Homeopathic Clinic Research Articles

Pharmacoeconomic Evaluation of Homeopathy: Assessing Efficacy, Economics, and Policy Perspectives

Background: In contemporary healthcare, evidence-based practices are fundamental for ensuring optimal patient outcomes and resource allocation. Essential steps for conducting pharmacoeconomic studies in homeopathy involve study design, intervention identification, comparator selection, outcome measures definition, data collection, cost analysis, effectiveness analysis, cost-effectiveness analysis, cost-benefit analysis, sensitivity analysis, reporting, and peer review. While conventional medicine undergoes rigorous pharmacoeconomic evaluations, the field of homeopathy often lacks such scrutiny. However, the importance of pharmacoeconomic studies in homeopathy is increasingly recognized, given its growing integration into modern healthcare systems. Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) was performed to identify relevant literature using keywords such as "homeopathy," "pharmacoeconomics," and "efficacy." Articles meeting inclusion criteria were assessed for quality using established frameworks like the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS). Data synthesis was conducted thematically, focusing on study objectives, methodologies, findings, and conclusions. Results: Ten pharmacoeconomic studies within homeopathy were identified, demonstrating varying degrees of compliance with reporting guidelines. While most studies reported costs comprehensively, some lacked methodological transparency, particularly in analytic methods. Heterogeneity was observed in study designs and outcome measures, reflecting the complexity of economic evaluation in homeopathy. Quality of evidence varied, with some studies exhibiting robust methodologies while others had limitations. Conclusion: Based on the review, recommendations include promoting homeopathic clinics, providing policy support, adopting collaborative healthcare models, and leveraging India's homeopathic resources. Pharmacoeconomic studies in homeopathy are crucial for evaluating its economic implications compared to conventional medicine. While certain studies demonstrated methodological rigor, opportunities exist for enhancing consistency, transparency, and quality in economic evaluations. Addressing these challenges is essential for informing decision-making regarding the economic aspects of homeopathic interventions

Profile of pediatric patients at Instituto de Cultura Homeopática.

This paper presents the results of a study aiming to establish the profile of pediatric patients under treatment at the Instituto de Cultura Homeopática (ICEH) between 2002 and 2004 in order to show the expressivity of this population. Data taken into account were: age; gender; referral; geographical distribution; number of follow-up consultations/year; number of drop-outs and clinical diagnosis. The results were compared to similar data in general homeopathic and pediatric outpatient non homeopathic clinics.

In Vitro Effects of Natrum muriaticum in Kidney Cell Lines MDCK and LLC-PK1

Previous papers have indicated that homeopathic solutions modify the cellular and biochemical aspects of cells maintained in culture. In this study, the effects of Natrum muriaticum, a medicine used in the homeopathic clinic for the treatment of hypertension, were evaluated in kidney MDCK and LLC-PK1 cell lines. The following cellular parameters were analyzed: viability, morphology and expression of the (Na+-K+)-ATPase and the angiotensin II receptors AT1 and AT2. The cell lines were plated (5.0 x 104 cells/mL) in DMEM supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum (FCS). After 24 hours at 37°C, DMEM was re-fed with the addition of 10% (V/V) and 1% (V/V) of the following samples: Natrum muriaticum 30CH, water 30CH and non-dynamized sterile distilled water to do the MTT assay. The results obtained from these groups were compared to those obtained by incubation of the cells in culture medium free of these solutions (Control). Cell viability was assessed by a colorimetric MTT ELISA assay (490nm). The values from four independent experiments performed in quintuplicate were plotted and statistically analyzed by Sigma Plot v.11 (Jandel Scientific). The morphology of MDCK cells was evaluated by optical microscope after Giemsa’s staining. The expression of the (Na++K+)-ATPase and AT1/AT2 of LLC-PK1 cells was evaluated by Western Blot (WB) analysis. For this experimental set, 5.0x104 cells/mL were incubated in DMEM supplemented with 10% FCS and daily culture medium was replaced by a new one, containing: Natrum muriaticum 30CH and water 30CH. Additionally, cells were treated for 5, 10 and 15 days with 1% of specific solutions and the total protein was measured by the Lowry method, after cell lysis. The samples were analyzed by electrophoresis in SDS-PAGE (12% gel) and transferred to nitrocellulose membrane. This membrane was incubated with specific primary antibodies (anti-(Na++K+)-ATPase, anti-AT1 and AT2 or anti-anti-beta-actin). The detection was performed using ECL system and Hyperfilm. MTT assays showed a statistically significant reduction in cellular mitochondrial activity (p

