Alternative and Complementary Medicine Commons^™

Case Report: Herba Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) Toxicity With Severe Muscle Spasms And Elevated Creatine Kinase And Creatinine, Tucker A. Ledo, Dhara Patel, Wayne Tamaska, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Here we present the case of a 33-year-old male who presented to the emergency department (ED) with a complaint of severe muscle spasms of a ten-hour duration. He noted that he took a supplement which he purchased over the internet called Epimedium, also known as Horny Goat Weed, for the purpose of improving his mood and sense of energy and reducing his sense of anxiety. He noted that he started this supplement one month prior to ED presentation, coincident with the first episodes of muscle cramps. In the ED, he had elevations of his CK and creatinine and required hospital …

To Heal A Mind: A Comparison Of Functional And Conventional Treatments In Major Depressive Disorder, Gillian Chambers

Senior Honors Theses

Incidence of major depressive disorder is increasing year over year, with little able to be done to halt the spread of the condition. However, there are many treatment possibilities considered unconventional by the healthcare system. This thesis examines the respective benefits and risks, in comparison to one another, between conventional pharmacological treatment and functional, holistic treatment of depression. This was done via integrative review of available clinical literature, synthesizing evidence on both conventional and functional treatments for depression, as dictated by Whittemore and Knafl (2005). Exploratory search methods revealed 758 records fulfilling inclusion criteria, which were screened and narrowed down …

Functional Mocktails, Amber Barrer

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background and Aims: Mocktails are alcohol-free beverages that emulate alcohol-containing cocktails. Americans are increasingly seeking these non-alcoholic beverage alternatives. As mocktails have increased in popularity, so have anecdotal health claims. Research has shown that the consumption of teas, herbs, roots, and juices provide health benefits. However, these have not been studied as a mocktail beverage. Functional mocktails may provide various health benefits due to their antioxidant properties, serving as an enjoyable alternative to alcoholic beverages.

Methods: A recipe book of 20 functional mocktails were created. The recipe book includes referenced research on the health benefits, antioxidative properties, recommended dosing, and …

An Examination Of The Role Of Recreational Therapy In Forensic And Correctional Settings, Sarah R. Fischer

All Dissertations

The estimated prevalence of adults, age 18 and older, with serious mental illness (SMI) in the United States is approximately 6% (NIMH, 2022a). Having a mental illness places individuals at higher risk for arrest and incarceration (NAMI, n.d.b) where they receive treatment, including recreational therapy (RT) in state hospitals, jails or prisons. The purpose of this multi-method study was to gain a better understanding of the role of RT in treating adults with SMI in forensic and correctional settings. A non-standardized 122-item cross-sectional survey (n=49) was used to identify what interventions recreational therapists are using, for what intended outcomes; and …

Impact Of Water Quality On The Nutritional And Phytochemical Properties Of Culinary Herbs, Genesis Arroyo

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Water quality significantly affected food safety, especially since contaminated water impacted crop growth and the nutrient composition of foods. Nitrates occur naturally in vegetables. However, when introduced into the food supply through water contamination, excessive levels disrupted the natural physiological processes of vegetables and other agricultural plants. These excessive levels eventually led to nutrient imbalances, decreased phytochemical concentrations, and potential health risks such as the formation of carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds in humans. This study evaluated the effects of nitrates on the nutritional outcomes of food crops, focusing on commonly used culinary herbs. While synthesizing findings from relevant peer-reviewed articles, I …

Informed Practices And Resources For Facilitating Community-Based Writing Groups, Cassandra M. Normand

Journal of Creative Writing Studies

Community-based writing groups have been found to positively impact attendees’ well-being; however, little research examines informed practices that beginning group facilitators can utilize to facilitate groups. This study interviewed 23 professionals from across the U.S. and compiled main themes for effectively facilitating writing groups. The four themes are as follows: 1). Creating a brave, caring atmosphere is key, 2). Networking is critical, 3). There are individual, group, and organizational challenges, 4). Understanding the facilitator’s role is essential. Through an in-depth discussion of themes, the researcher encourages others to start their own writing groups in their communities.

