Alternative and Complementary Medicine Commons^™

Development And Validation Of Susceptibility Assessment Tool In Homoeopathy (Sath) In Homoeopathic Clinical Practice, Divya Taneja, Anil Khurana, Kumar Dhawale, Renu Mittal, Padmalaya Rath, Abhijit Chakma, P. Dastagiri, Pritha Mehra, Hima Bindu Ponnam, Sunil Bhalinge, Rahul Suryavanshi, Sudha Dharmarajan, Parthasarathi Chakraborty, Pooja Kumari, Priyanka Nim, Subhash Kaushik

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: The homoeopathic philosophy identifies susceptibility as a key concept for prescribing a similimum, i.e., the indicated remedy and its potency. No validated instrument to measure susceptibility as high, medium or low could be identified in the literature. Objective: The present study was undertaken to identify the factors governing susceptibility assessment and to develop a simple tool for physicians to assess the susceptibility of the cases they see in their clinical practice. Material and Methods: A new questionnaire was developed using standardised procedures including item development, pilot testing, and psychometric evaluation. The psychometric properties of this pilot tool were assessed …

Evaluation Of Oral Administration Of Calendula Officinalis Among The Centesimal Potencies In Acute Wound Healing In Male Wistar Rats, A Vincer George, Ramadas Naik, Punchappady Devasya Rekha, Melita Alva, Vivek Ramakrishnan, Suprith Surya, Ranajit Das

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Calendula officinalis (Calendula) is used in Homoeopathy to treat various wounds. The presence of bioactive compounds results in pharmacological properties like wound healing, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, clinicians use different centesimal potencies (6C, 30C, 200C) to heal wounds. Objective: To compare the wound-healing potential of Calendula dilutions (6C, 30C, 200C) through oral administration in a pre-clinical acute wound model. Materials and Methods: The study involved administering Calendula centesimal potencies (6C, 30C, 200C) orally. Male wistar rats aged eight to ten weeks were involved in the experiment. Every animal had full-thickness excisional wound created on its back …

A Case Report On Multiple Renal Calculi And Bilateral Ovarian Cysts Treated With Homoeopathic Medicine Ignatia Amara, Pragya Sharma

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Renal calculi are the most frequent urological illness. It can be caused by genetic, nutritional, or environmental factors. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled structures which can be simple or complex. It can affect females of any age, whether during puberty or menopause. These disorders remain a medical challenge due to their complex aetiology and high incidence. Sometimes the symptoms grow so severe for the patient that treatment and time lost from work involve substantial costs, compromising their social, physical, psychological, and financial well-being. Case summary: This is a case report of a 38-year-old female having sharp cutting pain in lumbar …

Indian Standard Of Plastic Containers And Closures For Dispensing Homoeopathic Pharmaceutical Preparations, Homoeopathy Sectional Committee, Ayush Department, Bureau Of Indian Standards, New Delhi, India

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Homoeopathic medicines require safe packaging to maintain their quality and effectiveness. Proper packaging prevents contamination, preserves potency, and ensures patient safety. Hence, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) had received the proposal from the Ministry of Ayush for the development of BIS standards for packaging material used for homoeopathic medicinal products (HMP). One such packaging is plastic containers. Accordingly, IS 19084: 2024 was developed and notified, which specifies requirements for plastic containers and closures used for packaging, storage, and dispensing of homoeopathic pharmaceutical preparations in solid and liquid dosage forms. This paper reports the details of the standard and the methodology …

Principles And Practice Of Homoeopathy Part Ii: Advancing Frontiers–A Book Review, Surbhi Jain

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Book Review on ‘Principles and Practice of Homoeopathy Part II: Advancing Frontiers’

Lm Potency Of Calcarea Carbonica For Individualised Homoeopathic Treatment Of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case Report, Rayba Khatoon, Sumanta Kamila, Sanjay Sarkar, Javed Aquatar Bappa

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) stands as a prevalent and diverse endocrine disorder affecting women in their reproductive years. It manifests through various clinical symptoms such as oligo-anovulation, polycystic ovaries, and symptoms due to elevated serum androgen levels. Amidst the frequent side effects and limited long-term efficacy of conventional treatments, there is a growing interest in complementary therapies that can alleviate PCOS symptoms without adverse impacts. Homoeopathy, known for its individualised approach and success in treating various conditions, including PCOS, emerges as a hopeful solution. This case report aims to showcase the favourable results attained through individualised homoeopathic treatment not …

Retrocerebellar Arachnoid Cyst Treated By Individualised Homoeopathic Medicine Calcarea Phosphorica: A Case Report, Abhishek Soni, Syed Afsar Ali, Aiswarya Singha

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Arachnoid cysts are non-malignant malformations mainly relating to the arachnoid mater. Arachnoid cysts involving the posterior fossa are less common and are most often found in the cerebellopontine angle. Common presenting complaints include headache, visual disturbances, gait disturbances, and seizures.