Public-private partnerships in the provision of homeopathic services in the city of Delhi, India

Homeopathy is one among the popular medical systems in India. Over the years, the government has been attempting to mainstream homeopathy in the public health system, nevertheless, most service providers are in the private sector. Therefore, increase of quality and availability to all population classes by means of public-private partnerships is seen as a viable policy option. In Delhi, 90% of homeopathic services providers belong to the private sector, including charity trusts. Most of them provide services to the low-income population in urban slams. In 2003, Delhi government launched a program involving the private sector to provide homeopathic services in underserved city areas. This project funded private agencies to run homeopathic clinics. This paper provides an overview on this program, addressing in particular the lessons taught by six case studies represented by non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It also discusses expectations of private providers and concludes with specific recommendations for wider participation of the private sector.

Malaria treatment compared for homeopathic medicines and Coartem in homeopathic clinics in Kenya – A multicentre, pragmatic, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, ongoing trial

Malaria still has in Kenya a high mortality and morbidity rate; this is coupled with rising resistance levels to the new standard drug Coartem in several South Asian countries, according to WHO reports. Homeopathy can be considered a form of individualized immune therapy and as such it deserves a place next to treatments focused at the microorganisms themselves. These factors require scientific evidence that may support its application in endemic diseases. We have developed a research line that comprises both qualitative and quantitative aspects of homeopathic management of malaria patients. The first two studies have been conducted in 2014, the third in 2015.
 Aims: The assessment of homeopathically treated patients in several rural health care settings. This involves treatment of malaria in homeopathic clinics where comorbidity is also treated. The documentation of individualized homeopathy within homeopathic clinics, not an isolated study in a context where homeopathy usually not is applied. 
 Material and Methods: 
 1. In a retrospective design in one clinic, the 2013-2014 rain season, a group of 54 malaria patients were assessed for classical malaria symptoms, homeopathic case taking, laboratory tests and prescription strategies. 
 2. The prospective study in three clinics assessed the 2014 March – June rain season patients for the effect of homeopathic individual treatment. 86 patients were assessed and 69 completed follow up. All but one who returned for follow-up were negative for parasites. A drop-out analysis was made, indicating logistics as the main cause. 
 3. In 2015 a comparative study is being conducted between the effectiveness of homeopathy and the standard treatment of Coartem. Dependent variables are parasite conversion and quality of life. Both homeopathic and government clinic patients are participating; until now 50 cases from both groups have been confirmed negative for malaria parasites. 
 4. Pooled results from the three studies shall be analyzed using principal component analysis, for correlation of patterns of affected organs and prescribed remedies.

EVIDENCE - BASED HOMEOPATHY:CASE REPORT OF DIABETIC FOOT ULCER

Diabetes is a globally affected metabolic disease.Diabetic foot ulcer is a frequent complication seen in diabetic patients due to neuropathy and vascular diseases, this is a condition where a structured management,self care& monitoring is necessary to reduce the risk of mortality & morbidity of disease. As per our homoeopathic science, we treat the whole person & not only the disease. We aimed at identifying the disease & treating the disease with the Similimum Constitutionalremedy.People with uncontrolled diabetes are more likely to be affected with the skin disorders and ulcer formation, it occurs due to improper circulation,pressure,trauma and high blood sugar. It increases risk of gangrene, leading to amputation and permanent disability.For this Multidisciplinary Management is necessary to avoid this complication. Background andObjectives:Assessment of diabetic ulcer on the basis of clinical background and totality, with significant improvement and complete cure , and its evidence of pictures of healing observed in the diabetic ulcer.This wasa case of 49 years old male who presented with a history of Diabetic ulcer on left leg malleolus , he is a known case of Insulin dependent type II Diabetes Mellitus .The case presented here is documented from Health Care Homeopathic Clinic,Katraj, Pune Maharashtra, India.Patient was treated with individualized Homeopathic medicine over a period of 6 months , and there was significant improvement with complete healing of ulcer. Methodology:Homeopathic medicine was indicated, based on totality of symptoms and assessed with photographs.

