M.Tech. (Homoeopathy) / Please refer to full text to view abstract

M.Tech. (Homoeopathy) / Please refer to full text to view abstract

M.Tech. (Homoeopathy) / South Africa is a diverse and multi-cultured country where coronary vascular disease has become a leading cause of mortality among all sub-cultures. According to the South African Dyslipidaemia Guidelines Consensus Statement published in 2012 it is estimated that every day 80 people die of myocardial infarcts and 60 people die of strokes. Hypercholesterolaemia is associated with the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques which lead to the condensing and restriction of vessel walls. This in turn leads to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease which can present itself in the form of hypertension and coronary heart disease (Knox, 2008). This product Vasostate™ proposes to lower total serum cholesterol levels in a variety of ways ranging from aiding and increasing the transport of cholesterol to the liver while decreasing the amount of cholesterol synthesised by the liver to reducing cholesterol uptake from the intestines (Foodstate, n.d.). The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of Vasostate™ on modifying elevated lipid and CRP levels in males with fasting total serum cholesterol levels greater than 4.5mmol/l utilising blood measures including Lipogram and ultra-sensitive CRP within a 12 week period. This was a double-blind placebo controlled study conducted over a 13 week period utilising 40 male participants 30 to 55 years of age. Participants qualified for participation in the study with two rapid total plasma cholesterol test results averaging between 4.5-6.5mmol/l and no more than two Category 2 cardiovascular risk factors or a plasma cholesterol greater than 6.5mmol/l with no more than one Category 2 cardiovascular risk factors in individuals who are unwilling or unable to take conventional dyslipidaemia medicine. Participants were divided into 2 groups of 20 each. The control group was given the placebo (an identical form to the active in appearance), while the experimental group received Vasostate™. In order to ensure uniform distribution of participants across both groups stratification of participants between each group took place according to race and cigarette smoking. To guarantee the double blinded aspect of the study the researcher was not informed which group was the active or the placebo until the statistical results were released...

M.Tech. / Estimates extrapolated from the UK, USA and Canada, suggest a prevalence of chronic constipation in South Africa of approximately 700-720,000 in a population of 44 million (Cure Research, 2007). According to Rivkin and Chagan (2006) these US statistics do not accurately represent the true incidence of the problem which is predominantly self managed. The yearly US sale of over the counter laxatives exceeds $600 million (2006). Allopathic treatments only temporarily alleviate constipation, and overuse of laxatives results in many side-effects. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of Constipation 6c®, in the treatment of symptoms of functional chronic constipation, in females using the modified Rome II criteria for chronic constipation. This double blinded study was conducted using matched pairs. Thirty female participants between the ages of 18-35 were recruited using advertisements placed at the Health Training Centre on the UJ Doornfontien campus and Weleda Pharmacy (Fourways). The study was conducted over six weeks, during which time the participants attended weekly consultations. At the first consultation participants signed an information and consent form (Appendix B). For the first week no medication was administrated, however participants were asked to complete a daily recording sheet rating their symptoms (Appendix D) based on the modified Rome II criteria for chronic functional constipation. At the second visit participants were match-paired according to age, severity of symptoms and duration of symptoms (Appendix K). Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental or the placebo group by an independent administrator. During the follow up consultations participants received the complex homoeopathic remedy, Constipation 6c® or placebo, and were instructed to take five pillules three times a day, and to record changes in symptoms on the daily recording sheet (Appendix D). At each follow up visit, the researcher collected the daily recording sheets, completed a focused physical examination and documented any changes in symptoms.

M.Tech. / Allergic rhinitis is on the increase around the world affecting between 15-20% of the global population and is the most common chronic condition of children in South Africa. Luffeel® is a propriety complex homeopathic product manufactured by Biologische Heilmittel Heel. It is available in nasal spray and tablet form. These two forms are designed to work in combination with each other in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of a combination of Luffeel® nasal spray and Luffeel® tablets on allergic rhinitis using Phadiatop® tests, RAST Inhalant screens and subjective evaluation on symptoms such as nasal itching, sneezing, congestion, discharge, ocular redness and itching as indicators. This study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted at the University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein campus over a period of eight weeks. Thirty participants were recruited by poster advertisement. It can be concluded that Luffeel® nasal spray and Luffeel® tablets decrease the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, when compared to the placebo, thus giving persons suffering from allergic rhinitis an alternative treatment with no rebound or lethargic effects. It can also be concluded that this study that Luffeel® nasal spray and Luffeel® tablets has no significant effect on Phadiatop® and RAST inhalant screens over an eight week period. The results are inconclusive due to the small sample size and short time frame of the study.

