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Büttner K, Oelkers J, Burfeind O, Krieter J, Czycholl I. Randomised Controlled Trial on Prophylaxis of Mastitis-Metritis-Agalactia Syndrome in Swine using Caulophyllum Logoplex and Lachesis Logoplex. HOMEOPATHY 2024; 113:80-85. [PMID: 37652040 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1770725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mastitis-metritis-agalactia (MMA) syndrome occurs in the first days post-partum and causes piglet losses mainly due to malnutrition. One possibility for prophylaxis of MMA is via homeopathy. In this veterinary study, the effectiveness of a prophylactic administration of homeopathic remedies for the prevention of the occurrence of MMA in swine was evaluated. METHODS In a randomised and blinded study, 60 sows were examined. Sows were randomly distributed in two groups: the experimental group (CL/LL) received a prophylactic administration of the complex homeopathic remedies Caulophyllum Logoplex and Lachesis Logoplex, and the placebo group was administered a sodium chloride (NaCl) solution in the same injection scheme as the experimental group. Clinical signs of MMA, behavioural changes, as well as production parameters, were recorded beginning with the day of farrowing until 5 days post-partum. RESULTS The treatment group showed no significant effect on the occurrence of MMA in sows (CL/LL: 56.67% MMA positive sows; NaCl: 53.53% MMA positive sows). Treatment group had also no significant effect on health parameters (vaginal discharge, raised rectal temperature, shortage of milk) or behavioural parameters (impaired feeding behaviour and impaired general condition). For the production parameter average weight gain, statistically significant effects in the treatment group were detected. CONCLUSIONS Prophylaxis with the homeopathic remedies Caulophyllum Logoplex and Lachesis Logoplex showed neither an improvement in MMA prevention nor an improvement in health parameters or behavioural traits in the present herd of sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Büttner
- Unit for Biomathematics and Data Processing, Justus-Liebig-University, Gießen, Germany
| | - Janna Oelkers
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Onno Burfeind
- Chamber of Agriculture of Schleswig-Holstein, Blekendorf, Germany
| | - Joachim Krieter
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Irena Czycholl
- Department for Animal Welfare and Disease Control, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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Pacheco-Merelo G, Montes-Zambrano V, Alvarado-Álvarez H, Angulo-Cubillán F, Fonseca-Restrepo C. Eficacia de tratamientos homeopáticos frente a nematodos gastrointestinales en bovinos del trópico bajo ecuatoriano. REVISTA CIENTÍFICA DE LA FACULTAD DE CIENCIAS VETERINARIAS 2023. [DOI: 10.52973/rcfcv-e33205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Con el objetivo de evaluar la eficacia de tratamientos homeopáticos en el control de nematodosis gastrointestinal en bovinos, a través del porcentaje de reducción (%RH) de huevos por gramo de heces (HPG), se realizó una investigación con 60 bovinos mestizos, los cuales se ajustaron según su edad y distribuyeron en cinco tratamientos (T), tres con remedios homeopáticos (Arsenicum album, Artemisia cina y Sulphur), un grupo alopático (Fenbendazol 10 %) y otro control, siendo administrados por vía oral, a una dosis de 10 mL·animal-1·día-1, en los T homeopáticos al grupo respectivo, y al control agua destilada por cinco días consecutivos; al T alopático se le suministró una única dosis de 5 mg·kg-1 de peso vivo. La eficacia fue calculada a través del %RH, comparado con el grupo control. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que el T alopático, obtuvo un %RH de 88,5 % en la cuarta semana, pero con disminución del %RH desde la séptima a la novena semana con 42,68 y 5,32 %, respectivamente. En el caso de los remedios homeopáticos, el que presentó mejor eficacia fue A. cina con una reducción del 93,62 % en la novena semana del estudio; en el caso de sulphur 84,57 % y A. album, mostró un %RH hasta 49,96 %. Remedios homeopáticos como A. cina y sulphur mostraron eficacia frente a nematodos gastrointestinales en bovinos, siendo unas alternativas a productos alopáticos como Fenbendazol 10 %, por su mayor %RH a través del ensayo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Pacheco-Merelo
- Universidad Técnica de Manabí, Estudiante maestría en Medicina Veterinaria. Manabí, Ecuador - Universidad Técnica de Babahoyo, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Carrera Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia. Los Ríos, Ecuador
| | - Víctor Montes-Zambrano
- Universidad Técnica de Manabí, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Departamento de Veterinaria. Manabí, Ecuador
| | - Hugo Alvarado-Álvarez
- Universidad Técnica de Babahoyo, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Carrera Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia. Los Ríos, Ecuador
| | - Francisco Angulo-Cubillán
- Universidad UTE, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Veterinarias. Santo Domingo, Ecuador - Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Departamento de Sanidad Animal. Zulia, Venezuela
| | - Carolina Fonseca-Restrepo
- Universidad Técnica de Manabí, Facultad de Ciencias Zootécnicas, Departamento de Producción Animal. Manabí, Ecuador
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TRAMONTANA A, NICOLAI E, SORGE R, GAZIANO R, MARINO D, MONTELEONE G, MIANGOLARRA PAGE JC, ROSATO N. Dynamization-induced nanosolutes (DINS) in ultra-dilute solutions. Analysis on homeopathic dilute capsules below and over the Avogadro's number. GAZZETTA MEDICA ITALIANA ARCHIVIO PER LE SCIENZE MEDICHE 2022. [DOI: 10.23736/s0393-3660.21.04735-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Maharramova S, Veliyeva M, Amirova M, Azizova U, Majidova U, Abıyev H, Dashdamirova G, Mammadova F. Surrounding Plants as Reliable Immune Boosters. Health (London) 2022. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2022.1411078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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5
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Suri M, Katnoria S, Walter NS, Manchanda RK, Khurana A, Nayak D, Bagai U, Kaur S. Efficacy of Chininum Sulphuricum 30C against Malaria: An in vitro and in vivo Study. Complement Med Res 2021; 29:43-52. [PMID: 34315160 DOI: 10.1159/000517509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New effective, economical and safe antimalarial drugs are urgently needed due to the development of multi-drug-resistant strains of the parasite. Homeopathy uses ultra-diluted doses of various substances to stimulate autoregulatory and self-healing processes to cure various ailments. The aim of the study was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo antimalarial efficacy of a homeopathic drug, Chininum sulphuricum 30C. METHODS In vitro antiplasmodial activity was screened against the P. falciparum chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) strain, and cell viability was assessed against normal human dermal fibroblasts and HepG2 cells. Suppressive, preventive and curative studies were carried out against P. berghei-infected mice in vivo. RESULTS Chininum sulphuricum (30C) revealed good antiplasmodial activity in vitro, with 92.79 ± 6.93% inhibition against the 3D7 strain. The cell viability was 83.6 ± 0.6% against normal human dermal fibroblasts and 95.22 ± 5.1% against HepG2 cells. It also exhibited suppressive efficacy with 95.56% chemosuppression on day 7 with no mortality throughout the follow-up period of 28 days. It also showed preventive activity against the disease. Drug treatment was also safe to the liver and kidney function of the host as evidenced by biochemical studies. CONCLUSION Chininum sulphuricum 30C exhibited considerable antimalarial activity along with safety to the liver and kidney function of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansi Suri
- Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sapna Katnoria
- Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Neha Sylvia Walter
- Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Raj Kumar Manchanda
- Central Council for Research in Homeopathy, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, New Delhi, India
| | - Anil Khurana
- Central Council for Research in Homeopathy, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, New Delhi, India
| | - Debadatta Nayak
- Central Council for Research in Homeopathy, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, New Delhi, India
| | - Upma Bagai
- Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sukhbir Kaur
- Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
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Low-dose Drosera rotundifolia induces gene expression changes in 16HBE human bronchial epithelial cells. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2356. [PMID: 33504888 PMCID: PMC7840928 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81843-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Drosera rotundifolia has been traditionally used for the treatment of respiratory diseases in phytotherapy and homeopathy. The mechanisms of action recognized so far are linked to the known effects of specific components, such as flavonoids, but are not completely understood. In this study, the biological functions of D. rotundifolia were explored in vitro following the treatment of bronchial epithelial cells, which are the potential targets of the pharmacological effects of the herbal medicine. To do so, the whole plant ethanolic extract was 1000-fold diluted in water (D. rotundifolia 3×) and added to a 16HBE human cell line culture for 3 h or 6 h. The effects on gene expression of the treatments and corresponding controls were then investigated by RNA sequencing. The differentially expressed genes were validated through RT-qPCR, and the enriched biological functions involved in the effects of treatment were investigated. D. rotundifolia 3× did not impair cell viability and was shown to be a stimulant of cell functions by regulating the expression of dozens of genes after 3 h, and the effects were amplified after 6 h of treatment. The main differentially expressed genes encoded ligands of epithelial growth factor receptor, proteins involved in xenobiotic detoxification and cytokines, suggesting that D. rotundifolia 3× could stimulate self-repair systems, which are impaired in airway diseases. Furthermore, D. rotundifolia 3× acts on a complex and multifaceted set of genes and may potentially affect different layers of the bronchial mucosa.
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Chirumbolo S, Bjørklund G. Vaccination is fundamental but can it escape from a more insightful and critical information about its action? ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2017; 55:8-13. [PMID: 28800561 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2017.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy; Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy; Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway
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Bellavite P, Signorini A, Marzotto M, Moratti E, Bonafini C, Olioso D. Cell sensitivity, non-linearity and inverse effects. HOMEOPATHY 2015; 104:139-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2015.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Revised: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Mathie RT, Frye J, Fisher P. Homeopathic Oscillococcinum® for preventing and treating influenza and influenza-like illness. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015; 1:CD001957. [PMID: 25629583 PMCID: PMC6726585 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001957.pub6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza is a highly infectious viral disease that is particularly common in the winter months. Oscillococcinum® is a patented homeopathic medicine that is made from a 1% solution of wild duck heart and liver extract, which is then serially diluted 200 times with water and alcohol. OBJECTIVES To determine whether homeopathic Oscillococcinum® is more effective than placebo in the prevention and/or treatment of influenza and influenza-like illness in adults or children. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL (2014, Issue 8), MEDLINE (1966 to August week 4, 2014), MEDLINE In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations (4 September 2014), AMED (2006 to September 2014), Web of Science (1985 to September 2014), LILACS (1985 to September 2014) and EMBASE (1980 to September 2014). We contacted the manufacturers of Oscillococcinum® for information on further trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised, placebo-controlled trials of Oscillococcinum® in the prevention and/or treatment of influenza and influenza-like illness in adults or children. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Three review authors independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias in the eligible trials. MAIN RESULTS No new trials were included in this 2014 update. We included six studies: two prophylaxis trials (327 young to middle-aged adults in Russia) and four treatment trials (1196 teenagers and adults in France and Germany). The overall standard of trial reporting was poor and hence many important methodological aspects of the trials had unclear risk of bias. There was no statistically significant difference between the effects of Oscillococcinum® and placebo in the prevention of influenza-like illness: risk ratio (RR) 0.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.17 to 1.34, P value = 0.16. Two treatment trials (judged as 'low quality') reported sufficient information to allow full data extraction: 48 hours after commencing treatment, there was an absolute risk reduction of 7.7% in the frequency of symptom relief with Oscillococcinum® compared with that of placebo (risk difference (RD) 0.077, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.12); the RR was 1.86 (95% CI 1.27 to 2.73; P value = 0.001). A significant but lesser effect was observed at three days (RR 1.27, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.56; P value = 0.03), and no significant difference between the groups was noted at four days (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.27; P value = 0.10) or at five days (RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.16; P value = 0.25). One of the six studies reported one patient who suffered an adverse effect (headache) from taking Oscillococcinum®. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is insufficient good evidence to enable robust conclusions to be made about Oscillococcinum® in the prevention or treatment of influenza and influenza-like illness. Our findings do not rule out the possibility that Oscillococcinum® could have a clinically useful treatment effect but, given the low quality of the eligible studies, the evidence is not compelling. There was no evidence of clinically important harms due to Oscillococcinum®.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joyce Frye
- Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia Convention of the United StatesPharmacopoeia Revision CommitteeBaltimoreMarylandUSAMD 21201
| | - Peter Fisher
- Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine60 Great Ormond StreetLondonUKWC1N 3HR
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Bellavite P. Homeopathy and integrative medicine: keeping an open mind. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 13:1-6. [PMID: 25815160 PMCID: PMC4363517 DOI: 10.1007/s12682-014-0198-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Some physicians have incorporated some forms of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) or related medicinal products in their clinical practices, suggesting that an unconventional treatment approach might be seen as an integration rather than as an alternative to standard medical practice. Among the various CAMs, homeopathy enjoys growing popularity with the lay population, but it is not acknowledged by academia or included in medical guidelines. The major problem is to establish the effectiveness of this clinical approach using the strict criteria of evidence-based medicine. This issue of the Journal of Medicine and the Person collects contributions from some of the most prestigious centers and research groups working in the field of homeopathy and integrative medicine. These contributions are not specialized information but are of general interest, focusing on this discipline as one of the emerging fields of personalized medical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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11
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Gaertner K, Müllner M, Friehs H, Schuster E, Marosi C, Muchitsch I, Frass M, Kaye AD. Additive homeopathy in cancer patients: Retrospective survival data from a homeopathic outpatient unit at the Medical University of Vienna. Complement Ther Med 2014; 22:320-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2013.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2013] [Revised: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 12/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Khuda-Bukhsh AR. Current trends in high dilution research with particular reference to gene regulatory hypothesis. THE NUCLEUS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s13237-014-0105-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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Bellavite P, Marzotto M, Conforti A. Scientific criticism in homoeopathy: need to test more than disputes. Int J Clin Pract 2014; 68:403-4. [PMID: 24588949 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.12349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- P Bellavite
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
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Bellavite P, Marzotto M, Olioso D, Moratti E, Conforti A. High-dilution effects revisited. 2. Pharmacodynamic mechanisms. HOMEOPATHY 2014; 103:22-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2013.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Bellavite P, Olioso D, Marzotto M, Moratti E, Conforti A. A dynamic network model of the similia principle. Complement Ther Med 2013; 21:750-61. [PMID: 24280484 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2013.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Revised: 08/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of drugs in high dilutions and the principle of similarity (or "similia") are two basic tenets of homeopathy. However, the plausibility of both is a subject of debate. Although several models have been proposed to explain the similia principle, it can be best understood and appreciated in the framework of complexity science and dynamic systems theory. This work applies a five-node Boolean network to show how self-organization and adaptation are relevant to rationalizing this traditional medical principle. Simulating the trajectories and attractors of the network system in the energy state-space provides a rudimentary and qualitative illustration of how targeted external perturbations can have pathological effects, leading to permanent, self-sustaining alterations. Similarly, changes that conversely enable the system to find its way back to the original state can induce therapeutic effects, by causing specific shifts in attractors when suitable conditions are satisfied. Extrapolating these mechanisms to homeopathy, we can envisage how major changes in the evolution of homeodynamic systems (and, eventually, healing of the entire body) can be achieved through carefully selected remedies that reproduce the whole symptom pattern of the ill state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy.
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Testing the nanoparticle-allostatic cross-adaptation-sensitization model for homeopathic remedy effects. HOMEOPATHY 2013; 102:66-81. [PMID: 23290882 DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2012.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2012] [Revised: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Key concepts of the Nanoparticle-Allostatic Cross-Adaptation-Sensitization (NPCAS) Model for the action of homeopathic remedies in living systems include source nanoparticles as low level environmental stressors, heterotypic hormesis, cross-adaptation, allostasis (stress response network), time-dependent sensitization with endogenous amplification and bidirectional change, and self-organizing complex adaptive systems. The model accommodates the requirement for measurable physical agents in the remedy (source nanoparticles and/or source adsorbed to silica nanoparticles). Hormetic adaptive responses in the organism, triggered by nanoparticles; bipolar, metaplastic change, dependent on the history of the organism. Clinical matching of the patient's symptom picture, including modalities, to the symptom pattern that the source material can cause (cross-adaptation and cross-sensitization). Evidence for nanoparticle-related quantum macro-entanglement in homeopathic pathogenetic trials. This paper examines research implications of the model, discussing the following hypotheses: Variability in nanoparticle size, morphology, and aggregation affects remedy properties and reproducibility of findings. Homeopathic remedies modulate adaptive allostatic responses, with multiple dynamic short- and long-term effects. Simillimum remedy nanoparticles, as novel mild stressors corresponding to the organism's dysfunction initiate time-dependent cross-sensitization, reversing the direction of dysfunctional reactivity to environmental stressors. The NPCAS model suggests a way forward for systematic research on homeopathy. The central proposition is that homeopathic treatment is a form of nanomedicine acting by modulation of endogenous adaptation and metaplastic amplification processes in the organism to enhance long-term systemic resilience and health.
