Clinical evaluation of homoeopathic medicines in filariasis
Objectives: The objectives of
the study were to evolve a group of most effective homoeopathic medicines in
the management of filariasis and to identify their reliable indications, most
useful potencies, frequency of administration and their relationship with other
medicines.
Methods: It was a
multi-centric observational study (Open clinical trial) carried out by Central
Council for Research in Homoeopathy at its Regional Research Institute (Homoeopathy), Puri, Orissa (1980-2003),
Regional Research Institute (Homoeopathy), Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh
(1984-2003), Clinical Research Unit (Homoeopathy), Tirupathi, Andhra Pradesh
(1982-2003). A total of 11445 out of 22317 filariasis patients enrolled were followed up. All cases were
subjected to routine Complete Blood Count, routine & microscopic
examination of stool and urine and night blood examination for presence or
absence of microfilaria in peripheral blood. The detailed case recording was done for each case of filariasis and the
medicine (similimum) was prescribed according to the principles of Homoeopathy.
Participants reporting improvement were followed up for a period ranging
from 3 to 5 years to see if there was any recurrence. Initially limb size was
measured at 4 different points of the affected extremity. Later ‘water
displacement method’ was used for the measurement of oedema. Each case was
reviewed every year for number of attacks and progression or regression of
oedema.
Results: Out of 11445 patients, 8992 cases improved in
varying degrees: marked improvement in 4341 cases, moderate improvement in 1927
cases and mild improvement in 2724 cases. There was no relief in 2151 cases and
302 cases were worse after treatment. A total of 6268 cases had complete
absence of clinical events for a period ranging from 2 to 3 years. A group of
homoeopathic medicines were found effective in relieving the symptoms and signs
of filariasis when prescribed as
per their indications. Most effective medicines were Apis mel. (n=791), Bryonia alba (n=1800), Natrum muriaticum
(n=551), Pulsatilla (n=424), Rhododendron (n=158), Rhus toxicodendron (n=2957) and Sulphur (n=863).
Conclusion: The outcome of the study shows that homoeopathic
medicines are effective in managing filariasis. A group of most effective
medicines in managing filariasis were evolved and their most reliable
indications were deduced in this study. Most useful potencies of medicines are
30 and 200. The other objectives of the study which included frequency of
administration and relationships with other medicines could not be achieved.
Nirupama Mishra, Pradhan, Satpathy,
Regional Research Institute, Puri.
Dubashi Ramesh, R.V.R. Prasad, S.L.V.
Bharatha Laxmi,
Clinical Research Unit, Tirupaty.
Bholaram
Regional Research Institute, Gudivada.