Individualized homeopathic medicines in preventing the progression from pre-diabetes to diabetes: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm trial.

CONTEXT: Pre-diabetes is a significant public health problem worldwide. India has a very high rate of progression from pre-diabetes to diabetes, 75-78 per thousand persons per year. OBJECTIVE: To study the efficacy of individualized homeopathic medicinal products (HMPs) against placebos in preventing the progression from pre-diabetes to diabetes. DESIGN: Six-month, double-blind, randomized (1:1), two parallel arms, placebo-controlled trial. SETTING: Outpatient departments of D. N. De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India. PATIENTS: Sixty participants with pre-diabetes. INTERVENTIONS: Verum: HMPs plus yoga therapy (YT; n = 30); control: identical-looking placebos plus YT (n = 30). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of participants progressing from pre-diabetes to diabetes, measured after three and six months. Secondary outcomes comprised of fasting blood glucose (FBS), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), glycated hemoglobin percentage (HbA1c%), lipid profile, liver enzymes (alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase), urea and creatinine, and Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile version 2 (MYMOP-2); all measured after 3 and 6 months. RESULTS: The proportion of participants converted from pre-diabetics to diabetics (n/N; n = diabetics, N = prediabetics) was significantly less in the verum group than control: HbA1C% (month 3: verum - 2/30 versus control - 11/30, p = 0.003; month 6: 3/30 vs. 2/30, p = 0.008), OGTT (month 3: 0/30 vs. 8/30, p = 0.015; month 6: 0/30 vs. 1/30, p = 0.008), but not according to FBS (month 3: 1/30 vs. 1/30, p = 0.779; month 6: 1/30 vs. 3/30, p = 0.469). Several secondary outcomes also revealed significant improvements in the verum group than in placebo: HbA1C% (p < 0.001), OGTT (p = 0.001), serum ALT (p = 0.031), creatinine (p = 0.012), and MYMOP-2 profile scores (p < 0.001). Sulphur, Bryonia alba, and Thuja occidentalis were the most frequently indicated medicines. Thus, HMPs outperformed placebos by successfully preventing the progression of pre-diabetes to diabetes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials Registry - India CTRI/2022/04/042,026; UTN: U1111-1277-0021.

Brain wave oscillations as an objective neurophysiological biomarker of homeopathic subjective well-being [Pré-print]

Homeopathy uses the "similitude principle" to arouse a therapeutic reaction in the body against its own disorders. For this to occur optimally, the medicinal pathogenetic effects must present similarity with the totality of the individual's symptoms. To assess if this similarity has been successfully achieved, Hahnemann states that "improvement in the disposition and mind"­i.e., subjective well-being­is the most important parameter to consider. Aim Our aim was to perform a narrative review of the literature, exploring what is known about subjective well-being as a marker of therapeutic action, and to formulate ways in which subjective well-being might be quantifiable and applied in future homeopathy research. The concept of subjective well-being has been extensively studied in the complementary and conventional medical literature. Improved well-being has been observed in clinical trials, including those in the fields of positive psychology and meditation. Positive subjective outcomes of this nature are supported by objective evidence through associated changes in brain oscillatory activity using electroencephalography and/or "brain mapping" by functional magnetic resonance imaging. Neurophysiological responses in the brain have been identified in subjects after they ingested a homeopathic medicine. The concept of subjective well-being is supported by a body of literature and is a measurable entity. When viewed from the perspective of electrophysiological changes, brain activity is an objective neurophysiological biomarker with a potential to quantify individual well-being in the context of homeopathy research.

Prescriptions of homeopathic remedies at the expense of the German statutory health insurance from 1985 to 2021: scientific, legal and pharmacoeconomic analysis.

The prescription of homeopathic remedies at the expense of the statutory health insurance (SHI) system in Germany has been criticized for years due to a lack of evidence. Now, on the planned abolition of the reimbursement of homeopathic medicines in Germany, the debate on this topic has been reignited. The aim of this paper is to show the costs and their development over time incurred by homeopathic remedies in the healthcare system from 1985 to 2021. For this purpose, 15 selected homeopathic medicines were chosen from the drug prescription report (Arzneiverordnungsreport) and analyzed with regard to their development of DDD (Defined Daily Dose) using data from the Wissenschaftliches Institut der Ortskrankenkassen (WidO, Scientific Institute of the General Local Health Insurance Funds) and compared with their respective rational pharmacological alternatives. The price comparison was based on the DDD costs and the pharmacy retail price of the smallest packaging in each case. The clinical study situation for the preparations was also analyzed. For this purpose, the clinical studies provided by the manufacturer and those on PubMed were divided into evidence levels and analyzed. In addition, the presentation of homeopathic remedies on company websites, in online pharmacies, in specialist information and package leaflets was analyzed with regard to side effects, interactions, indication, and information on the alleged effect/proof of efficacy. In many media, information on homeopathic medicines remained incomplete, and non-compliance with the Therapeutic Product Advertising Act (Heilmittelwerbegesetz) was noted. Naming of the products if often very suggestive, too. Manufacturers' claims of efficacy go far beyond what can be considered proven in terms of evidence-based medicine and the quality of most clinical studies is poor. Homeopathic remedies are on average significantly more expensive than their rational pharmacological alternatives. Furthermore, DDD costs have continued to rise over the years analyzed. In aggregate, from a pharmacoeconomic, legal, and scientific perspective, abolition of reimbursement of homeopathic medicines in Germany at the expense of the SHI system is well justified.

