Council For Research In Homoeopathy Research Articles

Homoeopathic Pathogenetic Trial of Catharanthus roseus: A Multicentric, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

AbstractMedicinal plants have a long history of usage in traditional medicine, and Catharanthus roseus L. (G.) Don is one such plant. However, to understand its homoeopathic therapeutic effect, it was important to find the pathogenetic powers by conducting a drug proving trial. To elicit the pathogenetic response of C. roseus in homoeopathic potencies on healthy human provers, a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted at four centers under the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy. The proving trial involved 60 relatively healthy provers. All provers were given placebo in the first phase. After randomization, 40 provers in the intervention group were given C. roseus in 6C, 12C, 30C, and 200C potencies in four phases. The control group of 20 provers were administered unmedicated globules in all the phases. A maximum of 12 doses divided into 4 doses/day for 3 days were administered in all phases of the trial. The symptoms and signs manifested during the trial were noted down by the provers, elaborated by the proving masters, and the data were finally processed at the proving-cum-data processing cell of the Council. Among the 40 provers of the verum group, only 15 provers manifested 22 pathogenetic and 10 placebo symptoms, whereas 30 symptoms were reported by 12 provers in the control group. The symptoms have been manifested predominantly in 200C potency. The pathogenetic response elicited during this trial expands the scope of the use of C. roseus and needs to be further validated by a clinical verification study.

Immunological Responses of Arsenicum album 30CH to Combat COVID-19: Protocol for a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial in the Pathanamthitta District of Kerala.

COVID-19 is a recent major public health concern caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with approximately 44.6 million COVID-19-positive cases and 530,000 deaths in India (as of February 1, 2023). The COVID-19 vaccination drive in India was initiated in January 2021; however, an effective preventive strategy with high efficacy and immunological safety remains elusive. The aim of this study is to assess the immunogenic responses of Arsenicum album 30CH (AA30CH) as COVID-19 prophylaxis, including assessment of immunological markers, innate and acquired immune responses, COVID-19 symptoms, and its associated antibody responses. This randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) will include two parallel comparator groups of AA30CH and placebo with an allocation ratio of 1:1 conducted in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India. The placebo or AA30CH will be administered in three intervention schedules and blood samples will be collected before and after each of the intervention schedules. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 112 participants per arm (with an expected dropout of 20%) will be screened. Immunogenic responses will be evaluated by determining the antigen density and modulation in immunological markers and lymphocyte subsets CD3, CD4, CD8, CD24, CD27, CD38, CD4 interferon-γ, CD4 CD17, CD4 CD25 (activated T lymphocytes), T cells, B cells, dendritic cells (mature and immature), and natural killer cells on days 1, 5, 23,27, 45, 49, and 66. The innate and acquired immune responses will also be evaluated by a real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) array profiler (84-gene set) before and after the study interventions. The toxicity status of AA30CH in study participants will be evaluated through hepatic, renal, and hematological parameters and peripheral smears on days 1, 5, 23, 27, 45, 49, and 66. The number of participants developing COVID-19-like symptoms per National Centre for Disease Control guidelines and the number of participants testing positive for COVID-19 in RT-PCR during follow-ups in any of the three intervention schedules will be identified. Moreover, a subgroup analysis will be used to assess the COVID-19 antibody responses between vaccinated and unvaccinated participants. This RCT protocol has been approved by various committees and funded by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India. The project has been implemented in collaboration with the Department of Homoeopathy, Government of Kerala. The RCT was rolled out on January 25, 2023, and enrollment was completed April 3, 2023. The immunological assays will be conducted at the Department of Biotechnology-Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India. This study will represent the first evaluation of the immunological efficacy and safety of AA30CH in an RCT, which may significantly impact the use of homeopathy as an evidence-based medicine approach. Clinical Trials Registry-India CTRI/2022/08/045089; https://tinyurl.com/mryrpkvk. DERR1-10.2196/48479.

