La solidez de la investigación homeopática fundamental / The strength of fundamental homeopathic research

La investigación fundamental en homeopatía ha avanzado considerablemente en los últimos 20 años: desde estudios exploratorios con animales y plantas hasta la caracterización de los efectos sistémicos de los medicamentos homeopáticos y estudios in vitro con sistemas celulares aislados para evaluar los cambios en los mecanismos de adaptación celular y señalización intracelular frente a tratamientos homeopáticos variables. El número de artículos publicados a lo largo del tiempo ha permitido realizar varias revisiones sistemáticas. Recientemente, la demostración de que los medicamentos homeopáticos podrían modificar las funciones celulares a través de mecanismos epigenéticos (metilación y desmetilación de ADN) preparó el camino para un campo de investigación completamente nuevo. En paralelo, el descubrimiento de las nanopartículas y propiedades físicas específicas de las diluciones homeopáticas ha arrojado luz hacia un campo antes poco conocido, dado que se consideraba que las diluciones homeopáticas no consistían más que de agua. Así las cosas, los retos para el futuro conciernen a la demostración, o no, de la interrelación entre ambos fenómenos.

Fundamental research in homeopathy has much advanced in the past 20 years. From exploratory studies with animals and plants to the characterization of the systemic effects of homeopathic medicines and in vitro studies with isolated cell systems to assess changes in the mechanisms of cell adaptation and intracellular signaling facing variable homeopathic treatments. The amount of articles published over time enabled several systematic reviews. Recently, demonstration that homeopathic medicines might modify cell functions through epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation and demethylation) paved the road for a fully new field of research. In parallel, the discovery of nanoparticles and specific physical properties of homeopathic dilutions brought light to a previously poorly known field, as it was believed that homeopathic dilutions consist in nothing but water. Thus being, challenges for the future concern the demonstration, or not, of the interrelationship between both phenomena.

Efectos de las diluciones homeopáticas altas sobre los modelos in vitro: revisión de la literatura / Effects of high homeopathic dilutions on in vitro models: a review of the literature

Los efectos de las diluciones homeopáticas altas (HD, por sus siglas en inglés) son controvertidos debido a que superan el número de Avogadro. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión de la literatura sobre los efectos de las HD sobre los modelos in vitro. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en la base de datos PubMed de estudios que evaluaran las HD simples sobre modelos in vitro, publicados de 2007 en adelante. Resultados: 28 publicaciones cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión/exclusión. 26 estudios mostraron efectos evidentes de las HD simples sobre modelos in vitro. La mayor parte de tales estudios fueron realizados en países en donde la homeopatía ha alcanzado un alto nivel de institucionalización. Conclusiones: Los modelos in vitro evidencian de forma clara la actividad biológica de las HD superiores al número de Avogadro y dan cuenta de los efectos encontrados en la práctica clínica. La mayor parte de los estudios fueron realizados en países en donde la homeopatía es reconocida oficialmente, lo cual facilita el acceso a recursos para el desarrollo de la investigación.

the effects of homeopathic high dilutions (HDs) are controversial because they exceed Avogadro's number. Aim: to perform a literature review on the effects of HDs on in vitro models. Methods: a systematic search was performed in database PubMed for studies assessing simple HDs on in vitro models published from 2007 onward. Results: 28 publications met the inclusion/exclusion criteria; 26 studies demonstrated patent effects of simple HDs on in vitro models; most such studies were conducted in countries where homeopathy attained a high level of institutionalization. Conclusions: in vitro models patently evidence biological activity of HDs above Avogadro's number and account for effects found in clinical practice. Most studies were conducted in countries where homeopathy is officially recognized, which facilitates access to resources for the development of research.

Efectos de las diluciones homeopáticas altas sobre las plantas: revisión de la literatura / Effects of high homeopathic dilutions on plants: a review of the literature

Entre los supuestos no convencionales de la homeopatía, el uso de medicamentos en diluciones altas (HD, por sus siglas en inglés) es una causa de objeciones y escepticismo entre la comunidad científica, formada dentro del paradigma de la dependencia de la dosis de la farmacología clásica. La investigación que busca evidenciar los efectos de las HD homeopáticas recurre a varios modelos experimentales (in vitro, plantas y animales). Objetivo: Describir los resultados de estudios con alta calidad metodológica que han demostrado los efectos positivos de las HD homeopáticas sobre las plantas. Métodos: Tomando como fuente de referencia las revisiones publicadas hasta 2015, actualizamos la información añadiendo datos de estudios recientes incluidos en la base de datos PubMed. Resultados: De los 167 estudios experimentales analizados, 48 cumplieron los criterios mínimos de calidad metodológica, de los cuales 29 detectaron efectos específicos de las diluciones homeopáticas altas sobre las plantas mediante la comparación con controles adecuados. Conclusiones: A pesar de que la mayor parte de los experimentos presentaba una calidad metodológica por debajo del estándar, los estudios que emplearon sistemáticamente reproducibilidad y controles negativos demostraron indiscutibles efectos significativos de las HD homeopáticas sobre las plantas.

