The role of alternative medicine in rhinology. Roehm CE, Tessema B, Brown SM. Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030, USA. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. 2012 Feb;20(1):73-81.

Abstract: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) includes treatments from traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy, naturopathy, herbal medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, mind-body medicine, chiropractic or osteopathic manipulations, and massage. More than 40% of patients in the United States use CAM, with 17% of CAM use related to otolaryngology diagnoses, but nearly half of CAM users do not communicate their use of these medications to their physicians. Perioperative risk of bleeding is a particular concern in surgical specialties, and knowledge of these therapies and their potential adverse effects is critical.

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Management of distress during climacteric years by homeopathic therapy. Nayak C, Singh V, Singh K, Singh H, Gupta J, Lamba CD, Sharma A, Sharma B, Indira B, Bhuvaneshwari S, Bindra SK, Luxmi KS. 1 Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) , New Delhi, India. J Altern Complement Med. 2011 Nov;17(11):1037-42.

Abstract

Abstract Objectives: The purpose of this study was to ascertain the usefulness of homeopathic therapy in the management of distressing symptoms encountered during climacteric years in women (primary objective) and also the changes brought about in the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and lipid profile in these women after homeopathic treatment (secondary objective).

Materials and methods: An open, multicenter, prospective, observational study was carried out to ascertain the usefulness of homeopathic treatment in distress during climacteric years (DDCY). Patients were enrolled from the general outpatient department of the six Institutes/Units of Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) and were required to complete a follow-up period of 1 year as per the protocol designed by the CCRH. A uniform questionnaire assessing 15 predefined symptoms of menopause was adopted, with assessment of each symptom at every visit. Levels of serum FSH and lipid profile were monitored at entry and at completion. Effect size of the study was also calculated. CARA Software was used for repertorization of the presenting symptoms of menopause along with the characteristic attributes of each patient to arrive at a simillimum. The selected medicine was prescribed in a single dose as per the homeopathic principles. The assessment of the results was made through statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon signed rank test on Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) comparing symptom score at entry and completion of 1 year of treatment and t test for analyzing improvement in laboratory findings.

Results: Homeopathic therapy was found to be useful in relieving menopausal distressing symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety, palpitation, depression, insomnia, and so on. Influence on serum levels of FSH, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein was not significant but serum levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and very-low-density lipoprotein decreased significantly. Effect size of the study was found to be large. The medicines found to be most frequently indicated and useful were Sepia, Lachesis, Calcarea carb., Lycopodium, and Sulphur.

Conclusions: This study proves the usefulness of homeopathic medicines in relieving DDCY.

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With Thanks to The Homeopathy Research Institute 19.11.11:

Effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness of homeopathy in general practice. Forsch Komplementärmed 2006;13(Supplement 21:19-2); DOI: 10.1159/00009358. Bornhöft G, Wolf U, von Ammon K, Righetti M, Maxion-Bergemann S, Baumgartner S, Thurneysen A, Matthiessen PF: The English translation of the Swiss Health Technology Assessment (HTA) report on Homeopathy will be published in the UK on 30th November 2011. We are glad to bring you a taster of the contents of this exciting report. ‘Homöopathie in der Krankenversorgung. Wirksamkeit, Nutzen, Sicherheit und Wirtschaftlichkeit.’ English Title announced as: ‘Homeopathy in Healthcare: Effectiveness, Appropriateness, Safety, Costs.’ by Gudrun Bornhöft and Peter F. Matthiessen (Editors).

The 2006 HTA report on homeopathy was commissioned by the Federal Social Insurance Office (*FSIO) within the context of an overall evaluation of Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAMs). It was written by a team of German speaking academics and edited by G Bornhöft & F Matthiessen of Witten/Herdecke University in Germany.

Interestingly, the HTA methodology, unlike meta-analyses and systematic reports such as the Cochrane Collaboration, does not just ask the question of effectiveness of a particular intervention, it also addresses the questions of effectiveness of a therapy in everyday use (i.e. real world effectiveness), how it is used, its safety and its cost-effectiveness.

This report, amounting to 300-plus pages, exhaustively reviews the scientific literature in homeopathy. It summarises 22 reviews, 20 of which show positive results for homeopathy. Four of these showed strong evidence that homeopathy, as a system of medicine, is efficacious. It also finds strong supporting evidence for the homeopathic treatment of allergies and upper-respiratory tract infections.