Biochemistry in Homoeopathic System of Medicine

Background [1-3, 10, 20]: When Dr. John Paterson (1890-1955) of United Kingdom read out his paper on ‘Bowel Nosodes’ to the Rodanienne homoeopathic society at the meeting of the International Homoeopathic League Council in August 1949 at Lyon, France, he actually brought out the relation between biochemistry and homoeopathy. He not only presented the clinical aspects of the ‘bowel nosodes’ but also the biochemical analysis of each of the nosodes. Although Dr. Jacob Moleschott (1832-1893) and Dr. Justus Von Liebig (1803-1873) were the motivators to lay the fundamentals of biochemistry, the motivation could lead to the introduction of Biochemic system of medicine into homoeopathic therapeutics by Dr. Wilhelm Heinrich Schussler (1821-1898) after 24 years of Dr. Paterson’s efforts i.e. in 1973. Dr. Schussler introduced more and more biodynamic explanations for therapeutics of mineral salts. The Biochemic system of medicine or the inorganic cell salt therapy is the oldest form of nutraceutical therapy approved and recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as one of the complementary therapies. Dr. Schussler developed the Schussler tissue remedies using an unique system of cellular therapy, biochemistry (the chemistry of living tissues) which continue to be popular in homoeopathic therapeutics in current times. As each & every drug in Homoeopathy is only proved on human beings, all the drugs have a mental component as it is only human beings who can express their physical & mental symptoms during proving of the drugs as per the guidelines set by the Homoeopathic Research Councils (HRC) of each nation. In India, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, an autonomous body under the ministry of AYUSH lays out such guidelines. The article gains more relevance during the current COVID 19 pandemic which has precipitated the stress levels of population since March 2020 and most of them are more prone to physical and mental disorders during their life stage thus disturbing the biochemistry of the body. The biochemic system of in homoeopathic therapeutics tries to restore this disturbed biochemistry.

A Multi-Centric Single-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of the Individualized Homeopathic Intervention in Breast Fibroadenoma

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of homeopathic medicines in the reduction or resolution of breast fibroadenoma (FA) through ultrasound (US) assessment in intervention and control groups. The secondary objective was to compare the efficacy of the homeopathic intervention in single and multiple fibroadenomas. A single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study was conducted from January 2014 to June 2018 at 4 research centers with 6 months of follow-up. Females in the age group 18 to 35 years, with a confirmed diagnosis of breast fibroadenoma measuring between 1 cm and 5 cm, measured by the US, with only one fibroadenoma per quadrant were randomized to either homeopathic intervention (HI) or identical placebo (P) (n = 85) in each group. All the patients were enrolled in the study with due consent from them. The Ethical Committee, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH), New Delhi, India, approved the study. The trial was registered with the Clinical Trial Registry-India (CTRI) vide no. CTRI/2013/11/004144 [Registered on: 14/11/2013]. Out of the 85 cases enrolled in each group, the ITT analysis was done for n = 73 participants with a mean area of FA (3.11 ± 3.00) in HI and n = 77 participants with a mean area of FA (3.65 ± 3.29) in the P group at baseline. US assessment of 12 cases in the intervention group and 8 cases in the placebo group exceeded the study duration. Therefore, was analyzed as a sub-group and was not considered under ITT analysis. FA was the unit of analysis. At 6 months, complete resolution occurred in 2 participants in the intervention group and none in the placebo group. Although there is a significant difference between the intervention and the placebo groups at 3<sup>rd</sup> and 6<sup>th</sup> months, the within-group difference is insignificant. No significant difference is observed between and within the single and multiple FAs groups. Out of the 85 cases in the medicine group, 78 received a single remedy throughout the study in centesimal potencies. The frequently prescribed medicines were Pulsatilla, Silicea, Phosphorus, Sepia, and Calcarea Carbonica. IIndividualized homeopathy has significantly reduced FAs compared to the placebo group. However, the difference within the groups is not statistically significant. Future studies should be conducted based on adequate samples with long-term follow-up for resolution and recurrence if any.