Case Summary: This is a case of a 4-year-old male child with a retrocerebellar arachnoid cyst treated in the outpatient department of the National Institute of Homoeopathy, Kolkata, India. The presenting complaints included trembling of the whole body since one year, which was completely resolved within 18 months of individualised homoeopathic treatment. The case was thoroughly analysed and treated …

Homoeopathy In Integrative Management Of Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction: An Evidence-Based Case Report, Mehadi Arif Billah, Rajib Purkait, Gurudev Choubey, Pralay Sharma

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is the central measure of left ventricular systolic function. It is one of the most useful tools to evaluate cardiac diseases. Heart failure with a reduced ejection fraction affects more than 50% of individuals. This subject is inadequately documented in Homoeopathy. This case study intends to create evidence-based documentation and generate the hypothesis that Homoeopathy can treat these potentially fatal illnesses. Case Summary: A 33-year-old female presented with complaints of palpitation, dyspnoea on least exertion and pain in both upper and lower limbs with associated numbness extending downwards for three months. She had a …

Usefulness Of Homoeopathic Medicine Lachesis Mutus In Treating Cervical Dystonia: A Case Report, Kamlesh P. Kakde, Vinaya Ganesan Iyer

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Cervical dystonia is a neurological disorder characterised by painful, involuntary muscular spasms affecting the neck and head. It is commonly of idiopathic origin and associated with a poor prognosis. Conventional management typically includes botulinum toxin administration or surgical interventions, which provide only partial relief and are often accompanied by symptom recurrence. Emerging evidence suggests that individualised homoeopathic treatment may offer superior efficacy in such cases. Case Summary: A 40-year-old male came to the clinic with pre-diagnosed condition of cervical dystonia for four years. Complete Repertory was utilised for remedy analysis and confirmation, which led to the prescription of …

Therapeutic Response Of Homoeopathic Medicines In Management Of Nicotine Dependence And Withdrawal: A Case Series, Ralte Lalmuanpuia, Kathika Chattopadhyay, Ashwini Nair, Anuroopam Swami, Daisy Katarmal

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: On discontinuing or decreasing nicotine use, nicotine-dependent individuals, often smokers, may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, frustration, anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, restlessness and insomnia. These symptoms can significantly impact their quality of life, affecting physical health, psychological state, social relationships, personal beliefs and daily activities. The most commonly recommended conventional treatment for nicotine withdrawal is nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), which aims to reduce cravings and ease symptoms. However, NRT can be habit-forming and has been associated with a variety of adverse effects.

Cases Summary: We report four cases of nicotine dependence managed solely with homoeopathic interventions …

Primary Infertility In A Female Due To Ovarian Endometrioma Managed With Homoeopathic Medicine Pulsatilla – A Case Report, R. Bhuvaneswari, R.S. Thendral, Nilina P. Ravindran, Sakthivel Vaiyapuri

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Infertility is defined as the failure to achieve a natural pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. There are various factors influencing fertility in females, such as ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, pelvic adhesions, tubal blockage, other tubal/uterine abnormalities and hyperprolactinemia, among which endometriosis is the second most common cause of female infertility. Endometriomas are cystic lesions that stem from endometriosis. This case report explores the usefulness of individualised homoeopathic treatment in addressing primary infertility associated with ovarian endometrioma.

