Recurrent tonsillitits, immunity of children and homoeopathy

Improve the immunity of children and get away from recurrent tonsillitis

Cases of repeated infections are more common these days in day-to-day practice. Perhaps it may be a result of changing life pattern of the parents, environmental factors and prevailing medication. Child with strong immunity would usually remain free from frequent childhood diseases. Weak immune children usually report with one or the other problem frequently. Tonsillitis is one among the commonly encountered frequent infections. Homoeopathy is known to act medicinally in different stages of tonsillitis and prevent recurrences by enhancing immunity. Perhaps because of this reason many parents turn to homoeopathy for managing their children’s tonsillitis which would also improve their immunity. This article discusses about the tonsillitis in general, effectiveness of antibiotics, causes for weak immunity, ways to improve the immunity and the drugs to manage tonsillitis.

Tonsils and tonsillitis – at a glance

Tonsils form a part of a ring of lymphoid tissue which is situated in the upper air passages working as first line of defence against infection entering either by respiratory or digestive tracts.   The second line of defence consists of cervical glands, which drain it.   In chronic conditions the inflammation can spread to surrounding organs like ear, pharynx, etc. Normally it is advisable not to remove tonsils because of the above function. Acute tonsillitis is a common painful condition mostly in children. It starts with sore-throat, difficulty in swallowing associated with malaise, fever, headache and pain in limbs. In most of the cases it is accompanied with Group A β haemolytic streptococcus, staphylococcus aureus, etc. If allowed to move to other body parts may create havoc. It should not be neglected because of the serious subsequent complications which sometimes occur like rheumatism and glomerulonephritis. It may have the tonsil involved as general inflammation of the pharynx or it may be follicular which is a very common form where the tonsil is red and swollen and becomes filled with pus.  This painful condition sometimes extends to the ears.  Tonsillitis is most of the time abrupt in onset.  Chronic tonsillitis may occur in persons who had repeated acute attacks. 

How antibiotics are becoming ineffective in tonsillitis?

It is a known fact that antibiotics develop resistance in microorganisms and diminishes immunity. The frequently quoted example is that of Penicillin which destroys bacteria by entering the bacterium and binding to proteins on the bacterial cell wall. Over a period of time resistance develops when the bacteria modifies the proteins in its cell wall so that penicillin can no longer bind effectively to the bacteria cell wall. This resistance has become more common now and is called as antimicrobial resistance, shortly AMR. According to WHO “this resistance is increasingly being detected and is spreading rapidly. In some parts of the world, once powerful medicines against many diseases have now become virtually useless.” Homoeopathy cures different stages of tonsillitis by employing a suitable medicine as per the presenting pathology and directly or indirectly improves the immunity.

Causes of weak immunity

Certain foods and environmental influences may affect the normal function of immune system. Many microorganisms, toxins and drugs can cause the impaired immunity directly or indirectly. It is known fact that antibiotics develop resistance in microorganisms and diminishes immunity as mentioned above. Obesity can lead to a depressed immune system. Reports alarming that childhood obesity is increasing. It can affect the ability of white blood cells to multiply, produce antibodies, and rush to the site of an infection. Activation of the immune system can be suppressed due to adverse reaction of some drugs to treatment of other conditions.

How to maintain the healthy immune system

After the child is born, it has to face the challenge of a new environment and unhealthy things like pollution, change of weather and avoidable toxic drugs. The childhood exposure to environmental pollution, food toxins and medications are obstacles for the healthy later life. Too much of antibiotics, other harmful drugs, artificial and junk foods are to be avoided. Children are to be encouraged to play well and do exercises in school. Watching the correct weight, balanced and healthy diet and taking care of the teeth are some of the ways to keep the system healthier. Apart from this, proper sleep and rest are to be maintained because the immune system is strengthened by sleep and rest. Too much of stress to the children is to be avoided. If it is observed, stress-relieving-measures and proper medications are to be followed, because the immune system is impaired by stress. Fresh fruits and vegetables are found to foster a healthy immune system. Likewise, foetal undernourishment can cause a lifelong impairment of the immune system. So care is to be taken in this sense during pregnancy. Some home remedies like garlic and honey are known to stimulate the immune system.

Drugs to manage tonsillitis and the weak immunity simultaneously

Atropinum sulphuricum:  It is the main alkaloid of Belladonna and has been reported to give immediate relief of enhanced quantum expected of the drug Belladonna.  Inflammations are relieved, pain is lowered and circulation improved. It covers pulsating pain, redness, warm swelling and dry throat.

Baryta carbonica: Specially indicated in infants and children, who always have swollen tonsils. Submaxillary glands and tonsils swollen. Takes cold easily, with stitches and smarting pain. Quinsy. Suppurating tonsils from every cold. Tonsils inflamed, with swollen veins. Smarting pain when swallowing; worse empty swallowing. Feeling of a plug in pharynx. Can only swallow liquids.

Baryta muriatica:  It has a great relationship to the throat region, as such helpful in pharyngeal tonsillitis.  Brings down the swelling of the tonsils and allows the secretion to flow.   Symptoms are headache, giddiness, and humming in the ear.  Conditions are worse in cold and damp weather.

Belladonna: Enlarged tonsils, with feeling of constricted throat; difficult deglutition; worse, liquids. Sensation of a lump. Acts better in 3x.

Calcarea carbonica Hahnemanni:  It suits children who apparently look healthy, well-nourished but are sluggish both mentally and physically, are slow at school and games, have weak muscles and are liable to sprain their ankles or catch cold easily.  It covers areas like enlarged tonsils, enlarged cervical glands which are common in children with low immunity.

Calcarea fluorica:  Poor assimilation of calcium often leads to delays in dentition and this drug along with Calcarea phosphorica covers the problem efficiently.  Indication also covers problems related to weak defences like follicular tonsillitis, sore throat, head colds, ineffectual desire to sneeze, stuffy cold, dry coryza, hacking cough from tickling in larynx or frequent hoarseness of voice after crying or reading loudly.

Calcarea phosphorica: It is indicated for swollen tonsils, child cannot open mouth without pain.  It is also useful in associated adenoid growths.