Dealing Fatty Liver through HHH- ‘Homoeopathy & Hepatic Health’ Care

Background [12, 18]: The current article looks into the aspects of HH disorders during the life period out of which fatty liver is one of the main challenges. The article looks into the brief history of public health programs on hepatic health issues in India & the emergence of fatty liver as an issue. It moves on to the current situation on fatty liver in India & the role of Homoeopathy to deal with these disorders therapeutically as a component of Ministry of AYUSH. The article suggests the integration of medical pluralism in hepatic health through inclusion of Homoeopathy in the gamete of HH health. As each & every drug in Homoeopathy is only proved on human beings, all the drugs have a mental component as it is only human beings who can express their physical & mental symptoms during proving of the drugs as per the guidelines set by the Homoeopathic Research Councils (HRC) of each nation. In India, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, an autonomous body under the ministry of AYUSH lays out such guidelines. The article gains more relevance during the current COVID 19 pandemic which has precipitated the stress levels of population since March 2020 and most of them are more prone to liver disorders during their life stage.

A scientific convention on the World Homoeopathy Day: ‘Homoeopathy: People’s choice for wellness’ – A Conference Report

Three apex bodies, namely the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, the National Commission for Homoeopathy and the National Institute of Homoeopathy, jointly organised a scientific convention on the occasion of the World Homoeopathy Day to commemorate the 267th birth anniversary of the founder of Homoeopathy, Dr Christian Fredrich Samuel Hahnemann which was held on 9 and 10 April 2022 at New Delhi on the theme ‘Homoeopathy: People’s Choice for Wellness’. Over the 2 days, scientific sessions and interactive meets were held. This convention was an opportunity to review the developments in the field of Homoeopathy and formulate future strategies for the advancements of Homoeopathy to make homoeopathy the first choice for people for wellness.

National Convention on World Homoeopathy Day – A conference report

Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy organized a scientific convention on the World Homoeopathy Day on 10th and 11thApril, 2021 to commemorate the 266th birth anniversary of Dr Christian Fredrich Samuel Hahnemann at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, India. The theme of the conference was ‘Homoeopathy – Roadmap for Integrative Medicine’. There were oral presentations and a panel discussion during the convention organized in the hybrid mode, with participants and presenters attending the convention either physically, or remotely through video link. Recommendations to develop a roadmap for Homoeopathy for integrative care were also proposed during the convention. Integration is not simply co-location of all systems but a wholesome clinical approach for the public health benefit where systems have known limitations. Specific strategic actions are needed at research, practice and education levels to promote integrative care with Homoeopathy as a key contributor.

Homoeopathy for Post COVID 19 illnesses: A Case Series

Introduction: As much as the prevention and treatment of COVID 19 has posed challenge, its post infection sequelae have not been any less challenging. There has been an emerging menace and concern for post COVID 19 illnesses. Patients with microbiological recovery from COVID‐19 show most common symptoms like fatigue, dyspnoea, cough, headache, tightness of chest, arthralgia, muscle pain with drop in the quality of life. Limited treatment options are available in the conventional set up. Cases summary: We present nine cases that were treated for post COVID 19 symptoms at Regional Research Institute (H.), Mumbai, under Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy. Out of these, seven cases were of acute Post Covid condition and two presented with Chronic Covid sequelae. All these patients were under standard conventional care/treatment but had no resolution of Post Covid symptoms. The Post Covid symptoms reported in these cases were fatigue, dyspnoea on exertion, cough, profuse perspiration, chest tightness and profuse perspiration. Bryonia Alba was the most useful remedy apart from Sulphur, Arsenicum Album, Rhus Toxicodendron and Calcarea Carbonicum. The cases have demonstrated a positive role of homoeopathic treatment in relieving the Post COVID illnesses.

