©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 1

CONTINUING HOMŒOPATHIC MEDICAL EDUCATION SERVICES

QUARTERLY HOMŒOPATHIC DIGEST

VOL. XXVIII, 3 & 4, 2011

Part I Current Literature Listing

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Part I of the journal lists the current literature in Homœopathy drawn from the well-known homœopathic journals

published world-over - India, England, Germany, France, Brazil, USA, etc., - discipline-wise, with brief

abstracts/extracts. Readers may refer to the original articles for detailed study. The full names and addresses of the

journals covered by this compilation are given at the end of Part I. Part II contains selected essays/articles/extracts,

while Part III carries original articles for this journal, Book Reviews, etc.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

I. PHILOSOPHY

1. Making Hahnemannřs ŘOrganonř a modern Text

book

SHEPPERD, Joel (AJHM. 102, 3/2009)

Students new to Homœopathy find the Organon

difficult to read. The author has proposed a new format

and an updated translation that would greatly help.

Homœopathic principles and methodology are still true.

It only requires a modern presentation to nicely

motivate students. Only a thorough foundation in the

Homœopathy founded by Samuel HAHNEMANN leads

to true advances and enrichment of the science. The

author has suggested how the Organon may be made

into a Řmodernř Text Book (see Part II).

2. The Science of Homœopathy: Part I & II

WHITMONT, Ronald, D.

(AJHM. 102, 4/2009 & 103, 1/2010)

Conventional medicine is in a state of crisis.

Skyrocketing costs and growing discontent pervade the

field. Homœopathy is a centuries-old system of

medicine that offers a unique solution to the current

health care dilemma. The evidence base of the

conventional allopathic and homœopathic medical

systems are reviewed and contrasted. Ideological,

practical and methodological impediments to the study

of Homœopathy are discussed. Part II (next issue of the

AJHM) continues with an exploration of the scientific

data on Homœopathy, its benefits and safety.

3. The concept of health Ŕ in the history of medicine

and in the writings of HAHNEMANN

SCHMIDT, M. Josef (HOM. 99, 3/2010)

The number of notions of health is not infinite. In

the history of medicine we can only find a number of

different conceptions or paradigmatic ideas of health, in

a variety of references and combinations. Health was

seen as: 1. Harmonious balance between principles or

entities, 2. Result of a struggle against opposing forces,

3. Continuous dialectical process, 4. Hierarchy of

components or functions, 5. Potential to perform and to

develop, 6. Transcendence towards higher levels of

being, 7. Result of conscious autonomous action, 8.

Optimal causal functioning, or 9. Public task and

responsibility.

Hahnemannřs view of health, as reflected in his

writings, utilized virtually all of these elements. They

reappear for instance as: 1. Harmonious tuning of the

life force, 2. Defeat of pathogenetic influences, 3.

Admittance of aggravations, 4. Autocracy of the spirit-

like life principle, 5. Reference to a higher goal of

human existence, 6. Perfecting character of medical

service, 7. Concern about dietetics and life style, 8.

Utilization of causality and natural science, and 9.

Appealing to governmental provisions and medical

police.

These paradigms have been repeatedly recombined

and applied. The theory of medicine is the attempt to

analyze, adjust, and develop concepts that meet the

demand of contemporary medical practice. Medical

theory lies between the fields of observable facts and

metaphysical convictions. Distinguishing the levels of

practice, theory, and metaphysics could allow the open

discussion of theoretical issues, such as the concept of

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 2

health or disease, without raising purely theoretical

objections to well-established practice.

4. Paradigmenkrise in der Homöopathische Medizin

und naturwissenschaftliche Rationalität

(Paradigm crisis in Homœopathy Medicine and

scientific rationality)

WÜRGER, Wolfgang (ZKH. 53, 3/2009)

Present homœopathic Medicine seems to divide

into a multitude of schools and trends. The

circumstances require a critical self-reflection on the

concept of Reason in our Science. The first step is a

discussion concerning the paradigm of Natural Sciences

and its exclusive claims of scientific knowledge in

medicine.

The interesting essay has chapters on identification

of the problem, a look at the history of science, the

mistaken self-identification of the scientific modern

medicine, grounds and circumstances of self-mistaken

stand of the modern medicine, paradigm difference

between the Scientific Medicine and homœopathic

Medicine, the Epistemological difference, the

methodological difference, practical difference,

difference of the nationality models, Theoretical and

Practical conclusions.

In the process of this study, the author has

explained Francis BACON, Rene DESCARTES, M.

FOUCAULT, HAHNEMANN. Immanuel KANT, Will

KLUNKER, KUHN T.S., WITTGENSTEIN, etc.

5. 200 years Organon of Medicine Ŕ A comparative

Review of its six editions (1810-1842)

SCHMIDT, M. Josef (HOM. 99, 4/2010)

In 2010, the 200

th

anniversary of the Organon is

celebrated by the homœopathic community. Samuel

Hahnemannřs Organon of Rational Therapeutics,

published in 1810, however, marks neither the

beginning of Homœopathy nor the end-point of its

development. On the one hand, its contents are based

on terms and concepts developed and published by

HAHNEMANN during the preceding two decades. On

the other hand the five revised editions of Organon that

followed in the next three decades contain major

changes of theory and conceptions. Hahnemannřs basic

idea, running through all the stages of the foundation,

elaboration, and defence of his doctrine, may be

detected by a comparative review of his works from a

historical and philosophical perspective.

6. Susceptibility Bestow

POTDAR, Swapna (HCCR. 2/2009)

In this article, she writes about the susceptibility

and the role of Homœopathy in the inheritance of

susceptibility which we call ŘMiasmsř. Talking about

the modus operandi of the similimum she says that the

homœopathic remedy is like the clone of that suffering

soul, which vibrates on a similar energy frequency.

7. Homœopathy, Shamanism and Rajan Sankaranřs

Quest for the Vital Sensation

BUTEHORN, Loretta (HL. 20, 4/2007)

This article discusses how oneřs paradigmatic

viewpoint influences what information is considered

acceptable within a framework. Contemporary views of

SANKARAN are often rejected as non-classical

Homœopathy. However a shamanic worldview is

inherent in Hahnemannřs classical approach and

Sankaranřs innovative approach.

8. Paradise Lost:The Unified theory on Miasms

LOMBAERTS, Christel (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

Among the most discussed topics in the

homœopathic profession are the Miasm theories. Often

the word Miasm is not used or defined correctly. A

number of renowned homœopaths have tried to

systematize remedies and their Miasms in order to use

them as a tool to find the similimum. This article is an

attempt to put all these theories and concepts into

perspective in order to create a forum where there is

consensus about definitions and the nature of Miasms.

9. Miasma und Konstitution

(Miasms and Constitution)

SPARENBORG-NOLTE, Anne

(ZKH. 53, 3/2009)

Hahnemannřs Miasms concept as classified in his

Chronic Diseases, can be transferred into our daily

homœopathic practice, in this 21

st

century. His claim

that complicated chronic diseases could be cured with

homœopathic specific remedy for the (active) Miasm,

still holds true in todayřs case analysis, with only little

additions. The term of individual constitutional remedy

is not abandoned due to its lack of differentiation, but

instead defined more precisely thus gaining actually of

the background of miasmatic, heriditory and collective

burden.

This is a very interesting article.

10. Das Miasmenkonzept Hahnemanns in Lichte

aktueller epigenetischer Forschung

(The Miasms Concept of Hahnemann in the light of

actual Epigenetic Research)

MAYER, Gabriele (ZKH. 53, 3/2009)

Epigenetics means relating to, being or involving a

modification in Gene expression that is independent of

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the DNA sequence of a Gene; changes in Gene function

without involving DNA sequence.

In this article Hahnemannřs concept of the Miasms

is discussed in the light of modern researches in

Epigenesis. Also Epigenetic regulation and hereditary

are discussed; as well as the relevance of Epigenetics

for Medicine and particularly to Homœopathy. Main

emphasis is put on the phenomenon of inheritability of

epigenetic modifications in connection with heredity of

the chronic Miasms.

