Submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2017. / AIM The aim of this study was to determine whether a radionically prepared remedy would elicit symptomatology similar to the existing materia medica of the same remedy during a triple-blind proving. METHODOLOGY This homoeopathic proving of a radionically prepared remedy in 30C-equivalent (CR) potency was of a true experimental design, conducted in the form of a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Thirty proving participants (20 verum and 10 placebo) were selected according to defined inclusion criteria, and were closely monitored by the researcher throughout the proving to ensure prover compliance and wellbeing. Data was collected in the form of prover journals, in which provers recorded their symptoms experienced over the pre-proving observation period, the duration of the proving and the post-proving observation period. The proving symptomatology was collated into standard materia medica and repertory formats, following the CHROMA-Prove© method. Twenty keynote rubrics were selected according to criteria, which included symptoms ‘Grade 2’ or higher, PQRS (peculiar, queer, rare, strange) symptoms and general symptoms, and were subjected to repertorial analysis using RadarOpus software program (version 1.38). The nature of the proving substance was unblinded only after an estimation of the substance by repertorial overlap was made by the principal researcher, following which qualitative and quantitative comparisons of the proving materia medica and repertory were made against the existing materia medica of the same remedy accordingly. Results The proving of the radionically prepared remedy produced observable symptoms that resulted in a total of 332 materia medica entries, which translated into 563 rubrics distributed across 32 chapters. Five repertorial techniques were applied to the twenty rubrics selected and the researcher was able to correctly identify the radionically prepared proving substance, which was revealed to be Cantharis vesicatoria. Conclusion From the results of this study, it was evident that the proving of Cantharis vesicatoria 30CR produced symptomatology that was sufficiently characteristic to enable the researcher to correctly identify the remedy. The repertorial and materia medica comparisons to the existing materia medica of Cantharis vesicatoria, however, highlighted several similarities and differences that need to be explored further in order to bridge the observations and questions posed in this study. / M

A dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for the Master's Diploma in Technology: Homoeopathy at Technikon Natal, 1994. / The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of simillimum and allergen treatment to patients allergic to mixed grass pollens in terms of patients' responses to RAST and patients' percept ion of the effectiveness of treatment in order to identify key issues calling for the selection of the most effective method of treatment. / M

M.Tech. (Homeopathy) / The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth rate of germinating Zea mays seeds treated with homeopathically prepared Argentum nitricum in the potencies 3CH. 6CH and 9CH. The purpose was to prove that homeopathy does not work according to the "placebo effect" as suggested by some researchers. This was done by showing that homeopathic remedies have therapeutic effects on living plant matter, thereby giving credibility to homeopathy as a science. Another aspect of the study was to determine whether there is specificity in relation to selected remedy and dose. Six hundred Zea mays seeds were selected and planted in germination paper rolls. In each of the three test groups as well as the control group, there were ISO seeds each. The control group was treated with distilled water only, while the test groups were treated with varied potencies ofArgentum nitricum, which were prepared indistilled water. The germination rolls were incubated at 2SoC for a total of J3S hours. After 39 hours the germinating seeds were replanted onto fresh germination rolls. The process was repeated after a further 48 hours and thus at 87 hours the first measurement was taken and recorded. The final measurement was taken and recorded at J3S hours. Measurements comprised of the lengths of the mesocoleoptile and coleoptile ofthe Zea mays shoots. At 87 hours there was no significant difference between any of the groups. At J3S hours there were significant differences between the Argentum nitrlcum 3eH and the control, Argentum nitricum 3CH and Argentum nitricum 6CH, Argentum nitricum 3CH and Argentum nitricum 9CH. This study therefore showed that homeopathic Argentum nitricum had significant influence on the growth of germinating Zea mays seeds. The theory that homeopathy is merely due to "placebo effect" was disproved, and it was shown that there is definitely specificity with respect to homeopathic potencies.