Among the non-conventional assumptions of homeopathy, the use of medicines in high dilutions (HD) is a cause for objections and skepticism among the scientific community, trained within the dose-dependency paradigm of classic pharmacology. Research aiming at evidencing the effects of homeopathic HD has resource to several experimental models (in vitro, plants and animals). Aim: To describe the results of studies with high methodological quality that demonstrated positive effects of homeopathic HD on plants. Methods: Taking reviews published until 2015 as reference source, we updated the information through addition of data from recent studies included in database PubMed. Results: From 167 experimental studies analyzed, 48 met the minimum criteria of methodological quality, from which 29 detected specific effects of homeopathic high dilutions on plants through comparison to adequate controls. Conclusions: Despite the substandard methodological quality of most experiments, studies with systematic use of negative controls and reproducibility demonstrated significant indisputable effects of homeopathic HD on plants.

The ion partition detected in homeopathically manufactured medicine cuprum metallicum and controls

Homeopathy is highly controversial. The main reason for this is its use of very highly dilute medicines (high homeopathic potencies, HHP), diluted beyond the Avogadro/Loschmidt limit. Research using Nano Tracking Analysis has demonstrated the presence of particles in HHPs. This study aims to verify the results of a previous publication that identified the ionic composition of these particles in all dilutions. We used Scanning Electron Microscopy & Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) to examine dilutions of a commonly used homeopathic medicine, an insoluble metal, Cuprum metallicum, for the presence of particles (NPs). The homeopathic medicines tested were specially prepared according to the European pharmacopoeia standards. We compared the homeopathic dilutions/dynamizations of copper with simple dilutions and dynamized lactose controls. We observed an ionic diversity common to all preparations including HHPs but also significant differences in the relative quantity of each ion between manufacturing lines of homeopathic copper and lactose controls. The probability that the observed differences could have occurred chance alone (especially above Avogadro limit) can be rejected at p < 0.001. The essential component of these homeopathic medicines is sodium hydrogen carbonate, modulated by some other elements and by its quantity, size and shape. Homeopathic medicines made of Cuprum metallicum do contain material with a specific ionic composition even in HHPs diluted beyond the Avogadro/Loschmidt limit. This specificity can be attributed to the manufacturing process. This material demonstrates that the step-by-step process (dynamized or not) does not match the theoretical expectations of a dilution process. The starting material and dilution/dynamization method influences the nature of these NPs. Further measurements are needed on other raw materials using the same controls (solvent and simply diluted manufacturing lines) to support these findings. The role of sodium bicarbonate must be carefully studied in the future.

In vitro evaluation of the effects of Viscum album homeopathic preparations on murine melanoma cells

Viscum album extract (VA) is a complementary treatment in cancer, with in vitro and in vivo cytotoxic effects on several tumor types when applied in phytochemical doses. However, highly diluted ethanolic homeopathic preparations' effects and mechanisms need further study. Aims:To assess the in vitro effects of highly diluted VA from the subspecies V. album abietis and V. album album at different potency levels in different dilution ratios on murine melanoma cells. Methodology:The VA mother tinctures (MT)from Abies alba (MTA) and Quercus robur (MTQ) were prepared with summer and winter samples, harvested in Switzerland. They were submitted to homeopathic ethanolic maceration and a subsequent dynamization process. MTA, MTQ and the following respective potencies were tested in B16F10 murine cells: 3x, 12x, 30x, 6cH, 12cH, 200cH, 2LM, 3LM, and 5LM. Dynamized water, dynamized and non-dynamized ethanol, and carboplatin were used as control groups. The mitochondrial activity and cell viability analysis were performed at 1, 24, 48, and 72 hours by in vitro incubation. MTA and MTQ harvested in summer, as well as 12x, 200cH and 5LM potencies were also tested to cell apoptosis and necrosis markers, reactive oxygens species (ROS) production, inflammatory cytokines profile, cell morphology, and migratory capacity. Results and discussion: MTA and MTQ induced a decrease in cell metabolism and higher cytotoxicity within 1 hour, with significant morphological changes and increased production of ROS and inflammatory cytokines. Both homeopathic dilutions 12x and 5LM showed an influence on cell metabolism, cell replication, and oxidative stress modulation with inflammatory cytokines, mitosis, and migration pattern changes. On the other hand, Quercus robur and Abies alba 200cH showed increased on cytotoxicity and ROS levels, respectively. Conclusion:The in vitro effects of Viscum album homeopathic solutions in melanoma cells highlight the promising antitumoral potential and reinforce the need for further research to better understanding their mechanisms of action.