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Bell IR, Schwartz GE, Boyer NN, Koithan M, Brooks AJ. Advances in Integrative Nanomedicine for Improving Infectious Disease Treatment in Public Health. Eur J Integr Med 2013; 5:126-140. [PMID: 23795222 PMCID: PMC3685499 DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2012.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infectious diseases present public health challenges worldwide. An emerging integrative approach to treating infectious diseases is using nanoparticle (NP) forms of traditional and alternative medicines. Advantages of nanomedicine delivery methods include better disease targeting, especially for intracellular pathogens, ability to cross membranes and enter cells, longer duration drug action, reduced side effects, and cost savings from lower doses. METHODS We searched Pubmed articles in English with keywords related to nanoparticles and nanomedicine. Nanotechnology terms were also combined with keywords for drug delivery, infectious diseases, herbs, antioxidants, homeopathy, and adaptation. RESULTS NPs are very small forms of material substances, measuring 1-100 nanometers along at least one dimension. Compared with bulk forms, NPs' large ratio of surface-area-to-volume confers increased reactivity and adsorptive capacity, with unique electromagnetic, chemical, biological, and quantum properties. Nanotechnology uses natural botanical agents for green manufacturing of less toxic NPs. DISCUSSION Nanoparticle herbs and nutriceuticals can treat infections via improved bioavailability and antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. Recent studies demonstrate that homeopathic medicines may contain source and/or silica nanoparticles because of their traditional manufacturing processes. Homeopathy, as a form of nanomedicine, has a promising history of treating epidemic infectious diseases, including malaria, leptospirosis and HIV/AIDS, in addition to acute upper respiratory infections. Adaptive changes in the host's complex networks underlie effects. CONCLUSIONS Nanomedicine is integrative, blending modern technology with natural products to reduce toxicity and support immune function. Nanomedicine using traditional agents from alternative systems of medicine can facilitate progress in integrative public health approaches to infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris R. Bell
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Psychology, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- College of Nursing, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Medicine (Integrative Medicine), the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ USA
| | - Gary E. Schwartz
- Department of Psychiatry, the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Psychology, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Medicine (Integrative Medicine), the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Mary Koithan
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
- College of Nursing, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Medicine (Integrative Medicine), the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Audrey J. Brooks
- Department of Psychology, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Medicine (Integrative Medicine), the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Immunomodulation of Homeopathic Thymulin 5CH in a BCG-Induced Granuloma Model. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:686018. [PMID: 23431344 PMCID: PMC3569925 DOI: 10.1155/2013/686018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2012] [Revised: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 12/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study analyzed the immune modulation mechanisms of thymulin 5CH in a granuloma experimental model. Male adult Balb/c mice were inoculated with BCG into the footpad to induce granuloma, which was quantitatively evaluated. The phenotypic characterization of phagocyte, T- and B-lymphocyte populations in the peritoneum, and local lymph node was done by flow cytometry. During all experimental periods, thymulin 5CH and vehicle (control) were given ad libitum to mice, diluted into the drinking water (1.6 × 10−17 M). After 7 days from inoculation, thymulin-treated mice presented reduction in the number of epithelioid cytokeratine-positive cells (P = 0.0001) in the lesion, in relation to young phagocytes. After 21 days, the differentiation of B1 peritoneal stem cells into phagocytes reached the peak, being higher in thymulin-treated mice (P = 0.0001). Simultaneously, the score of infected phagocytes in the lesion decreased (P = 0.001), and the number of B1-derived phagocytes, CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes in the local lymph node increased in relation to control (P = 0.0001). No difference was seen on the CD25+ Treg cells. The results show that thymulin 5CH treatment is able to improve the granuloma inflammatory process and the infection remission, by modulating local and systemic phagocyte differentiation.
