequently accompanied by ocular symptoms and sleep disturbance. Although allergic rhinitis is rarely life-threatening, persistent disease can significantly impair quality of life, academic performance and occupational productivity. The present article reviews the clinical characteristics and pathophysiology of allergic rhinitis and discusses its relevance to individualized homeopathic case management. Particular emphasis is placed on detailed case-taking, identification of characteristic modalities and concomitant symptoms, and differentiation of allergic rhinitis from other causes of chronic nasal symptoms. Two illustrative clinical cases are presented to demonstrate individualized homeopathic case analysis. The current evidence concerning homeopathy in allergic rhinitis is also examined. Earlier clinical trials and systematic reviews have produced heterogeneous findings, while a recent randomized placebo-controlled trial published in 2026 did not demonstrate superiority of either standardized Galphimia glauca or individualized homeopathic treatment over placebo; interpretation was limited by substantial under-recruitment. Thus, while individualized homeopathic practice remains of interest to practitioners and researchers, current evidence does not establish homeopathy as a replacement for evidence-based management of allergic rhinitis. Rigorous clinical research with validated outcomes is required to clarify its therapeutic role.