Silicea terra200cH evaluated by two different spectroscopy methods: a pilot study

Spectroscopy has been shown to bea useful method to study the physicochemical properties of homeopathic preparations. Aim: In this pilot study, we comparedtwo methods (photon scattering and visible-light spectroscopy) in the physicalevaluation of Silicea terra200cH. Methodology: Italian test: Two sampleshave been examinedand compared: Silicea terra200cH and Sac lac200cH, both preparedin water solution, diluted and succussed according to German Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia(Cemon Lab, Italy).Lactose was includedbecause the first 3 potencies of Silicea terraaremadeby trituration in lactosepowder.Measurements were made using an innovative Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) camera developedby Daniele Gullà, called MIRA/CORA(proprietary name). Slight variations in chrominance and luminance due to micro-vibrational 3D phenomenawere analyzed.Allmeasurements have been performed in a dark room at a constant temperature of 22°C +/-0,2°C usingafilter with very narrow spectral bands (10 nm).The measurements have been repeated three times on both Silicea terra200cH and Sac lac200cHwithin a few minutes aftereach other.Brazilian test: In the second test, performed in Brazil, variations in absorbance were used to identify Silicea terra200cH compared with Sac lac200cH andcompared withanother control solution of non-succussed 30% alcohol, using six solvatochromic dyes, following the method developed by Cartwright [1,2]. Both homeopathic samples were imported from Italy(the same sample bottles used in the Italian test),in Brazil they have beendiluted 1:100 in 30% hydro-alcoholic solution, and submitted to 100 succussions using an automatic mechanical arm (Denise, AUTIC, Brazil) prior to being tested. Samples were inserted into dyes solutions and evaluated by visible spectroscopy (FEMTO Spectrophotometer, Brazil). Dyes were prepared in ethanol P.A., according to previous established methods [3]. Three series in triplicate were performed and the results were analyzed by ANOVA / Tukey, comparing both samples and the unsuccussed 30% hydroalcoholic control solution.Results: Italian test: Measurements of the mean entropy of the signals, statistically elaborated with T Student test,yielded a two tailed p value < 0.05, where the entropy of the signal recorded from the Silicea terra200cHsample was statistically lower than the 200cH Sac lacsample.Brazilian test: Among all tested dyes, only BDN(4-(Bis-(4-(dimethylamino)-phenyl)methylene)-1(4H)-naphthalenone) showed aninteraction with Silicea terra200cH, reproducing the conclusions obtained in [3].Conclusions: Two different spectroscopic methods were able to show signal differences betweenSilicea terra200cH andSac lac200cH, suggesting that changes in solvent organization could be involved in the homeopathic signaling process, along withchanges in dipole moments of solvent and dyes. The results are potentially in line witha recent publishedpaper [4], that supportsthe propositionthatthe lower entropy of the verum signal compared with controls could beexplained by increased coherent vibrations of the verum sample, as theoretically explained in previous literature [5].

The Materiality of Homeopathic Medicines. DynHom Research Program

Homeopathy is controversial because using highly dilute medicines (high homeopathic potencies, HHP) beyond the Avogadro/Loschmidt limit. Previous publications [1,2] using NMR relaxation revealed the involvement of nanobubbles and/or nanoparticles and/or nanometric superstructures in high potentizations. Nano Tracking Analyse (NTA) demonstrated the presence of particles in HHPs [3,4]. WithSEM-EDX [5] we observed an ionic diversity common to all preparations including HHPs and significant differences in the relative quantity of each ion between different homeopathic manufacturing lines and controls. FTIR spectroscopy [6] shows that the molecular composition is that of carbonates, primarily sodium bicarbonate.Methods:To observe the materiality of homeopathic medicines a multidisciplinary approach is necessary. In collaboration with several universities,we canobserve these medications with NMR, NTA, SEM-EDX, FTIR, pH,and EPA. Results:The essential component of all already studied homeopathic medicines is sodium hydrogen carbonate modulated by some other elements in a specific quantity, size,and shape. The probability that the observed results could have occurred just by random chance can be rejected(significantlyabove the Avogadro limit) p < 0,001.Conclusions:The homeopathic medicines do contain material with a specific ionic composition even in HHPs diluted beyond the Avogadro/Loschmidt limit. This specificity can be attributed to the manufacturing process. These results demonstrate that the step-by-step process (dynamized or not) does not match the theoretical expectations in a dilution process. The starting material and dilution/dynamization method influencethe nature of these NPs. The role of carbonates and sodium bicarbonate must be carefully studied in the future. Its aqueous solution is alkaline in nature but itis an amphoteric compound, which means that the compound has both acidic as well as alkaline character. The reaction with acids results in sodium salts and carbonic acid and the reaction with the basic solution producescarbonates and water. Specific electric fields are indeed detectable.

