Homoeopathic Treatment Of Psoriasis Using Fifty-Millesimal (LM) Potency: A Case Report.

Context: Psoriasis is a chronic, proliferative, and inflammatory skin disease related to the systemic manifestation of numerous organs. The typical lesion comprises red, scaly, sharply demarcated, indurated plaques, especially over the extensor surfaces and scalp. The degree and severity vary after some time and between people. Morphological variations are normal; both hereditary and environmental factors play important roles in etiology and pathogenesis.Psoriasis is very difficult to treat due to its chronicity. As a medical system, Homoeopathy treats both patients' physical ailments and overall wellness. The use of highly potentized homoeopathic anti-miasmatic intercurrent medicines will be very beneficial in dealing with this. Fifty-millesimal (LM) potency was a great discovery by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann. While treating numerous chronic illnesses, he was able to quickly relieve symptoms without any aggravation by using fifty-millesimal (LM) potency. Case Report: The present case report is of 24-year-old male patient having psoriasis for one year. This case report describes the homoeopathic management of psoriasis using fifty-millesimal (LM) potency. On the basis of presenting sign and symptoms, Arsenic Album 30C was prescribed with frequent repetitions after repertorisation. During follow-ups, Arsenic Album 1LM was prescribed in to accelerate the cure. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that tends to recur. To prevent the recurrence, Psorinum 1000C was prescribed as an intercurrent anti-miasmatic medicine in a single dose during the course of treatment. Psorinum is a nosode that was chosen for therapy since it is recommended when symptoms reappear and the best selected homoeopathic medicine is not very effective. Psorinum was prescribed in this case to clear the miasmatic obstruction because the Arsenic Album was only temporarily easing the complaints. Result: The patient has exhibited improvement in their mental state and quick alleviation from physical issues after receiving multiple doses of Arsenic Album 1LM and a single dose of Psorinum 1000C, all without their symptoms getting worse. The patient's condition was followed up on at every appointment for a considerable amount of time, and no new concerns had surfaced as of yet. Conclusion: This case report shows favourable results of homoeopathic medicine in fifty-millesimal (LM) potency. Therefore, it can be concluded that using fifty-millesimal (LM) potency of accurately selected homoeopathic medicine will shorten the cure process without the aggravation of symptoms. Further research studies are required to explore the efficacy of fifty-millesimal (LM) potency of homoeopathic medicine in treatment of chronic illnesses.

Lichen Planus Treated with Individualized Homeopathic Medicine, A Case Report.

Context: Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic lichenoid inflammatory disease of the skin, mucosa and appendages. The classic LP symptom is a dense infiltration of inflammatory T cells moving in the upper dermis and arranged in a band-like pattern. Lichen planus has an undetermined aetiology; however, it is known to have immune-mediated pathogenesis. Lichen planus cannot be cured, although treatment can lessen symptoms and shield against further problems. Antihistamines, PUVA (psoralen plus ultraviolet) treatment, retinoic acid, tacrolimus ointment, pimecrolimus cream, as well as corticosteroids are among the most often used therapies. To treat Lichen planus, individualized homeopathic medicine (iHOM) has shown excellent success. Methods: The case was documented at the dermatology OPD (Outpatient Department) of Dr. DY Patil Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Centre. A 32-year-old male patient with lichen planus was treated with individualized homeopathic medicine (iHOM) from March 25, 2021, to August 12, 2021. The results were evaluated at the follow-up visits. An evaluation based on the modified Naranjo criteria was carried out to determine if the alterations were brought on by homeopathic medication. Results: Over a five-month observation period, iHOM medicine produced positive results that physicians may utilize as an additional form of treatment for lichen planus. Conclusion: Individualized homeopathic medicine (iHOM) Nitric acid 30C was prescribed based on the totality of symptoms. Within 5 months, the disease's progression was halted, the itching was controlled, and the lesions flattened.

A Case of Palmoplantar Psoriasis treated by Individualised Homoeopathic Treatment: A Case Report.