11. Neuere homöopathische Lehren:

Fehlinterpretationen des Organons

(The new teachings in Homœopathy; wrong

interpretation of the Organon)

VITHOULKAS, George (ZKH. 53, 4/2009)

For a correct homœopathic prescription, the

patientřs physical condition as well as his mental state,

both have to be taken into consideration. Prescription

based on Řmentalř symptom alone may only be doing

suppressive treatment. There has been much

misinterpretation of the §210. The new ideas only

confuse and in the opinion of the experienced author

Řdisastrousř for Homœopathy.

12. Zur therapeutischen Anwendung des

Seitenewechsels der Symptome

(Therapeutic application of symptoms that Change

Sides)

BÜNDNER, Martin (ZKH. 53, 4/2009)

While Constantin HERINGřs article on

Hahnemannřs Three Rules concerning the rank of

Symptom wherein the Law of Direction of Cure has

been explained, is well-known, much less known is a

subsequent article of HERING on the ŘRule of the

Sidesř. In this Rule of the Sides HERING has

postulated on the basis of the conception of Alkalines

and Acids, that the remedy selected should be one that

is the opposite of the complaint, i.e. if a pain came first

on the right and then went on to the left limb, the

medicine that has the opposite in its Proving must be

selected.

However, in actual practice over several years, this

has not been borne out, and what has been in actual

practice would continue.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

II. MATERIA MEDICA

1. Venus Merceneria, the clam or quahog

EVANS JO (AJHM. 102, 4/2009)

Main Polarities: Split, detached, disconnected or

clamped, closed, tight. Open or Closed. Giving or

Receiving. Material or Spiritual. Money or Love.

Mind: Dr. RAESIDE writes of the Proving that

Ŗthinking and coordination were more disturbed than

feelings.ŗ Aware of acute senses and their emotional

effects; sensitive heart. Feels the need to cut off or

detach from others due to acute emotional sensitivity

and excessive sympathy. The patient experiences the

inability to feel emotion as a sensation of inner

coldness. Fears losing control; such as, screaming on a

bus. Unconscious life and dreams are violent and

fearful: dreams of murder, violence, spiders.

Claustrophobia.

Sensations: Split, disconnected, detached, separated.

No emotional feeling, yet sensitive to touch. Cramping,

clamping, band-like, constriction. Stabbing. Heavy,

stone-like, pressing. Tingling, itching. Throbbing.

Dreams: Spiders, violence ending in death, disturbing

dreams of death and disease.

System Affinities: Cardiovascular. Respiratory.

Reproductive. Musculoskeletal. Skin.

Clinical Affinities: Psychopathology. Inflammations.

Arthritis, Peritonitis, Enteritis. Dysmenorrhoea.

Headaches, Migraine: like a band, clamp or helmet.

Bilious headache with constipation, frequent urination

and nausea. Chronic constipation. Boils, Eczema,

Urticaria, Ulcers. Stabbing sensation in heart, tender

sternum, anaemia, bruised sensation, Phlebitis.

Paralysis of the diaphragm.

Generals: Generally sensitive to touch, sound and

odors. Better for movement. The physical particulars

are of an inflammatory nature (Ŗ-itisŗ): ulceration

(mouth, stomach, gastrointestinal), while the general

sensation is of being cold, often with a cold or even icy

sensation in particular parts. Cold or icy sensations.

Desire for cold food and drink.

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Mollusca Class: Bivalvia

Order: Veneroida Family: Veneridae Genus:

Mercenaria.

Homœopathic name: Venus mercenaria. Abbreviation:

Ven-m.

Latin names: Venus mercenaria, Mercenaria

mercenaria.

Common names: Common edible clam, American hard

shell clam, quahog.

Etymology: Venus: goddess of love; mercenaria:

concerned with trading, exchange or money.

Remedy Source

The remedy is prepared from the mother tincture of

the animal, plus an equal part of a trituration, at 1/100,

of the shell. For the original proving, in 1960, Nelsons

pharmacy, London, received a live clam sent to them in

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seawater from Marine Biological Laboratories, Woods

Hole, Massachusetts, USA. They minced the fleshy

portion and preserved it in alcohol. A portion of shell

was triturated up to 3C and used to make a 4C liquid

potency. The proversř powders were medicated with a

combination of the clam shell and clam flesh, prescribed

in three potencies Ŕ 30C, 12C, and 6C.

Proving

The proving substance was chosen by Dr.

FOUBISTER and the proving itself was conducted by

Dr. John ROBERTSON RAESIDE in 1960-61, in the

United Kingdom. There were nineteen provers during

three terms (nine men and ten women, plus three

controls in the first term and four in the second and

none in the third); powders were taken, one dose

morning and evening for fourteen days, using the

following potencies: 30C in the first term, 12C in the

second term and 6C in the third term. The third term

produced the most symptoms. Dr. FOUBISTER

suggested that these potencies might be more suitable

than lower ones (in the ŘXř range), since the clam is a

food and therefore less likely to produce symptoms in

low potency. (ŘA Proving of Venus mercenaria (clam)ř,

by J.R. RAESIDE. British Homœopathic Journal

1962; 51(3): pp. 200-206.)

Confusion in homœopathic literature

The common name of the remedy has been

confusingly and incorrectly given as ŘAmerican

scallopř, despite being correctly named by the original

prover, RAESIDE, as American clam. This has led to

some errors in homœopathic literature, confusing

Pecten jacobeus and Venus mercenaria. Samuel

SWAN experimented with the scallop, Pecten, as a

medicine, half a century earlier.

Compare

O.A. JULIAN states that Carcinosin is

complementary to Venus mercenaria. Conchiolinum,

another mollusk shell remedy, is also comparable to

Carcinosin. Prescribing Carcinosin or Venus

mercenaria does not necessarily relate to cancer

pathology, but it should perhaps be noted here that the

clam, and extracts of clam, are important in cancer

research, and the clinical data, below, reveals some

similarities to the Carcinosin remedy picture.

Generalities

Sensation: Weakness, exhaustion, desire to lie down,

frailty. Sensation as if the body is bruised on being

touched or pressed. Sensation of extreme coldness

(worse 3-5pm). Weakness on rising. Stabbing pains.

Function: Faintness at 10 am. Symptoms are similar to

those at the beginning of Influenza. Allergies of

psychological origin. ŖAllergic (psoric) sycotic types,

tending towards a cancerous condition following severe

self-intoxication.ŗ Bilious headaches. Inflammation:

Gastrointestinal, Arthritis, Cystitis, Phlebitis.

Mind

Sensation: Split, detached, disconnected. Cut-off.

Senses acute: irritability from company and noise:

Ŗkeep away from meŗ. Boredom, indifference, apathy.

Delusion bus goes too slow, time passes slowly.

Concentration difficult. Thoughts disconnected.

Difficulty writing. Dreams of spiders, death, murder,

violence. Fear of crying or screaming for no reason.

Intoxicated feeling: as if drunk, cannot think or

coordinate well. Split mind: schizophrenia, delusions;

rift between emotion, thought and behaviour.

Functions: Concentration: difficult. Thoughts:

disconnected. Depression on first day of menstrual

bleeding. Tired and dizzy in the morning. Schizoid

conditions.

Aversions: Noise, company. Claustrophobia.

Desires: Wide empty spaces. To go home. To be left

alone. Peace. Bright or light colours. Light.

Dreams: Spiders. Violence ending in death.

Disturbing dreams of death and disease.

Sleep

Restless or disturbed sleep. Waking (after midnight,

2am). Waking from dreams.

Face

Sensation: Itching skin.

Function: Spots turn into boils.

Head

Sensation: Mind/brain/head is not coordinated with

body.

Headache.