Perspectiva holística en salud: la contribución de la Homeopatía / Holistic Perspective in Health: The Contribution of Homeopathy

En el panorama de la salud, el cuerpo humano, en su estado natural, se revela como una intrincada unidad que opera en armonía para mantener el equilibrio dinámico. Sin embargo, esta homeostasis puede verse afectada, dando lugar a la dualidad y a trastornos que comprometen la estabilidad vital. Este artículo propone una reflexión sobre la perspectiva homeopática, destacando su enfoque único en comparación con la medicina convencional. Diferenciándose al tratar al individuo como un todo integrado, la Homeopatía reconoce la transitoriedad de la dualidad representada por las enfermedades y enfatiza la importancia de la armonía entre el cuerpo y la mente en la búsqueda de la homeostasis. Inspirada en las ideas de Hahnemann, la Homeopatía se destaca por su visión holística, rechazando el dualismo estricto y proponiendo intervenciones que van más allá de la supresión de los síntomas. Anclada en la ley de los similares, busca sustancias que reproduzcan los síntomas del paciente en un estado saludable, buscando una cura profunda y la restauración de la unidad dinámica del organismo. A pesar de los desafíos, como la resistencia y la falta de métodos de investigación universalmente aceptados, la Homeopatía persiste a nivel mundial, sugiriendo un valor único. Este artículo promueve una reflexión sobre el enfoque homeopático, enfatizando su contribución a la comprensión de la salud y su papel en el panorama terapéutico.

n the landscape of health, the human body, in its natural state, reveals itself as an intricate unity, operating harmoniously to maintain dynamic balance. However, this homeostasis can be disrupted, leading to duality and disturbances that compromise vital stability. This article reflects on the homeopathic perspective, highlighting its unique approach compared to conventional medicine. Distinguishing itself by treating the individual as an integrated whole, homeopathy recognizes the transience of duality represented by diseases and emphasizes the importance of harmony between body and mind in the pursuit of homeostasis.Inspired by Hahnemann's ideas, homeopathy stands out for its holistic view, rejecting strict dualism and proposing interventions that go beyond symptom suppression. Anchored in the Law of Similars, it seeks substances that would reproduce the patient's symptoms in a healthy state, aiming for a profound cure and the restoration of the dynamic unity of the organism. Despite challenges, such as resistance and a lack of universally accepted research methods, homeopathy persists globally, suggesting unique value. This article encourages reflection on the homeopathic approach, emphasizing

Efficacy of Individualized Homeopathic Medicines in the Treatment of Sciatica Pain: Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Objectives: Sciatica is a debilitating condition that causes pain in its distribution or in the lumbosacral nerve root that is connected to it. Although there are claims that homeopathy can reduce sciatica pain, systematic scientific proof is currently lacking. The objective of the trial was to determine whether individualized homeopathic medicines (IHMs) were as effective as identical-looking placebos in treating sciatica pain. Design: This is a double-blind, randomized (1:1), two parallel arms, placebo-controlled trial. Setting: The study was conducted at Mahesh Bhattacharyya Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Howrah, West Bengal, India. Subjects: Sixty participants with sciatica pain were included in this study. Interventions: Verum (n = 30; IHMs plus concomitant care) versus control (n = 30; placebos plus concomitant care). Outcome measures: Primary-Sciatica Bothersome Index (SBI) and Sciatica Frequency Index (SFI) scores and secondary-Roland Morris Pain and Disability Questionnaire (RMPDQ), Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ), and Oswestry Low Back Pain Questionnaire (OLBPQ) scores: all of them were measured at baseline, and every month, up to 3 months. Results: Intention-to-treat sample (n = 60) was analyzed. Group differences were examined by two-way (split-half) repeated measure analysis of variance, primarily accounting for between groups and time interactions, and additionally, by unpaired t tests comparing the estimates obtained individually every month. The level of significance was set at p < 0.025 and <0.05 two tailed for the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Group differences could not achieve significance in SBI (p = 0.044), SFI (p = 0.080), and RMPDQ scores (p = 0.134), but were significant for SF-MPQ (p = 0.007) and OLBPQ (p = 0.036). Gnaphalium polycephalum (n = 6; 10%) was the most frequently prescribed medicine. No harm, serious adverse events, or intercurrent illnesses were recorded in either of the groups. Conclusions: The primary outcome failed to demonstrate evidently that homeopathy was effective beyond placebo, and the trial remained inconclusive. Independent replications are warranted to confirm the findings. Clinical Trial Registration Number: CTRI/2020/10/028617.

Efficacy of Individualized Homeopathic Medicines in the Treatment of Hemorrhoids: Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Objectives: To investigate the efficacy and safety of individualized homeopathic medicines (IHMs) in treating hemorrhoids compared with placebo. Design: This is a double-blind, randomized (1:1), two parallel arms, placebo-controlled trial. Setting: The trial was conducted at the surgery outpatient department of the State National Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. Subjects: Patients were 140 women and men, aged between 18 and 65 years, with a diagnosis of primary hemorrhoids grades I-III for at least 3 months. Excluded were the patients with grade IV hemorrhoids, anal fissure, and fistula, hypertrophic anal papillae, inflammatory bowel disease, coagulation disorders, rectal malignancies, obstructed portal circulation, patients requiring immediate surgical intervention, and vulnerable samples. Interventions: Patients were randomized to Group 1 (n = 70; IHMs plus concomitant care; verum) and Group 2 (n = 70; placebos plus concomitant care; control). Outcome measures: Primary-the anorectal symptom severity and quality-of-life (ARSSQoL) questionnaire, and secondary-the EuroQol 5-dimensions 5-levels (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaire and EQ visual analogue scale (VAS); all of them were measured at baseline, and every month, up to 3 months. Results: Out of the 140 randomized patients, 122 were protocol compliant. Intention-to-treat sample (n = 140) was analyzed. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05 two tailed. Statistically significant between-group differences were elicited in the ARSSQoL total (Mann-Whitney U [MWU]: 1227.0, p < 0.001) and EQ-5D-5L VAS (MWU: 1228.0, p = 0.001) favoring homeopathy against placebos. Sulfur was the most frequently prescribed medicine. No harm or serious adverse events were reported from either of the groups. Conclusions: IHMs demonstrated superior results over placebo in the short-term treatment of hemorrhoids of grades I-III. The findings are promising, but need to be substantiated by further phase 3 trials. Clinical Trial Registration Number: CTRI/2020/03/024342.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is frequently used by parents for the treatment of functional constipation in children.