Cinchona officinalis: A drug for tonsillitis with debility, nervousness especially recurring in nature, it suits in the homoeopathic dosage when anaemia is marked. It is a well verified remedy for debility, irritability, throbbing headache, exhausted feeling due to loss of vital fluids, anorexia (loss of appetite), etc. Fever is commonly associated.

Echinacea angustifolia Q/1x: The drug is used to increase resistance functions versus invasion of pathogens (micro-organisms).  It is called as the antibacterial drug of homoeopathy with advantage of acting via increase of biological immunity. It is also a blood purifier.

Ferrum phosphoricum: In the first stage of inflammation. The tonsils are enlarged, hyperemic and painful. A febrile condition may be present.

Hydrastis canadensis: It is effective for all kinds of mucous membrane inflammations, watery coryza, excoriating with burning, smarting and rawness in nose, throat & chest.  Its discharges are scanty indoors and profuse outdoors.  Sneezing, dull frontal headache, tickling in nostril with constant discharge of thick, white, tenacious mucus are also covered.

Hepar sulphuris:  Sore throat, scraping and shooting pain in the throat and even into the ears, as from splinters on swallowing, coughing, breathing and turning the head. Difficulties in speaking and in swallowing are lowered.  Hawking up of mucus and dryness in the throat are alleviated. 3x works better in follicular tonsillitis.

Kalium bichromicum:  It covers erythema of soft palate, bright or dark red, uvula relaxed, edematous - bladder like, with sensation of a plug in throat which is not better by swallowing.  It helps lower the discharge from mouth and throat which tends to be tough and stringy.  It is indicated for chronic tonsillitis and sinusitis.

Kalium muriaticum: It is especially indicated for follicular tonsillitis, tonsils are inflammed and enlarged to an extent that breathing becomes difficult.  It covers grayish patches or spots in the throat and tonsils, adherent crusts in pharynx and sore throat as accompanying symptom.  It also covers Eustachian catarrh.

Mercurius iodatus flavus and ruber: Both are indicated in tonsillitis covering individual symptoms. Mercurius iodatus flavus (Mercury proto-iodide) is a right side remedy whereas Mercurius iodatus ruber (Mercury bin-iodide) is a left side remedy. In the former only the superficial part of the tonsil is involved, whereas in the later the parenchymal part is involved in the inflammation.

Phytolacca decandra: It has organ affinity towards tonsils and other glands and lymph nodes.  It is indicated for focally, sore throat, shooting rheumatic pains, disposition to boils, mastitis, and restlessness.

Silicea: It covers sore throat with accumulation of mucus in the throat,  severe tonsillitis, pain as from excoriation and pricking, swelling of palate and uvula with difficult deglutition.  Expectoration of little granules like shot, which when broken smell very offensive, is also covered by this medicine. It stimulates healing process in general.

Source: Dr. R. Valavan, Improve the immunity of children and get away from recurrent tonsillitis, Homoeopathy For All, Vol. 14 No. 04 (160) April 15 2013

Liver Disorders and Homoeopathy

Common liver disorders and their homoeopathic management

The liver is the largest organ of the body. It is functionally most complex organ. It has multiple life-saving functions like metabolism both anabolic and catabolic. It is responsible for detoxification and eliminates endogenous as well as exogenous (foreign) substances. It takes part in immune reactions, and in the synthesis of coagulation factors. It has exocrine and endocrine functions. As an endocrine organ, it secretes growth factors, angiotensinogen and angiotensin, thrombopoietin, etc. Its exocrine function involved bile production. The liver is a filter and store of different substances (e.g. glycogen, vitamins).  It is the site of serum protein (e.g. albumin, prothrombin, fibrinogen) and enzyme synthesis. Metabolic processes (e.g. bilirubin, hormone, carbohydrate and lipid turnover) and the removal of toxic products are important liver functions.

Viral or bacterial infections of liver or by infestation with parasites have become common. Diseases of the blood or immune system may also interfere with hepatic metabolism and affect liver. Many different types of medication (e.g. acetaminophen, tetracycline, oral contraceptives, chlorpromazine, isoniazid, halothane, androgens) can produce an adverse liver reaction in certain people. Other hepatotoxins (e.g. alcohol, fungal toxins, and anabolic steroids) can cause specific damage to liver cells. Alcohol-induced hepatic injury is a common problem. Toxic hepatitis may be clinically silent or severe enough to lead to the rapid development of hepatic failure. Unhealthy diet may cause liver damage. As a result of these, liver may exhibit symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, headache, abdominal pain, dark urine, generalised itching, fever, weight loss, anorexia and depression. Examination findings may include hepatomegaly, abdominal tenderness and liver enzyme abnormalities. The fatty degeneration of the liver is the most common abnormality observed in chronic alcoholics. In patients with underlying cirrhosis, manifestations of portal hypertension may predominate. This article overviews the common liver problems and lists out the commonly used liver remedies with indication.

Jaundice: It is yellowish pigmentation of the skin and mucous membrane, due to increased levels of bilirubin in the blood (hyperbilirubinaemia). It may be due to abnormalities in the formation, transport, metabolism or excretion of bilirubin. It has non-hepatic as well as hepatic causes. All the common liver remedies like Abies canadensis, Berberis vulgaris, Boldo, Carduus benedictus, Carduus marianus, Cassia fistula, Chelidonium majus, Chelone glabra, Chionanthus virginica, Condurango, Fel tauri 3x & 6x, Hydrastis, Hydrocotyle, Iris versicolor, Pichi pichi (Fabiana imbricata) may be useful in jaundice. Physician has to select the a remedy based on individuality.

Hepatitis (due to Hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D & E): Homoeopathy has a wide scope in viral infections and especially in hepatitis. A thorough case taking will be helpful to choose a remedy from commonly used drugs like Andrographis paniculata, Carduus marianus, Chelidonium, Chionanthus virginicus, Hydrastis canadensis, Ipecacuanha, Iris versicolor, Lachesis, Lycopodium, Nux vomica and others.