Sensation: Dull, depressing, heavy, sensation as if head

is being held tightly: gripping, constricting, tightness.

Sensation of headache on waking, with blood rushing to

the head and tingling, itching of the scalp. Throbbing,

stabbing, sharp pain.

Function: Migraine accompanied by digestive or

urinary concomitants.

Location: Frontal, occipital, left-sided, right-sided,

behind the eyes, over left eye, at the back of the head,

vertex.

Aggravation: Morning on waking, afternoon, going

upstairs, mental effort.

Amelioration: Darkness, quiet, sitting still, late

evening.

Concomitants: Vertigo, Nausea, buzzing, vomiting,

frequency of urination, digestive symptoms, difficulty

thinking.

Time modalities: 4 pm, 1 pm, 10.30 am to 1.30 pm,

3.30 pm. 2 pm. 5 pm.

Vision

Blurred vision.

Eye

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Sensation: Of inflammation.

Function: Swollen. Redness and inflammation of

lower eyelid.

Hearing

Sensation: Pain in left ear. Buzzing. Burning itch

behind ears.

Concomitants: Irritability from noise.

Sounds: Buzzing.

Taste and Appetite

Mind Sensation: Desires cold food and drink.

Taste: Metallic taste in the mouth, food tastes metallic.

Desires: Cold food and drink.

Aggravation: Nausea after eating followed by

vomiting.

Amelioration: Nervous tension in stomach > eating.

Tongue

Sensation: Cold.

Function: White-coated; white at the root, furred.

Mouth

Sensation: Cold feeling in mouth and throat. Soreness

of the lower lip, corners of the mouth.

Function: Blisters on the lips. Soreness in corners of

mouth and lower lip. Cracks in corners of mouth with

Mastitis.

Teeth

Sensation: Teeth sensitive to hot and cold, toothache

(upper left side).

Gastrointestinal

Stomach Sensation: Nervous tension. Nausea.

Heaviness, sensation of a stone. Pressing pain.

Constricting feeling.

Sensation Abdomen: Waking at 4:30 am with pain in

left side of the abdomen, worse lying on left side.

Sensation of wind and rumbling. Pains feel like

menstrual pain.

Function: Indigestion. Stomach ulcers. Nausea.

Vomiting. Flatulence (extreme, continual). Slight

diarrhea (with stomach pain and nausea). Inflammation,

Peritonitis, Enteritis. Chronic, severe constipation (no

urging).

Ameliorations: Eating.

Aggravations: Nausea, worse after eating, during

headache, during pain in stomach, cycling, at night.

Concomitants: Heat and perspiration. Migraine.

Thirst

Thirsty for cold drinks, better in the evening.

Rectum

Sensation: No urging or desire for stool despite chronic

constipation.

Function: Diarrhea or extreme constipation.

Flatulence.

Stool

Function: Loose. Diarrhea.

Urinary

Sensation: Pain in the right kidney, worse on waking.

Brief pain in left kidney. Pain in bladder.

Function: Frequency of urination day and night

(disturbing sleep).

Urine: Profuse, frothy, cloudy, offensive urine.

Nose and Sense of Smell

Sensitive to odors.

Sensation: Sensitive to odors.

Function: Common cold with discharge initially

watery, becoming thick. Green post-nasal catarrh.

Discharge: Green, watery, thick.

Aggravation: Morning, change of temperature, heat,

right side.

Amelioration: Evening.

Respiratory System

Throat Sensation: Dryness. Constriction in the

pharynx and larynx. Tight pain in the glands. Pain,

worse on the right side, extending to the ear, with pain

on swallowing, dryness and tightness.

Throat Function: Sore throat, going from left to right.

External Throat: Swollen lymph glands. Boils on the

neck.

Chest sensation: Very tender over sternum. Short,

stabbing pain in heart.

Heart

Sensation: Short stabbing pains. Marked tenderness

over the sternum.

Circulation

Sensation: Pain in veins of leg (left). Sensation of

blood rushing to the head. Faintness: morning, 10 am.

Veins: Phlebitis (inflammation of the veins).

Sex: Female

Menstruation Sensation: Strong cramping, better heat,

lying down.

Menstruation Function: Dysmenorrhea.

Breasts Function: Mastitis.

Touch, Movement and Temperature

Subjective Perception of the Body: Mind and body

feel uncoordinated when trying to concentrate. General

heavy, painful, cold sensation. Loss of sensation in

limbs. Emotions are felt in the right hypochondrium.

Perception of Space: The patient guards his space and

privacy, intensely disliking any invasion of his privacy.

Balance: Dizzy headache. Dizziness worse when tired.

Faintness (morning; 10 am). Vertigo, worse on rising

after sitting for a long time, and with migraine, better

pressure.

Perception of Pressure: Pressure and touch aggravate.

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Pains: Pressing, stone sensation, sensation of being

bound or held tightly, helmet-like pain in headache,

stabbing, throbbing.

Heat/Cold: Sensations of extreme coldness in parts;

e.g., the mouth, limbs, vagina. Desire for cold food and

cold water. Period pain, better application of heat.

Skin

Skin Sensation: Itchiness of face, ears, back and limbs.

Tingling, crawling, burning (worse 9 am and night).

Skin Function: Urticaria (left hand). Boils. Pimples.

Eczema. Prurigo. Bruises easily.

Back

Back and Spine Sensation: Stiffness in muscles of

back and nape of neck on waking. Pain under right

scapula.

Back and Spine Function: Arthritic pain.

Musculoskeletal

Musculoskeletal Sensation: Cramps. Heaviness.

Pains in hip, knee and ankle joint. Dull, rheumatic or

sharp muscular pains in arms, with heaviness, tiredness,

heat and stiffness (worse right arm). Tingling in fingers

(worse right hand). Arms and legs itching (arms worse

at night).

Musculoskeletal Function: Arthritis. Swelling in

general; swelling of the lower limbs with heat and pain

(knees, right knee). Motion ameliorates.

2. Fehlerhafte Symptome in verschiedenen Ausgaben

von Hahnemanns Arzneimittellehre

(Erroneous symptoms in different editions of

Hahnemannřs Materia Medica)

HANSELMANN, Beat (ZKH. 53, 2/2009)

In the recent times there has been published a

ŖCollected Materia Medicaŗ of HAHNEMANN (in

German); the Materia Medica Pura, Chronic Diseases

and other works of the Master have all been put in one

place. This work has been carried out by Drs. Christian

LUCAE and Matthias WISCHNER.

These authors have said that ŖNo symptom was

taken off, no symptom was altered with regard to its

wordings, only clearly errors in writing have been

correctedŗ. However, in this article several mistakes

have been listed in regard to Sulfur, Lycopodium, and

Calcarea carbonica. These mistakes are not to be

lightly brushed aside. All these are with reference to the

German editions. In so far as the English version is

concerned we have the DUDGEON (Materia Medica

Pura) and LH. TAFEL, HUGHES et al editions wherein

only the original entries are put in and hence no

question of error. [However, I have made a random

comparison of these with the Řmistakesř pointed out in

this article and the English editions already in use since

decades are free from these mistakes = KSS.]

3. Large-scale application of highly-diluted bacteria

for Leptospirosis epidemic control

BRACHO Gustavo, VARELA Enrique,

FERNÁNDEZ Rolando, ORDAZ Barbara,

MARZOA Natalia, MENÉNDEZ Jorge GARCIA

Luis, GILLING Esperanza, LEYVA Richard,

RUFÍN Reynaldo, TORRE DE LA Ruben, SOLIS

L Rosa BATISTA Niurka, BORRERO Reinier &

CAMPA Concepción (HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of

major importance in the tropics where the incidence

peaks in rainy seasons. Natural disasters represent a big

challenge to Leptospirosis prevention strategies

especially in endemic regions. Vaccination is an

effective option but of reduced effectiveness in

emergency situations. Homœoprophylactic

interventions might help to control epidemics by using

highly-diluted pathogens to induce protection in a short

time scale. We report the results of a very large-scale

homœoprophylaxis (HP) intervention against

Leptospirosis in a dangerous epidemic situation in three

provinces of Cuba in 2007.