Case Summary: A 27-year-old woman with a history of laparoscopic cystectomy and three unsuccessful intrauterine insemination attempts sought …

Adjunctive Homoeopathic Treatment Of Covid-19-Positive Cases Of Geriatric Age Group – A Case Series, Vinitha Edavattath Ramanan, Suhana P. Azis, K.C. Muraleedharan, Divya Babu

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: The second wave of COVID-19 peaked during May 2021 and had a higher mortality and morbidity rates than the first wave. About 53% of people over 60 years of age died in India due to the pandemic by the end of July 2021. Cases Summary: Twenty reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction-confirmed COVID-19-positive patients belonging to the geriatric age group were successfully treated with Homoeopathy. Seventeen of these consulted through in-person visits at a long-term care facility (LTCF) for the elderly, and three cases belonged to the home-isolated category. Out of those treated, 14 had comorbidities, such as type II …

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Treated With Staphysagria In Lm Potency: An Evidence-Based Case Report, Karunakara Moorthi, K.R. Siva Tharshini

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous condition characterised by the enlargement of the prostate gland in men. When the prostate enlarges, it can press against the urethra and cause various urinary symptoms.

Case Summary: A 50-year-old man complained of unsatisfactory micturition, feeble urine flow, difficulty in initiating urine, dribbling at the end of urine and anxiety regarding his future and sensitivity to others’ opinions. The patient was diagnosed with BPH based on clinical presentation and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). After case taking, Staphysagria in LM potency was prescribed based on symptom presentation. Individualised homoeopathic medicine was …

Individualised Homoeopathic Treatment Of Paranoid Schizophrenia With Potentised Phosphorus – A Case Report, R. Bhuvaneswari, Vaiyapuri Sakthivel

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Paranoid schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that affects approximately one percent of the world population, with devastating consequences for affected individuals and their families. Homoeopathy could be an effective alternative mode of treatment and can minimise the consequences of it. This case report aimed to highlight the significance of using only individualised homoeopathic medicines in the treatment of paranoid schizophrenia without conventional medicine. Case Summary: A 30-year-old male complained of someone controlling his mind, someone talking about him. He was suspicious of the food he was served, talked and laughed to himself and slept insufficiently. The case …

Management Of Generalised Anxiety Disorder With Homoeopathic Medicine Calcarea Carbonica In Lm Potency: A Case Report, Punam Kumari, Tushita Thakur

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common mental health disorder that interferes with daily activities and the quality of life of people.

Case summary: A 38-year-old female patient presented with symptoms of anxiety along with marked fear of some impending misfortune, decreased socialisation and difficulty in managing her day-to-day work and family responsibilities for one year and six months. She was diagnosed with a case of generalised anxiety disorder as per the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision classification of psychiatric disorders. A detailed case taking and repertorisation was done as per homoeopathic principles. The patient was prescribed individualised …

Urinary Bladder And Bilateral Renal Calculi Expelled Through The Homoeopathic Medicine Nux Vomica – A Case Report, Prajakta M. Udmale, Vaishali R. Khobragade

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Urolithiasis is one of the most common urological problems that one comes across in a general outpatient clinic. The usefulness of homoeopathic medicines in the expulsion of urinary calculus is well-reported. However, this case is unique due to an advanced case of urolithiasis, where complications had begun to appear, as also the expulsion of all calculi using the homoeopathic medicines. Case Summary: A 34-year-old male patient was diagnosed with a large, mobile urinary bladder calculus and small bilateral renal calculi, with hydronephrosis, hydroureter, and mild oedema at ureterovesical (U-V) junction. He presented with recurrent episodes of mild to moderate …

Segmental Vitiligo Treated By Homoeopathic Constitutional Medicine Tuberculinum: An Evidence-Based Case Report, Shubham Grover, Ashwini Nair

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Vitiligo is characterised by a patchy loss of skin pigmentation, which most commonly occurs due to the immune system targeting melanocytes in the epidermis. A few studies have shown the effectiveness of Homoeopathy in halting the progression and replacing the hypo-pigmented patches with normal-pigmented skin. Case Summary: A 15-year-old boy came to the clinic complaining of white patches that appeared suddenly on various parts of his body within one week. Tuberculinum proved to be the constitutional medicine in this case. The photographic evidence taken at regular intervals and a follow-up of over nine months showed the potential of constitutional …

Management Of Leiomyoma And Ovarian Cyst With Homoeopathic Medicine Thuja Occidentalis: An Evidence-Based Case Report, Bharti Wadhwa, Sujata Madhukar, Shweta Singh Kureel

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Leiomyoma (Uterine Fibroid [UF]) is the most prevalent benign solid tumour arising from the neoplastic transformation of smooth muscle cells of myometrium in the reproductive age of females. Fibroids are rare before puberty, increase in prevalence during the reproductive years, and usually reduce in size after menopause.