Alcoholic hepatitis:  It is becoming common these days. After heavy drinking, symptoms worsen and tend to vary with the severity and progression of the disease. Sometimes symptoms do not present themselves until the disease is relatively advanced. Common symptoms include abdominal pain and tenderness, ascites, confusion, dry mouth / excessive thirst, fatigue, fever, jaundice, loss of appetite, nausea, weight gain due to ascites, etc. Along with drugs for alcoholism like Quercus robur/glandibus, liver remedies to normalise liver function to be used.

Autoimmune hepatitis: It is inflammation of liver due to immune cells that mistake the liver’s normal cells as harmful invaders. A person with autoimmune hepatitis has autoantibodies circulating in the bloodstream that cause the immune system to attack the liver. The cause is predominantly genetic. However, certain bacteria, viruses, toxins and drugs can trigger an autoimmune response in people who are genetically susceptible to develop an autoimmune disorder. Case to be managed symptomatically.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: Fatty liver, also known as fatty liver disease (FLD), is a reversible condition where large vacuoles of triglyceride fat accumulate in liver cells via the process of steatosis (i.e. abnormal retention of lipids within a cell). Some measures like losing weight, regular exercise, improving the diet with fibrous food, avoiding alcohol and fatty substances, controlling cholesterol levels and diabetes are helpful. Drugs like Apocynum, Arsenic Album, Bryonia, Cardus marianus, Chelidonium, Digitalis, Ferrum metallicum, Helleborus Niger, Iris versicolor, Kalium carbonicum, Lycopodium, Natrum carbonicum, Nux Vomica, Phosphorous, Sepia, etc. are commonly used.

Cholelithiasis: It is a medical term for gallstone. Aversion to fatty food, abdominal discomfort, nausea and vomiting after meals may be symptoms of cholelithiasis. Drugs like Aurum muriaticum natronatum 3x & 6x, Berberis vulgaris, Boldo, Chelone glabra, Cholesterinum 3x & 6x, Dioscorea villosa, Fel tauri 3x & 6x and Pichi pichi (Fabiana imbricata) are specific for gallstone.

Bile duct obstruction: It is due to various causes like cysts of the common bile duct, enlarged lymp nodes in the porta hepatis, gallstones, inflammation of the bile ducts, narrowing of the bile ducts from scarring, injury from gallbladder surgery, tumors of the bile ducts or pancreas, tumors that have spread to the biliary system, etc. Scope of homoeopathy in individual case based on causative factor to be established before starting the treatment. Based on this, the choice of remedy & plan of treatment to be drawn.

Toxic hepatitis: It is inflammation of the liver due to medication or exposure to toxic (poisonous) chemicals. First the exposure to toxic substances is to be withdrawn if possible. Drugs for detoxification like Andrographis paniculata, Arsenicum album, Azadirachta indica, Carduus marianus, Chelidonium, Daphne indica, Hydrocotyle, Natrum sulphuricum, Nux vomica, Quercus robur and others are useful.

Cirrhosis: Though it is an irreversible pathology of liver, symptoms are well managed and quality of life can be improved. Common liver drugs like Andrographis paniculata, Carduus marianus, Chelidonium and other will be helpful based on symptom similarity.

Commonly used drugs in liver disorders

Chelidonium majus is a liver remedy, covering many of the direct reflex symptoms of diseased conditions of the organ. It is indicated in jaundice, enlarged liver, gall colic, distension and sluggish bowels due to hepatic disease or bilious complications.

Andrographis paniculata is indicated for liver disease in children, prolonged fever, general debility, enlarged liver and jaundice. It is a tonic and anthelmintic, and is useful in the treatment of dysentery and dyspepsia.

Carduus marianus acts on liver, vascular and portal system, in particular. It is used for liver problems due to abuse of alcoholic beverages, enlargement of liver causing fullness and soreness, hyperaemia of liver, jaundice and initial stages of cirrhosis. Irritability and apathy, lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, profuse diarrhoea and constipation, haemorrhagic piles, and itching at night are covered.

Hydrastis canadensis has a marked action on the liver. It acts on torpid and tender liver, jaundice, dull dragging pain in the right groin, gall stones, constipation, tumour state when pain is prominent. Also useful in cirrhosis of liver.

Iris versicolor: Increases the flow of bile. It is used for sick headaches due to sluggish liver. It is used for pancreas, intestinal glands, and gastro-intestinal mucous membranes where liver affection is marked. In herbal medicine, it is considered as detoxifier and laxative.

Aurum muriaticum natronatum finds its place in the management of fatty degeneration of the liver, hepatic cirrhosis and ascites. It acts on some metabolic dysfunctions of nervous origin, depression and mental derangement, arteriosclerosis and hypertension.

Berberis vulgaris: It has marked action on the liver, promoting the flow of bile. Acts on gallbladder, improving bile flow, reducing pain of gallbladder stones, amoebicide and anti-dysenteric.

Boldo: It is indicated for atony of bladder, cholecystitis, biliary calculus, loss of appetite with bitter taste, constipation, congested or sluggish liver, burning weight in liver. Painful hepatic diseases and disturbed liver function after malaria are also covered by this medicine.

Carduus benedictus: The action of the drug is to stimulate the secretion of stomach, intestine and gall bladder. It has been used for minor digestive complaints and related intermittent fevers. Homoeopathically the indications are sensation of contraction in many parts, and sluggish liver. It is also used in cases of diarrhoea, digestive headaches. Has reported properties similar to antibiotics.

Pichi pichi (Fabiana imbricata): It is also indicated in cases of liver affections and gallstones. It has also tonic and chologogue properties, used in the treatment of jaundice, dyspepsia and to increase the secretion of bile. Useful in cholelithiasis and liver affections.

Abies canadensis: Canine hunger with torpid liver. Gnawing, hungry, faint feeling at the epigastrium. Great appetite, craving for meat, pickles, radishes, turnips, artichokes, coarse food. Tendency to eat far beyond capacity for digestion. Burning and distention of stomach and abdomen with palpitation.

Acidum citricum is used in haemorrhages, oedema and all forms of dropsy. It regulates the bile flow and some forms of acid-base imbalance.