Methods: Forecast models were used to estimate

possible trends of disease incidence. A

homœoprophylactic formulation was prepared from

dilutions of four circulating strains of Leptospirosis.

This formulation was administered orally to 2.3 million

persons at high risk in an epidemic in a region affected

by natural disasters. The data from surveillance were

used to measure the impact of the intervention by

comparing with historical trends and non-intervention

regions.

Results: After the homeoprophylactic intervention a

significant decrease of the disease incidence was

observed in the intervention regions. No such

modifications were observed in non-intervention

regions. In the intervention region the incidence of

Leptospirosis fell below the historic median. This

observation was independent of rainfall.

Conclusions: The homeoprophylactic approach was

associated with a large reduction of disease incidence

and control of the epidemic. The results suggest the use

of HP as a feasible tool for epidemic control, further

research is warranted.

[I feel that it is erroneous to keep writing merely Ŗhighly

diluted substancesŗ; mere high dilution does not make it

a remedy. HAHNEMANN called his method

Ŗdynamisationŗ. In FN 269 to §269 of Organon

(p.237, Organon of the Medical Art, Edited and

annotated by Wenda Brewster OřREILLY, Bird Cage

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Books, California; 1996) HAHNEMANN has said

Ŗdaily we hear homœopathic medicinal potencies

referred to as mere dilutions when they are, in fact, the

opposite. There is a true opening up of the natural

substances produced by trituration and succussion,

bringing it to the revelatory light of day the specific

medicinal powers that lie hidden in their inner Wesen.

The non-medicinal dilution medium merely helps as

supervening accessory condition. For example, the

simple dilution of a grain of salt in a large amount of

water results in just plain water, the grain of salt

disappears and never becomes the medicinal salt that

our well-prepared dynamizations have heightened to

such admirable strength.ŗ Ŕ we should always beware of

using the Ŗdilutionŗ instead of the word Ŗdynamizationŗ

or Ŗpotentization.ŗ Too many criticisms have been

made using this word Ŗdilutionŗ without understandlng

the process involved in preparing the homœopathic

medicinal Ŗdynamizationsŗ = KSS]

4. A proving of Chanel No.5

BENASSINI, Sandra & BESSERER, Lorrelaine

(AH. 15/2009)

The proving of the perfume Chanel No.5 was the

project of the fourth year at the Vancouver

Homœopathic Academy under the supervision of

Director Murray FELDMAN.

Remedy made by Helios Pharmacy. 13 provers.

Proved in 12c, 15c, &30c.

Double blind experiment. [In my opinion these are

crazy substances choice = KSS]

5. A Trituration Proving of the Ancient Bristlecone

Pine

LANDOWNE, Deborab (AH. 15/2009)

A trituration proving of Pinus longaeva, the ancient

Bristlecone Pine, was conducted in San Francisco on

October 29, 2005, at 10:00 A.M. There were 9 provers,

all female, who at the time were students or graduates of

the Pacific Academy of Homœopathy. The trituration

was supervised by Richard PITT, and the prover diaries

were analyzed by the author, under a single-blind

methodology. Only the supervisor knew what the

substance was until after the symptoms were reviewed

and sorted. A sample of needles and twigs from a

branch of ancient bristlecone pine, Pinus longaeva, was

triturated to the 3C potency. Each prover kept a short

diary for up to a week following the trituration,

documenting any dreams and unusual symptoms or

events.

Several themes emerged during the analysis of the

proversř experiences:

Emergence of old traumas with a sense of

resolution or understanding

Joint and extremity symptoms

Sharp pains

Restriction/Expansion of vision

Sleepiness

Irritability

Old feelings, memories, etc.

Heart and chest symptoms

Ocean and waves

Itching and dryness

Compassion

Indifference

Clutter/Belongings/Possessions

6. A proving of Gavia immer (Common Loon)

HUENECKE, Jason-Aeric (AH. 15/2009)

MASTER PROVER: Jason-Aeric HUENECKE led

the proving of Gavia immer for the Northwestern

Academy of Homœopathy in 2006.

COMPILATION: Lori Foley and Sandra Haering,

with students and alumni of the Northwestern Academy

of Homœopathy.

METHODOLOGY: 24 provers began and 18

completed this proving. Neither the provers nor their

supervisors knew what the substance was. The master

prover knew it would be one of three substances.

SOURCE: One whole loon feather: Loonřs feather

from the Queen Charlotte Islands, off the northwest

coast of British Columbia, Canada.

KINGDOM: Animalia

PHYLUM: Chordata

SUBPHYLUM: Vertebrata

CLASSIFICATION: Aves (bird)

ORDER: Gaviiformes

SPECIES: Gavia immer

Themes:

Apathy versus productivity

Appearing, disappearing quickly

Birds

Burning

Contamination, disgust, disrepair & filth

Desire nature and fresh air

Distance & space from others, aversion to company,

desires solitude, self-reflective

Esoteric, mysterious, trance-like

Exhausted, walking with birds

Gaining awareness & a deeper understanding

Ghosts, undead, & vampires

Grief

Insects

Irritable, sudden anger

No worries

Playfulness, attractiveness, & sexuality increased

Spacey, disconnected

Vigilance, watching & observing

Water/flowing/floating/sinking

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 8

[Personally, I feel that it would be far more useful if our

old remedies are reproved, instead of trying new

substances. These new remedies where would I, a

simple practitioner in a part of the world, get the

medicine? These Řprovingř reports are of no value for a

regular practitioner. = KSS]

7. Niobium metallicum proving

MILLER, Linda F.G. (AH. 15/2009)

Niobium is found in Group five, Row five of the

periodic table. Niobium physically facilitates electrical

connections.

Helios Pharmacy prepared the remedy and 30c

potency was given to all 13 women provers in a triple

blind proving.

The themes and rubrics are given.

8. Die Bedeutung der hervorgehobenen symptome in

Hahnemanns Arzneimittellehre

(The significance of the symptoms emphasized in

the Materia Medica of HAHNEMANN)

WISCHENER, Matthias (ZKH. 53, 3/2009)

In his Materia Medica, HAHNEMANN has

emphasized certain symptoms by special typesetting Ŕ

for example, spaced letters, bold letters, or capital

letters. … The author examines, with reference to such

emphasized symptoms, whether such symptoms were

characteristics in actual practice. As a result of careful

study the author has come to the conclusion that the

emphasis had no specific significance in actual practice.

For some reason HAHNEMANN felt some symptoms

as worthy of being emphasized. Not all those symptoms

are based on ŘProvingř but include toxicological as well

as clinical.

There is detailed discussion in the article.

However, George DIMITRIADIS has much to say

in this matter, in his ŘLetter to the Editorř (ZKH. 53,

4/2009) he points out that HAHNEMANN stressed the

grade of certainty, in respect of particular

observations. Exactly the same was the practice of von

BOENNINGHAUSEN who also has followed this.

9. Arundo Donax sive Mauritainca sive Mediterranea

HOLZAPFEL, Klaus (ZKH. 53, 4/2009)

This is a Řsmallř Hayfever remedy. The remedy

appears to have only incomplete proving. However, the

author has studied this useful medicine with reference to

HERING, ERASTUS CASE, RABE, etc. He has cited

three cases from his own practice also.

10. Lac maternum or Lac humanum…

How do we choose?

HATHERLY, Patricia

(HL. 20, 4/2007)

While Lac maternum and Lac humanum have

many similarities (as one would expect since they both

contain mature human milk) they are essentially

different, although complementary medicines. Lac-m

also contains colostrums and it is this which affords the

connection with in-carnation issues often as a

consequence of birth trauma or damage done to the

Vital Force through vaccination or drug abuse. It is this

which constitutes the primary aetiology for the lac-m

state while it is perceived lack of a suitable length of

time spent at the maternal breast that forms the basis for

the lac-h state.