Homeopathic Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: An Open, Single-Arm, Non-Comparative Study

Abstract Background Acne is often treated at homeopathic clinics in India based on existing literature without using any measurable parameters and the outcomes are seldom reported, hence this study. Objective To evaluate the effects of homeopathy on the treatment of acne using specific outcome measures related to severity and disability. Methods It is an open, single-arm, non-comparative study undertaken at a clinic located in rural India using individualised homeopathy. Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) scores and Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI) scores were analysed at baseline and post medication at 3 and 6 months using one-way repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 19 to assess the outcomes of intervention. Results Eighty-four patients enrolled in the study were analysed under modified intention to treat approach. Nat-m (n = 14), Calc-s (n = 14), Sulph (n = 13), Kali-br (n = 10) and Hep-s (n = 9) were the most frequently used remedies. Significant differences were found in the severity of the disease and quality of life (QoL) from baseline to 6 months in terms of GAGS (mean difference, 15.47; standard error [SE], 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 13.79–17.16; p < 0.001) and CADI (mean difference, 6.94; SE, 0.33; 95% CI, 6.12–7.75; p < 0.001) scores. A one–way repeated measures ANOVA was calculated and significant effects were found for GAGS scores (Wilks's lambda = 0.142; F [2, 82] = 248.50; p < 0.001; effect size = 0.748) and CADI scores (Wilks's lambda = 0.159; F [2, 82] = 217; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.786) at baseline and 3 and 6 months post medication. There was a positive correlation between the GAGS and CADI: r = 0.585, n = 84, p < 0.001. Conclusions Acne can be effectively treated at homeopathic clinics along with improvement in QoL of patients. Increase in severity of acne was associated with worsening of QoL. Further pragmatic studies with comparative cohort is desirable.

Investigating the sociodemographic profile and health-related outcomes of chronically ill homeopathic patients: results from an observational multi-centered study in Bulgaria

BackgroundThe Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) field in Europe has been a focus of research developments and public health policy changes for years. However, these processes are still in their infancy phase in Bulgaria. In this paper, homeopathy is the investigated CAM-modality at a Bulgarian context. The aim is threefold: 1) to outline the sociodemographic profile of the chronically ill adult patients (≥18 years old) who choose homeopathic medical treatment (HMT); 2) To identify the patients’ sources and needs of information about homeopathy, and the reasons to use HMT; and 3) to measure health-related outcomes in patients who have visited homeopathic clinics to look for HMT of their chronic conditions.MethodsA cross-sectional observational multi-centered study (≥18 years old, n = 211) was conducted between June 2016 to Dec. 2017 in Bulgaria. Potentially eligible participants for the study were all chronically ill patients who had been receiving HMT for a year or more and had visited the homeopathic clinics for a follow up within the study period. The EQ-5D-3L instrument was applied with an additional questionnaire on sociodemographic and health related data.Results, discussion and conclusionsThe study results outlined the country specific sociodemographic profile of the chronically ill homeopathic patients in Bulgaria: they are predominantly female, with higher education and at the age groups between 30 and 50.The EQ-5D-3L version, was applied to measure patients’ health-related quality of life and to promote the use of a standardized generic instrument as a complementary and reliable scientific tool to assess the patient-reported outcomes of the homeopathic patients. Regarding the reasons of choice: the participants choose HMT because it is safe and mild, to avoid excessive antibiotic use, because the conventional treatment was not successful, etc. The study confirms the social demand for more scientific information about homeopathy. Participants stated that the medical universities’ curriculum should keep pace with the modern CAM-developments. A key message is that the future of the successful chronic disease management is in the integration of the conventional and CAM-modalities and these processes should be facilitated through public health regulations, education and research. The presented study is a supportive action in this direction.

Homeopathy and Complementary Integrative Medicine, Dietary and Lifestyle Advices to Reduce Adverse-Effects of Anti-Cancer Therapy: A Cohort Study with Breast Cancer Patients

Background. To face adverse-effects of anti-cancer treatment, the Homeopathic Clinic of Lucca, in collaboration with the Oncology Department, has set up an Integrative Oncology Outpatient Unit in the Public Hospital Campo di Marte, Aim. To present the results of complementary medicine (CM) treatment targeted towards reducing the adverse effects of anti-cancer therapy and cancer symptoms and improving the quality of life of breast cancer patients. Methods. This is a retrospective observational study conducted on 204 breast cancer patients (all females except 1 male) were consecutively visited from September 2013 to December 2017, mean age 54.8 (35-88) years. Almost all patients were referred by their medical oncologists. The intensity of symptoms was evaluated according to a grading system from G0 (absence of symptoms) to G1 (slight), G2 (moderate), and G3 (strong), as evaluated by the patient in conjunction with the doctor during the course of the visits. The severity of radiodermatitis was evaluated with the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) scale. Homeopathy was the main prescribed therapy, either exclusive (47.5%) or integrated with other complementary medicines (41.7%), mainly botanicals and acupuncture. The Banerji protocol was applied in 3.4% of patients. Results. The most frequently treated symptoms were the adverse-effects of anti-cancer therapies (84.3%): endocrine therapy (36.3%), chemotherapy (33.3%), radiotherapy (9.8%) and surgery (4.9%). The symptoms caused by cancer disease were 25.5%, and comorbidity 21.6%. Comparison of the clinical conditions before and after treatment allowed to observe a significant amelioration of the following symptoms: hot flashes (p < 0.01); nausea (p < 0.01); fatigue (p < 0.01); anxiety (p < 0.05); depression (p < 0.01); insomnia (p < 0.01); mucositis (p < 0.01); joint pain (p < 0.01) . Conclusions. A clinic of integrative oncology is an opportunity to reduce adverse-effects of anti-cancer therapy and to ameliorate cancer patients’ quality of life.