Case Summary: A 34-year-old woman presented with a complaint of hypogastric pain, and heavy bleeding during her menstrual periods since 3–4 months. Her menstrual cycle was irregular. She was diagnosed with an intramural UF and a right ovarian cyst on ultrasonography. Thuja occidentalis (in different potencies) was prescribed based on …

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, …

Homoeopathy In The Treatment Of Tinea Cruris And Tinea Corporis – A Case Series, Renu Mittal, Akshaya Kumar Prusty, Ashish Shivadikar, Divya Taneja, Noopur Kumari, Subhash Kaushik

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Dermatophytosis is a fungal infection affecting keratinised tissues such as the epidermis, hairs and nails. It is particularly prevalent in tropical regions due to favourable conditions for fungal growth, such as warmth and humidity. Dermatophytes metabolise keratin leading to various pathological clinical presentations, such as tinea pedis, tinea corporis and tinea cruris. Case reports, case series and studies published on treatment of tinea corporis add to the evidence-based effectiveness of Homoeopathy in treatment of the condition.

Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of individualised homoeopathic medicines in the clinical management of cases presented …

Lateral Venous Ulcer Treated With Homoeopathy Using A Miasmatic Approach – A Case Report, Karunakara Moorthi, Reshma P

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Loss of all or a portion of the dermis, as well as the epidermis, causes an open sore known as an ulcer. Venous leg ulcers are late signs of venous hypertension and chronic venous insufficiency. Long-term ulcers are difficult to heal and lastly opted for skin grafting and surgery conventionally. This case report provides insight into the treatment of venous ulcer with homoeopathy using the miasmatic approach and helps to provide evidence for further research in this area.

Case Summary: A 61-year-old female presented with ulceration near the lateral malleolus of her left leg for the past 6 years. …

Acknowledgement To Our Reviewers (2024), Ijrh Editorial Board

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

The following experts are sincerely acknowledged for their invaluable inputs, while reviewing the manuscripts for the Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy in 2024. Their timely inputs enabled a fair and rigorous peer-review process, and we are immensely thankful for the same.

Role Of Homoeopathic Medicine In The Management Of Psoriasis – An Evidence-Based Case Report, Priya Bablesh Chaurasiya, Priya Gauri A. Chaphekar, Sailee V. Ingale

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Psoriasis is a common chronic, recurrent, immune-mediated disease, where plaque-type psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis show 90 % and 7% prevalence, respectively. It is a cosmetically expressed condition that impacts the individual and the family, thus affecting quality of life. It impacts the physical, emotional and psychosocial well-being of the sick individual. It accounts for up to 3% of the World’s population. Although this condition is not life-threatening, it is challenging to treat due to the lack of established causative factors. Conventional medicine offers long-term treatment with a short-term benefit to patients with psoriasis, resulting in discontinued treatment by the …

An In Vitro Comparative Assessment Of Antidiabetic Efficacy: Abroma Augusta Q, Gymnema Sylvestre Q, Cephalandra Indica Q, Momordica Charantia Q, Syzygium Jambolanum Q In Comparison To Metformin, Mary Adharshna S.P., Vettrivel Arul

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Homoeopathic mother tinctures are gaining attention for managing diabetes by inhibiting key enzymes in glucose metabolism.

Objective: This study aimed to compare popular homoeopathic mother tinctures Abroma augusta Q (AAQ), Cephalandra indica Q (CIQ), Gymnema sylvestre Q (GSQ), Momordica charantia Q (MCQ) and Syzygium jambolanum Q (SJQ) with Metformin (MET) in inhibiting diabetes associated α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes.

Methods: Mother tinctures AAQ, CIQ, GSQ, MCQ, SJQ and MET of concentrations 10 μL/mL, 50 μL/mL, 100 μL/mL, 250 μL/mL, and 500 μL/mL were assessed through α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory assay.

Results: All mother tinctures show significant inhibitory action at …

Efficacy Of Ferrum Metallicum 30c In Restoring Menstrual Cycle In Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Patients – A Randomised, Placebo-Controlled, Single-Blind Trial, J.P. Jerin, Chaturbhuja Nayak, D. Karthikeyan, Maanasa Rajagopal

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, with the prevalent clinical symptom of irregular menstruation.

Objective: This trial assessed the efficacy of Ferr. met. 30C in restoring the menstrual cycle among PCOS patients.