Acidum hydrofluoricum is a remedy which covers digestive dysfunctions of the old or prematurely old due to chronic diseases. It is indicated for abdominal discomfort, enlarged liver, liver deterioration due to alcohol, flatulence, eructation, itching and distended blood vessels.

Cassia fistula: It is indicated in liver diseases and as laxative. There are reports of its useful results in enteric fevers with sluggish liver. Reported to be possessing antiinflammatory and analgesic action.

Chelone glabra: It is a remedy for liver affection with pain or soreness of the left lobe of the liver and extending downwards. It is also used for soreness of external parts, as if skin were off. Phyto-therapy recommends for gallbladder stone and problems of bile flow. Has mild laxative action, relieves nausea, vomiting, intestinal colic. Antidepressant.

Chionanthus virginica: It is a prominent remedy for liver, gallbladder, jaundice and used for gallbladder pain. Improves appetite and digestion. Is mild laxative.

Condurango: It stimulates the digestive functions, anorexia nervosa, nervous indigestion, and thus improves the general health. Modifies secretions of liver and digestive glands. Research reports cover stimulant for liver and pancreas.

Fel tauri: It liquefies the bile and acts as a purgative and chologogue. It increases the duodenal secretion, emulsifies fats and increases the peristaltic action of the intestines.  It is useful in jaundice due to obstruction, biliary calculi and disordered digestion. This agent in a one grain dose before each meal and retiring increases the functional activity of the hepatic cells as well as supplying bile to the intestinal tract.  It is also employed as an intestinal antiseptic.

Hydrocotyle: It is an excellent remedy in jaundice. It is an aperient and tonic. In herbal medicine, it is considered as anti-ageing plant.

Ipecacuanha acts on persistent nausea and vomiting, cutting pain around the naval, tenesmus and liver sore.

Podophyllum peltatum is indicated for distended abdomen, feeling of heat and emptiness, sensation of weakness or sinking, painful liver region, jaundice, portal engorgement, gastro-enteritis-like symptoms.

Quassia is considered as a gastric organ tonic. Quassia is indicated for pain above the liver and spleen, pressure and sharp pain in the liver, and cirrhosis of liver with ascites. It acts on dyspepsia, acidity, heartburn, gastralgia and regurgitation of food.

Source: Dr. R. Valavan, Common liver disorders and their homoeopathic management, Homoeopathy For All, Vol. 14 No. 05 (161) May 15 2013

Upgrading homoepathic education system

Need to upgrade the education system in sync with the changing trends

In every field there is always a need for change based on the contemporary needs, advancements, or changes. Those which transform to cope up with such changes will survive and others get eliminated or neglected. Current homoeopathic education system needs certain changes. It has to be more synchrony with some of the advancements and challenges. This article tries to highlight such changes needed in the homoeopathic education system.

Contemporary thinkers

There is no way for the students to get to know about the contemporary thinkers successful in the field like Jeremy Sherr, Jan Scholten, George Vithoulkas, A. U. Ramakrishnan, Robin Murphy, Rajan Sankaran, Praful Vijayakar, David Little, Luc De Schepper, etc. Each one has an interpretation of homoeopathic concepts and homoeopathic therapeutics. Students should be given an opportunity to the new ideas either good or bad. It will help them to apply them in their practice whenever need to enhance their clinical results. So far they have been in a well of old schools of thought, from which they seldom come during their course period.

Recent researches

There have been recent break-through researchers in homoeopathy. For example, a team from Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, has demonstrated the presence of nanoparticles of starting materials and their aggregates. Researches by French Nobelist Luc Montagnier, who had co-discovered HIV and won Nobel Prize for that, had described the capacity of some bacterial DNA sequences to induce electromagnetic waves at high aqueous dilutions. Such type of research findings are reported time to time which form the basis for further evolution of the system. Understanding such researches at student level will trigger the better research culture among homoeopaths in future.

Computer training

Computer has become essential part of life. Its application in homoeopathic practice is increasing. A decade ago it was used only for the repertorisation. But now it has become important for case record management, appointment management, communication through email, online consultation. But training on applied utilisation of computers is not part of the current BHMS syllabus. An hour per week training program will enhance the efficiency of the homoeopathic physicians in their practice.

Softwares and applications

There have been many softwares, applications, websites available for faster repertorisation, better patient management systems, to aid clinical research and to enhance overall clinical practice. Though if a student has computer knowledge, unless otherwise he/she has his own interest, there is no way in the curriculum structure to have the knowledge of such softwares and applications. It is for the policy makers and the CCH education committee to include them in the syllabus.

Focus on recent medical advancement

Our curriculum structure gives more stress on past than the present and future. History of medicine and philosophy, history of homoeopathy and philosophy are covered in the BHMS and MD curriculum. Genetic engineering, molecular biology, biotechnology are the allied advancing medical fields in recent times. In our curriculum, though focuses on basic anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, etc., these recent developments are omitted. Curriculum should include the basic understanding on these medical advancements. It can cover mutations due to abuse of antibiotics or cellular metabolism and steroids or even gene expression and homoeopathy.

Managing of emergency conditions

The recent regulation suggests the colleges to have a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with nearby hospitals to get the exposure in the management of diseases in emergency conditions. This welcome move should be implemented properly. Many colleges do even not have certain basic equipments like nebulizer. Such facilities are to be made in the IPD so that students and interns have experience in using minor management tools.

More surgical cases

Exposure to more surgical cases within the scope of homoeopathy will increase the confidence at student level. Apart from the above mentioned regulation of MoU, at least a part time surgeon should be appointed. He/she may not necessarily practice this, but will be able to discriminate a purely surgical case for surgeons from homoeopathically manageable cases.

BHMS as eligibility for various doctoral programmes

Many BHMS graduates have done and are doing higher studies in different fields like anatomy, microbiology, clinical embryology, etc. But neither BHMS nor MD (Hom) is eligible for many PhD programmes for which many life sciences courses are eligible. If CCH looks into this matter and manages to get this eligibility criteria changed, many homoeopaths would enter into such field of researches. It would be an opportunity for them to explore the homoeopathic research in such allied fields.