Introduction: Psoriasis which affects the skin of palm and soles is called as Palmoplantar Psoriasis. The exact cause of it is unknown. It has predominantly hyperkeratotic plaques, thick scaly skin or an overlapping of both of them. Also called as chronic disease which produces functional disability or significant disfigurement and does substantial impairment of person's life. Topical therapy, light therapy, oral medications are part of conventional treatment which offers only a palliative effect. Besides conventional treatment patient choose Homoeopathy because it's a gentle and safe method of treatment that would appear to have positive effects in treatment of Palmoplantar Psoriasis. Summary: A 48 years old Male presented with dry, rough cracked skin with intense itching and burning on both palms and right sole. As he was tabla teacher his day to day activities were hampered. After proper case taking and Repertorization by Kentian approach, Sulphur 1M was prescribed after considering all general and particular characteristic symptoms. The repertory used was SYNTHESIS REPERTORY 8.1 from the Homoeopathic software RADAR. After 3 doses of Sulphur 1M at the gap of 2 months & at the end of 8 months, Re-epithelialisation was seen with an absence of itching and burning and no cracks in skin. This evidence based case report is an example of a successful Homoeopathic Management in cases of Palmoplantar Psoriasis with Kent's approach as Homoeopathy does not treat the disease but the diseased individual.

Evidence-Based Study of Enlarged Adenoid Treated with Homoeopathic Medicine: A Case Report.

Background: Adenoid is a mass of lymphoid tissue seen in the posterior nasopharyngeal wall, generally seen in the pediatric age group, and it disappears as age advances till puberty. Patients with recurrent allergic rhinitis, otitis media, or persistent nasopharyngeal obstruction is associated with adenoid hypertrophy can be considered for adenoidectomy. Objective: To evaluate the potential role of Individualised Homeopathic medicine in managing allergic rhinitis and troublesome symptoms of upper respiratory tract in case of Enlarged adenoid. Method: An 8-year-old boy came with complaints of Allergic rhinitis, snoring, and recurrent upper respiratory tract infection. He had taken treatment for the same from modern medicine, but still, a recurrence of symptoms occurred. His radiological investigations showed grade II Adenoid Hypertrophy. The patient was advised surgical intervention, but their parents were unwilling to the same so the patient came for Homoeopathic Management. Individualized Homeopathic Medicine Calcarea carbonicum 200 C was prescribed to the patient. The patient's condition significantly improved during the course of his five years of treatment; his snoring has decreased, his allergic manifestations have diminished, and monthly check-ups have revealed that the patient's general and particular condition are improving. indicating the positive result of homeopathic medicine in the treatment of enlarged adenoid. Assessment of outcome is based on Radiological reports and modified Naranjo criteria. Result: Homoeopathic medicine Calcarea Carb 200 C is given to the patient based on the totality of symptoms. The incidence of allergic rhinitis has also declined following treatment. Furthermore, there has been a decrease in the grade of adenoid hypertrophy and a noticeable improvement in symptoms. Conclusion: This is a single case where evidence shows that complete patient recovery occurs with individualized Homoeopathic Medicine. this is single case study and more researches, observational studies and randomized control trials are required to ascertain homeopathy's efficacy in managing enlarged Adenoids.

Palmoplantar Keratoderma Treated with Individualized Homoeopathic Medicine: A Case Report.

Introduction: Palmoplantar keratoderma is an abnormal thickening of the skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The classification of palmoplantar keratoderma depends on the clinical characteristics and whether it is hereditary or acquired. The traditional approach tries to soften and minimize skin thickness. The usual treatment choices include emollients, keratolytics like salicylic acid or urea, antifungal cream or pills, as well as topical retinoids/calcipotriol and systemic retinoids. However, the persistent use of such medications frequently exhausts the patients because the problem returns as soon as the local applications are discontinued. Methods: The case was recorded in the dermatological department of Dr DY Patil HMC & RC. A 27-year-old female patient prediagnosed with Palmoplantar Keratoderma was treated with individualized homeopathic medicine (iHOM) between 25th February 2021 to 22nd July 2021. During the follow-up visits outcome was assessed. To assess whether the changes were due to homeopathic medicine a modified Naranjo criteria was performed. Based on the totality of symptoms, individualized homeopathic medicine Petroleum 30C was given. Results: The patient was successfully treated for palmoplantar keratoderma with homeopathic Petroleum 30C over five months. Cracks and thickening of skin on the palms and soles resolved completely with no pain and itching. Conclusion: Individualized homeopathic treatment of palmoplantar keratoderma is possible and offers a gentle, non-invasive alternative to pharmaceutical use.