Viabilidade de sementes de espécies forrageiras com tratamentos em altas diluições e óleos essenciais homeopatizados / Feasibility of forage species seeds with high dilutions treatments and homeopathized essential oils

A alta viabilidade de sementes de espécies forrageiras é fundamental para um bom desempenho e estabelecimento das culturas a campo. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar o efeito do preparado homeopático Silicea terra 12 CH e a homeopatização de óleos essenciais de aroeira e alecrim-do-campo na 6CH na superação de dormência e germinação de sementes de Avena strigosa (Aveia preta), Lolium multiflorum (Azevém anual) e Paspalum notatum (Pensacola). Os experimentos foram conduzidos no Laboratório de Homeopatia e Saúde Vegetal da EPAGRI e no Laboratório de Sementes da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Lages/SC. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, com 50 sementes e 4 repetições para cada espécie. As sementes foram dispostas em papel germitest e condicionadas em câmaras de germinação. As espécies foram avaliadas quanto a viabilidade (1ª contagem) e com teste padrão de germinação indicado nas Regras de Análises de Sementes. Os dados foram analisados com auxílio do ambiente R, considerando o nível de 5% de significância. Os resultados encontrados indicaram que o preparado homeopático Silicea terra 12CH atuou na velocidade de germinação, promovendo maiores taxas germinativas para todas as sementes testadas durante a primeira contagem. O índice de germinação da espécie Pensacola foi superior com o uso de Silicea terra 12CH ao final do experimento, diferindo significativamente do controle. O uso de óleo essencial homeopatizado de alecrim-do- -campo e aroeira atuaram sobre a viabilidade de azevém-anual na primeira contagem. Preparados homeopáticos e óleo essencial homeopatizado podem auxiliar na quebra de dormência de sementes de espécies forrageiras.

The high viability of forage species seeds is fundamental for a good performance and establishment of crops in the field. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the homeopathic preparation Silicea terra 12 CH and the homeopathization of essential oils of mastic and rosemary-of-the-field in 6CH in overcoming dormancy and germination of Avena strigosa (black oat) seeds, Lolium multiflorum (anual Ryegrass) and Paspalum notatum (Pensacola). The experiments were conducted at the EPAGRI Homeopathy and Plant Health Laboratory and at the Seed Laboratory at the State University of Santa Catarina, Lages / SC. The experimental design was completely randomized, with 50 seeds and 4 replicates for each species. The seeds were placed on germitest paper and conditioned in germination chambers. The species were evaluated for viability (1st count) and with a standard germination test indicated in the Seed Analysis Rules. The data were analyzed with the aid of the R environment, considering the level of 5% of significance. The findings indicated that the homeopathic preparation Silicea terra 12CH acted at the germination speed promoting higher germination rates for all seeds tested during the first count. The germination index of the Pensacola species was higher with the use of Silicea terra 12CH at the end of the experiment, differing significantly from the control. The use of homeopathized essential oil of rosemary- -of-the-field and mastic influenced the viability of ryegrass in the first count. Homeopathic preparations and homeopathized essential oils can assist in breaking dormancy of seeds of forage species.

Particle characterisation of traditional homeopathically manufactured medicine cuprum metallicum and controls

Homeopathy is highly controversial. The main reason for this is its use of very highly dilute medicines (high homeopathic potencies, HHP), diluted beyond the Avogadro/Loschmidt limit. Research using several different methods has demonstrated the presence of particles, including nanoparticles of source material, in HHPs. This study aims to verify the results of a previous publication that detected the presence of particles in all dilutions. We used the Nano Tracking Analyzer (NTA) to examine dilutions of a commonly used homeopathic medicine, an insoluble metal, Cuprum metallicum, for the presence of particles. The homeopathic medicines tested were specially prepared according to the European pharmacopoeia standards. We compared the homeopathic dilutions/dynamizations with simple dilutions and controls including a soluble medicine. We observed the presence of solid material in all preparations including HHPs (except for pure water). The measurements showed significant differences in particle sizes distribution between homeopathic manufacturing lines and controls. Homeopathic medicines do contain material with a specific size distribution even in HHPs diluted beyond the Avogadro/Loschmidt limit. This specificity can be attributed to the manufacturing and potentization process. This material demonstrates that the step-by-step process (dynamized or not) does not match the theoretical expectations in a dilution process. The starting material and dilution/dynamization method influences the nature and concentration of these NPs.

Estudo dos efeitos de placebo X medicamento homeopático na totalidade sintomática característica em hipertensos / Pilot comparative study of the placebo effects and homoeopathic drugs, on the pressure levels of high blood pressure patients

Os autores realizaram um estudo piloto de investigação clínica, no ambulatório da Associação Paulista de Homeopatia, para verificar os efeitos de placebo e de medicamentos homeopáticos, escolhidos por totalidade sintomática característica individual, com um grupo de pacientes portadores de hipertensão arterial. Foi enfocada a capacidade de atuação do placebo e de dinamizações sucessivas de medicamento único, 6C, 12C, 30C e 200C, em doses repetidas, 2 vezes ao dia, na referida totalidade sintomatológica, considerando-se seu desaparecimento ou melhoria. Placebo e homeopatia foram fornecidos em frascos idênticos, a cada 4 semanas, começando pelo placebo, até atingir a 200C. Consultas de controle a cada 2 semanas. Concluise pela significância do medicamento homeopático, que não produziu praticamente agravações ou patogenesias, em doses repetidas. A partir da experiência, os autores sugeres condições melhores para feitura de trabalhos semelhantes, para uma melhor avaliação estatística. (AU)