Integration of Homeopathy and Complementary Medicine in the Tuscan Public Health System and the Experience of the Homeopathic Clinic of the Lucca Hospital.

The healthcare programs of the Region of Tuscany (Italy) have started the process of integration of some types of complementary medicine (CM), including homeopathy, which began in 1996. The Homeopathic Clinic of Lucca was opened in 1998, followed by the Homeopathic Clinic for Women in 2003, and the Clinic for CM and Diet in Oncology in 2013. Observational longitudinal studies conducted on 5,877 patients (3,937 in the general clinic, 1,606 in the women's clinic and 334 in oncology) were consecutively examined from 2003 to 2016. The Outcome in Relation to Impact on Daily Living (ORIDL) was generally used to assess outcomes. Comparing the clinical conditions before and after homeopathic treatment, improvement was observed in 88.8% of general medicine patients with follow-up (45.1%); in particular, 68.1% of the patients had a major improvement in or resolution (ORIDL +2, +3, +4) of their condition. In women, an improvement was obtained in 74.1% cases and a major improvement in 61.2%. In cancer patients with homeopathic and integrative treatment, a significant improvement was observed for all the symptoms during anti-cancer therapy, particularly for hot flashes, nausea, depression, asthenia, and anxiety. These results suggest that homeopathy can effectively be integrated with allopathic medicine and that the Tuscan experience could provide a useful reference for developing national and European regulations on the use of CM and homeopathy in public healthcare.

A Cross-Sectional Study to Assess the Symptomatic Relief among BPH Patients Attending Homeopathic Clinic in Indore City

A Cross-Sectional Study to Assess the Symptomatic Relief among BPH Patients Attending Homeopathic Clinic in Indore City

The experience, over thirty-three years, in a homeopathic clinic in a large public hospital

The experience, over thirty-three years, in a homeopathic clinic in a large public hospital

Equalization thyroid gland – outcome assessment

The homeopathic clinic of the Municipal Public Servant Hospital of São Paulo (HSPM – Brazil) has among patient records some cases of thyroid gland diseases (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), which were treated whith the systemic homeopathic method of Carillo. This study evaluates patients with diseases of thyroid gland, analyzing improvements using a Iodium-like equalizer, adjacent to the systemic medication.

Clinical risk management in Complementary Medicine: Use of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) in homeopathic and acupuncture public clinics

Clinical risk management in Complementary Medicine: Use of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) in homeopathic and acupuncture public clinics

Comparative Materia Medica: Integrating New and Old Remedies

The author of this massive work, Richard Pitt (1958–), wrote two other noteworthy items, Tobacco: An Exploration of Its Nature through the Prisma of Homeopathy (2006) and The Natural Medicine Guide for Travel and Home (2013). Pitt was originally a British citizen, lived in the United States for many years, and now divides his time between Africa, Europe and the United States. He has been very active in the creation and administration of the Council for Homeopathic Certification (CHC) and has also given of his clinical skills in Africa where he has conducted charity homeopathic clinics.

An Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Patient Treated With Homeopathy: A Case Report

Introduction: Homeopathy can be applied to treat various diseases and conditions such as cancer, allergy, mood disorders, headache and pain. This case showed that homeopathic medicine can be a treatment modality for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), an autoimmune-mediated hematologic disorder. Case Presentation: The patient was a 5.5–year-old child with ITP who referred to the homeopathic clinic with extensive petechiae and purpura on her body. Her platelet count was 15000/mcL and her anti-dsDNA and ANA were negative on her first visit. Her disease had first been diagnosed at the age of 2.5 years. She had undergone routine therapy for ITP; however, despite 15 months of corticosteroid therapy and IVIG injections, her platelet count was still low. After treatment with homeopathic remedies, her platelet count increased and signs of ITP disappeared. Conclusion: Homeopathic remedies can be considered as complementary and alternative medicines for ITP treatment protocols.