Homoeopathic Medicine Arsenicum album, the prophylactic/immune booster in COVID-19 pandemic

Background: Homoeopathic medicine Arsenicum album (Ars. alb) has been advised by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India based on the recommendations of Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) as a prophylactic/ immune booster for prevention of COVID-19 disease. This paper narrates available evidence from laboratory studies, clinical studies, toxicological studies for Ars. alb. as a prophylactic/ immune booster.

Homoeopathic treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia: an open randomized multicentric placebo controlled clinical trial

Background: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) associated with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) is the most common condition in ageing men. The epidemiological studies estimate that 90% of men between 45 and 80 years of age suffer some type of LUTS.1 There is paucity of such epidemiological data from India but one study reports the prevalence of BPH among rural elderly of India as 11.8%2. 
 Although LUTS secondary to BPH (LUTS/BPH) is not often a life-threatening condition, the impact of LUTS/BPH and its complications on Quality of Life (QoL) can be significant and should not be underestimated.3 When the effect of BPH-associated LUTS on QoL was studied in a number of community-based populations, for many, the most important motivations for seeking treatment were the severity and the degree of bother associated with the symptoms.4LUTS include storage and/or voiding disturbances common in ageing men. Although voiding symptoms are most common, storage symptoms responsible for daytime frequency, urgency and nocturia interfere the most with life activities. Homoeopathic constitutional treatment is useful in the treatment of a constellation of symptoms due to BPH and LUTS. Along with constitutional medicine homoeopathic practitioners are using organ medicines having special affinity for prostate and urinary bladder with good results. Traditionally the primary goal of treatment is to alleviate bothersome LUTS that result from prostatic enlargement. The literature review indicates that both homoeopathic constitutional medicines as well as organ specific remedies show positive results in relieving the symptoms of BPH but the study was not randomized and there was no control group to show its efficacy. In this backdrop the present study was undertaken to evaluate the storage and voiding symptoms of men having BPH through an internationally validated scale IPSS and the role of homoeopathic intervention, both constitutional and organ remedies on LUTS due to BPH and QoL of the patient.
 
 Objectives: The primary objective was to compare the changes in IPSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) within the three groups enrolled for the study (Constitutional remedy/Constitutional + Organ remedy/Placebo). The secondary objectives were to compare the changes in Prostate volume, Post Void Residual Urine (PVRU), Uroflowmetry and in WHOQOL-BREF.5
 
 Material and Methods: The study was done in an open randomized placebo controlled setting at five research centers under Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy. The patients in the age group of 50-80 years presenting with the symptoms of incomplete emptying, frequency, intermittency, urgency, weak stream, straining and nocturia were screened from the general OPD as per ICD-10 Classification Code N40.0 following the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A consultant Urologist was appointed at each center to screen and follow up the enrolled cases. The participants who qualified the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study after obtaining the ‘Informed Written Consent’. It was a three armed randomized clinical trial where Intervention was administered as per the randomization chart for three groups i.e. homoeopathic constitutional medicine in LM potency (Group 1), homoeopathic constitutional medicine in LM potency with organ remedy in mother tincture and 3X (Group 2) and placebo (Group 3) in 2:2:1 ratio. The patients were followed for six months and the outcome of intervention was assessed monthly for IPSS (Primary objective) and at third and sixth month for prostate volume, post void residual urine, Qmax and Qavg, PSA and WHOQOL-BREF, (Secondary objectives). Internationally validated scales (IPSS &WHOQOL-BREF) were used to assess the outcome. Primary safety endpoint was any adverse event which may be life threatening, requires prolonged hospital stay, results in significant disability, an injury, accident or any other important medical event. 
 
 474 patients were screened and 252 patients were enrolled in the study. The analysis of these patients as per protocol and as per intention to treat was carried out using repeated measures ANOVA and paired T test.
 