Nineteen patients with idiopathic high blood pressure were subjected to treatment with placebo and homeopathic medicines. Their effects on the characteristic symptoms used to select the individual medication of each patients were analyzed. Statistically significant effect was found for the homeopathic drugs. No aggravation of pathogenetic symptoms practically occurred with doses taken twice daily. Based on their experience, the authors suggest how to improve studies in this field. (AU)

Homeopatia: formas de preparação dos medicamentos / Homeopathy: ways to prepare the medicine

A partir das colocações feitas pelo Dr. Pedro Mintz, em artigo intitulado "Dinamização em pressão ou vácuo relativo" (Revista de Homeopatia 172:26), gostaríamos de discutir alguns pontos. A busca de novas formas e novos caminhos para se obter o que Hahnemann classificou como cura é elogiável sob todos os aspectos. São muitos os caminhos que hoje se pesquisam, tendo o autor colocado mais um que, certamente, merecerá um estudo criterioso para se chegar às soluções que ele busca.

Pesquisas físico-químicas sobre as preparações homeopáticas: revisão sistemática e análise bibliométrica ­ parte 1 / Physical-chemical research on homeopathic preparations: review systematics and bibliometric analysis

Objetivo: A última revisão sistemática das pesquisas físico-químicas sobre preparações homeopáticas foi publicada em 2003. O objetivo do presente estudo foi atualizar e ampliar o estado atual dos conhecimentos na área das propriedades físico-químicas das preparações homeopáticas. Na parte 1 do estudo objetivamos apresentar um panorama da literatura quanto à qualidade e métodos utilizados nas publicações. Na parte 2 objetivamos identificar as técnicas experimentais mais interessantes. Desta maneira, esperamos estar na posição de gerar hipóteses significativas quanto ao possível modo de ação das preparações homeopáticas. Métodos: Foi adotado um procedimento com 2 etapas: 1) pesquisa ampla da literatura, seguida de análise bibliométrica e da qualidade das publicações e, 2) análise qualitativa minuciosa das pesquisas físico-químicas individuais localizadas. Na presente publicação relatamos a etapa 1). Realizamos uma busca nas principais bases científicas de dados de publicações relatando pesquisas físico-químicas da homeopatia desde a sua origem até o final de 2015. As publicações foram avaliadas através de um sistema de pontuação, o Manuscript Information Score (MIS). Foram coletadas informações sobre o país de origem dos estudos e as técnicas experimentais utilizadas. Resultados: Localizamos 183 publicações (versus 44 na revisão anterior), 122 delas com MIS ≥ 5. A taxa de publicações na área foi ˜2 por ano entre as década de 1970 e 2000. Depois aumentou para mais de 5,5 publicações por ano. [...] Conclusões: As pesquisas físico-químicas sobre as preparações homeopáticas está aumentando tanto na quantidade e na qualidade das publicações. (AU)

Objectives: The last systematic review of physicochemical research performed on homeopathic preparations was published in 2003. The aim of the study is to update and expand the current state of knowledge in the area of physicochemical properties of homeopathic preparations. In part 1 of the study, we aim to present an overview of the literature with respect to publication quality and methods used. In part 2, we aim to identify the most interesting experimental techniques. With this, we aim to be in a position to generate meaningful hypotheses regarding a possible mode of action of homeopathic preparations. Methods: A two-step procedure was adopted: (1) an extensive literature search, followed by a bibliometric and quality analysis on the level of publications and (2) a thorough qualitative analysis of the individual physicochemical investigations found. In this publication, we report on step (1). We searched major scientific databases to find publications reporting physicochemical investigations of homeopathy from its origin to the end of 2015. Publications were assessed using a scoring scheme, the Manuscript Information Score (MIS). Information regarding country of origin of the research and experimental techniques used was extracted. Results: We identified 183 publications (compared to 44 in the last review), 122 of which had an MIS ‡5. The rate of publication in the field was *2 per year from the 1970s until 2000. Afterward, it increased to over 5.5 publications per year. [...]Conclusions: Physicochemical research into homeopathic preparations is increasing both in terms of quantity and quality of the publications. (AU)

Pesquisas físico-químicas sobre as preparações homeopáticas: revisão sistemática e análise bibliométrica ­ parte 1 / Physical-chemical research on homeopathic preparations: review systematics and bibliometric analysis