This research involved the holistic, individualized treatment of patients with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), employing homoeopathic medicine. Post traumatic stress disorder can lead to a variety of complications which may diminish or destroy interpersonal relationships, may handicap the patient occupationally or recreationally, or may lead to substance abuse. Research has indicated that patients with PTSD are more likely to have a personality disorder; a previous history of depression, abuse or substance abuse or a family history of psychopathology. Given this, it is presumed that PTSD can occur in anyone who has experienced trauma and sufficient stress. In order to reduce post traumatic stress severity, treatment should emphasise and acknowledge that mental, emotional, behavioural and social factors contribute to trauma. This study involved ten patients (plus two additional) who participated in five homoeopathic consultations, over a period of four months. The appropriate homoeopathic remedy, or similimum, was determined using each patient’s distinguishing mental, emotional and physical symptoms. Each participant completed the Researcher’s Questionnaire at each consultation and recorded their stress episodes on a calendar to be handed in at each follow-up appointment. These results, together with holistic progress as noted by the researcher at every consultation, were used to determine the efficacy of homoeopathy on post traumatic stress disorder. The intent of the research was to prove that treatment should be specific and individualistic, irrespective of the diagnosis. This study aimed to provide a holistic therapy for PTSD and the results indicated that the similimum treatment in sufferers of post traumatic stress disorder was effective in reducing post traumatic stress frequency, severity, and intensity. Moreover, improvement in mental and emotional wellbeing, sleep patterns, appetite, and energy levels were noted in all the patients. / Dr. R. Mistry Dr. A. Fourie

M.Tech. / Alcohol intoxication is often linked to crime, motor vehicle accidents, violence and acts of aggression. There is currently no reversal agent or antidote available for alcohol intoxication. A study conducted by the University of Johannesburg, reports positive results when using Chelidonium 3cH and 30cH to reduce breath alcohol levels. Homeopathy is a therapeutic system based primarily on the Law of Similars. The drug picture of Chelidonium majus is well matched to the symptom picture of acute alcohol intoxication and is thus a well-indicated remedy to treat the symptoms of this condition. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of the homeopathic preparations Chelidonium majus 3cH and 30cH to reduce breath alcohol levels when compared to a placebo. This was a double blind, placebo controlled study. The sample groups were recruited using advertisements at the University of Johannesburg Doornfontein Campus and surrounding areas and consisted of thirty male participants between 20 and 45 years of age. Participants were required to attend three experimental sessions. The researcher completed a selection form to exclude interested parties with abnormal vital sign readings, diabetes, drug or alcohol addiction, history of cerebrovascular accident (stroke), diagnosed hypotension or hypertension, diagnosed hyperlipidaemia, liver or gallbladder disease, recent head trauma, taking any medication contra-indicating alcohol ingestion or history of chronic cardiac or renal disease. The Widmark formula was used to determine the exact amount of 43% brandy, diluted with cola drink to obtain a 20% volume-to-volume dilution. These calculations were done according to the weight of each participant to ensure that their breath alcohol concentrations were increased to the legal limit of 0.08 mg/dL. In the first session, the participants only consumed the alcohol to establish a baseline reading for their breath alcohol levels. During session two participants in the experimental group received a single powder medicated with Chelidonium majus 3cH. Participants in the placebo group received an unmedicated powder. During session three participants in the experimental group received a single powder medicated with Chelidonium majus 30cH. Participants in the placebo group received an unmedicated powder. During each session breath alcohol measurements were taken and recorded at twenty minutes, forty minutes, sixty minutes and eighty minutes after the initial alcoholic beverage has been ingested. The breath alcohol readings were statistically analysed and compared by Ms. Riette Eiselen, Head: Statistical Consultation Services (STATKOM), University of Johannesburg. Independent sample t-tests and a Mann-Whitney test were used to determine if there was any significant difference between the median breath alcohol reductions of the experimental and the control group. These tests indicated that there was no significant difference between the median breath alcohol reductions of the experimental and the control group on any variable at any point in time for any one of the sessions. A One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test was utilised to determine if there was any significant reduction in breath alcohol levels during the 3 sessions in both the experimental and control groups. The test revealed that both groups showed a significant decrease in breath alcohol concentrations but that there was no significant difference between the breath alcohol reductions between groups. Participation in the study was voluntary and withdrawal or refusal to continue was allowed at any time. Participants had the option to remain anonymous. Since Chelidonium majus 3cH and 30cH are rarely associated with side effects, the risk factors for participants in the study were minimal and no adverse effects were anticipated. In the event of an emergency, medical personnel were on standby. Participants were requested not to leave the venue until breathalyzer tests revealed a breath alcohol concentration of 0.01 g/dL. The results of the study were made available to the participants on request.