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Shahabi S, Kasariyans A, Noorbakhsh F. Like cures like: A neuroimmunological model based on electromagnetic resonance. Electromagn Biol Med 2013; 32:508-26. [DOI: 10.3109/15368378.2012.743911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Mathie RT, Frye J, Fisher P. Homeopathic Oscillococcinum(®) for preventing and treating influenza and influenza-like illness. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012; 12:CD001957. [PMID: 23235586 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001957.pub5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza is a highly infectious viral disease that is particularly common in the winter months. Oscillococcinum(®) is a patented homeopathic medicine that is made from a 1% solution of wild duck heart and liver extract, which is then serially diluted 200 times with water and alcohol. OBJECTIVES To determine whether homeopathic Oscillococcinum(®) is more effective than placebo in the prevention and/or treatment of influenza and influenza-like illness in adults or children. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL (2012, Issue 7), MEDLINE (1966 to July week 4, 2012), MEDLINE In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations (6 August 2012), AMED (2006 to August 2012), Web of Science (1985 to August 2012), LILACS (1985 to August 2012) and EMBASE (1980 to August 2012). We contacted the manufacturers of Oscillococcinum(®) for information of more trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised, placebo-controlled trials of Oscillococcinum(®) in the prevention and/or treatment of influenza and influenza-like illness in adults or children. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Three review authors independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias in the eligible trials. MAIN RESULTS We included six studies: two prophylaxis trials (327 young to middle-aged adults in Russia) and four treatment trials (1196 teenagers and adults in France and Germany). The overall standard of trial reporting was poor and hence many important methodological aspects of the trials had unclear risk of bias. There was no statistically significant difference between the effects of Oscillococcinum(®) and placebo in the prevention of influenza-like illness: risk ratio (RR) 0.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.17 to 1.34, P = 0.16. Two treatment trials (judged as 'low quality') reported sufficient information to allow full data extraction: 48 hours after commencing treatment, there was an absolute risk reduction of 7.7% in the frequency of symptom relief with Oscillococcinum(®) compared with that of placebo (risk difference (RD) 0.077; 95% CI 0.03 to 0.12); the RR was 1.86 (95% CI 1.27 to 2.73; P = 0.001). A significant but lesser effect was observed at three days (RR 1.27, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.56; P = 0.03), and no significant difference between the groups was noted at four days (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.27; P = 0.10) or at five days (RR 1.06; 95% CI 0.96 to 1.16; P = 0.25). One of the six studies reported one patient who suffered an adverse effect (headache) from taking Oscillococcinum(®). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is insufficient good evidence to enable robust conclusions to be made about Oscillococcinum(®) in the prevention or treatment of influenza and influenza-like illness. Our findings do not rule out the possibility that Oscillococcinum(®) could have a clinically useful treatment effect but, given the low quality of the eligible studies, the evidence is not compelling. There was no evidence of clinically important harms due to Oscillococcinum(®).
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Bell IR, Koithan M. A model for homeopathic remedy effects: low dose nanoparticles, allostatic cross-adaptation, and time-dependent sensitization in a complex adaptive system. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2012; 12:191. [PMID: 23088629 PMCID: PMC3570304 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-12-191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2012] [Accepted: 10/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background This paper proposes a novel model for homeopathic remedy action on living systems. Research indicates that homeopathic remedies (a) contain measurable source and silica nanoparticles heterogeneously dispersed in colloidal solution; (b) act by modulating biological function of the allostatic stress response network (c) evoke biphasic actions on living systems via organism-dependent adaptive and endogenously amplified effects; (d) improve systemic resilience. Discussion The proposed active components of homeopathic remedies are nanoparticles of source substance in water-based colloidal solution, not bulk-form drugs. Nanoparticles have unique biological and physico-chemical properties, including increased catalytic reactivity, protein and DNA adsorption, bioavailability, dose-sparing, electromagnetic, and quantum effects different from bulk-form materials. Trituration and/or liquid succussions during classical remedy preparation create “top-down” nanostructures. Plants can biosynthesize remedy-templated silica nanostructures. Nanoparticles stimulate hormesis, a beneficial low-dose adaptive response. Homeopathic remedies prescribed in low doses spaced intermittently over time act as biological signals that stimulate the organism’s allostatic biological stress response network, evoking nonlinear modulatory, self-organizing change. Potential mechanisms include time-dependent sensitization (TDS), a type of adaptive plasticity/metaplasticity involving progressive amplification of host responses, which reverse direction and oscillate at physiological limits. To mobilize hormesis and TDS, the remedy must be appraised as a salient, but low level, novel threat, stressor, or homeostatic disruption for the whole organism. Silica nanoparticles adsorb remedy source and amplify effects. Properly-timed remedy dosing elicits disease-primed compensatory reversal in direction of maladaptive dynamics of the allostatic network, thus promoting resilience and recovery from disease. Summary Homeopathic remedies are proposed as source nanoparticles that mobilize hormesis and time-dependent sensitization via non-pharmacological effects on specific biological adaptive and amplification mechanisms. The nanoparticle nature of remedies would distinguish them from conventional bulk drugs in structure, morphology, and functional properties. Outcomes would depend upon the ability of the organism to respond to the remedy as a novel stressor or heterotypic biological threat, initiating reversals of cumulative, cross-adapted biological maladaptations underlying disease in the allostatic stress response network. Systemic resilience would improve. This model provides a foundation for theory-driven research on the role of nanomaterials in living systems, mechanisms of homeopathic remedy actions and translational uses in nanomedicine.