Objetivo: A última revisão sistemática das pesquisas físico-químicas sobre preparações homeopáticas foi publicada em 2003. O objetivo do presente estudo foi atualizar e ampliar o estado atual dos conhecimentos na área das propriedades físico-químicas das preparações homeopáticas. Na parte 1 do estudo objetivamos apresentar um panorama da literatura quanto à qualidade e métodos utilizados nas publicações. Na parte 2 objetivamos identificar as técnicas experimentais mais interessantes. Desta maneira, esperamos estar na posição de gerar hipóteses significativas quanto ao possível modo de ação das preparações homeopáticas. Métodos: Foi adotado um procedimento com 2 etapas: 1) pesquisa ampla da literatura, seguida de análise bibliométrica e da qualidade das publicações e, 2) análise qualitativa minuciosa das pesquisas físico-químicas individuais localizadas. Na presente publicação relatamos a etapa 1). Realizamos uma busca nas principais bases científicas de dados de publicações relatando pesquisas físico-químicas da homeopatia desde a sua origem até o final de 2015. As publicações foram avaliadas através de um sistema de pontuação, o Manuscript Information Score (MIS). Foram coletadas informações sobre o país de origem dos estudos e as técnicas experimentais utilizadas. Resultados: Localizamos 183 publicações (versus 44 na revisão anterior), 122 delas com MIS ≥ 5. A taxa de publicações na área foi ˜2 por ano entre as década de 1970 e 2000. Depois aumentou para mais de 5,5 publicações por ano. [...] Conclusões: As pesquisas físico-químicas sobre as preparações homeopáticas está aumentando tanto na quantidade e na qualidade das publicações. (AU)

Objectives: The last systematic review of physicochemical research performed on homeopathic preparations was published in 2003. The aim of the study is to update and expand the current state of knowledge in the area of physicochemical properties of homeopathic preparations. In part 1 of the study, we aim to present an overview of the literature with respect to publication quality and methods used. In part 2, we aim to identify the most interesting experimental techniques. With this, we aim to be in a position to generate meaningful hypotheses regarding a possible mode of action of homeopathic preparations. Methods: A two-step procedure was adopted: (1) an extensive literature search, followed by a bibliometric and quality analysis on the level of publications and (2) a thorough qualitative analysis of the individual physicochemical investigations found. In this publication, we report on step (1). We searched major scientific databases to find publications reporting physicochemical investigations of homeopathy from its origin to the end of 2015. Publications were assessed using a scoring scheme, the Manuscript Information Score (MIS). Information regarding country of origin of the research and experimental techniques used was extracted. Results: We identified 183 publications (compared to 44 in the last review), 122 of which had an MIS ‡5. The rate of publication in the field was *2 per year from the 1970s until 2000. Afterward, it increased to over 5.5 publications per year. [...]Conclusions: Physicochemical research into homeopathic preparations is increasing both in terms of quantity and quality of the publications. (AU)

Effects of additional agitation process on the spectrophotometric profiles of homeopathic high dilutions

INTRODUCTION: Conventional homeopathy advocates giving 10 strokes (agitation/succussions) to a prescription bottle containing liquid dilution, before taking it. To scientifically support such activity, it must be based on studies on the physicochemical aspects of the memory of water and agitated water chains, supplemented with spectrometry. OBJECTIVE: To analyze spectrometric profiles of homeopathic high dilutions, comparing additionally agitated and non-agitated dilutions, and to define differences according to each dilution´s kingdom. METHODOLOGY: Homeopathic dilutions were prepared using a ratio of 1:100 obtaining dilutions from 1cH to 15cH. Measurements of absorbance of 15cH dilutions were performed at 340 nm and 200 nm, with and without additional agitation. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were found between agitated and non-agitated dilutions (p <0.05) for Apis mellifica, Bufo rana, and Calcium iodatum, with a decrease in the mean value of absorbance (340 nm) in agitated solutions. For A nica montana, Matricaria chamomilla, Coffea arabica, Pulsatilla nigricans, Calcium iodatum and Natrum muriaticum, the absorbance values increased; these values decreased for Apis and Bufo. In addition, measurements were performed with a shorter wavelength (200 nm); it was observed that there are significant differences for all homeopathic dilutions studied. Additionally, when comparing the mean values of the absorbance for each kingdom, and observing the agitation factor, a statistically significant difference was found in the animal kingdom (p<0.05), having lower absorbance for agitated dilutions. CONCLUSION: Comparisons of the spectrometric profiles of agitated and non-agitated solutions allow to observe that there is a difference of the absorbance when comparing a previously agitated solution and a solution with no agitation before taking it.

Organoterápicos a partir de tecidos de carneiro: relato etnográfico e preparação / Organotherapy medicines from sheep: ethnographic report and preparation

Organoterápicos (OT) são medicamentos diluídos e agitados, produzidos a partir de órgãos de animais saudáveis e utilizados como complemento ao tratamento homeopático ou convencional. As matérias-primas (matrizes) disponíveis no país não ofereciam rastreabilidade ou informações como a origem do material preparado. Este artigo apresenta um relato etnográfico e descreve a produção de matrizes de OTs a partir de tecidos de carneiro nas proporções (escalas) decimal, centesimal e cinquenta milesimal. Foram obtidos 70 diferentes órgãos, partes de órgãos e algumas composições, com informações completas sobre a origem e rastreabilidade...