OBJECTIVES: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has gained increasing attention as a supportive treatment for chronic diseases such as epilepsy, migraine, autism, and cancer in children. This study aimed to determine the frequency, motivation, and outcomes of CAM in children with functional constipation. METHODS: From January 2018 till September 2019, parents of patients (0-18 years) who were treated for functional constipation (ROME IV-criteria) at our colorectal center were asked to complete a questionnaire on the utilization of CAM. Demographic data and clinical assessments were documented and analyzed for patients with and without CAM treatment. RESULTS: A total of 115 patients were included (mean age: 5.1 years; 49% males), of whom 29 (25%) used CAM as an alternative (4/29,14%) or in addition to conventional therapy (CT), including osteopathy (48%), homeopathy (45%), and natural/herbal remedies (17%). The main reason parents reported for the use of CAM was the urge to leave no treatment option unattempted (76%). Multivariate analysis also identified persistent constipation under CT (72%), adverse effects of CT (24%), and parental use of CAM themselves (83%) as independent variables associated with CAM use. Parents reported positive changes in stool frequency (38%) and fecal incontinence (21%) with CAM. The vast majority (93%) plan to use CAM in the future, and even non-CAM users showed high interest (60%). CONCLUSION: One in four children with functional constipation receives CAM. Significant improvement in stool frequency and continence is missing in the majority. However, parental interest in CAM remains high. Physicians should be aware of CAM when counseling families for functional constipation in children.

Prespecified Homeopathic Medicines in the Prevention of Confirmed and Suspected Cases of COVID-19: A Community-Based, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Prophylaxis Trial.

INTRODUCTION: Homeopathic medicines have been used for decades in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. However, the preventive efficacy of specific homeopathic medicines in COVID-19 is not well characterized. This study aimed to evaluate the comparative efficacy of prespecified homeopathic medicines in preventing COVID-19. METHODS: A community-based, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 4,034 participants residing in Ward No. 27 of the Howrah Municipal Corporation in India. Participants were randomized to receive one of three prespecified homeopathic medicines [Influenzinum 30C, Arsenicum album 30C, Anas barbariae hepatis et cordis extractum 200K (Oscillococcinum®)], or placebo. The outcomes were the incidence of laboratory-confirmed and suspected cases of COVID-19 during a follow-up period of 1 month. RESULTS: During the follow-up period, a total of 13 new laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases were reported in the study population. Among these, 5 cases in Influenzinum group, 2 cases in Arsenicum album group, 1 case in Oscillococcinum® group, and 5 cases in Placebo group were reported. On the other hand, number of suspected COVID-19 cases was significantly less in all the three homeopathic medicine groups compared to placebo. The least number of suspected cases reported in the Oscillococcinum® group (aOR: 0.058; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.029, 0.114), followed by the Arsenicum album (aOR: 0.337; 95% CI: 0.238, 0.475) and Influenzinum (aOR: 0.539; 95% CI: 0.401, 0.726) groups. CONCLUSION: Prespecified homeopathic medicines, particularly Oscillococcinum® and Arsenicum album 30C, may have a role in preventing COVID-19, especially in reducing the incidence of suspected or COVID-19-like respiratory illnesses. However, the result failed to demonstrate a statistically significant difference in the occurrence of confirmed cases of COVID-19 between the study groups. Further research is needed to evaluate the efficacy of these medicines in different populations and settings.Homöopathische Arzneimittel werden seit Jahrzehnten zur Prävention und Behandlung von Infektionskrankheiten eingesetzt. Die Wirksamkeit spezifischer homöopathischer Arzneimittel zur Prophylaxe von COVID-19 ist jedoch nicht gut untersucht. Mit dieser Studie sollte die vergleichende Wirksamkeit spezifischer homöopathischer Arzneimittel bei der Prävention von COVID-19 untersucht werden.Es handelte sich um eine gemeindebasierte, doppelblinde, randomisierte, placebokontrollierte Studie mit 4.034 Teilnehmern, die im Bezirk Nr. 27 der Howrah Municipal Corporation in Indien lebten. Die Teilnehmer erhielten randomisiert eines von drei zuvor festgelegten homöopathischen Arzneimitteln [Influenzinum 30C, Arsenicum album 30C, Anas barbariae hepatis et cordis extractum 200K (Oscillococcinum®)] oder Placebo. Zielkriterien waren die Inzidenz von laborchemisch bestätigten und vermuteten COVID-19-Fällen während des Follow-up-Zeitraums von einem Monat.Während des Follow-up-Zeitraums wurden insgesamt 13 neue, laborchemisch bestätigte COVID-19-Fälle in der Studienpopulation berichtet, davon 5 Fälle in der Influenzinum-Gruppe, 2 Fälle in der Arsenicum album-Gruppe, 1 Fall in der Oscillococcinum®-Gruppe und 5 Fälle in der Placebo-Gruppe. Demgegenüber fiel Zahl der COVID-19-Verdachtsfälle in allen drei homöopathischen Arzneimittelgruppen signifikant geringer aus als in der Placebogruppe. Die wenigsten Verdachtsfälle wurden in der Oscillococcinum®-Gruppe berichtet (aOR: 0.058; 95%-KI: 0.029, 0.114), gefolgt von der Arsenicum album- (aOR: 0.337; 95%-KI: 0.238, 0.475) und der Influenzinum- (aOR: 0.539; 95%-KI: 0.401, 0.726) Gruppe.Spezifische homöopathische Arzneimittel, insbesondere Oscillococcinum® und Arsenicum album 30C, könnten bei der Prävention von COVID-19 eine Rolle spielen, vor allem bei der Senkung der Inzidenz von COVID-19-Verdachtsfällen oder COVID-19-ähnlichen Atemwegserkrankungen. Allerdings war kein statistisch signifikanter Unterschied im Auftreten von bestätigten COVID-19-Fällen zwischen den Studiengruppen nachweisbar. Weitere Untersuchungen sind erforderlich, um die Wirksamkeit dieser Arzneimittel in verschiedenen Populationen und Umgebungen zu bewerten.