 Results: Out of 254 patients enrolled in the study (HC=103, HC + O = 102 and Placebo = 49), 152 were analyzed as per protocol (HC=71, HC + O = 53 and Placebo = 28) as they completed a follow up period of 6 months whereas, 241 patients were analyzed as per ITT (HC=101, HC + O = 92 and Placebo = 48). 13 patients were excluded from analysis for reasons such as protocol violation and incomplete baseline information. There was statistically significant improvement in all the seven components of IPSS, WHOQOL- BREF and Q max values of uroflowmetry in both per protocol as well as ITT analysis. 
 
 Discussion: Results from this trial will help in constructing treatment strategy for BPH patients with lower urinary tract symptoms to enable them to make an informed decision about available alternatives for the management of LUTS in BPH. The limitation of the study was that it was not blinded. The inhibition for not making it blinded was the use of mother tinctures of organ specific medicines in liquids of different colors and odours which could not be blinded. Pragmatic trial with longer follow up and a parallel arm comprising of conventional treatment may be undertaken in future to compare their role on LUTS due to BPH on pathological and pathophysiological parameters such as prostatic volume and post void residual urine.
 
 Trial Registration: Clinical Trial Registry - India: CTRI/2012/05/002649.

Growth and development of homeopathy in India: a perception study in and around Kolkata

India is a country of wide diversity in terms of physiography, climate, language, religion andavailable methods or systems of treatment. India also has a rich culture and heritage with ancient beliefs and knowledge; a large number of people use traditional methods of healing. 
 
 Homeopathy was first introduced in Kolkata, in 1810, by a German geologist who had come to perform geological investigations. By this time, Mr. Mullence, of the London Missionary Society, was known for treating the local people of southern Kolkata. The Calcutta Medical College was the first homeopathic medical college, established in 1881. This institution played a major role in the spread of homeopathy in India. However, at an earlier time, a homeopathic hospital was set up by the surgeon Samuel Brooking in south India. Many clinics and dispensaries opened at this time. 
 
 In 1973, the Government of India passed the Central Act, by which homeopathy is recognized as one of the national systems of medicine in India. This represents a true milestone in the growth and development of homeopathy in the country. The Central Council of Homeopathy (CCH) was established to regulate homeopathy education.
 
 In the present time, there are about 200 homeopathic medical colleges and 38 post-graduate colleges that deliver degree courses; institutions such as like CCH (Central Council of Homoeopathy), NIH (National Institute of Homoeopathy), CCRH (Central Council For Research In Homoeopathy), AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy)promote high-level research. Several hundred thousands of practitioners deliver homeopathic medications all over the country. There are over 200, 000 registered homeopathic doctors, and further 12,000 graduate every year. Government of India introduced the Homeopathic Enquiry Committee in 1948, which recognized homeopathy as a scientific system of medicine. Scientific homeopathic research is performed by investigators from different fields, such as: zoology, physiology, physics, etc. The mechanism of action of homoeopathic potency is actively investigated by them. The experiments are performed on human, animal and plant’s body. The faith in homeopathy increases day by day, as it represents a safe, effective and natural mode of healing. 
 
 The aims of the present study were: 1) to analyze the growth and development of homeopathy in India; 2) To establish the degree of acceptance of homeopathy by different socioeconomic groups; and 3) To establish the degree of satisfaction with homeopathic treatment of different socioeconomic groups.
 
 The study was based on primary and secondary data. The primary data were collected in a survey using a questionnaire applied to 100 individuals, randomly selected and with different socioeconomic background in and around Kolkata; the participants were categorized in 3 groups. The secondary data were gathered from the electronic media. The data were subjected to statistical analysis. Variables assessed were: 1) frequency of visits to homeopathic services; 2) type of diseases for which homeopathy is preferred; 3) age range for which homeopathy is preferred; 4) Weather the respondent is the first generation using homeopathic medicine or his/her ancestors used to take it; and 5) level of satisfaction. These variables were compared among the 3 groups.
 