Shang et al comparative meta-analysis which appeared in The Lancet in 2005 and was heralded by The Lancet’s editor as “The end of homeopathy” was, according to Bornhöft & Matthiessen, commissioned by the FSIO as a part of this same assessment of CAMs. It was originally meant to investigate the quality of homeopathy trials compared to those of conventional medicine. In the HTA report the authors analyse the Shang et al 2005 study, stating that, “Although we cannot conclude from the previous remarks [about the Shang et al 2005 study] the opposite conclusion – that homeopathy is effective – we can say with certainty that the Shang et al 2005 study does not prove that homeopathy has no effect.” The report also presents the results of the quality assessment of homeopathy trials, concluding that “studies of homeopathy and phytotherapy were of better quality than comparable conventional medicine studies”.

The Bornhöft & Matthiessen HTA report ends with this statement: “In conclusion we have established that there is sufficient supporting evidence for the pre-clinical (experimental) as well as clinical effects of homeopathy, and that in absolute terms, as well as when compared to conventional therapies, it offers a safe and cost-effective treatment.”

With the publication of the English translation of the HTA report, we hope that the debate will finally move from the question, ‘Does homeopathy work?’ to the more pressing questions of ‘How does homeopathy work?’ and ‘What conditions can homeopathy treat effectively and cost-efficiently?’

*The Federal Social Insurance Office (FSIO) is the Swiss National Centre of expertise on policies related to old-age, invalidity and the family. It plans, manages and monitors the corresponding social insurance systems to ensure that they function effectively. The FSIO also initiates and coordinates reciprocal social security agreements with other countries.

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http://avilian.co.uk/2010/06/re-analysis-of-shang-et-al-meta-analysis/

http://avilian.co.uk/2009/09/luc-montagnier-foundation-proves-homeopathy-works/

Clinical resolution of nasal aspergillosis following therapy with a homeopathic remedy in a dog. Epstein S, Hardy R. Wilmington Animal Hospital, Wilmington, DE.J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2011 Nov;47(6):e110-5.

Abstract: A 6 yr old, male, neutered Weimaraner was treated homeopathically for nasal aspergillosis after failing to respond to two treatments of topical (intranasal) clotrimazole and oral amoxicillin trihydrate/clavulanate potassium. Computed tomography, rhinoscopy, fungal culture, and cytology previously confirmed the diagnosis.

At presentation for homeopathic treatment, the dog had aggressive left-sided sinusitis and rhinitis with destruction of nasal turbinates and severe bouts of epistaxis. Erosion and depigmentation of the nasal planum were evident.

After two treatments with homeopathic aurum metallicum, resolution of clinical signs occurred and clearance of the aspergillosis organisms was documented by computed tomographic scan, rhinoscopy, and histopathology. Homeopathic aurum metallicum may be beneficial in treating cases of canine nasal aspergillosis.

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Homeopathic Potentization Based on Nanoscale Domains. Czerlinski G, Ypma T. 1 Department of Biology, Western Washington University , Bellingham, WA. J Altern Complement Med. 2011 Nov 10.

Abstract Objectives: The objectives of this study were to present a simple descriptive and quantitative model of how high potencies in homeopathy arise.

Design: The model begins with the mechanochemical production of hydrogen and hydroxyl radicals from water and the electronic stabilization of the resulting nanodomains of water molecules. The life of these domains is initially limited to a few days, but may extend to years when the electromagnetic characteristic of a homeopathic agent is copied onto the domains. This information is transferred between the original agent and the nanodomains, and also between previously imprinted nanodomains and new ones. The differential equations previously used to describe these processes are replaced here by exponential expressions, corresponding to simplified model mechanisms. Magnetic stabilization is also involved, since these long-lived domains apparently require the presence of the geomagnetic field. Our model incorporates this factor in the formation of the long-lived compound.

Results: Numerical simulation and graphs show that the potentization mechanism can be described quantitatively by a very simplified mechanism. The omitted factors affect only the fine structure of the kinetics. Measurements of pH changes upon absorption of different electromagnetic frequencies indicate that about 400 nanodomains polymerize to form one cooperating unit. Singlet excited states of some compounds lead to dramatic changes in their hydrogen ion dissociation constant, explaining this pH effect and suggesting that homeopathic information is imprinted as higher singlet excited states.

Conclusions: A simple description is provided of the process of potentization in homeopathic dilutions. With the exception of minor details, this simple model replicates the results previously obtained from a more complex model. While excited states are short lived in isolated molecules, they become long lived in nanodomains that form coherent cooperative aggregates controlled by the geomagnetic field. These domains either slowly emit biophotons or perform specific biochemical work at their target.