Proving themes of Lac maternum are given.

- Disconnection between the spirit and physical

body

- Alternating states and sides

- Confusion of mind

- Indifference; detachment

- Heightened senses; sensitive to

A case example for Lac maternum from the book

ŖChallenging children: success with Homœopathyŗ by

Linlee Jordan is given. [Lac maternum M, three doses a

day for three days to be immediately followed by Lac

humanum 7c again for 2 weeks, for a four-year old

child! = KSS.]

-------------------------------------------------------------------

III. THERAPEUTICS

1. An Autistic Boy

MOSKOWITZ, Richard (AJHM. 102, 3/2009)

A case of an autistic boy is described. Prescribing

indications Ŕ largely, silly behavior, sexual acting out,

and loquacity, among others Ŕ led to the prescription of

Hyoscyamus, which acted effectively in various

potencies, until, at one point, the patient no longer

responded. At this stage the MMR Nosode was

prescribed, since the childřs autistic behavior appeared

soon after that vaccine was administrated. There was

definite benefit derived from the Nosode and,

subsequently, it also restored the patientřs receptivity to

later doses of Hyoscyamus.

2. Usefulness of the Bowel Nosodes: Two cases

CHASE, Sandra (AJHM. 102, 3/2009)

Two cases are presented, the first of which showed

few significant improvement from conventional

homœopathic remedies and the second of which, after a

satisfying response to Sepia, then developed intractable

recurrent urinary tract infections. Both of these cases

then responded very well to their respective Bowel

Nosodes, Dysentery-co and Morgan pure. The cases

illustrate the utility of bowel nosodes when evidence of

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 9

dysbiosis (the first case of the respiratory tract, with

additional history of ulcerative colitis and ongoing

menopausal complaints; the second of the urinary tract,

with green leucorrhea and a history of hemorrhagic

uterine fibroids; both cases had been previously treated

with several antibiotics) is present and conventional

remedies either fail to act or obstacles to further action

arise.

3. A constipated child

NOSSAMAN, Nicholas (AJHM. 102, 3/2009)

Amelia, 2 years old, with past h/o recurrent Otitis

Media, presented with constipation. Tendency to

constipation before the onset of acute illnesses. Now

with the urge, she would cross her legs forcefully, grunt

and become red in face and resist the urge.

She is clingy with separation anxiety, fastidious Ŕ

angry when things are not tidy and refusing to use the

potty chair. Arsenicum album 200. Within a day, she

began having three to four stools a day without

resistance and within a week, much less anxious and

demanding with her mother.

4. A collection of Cases

WEMBER, David (AJHM. 102, 4/2009)

A four year old boy with emotional lability, temper

tantrums, contrary and sighed a lot. Disliked being

touched, hated to be combed and feared dogs. Loved

swings, rocking and dancing which calmed him down.

Purplish haemangioma on the right side of face.

Tarentula hispanica 1M. Definite improvement for 6

weeks. Calmer, less moody, less afraid of dogs,

brushing his hair. Relapse. Another dose helped for six

weeks. Then a dose of 10M.

Forty year old man with Prostatitis of 12 years

duration. Recurrent urinary tract infections requiring

six weeks of antibiotics. Resentments from prior work

and parental situations. Staphysagria 10M. Three

weeks later, no change. Now with acutely swollen and

tender right submandibular glands. Clematis 30. 20 Ŕ

30% >. Then daily dose for a week of Mycoplasma

urealyticum 30. Immediate > and any relapse subsided

with Clematis. (The author clarifies that Mycoplasma

urealyticum is a sexually transmitted organism which

frequently infects the Prostate gland. This medicine is

effective in Prostate patients.)

Fifty year-old woman with two day history of pain

and swelling in external throat. Felt exhausted and had

a low grade fever of 99 degree. Taken Aconitum

napellus for the anxiety. After a dose of Kali iodatum

200, fever subsided, energy returned and pain subsided.

Swelling persisted. Diagnosed as Thyroglossal duct

cyst and surgery was advised. Silica 12c once a day and

cyst gone in one week, without recurrence.

2½ year-old boy with constipation since six months

of age ever since the third set of inoculations. Belly was

swollen and hard, stools hard, dark, dry but well

formed. Lot of gas. Itching rectum. Collinsonia 30

thrice a day. After four days stools more frequent and

less painful.

45 year-old woman singer with heartburn and

hoarseness. Six months earlier diagnosed with vocal

nodules and a polyp and gastroesophageal reflux.

Chronic sinus congestion. Three deaths in the family in

the past year and resentments. Weekly doses of Natrum

muriaticum XM. Six weeks later, 50% better. Less

anxious, sleeping better. Voice better. Much happier.

Six weeks later, digestion, congestion and voice much

improved.

A woman with neuralgia after herpes six weeks

ago. No relief after medication by Neurologist. The

skin was still sore and sensitive to any touch. Deep

sense of betrayal by former husband. Staphysagria XM.

Once daily for a week. One month later, pain almost

gone. No longer depressed. Better attitude in life.

18 month old boy, had Eczema at 3 months,

Impetigo at 5 months and failing to thrive since 6

months of age. Not vaccinated. On iron for anaemia.

Picky eater. Likes salty things and no fat yogurt.

Natrum muriaticum 6x twice daily. Two months later,

eating much better and gained 20 ounces. Eczema

much better. Two months later, Eczema almost gone

and gaining weight progressively.

50 year-old man with an abscess in the lower back

was admitted for 3 days with intravenous antibiotics. A

month later given Penicillin for dental procedure. The

same night the abscess started to develop again. It was

of six inch area, surrounded by a four inch darker red

area with multiple pus vents. Pyrogenium 200 and a

remedy made from the pus in 4x potency. Three days

later, improving. After another dental procedure,

relapse and subsided with Pyrogenium.

Six year old girl with Otitis thrice, Bronchitis thrice

and Pneumonia in the past 1½ years. Adenoids

removed. Increasing asthmatic episodes. Phlegmatic

and sweaty at night. Calcarea carbonica 1M and

Bacillinum 200 weekly. One month later, she was off

all daily allopathic medications.

A fifty year old woman with h/o chronic Crohnřs

disease, Asthma, recurrent Sinusitis and Bronchitis,

Insomnia on several medications. Kava Kava a calming

herb was given. Also Avena sativa tincture drops one

week later. Admitted for acute gall stone colic and pain

got relieved. No gas and bloating from Crohnřs disease

and her sleep was great.

A young highly stressed woman with sudden chest

tightness with difficult breathing and heart pounding.

Diagnosed as Panic attack and Hypertension and was

put on medication. Then developed reflux with

Oesophagitis and again sudden chest pain with anxiety

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 10

and difficult sleep. Was suggested Kava kava at

bedtime. Argentum nitricum XM. Six weeks later,

sleeping well, more relaxed.

5. One in a million: A four month old with

Hepatoblastoma

FIER, Timothy (AJHM. 102, 4/2009)

This is a case of Hepatoblastoma in a four month

old boy treated concurrently with Homœopathy and

allopathic care consisting of Chemotherapy and surgical

resection.

He was seen on 23.09.2004 Ŕ after two cycles of

Chemotherapy. His characteristic symptoms were the

perspiration on back at night, vomiting after nursing and

hiccoughs. Mild nature. Chubby appearance. Calcarea

carbonica 30, daily once.

2.10.04: After the first dose, vomited once, and no

fever, energy and mood better.

15.10.04: Calcarea carbonica 30, if he was cranky,

which averaged every two to five days.

29,11.04: Calcarea carbonica 200.

The hepatoblastoma was completely resected on

10.12.04. He did well post-operatively. He continued

to do well on Calcarea carbonica. On 22.2.05 1M and

on 14.2.07 10M. The remedy was repeated during acute

illnesses and facilitated rapid resolution.