 The result showed that low-income group - family income 8,400 Euro per month (businessmen, college professors etc) prefer homeopathy for their children, visit reputed urban doctors and obtain medicines from reputed manufacturers, but the level of satisfaction is almost equal in 2nd and 3rd groups.

Homoeopathic pathogenetic trial of Cuprum aceticum: A multicentric, double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial

Background: Although the symptomatology of Cuprum metallicum is quite vast, its other salts have fragmentary proving. Thus, homoeopathic pathogenetic trial for Cuprum aceticum (Cu acet.) was taken up. Objective: To elicit the pathogenetic response to Cu acet. in homoeopathic potencies on healthy human provers. Materials and Methods: A multi-center, double-blind randomized, placebo controlled, trial was conducted at three centers of Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy. Proving was conducted on 50 relatively healthy provers selected after conducting the Pretrial Medical Examination. All the provers were given placebo during the first phase of the trial. In the next two phases, Cu acet. was administered in 6 C and 30 C potencies, in the intervention group (n = 34); and placebo in the placebo group (n = 16), after randomization. The proving data so generated on Cu acet. were compiled and analyzed at the proving-cum-data processing cell. Results: Out of 34 provers who were on actual drug trial, only 12 provers manifested symptoms. Twenty-six and 20 symptoms were manifested in 6C and 30C potency, respectively. Conclusion: The pathogenetic response elicited during the proving trial expands the scope of use of the homoeopathic medicine C. aceticum. The symptoms generated in this trial will carry more value when verified clinically.

Counting Polar Symptoms: How to Represent Results?

Polar symptoms (PS)-symptoms with opposite values-are frequently used in homeopathy, but have many misleading entries in the repertory. This is caused by using absolute occurrence of symptoms, causing the same medicine to appear in both (opposite) symptom rubrics, and by lack of comparison with other medicines. Some PS, like 'aversion/desire for sweets' have a frequency distribution that is not evenly distributed around the neutral value: a desire for sweets is much more common than aversion. A desire for sweets is an indication for a specific medicine only if this desire occurs more frequently in this specific medicine population than in the remainder of the population. We need to find the best way to represent this difference. A multi-centre, explorative, prospective, observational study was conducted by nine centres of the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy. Two-hundred and sixteen patients were enrolled with chronic cough lasting more than 8 weeks, and received usual homeopathic care. During intake, 30 general PS, 27 polar cough symptoms and 3 non-polar cough symptoms were checked. Different ways of representing results were explored, including two quantities borrowed from mechanics: Centre of Mass (CoM) and Leverage. At the fourth follow-up, three medicines with more than 10 cases with good results were identified: 20 Phosphorus, 19 Pulsatilla and 13 Sulphur. The mean value of the frequency distribution of some symptoms in the whole sample was considerably different from the neutral value. Comparing a medicine population with the remainder of the respective population can give results that differ from polarity analysis. For some symptoms, the 'distance' (Leverage) between the CoMs of the medicine population and the remainder of the population was clearer than the likelihood ratio (LR). If the LR value is not clear about the prognostic value in PS, notions from mechanics such as CoM and Leverage can clarify how to interpret a polar symptom.

Homoeopathy in Mental Disorders in Postpartum Stage

Reading a heading in the Hindustan Times supplement on 10th May (Mother’s day) which wrote ‘Mum is not a good word’ was surprising & when delved in to the article, it was about mothers who went through postnatal depression & have narrated their painful experiences & how they came out of the situation. The current article looks into the aspects of mental disorders during postnatal period out of which postnatal depression is one of the disorders. The article looks into the brief history of public health programs on mental health in India & the emergence of maternal mental health as an issue. It moves on to the current situation on postnatal disorders in India & the role of Homoeopathy to deal with these disorders therapeutically as a component of Ministry of AYUSH. The article suggests the integration of medical pluralism in mental health through inclusion of Homoeopathy in the gamete of mental health. As each & every drug in Homoeopathy is only proved on human beings, all the drugs have a mental component as it is only human beings who can express their physical & mental symptoms during proving of the drugs as per the guidelines set by the Homoeopathic research councils of each nation. In India, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, an autonomous body under the ministry of AYUSH lays out such guidelines. The article gains more relevance during the current COVID 19 crisis which has precipitated the stress levels & the mothers who have delivered since March 2020 are more prone to mental disorders during their postnatal stage.