Optimization Of Reaction Conditions For Synthesizing Kasa-Targeting Drug Candidates For Tuberculosis Treatment, Megan A. Baxter

Research and Creativity Symposium

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health challenge, with increasing drug resistance pressing for the development of novel treatments. KasA, a key enzyme in mycobacterial fatty acid biosynthesis, is a promising drug target for TB treatment. This research focuses on the design and synthesis of potential KasA inhibitors, specifically optimizing reaction conditions to efficiently produce 1-methyl-6-aminoindazole. This molecule is an intermediate in the synthesis of drugs targeting TB. Characterization of synthesized compounds is performed using NMR, mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography to confirm structure and purity. The first step involved optimizing the solvent and base for the methylation of nitroindazole. We …

Analysis Of Differentially Expressed Genes (Deg) And Upstream Regulator Proteins Indicates That Inhibition Of Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 (Tgfb1) Is A Potential Target For Acne Inversa, Weri Veranita, Siva Fauziah, Siti Nurbaya

Indonesian Journal of Medical Chemistry and Bioinformatics

Acne inversa (AI) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and scarring, primarily in intertriginous areas. This study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for managing acne inversa based on the analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEG). The expression targets of these genes were then validated for their potential as biomarkers, and upstream regulator proteins (URPs) were identified from the resulting DEG. DEG analysis on the GEO dataset GSE122592 (acne inversa vs. healthy donor skin) revealed five DEG that can serve as biomarkers for acne inversa, with a sensitivity and specificity of (100%). These DEG—IL10, GZMB, …

The Impact Of Diet On Preeclampsia: An Observational Study Of Nutritional Influence, Trinity G. Moye, Alyssa Cunningham

Department of Nutrition Student Projects

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific condition typically diagnosed after 20 weeks of gestation in women with no prior history of hypertension. Characterized by high blood pressure, proteinuria, thrombocytopenia, increased liver enzymes, and affecting the arteries carrying blood to the placenta, preeclampsia affects the health of both the mother and the fetus. Preeclampsia is disproportionately prevalent in certain populations, specifically among Black women, with various factors contributing to the higher susceptibility including socioeconomic status, education, and health distrust. These factors have been historically structured against Black women in American society. This study aims to reveal how dietary habits can play a role …

The Impact Of An Iron-Rich Diet On Fatigue In Menstruating Women With Non-Anemic Iron Deficiency, Meagan Seraydar, Lauren Latimer, Sam Miragliatto

Department of Nutrition Student Projects

Fatigue without diagnosed anemia is prevalent in menstruating women, with iron deficiency being a potential contributor. While iron supplementation is a standard intervention, dietary sources of iron may offer a sustainable alternative. This study aims to assess the impact of an iron-rich diet on fatigue levels in menstruating women. A 12-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted, assigning participants to either an iron-rich diet group or a control group following their usual diet without specific iron recommendations. Fatigue will be measured using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) at baseline, six weeks, and twelve weeks, alongside iron status biomarkers, including …

Taraxacum Officinale Effect On The Reduction Of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines Il-6 And Tnf-A, Bailee Bad Heart Bull, Kat Kraemer, Kira Mccallum, Ruth Teeple

Undergraduate Research Symposium 2025

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a ubiquitous plant found in every continent except Antarctica. Despite its condemnation as a weed, it has been used for centuries in traditional European, Indian, and Chinese herbal medicine for its purported digestive and diuretic properties. Its leaves contain antioxidants and bioactive compounds like taraxasterol, which have been reported to reduce reactive oxygen species production and inhibit nitric oxide production. There have been claims that taraxasterol can reduce inflammation by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines; a cytokine is a small protein released by immune cells that helps regulate inflammation, immune responses, and cell communication. Our …

Supporting Elementary Educators Through A Nervous System Regulation And Social-Emotional Learning Skills Workshop Intervention: An Musc Capstone Project, Lily Morgan

Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium

Teachers have a great influence on developing children’s emotional intelligence, regulatory capacity, and occupational engagement. These professionals also happen to report some of the highest rates of stress, mental health challenges (Agyapong, B. et al, 2022), and burnout (Xie, M., et al, 2022). Providing teachers with education and support on nervous system regulation, social-emotional learning skills, and related topics can improve their ability to manage job stress, enhance modeling and interactions with students, and improve their quality of life. This project aimed to enhance knowledge, provide access to resources, and serve to support elementary educators at an inner-city school in …

Supporting Maternal Mental Health In The Postpartum Period With The Use Of Home Resource Kit, Nicole Craig

Theses and Graduate Projects

Postpartum mental health disorders, including postpartum depression and anxiety, can affect a significant proportion of new mothers for centuries. This paper explores the development, implementation, and evaluation of an at-home mental health resource kit designed to support maternal mental health while navigating the stresses of new motherhood. Utilizing Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring as a theoretical framework, the study assesses the effectiveness of integrative therapies such as aromatherapy, mindful meditation, and educational resources in managing postpartum stress. Data collected through pre- and post-surveys and roundtable discussions provide insights into the benefits and limitations of these interventions. The findings indicate …

Food For Thought: The Impact Of The Gut-Brain Axis On Mental Health, Emily S. Miiller

Honors Thesis

Research regarding the role of the human microbiome has grown over the years as professionals develop a better understanding of the gut-brain axis. New studies and expanding knowledge on the relationship between the nervous system and gut microbiome promote a deeper understanding of the impact of diet on mental health. Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy balance between the gut and the brain. Incorporating nutritional modulators, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and vitamins, is crucial for supporting the gut-brain axis by influencing neurotransmitter production, managing inflammation, and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. On the other hand, …

Let's Grow: Investigating The Relationship Between Houseplants And Mental Health In College Students, Makia G. Adler

Honors Thesis

This literature review explores the potential mental health benefits of houseplants for college students, a population increasingly affected by anxiety and depression. With traditional mental health services strained and often inaccessible, simple and low-cost alternatives are urgently needed. This review examines whether the presence and interaction with houseplants can improve psychological well-being, specifically symptoms of anxiety and depression. Drawing from ten peer-reviewed studies, this review finds a generally positive association between houseplants and mental health, though results vary. Notably, the duration of exposure appears to have little effect, while setting and autonomy in plant interaction are more influential. Interactions in …

Using Musical Interventions As A Non-Pharmacological Strategy To Improve Chronic Pain Levels And Satisfaction Among Patients With Sickle Cell Disease, Fredeline Metellus

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract

Background

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a chronic, inherited blood disorder characterized by severe pain episodes that are often poorly managed with standard pharmacological treatments. In response to patient dissatisfaction with pain control and the desire for holistic alternatives, this quality improvement project explored music therapy as a non-pharmacological pain management strategy.

Purpose

The primary aim was to reduce chronic pain by at least 20% and improve patient satisfaction with pain management among adults with SCD using a structured musical intervention.

Methodology

This project was implemented at a comprehensive outpatient SCD clinic using the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model. Five adult patients …

Remedios De Abuela: Sacred Traditions Of Healing, Madeline R. Sardinas

be Still

Remedios de Abuela is a narrative-style essay reflecting on the Cuban remedies and family caregiving practices that shaped my journey into medicine. From the warmth of sopa de pollo to the soothing ritual of Vicks VapoRub, these traditions embody the sacred oath of healing.

Through personal stories, including caring for my grandfather with diabetes, this essay explores the intersection of family, culture, and the art of medicine. It is a tribute to my grandparents and a testament to the enduring power of traditions and the human connection at the heart of the healing profession.

