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Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for a Masters Degree in Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2009. / INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of homoeopathic simillimum in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) in schoolgoing children aged 6-11 years. AD/HD affects approximately 3-5% of children worldwide. It is thus a highly prevalent childhood disorder characterised by hyperactivity, impulsivity and restlessness. There are 3 subtypes of the condition, namely combined type, predominantly inattentive type and predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type (DSM-IV-TR, 2000 pg 90). OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to determine the efficacy of homoeopathic simillimum in the treatment of this disorder, and thus promote homoeopathy as a safe alternative to conventional AD/HD treatments. METHODOLOGY The study was conducted as a double-blind placebo-controlled study. The sample group consisted of 30 participants. There was an experimental group of 16, which was compared to a placebo control group of 14. Participants were recruited from the greater Durban area. They had to satisfy clear inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants and parents/guardians were required to attend 3 consultations with the researcher at The Homoeopathic Day Clinic over a 2-month period. The ADHD Rating Scale-IV Home and School Versions (Appendices B and C) had to be completed by the participant’s parent/guardian and teacher respectively. One was filled in at the initial consultation to serve as a baseline reading, and thereafter, every month. Remedies were dispensed at the first 2 consultations and these remedies were decided upon after thorough case-taking, use of Radar 9.0 Homoeopathic Software and discussion with 1 of 2 selected clinicians. Those on placebo were given free treatment at the end of the study. RESULTS Statistical analysis was conducted on the ADHD Rating Scales-IV Home and School Versions (Appendices B and C), completed by the parent/guardian and teacher respectively. Improvement was based on a decrease in the rating scale score. On analysis, the results (Table 4.8, 4.9 and 4.10) showed no statistically significant effect of treatment (i.e. no difference between treatment and placebo group), but across the whole trial and within each group (particularly the treatment group) subjects had significant reductions in symptoms (i.e. the reductions in symptoms were large enough that there was less than 5% chance that they were random fluctuations/effects). This was seen in both the treatment and placebo groups, as indicated by Table 4.11, 4.12 and 4.13, but more significant reductions were seen in the treatment group, indicated by Table 4.14. As discussed in Chapter 5, this by no means rules out the efficacy of homoeopathic simillimum for the treatment of AD/HD. CONCLUSIONS A large number of parents, teachers and doctors are seeking a safe, effective way to treat this highly prevalent disorder (Soreff & Chang, 2008) and, although the study did not satisfy the hypothesis that homoeopathic simillimum is an effective treatment for AD/HD in schoolgoing children, it did aid in creating awareness of the use of homoeopathy as a treatment option for this condition and highlighted the need for more extensive research to be undertaken for this treatment option. It is the researcher’s opinion that larger, longer duration studies, employing quantitative analysis, as well as qualitative analysis would yield more significant results.

Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for a Masters Degree in Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2009. / INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of homoeopathic simillimum in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) in schoolgoing children aged 6-11 years. AD/HD affects approximately 3-5% of children worldwide. It is thus a highly prevalent childhood disorder characterised by hyperactivity, impulsivity and restlessness. There are 3 subtypes of the condition, namely combined type, predominantly inattentive type and predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type (DSM-IV-TR, 2000 pg 90). OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to determine the efficacy of homoeopathic simillimum in the treatment of this disorder, and thus promote homoeopathy as a safe alternative to conventional AD/HD treatments. METHODOLOGY The study was conducted as a double-blind placebo-controlled study. The sample group consisted of 30 participants. There was an experimental group of 16, which was compared to a placebo control group of 14. Participants were recruited from the greater Durban area. They had to satisfy clear inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants and parents/guardians were required to attend 3 consultations with the researcher at The Homoeopathic Day Clinic over a 2-month period. The ADHD Rating Scale-IV Home and School Versions (Appendices B and C) had to be completed by the participant’s parent/guardian and teacher respectively. One was filled in at the initial consultation to serve as a baseline reading, and thereafter, every month. Remedies were dispensed at the first 2 consultations and these remedies were decided upon after thorough case-taking, use of Radar 9.0 Homoeopathic Software and discussion with 1 of 2 selected clinicians. Those on placebo were given free treatment at the end of the study. RESULTS Statistical analysis was conducted on the ADHD Rating Scales-IV Home and School Versions (Appendices B and C), completed by the parent/guardian and teacher respectively. Improvement was based on a decrease in the rating scale score. On analysis, the results (Table 4.8, 4.9 and 4.10) showed no statistically significant effect of treatment (i.e. no difference between treatment and placebo group), but across the whole trial and within each group (particularly the treatment group) subjects had significant reductions in symptoms (i.e. the reductions in symptoms were large enough that there was less than 5% chance that they were random fluctuations/effects). This was seen in both the treatment and placebo groups, as indicated by Table 4.11, 4.12 and 4.13, but more significant reductions were seen in the treatment group, indicated by Table 4.14. As discussed in Chapter 5, this by no means rules out the efficacy of homoeopathic simillimum for the treatment of AD/HD. CONCLUSIONS A large number of parents, teachers and doctors are seeking a safe, effective way to treat this highly prevalent disorder (Soreff & Chang, 2008) and, although the study did not satisfy the hypothesis that homoeopathic simillimum is an effective treatment for AD/HD in schoolgoing children, it did aid in creating awareness of the use of homoeopathy as a treatment option for this condition and highlighted the need for more extensive research to be undertaken for this treatment option. It is the researcher’s opinion that larger, longer duration studies, employing quantitative analysis, as well as qualitative analysis would yield more significant results. / M