Safety Assessment of Ultra High Dilutions of Camphora officinarum: A Preclinical Investigation.

Background: Camphora officinarum (CO) is a commonly used homeopathic remedy for treating colds, collapse, and recurrent eruptive illnesses. Objective: Due to the non-availability of safety data on CO, the current study intended to determine the oral toxicity of CO in its ethanol-potentized dilutions 6C, 30C, and 200C in Wistar albino rats as per OECD guidelines. Materials and methods: A single oral dose of CO-6C, 30C, and 200C (2000 µl/kg) was administered, and the animals were monitored for behavior and mortality for up to 14 days in an acute toxicity study. In the subacute study, the effects of daily oral administration of CO-6C, 30C, and 200C (200 µl/kg) for 28 days were observed for clinical signs, change in body weight, and mortality. Hematological, biochemical, and histopathological analyses were assessed and organ weights were determined. Results: Results indicate no mortality of CO in its potencies in the acute toxicity study and was found to be safe at 2000 µl/kg dosage in the subacute toxicity study. CO (200 µl/kg/day) did not show any signs of toxicity in the hematological, biochemical, and histopathological analyses, along with organ weights. Conclusion: In conclusion, the findings suggest that CO in potencies of 6C, 30C, and 200C is safe up to a single oral dose of 2000 µl/kg body weight, and the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) was determined to be greater than 200 µl/kg/day.

Low Concentrations of Wyethia Helenioides-derived Flavonoids as Anti-Inflammatory Against Allergic Rhinitis.

Context: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common immune disease of the nasal mucosa, and anti-allergenic medications provide only momentary relief. Multiple factors, such as rising pollution, especially in urban areas; dust particles, such as from air conditioners; house mites; and the use of chemicals and aromatic products can stimulate AR. Objective: The literature review intended to examine the effectiveness of homoeopathic remedies in immune- and inflammatory-model systems based on the basic homoeopathic principle-the law of similarity of pharmacological action at the cellular level-and to evaluate the effects of dilution or dynamization on the drug activity of Wyethia tested under controlled settings, interpreting data based on similarity. Design: The research team performeda narrative review by searching Google scholar & Pubmed databases. The search usedthe keywords "Wyethia Helenioides", "Allergic Rhinitis", "Homoeopathy", "Homeopathy", "Anti-inflammatory", "Invitro", "Invivo", "Clinical Trial", "Case report" & "Flavanoids". Setting: The study took place at Department of Homoeopathic Materia Medica, Dr. D Y Patil Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Institute, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India. Results: Clinical observations indicated that the homoeopathic preparations of Wyethia in low concentrations, even beyond Avogadro's number, may have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The hormesis concept-a biphasic dose response with a low-dose stimulation or beneficial effect and a high dose inhibitory or toxic effect-may explain the effects against human mast cells(HMC-1s). Conclusions: Clinical observations indicate that the homoeopathic preparations of Wyethia in low concentrations, even beyond Avogadro's number, might show anti-inflammatory properties that the hormesis concept against HMC-1 can explain. The current research team thus anticipates that the analysis of this little-known material will provide a novel and insightful look at the state-of-the-art of homoeopathy without drawing any firm judgments for or against this treatment. Although it could be challenging to accept, it's currently the most receptive stance.

HRI London 2023: The Homeopathy Research Community Reunites after a 4-Year Hiatus, Sparking Fresh Collaborations between Researchers 'Old and New'.

The Homeopathy Research Institute's (HRI) 5th international research conference took place in the heart of London, from 16th to 18th June 2023. With 230 attendees from 27 countries, HRI's conferences remain truly international. HRI London 2023 will be remembered for its inspiring blend of 'old and new', with a programme notable for the maturity of the evidence presented by experienced names drawing on decades of work, as well as the enthusiasm and skill of up-and-coming researchers who took the floor to present their new findings. In this report, we present scientific highlights from the event.

The Three Powerful Traditions of Thinking that Constitute Homeopathy.