Homeopathic therapy in pediatric atopic diseases: short- and long-term results

To study the outcomes of atopic diseases in children treated with homeopathy at the Homeopathic Clinic of Lucca (Italy) and related long-term results after approximately an 8-year period. Our data derive from an observational longitudinal study carried out on 857 pediatric patients who consecutive visited from 1998 to 2014. Children with atopic diseases were 325 (37.9%), 126 (39%) suffered from atopic dermatitis, 72 (22%) from allergic rhinitis, and 127 (39%) from asthma. Moreover, a long-term study was conducted on a subset of 107/165 patients, consecutively visited from 1998 to 2006, and with ≥5 years follow-up. The study also investigated the evolution of overall symptoms in those patients with a complex atopic symptomatology. 75.8% of atopic children had moderate or major improvement (67.1% with asthma as the primary disease; 84.2% rhinitis; 84.2% dermatitis). At re-evaluation after 5-10 years, complete remission of atopic symptoms was obtained in 70.1% of the children: 84.2% in dermatitis; 48.1% in allergic rhinitis; 71.4% in asthma. Children with two or three atopic diseases at the first visit were completely cured in 40% of cases. The results seem to confirm that homeopathic medicine produces positive therapeutic response in atopic children.

Women and complementary medicine: Eleven years of experience at a homeopathic clinic for women in a public hospital

IntroductionIn 2003, the Homeopathic Clinic for Women at Campo di Marte Hospital (now Cittadella della salute) was opened in Lucca, Italy. Over an 11-year period women mostly with gynaecological diseases were followed up. This paper explores the socio-demographic caracteristics, main complaints, most commonly used integrative therapies, and the clinical results of women presenting over this period. MethodsAn observational, longitudinal study was conducted on 1388 women consecutively examined from 2003 to 2013. The ORIDL (Outcome in Relation to Impact on Daily Living) was used to assess outcome. All patients were treated with individualized homeopathic treatment (single remedy), without excluding other integrative treatments when necessary. ResultsPatients mean age was 42 years, most were office workers (23.9%); 33.4% had already used conventional therapies and 38% homeopathic remedies. The most frequently observed gynaecological diseases for 750 of the cases (54%) were: menopausal disorders (21.6%) and menstrual irregularities (11.9%), and among non gynaecological diseases, psychological disorders (12.9%). A homeopathic prescription was followed by herbal therapy for 42.2% of the patients with menopausal disturbances; 402 (53.6%) women with gynaecological problems, received follow-up and 38.1% were women with menopausal disorders. An improvement was obtained in 298 (74.1%) patients; major improvement or resolution (ORIDL=+2, +3, +4) was seen in 246 (61.2%) women, 89 (66.9%) of these with menopausal disorders. ConclusionHomeopathic treatment was sometimes integrated with diet, botanicals, and psychological counselling and support in psychopathological conditions and demonstrated positive therapeutic effects, particularly for women with menopausal disorders.

Contemporary Homeopathy in Sweden

This article gives a short history of homeopathy in Sweden and provides information about practising homeopaths today and where in Sweden they can be found. The types of patients and the reason why they choose to go to a homeopath are reviewed. The starting of the first homeopathic emergency clinic is important and finally, a case of loss of hair.

The homeopathic choice for children: a qualitative research on the decision making process of the families

To explore the experiences of parents who chose homeopathic treatment for their children, with particular regard to the decision-making process within the family and the availability of conventional and homeopathic healthcare services. Semi-structured interview with parents immediately after or before the homeopathic visit at the Homeopathic Clinic of Campo di Marte Hospital of Lucca (Italy) from1st March, 2012 to 18 July 2012. Answers were analyzed by frequency of response and grouped into main areas: 1. Choice of homeopathy. 2. Intra-family dynamics. 3. Behaviour in emergency situations. 4. The relationship with the homeopathic doctor. 5. The role of friends and acquaintances. 6. The 'cut off' of use of homeopathy. Parents who choose homeopathic treatments for their children are strongly influenced by context. The choice of homeopathy is usually made by mothers and is rarely hindered by fathers, grandparents or friends, whose approval is important and encourages parents to use homeopathy for their children, both for prevention and treatment. Easy access to the homeopathic doctor was frequently requested, especially for acute situations. This research confirms the importance of context in decision making processes. Other characteristics of families which use homeopathy, such as level of education, personal coping strategies and family context should be investigated.