Submitted in partial compliance with the requirements of the Master’s Degree in Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2013. / Introduction Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition (disorder of the pilosebaceous duct) which is universal in adolescence. Acne vulgaris can persist into adulthood, with 1% of males and 5% of females requiring treatment until 40 years of age. Aim The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of a homoeopathic complex (Kalium bromatum 9CH, Natrum muriaticum 9CH, Selenium 9CH, Sulphur 9CH and Thuja occidentalis 9CH), compared to placebo, in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Methodology A total of 37 participants between the ages of 18 and 31 were recruited from the Greater Durban area by means of poster advertisements placed on notice boards in shops, pharmacies, health shops, hospitals, schools, tertiary institutions including Durban University of Technology, and other public areas. Handouts were also left at these areas for people to take home. The final sample consisted of 34 participants due to the drop out of 3 participants. After participants read an information letter (English or Zulu), fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the research, were diagnosed as having acne vulgaris by the researcher and completed an informed consent form (English or Zulu) and confidential patient information form (English or Zulu), they were randomly assigned to an experimental (homoeopathic complex) group and a control (placebo) group. In the final sample, the experimental (homoeopathic complex) group consisted of 7 males and 10 females, and the control (placebo) group consisted of 9 males and 8 females. Consultations took place at the Durban University of Technology Homoeopathic Day Clinic, and consisted of 3 consultations, an initial consultation followed by 2 follow-up consultations at 3 weekly intervals. The treatment period for each participant was therefore 6 weeks. A case history was taken and a complete physical examination was performed for all participants. The Leeds counting technique was used to assess and measure the response to treatment. The lesions assessed were the non-inflamed lesions (blackheads and whiteheads), inflamed lesions (papules, pustules, nodules, cysts and deep pustules) and the total number of acne lesions (number of non-inflamed and inflamed lesions combined). The response to treatment was measured in terms of a reduction in the number of non-inflamed, number of inflamed and total number of acne lesions, on the face, over the 6 weeks. SPSS version 20 was used to analyse the data. A p value of < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Non-parametric tests were used to analyse the data. The number of non-inflamed, number of inflamed and total number of acne lesions were compared within groups using the Friedman test and between groups using the Mann-Whitney U test. The number of lesions was compared separately for males and females, and also without gender classification. Results In females, the control (placebo) group showed a statistically significant reduction in the total number of acne lesions when compared to the experimental group (p = 0.034). However, as a whole, it was concluded from the results of this study that there was no significant difference in the number of non-inflamed (p = 0.193), number of inflamed (p = 0.290), and total number of acne lesions (p = 0.193) between the experimental (homoeopathic complex) and control (placebo) groups. Both groups showed a similar reduction when compared to each other. Conclusion It was concluded that the homoeopathic complex was not effective in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for a Masters Degree in Technology: Homeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2009. / Introduction The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge and perceptions of parents towards homeopathy. Parents with children below 5 years, who attended a registered Crèche or Educare within the central Durban area (Appendix H – ‘Register’ and Appendix I ‘Map’) were approached. Objective The objective of the study was to determine the knowledge, attitudes and parent’s experience with paediatric health care provision towards homeopathy. The awareness of parents with regard to the benefits of homeopathic treatment for children as a possible alternative was also determined. Methodology A survey method in the form of a questionnaire was employed to investigate the perceptions of parents towards homeopathy in the treatment of their children. The target population for this survey was parents, whose children were below 5 years of age and attended a registered Crèche or Educare in the central Durban, Berea, Musgrave and Morningside areas (Appendix I – ‘Map’). The data accumulated was evaluated and analyzed statistically using the SPSS version 17.1. Results A total of 300 questionnaires were distributed and a total of 140 (46.6%) questionnaires were returned. With regards to legitimacy of homeopathy most parents (72.1%) perceived homeopathy to be a legitimate form of medicine. 70.92% of all respondents were aware that homeopathy has a scientific basis. It was encouraging to note that 10.64% of the sample consults with a homeopath when their child is ill or indisposed. The majority of respondents (77.14%) indicated that homeopathic treatment should be available in hospitals and clinics. Only 3.57% felt that it should not be incorporated in hospitals and clinics. This indicates that most respondents perceive that integrated medicine is needed in a hospital setting. The majority of respondents (90.71%) felt that there should be more awareness of homeopathy. Despite the lack of knowledge, a large number of respondents indicated that homeopathy should be available for most medical conditions. Conclusion This study reveals that most respondents had a positive view of homeopathy in general and were enthusiastic to learn more about homeopathy. Although people are aware that homeopathy exists, a lack of knowledge and understanding of its methods and principles prevents them from seeking homeopathic treatment. A need to provide basic homeopathic education to the public exists. Education initiatives should aim to differentiate homeopathy from other alternative therapies, to dispel the confusion and to eliminate misconceptions about homeopathy. This study indicates that by educating the public on paediatric homeopathy, more individuals would be likely to seek homeopathic treatment for their children.