By means of a historical, classical philological and philosophical approach, this paper attempts to demonstrate that homeopathy is based on three powerful traditions of thinking, which can be traced back to Ancient Greece's pre-Socratic era. Actually, it seems to be constituted by what may be termed lógos-, hómoion- and iásthai-thinking: that is, thinking in terms of rationality, similarity and healing. By contrast, modern medicine tends to be aligned with just one of these traditions, at the expense of the others, this being not without risk and adverse effects. It is mainly determined by the first type of rationality that genealogically derives from, and is therefore compatible with, the logic of economics whose predominance in the health care systems of modern societies is progressively rising. Homeopathy, however, may not be sufficiently and fairly understood without taking into account the complementary forms of thinking on which it also rests, such as the principle of similarity in an all-encompassing sense, and ancient healing knowledge in the tradition of catharsis. As a corollary of being essentially constituted by the three, homeopathy may persistently be in need of a dynamic equilibrium of its three constituent bases. Attempts to approach homeopathy from only one of the indicated modes of thinking fail to grasp its essence and result in figments or caricatures of what homeopathy was originally meant to be.

Clinical Outcomes in Chronic Conditions: Findings from a Homeopathy Teaching Clinic using the MYCaW Instrument.

BACKGROUND: The Academy of Homeopathy Education is a US-based accredited teaching institution offering homeopathy education services to professional and medically licensed homeopathy students. This study reports on clinical outcomes from the teaching clinic from 2020 to 2021. METHODS: Data collected using the patient-generated outcome measure, the Measure Yourself Concerns and Wellbeing (MYCaW), were anonymized. Mean MYCaW values for initial and subsequent consultations were analyzed for the degree of change across the intervention period in 38 clients. Each client listed up to two complaints. MYCaW scores between initial and subsequent consultations were analyzed for the degree of change (delta) across the intervention period. RESULTS: A total of 95 body system-related symptoms were analyzed for change in intensity following the homeopathic intervention. Statistically significant improvements in the intensity of main symptoms were observed between initial and subsequent follow-ups. The main symptom scores showed a mean change in intensity (delta MYCaW) of -0.79 points (95% confidence interval (CI), -1.29 to -0.29; p = 0.003) at first follow-up, a mean change of -1.67 points (95% CI, -2.34 to -0.99; p = 0.001) at second follow-up compared with the initial visit, and a mean change of -1.93 points (95% CI, -3.0 to -0.86; p = 0.008) at third follow-up compared with the initial visit. For clients with four or more follow-ups, the mean delta MYCaW was -1.57 points (95% CI, -2.86 to -0.28; p = 0.039). CONCLUSION: Statistically significant improvements as well as some clinically meaningful changes in symptom intensity were found across a diverse group of individuals with a variety of long-term chronic conditions. The improvement was evident across different body systems and different levels of chronicity. There are limitations to the generalizability of the study due to the research design. Further research and investigation are warranted given the promising results of this work.

A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of Individualized Homeopathic Medicines in Pre-diabetes.

BACKGROUND: Pre-diabetes (PD) contributes importantly to the disease burden worldwide and is a precursor to stroke, cardiovascular diseases, as well as type-2 diabetes mellitus. OBJECTIVE: In this project, the efficacy of individualized homeopathic medicines (IHMs) was explored against placebos in the treatment of PD. METHODS: A 6-month, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted at the outpatient departments of a homeopathic medical college and hospital in India. Sixty participants with PD were randomized to receive either IHMs (n = 30) or identical-looking placebos (n = 30). Concomitant care measures were advised to both groups of participants in terms of dietary advice, yoga, meditation and exercise. The primary outcome measures were fasting blood sugar (FBS) and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT); the secondary outcome was the Diabetes Symptom Checklist-Revised (DSC-R) score. All the outcomes were measured at baseline and after 3 and 6 months of treatment. Inter-group differences and effect sizes (Cohen's d) were calculated using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance models after adjusting baseline differences using analysis of co-variance on the intention-to-treat data. RESULTS: Between-group differences for FBS were statistically significant, favoring IHMs against placebos (F 1,58 = 7.798, p = 0.007), but not for OGTT (F 1,58 = 1.691, p = 0.199). The secondary outcome, DSC-R total score, favoring IHMs significantly compared with placebos (F 1,58 = 15.752, p < 0.001). Calcarea Carbonicum, Thuja occidentalis and Sulphur were the most frequently prescribed medicines. No harm or serious adverse events were recorded from either of the participant groups. CONCLUSION: IHMs produced significantly better results than placebos in FBS and in DSC-R scores but not in OGTT. Independent replications with larger sample sizes are warranted to substantiate the findings. TRIAL REGISTRATION: CTRI/2019/10/021711.