Achieving Total Health Using Food To Heal: A Podcast On A Holistic Approach To Nutrition, Taylor Sharer

Senior Theses

Nutrition is the key to a healthy and happy life. In a world where chronic, avoidable diseases are the leading cause of death, it is necessary to educate the public on how they can improve their overall health and wellbeing using food. Every aspect of health is interconnected, and what we eat can create massive changes in our health. My project focuses on holistic nutrition, providing an easily accessible, science-based and informative discourse about how to reach health and wellness goals through a podcast. Using personalized experience combined with current research, I discuss topics such as whole foods, individualized nutrition, …

The Effect Of Grape Seed Extract Against The Formation Of S.Aureus Biofilms In A Clinical Setting, Srestha Samaddar

Senior Theses

The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, poses a serious threat to public health and clinical care. A major contributor to the persistence of these infections is the formation of bacterial biofilms, structured communities that protect S. aureus from antibiotics and immune responses, especially on surgical sites and medical devices. As conventional treatments become less effective, interest in alternative, natural antimicrobial agents has increased, due to public dissatisfaction with conventional medicine and a growing trust in complementary and alternative medicine. Grape seed extract (GSE), a polyphenol-rich byproduct of winemaking, has emerged as a promising candidate …

Efek Hipnoterapi Untuk Meningkatkan Kualitas Hidup Pada Pasien Penyakit Ginjal Kronik: Suatu Laporan Kasus Berbasis Bukti, Aisha Putri Chairani, Rudi Putranto, Hamzah Shatri, Maruhum Bonar Hasiholan Marbun, Edward Faisal, Vinandia Irvianita, Diah Martina

Jurnal Penyakit Dalam Indonesia

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition of kidney damage with a decrease in glomerulus filtration rate of 60 ml/min/1.73 m3 for a duration of more than three months. CKD is closely related to the patient’s quality of life because the patient must carry out various lifestyle restrictions to slow the progression of kidney damage. Lifestyle restrictions often cause problems in the psychosocial field that increase the severity of symptoms and decrease kidney function faster. This evidence-based case review was compiled to determine the effectiveness of hypnotherapy in improving the quality of life of CKD patients. Literature searches were conducted …

Identification Of Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors In Single-Clove Black Garlic Using Metabolomics And Molecular Docking Approaches, Abdul Aziz Setiawan, Shirly Kumala, Dian Ratih Laksmitawati, Ari Yuniarto, Nancy Dewi Yuliana

Makara Journal of Science

Black garlic is produced through controlled fermentation under specific temperature and humidity conditions, during which the Maillard reaction enhances its sensory properties and bioactivity. The anti-hyperuricemic potential of single-clove black garlic (SBG) remains unexplored. This study combined Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–High Resolution Mass Spectrometry-based metabolomics and an in-silico approach to identify the potential xanthine oxidase inhibitors (XOI) in SBG. Methanolic extracts (10 ppm) exhibited xanthine oxidase inhibition ranging from 50.09% to 68.01%, which is comparable to allopurinol (78.74%) at the same concentration. Metabolomic profiling tentatively identified 45 compounds, and orthogonal partial least squares analysis revealed seven metabolites as strongly correlated …

Combating Compassion Fatigue Using Mindfulness Techniques, Christie Baker, Summer Cross

Student Scholarship & Creative Works

Demands placed on health care professionals have steadily increased and as a result, compassion fatigue has become an issue by adversely affecting the well-being of nurses and health care organizations. Compassion fatigue is a widely accepted phenomenon in nursing, creating an array of physical and emotional manifestations, impairing a health care provider’s ability to provide optimum quality care. The goal of this quality improvement project aimed to educate and provide emergency room nurses with a resource for self-care enhancement to subsequently decrease their risk of developing compassion fatigue. Nurses of a small, rural emergency department located in the southeastern region …

Application Of Quantum Entanglement To Explain The Healing Mechanism By Highly Diluted Homoeopathic Medicines, Bijay Krishna Chaudhuri, Biswadeep Chaudhuri

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: The healing mechanism of highly diluted homoeopathic medicines (DHM) is not yet very clear.

Objectives: Our objective is to apply the concepts of entropy, information, and quantum mechanical principle of entanglement to find a model for explaining the healing mechanism of DHM.