Methods: A randomised, placebo-controlled, single-blind trial was conducted at outpatient departments of Sri Sai Ram Homoeopathy Medical College and Research Centre, Chennai. Patients were randomly allotted to the experimental (Group I - Ferr. met. 30C) and control (Group II - Placebo) groups. Quality of life of patients in both groups was assessed through PCOS Questionnaire scale …

Doctors’ Day Celebration And Integration Of Homoeopathy With Mainstream Healthcare, Subhash Kaushik

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

National Doctors' Day is observed in India on July 1st to commemorate the birth and death anniversary of Bharat Ratna Awardee, Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, a distinguished physician, freedom fighter, and former Chief Minister of West Bengal, India . This year’s theme for National Doctors' Day was, "Healing Hands, Caring Hearts," highlights the commitment, compassion, and empathy that doctors bring to their practice, underscoring their vital role in saving and enhancing lives. Practised for over a century in India, Homoeopathy has long been known for its role in enhancing the lives of people, in terms of gentle, holistic healing and …

Homoeopathy In Bipolar Affective Disorder: A Review Of Research Evidence, Deepthi Gilla, K.P. Deepak, Sreeja Kr Nair, K.C. Muraleedharan

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) is an episodic, chronic psychiatric disorder characterized by fluctuations in mood state and energy. It affects more than 1% of the world’s population. BPAD causes cognitive and functional impairment and raised mortality, particularly death by suicide. At present, although alternative therapies are not the first-line treatment of mood disorders, there is emerging evidence showing that such treatments are effective. Objective: The objective of this review is to synthesize existing research evidence and literature to determine the usefulness of homoeopathic medicines in the management of manic and depressive episodes of BPAD. Materials and Methods: Two authors …

A Pragmatic, Open-Label Study To Evaluate The Response Of Homoeopathic Treatment In Vitiligo, Divya Taneja, Renu Mittal, R. Bhuvaneswari, Akshaya Kumar Prusty, P. S. Chakraborty, Bharti Wadhwa, Lipipushpa Debata, Ashish P. Shivadikar, Nidhi Mahajan, Vaishali Shinde, Uttam Singh, Siva Prasad Goli, Renu Bala, Pooja Kumari, Anil Khurana, Raj Kumar Manchanda

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Homoeopathy is commonly used by patients suffering from vitiligo. The treatment response needs to be assessed on standardised scales in pragmatic settings. Objective: The study aimed to evaluate response to homoeopathic treatment in vitiligo severity and quality of life using the vitiligo area scoring index (VASI) score, Vitiligo European Task Force (VETF) score and dermatological life quality index (DLQI) score. Materials and Methods: This study was undertaken in dermatology outpatient departments at 11 research institutes of the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy. Participants, in the age group 18–60 years, any gender, presenting with at least one vitiligo skin …

Ichthyosis Vulgaris Successfully Treated With Individualised Homoeopathic Medicine Dulcamara 200c – An Evidence-Based Case Report, Lalith Singh, Raja Manoharan, Sukanya Mitra, Rajib Purkait

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Ichthyosis vulgaris (IV) is a hereditary condition that often manifests in infancy but can also exist from birth. It is a recalcitrant disorder relapses often and even shows the least response to various therapeutic options. Extensive literature review have revealed a dearth of appropriate evidence-based documentation on treatment of ichthyosis in Homoeopathy. Case Summary: This is a case of IV in a 20-year-old male, manifested as widespread scaling and itching since childhood. Following homoeopathic principles, Dulcamara 200C was prescribed. Outcome related to impact on daily living (ORIDL) scale was used to evaluate the patient-reported outcome measure subjectively, and the …

Utility Of Individualised Homoeopathic Medicines In Improving Social Interaction In Childhood Autism: A Prospective, Open-Label, Single Arm Study, Sreeja Kudukayil Radhakrishnan Nair, Deepthi Gilla, Mohan Narvelil Devasia

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Childhood autism is a pervasive developmental disorder. There has been an upsurge in its prevalence in past few decades. The social deficit is the most disabling symptom of autism. There is an immediate need to explore new interventions to effectively address childhood autism. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the usefulness of individualised homoeopathic medicine in improving social interaction in childhood autism. Materials and Methods: This one-year duration study was conducted in the outpatient department of the National Homoeopathy Research Institute in Mental Health, Kottayam, Kerala. Thirty-five children fulfilling the diagnostic criteria of childhood autism (as …