Pharmacy Students' Knowledge and Attitudes about Homeopathy: A Descriptive Survey Conducted in Turkey.

BACKGROUND: Homeopathy belongs to "Traditional and Complementary Medicine" (TCM) and is defined in the TCM regulation in Turkey as a holistic practice method that aims to improve health status with personalized medicines. The international and national literature includes a limited number of studies that examine individuals' knowledge, attitudes and behaviors toward homeopathy. Although in Turkey the Regulation on Pharmacists and Pharmacies states that the sale of homeopathic medicines is allowed only in pharmacies, no study was found that evaluated awareness about homeopathy among pharmacy students. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to assess pharmacy students' knowledge and attitudes toward homeopathy and to identify the factors that influence them. METHODS: This descriptive study was conducted between December 1, 2021 and February 1, 2022 among the students of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Karadeniz Technical University (KTU), through a face-to-face survey. In total, 418 questionnaires suitable for data quality were included in the study. The SPSS 23.0 statistical program was used to analyze the data and the statistical significance level was taken as p < 0.05. RESULTS: It was determined that 73% of the participants had heard about TCM practices and 55% had heard of homeopathy. Students in the fifth grade (p = 0.0001) and those working in an income-generating job (p = 0.026) were found to be those most aware of homeopathy. The students of the Faculty of Pharmacy correctly knew the basic working principles of homeopathy (p = 0.002). The source from which students obtained the most information about homeopathy was undergraduate courses. 80.4% of the participants thought that homeopathy should be applied by pharmacists. 47.0% of the students wanted to learn more about homeopathy or to carry out studies in the field of homeopathy in their careers. CONCLUSION: The results of this research revealed a high awareness amongst KTU pharmacy students about the practice of homeopathy.

Acute and Sub-acute Oral Toxicity Assessment of Ferrum phosphoricum in Rats.

BACKGROUND: Ferrum phosphoricum (FP) has been used by traditional medicine practitioners for various ailments since ancient times. However, scientific evidence on the safety of FP is still unavailable. Thus, the current study aimed to investigate the acute and sub-acute oral toxicity of homeopathic FP in experimental rats. METHODS: In an acute toxicity investigation, a single dose of 2,000 µL/kg of FP 6c, 30c and 200c was administered to female Wistar rats, which were monitored for up to 14 days according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guideline 423. For a sub-acute toxicity study, FP 6c, 30c and 200c (200 µL/kg) were administered to male and female rats for 28 days as per the OECD guideline 407. All the animals were observed for mortality, clinical signs and body weight during the study. At the end of the experiment, hematological, biochemical and histopathological assessments were performed. RESULTS: During the acute toxicity study, no mortality was observed in rats administered with FP, and thus the median lethal dose (LD50) was identified as >2,000 µL/kg. In the sub-acute study, no mortality or adverse clinical signs were noticed with FP treatment. Moreover, weekly body weight gain was normal. Hematological and biochemical investigations revealed no abnormalities. Furthermore, histological analysis of FP-treated rats' vital organs revealed no pathological changes. CONCLUSION: Overall, our findings imply that FP 6c, 30c and 200c potencies are safe and do not cause toxicity when given orally to Wistar albino rats for an extended period at a dose of 200 µL/kg.

Individualized Homeopathic and Organopathic Supportive Management of Sickle Cell Disorder: A Case Series of Six Patients from a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group in India.