A Randomized Three-Arm Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study of Homeopathic Treatment of Children and Youth with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Objectives: Approximately 30% of children diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the most prevalent mental health disorder in children worldwide, do not respond to conventional pharmaceutical treatments. Previous studies of homeopathic treatment for ADHD have been inconclusive. The objectives of this study were to determine if there (a) is an overall effect of homeopathic treatment (homeopathic medicines plus consultation) in the treatment of ADHD; (b) are any specific effects the homeopathic consultation alone in the treatment of ADHD; and (c) are any specific effects of homeopathic medicines in the treatment of ADHD. Design: The design was a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Setting/Location: Toronto, Canada. Subjects: Children aged 6-16 years diagnosed with ADHD. Interventions: Participants were randomized to one of three arms: Arm 1 (Remedy and Consultation); Arm 2 (Placebo and Consultation); or Arm 3 (Usual Care). Outcome Measures: Primary Outcome was the change of CGI-P T score between baseline and 28 weeks. Results: There was an improvement in ADHD symptoms as measured by the Conner 3 Global Index-Parent T-score in the two groups (Arms 1 and 2) that received consultations with a homeopathic practitioner when compared with the usual care control group (Arm 3). Parents of the children in the study who received homeopathic consultations (Arms 1 and 2) also reported greater coping efficacy compared with those receiving usual care (Arm 3). There was no difference in adverse events among the three study arms. Conclusions: In this study, homeopathic consultations provided over 8 months with the use of homeopathic remedy was associated with a decrease in ADHD symptoms in children aging 6-16 years when compared with usual treatment alone. Children treated with homeopathic consultations and placebo experienced a similar decrease in ADHD symptoms; however, this finding did not reach statistical significance when correcting for multiple comparisons. Homeopathic remedies in and of themselves were not associated with any change in ADHD symptoms. Clinical Trial Registration: This trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT02086864.

Homeopathy-A lively relic of the prescientific era.

Homeopathy was first postulated by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann in 1796 and 220 years later homeopathy is the most popular and widespread alternative medicine. Partly, it is also part of the national healthcare and insurance systems but homeopathy is not without controversy within the medical and healthcare community. Its implausible basic assumptions, some of which contradict natural laws, do not lead us to expect that its remedies have any specific effect. In fact, there is no study or systematic review to date that reliably certifies homeopathy to have an effect beyond the placebo effect and other context effects. In this respect it must be disconcerting how widely homeopathy is applied and represented in therapeutic practice. It indeed claims a role within scientific (evidence-based) medicine but cannot substantiate this claim. It displays clear characteristics of pseudoscience [1]. This implies a lot of problems, such as misleading people and tackling medical ethics up to scientific publication practices. Furthermore, it turns out that quite a few people do not know exactly what homeopathy is, which may lead them to make wrong decisions for their personal health. This article summarizes the information about homeopathy and its problematic implications and serves as a general introduction to this topic and its unacceptable role in today's medicine.The medical irrelevance of the sham method of homeopathy has been proven with more than sufficient probability [2]. As a major testimonial, the statement "Homeopathic products and practices" of the European (EASAC 2017) can be regarded. The primary aim of this brief report is therefore not to take another look at homeopathy from a medical scientific perspective, but rather focus attention on the implications of the still continuous and largely uncritically accepted existence of this method in medical practice, in the medical scientific sphere and in the judgement of the general public.

Overview and quality assessment of health economic evaluations for homeopathic therapy: an updated systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Likewise other medical interventions, economic evaluations of homeopathy contribute to the evidence base of therapeutic concepts and are needed for socioeconomic decision-making. A 2013 review was updated and extended to gain a current overview. METHODS: A systematic literature search of the terms 'cost' and 'homeopathy' from January 2012 to July 2022 was performed in electronic databases. Two independent reviewers checked records, extracted data, and assessed study quality using the Consensus on Health Economic Criteria (CHEC) list. RESULTS: Six studies were added to 15 from the previous review. Synthesizing both health outcomes and costs showed homeopathic treatment being at least equally effective for less or similar costs than control in 14 of 21 studies. Three found improved outcomes at higher costs, two of which showed cost-effectiveness for homeopathy by incremental analysis. One found similar results and three similar outcomes at higher costs for homeopathy. CHEC values ranged between two and 16, with studies before 2009 having lower values (Mean ± SD: 6.7 ± 3.4) than newer studies (9.4 ± 4.3). CONCLUSION: Although results of the CHEC assessment show a positive chronological development, the favorable cost-effectiveness of homeopathic treatments seen in a small number of high-quality studies is undercut by too many examples of methodologically poor research.

To help make decisions about homeopathy in healthcare, it is important, as with other medical treatments, to look at whether this treatment is effective in relation to its costs; in other words, to see if it is cost-effective. The aim of the current work was to update the picture of scientific studies available on this topic until 2012. To this purpose, two different researchers screened electronic literature databases for studies between January 2012 and July 2022 which assessed both the costs and the effects of a homeopathic treatment. They did this according to strict rules to make sure that no important study was missed. They reviewed the search results, gathered information from the studies, and assessed the quality of the studies using a set of criteria. They detected six additional new studies to the 15 already known from the previous work. Overall, they found that in 14 out of 21 studies, homeopathic treatment was at least equally effective for less or similar costs. For the remaining seven studies, costs were equal or higher for homeopathy. Of these seven, two were shown to be advantageous for homeopathy: indeed, specific economic analyses demonstrated that the benefit of the homeopathic treatment compensated for the higher costs. For the remaining five studies, the higher or equal costs of homeopathic treatment were not compensated by a better effect. The quality of the studies varied, with older studies generally being of lower quality compared to newer ones. The authors concluded that although the quality of research on homeopathy's cost-effectiveness has improved over time, and some high-quality studies show that it can be a cost-effective option, there are still many poorly conducted studies which make it difficult to offer a definitive statement. In other words, while there is some evidence that homeopathy can be effective in relation to its costs, there are still many studies that are not very reliable, which means that interested parties need to be cautious about drawing conclusions.