The above suggested changes are given by discussing with academicians and education experts. It is for the policy makers and implementing authorities to examine, decide and implement as needed.

Source: Dr. R. Valavan, Need to upgrade the education system in sync with the changing trends, Homoeopathy For All, Vol. 14 No. 06 (162) May 15 2013

What is this paddy like bitter grain advised for diabetes?

I have come across this paddy like bitter grain advised for diabetes. I tried to find out this Ayurveda/Siddha/Herbal medicines but could not find. Can anyone suggest?

Dr. R. Valavan

Smoking and alcohol de-addiction

An overview on the use of homoeopathic medicine in de-addiction

Anxiety and stress are unavoidable if one has to succeed and achieve a target. Many individuals have limitation both at physical and mental levels. Because of pressure of work and other factors they easily get stressed. They start with milder forms of stimulants like tea and coffee, then step up with cigarette/tobacco use or may be alcohol and drugs. The temporary benefit they achieve is not balanced by such individuals between the stimulatory effects and toxic and addictive nature of the product they use. With time the consumption goes on increasing to achieve the desired goal. Such people get trapped and manifest many symptoms of addiction, both acute and chronic, up to an extent of pathological derangements. At that particular stage, it is difficult to withdraw from the addiction.

There have been hundreds of substances causing addiction like caffeine in the form of tea and coffee, cocaine, cannabis, opium/morphine/heroin, nicotine and tobacco, alcohol, etc. Caffeine initially acts as a stimulant, but profuse and prolonged use of caffeine containing product may cause irritability, irregular heartbeats, psychomotor agitation, disorientation, delusions, hallucinations, mania, depression, etc. Dependents of cocaine usually have the symptoms of lethargy, psychosis, depression, akathisia, and fatal overdose. Though most of the psychoactive drugs can be categorized in to either stimulant, depressant, or hallucinogen, exceptionally cannabis has a mixture of all these properties. Effects of opium derivatives like morphine and heroin include depressed respiration, clouded mental functioning, nausea and vomiting, suppression of pain and spontaneous abortion in a short term, infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B and C, bacterial infections, abscesses, infection of heart lining and valves, collapsed veins, arthritis and other rheumatologic problems in long term.

Tobacco smoking and alcoholism are more common in India, killing thousands of people every year. They have many health consequences. They adversely affect stomach, intestines, liver, heart, nerves, pancreas, brain and other organs. In many cases they result in malnutrition, sexual problems, brain cell damage, cancer of digestive organs, high blood pressure, sleeping disorders, etc. Their psychological and psychiatric problems like lack of judgement and coordination, depression, poor memory and concentration, etc. affect the daily life drastically. This article mainly discusses about the effects of tobacco use and alcohol addiction and how homoeopathy can be helpful in de-addiction.

Smoking and other forms of tobacco use

There have been reports pouring in about how smoking and use of tobacco are affecting the health quotient of India. According to the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) report, India is the 4^th largest producer of tobacco. It ranks second in the world after China in cigarette and bidi production. There are 18.4 crore users in India with 4 crore cigarettes, 8 crore bidis and 6 crore using chewable forms of tobacco. About 45% of Indian men and 12% of women use some form of tobacco. Tobacco kills 90 persons per hour, 2200 per month and 800000 per year! By 2020 it is predicted that 13% of all deaths will be due to tobacco related diseases.¹ As per reports, approximately half of all cancers in men in India are tobacco related, while over 60% of those suffering from heart disease below the age of 40 years are smokers. India has one of the highest rates of oral cancer in the world, with 90% of the patients being tobacco chewers.² Cigarettes contain cancer causing toxic agents such as tar, etc. The combination of an addictive substance (nicotine) with mutagens has made tobacco the foremost human poison.³

Smoking adversely affects both mind and body. In fact every organ in the body is affected by smoking in one or the other form. Initial adverse symptoms include headache, disturbed appetite affecting weight, drowsiness or sleeping disturbances. Over a period, symptoms such as anxiety, tension, restlessness, frustration, impatience, difficulty in concentration, irritability and depression are felt.⁴

Alcohol dependence – a big concern

India is one of the major sufferers from alcohol dependence, like from tobacco use. As per report by Indian Alcohol Policy Alliance, the Indian arm of Global Alcohol Policy Alliance (GAPA) functioning with the aim to prevent alcohol related harm through evidence based policy intervention, advocacy and capacity building, there are over 6 crore alcohol users in India. Per capita consumption of alcohol increased by 106.7% over the 15-year period from 1970 to 1996. About 80% of alcohol consumption is in the form of hard liquor or distilled spirits which contains high concentration of alcohol. Hazardous drinking (alcohol consumption which confers the risk of physical and/or psychological harm⁵) is significantly associated with severe health problems  such as head injuries and hospitalizations.⁶

Can homoeopathy manage withdrawal symptoms effectively?

Yes, experts and institutes involving in de-addiction programs assure, based on their expertise for decades, that all the withdrawal symptoms are perfectly and effectively manageable by homoeopathic medication. In many de-addiction centers, it is being practically proved and practiced to help the patients to struggle with the withdrawal symptoms. It has been proved that a range of homoeopathic medicine is much more effective to the withdrawal suffering heroin addicts than the placebo method. On homoeopathic treatment all the withdrawal symptoms relieve within 5 days whereas on placebo method it continues up to 15 days. Apart from these, there are some other unique advantages of homoeopathic treatment.⁷

• It is non-narcotic and non-addictive. It does not cause any known physical dependence.

• Homoeopathic detoxification is rapid (generally completed within 14 days) compared to the month duration in other systems.

• The homoeopathic approach to detoxification is the most effective, rapid, safe, non-habit forming and cost-effective therapy. In the context of underdeveloped and developing countries this is the best way to handle withdrawal symptoms, hence it needs to be specially popularized.