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.

Submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for the Master's degree in technology in Technology : Homeopathy, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2015. / Introduction There is no proper definition of acute mechanical neck pain (AMNP) but it has been theorized that it has a sudden onset pain and lasts for a relatively short time. It occurs with or without injury and presents with pain in the shoulder and upper arm. Acute mechanical neck pain should not be accompanied by an inflammatory disease, neurological disease, fracture, dislocation, neoplasm or infection AIM The purpose of this study was to compare the relative effectiveness of homoeopathic Simillimum against Traumeel® (a commercial homoeopathic complex) in the treatment of acute mechanical neck pain using the neck disability scale, range of motion measurements and a subjective observation. METHODOLOGY This study was a double blind, quantitative, comparative; clinical trial that involved two treatment groups: Half the participants received the homoeopathic Simillimum and the other half received oral Traumeel® drops. Patients self-selected homoeopathic treatment. Patients were screened and only those who fit the inclusion criteria of suffering from AMNP of maximal two weeks duration, were English conversant and between the ages of 18 and 55 were included. Those suffering with AMNP were required to sign an informed consent form after the procedure was explained thoroughly. Each patient read through the procedure of the clinical trial and were informed that their participation was on a voluntary basis and they could withdraw at any time. Convenience sampling was utilised in which an independent person, using a simple sampling method, randomly allocated the patients into the respective groups. Of the 30 patients, 15 received Traumeel® and 15 received homoeopathic Simillimum. It was hypothesized that the homoeopathic Simillimum treatment would be more effective in the treatment of acute mechanical neck pain than oral Traumeel®. The treatment protocol consisted of three homoeopathic consultations within a seven day period, with the consultations scheduled on days one, three and seven. Subjective and objective measurements were taken at each of the three consultations, Durban University of Technology Homoeopathic Day Clinic, Steve Biko Campus. A Simillimum treatment was prescribed for every patient based on full homoeopathic case history. This Simillimum was confirmed by the co-supervisor. Half of the patients were dispensed the Simillimum and the other half received Traumeel® according to the randomisation list. At the first follow up, on day three, the patients were reassessed according to their progress, perception and their range of motion, and the progress of the patient was analysed. In the last consultation on day seven, the progress of the patient was analysed using the perceptive questionnaire of the Neck Disability Index and the objective cervical range of motion. Full physical examinations were carried out during all three consultations. Upon collection of data, the statistical package SPSS 22.0 was used to record and analyse the data. Non parametric statistical tests were used as the data were non parametric - it does not follow any distribution, was ordinal (not relying on numbers but rather a ranking order of sorts). Inter-group comparisons were made using Mann-Whitney U-test. RESULTS The effectiveness of Traumeel® and homoeopathic Simillimum was measured firstly, in terms of the patients’ perception of the responses to the treatment applying the Neck Disability Index and secondly the increase in degree of movement in the range of motion of the cervical region. When applying an ANOVA with repeated measures with a Greenhouse-Geisser correction, the mean scores between groups were statistically not significantly different (p = 0.112). CONCLUSION Both the Traumeel® and Simillimum treatments were effective in the treatment of acute mechanical neck pain, but there was no evidence that one treatment was more beneficial than the other. The p-values (sig.) reported were greater than 0.05, thus implying that there is no significant difference between the groups.