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Aleixo DL, Ferraz FN, Ferreira EC, de Lana M, Gomes ML, de Abreu Filho BA, de Araújo SM. Highly diluted medication reduces parasitemia and improves experimental infection evolution by Trypanosoma cruzi. BMC Res Notes 2012; 5:352. [PMID: 22784664 PMCID: PMC3441236 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-5-352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is no published information about the use of different protocols to administer a highly diluted medication. Evaluate the effect of different protocols for treatment with biotherapic T. cruzi 17 dH (BIOTTc17dH) on clinical/parasitological evolution of mice infected with T. cruzi-Y strain. Methods A blind, randomized controlled trial was performed twice, using 60 28-day-old male Swiss mice infected with T. cruzi-Y strain, in five treatment groups: CI - treated with a 7% ethanol-water solution, diluted in water (10 μL/mL) ad libitum; BIOTPI - treated with BIOTTc17dH in water (10 μL/mL) ad libitum during a period that started on the day of infection; BIOT4DI - treated with BIOTTc17dH in water (10 μL/mL) ad libitum beginning on the 4th day of infection; BIOT4-5–6 - treated with BIOTTc17dH by gavage (0.2 mL/ animal/day) on the 4th, 5th and 6th days after infection; BIOT7-8–9 - treated with BIOTTc17dH by gavage (0.2 mL/ animal/day) on the 7th, 8th and 9th days after infection. We evaluated: parasitemia; total parasitemia (Ptotal); maximum peak of parasites; prepatent period (PPP) - time from infection to detection of the parasite in blood; patent period (PP) - period when the parasitemia can be detected in blood; clinical aspects; and mortality. Results Parasitological parameters in the BIOTPI and mainly in the BIOT4PI group showed better evolution of the infection compared to the control group (CI), with lower Ptotal, lower maximum peak of parasites, higher PPP, lower PP and longer survival times. These animals showed stable body temperature and higher weight gain and water consumption, with more animals having normal-appearing fur for longer periods. In contrast, groups BIOT4-5–6 and BIOT7-8–9 showed worse evolution of the infection compared to the control group, considering both parasitological and clinical parameters. The correlation analysis combined with the other data from this study indicated that the prepatent period is the best parameter to evaluate the effect of a medication in this model. Conclusions The BIOT4DI group showed the best clinical and parasitological evolution, with lower parasitemia and a trend toward lower mortality and a longer survival period. The prepatent period was the best parameter to evaluate the effect of a medication in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Lessa Aleixo
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil.
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Koithan M, Bell IR, Niemeyer K, Pincus D. A complex systems science perspective for whole systems of complementary and alternative medicine research. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 19 Suppl 1:7-14. [PMID: 22327546 DOI: 10.1159/000335181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Whole systems complementary and alternative medicine (WS-CAM) approaches share a basic worldview that embraces interconnectedness; emergent, non-linear outcomes to treatment that include both local and global changes in the human condition; a contextual view of human beings that are inseparable from and responsive to their environments; and interventions that are complex, synergistic, and interdependent. These fundamental beliefs and principles run counter to the assumptions of reductionism and conventional biomedical research methods that presuppose unidimensional simple causes and thus dismantle and individually test various interventions that comprise only single aspects of the WSCAM system. This paper will demonstrate the superior fit and practical advantages of using complex adaptive systems (CAS) and related modeling approaches to develop the scientific basis for WS-CAM. Furthermore, the details of these CAS models will be used to provide working hypotheses to explain clinical phenomena such as (a) persistence of changes for weeks to months between treatments and/or after cessation of treatment, (b) nonlocal and whole systems changes resulting from therapy, (c) Hering's law, and (d) healing crises. Finally, complex systems science will be used to offer an alternative perspective on cause, beyond the simple reductionism of mainstream mechanistic ontology and more parsimonious than the historical vitalism of WS-CAM. Rather, complex systems science provides a scientifically rigorous, yet essentially holistic ontological perspective with which to conceptualize and empirically explore the development of disease and illness experiences, as well as experiences of healing and wellness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Koithan
- College of Nursing, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724-21203, USA.
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Effects of Ignatia amara in mouse behavioural models. HOMEOPATHY 2012; 101:57-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2011.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Revised: 09/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/17/2011] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Žilinskas J, Žekonis J, Žekonis G, Šadzevičienė R, Sapragonienė M, Navickaitė J, Barzdžiukaitė I. Inhibition of peripheral blood neutrophil oxidative burst in periodontitis patients with a homeopathic medication Traumeel S. Med Sci Monit 2011; 17:CR284-91. [PMID: 21525811 PMCID: PMC3539582 DOI: 10.12659/msm.881769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The anti-inflammatory effects of a homeopathic remedy, Traumeel S, have been observed in experimental and clinical studies; however, its antioxidant properties have not been elucidated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant effects of Traumeel S on peripheral blood neutrophils in patients with periodontitis. Material/Methods The study was performed using venous blood of 22 individuals with chronic periodontitis and 21 healthy subjects. The antioxidant effects of Traumeel S on the production of reactive oxygen species by unstimulated and stimulated with unopsonized E. coli neutrophils were investigated using luminol- and lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence (CL). Results Polymorphonuclear leukocytes of periodontitis patients produced higher levels (p<0.01) of light output of lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence and significantly reduced (p<0.01) light output of luminol-dependent chemiluminescence than analogous cells of healthy subjects. Highly diluted (10−4 of the stem solution) Traumeel S significantly (by approximately 50%) reduced superoxide-induced oxidation of lucigenin by unstimulated and stimulated with unopsonized E. coli polymorphonuclear leukocytes of periodontitis patients and had a tendency to intensify luminol-dependent chemiluminescence. Preincubation of the unstimulated and stimulated with unopsonized E. coli polymorphonuclear leukocytes of healthy subjects with Traumeel S exerts no inhibitory action on the luminol- and lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence of the above-mentioned cells. Conclusions This study indicates that Traumeel S may significantly reduce production of superoxide anion by unstimulated and stimulated peripheral blood polymorphonuclear neutrophils of periodontitis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juozas Žilinskas
- STOMATOLOGIJA Baltic Dental and Maxillofacial Journal, Kaunas, Lithuania
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Chand SK, Manchanda RK, Batra S, Mittal R. Homeopathy in the treatment of tubercular lymphadenitis (TBLN) – An Indian experience. HOMEOPATHY 2011; 100:157-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2010.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2008] [Revised: 10/18/2010] [Accepted: 11/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Kusum Chand
- Head of Homeopathic Department, Pushpanjali Crosslay Hospital, New Delhi, India.