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

BackgroundIn 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. ObjectiveTo assess efficacy of individualized homoeopathic medicines in management of DDSP. MethodsA 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. ResultsData 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. ConclusionFurther studies must be taken up with larger sample size and defined parameters for NCS to assess the effectiveness of homoeopathy.

Role of Silicea in Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Retrospectively Analysed Case Series

Abstract Background and Objectives Diabetic foot is a condition especially vulnerable to amputation because of frequent complications of peripheral neuropathy, infection and peripheral arterial disease. Diabetic foot problems are a major cause of hospitalisation and prolonged hospital stays, constituting 20% of those entering hospitals. If treatment is delayed or improper treatment is given, it leads to infection, gangrene and amputation. Homoeopathic literature reveals that Silicea is a useful medicine for ulcers, but there is dearth of systematic research in this area. This article is an effort to provide detailed information of potentised Silicea in reference to diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). Method A prospective observational study was conducted by Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy at its Extension Clinical Research Unit, Hyderabad, from 2005 to 2009. From the study, cases where Silicea (n = 22) was indicated and prescribed were taken for retrospective analysis. Results The analysis showed usefulness of Silicea in treating DFU. The baseline symptom score of DFU and sugar values were statistically analysed before and after treatment. The mean symptom scores at the baseline (8.41 ± 3.03) and at the end of treatment (0.27 ± 0.70) were found to be statistically significant (p = 0.001). Conclusion The result of the role of Silicea in ulcer healing was found to be positive and encouraging. Further, to validate the effect of Silicea, randomised controlled trials can be undertaken.

Optimising the use of polar symptoms in Homoeopathy: Introduction to a pilot study of prognostic factor research in chronic cough

Background: Polar symptoms represent the most challenging rubrics in the homoeopathic repertories, despite their frequent use. Objective: The study objective was to assess the relationship between 27 polar cough symptoms, 3 non-polar cough symptoms and 30 general polar symptoms and successful response to specific homoeopathic medicines. Materials and Methods: A multi-centre, explorative, prospective, observational study was conducted at ten centres under the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy. Two hundred and sixteen patients were enrolled with chronic cough, lasting >8 weeks. The patients were enrolled as per four underlying diagnoses of chronic upper airway cough syndrome (CUACS), gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), asthma and related syndromes, and non-asthmatic eosinophilic bronchitis (NAEB). 30 general polar symptoms, 27 polar cough symptoms and 3 non-polar cough symptoms were assessed at the baseline. During enrollment and follow-up consultations, two validated questionnaires (Leicester Cough Questionnaire chronic and EuroQuol (EQ)-5D-5L) were filled for assessing the effect of treatment. If the Physician Assessment Score was >2, the causal relationship between improvement and prescribed medicine was further assessed using Modified Naranjo Algorithm. Results: At the fourth follow-up, three medicines with >10 cases having good result were identified: Phosphorus (n = 20), Pulsatilla (n = 19) and Sulphur (n = 13). For this introductory article, we compare some results with the existing data, reflect on discrepancies between the existing data and research outcome and reflect on future use, especially in respiratory tract infections (RTIs). Conclusion: In improving the homoeopathic method and its practical use, priority should be given to polar symptoms, especially related to RTIs.