Studies and reports about use of homoeopathy in drug dependence and its withdrawal symptoms

There have been studies and reports on the efficacy of homoeopathy in drug dependence and its withdrawal symptoms. For instance, a study⁸ conducted by Navjyoti Drug Demand Reduction Training Institute, with 169 patients addicted primarily to opium, its alkaloid derivatives either natural or synthetic (Morphine, Codeine, Heroine, Pethidine and other Narcotic etc.), has found that homoeopathic medicines have acted better in relieving the acute withdrawal symptoms than the placebo in each group. Symptoms like lachrymation, sneezing, yawning, abdominal pain, constipation, anxiety & irritability have particularly responded better to the medicine than placebo. The medicines used were Arsenicum album, Nux vomica, Rhustox, Pulsatilla, Ipecac and Chamomilla. The study revealed that out of these six medicines four medicines namely Arsenic album, Nux-vomica, Rhus tox, Pulsatilla appear more frequently indicated. Based on the findings of the study, Arsenicum album, Nux vomica, Rhus tox., and Pulsatilla were found to be effective.

Another study⁹ conducted by Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, at its Clinical Research Unit, Varanasi (U.P.) with 241 cases, 209 cases had showed improvement in withdrawal symptoms whereas 32 cases did not improve. Rhus toxicodendron (n=85) was found to be most effective medicine. Other medicines found effective were Avena sativa (n=43), Nux vomica (n=34), Arsenic album (n=26), Bryonia alba (n=8) and Chamomilla (n=7). Rhus toxicodendron, Arsenic album, Chamomilla were found to be effective in 10M potency, Bryonia alba & Nux vomica in 200C potency and Avena sativa in mother-tincture.

Specific drugs for tobacco and alcohol de-addiction

Daphne indica – a drug for tobacco de-addiction

This drug was proved and introduced by Bute. Its homoeopathic tincture is made from the bark.¹⁰ It is covered by Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia of India.¹¹ Literatures indicate it usefulness in craving for tobacco, especially in cases trying for cessation of smoking tobacco. It is a common ingredient in many preparations in the market. Use of Daphne indica 1x is specific for de-addiction helping elimination of associated symptoms. Daphne indica acts on the tissues, muscles, bones and skin. It helps elimination of fetid breath, offensive urine and sweat. Withdrawal symptoms cover pains which are erratic and electric-like, sudden, lightning jerks in different parts of the body.^12-17 A report submitted to the University of Johannesburg has found that a homoeopathic anti-smoking complex containing Daphne indica with 30 participants is effective in the treatment of smoking cessation.¹⁸

Quercus robur – a drug for alcohol de-addiction

Quercus robur is a drug prepared from the common oak.¹⁰ It was introduced to homoeopathic practice by Burnett.^12,19 Dr. Schroyens also mentions this for alcoholism.¹⁵ Cooper had observed it useful in specific sensations like "felt as if in a vice; dared not move for fear of a fit of apoplexy, an attack of giddiness”, and "deafness with noises in the head".¹² It is officially covered by Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia of United States²⁰ and mentioned in German Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia²¹.

Different species of Quercus but containing similar phytochemicals have been used in Indian medicine for symptoms like diarrhoea, dysentery, gastric catarrh, swelling of spleen and other alcoholic symptoms.²² Its chief actions are on alcoholism, constipation, diarrhoea, giddiness, gout, intermitting fever, dropsy (splenic), leucocythaemia splenica and other affections of spleen.^{10,12,13,15,19,23} It specifically cures symptoms of depressive nervousness, taciturn state (habitually reserved and uncommunicative), drunken feeling in head, gnawing at pit of stomach, craving for alcohol, pain in spleen and diarrhoea.²³ Quercus diminishes the craving for alcohol and antidotes the alcoholic state, and giddiness with spleen trouble.¹²

Other drugs useful for de-addiction with their indications^12-17

Arsenicum album

Hallucinations as result of substance addiction like visions of ghosts, etc. are covered. Indicated in great weakness and diseases from overuse of alcohol. Suicidal tendency and constant annoying by bugs and vermin are most marked.

Avena sativa

It has a selective action on brain and nervous system. Most of the mental symptoms from alcohol and tobacco use are covered. This is a specific remedy for de-addiction. It is a sedative and tonic par excellence for depletion. It is good for loss of initiative and will.

Bryonia alba

Often indicated for exceedingly irritable; everything puts him out of humor. Delirium is notable with symptoms like ‘wants to go home’. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms like vertigo, nausea, faintness on rising, confusion, bursting, splitting headache, as if everything would be pressed out are also covered.

Cannabis Indica

It is most useful in acute alcoholism. Symptoms like violence, talkativeness and active mind are covered. Like Arsenicum album, delusions and hallucinations related to exaggerated subjects, time, space, etc. are also relieved over a period. Flushed face, dilated pupils, easy perspiration are indicated.

Chamomilla

One of the important drugs for de-addiction, it is more suited to irritable and restless people. Whining restlessness. Impatient, intolerant of being spoken to or interrupted; extremely sensitive to every pain; always complaining. Aftereffects of anger and vexation. Mental calmness contraindicates this drug.

Ipecacuanha

In alcoholics, stomach complaints are predominant. Irritable; holds everything in contempt. Full of desires, for what they know not. Constant nausea and vomiting, with pale, twitching of face. Vomits food, bile, blood, mucus. Stomach sometimes feels relaxed, as if hanging down.

Nux vomica

It is one of the important anti-alcoholic remedies. Alcoholic symptoms like tremor, other nervous affections, headache, and bad taste are covered. It also corresponds to delirium tremens, where every little noise frightens and the victim finds no rest any place, springs up at night and has frightful visions. The tremor is marked with ugliness and irritability and gastric disturbance.

Pulsatilla

Disposition and mental state are the chief guiding symptoms to the selection of Pulsatilla. Weeping tendency. Timid, irresolute. Fears in evening to be alone, dark, ghost. Likes sympathy. Easily discouraged. Morbid dread of the opposite sex. Highly emotional.

Opium

Literature indicates it suites “old sinners” who have had delirium tremens over and over again. There is a constant expression of fright or terror. Hallucinations like visions of animals, ghosts, etc. are covered. Sleep is disturbed with stertorous breathing. Also indicated in cases simulating apoplexy.