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Cesar B, Abud APR, de Oliveira CC, Cardoso F, Bernardi RPD, Guimarães FSF, Gabardo J, de Freitas Buchi D. Treatment with at homeopathic complex medication modulates mononuclear bone marrow cell differentiation. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2011; 2011:212459. [PMID: 19736221 PMCID: PMC3095418 DOI: 10.1093/ecam/nep119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2008] [Accepted: 07/21/2009] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
A homeopathic complex medication (HCM), with immunomodulatory properties, is recommended for patients with depressed immune systems. Previous studies demonstrated that the medication induces an increase in leukocyte number. The bone marrow microenvironment is composed of growth factors, stromal cells, an extracellular matrix and progenitor cells that differentiate into mature blood cells. Mice were our biological model used in this research. We now report in vivo immunophenotyping of total bone marrow cells and ex vivo effects of the medication on mononuclear cell differentiation at different times. Cells were examined by light microscopy and cytokine levels were measured in vitro. After in vivo treatment with HCM, a pool of cells from the new marrow microenvironment was analyzed by flow cytometry to detect any trend in cell alteration. The results showed decreases, mainly, in CD11b and TER-119 markers compared with controls. Mononuclear cells were used to analyze the effects of ex vivo HCM treatment and the number of cells showing ring nuclei, niche cells and activated macrophages increased in culture, even in the absence of macrophage colony-stimulating factor. Cytokines favoring stromal cell survival and differentiation in culture were induced in vitro. Thus, we observe that HCM is immunomodulatory, either alone or in association with other products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Cesar
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula R. Abud
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Carolina C. de Oliveira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Raffaello Popa Di Bernardi
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Fernando S. F. Guimarães
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Juarez Gabardo
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Dorly de Freitas Buchi
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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Bellavite P, Magnani P, Zanolin E, Conforti A. Homeopathic Doses of Gelsemium sempervirens Improve the Behavior of Mice in Response to Novel Environments. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2011; 2011:362517. [PMID: 19752165 PMCID: PMC3135388 DOI: 10.1093/ecam/nep139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2009] [Accepted: 08/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Gelsemium sempervirens is used in homeopathy for treating patients with anxiety related symptoms, however there have been few experimental studies evaluating its pharmacological activity. We have investigated the effects of homeopathic doses of G. sempervirens on mice, using validated behavioral models. Centesimal (CH) dilutions/dynamizations of G. sempervirens, the reference drug diazepam (1 mg/kg body weight) or a placebo (solvent vehicle) were intraperitoneally delivered to groups of mice of CD1 strain during 8 days, then the effects were assessed by the Light-Dark (LD) choice test and by the Open-Field (OF) exploration test, in a fully blind manner. In the LD test, the mean time spent in the illuminated area by control and placebo-treated animals was 15.98%, for mice treated with diazepam it increased to 19.91% (P = .047), while with G. sempervirens 5 CH it was 18.11% (P = .341, non-significant). The number of transitions between the two compartments increased with diazepam from 6.19 to 9.64 (P < .001) but not with G. Sempervirens. In the OF test, G. sempervirens 5 CH significantly increased the time spent and the distance traveled in the central zone (P = .009 and P = .003, resp.), while diazepam had no effect on these OF test parameters. In a subsequent series of experiments, G. sempervirens 7 and 30 CH also significantly improved the behavioral responses of mice in the OF test (P < .01 for all tested variables). Neither dilutions of G. sempervirens affected the total distance traveled, indicating that the behavioral effect was not due to unspecific changes in locomotor activity. In conclusion, homeopathic doses of G. sempervirens influence the emotional responses of mice to novel environments, suggesting an improvement in exploratory behavior and a diminution of thigmotaxis or neophobia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Morphological Biomedical Sciences (Chemistry and Microscopy Section), University of Verona, Verona 37134, Italy
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Abstract
Homeopathy is the best known medical analogue of hormesis, others include hormoligosis and paradoxical pharmacology. Homeopathy is based on the concept Similia similibus curentur ('Let like be cured by like'); the exploitation of secondary effects of drugs, the body's reaction rather than the primary pharmacological action. The most controversial aspect of homeopathy is its use of 'ultramolecular' dilutions in which a single molecule of the starting substance is unlikely to be present. Classical pharmacological actions in vivo have been reported with dilutions as high as 10(-22)mol/L, but homeopathic medicines may be far more dilute than this. There is growing biological evidence including independent reproduction that in vivo effects may occur at such dilutions. In a systematic review, 73% of experiments showed an effect with ultramolecular dilutions including 68% of high-quality experiments. Physical and physico-chemical work suggests that homeopathic preparations contain stable ordered supramolecular structures, gas nanobubbles and dissolved silicates may be involved. Homeopathy may contribute to the generalizability and reproducibility of hormesis effects. It also raises the question of the threshold of hormesis effects.