Organotherapy (OT) employs serially diluted and agitated medicines prepared with organs of healthy animals as adjuvant to homeopathic or conventional treatment. The starting-substances for OT available in Brazil have no traceability and there is no information as to their origin. In the present article we present an ethnographic report of organ collection and preparation of 70 new OT medicines from sheep tissue in the decimal, centesimal and 50 milesimal scales which meet all traceability requirements...

La memoria del agua, una historia que ya no puede soslayarse / The memory of water, a story that can no longer be ignored

Toda esta historia inició hace millones de años, pero fue hasta que Samuel Hahnemann desarrolló el método homeopático y propuso dinamizar los medicamentos homeopáticos (que no es otra cosa que triturar y mezclar con lactosa y diluir y agitar en alcohol/agua) que se empezó a estudiar el tema. Recientemente, el Dr. Luc Montaigner, ganador del Premio Nobel, demostró la capacidad que tiene el agua para guardar información electromagnética emitida por el ADN de ciertos microorganismos y conservarla. Una vez que los microorganismos fueron eliminados por filtrado del cultivo, se pudo ver que dicha información era capaz de favorecer la reaparición de los microorganismos que las emitieron. Esto se relaciona íntimamente con los trabajos de Jacques Benveniste, y éstos, a su vez, con los postulados de la Homeopatía emitidos por Samuel Hahnemann, hace doscientos años...

This history started a million years ago, but it was until Samuel Hahnemann developed the homeopathic method and proposed to Dynamise the homeopathic medicines (which is no other thing that to triturate and mix with lactose and dilute and shake in water /alcohol), that the matter began to be studied. Recently Dr. Luc Montaigner, Nobel Prize winner demonstrated the ability of water to store electromagnetic information issued by DNA from of certain microorganisms and keep it. Once the microorganisms were eliminated by culture filtrate, he saw that the electromagnetic information optained was capable of promoting the reappearance of microorganisms that had issued it. This is closely related to the work of Jacques Benveniste and these, in turn, with the principles of homeopathy issued by Samuel Hahnemann, two hundred years ago...

Los medicamentos homeopáticos y la expresión genética: sus repercusiones en el concepto de fuerza vital / Homeopathic medicines and Gene expression: its impact on life force concept

Dos de los obstáculos que han impedido la difusión e incorporación de la Homeopatía en los planos nacional e internacional, son comprender la estructura de las ultradiluciones así como entender y explicar cuál es, o cuáles son, los mecanismos de acción de dichas ultradiluciones para efectuar respuestas biológicas en organismos o cultivos celulares que llamamos respuestas curativas. El objetivo del presente trabajo es mostrar brevemente la información y los artículos científicos que permiten explicar y sustentar uno de los varios mecanismos de acción de los medicamentos homeopáticos en ultradiluciones, como es la modulación de la expresión genética.

Two of the obstacles that have prevented the dissemination and incorporation of Homeopathy at national and international levels , they are to understand the structure of the ultradiluciones and understand and explain what is , or what are the mechanisms ultradiluciones action to effect such biological responses in organisms or cell cultures we call healing responses . The objective ofthis paper is to briefly display the information and scientific articlesthat explain and support one of several mechanisms of action ultradiluciones homeopathic medicines , as is the modulation of expression gene .

La selección de la potencia en la prescripción homeopática / The selection of the power in homeopathic prescribing

La prescripción del medicamento homeopático no se limita a la observación detallada de los síntomas del paciente ni a la habilidad para identificar al remedio más semejante. En cumplimiento a lo dicho por el doctor Samuel Hahnemann, en cuanto a que el tratamiento homeopático tiene el objetivo de producir una enfermedadartificial ligeramente más fuerte que la enfermedad natural que se pretende curar, el médico debe apegarse a ciertas consideraciones para elegir la potencia correcta que le permita restablecer la salud del paciente de la manera más rápida, suave y duradera posible.En este artículo se exponen aspectos teóricos y reflexiones basadas en la práctica que ayudarán a que el médico homeópata se forme un criterio más amplio sobre el uso de potencias bajas, medias y altas, de acuerdo con los principios desemejanza e individualidad.

The prescription of homeopathic medicine is not limited to the detailed observation of the patient’s symptoms or the ability to identify the most similar remedy. In compliance with the said by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, in that homeopathic treatment aims to produce a slightly stronger artificial disease that natural disease to be cured, the physician must adhere to certain considerations to choose the correct power that restores the health of the patient as quickly, soft and durable as possible. In this article theoretical and practice-based reflections that will help the homeopath a broader view on the use of low, medium and high, according to the principles of similarity and individuality powers to form aspects are discussed.