BACKGROUND: Sickle cell disorder (SCD) is a hereditary blood disease characterized by an abnormality in the oxygen-carrying protein hemoglobin present in red blood cells. Genetic abnormality causes these cells to become sickle-shaped, with shorter lifespan. Vaso-occlusive crisis is a major symptom of SCD: it is a sudden and severe episode of pain, and occurs when sickle-shaped cells block blood flow. This blockage can lead to tissue damage, inflammation and pain. OBJECTIVES: This case series aims to observe the clinical outcomes from prescribing individualized homeopathic medicines along with organopathic supportive medicine in the management of SCD through the analysis of case studies of six patients from a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) in India that manifests genetic predisposition for the disease. METHOD: The patients were administered individualized homeopathic and organopathic supportive medicines, after a comprehensive door-to-door survey and subsequent screening, conducted between October 2020 and May 2023 in the Dindori and Mandla districts of the central Indian state, Madhya Pradesh. Clinical symptoms, laboratory parameters including hemoglobin, along with scores from a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain and from the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQoL) Questionnaire, were determined. RESULTS: Individualized homeopathic and organopathic supportive management led to improvements in clinical symptoms for all six patients. Laboratory test results showed a statistically significant increase in hemoglobin level associated with treatment. The VAS for pain indicated decreased pain frequency and severity. WHOQoL scores also improved, indicating enhanced well-being for each patient. No adverse effects were reported during treatment. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that individualized homeopathic medicine and organopathic supportive management have a beneficial role in managing SCD and may be valuable in the context of PVTGs in India. To establish a more comprehensive understanding of its efficacy, further studies should involve larger cohorts to allow for a thorough evaluation, including comparative analyses with standard therapies.

Association between Acute and Chronic Inflammatory States: A Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND: Fever is the hallmark of efficient acute inflammatory response, which may be disrupted in chronic inflammatory conditions. The "continuum theory" proposes that the return of acute inflammatory states with high fever predicts improvement in chronic diseases during treatment. Our objective was to investigate the observation made, during classical homeopathic treatment, that such an association exists between chronic inflammation and efficient acute inflammation. METHODS: In a case-control study, the reports of patients diagnosed with chronic inflammatory conditions with at least 6 months of follow-up under homeopathic treatment were retrospectively sampled from homeopathic medical practices from Greece, India, Romania and Russia. Twenty patients who improved under homeopathic treatment and 20 age-matched controls of those who did not improve were selected. The occurrence of common acute infectious diseases with fever during the follow-up period was investigated. RESULTS: The average age of the cases and controls was 28.4 (SD: 16.64) and 27.9 (SD: 17.19) years respectively. 18/20 cases and 4/20 controls developed common infectious diseases with fever. Cramer's V co-efficient value was found to be 0.551 (p < 0.01), indicating that improvement was more in patients with fever than without. Odds ratio of improving with respect to development of acute infectious diseases was 36.0 (95% CI: 5.8 to 223.5). The binary logistic regression model indicated significant contribution of occurrence of acute infections with fever as a predictor for improvement in chronic inflammatory disease. CONCLUSIONS: Classical homeopathic clinical observations indicate an association between chronic inflammatory status in the body and the ability to mount efficient acute inflammation. In this case-control study, the occurrence of common infections with fever during treatment heralded improvement in chronic inflammatory disease. Further powered studies are necessary to substantiate this finding.

