Alternative and Complementary Medicine Commons^™

The Answer To Perimenstrual Distress Is Not Automatically Prescription: Review Of Allopathic And Integrative Approaches To Mental Health Care For Pms & Pmdd Symptoms, Grace Oja

University Honors Theses

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) affect a notable percentage of people who menstruate. PMS/PMDD have a wide range of symptoms that negatively impact mental well-being and quality of life. This review is the culmination of a database search to review current allopathic treatments for PMS/PMDD, which often include oral contraceptives and antidepressants, and explore evidence-based methods for integrative and alternative treatments to address some of the limitations of standard allopathic care, including limitations on which symptoms they address and side effects. This paper aims to examine how integrative medicine may expand existing treatments for PMS and PMDD …

Living Heritage, Resilience And Ethically Informed Infrastructures In Malawi, Martha B. Lerski, Frank Puluputu Mwale

Publications and Research

Rooted in a rural community’s needs, this paper explores how historically, and ethically informed infrastructures can support community engagement towards identification, documentation, and dissemination of local, traditional, and indigenous knowledge relating to climate change. The paper examines climate adaptation and sustainability issues through the lenses of community organizing and Library & Information Science best practices. It draws on a growing body of literature identifying a role for expanded epistemological and subject discipline perspectives. While the impacts of climate on material culture are increasingly recognized, intangible, and biocultural heritage have not received as much attention. Living heritage traditions and knowledge systems …

The Use Of Health And Herbal Products For Covid-19 Self-Prevention And Its Affecting Factors According To Theory Of Planned Behavior, Suppachai Insuk, Supanida Kittirattanasak, Mullika Sirithongkaset, Daranee Chiewchantanakit

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Introduction: Despite the World Health Organization’s recent declaration of the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, the lessons learned from the outbreak remain crucial for future public health responses. In Thailand, the pandemic’s impact led individuals to explore self-protection methods, including potentially ineffective health products. This study examined the prevalence of health and herbal products used for COVID-19 self-prevention, to identify the types of these products in use and to identify factors influencing their utilization.

Methods: A cross-sectional study surveyed 400 Thai participants aged 25–60 who had never contracted COVID-19. The study employed convenience sampling and self-administered online questionnaires based on …

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 …

Mixed Hearing Loss With Csom Managed With Individualised Homoeopathic Treatment: A Case Report, Prince Kumar

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Any stage of life might see the development of hearing loss (HL). One or both ears may be affected, and the onset may occur suddenly or gradually. Numerous factors, such as trauma, illness, genetic disorders, age, or prolonged exposure to noise, can cause HL. One or more auditory system areas may have pathological alterations as a result of the changes. The majority of adult HL is permanent or gradually progresses; however, some may be momentary or amenable to treatment with medication or surgery. Case Summary: A 17-year-old male adolescent was treated with homoeopathic medicine in an obstinate case of …

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 …

Immunoglobulin E Modulatory Effect Of Individualised Homoeopathy In A Child Suffering From Immunological, Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: A Case Report, Ranjit Sonny, Patranu Parui

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Urticaria is one of several immune-mediated diseases. It is very troublesome and hampers the quality of life significantly. Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is associated with red, oedematous, erythematous, raised and itchy wheals with or without angioedema. A serological marker such as immunoglobulin E (IgE) is raised in urticaria, which is one of the diagnostic criteria of urticaria. The successful treatment lies in the fact of controlling or immunomodulating the IgE level. As per available data, Homoeopathy is very effective for the management of urticaria by bringing down the serum IgE level within normal limits. Case Summary: A …

Role Of Bowel Nosode Bacillus Morgan In The Management Of Post-Infective Irritable Bowel Syndrome: An Evidence-Based Case Report, Priyagauri Ajey Chaphekar, Dharmendra Sharma

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder characterised by multifactorial causes and is classified according to Rome IV criteria into IBS-constipation, (IBS-diarrhoea prominently in post-infectious cases), and IBS-mixed symptoms. Psychological factors and certain foods fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols are known to aggravate the condition. The morbidity rate of IBS is a global concern as it negatively impacts the patient’s quality of life, leading to psychological distress, financial losses, and reduced work efficiency. Case Summary: This case report highlights a 69-year-old female patient who experienced a (acute) sudden onset of IBS symptoms, that is., an urgent need …

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 …

Research Highlights, Himani Garg, Gandham Kumuda

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Research Highlights

Documenting Our Success Stories: Merits Of Case Reporting In Homoeopathic Research And Practice, Subhash Kaushik

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Editorial

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 Individualised Homoeopathic Treatment In A Case Of Secondary Infertility With Uterine Fibroid Treated Through Psychosomatic Approach: A Case Report, Neha Swarup, Mahesh Gupta, Maneesh Mishra, Sanjay Gupta

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Infertility is the inability of a couple to conceive even after being sexually active for a period of one year. It is a fact that the inability to have one’s own child is a grave concern worldwide. Infertility is a globally prevalent condition, with 8–12% of the world population suffering from it. Infertility in females can be due to several causes, one of them is a uterine anomaly like uterine fibroid. Uterine fibroids are generally considered a structural pathology and mostly managed as a surgical condition. A vast literature review emphasises the importance of psychological factors which can lead …

Uterine Fibroid And Haemorrhagic Ovarian Cyst Treated With Homoeopathic Medicine Sepia Officinalis In Lm Potency: An Evidence-Based Case Report, Karunakara Moorthi, K. R. Siva Tharshini