Methodology: All living or non-living things are composed of dynamic microscopic quantum particles (electrons, protons, ions, etc.) which follow the basic properties of quantum mechanics such as quantum entanglement, superposition of quantum states and coherent interaction among these particles. The continuous change of thermodynamic entropies of the dynamic living cells leads to information change for cellular communication …

Effect Of Individualised Homoeopathic Intervention In Dyslipidaemia: An Open-Label, Randomised, Controlled, Exploratory Trial, Roja Varanasi, Rupali Bhalerao, Raveendar Ch, Raju Kolli, Ravi Sardala, R.V.R. Prasad, Paul Sumithran, M. Prakash Rao, Ramesh Dubashi, Kiranmayee R.G.R, S. Rajeeva, V. Sarathy, P.A. Rajakumari, Priyanka Srivastava, Anupriya Chaudhary, Gnnana Prakasham, P. Prasad, Arvind Kumar, Viqar A. Siddiqui, Praveen Oberai, Raj K. Manchanda

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Dyslipidaemia, the derangement of one or many of the lipoproteins is a major cause of cardiovascular events, causing 2.6 million deaths per year globally.

Objectives: This study evaluated the efficacy of individualised homoeopathic medicines with lifestyle modification in the management of dyslipidaemia.

Materials and Methods: This multicentric, open-label, randomised controlled exploratory trial was conducted at seven study sites under the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy. Participants fulfilling the eligibility criteria were enrolled. The primary outcome was to evaluate changes in Low-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol at months 3 and 6. Secondary outcomes were to evaluate changes in total cholesterol, triglyceride, …

Role Of Homoeopathic Treatment For Symptom Management And Improving Quality Of Life In Severe Psoriatic Disease: A Case Report, Kapil Das, Gautam Pal

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) are the main phenotypes of psoriatic disease. PsA is a chronic inflammatory arthritis, associated with psoriasis that can cause joint damage and can severely impact a patient’s quality of life (QoL).

Case Summary: A 21-yearold male suffering from PsA for three years presented in the outpatient department. He was previously treated with different methods of treatment without much relief. Clinically along with psoriatic rash, patient reported swelling, pain and stiffness of joints, causing restriction of movement. In addition, patient also presented with ophthalmic and gastric complaints. After a thorough clinical evaluation, Phosphorus in increasing …

Management Of Epilepsy With Individualised Homoeopathic Medicine Lachesis In Millesimal Potency: An Evidence-Based Case Report, Jayashree Nanda, Sujata Choudhury

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Epilepsy can be defined as a seizure disorder due to a change in electric activity in the brain which comprises a variety of disorders due to underlying brain dysfunction which increases the pre-disposition for seizures. It is a serious public health problem that affects the normal activity and quality of life of an individual. Homoeopathic medicines are successfully used for the treatment of epilepsy. Hence, research is needed with documentation of well-defined case reports. Here we present a case of epilepsy which was cured by individualised homoeopathic medicine after repertorisation.

Case summary: A 52-year-old male presented with complaints of …

The Ethics Of Homoeopathy: Addressing The Role Of Patient Testimonials Versus Scientific Evidence, Parth Aphale, Himanshu Shekhar, Shashank Dokania

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Letter to the Editor

Book Review On ‘Chronic Miasms In Homoeopathy’, P. Dastagiri

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Book Review

Role Of Carcinosinum In Managing Separation Anxiety Disorder In Children: A Case Report, Karunakara Moorthi, Pranjali Srivastava

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is a condition causing excessive and distressing anxiety about separating from home or loved ones. It starts in childhood or adolescence and continues into adulthood. Symptoms include constant worry about losing a parent or other loved one to an illness or disaster, constant fear that something bad will happen, refusing to be away from home due to fear of separation, reluctance to sleep without a parent or a loved one nearby and repeated nightmares about separation.

Case Summary: A 7-year-old boy presented with symptoms of anxiety when going to school, weeping before going to school, …

Ijrh’S Journey: So Far And What Lies Ahead, Subhash Kaushik

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Editorial