Association between Usage of Prophylactic AYUSH Medicines and Disease Severity in COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Prior vaccination is often studied for its impact on individuals' post-infection prognosis. Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) medicines, advised by the Government of India as prophylaxis during the first wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, were consumed by the masses in 2020. A study was therefore undertaken to observe any association between the prior usage of AYUSH prophylactic medicines and post-infection severity as reported by recovered COVID-19 individuals. METHODS: This was a retrospective, multi-centre, cohort study conducted in 21 cities of India from 5th August to 30th November 2020. Data from recovered COVID-19 patients, of either sex or any age, captured information about AYUSH prophylactic medicines intake prior to infection, disease severity, symptomatology, duration of complaints, etc. The study participants were grouped into AYUSH intake and non-intake. Primary composite outcome was the disease clinical course. Secondary clinical outcomes were the rate of and time to clinical recovery. RESULTS: Data of 5,023 persons were analysed. Ayurveda or homeopathic prophylactic medicines were consumed by more than half of the study participants: that is, 56.85% (n = 1,556) and 56.81% (n = 1,555) respectively. The overall adjusted protective effect (PE) of AYUSH prophylactic intake against moderate/severe forms of COVID-19 disease was 56.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 48.7 to 63.50; p < 0.001). Adjusted PE for homeopathy and Siddha was 52.9% (95% CI, 42.30 to 61.50; p < 0.001) and 59.8% (95% CI, 37.80 to 74.10; p < 0.001), respectively. A statistically significant association was found between AYUSH prophylactic medicine intake and clinical recovery more frequently by the 3rd day of illness (χ2 = 9.01; p = 0.002). Time to resolution of symptoms in the AYUSH intake group was on average 0.3 days earlier than in the non-intake group (p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: AYUSH prophylactics were associated with statistically significant levels of protection against COVID-19 disease severity. Amongst these, previous intake of homeopathy or Siddha medicines was associated with some protection against moderate/severe illness and with a somewhat quicker clinical recovery. Prospective studies with experimental research design are needed to validate the findings of this study. STUDY REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials Registry-India (CTRI/2020/08/027000).

Individualized Homeopathic Medicines in the Management of Symptomatic Adenotonsillar Hypertrophy in Children: A Prospective Observational Study.

BACKGROUND: Globally, adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH) is one of the most prevalent upper respiratory tract disorders of children, with associated troublesome symptoms such as sleep apnea and cognitive disturbances. In this study, we evaluated the potential role of individualized homeopathic medicines in the management of symptomatic ATH in children. METHODS: A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted at five institutes under the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, India. Primary and secondary outcomes (symptom score for adenoids, other symptoms of ATH, Mallampati score, tonsillar size, Sleep-Related Breathing Disorder of the Paediatric Sleep Questionnaire [SRBD-PSQ]) were assessed through standardized questionnaires at baseline and at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Radiological investigations for assessing the adenoid/nasopharyngeal (A/N) ratio were carried out at baseline, 6 and 12 months. All analyses were carried out using an intention-to-treat approach. RESULTS: A total of 340 children were screened and 202 children suffering from ATH were enrolled and followed up monthly for 12 months. Each patient received individualized homeopathic treatment based on the totality of symptoms. Statistically significant reductions in adenoid symptom score, Mallampati score (including tonsillar size), SRBD-PSQ sleep quality assessment and A/N ratio were found over time up to 12 months (p < 0.001). Homeopathic medicines frequently indicated were Calcarea carbonicum, Phosphorus, Silicea, Sulphur, Calcarea phosphoricum, Pulsatilla, Lycopodium and Tuberculinum. No serious adverse events were recorded during the study period. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that homeopathic medicines may play a beneficial role in the management of symptomatic ATH in children. Well-designed comparative trials are warranted.

Understanding Why Homeopathic Medicines are Used for Menopause: Searching for Insights into Neuroendocrine Features.

BACKGROUND: Menopause is a physiological event that marks the end of a woman's reproductive stage in life. Vasomotor symptoms and changes in mood are among its most important effects. Homeopathy has been used for many years in treating menopausal complaints, though clinical and pre-clinical research in this field is limited. Homeopathy often bases its prescription on neuropsychiatric symptoms, but it is unknown if homeopathic medicines (HMs) exert a neuroendocrine effect that causes an improvement in vasomotor symptoms and mood during menopause. OBJECTIVES: The study's objectives were to address the pathophysiological changes of menopause that could help in the understanding of the possible effect of HMs at a neuroendocrine level, to review the current evidence for two of the most frequently prescribed HMs for menopause (Lachesis mutus and Sepia officinalis), and to discuss the future directions of research in this field. METHODS: An extensive literature search for the pathophysiologic events of menopause and depression, as well as for the current evidence for HMs in menopause and depression, was performed. RESULTS: Neuroendocrine changes are involved in the pathophysiology of vasomotor symptoms and changes in mood during menopause. Gonadal hormones modulate neurotransmitter systems. Both play a role in mood disorders and temperature regulation. It has been demonstrated that Gelsemium sempervirens, Ignatia amara and Chamomilla matricaria exert anxiolytic effects in rodent models. Lachesis mutus and Sepia officinalis are frequently prescribed for important neuropsychiatric and vasomotor symptoms. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in mood, is among the constituents of the ink of the common cuttlefish, Sepia officinalis. CONCLUSION: Based on all the pathophysiologic events of menopause and the improvement in menopausal complaints that certain HMs show in daily practice, these medicines might have a direct or indirect neuroendocrine effect in the body, possibly triggered via an as-yet unidentified biological mechanism. Many unanswered questions in this field require further pre-clinical and clinical research.