Investigations on the morpho-anatomy and histochemistry of Aconitum napellus L.

Aconitum napellus L. is a popular medicinal plant extensively used in homeopathy. This article provides detailed morphology and microscopy, including the anatomical and histochemical features of the herb, to aid authentication and quality control. In cross-section, the root in secondary growth shows the phloem surrounded by pericyclic fibers and a well-developed xylem. The stem is irregular in outline, displaying unicellular trichomes and many free collateral vascular bundles encircling the pith. The leaf is dorsiventral, hypostomatic with anomocytic and anisocytic stomata, and shows non-glandular trichomes. The floral parts are characterized by uniseriate epidermises, homogeneous mesophyll, anomocytic stomata on the abaxial surface, trichomes, and oval pollen grains. The tissue fragments in powdered herbs show these characteristics and have numerous starch grains with thimble-shaped, linear or star-shaped hilum. The detailed macroscopic and microscopic analysis provided in this study can help in the authentication and quality control of A. napellus raw materials. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Key anatomical, micromorphological, and microchemical features of Aconitum napellus are described. The results of the study can support the taxonomy of the genus Aconitum. Morphological standardization of the species reported here is helpful in the quality control of this herb.

A Fundamental Question for Complementary Medicine: Are There Other Forces in the Natural World Besides the Physical Forces?

BACKGROUND: The integration of conventional and complementary medicine reflects the pluralism in science. Still, a critical issue is the conception of the natural world. Many complementary therapy systems seem to contradict the reductionist-atomistic paradigm that all of natural reality is essentially based on the physical interactions of atoms and molecules. Thus, a fundamental question about the natural world is: Do other than the physical forces exist? SUMMARY: The assumption that no other than physical forces exist and work in the natural world is not tenable. For example, the formation and maintenance of the functional Gestalt of organisms cannot possibly be explained by molecular processes (e.g., from DNA to RNA and further to amino acids and proteins). The processes on each structural level - from molecules, organelles, cells, organs up to the whole organism - are regulated in regard to the formation of the next higher level. Specific Gestalt-forming forces exist and can be systematically investigated. Their existence implies an extended conception of matter. The Gestalt-forming forces and the extended concept of matter may be relevant for the scientific assessment of complementary therapies. KEY MESSAGES: (i) In the natural world, specific Gestalt-forming forces exist in addition to the physical forces, and can be systematically investigated. (ii) The existence of these forces implies an extended conception of matter. (iii) These forces and this extended concept of matter may be relevant for the scientific assessment of complementary therapies, e.g., homeopathy.In der Integration von konventioneller und komplementärer Medizin spiegelt sich der Methodenpluralismus der Wissenschaft. Die Ontologien vieler komplementärmedizinisches Systeme liegen allerdings außerhalb der Erklärbarkeit durch die Kräfte der Physik. Eine zentrale Frage ist deshalb: Gibt es Kräfte in der Natur, die eine materielle Wirkung haben, deren Ursprung aber nicht in Atomen oder Molekülen und in diesem Sinne nicht in der Materie liegt?Die Annahme, dass in der Natur keine anderen als die mit Atomen und Molekülen assoziierten physikalischen Kräfte existent und wirksam seien, ist wissenschaftlich nicht begründet. Beispielsweise ist die Bildung und Erhaltung der funktionsfähigen Gestalt von Organismen nicht durch molekulare Prozesse (z.B. von der DNA zur RNA und weiter zu Aminosäuren und Proteinen) erklärbar. Die Prozesse auf jeder strukturellen Ebene ­ von den Molekülen, Organellen, Zellen, Organen bis hinauf zum Gesamtorganismus ­ sind in Hinblick auf die Bildung der funktionsfähigen Gestalt der jeweils nächsthöheren Ebene gesteuert. Für diese Gestaltbildung gibt es spezifische Kräfte, die systematisch erforscht werden können. Ihre Existenz impliziert eine erweiterte Konzeption von Materie. Diese Gestalt-bildenden Kräfte und dieses erweiterte Konzept von Materie sind relevant für die wissenschaftliche Erfassung komplementärmedizinischer Systeme.(i) In der Natur sind außer den physikalischen Kräften noch weitere spezifische Kräfte wirksam, beispielsweise bei der Bildung und Erhaltung der funktionsfähigen Gestalt von Organismen. Diese Kräfte können systematisch erforscht werden. (ii) Die Existenz dieser Kräfte impliziert eine erweitere Konzeption von Materie. (iii) Diese Kräfte und das erweiterte Materiekonzept sind relevant für die wissenschaftliche Erfassung komplementärmedizinischer Systeme, beispielsweise der Homöopathie.