Rhus toxicodendron

Thoughts of suicide is predominent. Extreme restlessness, with continued change of position is marked. Delirium, with fear of being poisoned. Sensorium becomes cloudy. Great apprehension at night, cannot remain in bed.

References

1. Raj Kumar, Suraj Prakash, Alka Singh Khushwah, Harsh Kumar, Smoking cessation-control measures, 2005, Volume 22, Issue 2, Page : 68-73
2. Nyo Nyo Kyaing, Regional Situation Analysis of Women and Tobacco in South-East Asia, World Health Organization – Regional Office for South-East Asia. Available at: http://www.searo.who.int/LinkFiles/NMH_regSituationAnalysis.pdf.
3. Tobacco Control Foundation of India, Tobacco facts. Available at: http://tobaccoindia.org/Tobacco-Facts.html.
4. David Zieve, David C. Dugdale, Nicotine addiction and withdrawal, Medline Plus Medical Encyclopaedia, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000944.htm. Retrieved on: 23 July 2012.
5. Thomas F. Babor, John C. Higgins-Biddle, BRIEF INTERVENTION - For Hazardous and Harmful Drinking, A Manual for Use in Primary Care, World Health Organization, Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence. Available at: http://whqlibdoc.who.int/hq/2001/who_msd_msb_01.6b.pdf.
6. Alcohol Related Harm in India – a fact sheet, Indian Alcohol Policy Alliance, V15, Green Park Extn., New Delhi 110 016. Available at: http://www.addictionindia.org/images-ttkh/alcohol-related-harm-in-india-a-fact-sheet.pdf.
7. Training and Documentation Unit, Navjyoti Delhi Police Foundation, Drug Abuse - Frequently Asked Question. Available at: http://www.navjyoti.org.in/publication/Drug%20Abuse%20-%20FAQ.pdf
8. Ajay Grover, Bharat Bhushan & Rajesh Goel, Double blind placebo controlled trial of Homoeopathic medicines in the management of withdrawal symptoms in Opium addicts and its alkaloid derivatives-dependents, Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy, Vol. 3, No. 1, January-March 2009
9. Yogindra Rai, Withdrawal symptoms of drug abuse, Clinical Research Studies, Series-l. Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, 2008; 125-129.
10. P. N. Varma, Indu Vaid, Encyclopaedia of Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia, Updated edition 2007, B. Jain Publishers, New Delhi.
11. Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
12. J. H. Clarcke, Dictionary of Practical Materia Medica, Reprint Edition 1992, B. Jain Publishers, New Delhi.
13. W. Boericke, New Manual of Homoeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory [with Relationship of Remedies], Second Re-Augmented & Revised Edition Based on Ninth Edition, Reprint Edition 2002, B. Jain Publishers, New Delhi.
14. J. T. Kent, Repertory of the Homoeopathic Materia Medica and a Word Index, Reprint Edition 1995, B. Jain Publishers, New Delhi.
15. F. Schroyens, Synthesis Treasure Edition 2009V, RadarOpus 1.33, Archibel S.A. Rue Fontaine St. Pierre 1E, Zoning Industriel de la Fagne, 5330 Assesse, Belgium.
16. R. Murphy, Homeopathic Remedy Guide, RadarOpus 1.33, Archibel S.A. Rue Fontaine St. Pierre 1E, Zoning Industriel de la Fagne, 5330 Assesse, Belgium.
17. R. Murphy, Repertory Version 3, RadarOpus 1.33, Archibel S.A. Rue Fontaine St. Pierre 1E, Zoning Industriel de la Fagne, 5330 Assesse, Belgium.
18. Grové, Yolani, Efficacy of Anti Smoking Complex in nicotine withdrawal and smoking cessation. Thesis/dissertation submitted to Department of Homoeopathy, University of Johannesburg. Available from: https://ujdigispace.uj.ac.za/handle/10210/2349.
19. J. C. Burnet, Diseases of Spleen, RadarOpus 1.33, Archibel S.A. Rue Fontaine St. Pierre 1E, Zoning Industriel de la Fagne, 5330 Assesse, Belgium.
20. Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States, Southeastern, PA, Homeopathic Pharmacopeia Convention of the United States (available by subscription at http://www.hpus.com/)
21. German Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia (GHP) Vols 1 and 2. Stuttgart, Medpharm Scientific Publishers, 2006.
22. K. M. Nadkarni, Indian Materia Medica, Edited by A. K. Nandkarni, Volume 1, Bombay Popular Prakashan, Mumbai – 34
23. C. Richardson-Boedler, Psychic causes of Illness: Applying Homeopathy and Bach flowers therapy to Psychosomatic illness, Part Two : Keynote Materia Medica of the Bach Remedies, under ‘Homeopathic indications for Quercus robur’, RadarOpus 1.33, Archibel S.A. Rue Fontaine St. Pierre 1E, Zoning Industriel de la Fagne, 5330 Assesse, Belgium.

Source: Dr. R. Valavan, An overview on the use of homoeopathic medicine in de-addiction, Homoeopathy for All, February 2013

From Chidambaram to Cambridge: A life in science

I enjoyed the reading of autobiography of Venkatraman Ramakrishnan. You may well recall him if I say the 2009 Chemistry Laureate. The Hindu has published the excerpts from the lengthy biography which I read.

This is the intro given by The Hindu.
In this charmingly narrated autobiographical essay written for the Nobel Foundation, 2009 Chemistry Laureate Venkatraman Ramakrishnan recalls his Indian roots, the shaping role of his exceptional parents and teachers, the twists and turns of his scientific career, how he staked all on "one risky project" when, in 1999, he took a hefty salary cut and moved to the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, U.K. Reasoning that "the structure of the ribosome was the most important goal in my field," he decided to focus entirely on the 30S subunit. The rest, including the Nobel and the Padma Vibhushan, is history.

The full text is here.