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Developments on drug discovery and on new therapeutics: highly diluted tinctures act as biological response modifiers. Carolina C de Oliveira , Ana Paula R Abud , Simone M de Oliveira , Fernando DE SF Guimaraes , Lucas F de Andrade , Raffaello P di Bernardi , Ediely L DE O Coletto , Diogo Kuczera , Eneida J da Lozzo , Jenifer P Goncalves , Edvaldo DA S Trindade and Dorly DE F Buchi. Laboratório de Estudos de Células Inflamatórias e Neoplásicas, Departamento de Biologia Celular, SCB, Centro Politecnico, Universidade Federal do Paraná – Curitiba, PR – Brazil CEP 81531-980. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2011, 26 October 2011. 11:101doi:10.1186/1472-6882-11-101

Abstract (provisional): Background: In the search for new therapies novel drugs and medications are being discovered, developed and tested in laboratories. Highly diluted substances are intended to enhance immune system responses resulting in reduced frequency of various diseases, and often present no risk of serious side-effects due to its low toxicity. Over the past years our research group has been investigating the action of highly diluted substances and tinctures on cells from the immune system.

Methods: We have developed and tested several highly diluted tinctures and here we describe the biological activity of M1, M2, and M8 both in vitro in immune cells from mice and human, and in vivo in mice. Cytotoxicity, cytokines released and NF-kappaB activation were determined after in vitro treatment. Cell viability, oxidative response, lipid peroxidation, bone marrow and lymph node cells immunophenotyping were accessed after mice in vivo treatment.

Results: None of the highly diluted tinctures tested were cytotoxic to macrophages or K562. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages treated with all highly diluted tinctures decreased tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) release and M1, and M8 decreased IFN-gamma production. M1 has decreased NF-kappaB activity on TNF-alpha stimulated reporter cell line. In vivo treatment lead to a decrease in reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO) production was increased by M1, and M8, and lipid peroxidation was induced by M1, and M2. All compounds enhanced the innate immunity, but M1 also augmented acquired immunity and M2 diminished B lymphocytes, responsible to acquired immunity.

Conclusions: Based on the results presented here, these highly diluted tinctures were shown to modulate immune responses. Even though further investigation is needed there is an indication that these highly diluted tinctures could be used as therapeutic interventions in disorders where the immune system is compromised.

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Circadian aspects of hyperthermia in mice induced by Aconitum napellus. de la Peña SS, Sothern RB, López FS, Lujambio IM, Waizel-Bucay J, Sánchez CO, Monroy CP, Betancourt ET. Chronomics Research Center at Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación (SEPI)-Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía (ENMyH), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN). Pharmacogn Mag. 2011 Jul;7(27):234-42.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Aconitum napellus (Acn) is used topically to relieve pain, itching and inflammation, and internally to reduce febrile states, among others. Any circadian time-related consequences of Acn administration are unknown. The objective of this study was to explore the effects of two doses of Acn on body temperature (BT) of mice treated at six different times over 24 hours.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: BALB/c female mice were housed in six chambers (six mice each) with air temperature 24 ± 3°C, humidity 60 ± 4%, and a 12-hours light (L)/12-hours dark cycle, but with L-onset staggered by 4 hours between chambers so that study at one external test time resulted in six test times (02, 06, 10, 14, 18 and 22 hours [h] after light onset). Rectal temperature (RT; in °C) was measured at baseline (B) and 1 hour after oral treatment with placebo (P) or two doses of Acn (6C and 30C, two studies each) in six studies over an 8 day span. The difference in RT for each mouse from the respective B + P timepoint mean RT was computed following each Acn treatment, and data from each of the six studies (original RT and difference from B + P) were analyzed for time-effect by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and for circadian rhythm by 24-hour cosine fitting.

RESULTS: A CIRCADIAN RHYTHM IN RT WAS FOUND AT B AND AFTER P (MEAN: 35.58°C vs. 35.69°C; peak: 15:31 h vs. 15:40 h) and after each Acn dose (30C or 6C). Acn induced hyperthermia and the overall change in BT was rhythmically significant for each dose (mean = +1.95°C vs. +1.70°C), with greatest hyperthermia observed during the L-span for each dose (peak = 08:56 h vs. 05:17 h).

CONCLUSION: Acn administered around the clock induced hyperthermia overall and in a time-dependent manner, with greatest effects during the resting (L) span. Thus, time of day may significantly impact the outcome of Acn and other homeopathic treatments and should be considered in determining optimal dosing and treatment time(s) in order to increase the desired outcome and decrease undesired effects.

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Effect of Traumeel S on Cytokine Profile in a Cecal Ligation and Puncture (CLP) Sepsis Model in Rats. Oberbaum M, Spira RM, Lukasiewicz E, Armon Y, Samuels N, Singer SR, Barak V, Izbicki G, Einav S, Hersch M. 1 The Center for Integrative Complementary Medicine, Shaare Zedek Medical Center , Jerusalem, Israel. J Altern Complement Med. 2011 Oct 6. [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract: Abstract Background: Sepsis results in significant morbidity and mortality, with current treatment options limited with respect to efficacy as well as safety. The complex homeopathic remedy Traumeel S has been shown to have both anti-inflammatory and immunostimulatory effects in the in vitro setting.