On 14.3.08: Surgeon reported recovered well from

portal vein stenosis and hepatoblastoma resection.

On 21.3.09: Mother reported, he still takes Calcarea

carbonica XM occasionally.

6. Das Ŗunzuverlässigeŗ homöopathische symptom

(The Ŗunreliableŗ homœopathic symptom)

RABE Steffen (ZKH. 53, 2/2009)

This article refers to the work of Dr. Heiner FREI

with particular reference to his treatment of AD(H)S

applying BOENNINGHAUSENřs Therapeutic Pocket

Book. We also have a very good book by Dr. FREI on

this method.

However, in this article Dr. RABE discusses some

important points. In the course of his studies on the

homoeopathic treatment of ADHS, Dr. Heiner FREI

identified reliable and unreliable symptoms for the

choice of the homœopathic remedy. Using the

Symptomen-Lexicon by Uwe PLATE, it can be

substantiated that the rubrics of Clemens von

BOENNINGHAUSENřs Therapeutic Pocket Book,

which FREI found to be unreliable, contain even in their

so-called characteristic degree predominantly curative

symptoms, whereas the reliable symptoms and rubrics

can be traced back to symptoms of the respective

proving of the remedy.

7. Case history: Individualised Homœopathy and

Severe Chronic Idiopathic Neutropenia (SCN)

POOLE, Jennifer (HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Boy of 3 years & 8 months with idiopathic SCN.

BCG vaccine at birth and repeated course of antibiotics

for variety of infections Ŕ including of the umbilicus

and Otitis. Perforated ear drums with foul smelling

discharge from left ear. Some speech delay and poor

short-term memory. Attending a special educational

needs unit. Grinding teeth in sleep. Sulphur XM. This

resulted in several earlier infections and skin eruptions

which were treated with few remedies reappear. After

10.75 months, Carcinosin 1M. 2 weeks later horrible

ear discharge and five days later, felt hungry with all

symptoms resolved. At the annual appointment, left

sided cellulitis. Lachesis 30. Silicea 50M as

constitutional remedy. 24 months following

commencing individualized homœopathic treatment,

ear discharge stopped, right ear drum healed.

Neutrophil count was 3-4 after 29 months of treatment

and 3.8 after 41 months. Healing followed the direction

and order of cure mentioned by HERING, with the Ear

symptom the last to clear.

SCN is considered incurable. But with

individualized homœopathic remedy it was cured.

8. The Healer within

MUELLER, Manfred (AH. 15/2009)

A well respected architect in her sixties, had

accustomed to too much drinks. She explained that was

for social reasons. Upon further probing, she said that

she found out a major error in a static calculation which

she had done for a high rise building which could affect

the structural integrity of the building. She buried the

secret and needed the alcohol to keep it there ŖI am such

a cowardŗ. Lycopodium.

Three weeks after she took the remedy felt the shift

and next day called the city council and told them.

They thanked her and wanted to redo the calculation

and make necessary recommendations to make it safe.

ŖWas it the Ŗconfession,ŗ or was it the remedy?

The author ventures to guess by activating the healer

within her, gave her the courage to reveal the

information. [Clearly Lycopodium helped her. Remain

grateful to HAHNEMANN = KSS.]

9. A case presentation Using Cycles and Segments

Analysis

ROTHENBERG, Amy (AH. 15/2009)

A cycle is made up of a group of segments. A

segment is a group of symptoms that represent the same

idea in the patient. RADARřs Herscu Module reflects

this approach and is straightforward to use.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 11

A 52 year-old woman with Vertigo in her peri

menopausal years. During Vertigo she had dyspnoea

and was anxious. She felt it in crowded places and

when overcome with emotions. A sort of floating away,

confused. Loquacious and belching frequent. While

doing many things, love to begin with, feels constricted

when overdoing segments Ŕ Vertigo, confusion, closing

off, discharges, company > and overwhelm, Nux

moschata 200. Six weeks later, no vertigo, felt more

grounded. After a few years, Calcarea carbonica. [To

me, old HAHNEMANN and his genuine followers are

enough. No innovative methods = KSS].

10. Experiences with C4 Triturations

GWYNETH, Evans (AH. 15/2009)

The author discusses her experience while

triturating the remedy substances herself to C4. The

idea of C4 trituration was postulated by German

Pharmacist withold EHRLER.

She feels while triturating, there is resonance with

the energy of the remedy. This means we can be in a

different, deeper relationship to the clientřs state

because of the trituration experience. Trituration

discloses the essence of a remedy level by level C

1

Ŕ

physical, C

2

Ŕ Emotional, C

3

Ŕ Mental (Delusion), C

4

-

Spiritual (Core or Essence).

11. Homœoprophylaxis for Infectious, contagious

Disease

BIRCH, Kate (AH. 15/2009)

See full article in Part II.

12. A case of Opium

WOOD, Paula Grandpre PT

(AH. 15/2009)

A 2½ year-old boy with delayed speech, lack of eye

contact and difficulty with transitions. Not responding.

Seemed to be in his own world. Temper tantrum.

Tends to be independent and play on his own. Wants to

be held if he is sick. Fears strangers. Reactive Airway

Disorder. By using Paul Herscuřs cycles and segments,

Opium 30 was given. Two months later: much better.

Responding when called. Using 100-150 words.

Transitions are easier. More interactive. No need of

nebulizer.

Six months later: Continued to improve in eye contact.

Responds 100%. Tantrums last only two minutes. Not

cupping ears, rubbing fingers. Respiratory issues

persist. Opium 200. Six months later Bufo 200. Then

due to aggressive behavior, kicking, biting

Tuberculinum 200. Doing well.

13. Cured long ago in the real sense: Malignant

Meningioma

MAMGAIN, S.K. (AH. 15/2009)

22 year-old patient, with a history of fall and

possible head injury. Meningioma in the left

parasaggital region. Undergone three Radiotherapy

sittings. Sudden attacks of Vertigo. Continuous

occipital and frontal headache > pressure. < exertion.

Periodic headache at vertex < 1 pm, maximum at 2 pm.

and declining at 3 p.m. Tears flow on seeing happy

scenes in T.V.

Itching inside thighs with dark, leathery skin.

11 Feb. 1992 Ŕ Conium maculatum 200, followed by

daily doses of Asterias rubens 30c for 29 consecutive

days.

19 Aug. 1992 - CT revealed increase of tumor size,

though there was feeling of general amelioration.

Previous course was repeated.

20 Sep. 1992 - CT revealed reduction in the size of

tumor.

26 Dec. 1992 - Final CT showed normal study.

19 Oct. 2008 - Till day he is normal. Successfully

completed his BHMS and practicing in Uttarkhand,

India.

14. A case of Gavia immer (Common Loon)

JOHNSON, David, A. (AH. 15, 2009)

41 year-old female with conflict and anxiety related

to family issues. Itching rashes. Anxiety for children,

dreams of flying and swimming underwater, sadness, a

connection with birds, an affinity for bright colours, fear

of spiders and needle like pains. Gavia immer 200c.

Four months later no rash. Dreams have changed.

Feeling calm and more balanced and a confusion now.

Another dose. 10 weeks later, more focus. Working

through nightmares. No anxiety. No remedy. 15

months later feels less chaotic.

15. Seizure Disorders in children

MUELLER, Manfred (AH. 15/2009)

The author discusses three cases of children with

organic brain pathology, apparently cured of seizures

with homœopathic treatment. Two had severe Cerebral

Palsy (CP) caused by perinatal brain injury, and one had

Congenital Microcephaly. Parents tried homœopathic

treatment because of limited efficacy of conventional

anticonvulsive therapy and because of adverse health

and developmental effects. Homœopathic treatment

removed the seizure disorders in all three cases.