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Uterine fibroids are the most common benign neoplasms of the female genital tract in reproductive-age women. The wide range of symptoms includes menorrhagia, metrorrhagia, continuous/post-menopausal bleeding, pain and pressure symptoms. The haemorrhagic ovarian cyst is an adnexal mass which resolves spontaneously by itself but requires surgery if it is more than 5 cm in size. Case Summary: A 46-year-old female patient came to the outpatient department with profuse uterine bleeding during menses lasting approximately 8–10 days and cutting pain in the lower abdomen extending to the back for two years. Magnetic resonance imaging studies showed a uterine fibroid along …

Improved Perceived Health Status Among Persons Practicing Yoga For Pain Management, Mary Kovoor

NYMC Student Theses and Dissertations

Purpose of the Study: The purpose of this research was to examine the relationship between yoga practice and perceived health status, and to evaluate the benefits of yoga as a pain management strategy for low-income individuals.

Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted and analyzed using 2022 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data. Logistic regression analyses examined whether the practice of yoga affected perceived health status, and whether low-income individuals were more likely to practice yoga for pain management.

Results: Analyses revealed that individuals who practiced yoga were 1.7 times more likely to report their health status positively than those …

Top Ten Types Of Childhood Cancer In Nineveh Governorate 2018–2022: A Time Series Analysis, Marab Younis Abdullah Al-Fathy, Ahmed Asaad Hussein, Hiba Farooq Mohamed Ameen, Maan Younis Al-Fathi

BioMed Visions Journal

Background: Childhood cancer incidence and deaths reflects the low health status, which can be prevented by setting upstrategies with help of different sectors in community.

Aim: To describe the childhood cancer in Nineveh governorate during 2018–2022.

Methods: A Biometry study used to review 646 a cancer registration form for five years 2018–2022, using Can-Rej 5 inquiryforms adopted by Ministry of Health measuring [sex ratio, sex and cause specific death rate, the incidence rate, the case fatalityrate, the proportion mortality rate and trend of (occurrences and death)].

Results: The total number of participants was 646, the commonest childhood cancer was among …

Personalized Pain Management Pathway Based On Individual Diagnoses, Tiana Bell Asn, Rn, Diana Desmornes Asn, Rn, Autumn Dwyer Bsn, Rn, Monica Foley Asn, Rn, Marissa Forleo Bsn, Rn, Heather Mcmillan Asn, Rn, Nicole Valenti Bsn, Rn

Posters

The intervention we’re proposing offers a comprehensive, individualized approach to pain management, taking into account diagnosis-specific pain scales, nonpharmacological interventions, and continued pain control post-discharge.

The Ethnobotany And Pharmacology Of Medicinal Plants For Caribbean Women’S Health, Ella Thomas Vardeman

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Approximately 55% of the world’s population lives in cities, and the United Nations estimates that this number will rise to 68% by 2050. Urban ethnobotany, the study of people’s traditional knowledge and use of plants in cities, is increasingly important as people adapt their cultural traditions to changing environments. In New York City (NYC), there have been several urban ethnobotany investigations in collaboration with Caribbean immigrant groups. However, there has yet to be an ethnobotanical survey that documents and botanically authenticates the medicinal plants used in the Haitian community. Previous collaborative research with women from the Caribbean in NYC has …

A Farewell Message, Misty L. Rhoads

Journal of Transformative Touch

No abstract provided.

Music As Medicine: The Impact Of Music On Pain Reported After Surgery, Anastasia Pike, Gregory T. Chesnut

Journal of Global Awareness

The impact of music on subjective reporting of pain and anxiety has been increasingly described in medical literature. Multimodal methods of alleviating postoperative pain and anxiety, including the use of live or recorded music in perioperative settings, have been shown to improve patient-reported pain levels and, in some studies, to result in decreased opioid usage. The overprescription of opioids after surgery can contribute to long-term abuse or trafficking of medications, and the use of non-opioid medications, alternative methods of pain relief, and environmental/auditory stimuli offer new mechanisms to promote safe opioid prescribing while improving both pain control and patient wellbeing. …

Integrating Positive Psychology And Spirituality To Foster Meaning And Well-Being In Older Adults, Crystal Morris

Adultspan Journal

This perspective article explores the integration of positive psychology interventions (PPIs) and spirituality in therapy to foster meaning and well-being in older adults. It highlights exercises such as the positive introduction, positive legacy, character strengths, mindfulness, mindful-based yoga, and a manifestation prayer journaling. The interventions presented are tools to support older adults that may experience depression, difficult life transitions, and the search for renewed meaning. Therapists who integrate PPIs and spirituality into therapy can promote a holistic, non-pathological approach to treatment.

The Lasting Legacy Of Dr. Fritz Smith And Dr. Aminah Raheem: Founders Of Zero Balancing And Soul Lightening/Insight Acupressure, Deanna Waggy Otr

Journal of Transformative Touch

Dr. Fritz Smith and Dr. Aminah Raheem were pioneers in the field of holistic bodywork. Their innovative techniques, Zero Balancing (ZB) and Insight Acupressure (formerly Soul Lightening International), helped shape integrative medicine practitioners around the globe. Their marriage not only symbolized a personal union but also a professional synergy, with their complementary therapies offering a yin-yang approach to mind-body healing. Their legacy continues through the many practitioners trained in Zero Balancing and Soul Lightening/Insight Acupressure and the various organizations that uphold their commitment to research, education, and professional standards.