M.Tech. (Homoeopathy) / Atopic dermatitis (atopic eczema) is a chronic, relapsing, allergic inflammatory skin disease (Hauk, 2008). The prevalence of atopic dermatitis has increased significantly over the past few decades, with highest rates of 45 – 64% occurring amongst preschool children (Butler, 2009), and 40% amongst older children and adults (Manjra, 2005). This increase in prevalence is attributed to environmental factors such as microbial exposure and poor nutrition, which can all lead to atopic dermatitis (Schnopp, 2006). The quality of life of patients suffering from atopic dermatitis and their family members are significantly affected (Manjra, 2005). Atopic dermatitis is characterized by active skin lesions that are red, flaky, dry and itchy and in children commonly occurs in the flexural areas of the body (Fölster-Hols et al., 2007, Schnopp, 2006). Conventional treatment potions for atopic dermatitis are associated with adverse effects in children (Kalicharan et al., 2005). Homoeopathic remedies may offer an alternative option for this condition. This study aimed to assess the effect of a homoeopathic complex consisting of Graphites 6cH, Histaminum 9cH, Psorinum 6cH and Sulphur 6cH, on atopic dermatitis in children. All the participants of the study received the homoeopathic complex. The atopic dermatitis was evaluated using the SCORAD index (Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis) (Appendix F) and the Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) (Appendix E). Thirty four participants who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited to participate in this pre-test – post-test single group study by means of advertisements (Appendix A) placed in and around primary schools in the Gauteng area (with relevant permission given) and in the local newspaper. Participants were also recruited via word of mouth. Once participants were accepted into the study they were allocated into the treatment group which received the homoeopathic complex containing Graphites 6cH, Histaminum 9cH, Psorinum 6cH and Sulphur 6cH. The study was completed over a four week period. The percentage of the area affected, the intensity of the symptoms, the pruritus and the loss of sleep as well as the quality of life of the participants suffering from atopic dermatitis were aspects of the condition evaluated on a weekly basis. The results for the CDLQI showed improvements in the participant’s perception of itching/ pain of the affected area, as well as their quality of sleep. These improvements were shown to have occurred gradually over the study period. There were however no statistically significant changes noted in the mental and emotional quality of life of the participants.

M.Tech. (Homoeopathy) / Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition, affecting mostly adolescents. This study attempts to demonstrate the effect of the homoeopathically prepared remedy Testis compositum in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Thirty participants were selected for the study, but only 28 completed the study. The study was conducted over a period of 8 weeks. All the participants formed the control group during the first two weeks of the study, and then formed the experimental group for the next six weeks. During the control period, the participants received placebo medication. At the start of the control period, and at two week intervals through the duration of the study, the participants were assessed by counting the acne lesions – only facial Acne vulgaris was assessed during the trial. At the start of the control period, the start of the experimental period, and after completion of all treatment, frontal and bilateral facial photographs were taken to enable visualisation of the changes that occurred during the study. The results were statistically analysed using the t-test, the Wilcoxon test and descriptive statistics. The results show that treatment with Testis compositum had a significant effect in improving acne vulgaris.

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