Individualized Homeopathic Medicines in the Treatment of Post-COVID-19 Fatigue in Adults: Single-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

INTRODUCTION: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is leading to unknown and unusual health conditions that are challenging to manage. Post-COVID-19 fatigue is one of those challenges, becoming increasingly common as the pandemic evolves, as it impairs the quality of life of an individual. This trial attempts to identify the preliminary evidence of the efficacy of individualized homeopathic medicines (IHMs) against placebos in the treatment of post-COVID-19 fatigue in adults. METHODS: A 3-month, single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm trial was conducted at the outpatient department of The Calcutta Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, India. Sixty participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either IHMs (n = 30) or identical-looking placebos (n = 30). The primary and secondary outcome measures were the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) and Outcome in Relation to Impact on Daily Living (ORIDL), respectively, measured every month, for up to 3 months. Comparative analysis was carried out on the intention-to-treat sample to detect group differences. RESULTS: Group differences in both the primary (FAS total: F1, 58 = 14.356, p < 0.001) and secondary outcomes (ORIDL: F1, 58 = 210.986, p < 0.001) after 3 months favored IHMs against placebos. Lycopodium clavatum (11.7%), sulfur (11.7%), Arsenicum album (10%), and Thuja occidentalis (10%) were the most frequently indicated medicines. No harm, unintended effects, homeopathic aggravations, or any serious adverse events were reported from either of the groups. CONCLUSION: IHMs produced significantly better effects than placebos in the treatment of post-COVID-19 fatigue in adults. Definitive robust trials may be undertaken to confirm the findings.Die Coronainfektion (COVID-19) zieht unbekannte und ungewöhnliche gesundheitliche Probleme nach sich, deren Management oft eine Herausforderung darstellt. Das gilt unter anderem für Ermüdung nach einer COVID-19-Erkrankung, die mit zunehmender Dauer der Pandemie immer häufiger auftritt und die Lebensqualität der Betroffenen beeinträchtigt. In dieser Studie wird versucht, vorläufige Belege für die Wirksamkeit individualisierter homöopathischer Mittel (IHM) im Vergleich zu Placebo zur Behandlung von Ermüdung nach COVID-19 bei Erwachsenen zu identifizieren.Eine einfach verblindete, randomisierte, placebokontrollierte Parallelgruppenstudie von 3 Monaten Dauer wurde im ambulanten Bereich des Calcutta Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital in Indien durchgeführt. 60 Teilnehmer erhielten nach Randomisierung im Verhältnis 1:1 entweder IHM (n = 30) oder identisch aussehendes Placebo (n = 30). Die primäre und die sekundäre Zielgröße waren die Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) und das Outcome in Relation to Impact on Daily Living (ORIDL) für bis zu 3 Monate, jeweils monatlich gemessen. Vergleichende Analysen wurden an der Intent-to-treat-Population durchgeführt, um Unterschiede zwischen den Gruppen zu erkennen.Gruppenunterschiede bei der primären (FAS gesamt: F1, 58 = 14,356; p < 0.001) sowie der sekundären Zielgröße (ORIDL: F1, 58 = 210,986; p < 0.001) nach 3 Monaten sprachen für die IHM gegenüber Placebo. Lycopodium clavatum (11.7%), sulfur (11.7%), Arsenicum album (10%) und Thuja occidentalis (10%) waren die am häufigsten indizierten Mittel. In beiden Gruppen wurden keine Schädigungen, unbeabsichtigten Wirkungen, homöopathischen Verschlechterungen oder jegliche schwerwiegenden unerwünschten Ereignisse beobachtet.Die IHM erzielten signifikant bessere Effekte als Placebo in der Behandlung von Post-COVID-Ermüdung bei Erwachsenen. Definitive, belastbare Studien können eingeleitet werden, um diese Befunde zu bestätigen.

Abordagem da homeopatia constitucional na gravidez / Constitutional homeopathy approach during pregnancy

Dentre as várias vertentes de pesquisa e prática homeopática pós-hahnemanniana, a Homeopatia Constitucional leva em consideração os aspectos morfofisiológicos: a biotipologia, o temperamento, as diáteses, não como noções absolutas, mas inseridas no seu devido lugar dentro da Doutrina e Técnicas de aplicação da Homeopatia. O conceito básico persiste sendo a semelhança precisa entre os sinais de um remédio e os mesmos sinais encontrados num paciente. A gravidez é um estado fisiológico que resulta na formação de um ser do qual podemos conhecer os progenitores. É uma oportunidade de abordar este ser diante das imperfeições de terreno que lhes podem ser transmitidas. A homeopatia é a única terapêutica prática, pois é inofensiva à criança e conduz um tratamento "eugênico", permitindo que a criança seja bem constituída.

Among the various aspects of post-Hahnemannian homeopathic research and practice, Constitutional Homeopathy considers morphophysiological aspects: biotypology, temperament and diatheses, not as absolute notions, but inserted in their due place within the Doctrine and Application Techniques of Homeopathy. The basic concept remains the precise similarity between the signs of a medicine and the same signs found in a patient. Pregnancy is a physiological state that results in the formation of a being whose parents we can know. It is an opportunity to approach this being in the face of the imperfections of the terrain that can be transmitted to them. Homeopathy is the only practical therapy, as it is harmless to the child and provides a "eugenic" treatment, allowing the child to be well constituted.

Migraine in an Adolescent with a Pineal Cyst Treated with Classical Individualized Homeopathy: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Migraine is one of the leading causes of morbidity and disability in the world. Its prevalence ranges from 5 to 40% in the pediatric population, with about 50% of these headaches continuing to adulthood. Incidental diagnosis of pineal cysts (PCs) is on the rise with the evolution of imaging techniques; the causal relationship of PC and individuals with headache however remains controversial, and complete resolution is uncommon. Conventional medicine stresses on the importance of tailored therapy in the management of pediatric migraine. CASE REPORT: An 11-year-old female, diagnosed with migraine with an aura and PC, was benefitted by individualized classical homeopathic therapy using the homeopathic preparation Phosphorous and Natrum muriaticum. The symptoms of migraine improved, and the incidentally diagnosed PC completely resolved during the course of treatment. CONCLUSION: Individualized classical homeopathy may have a role in effectively treating migraines and PCs in the pediatric population. There is a need for further scientific investigation with well-designed studies to prove the effectiveness of this therapeutic method, taking care to maintain the individualization principle of classical homeopathy.Migräne ist eine der führenden Ursachen für Krankheitslast und Behinderung weltweit. Ihre Prävalenz bei Kindern und Jugendlichen liegt im Bereich von 5­40%; hiervon sind etwa 50% bis ins Erwachsenenalter von den Kopfschmerzen betroffen. Zufallsdiagnosen von Pinealiszysten (PC) kommen im Zuge des Fortschritts bei den bildgebenden Verfahren immer häufiger vor, jedoch ist ein kausaler Zusammenhang der PC mit Kopfschmerzen umstritten, und ein vollständige Rückbildung kommt nicht häufig vor. Die Schulmedizin betont, wie wichtig eine maßgeschneiderte Therapie bei der Behandlung der Migräne im Kindesalter ist.Ein 11-jähriges Mädchen, bei dem eine Migräne mit Aura und eine Pinealiszyste diagnostiziert wurde, profitierte von einer individualisierten klassisch-homöopathischen Therapie mit den homöopathischen Präparaten Phosphorus und Natrum muriaticum. Die Migränesymptome besserten sich, und die zufällig diagnostizierte Pinealiszyste bildete sich im Laufe der Behandlung vollständig zurück.Die individualisierte klassische Homöopathie kann bei der wirksamen Behandlung von Migräne und Pinealiszysten bei Kindern und Jugendlichen eine Rolle spielen. Es bedarf weiterer wissenschaftlicher Untersuchungen mit gutem Studiendesign, um die Wirksamkeit dieser Behandlungsmethode nachzuweisen, wobei darauf zu achten ist, das Individualisierungsprinzip der klassischen Homöopathie aufrechtzuerhalten.