Objectives: The objective was to explore the effects of Traumeel S in an in vivo setting, using a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) sepsis model in rats, evaluating the effects of the medication on cytokine activity.

Design: Sepsis was induced in 30 rats using accepted CLP methodology. Following the procedure, rats were randomly allocated to receive an intraperitoneal injection of either Traumeel S (n=15) or normal saline (n=15). At 6 hours post-CLP, serum cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-6, and IL-10) were evaluated.

Results: IL-1β levels were significantly higher in the treatment group (p=0.03) with no significant differences found between the groups with respect to the other cytokines tested.

Conclusions: In contrast to in vitro studies, Traumeel significantly increased IL-1β levels in an in vivo model, without influencing other cytokines. IL-1β is a proinflammatory cytokine that has been shown to have a protective effect in the CLP rat model. Further research is warranted to examine this finding, as well as its clinical implications.

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Short-term effects of repeated olfactory administration of homeopathic Sulphur or Pulsatilla on electroencephalographic alpha power in healthy young adults. Bell IR, Brooks AJ, Howerter A, Jackson N, Schwartz GE. Department of Family & Community Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Department of Psychiatry, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Department of Psychology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Department of Medicine (Integrative Medicine), The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA. Homeopathy. 2011 Oct;100(4):203-11.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Homeopathic pathogenetic trials usually rely on symptom self report measures. Adding objective biomarkers could enhance detection of subtle initial remedy effects. The present feasibility study examined electroencephalographic (EEG) effects of repeated olfactory administration of two polycrest remedies.

METHODS: College student volunteers (ages 18-30, both sexes) from an introductory psychology course were screened for good health and relatively elevated Sulphur or Pulsatilla symptom scores on the Homeopathic Constitutional Type Questionnaire (CTQ). Subjects underwent a series of 3 once-weekly double-blind sessions during which they repeatedly sniffed the remedy matched to their CTQ type and solvent controls. Each remedy was given in a 6c, 12c, and 30c potency, one potency per week, in randomly assigned order. Solvent controls included both plain distilled water and a water-ethanol (95%) solution. All sniff test solutions were further diluted just prior to laboratory sessions (0.5 ml test solution in 150 ml distilled water). Within a session, remedies and control solvents were administered via 2-s sniffs (8 sniffs of each of 4 different succussion levels for the potency in randomized order). Primary outcome variable was relative EEG power (alpha 1 8-10 Hz; alpha 2 10-12 Hz) averaged over 19 electrode sites, including all succussions for a given potency.

RESULTS: Mixed-effect models revealed significant main effects for remedy type (Sulphur >Pulsatilla) in both alpha bands, controlling for gender, baseline resting EEG alpha, and solvent control responses. Additional analyses showed significant nonlinear interactions between dilution and time (weekly session) in alpha 2 for both remedies and alpha 1 for Sulphur.

CONCLUSION: EEG alpha offers an objective biomarker of remedy effects for future studies and potential method for distinguishing time-dependent effects of specific remedies and remedy potencies from one another.

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Ultra High Dilution of triiodothyronine modifies cellular apoptosis in Rana catesbeiana tadpole tail in vitro. Guedes JR, Carrasco S, Ferreira CM, Bonamin LV, Souza W, Goldenstein-Schainberg C, Parra ER, Capelozzi VL. Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, SP, Brazil. Homeopathy. 2011 Oct;100(4):220-7.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Ultra High Dilutions (UHD) are diluted beyond the Avogadro limit with dynamization (dilution with succussion). The process of anuran amphibian metamorphosis is controlled by thyroid hormones, including the resorption of the tadpole tail.

METHODS: A randomized and blinded study was performed to investigate the influence of triiodothyronine (T3) 5·10(-24)M (10cH) on apoptosis induced by T3 100nM in Rana catesbeiana tadpoles’ tail tips, in vitro. Explants were randomized to three groups: control: no T3 in pharmacological or UHD dose; test: T3 100nM and challenged with T3 10cH (UHD); positive control: T3 100nM, treated with unsuccussed ethanol. The apoptotic index and the area of explants of test and control groups at the first and final day of the experiment were compared by t-test.

RESULTS: There was no difference in tail tip area between test and control groups, but a significantly higher (p<0.01) index of apoptosis in explants of the test group.

CONCLUSION: This data suggest that T3 10cH modifies the effect of T3 at pharmacological dose, opening new perspectives for further studies and investigation of the dose-effect curve.

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