From Chidambaram to Cambridge: A life in science

Homoeopathic Ultra Dilutions - Their Structure And Functions

INTRODUCTION

Homoeopathic medicine, since late 18^th century has grown as giant tree thronged by humanity as arboreal aves for fruits of medicinal cure, it has grown like large Banyan providing shelter of solace and cure to patients all through its history.  The tree of Homoeopathy has also been hit by stones, unmindful of its providing cure and medicines for human sufferings, in criticising the system on its operational procedures.

           

Homoeopathic Medications, their structure and medicinal actions in respect with their causes and effects and related studies are widely being investigated yet it needs to be proceeded further, towards the advancement of this science.

           

Various works on the ultra dilutions have been done, but scientific advancements of these studies need to be carried further in terms of understandable tools. The present scenario requires a linear advancement in these studies.  The criticisms on the functions and structure beyond 10-24 homoeopathic dilutions have surfaced without understanding the mechanism of biological response in dilution 10^-24 and above in humans, animals, plants and microbes. As a result homoeopathic medications in the cure of diseases are expanding and are on a sharper increase. The clinical evidences of Homoeopathic actions are being aided with laboratorical studies and proofs by research workers but they needed to be advanced.

           

The study:

The present article outlines certain areas of study on Homoeopathic dilutions that requires the scientific understanding on actions of the drugs and nessiciates further studies on these lines.  It is rather worrying as most of the Homoeopathic practitioners have consoled themselves in clinical actions of Homoeopathic drugs but not on the functional activities of the dilutions they prescribe. Perhaps they have left these for converged investigations by others.

           

Time has ripen and every fellow Homoeopath needs to have a determined conviction in rising himself towards the cause, action and experimental proving of the drug action taking help of available pathological tools.  The philosophical judgements are to be recorded with solid evidences of action on a scientific scale, and various scientific studies are awaiting for us to study, think and prove.

           

Many Homoeopaths around the world have stepped into this area, but a flurry of action requires to be done.  I have listed some of these steps on laboratory experiments on Homoeopathic medicines, which, require a lot of young, inquisitive, enquiring and acting Homoeopathic brain to work upon and record their findings for future research.

Studies on atomic wavelength of homoeopathic dilutions

The studies of French engineer Monsieur Louis Tourrenna on radioactive methods in comparing the wavelength of the atomic power of Radium, to that of Homoeopathic dilutions are noteworthy.  He noticed, the increase in potencies, increases the atomic length of their respective radioactive wave pattern created, when compared to that of Radium¹.

           

This comparative study can be further worked upon and a scale of wavelength of various potencies can be recorded for further studies and inferences.

Study of Copper Chloride crystal pattern

It has been proved that the symptomatic addition of Homoeopathic dilutions on to a patients serum with copper chloride solution, has yielded varied crystallization patterns^{1, 2}.  This study can be extended to every clinical symptomatic treatment of homoeopathic dilutions with the comparison of its crystallization pattern and its clinical action.  The results can be recorded as the action of homoeopathic drugs in terms of science.

Understanding the structure of the Hydrogen bonds of Homoeopathic Dilutions

The studies by Louis Rey, 2003 has revealed the difference of the Hydrogen bonds of that of pure water to the Hydrogen bond structure of Homoeopathic dilutions of salt solutions by using thermo-luminescence^3,4.  This study can be further extended to various dilutions and their clinical behaviour be compared between various structures obtained.  A comparative and contrasting studies may throw light on the relationship to Hydrogen bonds of dilutions and their clinical behaviour as homoeopathic dilutions.

Study of Thyroxin in tadpoles

The study of Thyroxin 30x in tadpoles, has showed the inhibition of growth of tadpoles. Also, when a glass bottle containing Homoeopathic dilution of Thyroxin hormone (30x) is suspended in the tank of tadpoles, without any contact with the water, the growth of tadpoles was inhibited⁵.  The research was replicated at several laboratories with consistency in results.

The implications of this study are significant, in showing that Homoeopathic medicines have some type of radiational effect through glass. This radiational effect may be tested with various homoeopathic medicines and the results recorded for further studies.

Effect of Mercuric Chloride dilutions on tissue culture

The effect of Mercuric Chloride, at dilutions of 0.9 x 10^-25M to 0.9x10^-17M on the proliferation of mouse lymphoblastic cell strains, identifying their culture, was studied by Van Mansvelt and Amons at the University of Amsterdam¹.

           

The dilutions were added to a tissue culture medium, and the mixture was used in the incubation experiments.  The results, by statistical methods showed the Mercuric Chloride dilutions were definitely toxic, and they could also prove that further dilutions of Mercuric Chloride on the study does not produce a flat dose-effect curve, as in the case of other incubation studies. 

           

Though the findings of the study were against the natural principles of dilutions on tissue medium, the results were a break through on homoeopathic dilutions in establishing Arndt - Schultz law.  Hence, the same tissue culture incubation method may be extended for various dilutions and the studies be recorded on the homoeopathic actions of such dilutions in proving the law of Arndt-Schultz.

             

Since more than one model and theory are required to explain the action of medicines, perhaps laboratorical experiments can be devised to homoeopathic students for their PG and UG research dissertations, to serve dual function of improving their own conviction and educating other about the action of homoeopathic medicines.

References

1. Sankaran. P “Elements of Homoeopathy”, Vol II, edited by Rajan Sankaran, Homoeopathic Medical Publishers, Mumbai, 1996.

2. Peiffer. E. “Sensitive Crystallization Processes”, Anthroposophic press, New York,   1975.

3. Rey Louis, “Thermoluminescence of Ultra – High Dilutions of  Lithium Chloride and Sodium Chloride”, Physica A, 2003; 323: 67-74. Available also in the web page: www.vhan.nl/documents/Rey.thermoluminescence.pdf.

4. Saxena. R. K., Upadhyay. R.P.,  Gupta. V. K., “Homoeopathy: Science on the Brink of Revolution”, CCRH Quarterly Bulletin, 2004; 26: 22-25.

5. Endler. P.C., Pongratz. W., Smith. C.W. et al., “Non-Molecular Information Transfer From Thyroxine to Frogs”, available in the web page: www.giriweb.com/endler.htm.