Desastres naturais: uma reflexão homeopática e oportunidade de intervenções / Natural disasters: a homeopathic reflection and opportunity to interventions

Os desastres naturais tem se intensificado nas últimas décadas causando impactos sobre a saúde humana e todas as esferas: física, psíquica e espiritual. Dentre as diferentes abordagens terapêuticas a Homeopatia surge como uma opção suave, segura, duradoura e de baixo custo. O objetivo deste artigo é mostrar as possibilidades de utilização da abordagem e dos medicamentos homeopáticos nestes eventos. Para tanto consideramos a Homeopatia aplicada nos diferentes níveis de atuação e complexidade dos cuidados à saúde. Concluindo, salientamos que a Homeopatia e os Médicos Homeopatas podem e devem participar nas ações de acolhimento e cuidado à saúde das pessoas direta ou indiretamente atingidas por este trágico evento.

Natural disasters have intensified in recent decades, causing impacts on human health and all spheres: physical, psychological and spiritual. Among the different therapeutic approaches, Homeopathy appears as a gentle, safe, long-lasting and low-cost option. The objective of this article is to show the possibilities of using the homeopathic approach and medicines in these events. To this end, we consider Homeopathy applied at different levels of activity and complexity of health care. In conclusion, we emphasize that Homeopathy and Homeopathic Doctors can and should participate in welcoming and caring for the health of people directly or indirectly affected by this tragic event.

Narratividade na promoção da saúde: limites e possibilidades da racionalidade médica homeopática no cuidado centrado no sujeito / Narrativity in promoting health: limits and possibilities of homeopathic medical rationality in subject-centered care

Este artigo tem como objeto o papel da narração das histórias de vida dos pacientes durante a consulta homeopática na promoção da saúde e produção de autonomia dos sujeitos. Objetivos e Metodologia: A partir da abordagem sócio-histórica, foi realizada revisão de literatura narrativa, a fim de identificar os limites e as possibilidades do ato de narrar na racionalidade médica homeopática para a produção de subjetividades e autonomia na trajetória singular de cada indivíduo levar sua vida. Considerações Finais: Há atualidade e consonância de conceitos da racionalidade médica homeopática com o paradigma contemporâneo da promoção da saúde; as narrativas produzidas no ato da anamnese homeopática têm a potencialidade de ampliar a compreensão médica e do indivíduo para além da doença, analisando o fenômeno existencial do adoecimento. A anamnese homeopática, ao valorizar as experiências existenciais relatadas no âmbito de uma consulta, concorre para uma valorização dos sujeitos, o que contribuiria para a construção de sua subjetividade, autonomia e emponderamento.

This article focuses on the role of narrating patients' life stories during homeopathic consultations in promoting health and producing autonomy for subjects. Objectives and Methodology: Using a socio-historical approach, a narrative literature review was carried out in order to identify the limits and possibilities of the act of narrating in homeopathic medical rationality for the production of subjectivities and autonomy in the unique trajectory of each individual. your life. Final Considerations: The concepts of homeopathic medical rationality are current and consistent with the contemporary paradigm of health promotion; The narratives produced in the act of homeopathic anamnesis have the potential to expand medical and individual understanding beyond the disease, analyzing the existential phenomenon of illness. Homeopathic anamnesis, by valuing the existential experiences reported in the context of a consultation, contributes to an appreciation of the subjects, which would contribute to the construction of their subjectivity, autonomy and empowerment.

Homeopatia: arquétipos e ressonância mórfica / Homeopathy: archetypes and morphic resonance