Seizures resulting from brain pathology constitute

what HAHNEMANN referred to as Ŗone-sidedŗ cases,

where only pathological symptoms can be elicited. This

makes it necessary to take an especially detailed case to

obtain every available element of the totality of the

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 12

symptoms of the disorder and peculiarities to narrow

down selection of an appropriate remedy. It is

necessary to take note of subtle differences such as the

areas affected during convulsions and the character and

nature of the convulsive activity, as well as symptoms

that appear when no seizures are noticeable, since

convulsive disorders can affect the general well-being

of the whole person.

In such cases, it is important to understand that

emotional signs such as crying may be misleading in

severe organic brain pathology. Crying and laughing

are sometimes triggered by abnormal neurological

reflexes. It is often best to rely on the parentsř intuition

as to the meaning of their childřs emotional expression.

For these reasons, these symptoms are relatively less

reliable than they would be under other circumstances.

Case 1: Petitmal and focal seizures with severe cerebral

palsy. Adam was born with foetal distress, meconium

in amniotic fluid and forceps delivery, Asphyxia. Δ

with seizures and was put on medication incessant

crying. Failure to thrive. CT & MRI revealed Global

brain injury. Developmental delays, profound motor

impairment and Athetosis. Swallowing difficulties.

Increased dosage of medication further delayed

development.

During initial assessment, distorted facial features,

sunken eyes, turned upward. Bluish discoloration

around eyes. Clenched teeth, horrible breath. Clenched

thumbs. Cuprum metallicum 30, single dose, liquid on

forehead. Seizure terminated in few minutes. In

consultation with paediatric Neurologist anticonvulsants

were weaned. Now conscious during seizures.

Nystagmus. Cuprum 200c, single dose and an

additional dose during each seizures applied to the

forehead in liquid. The seizures subsided more quickly

with Cuprum. Bluishness gone, countenance changed.

His arms still twitched. Cicuta virosa 30, followed

several weeks later with the 200c.

Seizures gradually improved, now of shorter

duration. Less distortion. Less dehydration. Prolonged

drowsiness and sleepiness for several hours after

seizures. Opium 30, followed four weeks later by 200c.

in the next few months seizures involved only right arm

could eat and drink. Then Opium was discontinued.

Based on several routine neurological checkups, no

seizures were recorded in EEGs. The boy remained

seizure free, while he remained compromised by CP. In

the next ten years of observation, no seizures were

documented.

Case 2: Petitmal seizures and Eczema with

Microcephaly.

Thomas was born with missing frontal lobes.

Seizures soon after birth. Microcephaly and unilateral

cleft on right side of the brain. Episodes of staring.

Eczema on his neck.

Sulphur 1Q, once daily, for 10 days then 2Q.

Gradually weaned off medication. Mild seizures.

Began with a jerk. Nystagmus. Tightness of face.

Looked weak, wrinkled, pale, drawn. Phenobarbitalum

30, three doses daily for three days. Change Sulphur to

olfactory dose. Alternate with Belladonna 1Q. Ten

days later Opium 1Q. seizures more intense. Rash on

face, upper arms, elbows and calves. Sulphur 4Q, then

5Q. alternate with Bell 2Q, then 3Q.

Seizures became less frequent and then no further

seizures. Thriving. EEG showed no seizure activity.

Case 3: Complex seizure disorder, causing multiple

focal seizures in child with profound CP.

Corrine with cord around neck with low Apgar

score and seizures on the first day of life and continued

to have. Delayed milestones. Multiple medications due

to hundreds of seizures daily. Viscum album tincture

reduced the frequency initially. Profound motor

impairment at 12 years. With physical therapy and

speech therapy. Multiple clonic motions. Esophageal

reflux. MRI Ŕ periventricular leucomalacia with

ventricular dilatation. Expressed displeasure, joy and

sadness through sounds and countenance. Nystagmus,

drowsiness after each paroxysm. Nux vomica 1Q ten

days, then 2Q. Tautopathic antidotes in 30c.

Seizures significantly reduced in frequency and

milder. Nux vomica 3Q, 4Q, alternating with Opium

1Q, then 2Q. Seizures completely gone.

Difficulty in falling asleep. Terrible sleep apnea.

Constipation. Stamina increased.

Nux vomica 3,4Q and Opium 2, 3Q.

Sleep apnea gone. No reflux. No seizures.

Nux vomica 5, 6Q, Opium 4,5Q.

Continued constipation, but improvement in stool.

Learning skills improved.

Homœopathic treatment continued for several more

months and finally discontinued.

16. Heilungsgewissheit aus der Materia Medica

(Certainty of Healing in the Materia Medica) Ŕ

Part I

HOLZAPFEL, Klaus (ZKH. 53, 3/2009)

One of the essential features of knowledge of

Homœopathic Therapeutics is the apriori knowledge

about the certainty of the curative action of the remedy

given to the patient.

On one side is the so-called apriori healing

certainty and the relationship of this certainty with the

Materia Medica on the other side. Several well-known

persons Ŕ Will KLUNKER, FRÄNTZKI, GYPSER,

Josef SCHMIDT have studied this aspect Ŕ does the

similie principle come within the purview of being

considered in actual practice as being considered as

Řapriori certaintyř?

The discussion by the wellknown persons are

considered whether apriori certainty of cure and Law of

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 13

Similar fall within Natural Law or Law of Nature. It is

pointed out that the role of the patient is not to be under-

estimated.

17. Back from the Brink

Real help for the walking wounded: Healing Post-

traumatic stress

ACOSTA, Judith (HT. 31, 1/2011)

Lena, 17 year-old girl maintained that she was

pregnant despite evidence to the contrary.

Expressionless face. Distended abdomen. On returning

from a party, the problems had started. Inability to

urinate. Chilly. Left sided ovulation pain. Faintness

during menses. Sympathetic. Incoherent. All started

after she found out her boyfriend was cheating on her.

Ignatia XM. Within 24 hrs, she broke out in hives and

went to bathroom until her bowels were emptied of two

weeksř worth of stool. Till then none noticed her

retained stool. A week later, she was calmer, could

remember and communicate clearly. The anti-psychotic

medicines was reduced. Within a month she was back

to her usual self and continued to blossom, in the next

several months.

Four months later, she was becoming angry with

people whom she liked, confusion. Started vigorous

exercises. Felt estranged from family and leaving house

often. Bright red right cheek. Sepia 1M. Within a week

confusion gone and beginning to reach out her family

members.

Stacy, 35, under wide range of stress symptoms

since starting a job working with abandoned children

since 6 months. Sleepless, intensely sensitive and

frightened for no reason. Irritable. Abortion at 16 yrs

of age. Stricken conscience. Cyclamen 30, once a day

for 3 days. She released her memories about the

abortion and her feeling of abandonment over the next

few weeks in dreams, long overdue crying. Next

periods was regular without pain and clots. Migraine

symptoms reappeared after many years and subsided.

She shed fears and learned to handle her work.

Melissa, mid 20s. was in tremendous distress,

breathed in puffs, looked horrified. Sexual abuse since

childhood. Raped by a friend six months ago and since

then terrified and fear of being attacked again.

Stramonium XM. A week later calmer and began

productive counseling. A month later no nightmares.

Few months later, wept openly, compassionate and

loved company and reassurance. Warm blooded with

feet out of covers, craved ice cream. Pulsatilla 1M.

Since then improving steadily.

18. Prescription for PTSD. Remedies to the Rescue

SHALTS, Edward (HT. 31, 1/2011)

Indications for Aconite, Arnica, Arsenicum album

and Stramonium for the use in PTSD are given.

19. Fertile Ground

Homœopathy Effective for Infertility

COWARD, Steven (HT. 31, 1/2011)

Trish, 37, already had four children. Last two

pregnancies were with the help of ovulation stimulants.

She wanted to conceive without the use of them. Since

her second delivery, menses was scanty, watery and

pale. Day time hot flashes and awakened by sweating at

night. Volatile moods, sensitive to criticism; noise.