Mini-dissertation was submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for the Master’s Degree in Technology: Homoeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2012. / It was reported by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Diabetes Atlas, in 2003, that a prevalence figure of 3.4% exists for the 24 million South Africans between the ages of 20 and 79, with an expected increase to 3.9% by 2025. Considering that patients with diabetes are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, blindness, amputation and renal failure it is therefore not surprising that the costs associated with diabetes are estimated to increase worldwide. It is clear that according to the current trends in dietary and exercise practices, South Africa will be affected by the rise in obesity and subsequent diabetes mellitus. It is critical that a concerted effort involving all parties concerned be made to combat this rapidly increasing problem (Rheeder, 2006:20). AIM The purpose of this double-blind, randomized clinical trial was to compare the effectiveness of Momordica charantia homoeopathic mother tincture as compared to Momordica charantia 6CH, in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients on Metformin. METHODOLOGY Thirty patients were recruited and were selected for the study on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. These participants were then randomly and equally divided into two groups. Each participant attended a total of four consultations with the researcher, over a two month period, at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Homoeopathic Day Clinic. At the commencement of the first consultation, each participant received the subject information letter (Appendix A) for perusal and the informed consent form (Appendix B) to sign. Following this, the researcher took a full, detailed iv case history (Appendix F) and performed a physical examination (Appendix G) of each patient. Participants were required to have a Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C) test performed following the first and fourth consultations. Participants were also required to complete daily Log Sheets (comprising self administered fasting blood glucose readings using issued Bayer Ascensia Elite Glucometers) for the entire duration of the study (8 weeks). SPSS version 18 was used to analyse the data. A p value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The time effect was assessed for intra-group comparison whereas the time x group treatment effect was assessed for inter-group comparison. Means were calculated for both fasting blood glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin for the two respective groups and tabulated in order to describe the data obtained (Descriptive statistics). RESULTS Both groups reflected a statistically non significant decrease in fasting blood glucose levels with no significant differences between the two groups when comparing reduction in fasting blood glucose levels. Group 1 (Momordica charantia homoeopathic mother tincture) reflected a non significant increase in glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C) levels while Group 2 (Momordica charantia 6CH) reflected a statistically significant increase over time in HbA1C levels. There were no significant differences between the two groups when comparing reduction in HbA1C levels. / M

Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for a Masters Degree in Technology: Homeopathy, Durban University of Technology, 2009. / Introduction The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge and perceptions of parents towards homeopathy. Parents with children below 5 years, who attended a registered Crèche or Educare within the central Durban area (Appendix H – ‘Register’ and Appendix I ‘Map’) were approached. Objective The objective of the study was to determine the knowledge, attitudes and parent’s experience with paediatric health care provision towards homeopathy. The awareness of parents with regard to the benefits of homeopathic treatment for children as a possible alternative was also determined. Methodology A survey method in the form of a questionnaire was employed to investigate the perceptions of parents towards homeopathy in the treatment of their children. The target population for this survey was parents, whose children were below 5 years of age and attended a registered Crèche or Educare in the central Durban, Berea, Musgrave and Morningside areas (Appendix I – ‘Map’). The data accumulated was evaluated and analyzed statistically using the SPSS version 17.1. Results A total of 300 questionnaires were distributed and a total of 140 (46.6%) questionnaires were returned. With regards to legitimacy of homeopathy most parents (72.1%) perceived homeopathy to be a legitimate form of medicine. 70.92% of all respondents were aware that homeopathy has a scientific basis. It was encouraging to note that 10.64% of the sample consults with a homeopath when their child is ill or indisposed. The majority of respondents (77.14%) indicated that homeopathic treatment should be available in hospitals and clinics. Only 3.57% felt that it should not be incorporated in hospitals and clinics. This indicates that most respondents perceive that integrated medicine is needed in a hospital setting. The majority of respondents (90.71%) felt that there should be more awareness of homeopathy. Despite the lack of knowledge, a large number of respondents indicated that homeopathy should be available for most medical conditions. Conclusion This study reveals that most respondents had a positive view of homeopathy in general and were enthusiastic to learn more about homeopathy. Although people are aware that homeopathy exists, a lack of knowledge and understanding of its methods and principles prevents them from seeking homeopathic treatment. A need to provide basic homeopathic education to the public exists. Education initiatives should aim to differentiate homeopathy from other alternative therapies, to dispel the confusion and to eliminate misconceptions about homeopathy. This study indicates that by educating the public on paediatric homeopathy, more individuals would be likely to seek homeopathic treatment for their children. / M

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. / M