Evidence in support of gene regulatory hypothesis: Gene expression profiling manifests homeopathy effect as more than placebo

Background: Use of ultra-high diluted remedies in homeopathy and their claimed efficacy in curing diseases has been challenged time and again by non-believers despite many evidence-based positive results published in favor of their efficacy in curing/ameliorating disease symptoms. Aims: To test the ability of ultra-high diluted homeopathic remedies beyond Avogadro’s limit, if any, in manifesting gene modulating effects in controlled in vitro experimental model. Methods: Since cancer cells manifest aberrant epigenetic gene expressions, we conducted global microarray gene expression profiling of HeLa cells (an established epigenetic model of HPV18 positive cell line) treated with two different potentized homeopathic remedies, namely, Condurango 30c and Hydrastis canadensis 30C (used in the treatment of cancer), as compared to that of placebo (succussed alcohol 30c). Results: Data revealed distinctly different expression patterns of over 100 genes as a consequence of treatment with both homeopathc remedies compared to placebo. Conclusion: Results indicate that action of the potentized drugs was “more than placebo” and these ultra-highly diluted drugs acted primarily through modulation of gene expression.

Introdução: O uso de medicamentos homeopáticos ultra-diluídos e a sua presumível eficácia na cura de doenças têm sido reiteradamente contestados por céticos, apesar dos muitos resultados positivos, baseados em evidências, demonstrando a sua eficácia na cura/melhora de sintomas patológicos. Objetivos: Testar a possível capacidade de medicamentos homeopáticos diluídos além do limite de Avogadro para apresentar efeitos de modulação genética em modelo experimental in vitro. Métodos: Sendo que as células neoplásicas manifestam expressões epigenéticas aberrantes, investigamos através de micro-arranjo o perfil global de expressão genética de células HeLa (modelo epigenético já estabelecido de linhas celulares HPV18 positivas) tratadas com 2 medicamentos homeopáticos dinamizados, a saber, Condurango 30c e Hydrastis canadensis 30c (utilizados no tratamento de neoplasias) comparados com um placebo (álcool sucussionado 30c). Resultados: Os dados indicaram diferentes perfis de expressão em mais de 100 genes nas células tratadas com os medicamentos homeopáticos por comparação ao placebo. Conclusão: Os resultados indicam que o efeito dos medicamentos dinamizados foi “mais do que placebo” e que essa ação foi principalmente mediada por modulação da expressão genética.

Crescimento e produção de cumarina em plantas de chambá (Justicia pectoralis Jacq. ) tratadas com isoterápico / Growth and production of coumarin in the plants of chambá (Justicia pectoralis Jacq. ) treated with isoterapic

Este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar a resposta a dinamizações do isoterápico Justicia no crescimento e na produção de cumarina em Justicia pectoralis. O experimento foi conduzido na Universidade Federal de Viçosa. O delineamento estatístico foi inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições e seis tratamentos, totalizando 24 parcelas experimentais, sendo cada parcela constituída de uma planta por vaso. Os tratamentos foram constituídos das dinamizações 3CH, 6CH, 12CH, 18CH, 24CH e 30CH, do isoterápico Justicia. A aplicação dos tratamentos iniciou após o plantio das mudas, sendo pulverizada a parte aérea, em intervalos semanais. Após quatro meses do plantio as plantas foram colhidas. Foram avaliadas a matéria fresca e seca das folhas e caules a matéria fresca e seca da inflorescência, e a matéria fresca e seca total. Foram pesadas amostras de 200 mg das folhas e caules das plantas secas. As amostras foram devidamente armazenadas até a realização das análises químicas. A quantificação da cumarina (1-2 benzopirona) nas amostras foi feita em Cromatógrafo Líquido de Alta Eficiência. A matéria fresca de folhas e caules, a matéria fresca total e o rendimento de cumarina variaram em função das dinamizações do isoterápico. Os resultados confirmam o efeito de preparações homeopáticas na planta demonstrando que a homeopatia nos vegetais, mesmo na Lei da Igualdade tem efeitos potenciais.

The studied aimed to evaluate the responses to dynamizations of Justicia isoterapic in growth and coumarin production in Justicia pectoralis. The studies were carried out at the Universidade Federal de Viçosa. The statistical design was completely randomized, with four replicates and six treatments, 24 experimental plots, one plant per pot. The treatment were dynamizations 3CH, 6CH, 12CH, 18CH, 24CH and 30CH Justicia isoterapic. The applications of the treatments begun are planting seedlings, the aerial part being sprayed, at weekly intervals. After four months of planting, the plants were harvested. Were evaluated fresh and dry matter of stem and leaves, fresh and dry matter of inflorecense, and fresh and dry matter total. Were weighed samples on 200 mg of leaves and stems of dried plants. The samples were properly stored at quimical analyses. The quantification of coumarin (1-2 benzopyrone) in the samples was done in High Resolution Liquid Chromatography. The fresh matter of leaves and stems, the fresh matter total and a production of coumarin varied as a function of dynamization of isoterapic. The results confirm the effect of homeopathics preparations in the plants demonstrating that homeopathy in vegetables even in the Equality Law has potential effect.