Homoeopathic drug proving researches (1996–2018): A scoping review

Background: A systematic review on homoeopathic pathogenetic trials (HPTs) from 1945 to 1995 was published in 2007, and the basic question whether the effect produced by homoeopathic drugs in healthy human volunteers is equivalent to placebo or otherwise remained unanswered. There is a need to take up another review of HPTs conducted in the last two decades, to assess the changes in the methodologies adapted and to assess whether the effects produced in apparently healthy volunteers is due to homoeopathic medicines in high dilutions or not. Objective: To seek, collect, review and describe HPTs published during 1996–2018. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search, both electronic and manual, was done using search terms ‘homoeopathic drug proving’ and ‘homoeopathic pathogenetic trial’ with time constraint of 1996–2018 in English language. As per the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the papers were selected for extraction of data in the predefined extraction form. Results: One hundred and forty-seven eligible records (74 peer-reviewed [PR] and 73 non-peer-reviewed [NPR]) of HPTs of 214 drugs were identified and subjected to the extraction of data. Majority of the drug proving records were contributed by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy which included 86 records (24 PR and 62 NPR) with the data of 24 and 63 drugs, respectively, and by Riley, one book (NPR) with data of 68 drugs. Heterogeneity was encountered in all aspects – design, conduct, participants and outcome reporting.Conclusion: This preliminary study is the basis for data recovery and for the forthcoming program of systematic review and meta-analysis, which may include the HPTs published in other languages.

World Homoeopathy Day 2020: Connecting digitally during the adversities of COVID-19 lockdown

The Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH), with support from the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, organised its first Webinar on World Homoeopathy Day on 10 April 2020 to commemorate the birth anniversary of the founder of Homoeopathy, Dr Samuel Hahnemann. Considering the need of hour and utilising the advancements of digital platforms, the CCRH decided to organise this webinar focusing on the role of Homoeopathy in COVID-19, for the homoeopathic fraternity and to unite them digitally. The webinar was inaugurated by Shri. Shripad Naik, Minister of State (IC), Ministry of AYUSH; Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Sh. PK Pathak, Additional Secretary; and Sh. Roshan Jaggi, Joint Secretary from the Ministry of AYUSH, also graced the occasion with their live addresses. Keynote speaker Prof. George Vithoulkas, Director, International Academy of Classical Homeopathy, Dr Robbert V Haselen, Member, Homoeopathic Pharmacopeia of United States, and Prof. Aaron To, Director, Living Homoeopathy, Hong Kong, also joined in as valued speakers. Significant deliberations were also made by Dr V. K. Gupta, Chairman, Scientific Advisory Board, CCRH, Dr Anil Khurana, Director General In-charge, CCRH; Dr Raj K Manchanda, Director, Directorate of AYUSH, Government of Delhi; Dr S R K Vidyarthi Director, Ministry of AYUSH; and Dr Subhas Singh, Director, National Institute of Homoeopathy, Kolkata. The Council humbly thanks them for their generosity and sparing their valuable time for this event at a short notice.

Asclepias curassavica—A Multicentric, Randomised, Double-Blind Homoeopathic Pathogenetic Trial

Abstract Objective To elicit the pathogenetic response of the drug Asclepias curassavica in homoeopathic potencies on healthy human beings. Methodology Drug Asclepias curassavica was proved by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy through randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled method. The study was conducted at four centres. The drug was proved in two potencies (6C and 30C) on 67 apparently healthy volunteers who were selected after conducting pre-trial medical examination by the medical specialists and routine laboratory investigations. In the first phase, volunteers were given 56 doses (04 doses per day for 14 days) of placebo. In the next two phases, 56 doses (04 doses per day for 14 days) of each potency or placebo were consumed. The symptoms generated during the trial period were noted by the volunteers and elaborated by the Proving Masters. The data obtained from all the four centres was compiled at proving-cum-data processing cell at CCRH headquarters after de-coding. Observations Out of the 44 provers who were on actual drug trial, 21 manifested symptoms. Drug was able to produce symptoms in both the potencies more or less related to every part of the body. Conclusion The pathogenetic responses elicited during the proving trial expands the scope of use of the drug Asclepias curassavica and will benefit the research scholars and clinicians. These symptoms will carry more value when verified clinically.