O inconsciente coletivo é um conceito formulado por Carl G. Jung que consiste de um nível de consciência primordial, compartilhado pelos membros de comunidade no âmbito familiar, racial, social, grupal, etc. e mediado por reações humanas instintivas ancestrais que não se baseiam na experiência individual. A assim chamada Ressonância Mórfica, elaborada por Rupert Sheldrake, amplia o conceito de inconsciente coletivo, pois opera em todo o universo, envolvendo elementos de todos os reinos da natureza. Representa uma memória coletiva auto-organizada influenciada por padrões semelhantes do passado. Poderíamos inferir que a totalidade de sintomas de uma patogenesia de uma substância é também um conjunto de símbolos e arquétipos. Cada substância está ligada aos seus ancestrais de uma mesma família botânica ou animal, como também ligada à formação geológica do nosso planeta. De forma semelhante, existe uma consciência de grupo que influencia todos os membros do sistema familiar. A verdadeira individualidade psíquica da criança é uma combinação de fatores coletivos, pois não apenas o corpo da criança, mas também sua alma, provém da série dos antepassados, no sentido de que ela não pode ser distinguida individualmente da alma coletiva da humanidade. Por estar espalhada por toda a parte na alma coletiva, a criança pequena "percebe" não apenas os condicionamentos mais profundos dos pais, mas também, em um âmbito mais extenso, o bem e o mal existentes nas profundezas da alma humana. Todos nós somos influenciados pelas dinâmicas sistêmicas do mundo que nos cerca. A tendência é repetir inconscientemente os problemas do passado e levá-los adiante. Desta forma, a noção de individualidade é relativizada. Ao estudarmos os medicamentos agregando-os por algum tipo de analogia para formar grupos ou famílias seja de origem mineral, vegetal ou animal, o conjunto de características, temas, arquétipos, sensações, sintomas comuns, etc. de um determinado grupo forma um campo mórfico no espaço-tempo, a qual os pacientes por ressonância ou similitude se ligam inconscientemente. O campo eletromagnético de cada indivíduo, mediado pelos seus sistemas de crenças e campos mórficos familiares, liga-se aos campos informacionais dos mitos, dos arquétipos e do inconsciente coletivo humano similares, podendo levar ao adoecimento.

The collective unconscious is a concept formulated by Carl G. Jung that consists of a primordial level of consciousness, shared by community members in the family, racial, social, group, etc. spheres and mediated by ancestral instinctive human reactions that are not based on individual experience. The so-called Morphic Resonance, elaborated by Rupert Sheldrake, expands the concept of the collective unconscious, as it operates throughout the universe, involving elements from all kingdoms of nature. It represents a self-organizing collective memory influenced by similar patterns from the past. We could infer that the totality of symptoms of a pathogenesis of a substance is also a set of symbols and archetypes. Each substance is linked to its ancestors from the same botanical or animal family, as well as linked to the geological formation of our planet. Similarly, there is a group consciousness that influences all members of the family system. The true psychic individuality of the child is a combination of collective factors, for not only the child's body, but also his soul, comes from the series of ancestors, in the sense that it cannot be distinguished individually from the collective soul of humanity. Because it is scattered everywhere in the collective soul, the young child "perceives" not only the deeper conditionings of the parents, but also, in a wider scope, the good and evil existing in the depths of the human soul. We are all influenced by the systemic dynamics of the world around us. The tendency is to unconsciously repeat the problems of the past and carry them forward. In this way, the notion of individuality is relativized. When we study medicines by aggregating them by some kind of analogy to form groups or families, whether of mineral, vegetable or animal origin, the set of characteristics, themes, archetypes, sensations, common symptoms, etc. of a given group forms a morphic field in space-time, to which patients by resonance or similarity unconsciously attach themselves. Each individual's electromagnetic field, mediated by their belief systems and familiar morphic fields, is linked to the informational fields of similar myths, archetypes, and the human collective unconscious, and can lead to illness.

Reexperimentação patogenética homeopática de Agaricus Muscarius e comparação com a Matéria Médica / Homeopathic pathogenetic re-experimentation of Agaricus Muscarius and comparison with Materia Medica

A Homeopatia é um sistema terapêutico baseado no princípio da similitude. A experimentação sistemática de substâncias em pessoas sadias permite conhecer os sintomas que elas provocam (patogenesia). A reunião de diferentes patogenesias forma as Matérias Médicas, dentre as quais destaca-se como referência até hoje The Guiding Symptoms of Our Materia Medica, de Constantine Hering. Objetivo: Avaliar a concordância da experimentação atual de um medicamento homeopático (Agaricus muscarius) com os dados constantes em Matéria Médica de referência. Metodologia: Foi realizada uma experimentação patogenética breve no formato de um ensaio randomizado duplo- -cego, placebo-controlado com cross-over. Foi experimentado o medicamento Agaricus muscarius na dinamização 30 CH. A experimentação teve duração de 8 semanas. Os sintomas foram classificados, graduados e ordenados para análise estatística. Foram utilizados os testes de Kolgomorov- Smirnov para normalidade dos dados e t de Student e ANOVA para comparação entre grupos. A pesquisa foi aprovada pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa com Seres Humanos da Fundação Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul. Resultados: Não foi encontrada diferença significativa entre os escores de correspondência de sintomas dos participantes com a Matéria Médica quando usaram medicamento e quando usaram placebo. Mais da metade dos sintomas teve um grau moderado a alto de correspondência com a Matéria Médica (59,4%) e um grau elevado de associação com o uso do medicamento (53,1%). Conclusão: A reexperimentação de Agaricus muscarius produziu sintomas em sua maioria correspondentes àqueles registrados em Matéria Médica de referência e com alto grau de associação ao uso do medicamento.

Homeopathy is a therapeutic system based on the similitude principle, Systematic substance experimentation in healthy subjects allows knowing the symptoms they cause (pathogenesis). The assemblage of various pathogeneses yields homeopathic therapeutic compendia called Materia Medica, among which The Guiding Symptoms of Our Materia Medica, by Constantine Hering, remains an important reference. Objective: Evaluate the concordance between the present experimentation of a homeopathic medicine (Agaricus muscarius) and the data from a referential Materia Medica. Methods: A brief pathogenetic experimentation was performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo- -controlled cross-over trial. The medicine Agaricus muscarius was experimented as 30 CH dynamization. The experimentation lasted for 8 weeks. Symptoms were classified, graded and ordered for statistical analysis. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used for data normality and t-Student test and ANOVA for between-group comparison. The research was approved by the Human Beings Research Ethics Committee from the Foundation Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul. Results: No significant differences in symptom correspondence scores were noted when participants were administered remedy vs placebo. More than half of experimentation pathogenesis symptoms had a moderate to high correspondence degree to the Materia Medica (59,4%) and a high association degree to the use of remedy (53,1%). Conclusion: Reexperimentation of Agaricus muscarius has produced symptoms mostly correspondent