Efficacy of homoeopathic treatment for diabetic distal symmetric polyneuropathy: A multicentric randomised double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: In course of diabetes, some 20-90% of individuals eventually develop diabetic neuropathy. Looking at the disease burden research studies in Homoeopathy were conducted and have shown positive results. These studies were not robust enough to prove the efficacy of individualized homoeopathy. OBJECTIVE: To assess efficacy of individualized homoeopathic medicines in management of DDSP. METHODS: A multi-centric double-blind, placebo controlled, randomised clinical trial was conducted by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy at six centres with a sample size of 84. Based on earlier observational studies and repertorial anamnesis of DDSP symptoms 15 homoeopathic medicines were shortlisted and validated scales were used for evaluating the outcomes post-intervention. Primary outcome measure was change in Neuropathy Total Symptom Score-6 (NTSS-6) from baseline to 12 months. Secondary outcomes included changes in peripheral nerve conduction study (NCS), World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) and Diabetic Neuropathy Examination (DNE) Score at 12 months. RESULTS: Data of 68 enrolled cases was considered for data analysis. Statistically significant difference (p<0.014) was found in NTSS-6 post intervention in the Verum group. Positive trend was noted for Verum group as per the graph plotted for DNE score and assessment done for NCS. No significant difference was found between the groups for WHOQOL-Bref. Out of 15 pre-identified homoeopathic medicines 11 medicines were prescribed in potencies in ascending order from 6C to 1M. CONCLUSION: Further studies must be taken up with larger sample size and defined parameters for NCS to assess the effectiveness of homoeopathy.

COVID -19: Introductory Handbook in Homoeopathy: Book Review / Sub-title: "The Health of Humanity is at Stake"

The "COVID -19: Introductory Handbook in Homoeopathy" is a handbook written in the wake of the situation evolved from the new life-threatening viral disease by the name of COVID-19. This book has been broughtout at a time when the most scientific system of medicine is looking for a solution for this grave condition.