M.Tech. / It is estimated that 59% of South African adult women and 29% of South African adult men are overweight (Department of Health, 2004). Significant risks arise from being overweight including: elevated cholesterol and the development of cardiovascular disease which increases with a greater gain in weight (Duyff, 2006). There is a lack of sufficient evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of many of the herbal weight-loss products currently available thus indicating that more research on herbal products and their efficacy in weight-loss is required (Lenz and Hamilton, 2004). The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of a herbal complex (Aloe ferox, Fucus vesiculosis, Taraxacum officinale and Trigonella foenum– graecum) as an aid in weight loss in females utilising comparative measurements of the participants’ weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), body fat percentage and circumferential measurements of their hips, waist, thighs, upper arms and abdomen. The study was a quantitative, double blind placebo controlled study. The study involved thirty overweight female participants (BMI 25.5 - 30 kg/m²) between the ages of twenty and thirty five. The participants were recruited by means of advertisement posters placed at the University of Johannesburg, Homoeopathy Health Centre. The participants were randomly divided into two groups of fifteen. One group received the herbal complex (Aloe ferox, Fucus vesiculosis, Taraxacum officinale and Trigonella foenum– graecum) and the other group received the placebo. Participants from both groups attended an initial interview where they were screened by means of a questionnaire and physical examination, including the measurement of their height and weight, calculation of their Body Mass Index (BMI) and body fat percentage, as well as the circumferential measurement of their hips, waist, thighs, upper arms and abdomen. Each participant was given a weekly diary and instructed to take fifteen drops of the issued medication three times daily, after meals for the duration of the full eight week study. Participants were examined, weighed, and the measurement of their body circumference and fat percentage were recorded every second week for the duration of the eight week study. Data from each participant was collected and analysed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). From statistical evaluation, it was determined that the herbal complex (Aloe ferox, Fucus vesiculosis, Taraxacum officinale and Trigonella foenum– graecum) was ineffective as an aid in weight loss in females.

Thesis (M.Tech.: Homoeopathy)-Dept. of Homoeopathy Durban University of Technology, 2007. 250 leaves / This research study was conducted to elucidate the total symptomatology that the plant Peucedanum galbanum in the thirtieth centesimal potency would produce on healthy individuals so that it may be prescribed according to the Law of Similiars. A further aim of the investigation was to compare this remedy to other remedies yielding the highest numerical values and total number of rubrics on repertorisation of the proving symptoms. Wagner (2007), in a concurrent study, analysed the proving results of Peucedanum galbanum in relation to the doctrine of signatures. It was hypothesised that Peucedanum galbanum 30CH would produce recognizable signs and symptoms in healthy provers, and that the comparative study of this remedy would highlight the differences and similarities between remedy symptoms and thus confusion as to indication is eliminated, plus a fuller understanding of the remedy and its relationship to other remedies is gained.

Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for a Master’s Degree in Technology: Homeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2007. / The aim of this study was to assess the perceptions of registered chiropractors towards homeopathy in South Africa. The aim was to establish the knowledge and perceptions of homeopathy and to facilitate greater understanding, co-operation and communication between chiropractors and homeopaths. A questionnaire as a measuring tool was used to carry out this study. The questionnaire was modified from Langworthy and Smink (2000), Maharajh (2005) and Tatalias (2006). A questionnaire was mailed to all chiropractors registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa currently practising in South Africa. The data for this study was derived from 170 (45%) questionnaires. The data obtained was analysed using the SPSS® for Windows™ and Excel® XP™ statistical package. Descriptive statistics using frequency tables and bar charts were used to study the data. Correlation analysis was performed using Pearson’s Chi Square Test, Phi coefficient, Kendall Tau coefficient and Cramer’s V coefficient to determine whether there was any significant association between the factors collected in the responses. Dendrograms were used to analyse questions that had more than one response. On analysing the results it was found that the majority of respondents were white (89.4%). The majority of respondents were between the ages of 25 and 35 and had been practicing for less than 5 years. The majority of chiropractors had a high level of knowledge of the status of homeopathic education in South Africa. 95.3% perceived that homeopathy is legally recognised in South Africa, 91% perceived that homeopathy has a scientific basis and 98% perceived that it is a legitimate form of medicine. The majority of respondents (87.1%) had consulted with a homeopath before and 12.9% of respondents had not. The majority of respondents perceived that homeopathy is suitable for use in conjunction with chiropractic treatment (95.3%). Communication and co-operation between homeopaths and chiropractors was considered to be moderate to good (68.2%). The majority of chiropractors had referred patients to homeopaths and most homeopaths had made referrals to chiropractors. Most chiropractors gave feedback on referred patients to a homeopath and said that they would like feedback on a referred patient. It can be concluded from the study that chiropractors perceive that homeopathy has a role to play in the health care system of South Africa.

Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for a Masters Degree in Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2009. / Introduction More and more people are becoming concerned about the effects of drugs, particularly in relation to children. There is an alternative in homoeopathy (Speight, 1983). Families need more options. Homoeopathy is a wonderful option because homoeopathic remedies are safe, cause no side effects or allergic reactions, and are inexpensive. They are easy to use because they taste good and above all, they are curative, not suppressive (Ullman, 1992). It was therefore necessary to determine the perception or perceptions towards homoeopathy as a treatment method and in terms of a primary health care option. The study population selected for this research is required to attend pre primary school in the Pinetown district. This district was chosen for the diversity in race, religion, and socio-economic factors, as well as the mixture of both rural and urban areas in this district. Purpose/Aim The purpose of this survey was to assess the perception, extent of knowledge and general understanding of as well as misconceptions about homoeopathy, including attitudes towards homoeopathy as a primary health care option in order to determine possible needs for homoeopathic services. The aim of this study is to develop and improve the knowledge and general understanding of homoeopathy and the perception towards the profession of homoeopathy amongst the general public by means of an information pamphlet (Appendix E). Methodology The research instrument used was a quantitative questionnaire (Appendix A), aimed at parents of children aged 3 to 7 years old in pre primary schools in the Pinetown district , as laid out by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education – map version 2 October 2007 (Appendix H and I) EduAction (2007). It was introduced to the principals of randomly selected (stratified random sampling method was used) pre primary schools (Appendix J) of the Pinetown district, and arrangements were made with those principals for distribution and collection of the completed questionnaires. The questionnaire was adapted from Moys, (1998) Small, (2005) Paruk, (2006) and Khoosal, (2007). Anonymity was maintained as no names, addresses or other information was required, thereby preventing identification of the respondents. The data accumulated was evaluated and analyzed statistically using the SPSS® version 15.0 for Windows™ and Excel® XP™. According to statistician Tonya Esterhuizen, a p-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Comparisons between demographics and areas were achieved using Pearson‟s chi-square tests. Descriptive analysis involved frequency tables showing counts and percentages of categorical variables. Bar or pie charts were used to show responses graphically. The profession can then use this information to decide what steps can be taken to rectify the misconceptions, improve general knowledge and attitudes towards homoeopathy; through education, media, community talks and the like. This information can also be used to plan for the necessary services required for the children (Khoosal, 2007). Results Of the 1400 questionnaires distributed, 508 questionnaires 36.3% from 13 different schools (Appendix J) were completed and considered evaluative. Not every question was answered on every questionnaire giving rise to some results that do not tally. Respondents answered questions on the extent of knowledge and general understanding (as well as misconceptions) regarding homoeopathy and it was found that more than half 56.1% had heard of homoeopathy. Of the sample, 22.7% had previously taken their child to a homoeopath for treatment, and the level of satisfaction with homeopathic treatment was 48.6%. According to the respondents 40.9% of children were in good health, while 33.9% was in excellent health and 24% in reasonable health. As anticipated a number of the respondents were unsure of the various roles of a homoeopath or did not know enough to comment. While 46% thought homoeopaths emphasize a healthy lifestyle, 45% thought that homoeopaths boost the immune system and 39% thought they prescribe plant extracts. Over half (51.2%) thought that homoeopathy had a valid scientific basis. And 32.4% agreed that homoeopathy takes longer to work than orthodox medicine although most (42.4%) were unsure about this question. On analyzing the attitudes towards homoeopathy as a primary health care option only 12.8% of respondents would contact a homoeopath if their child were ill. Most would contact a General Practitioner (GP) (61.3%). The majority (65.6%) thought homoeopathic treatment should be available in hospitals and clinics. While 40% saw homoeopathy as preventative medicine, 37.6% saw it as supportive and 35.7% as first choice treatment. On analyzing the conditions for which respondents would seek homoeopathic treatment, allergies ranked highest (43.5%) for which they would seek treatment, while hay fever was second (38.1%), followed by eczema (37.6%). The condition that was least agreed on was toothache (11.3%). A small percentage (3%), of respondents had a religious objection to seeking treatment from a homoeopath. Conclusion It can be concluded from the study that more than half of the public surveyed (56.1%) were aware of homoeopathy but levels of understanding and knowledge were lower than expected even where there had been partial experience with a practitioner. More detailed education on this modality of medicine is required in order to improve exposure to homoeopathy and to allow more informed decisions. It can also be concluded that a majority of respondents (65.6%) are in favour of homoeopathy having a place in primary health care. This study actually found that 65.6% of respondents felt that homoeopathy should be available in hospitals and clinic – this may not mean as a primary health service, but perhaps as an available alternative.

Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements of the Master's Degree in Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2010. / In collaboration with Lifeline, Durban University of Technology (DUT) established its first satellite homoeopathic community clinic; Ukuba Nesibindi Homoeopathic Clinic (UNHC). UNHC provides a free homoeopathic primary healthcare service on the third floor of the LifeLine building in Warwick junction, Durban, an area which is classified as being disadvantaged with high crime rates, prostitution, violence, small, informal business and low cost housing. The clinic is run by 4th and 5th year homoeopathic students under the supervision of a qualified homoeopathic practitioner and funded totally by the Department of Homoeopathy – DUT. The purpose of this retrospective clinical audit of UNHC was to determine a patient demographic and disease prevalence profile, as well as identify and describe the major medicines prescribed. Methodology The study used a retrospective, explanatory, and descriptive design method by means of a clinical audit, to determine a patient demographic and disease prevalence profile, as well as identify and describe the various homoeopathic treatment modalities. All the patient files from June 2004 – June 2008 were included for analysis and the data collection spreadsheet (Appendix D) was compiled respectively. IV The data collection form was divided into patient demographics, information on number of consultations and follow-ups, clinical diagnoses, urine dipstick analysis, patient referral information and medicines prescribed. The researcher captured the data, which was analysed and various means of descriptive statistics applied using Excel from Microsoft Office® 2007. Results UNHC opened in 2004 and initially only operated two afternoons per week; in order to cope with the demand for this service which grew rapidly in 2006 an additional consultation afternoon was added. A total number of 862 patients were seen between June 2004 and June 2008, 497 being new patients and 365 being follow up patients. On average 56% of patients came back for more than one follow up consultation during the study period. The majority of patients who attended UNHC during the study period were African females between 40 and 64 years of age who were unemployed and single. Of the 5 most prevalent systemic disorders encountered at UNHC infectious disorders were the most frequent along with cardiovascular, dermatological, psychological and musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusion The significant increase in patient numbers at UNHC and the relatively high percentage of patients who returned for more than one follow up consultation are positive trends and suggestive of UNHC’s success in providing homoeopathic primary healthcare as well as the positive impact it has had on the surrounding community. With additional funding UNHC can improve service provision further; dedicated translators as well as various equipment to facilitate administration will streamline the consultation process significantly and allow for more patients to be seen. Expansion of the scope of diagnostic services provided such as pregnancy and glucose testing will reduce the need for referral for such basic services. V Future studies should formally measure patient benefit in response to treatment in the form of a patient benefit survey; qualitative measures of patient satisfaction with the service provided by UNHC are also warranted.

Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for the Master’s Degree in Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2011. / Recent homoeopathic graduate studies (Babaletakis, 2006 and Sweidan, 2007) indicate that the majority of qualified Homoeopaths are currently practicing yet are experiencing many difficulties along the way. These setbacks are largely related to financial stresses and the difficulties experienced with regards to maintaining a practice. However, a minority of successful homoeopaths that have managed to overcome these difficulties have been identified. AIM This study aimed to identify a minimum of nine successful homoeopaths, and, through an in-depth interview discover their views on success and how they have managed to build up viable practices. The study aimed to identify the factors contributing to the success of these Homoeopathic practices and establish relationships that may have existed between these factors. METHODOLOGY This research was conducted in a qualitative manner, following an ethnographic approach, which also guided the method of data analysis. It was thus a descriptive, case study research design. Interviewees/subjects were selected through snowball sampling. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with each subject, in which the researcher followed an interview guideline. These interviews were recorded and analysed conceptually. All the transcribed interviews were then further organised by using the software programme NVivo 8.0. which allowed for the process of coding. iv RESULTS Common themes as related to success emerged from the data that was collected. Further analysis revealed links between certain factors that had been identified within the themes. The results reflected that honesty and the ability to listen and understand people, together with perseverance and determination, were qualities that enabled these homoeopaths to achieve success. It was evident that valuing oneself as a practitioner and thus charging accordingly, as well as minimising overheads where possible, all contributed to the viability of the practice. The use of modalities impacted on financial gain and was found to enhance patient numbers. Availability, success of healing and an interactive practitioner - patient relationship was also found to have an effect on patient base stability and size. Burnout was identified as being related to the balance in a practitioner’s lifestyle. A high self-esteem coupled with a good support structure, were factors that minimised burnout. Continued professional development was important to these practitioners as evidently one’s knowledge was seen to have an impact on confidence, patient numbers and thus overall success as a healer. CONCLUSION Success has been attributed to many factors in this study, many of which are interlinked. These findings have provided valuable insight into a successful homoeopathic career.

Submitted in fulfillment of the requirements of the Degree of Doctor of Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2011. / Aim This study sought to appraise homoeopathic proving methodology as a bridge between the indigenous and rationalist-scientific understandings of medicinal plants through a detailed exploration of the relationships existing between data derived from respective paradigmatic explorations of a single African traditional medicinal plant, Strychnos henningsii [Red bitterberry]. Methods The data derived from the implementation of a triple-blind, placebo-controlled homoeopathic proving methodology, on 32 healthy human subjects (50 percent placebo), using the bark of Strychnos henningsii in the 30CH potency, were evaluated for internal consistency and coherence, and subsequently compared to data derived from a phytochemical analysis of the crude bark sample, and translated data derived from semi-structured mothertongue interviews of eight Zulu traditional healers. The proving data took the form of subjective journal data and the results of four objective blood measures of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), redand white blood cell indices, and liver functions. The subjective data were evaluated in terms of defined inclusion criteria and presented in standard materia medica and repertory formats, and tabulations of objective data were subjected to independent statistical analysis, using repeated-measures ANOVA and profile plots. The crude bark sample was analysed in terms of the presence of strychnine and other indole alkaloids, using highperformance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and interview data related to the indigenous understanding and application of Strychnos henningsii within the traditional African medical paradigm, were audiovisually recorded, collaboratively translated, and independently verified. ABSTRACT iii Qualitative data processing and analysis was effected with the aid of NVivo® software, and a range of comparative analyses were effected with the aid of Radar® homoeopathic software, materia medica references and the Mappa Mundi elemental theory model. Results The proving yielded 581 subjective symptoms, covering a broad range of physical and mental disease manifestations, and nine statistically-significant treatment effects within the objective data set. These included elevation of ESR and changes in two red blood cell indices, four white blood cell indices and two liver function indices. The two proving data sets were demonstrated to show high levels of correlation, although these correlations were not demonstrable for all provers. The phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of between two and five strychnine-related compounds (excluding strychnine itself), and the field interview data served to confirm all except two documented traditions of use, as well as identifying a number of novel indications and application of Strychnos henningsii bark. The comparative analyses demonstrated the integrity of homoeopathic proving methodology as a mode of scientific investigation, and significant and widespread overlaps of proving symptomatology with both the pharmacology and toxicology of strychnine, and the physical and metaphysical understanding and application within the traditional African medical paradigm. Conclusions Homoeopathic proving methodology was discussed in terms of the evident degree of overlap with the indigenous and rationalist-scientific paradigms, and the incomplete nature of the homoeopathic ‘totality’. A number of recommendations were made for future cross-paradigmatic research. / Durban University of Technology. Postgraduate Development and Support Directorate.