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Abstract
This paper presents the case that certain types of homeopathic medicine may represent a form of hormesis, that is, either pre- or post-conditioning hormesis. An example of a post-conditioning model by van Wijk and colleagues demonstrated successful enhancement of adaptive responses using below-toxic threshold doses (i.e. hormetic doses) of inducing agents when administered subsequent to a highly toxic chemical exposure, thus satisfying a basic experimental biomedical standard. Of note is that this model uses exposures within a measurable predicted hormetic range, unlike most forms of homeopathy. This experimental framework (along with a pre-conditioning model developed by Bellavite) provides a possible vehicle by which certain aspect(s) of homeopathy may be integrated into mainstream biomedical assessment and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Calabrese
- Environmental Health Sciences Program, School of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA,
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Bellavite P, Chirumbolo S, Marzotto M. Hormesis and its relationship with homeopathy. Hum Exp Toxicol 2010; 29:573-9. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327110369771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Homeopathy is an ancient and complex therapeutic method that is rediscovering its scientific foundations. Hormesis is a frequently observed phenomenon that has been rigorously reported with precise dose-response curves. The therapeutic method based on the principle of ‘like cures like’ should not be confused with hormesis, which has several different implications from those of homeopathy. Yet, because both these approaches to nature and medicine are very broad in scope, they do end up having some points of contact. Thus, the well-established and consolidated field of hormesis can help cast light, through its ideas and research methods, on the possible mechanisms of action of remedies in ultra-low doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy,
| | | | - Marta Marzotto
- Department of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Basophil models of homeopathy: a sceptical view. HOMEOPATHY 2010; 99:51-6. [PMID: 20129176 DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2009.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2009] [Revised: 11/05/2009] [Accepted: 11/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This paper examines the activation and inhibition of activation of human basophils. After a brief description of human basophils, different methods to determine basophil activation are discussed with a special emphasis on the use of flow cytometric methods, as these circumvent the potential problems of assays based on the loss of colour by activated basophils. The activation of human basophils by ultra-high dilutions of anti-IgE is discussed. The majority of the paper describes the inhibition of basophil activation by ultra-high dilutions of histamine. The results from published papers are described and discussed. After over 20 years research trying to find out if high dilutions of histamine have a negative feedback effect on the activation of basophils by anti-IgE, what do we know? The methods are poorly standardized between laboratories - although the same is true for conventional studies. Certainly there appears to be some evidence for an effect - albeit small in some cases - with the high dilutions in several different laboratories using the flow cytometric methodologies. After standardization of a number of parameters, it is recommended that a multi-centre trial be performed to hopefully put an end to this "never-ending story".
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Sehon S, Stanley D. Applying the simplicity principle to homeopathy: what remains? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1211/fact.15.1.0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Bellavite P, Magnani P, Marzotto M, Conforti A. Assays of homeopathic remedies in rodent behavioural and psychopathological models. HOMEOPATHY 2009; 98:208-27. [PMID: 19945676 DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2009.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2009] [Revised: 09/07/2009] [Accepted: 09/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The first part of this paper reviews the effects of homeopathic remedies on several models of anxiety-like behaviours developed and described in rodents. The existing literature in this field comprises some fifteen exploratory studies, often published in non-indexed and non-peer-reviewed journals. Only a few results have been confirmed by multiple laboratories, and concern Ignatia, Gelsemium, Chamomilla (in homeopathic dilutions/potencies). Nevertheless, there are some interesting results pointing to the possible efficacy of other remedies, and confirming a statistically significant effect of high dilutions of neurotrophic molecules and antibodies. In the second part of this paper we report some recent results obtained in our laboratory, testing Aconitum, Nux vomica, Belladonna, Argentum nitricum, Tabacum (all 5CH potency) and Gelsemium (5, 7, 9 and 30CH potencies) on mice using ethological models of behaviour. The test was performed using coded drugs and controls in double blind (operations and calculations). After an initial screening that showed all the tested remedies (except for Belladonna) to have some effects on the behavioural parameters (light-dark test and open-field test), but with high experimental variability, we focused our study on Gelsemium, and carried out two complete series of experiments. The results showed that Gelsemium had several effects on the exploratory behaviour of mice, which in some models were highly statistically significant (p < 0.001), in all the dilutions/dynamizations used, but with complex differences according to the experimental conditions and test performed. Finally, some methodological issues of animal research in this field of homeopathy are discussed. The "Gelsemium model" - encompassing experimental studies in vitro and in vivo from different laboratories and with different methods, including significant effects of its major active principle gelsemine - may play a pivotal rule for investigations on other homeopathic remedies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Morphological Biomedical Sciences, University of Verona, Italy.
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Homeopathy for the treatment of menstrual irregularities: a case series. HOMEOPATHY 2009; 98:97-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2009.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2007] [Revised: 04/01/2008] [Accepted: 01/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Hielm-Björkman A, Tulamo RM, Salonen H, Raekallio M. Evaluating complementary therapies for canine osteoarthritis--Part II: a homeopathic combination preparation (Zeel). EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2007; 6:465-71. [PMID: 18955260 PMCID: PMC2781775 DOI: 10.1093/ecam/nem143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
A homeopathic combination preparation (HCP) for canine osteoarthritic pain was evaluated in a randomized, double-controlled and double-blinded clinical trial. Forty-four dogs with osteoarthritis (OA) that were randomly allocated into one of three groups completed the study. All dogs were fed test products or placebo for 8 weeks. The dogs were evaluated at the clinic four times, with 4-week intervals. Six different variables were assessed: veterinary-assessed mobility, two force plate variables, an owner-evaluated chronic pain index and pain and locomotion visual analogue scales (VASs). Intake of extra non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was also evaluated. A Chi-squared test and a Mann–Whitney test were used to determine significant improvement between groups. When changed into dichotomous responses of ‘improved’ or ‘not improved’ three out of the six variables showed a significant difference (P = 0.016, P = 0.008, P = 0.039) in improved dogs per group, between the HCP group and the placebo group. The odds ratios were over one for the same variables. As extent of improvement in the variables from start to end of treatment, the HCP product was significantly more improved in four (P = 0.015, P = 0.028, P = 0.049, P = 0.020) of the six variables, compared with the placebo. Our results indicated that the HCP Zeel® was beneficial in alleviating chronic orthopedic pain in dogs although it was not as effective as carprofen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hielm-Björkman
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland.
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