Aspirin 15cH has Different Effects on Morphology and Function of Lipopolysaccharide-Challenged RAW 264.7 Macrophages In Vitro Compared to a Pharmacological Dose of Aspirin.

INTRODUCTION: Aspirin is one of the most commonly used drugs worldwide. It is known to present antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic actions, making it extremely useful in a wide range of clinical contexts. Interestingly, homeopathically prepared Aspirin 15cH has been found to have a pro-thrombotic effect in rats, raising the hypothesis that Aspirin 15cH could also modulate the activity of inflammatory cells in different pathological processes. OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to assess what effect Aspirin 15cH has on RAW 264.7 macrophages in vitro. METHODS: The effects of Aspirin 15cH on biochemical and morphological activities of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages were evaluated. These effects were compared with unchallenged macrophages (negative control), untreated LPS-stimulated macrophages, macrophages treated with succussed water (vehicle control), or aspirin 200 µg/mL (pharmacological inhibitor of LPS activity). Cell morphology (adhered cell area and cytoskeleton arrangements), cell viability, toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) expression, and the production of nitric oxide, cytokines and intracellular reactive oxygen species were assessed. RESULTS: Aspirin 15cH reduced the number of cells expressing TLR-4 on the surface (p = 0.03) and induced a "columnar" morphology of macrophage pseudopods, indicating changes in cytoskeleton arrangement. When cells were treated with both Aspirin 15cH and LPS, cell morphology became heterogeneous, suggesting that sub-populations of cells had differing sensitivities to LPS or Aspirin 15cH. Exposure of the cells to LPS alone, succussed water or aspirin 200 µg/mL produced effects consistent with the literature. CONCLUSION: Aspirin 15cH, aspirin 200 µg/mL, LPS and succussed water appear to act as independent stimuli able to induce different patterns of macrophage response. Aspirin 15cH induced changes suggestive of M2 polarization of the macrophages (i.e., toward a wound healing or tissue repair, rather than inflammatory, phenotype). These preliminary findings need to be confirmed in further specific studies.

Homeopathic Medicines in Third (Omicron) Wave of COVID-19: Prognostic Factor Research.

BACKGROUND: With the emergence of new variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, such as the Omicron variant, during the third wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there was a need to identify useful homeopathic medicines. This study aimed to identify such medicines and their indications using prognostic factor research (PFR). METHODS: This was an open-label, multi-centred observational study conducted in January 2022, on confirmed COVID-19 cases. The data were collected from integrated COVID Care Centres in Delhi, India, where homeopathic medicines were prescribed along with conventional treatment. Only those cases that met a set of selection criteria were considered for analysis. The likelihood ratio (LR) was calculated for the frequently occurring symptoms of the frequently prescribed medicines. An LR of 1.3 or greater was considered meaningful. RESULTS: Out of the 362 COVID-19 cases, 263 cases were selected for analysis after applying selection criteria. Common symptoms included fatigue, cough, sore throat, myalgia and headache. Twenty-one medicines were prescribed, of which nine medicines - Gelsemium sempervirens, Bryonia alba, Hepar sulphuris, Rhus toxicodendron, Pulsatilla nigricans, Arsenicum album, Belladonna, Nux vomica and Phosphorus - were frequently used. By calculating LRs, the study identified meaningful indications for these medicines. CONCLUSION: Homeopathic medicines have shown promising results in the third wave of COVID-19 as an adjunct therapy. The medicines that were used in the first and second waves were found useful in the third wave also, and their indications were analogous to those found in the earlier waves. Certain new indications of some medicines were elicited in this wave, which warrant further research. However, it is important not to restrict to these medicines only and to continue data collection on COVID-19 in future waves for the improvement of the COVID-19 mini-repertory.