Mild urinary incontinence. Intolerant of heat, sun,

humidity. Sensitive to collars and waistbands. Many

complaints in the past were left sided. Lachesis 1M,

three pellets per week.

One month later she was pregnant. Less tired.

Improved mood. Less anger. Feeling calmer, happier.

Urinary incontinence better. Two months later,

headache with chills, nausea and light sensitivity.

Sleepless after 2.30a.m. New fastidiousness. Panic

when house was out of order. Arsenicum album 1M Ŕ

once a day for 4 days and then weekly once. Two

months later, no headache , but increased anxiety and

melancholy. Sleep better. Compulsion to clean

completely gone. Arsenicum album XM as needed. in

the next visit no anxiety and melancholy. She gave

birth to a healthy baby girl.

Katie 31, having Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

(PCOS). After hormonal treatment. She conceived and

delivered a son. Now wants to conceive without the

fertility drugs. Scanty menstruation. Volatile

emotionally, lighter the period, worse she felt. Hungry

but unable to eat. Distension from greasy foods.

Moodiness and irritability during mid cycle. Low

energy between 2 -5 p.m. Sleepless and woke up

unrefreshed. Pulsatilla 200, once a week.

A month later, improvement in several areas.

Better sleep and more energetic. Less distension. No

PMS & normal flow. Was pregnant. Slight nausea. >

with Ipecac. Delivered a healthy baby boy.

Nicole 32, menstruated just thrice in the past ten

years. Diagnosed with Hypothalamic Hypogonadism

and PCOS. She had a pregnancy scare at the age of 22

and stopped menstruating since then. Frequent hunger.

Extremely sensitive to anyone disagreeing with her.

Staphysagria 200, once per week. A month later she

had her menstruation. Noticed changes in vaginal

mucosa indicative of ovulation. To repeat one dose,

next month, if she does not get the sign of ovulation.

Two months later she was pregnant.

20. Babies, Springtime & Staying out of the doctorřs

office

CASTRO, Miranda (HT. 31, 1/2011)

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Author explains why Homœopathy doesnřt always

work. Understanding that the remedy doesnřt actually

cure is key. All a homœopathic remedy does is act as a

catalyst for healing by stimulating the body to heal

itself. A well directed homœopathic remedy can send

healing ripples to every part of a person.

Grand daughter Amelie at 7 days of life had sticky

eyes, goopy during the day, cold hands and feet. Silica

30 and overnight became alright. At 2 months of age,

overtiredness and wanting to be carried a lot and

snuffles better in open air. Pulsatilla cleared.

Another case of recurrent cold and cough becoming

better by the use of Ars. alb. by referring to the

complete Homœopathy Hand book (by the author) is

given.

21. 7 Stepping stones to select a successful Remedy

Practice is Everything

CASTRO, Miranda (HT. 31, 1/2011)

1. Step back and consider the whole picture.

2. Make notes.

3. Gather 3 or more symptoms.

4. Remember, common symptoms are for dummies.

5. Identify a Ŗcauseŗ.

6. compare two or more remedies.

7. Give your chosen remedy and observe carefully.

22. Itřs Sneezing, Snuffling, Itching season!

ULLMAN, Robert, REICHENBERG-ULLMAN,

Judyth (HT. 31, 1/2011)

Todd, 26 year-old, nose ran all the time, eyes

bleary, itchy, puffy and water. Sore throat due to

incessant post nasal drip. Pressing headache due to

swelling of sinuses. Worse outdoors. Usually his hay

fever symptoms last for about 4 months. Allium cepa

30. Three days later nose was dry, no sneezing.

Erik, 29, with Spring Hay Fever since 5 years of

age. Frequent, violent, paroxysmal sneezing, Watery,

runny nose. Skin under nose red and sore. Eyes itchy,

dry and irritated. Stuffy nose. Itchy forehead.

Lethargic. Sabadilla relieved him in 2 days.

23. Springtime joys and Challenges

Solutions for seasonal stings & allergies

ROTHENBERG, Amy (HT. 31, 1/2011)

Stings

Indications for Apis mellifica, Ledum, Hypericum,

Staphysagria and Urtica urens for use in insect bites are

given.

Hay fever

Indications for Allium cepa, Euphrasia, Ferrum

phosphoricum, Natrum muriaticum, Nux vomica,

Sabadilla and Wyethia are given.

24. Breast Cancer: Facts Women Should Care

GUHA, Debjani, CHATTERJEE, Ramdas &

BANERJEE Sarmistha (S & C. 72, 7-8/2006)

Breast Cancer is one of the most common cancers

among women worldwide. Risk factors for the disease

include aging, early menarche, late menopause,

nulliparities, family history, obesity, high fat diet, use of

contraceptives, exposure to radiation and viral

infections. Multiparity and lactation after pregnancy

have protective effects. The chances of cure in women

depend largely on early diagnosis. Surgery followed by

Radiotherapy is the usual treatment for breast cancer.

Chemotherapy, generally, is an adjunct to Surgery.

Consciousness and knowledge of women leading to

early diagnosis of breast cancer is the key solution of

this global problem.

25. A Case of Food Allergy

MISTRY, D.E. & CHITALE, Neeta

(HCCR. 2/2009)

Mrs. SCB, 45 years with urticarial rashes on nose,

face from sour food, ground nuts and ice cream since 25

years. Diarrhea from ground nuts and bony pains.

Cleanliness

3

. Easily angered. Brooding. Hurt by

husbandřs behavior. Staphysagria 30/3 doses. Three

days later no < from sour food. Two months later,

loose, sticky stools with abdominal pain after outside

food. Pulsatilla 30. Two months later, < from sour

food. Staphysagria 30/3. Two months later again

headache, rashes. Gaining weight. Lazy. Scanty flow.

Calcarea carbonica 200. 80% improvement. 4 months

later another dose and no problem at all.

26. Osteomyelitis of left mandible

MAMGAIN, S.K. (HCCR. 2/2009)

37-year-old female, had her carious tooth extracted

from left lower jaw. Continuous pain even after that.

Then pus started exuding. Unable to chew her food due

to thin plate of bone. Δ OM. Aurum met. 200, once a

day for 3 days. One month later, some improvement

Aurum met. 200, once in five days. With Calcarea

phos. 200 once in two days. 7 weeks later, a small piece

of bone exuded out. Able to eat with ease. Aurum met.

1M and then Angustura vera 30.

7 months later, occasional discharge of pus. Silicea

1M. No more problem.

27. Chronic Fistula

MAMGAIN, S.K. (HCCR. 2/2009)

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29-year-old male with fistula since two years.

operated twice and then recurred. Offensive purulent

discharge painful. Silica 200, every two days. 4 weeks

later, wound dried up and no pain. One month later

relapse after long travel. Silica 200 every 3 days. Then

patient did not turn up.

28. Obstacles to recovery in a case of Mania

POTDAR, Swapna (HCCR. 2/2009)

12 year-old girl with bouts of violent behavior since

2½ years. Throwing things, beating, biting. Jealous of

elder sister. Hates her. Number of Psychiatrists and

Counsellers could give no relief. Whimsical appetite

and mood. Desires cheese. Feels forsaken.

Stramonium 1M. 15 days later better. One week later,

intense irritability from being spoken to. Stramonium

10M. One month later better, but still losing control.

Tuberculinum 1M. Status quo. Investigations revealed,

very low B

12

level and Hb%. When these were

supplemented, she improved very rapidly.

The importance of §261 is stressed.

29. A case of coconut tree

POTDAR, Swapna (HCCR. 2/2009)

A lady with a garden, presented a problem of

coconuts growing well in size and drop down without

maturing fully. They are full of water. This tree is near

the sea.

Natrum mur. 6x powdered and dissolved in a half

bucket of water and the tree was watered with it once.

It is five years since this and never again did a coconut

drop down prematurely!

[Wonderful! If we apply Homœopathy in Agriculture,

chemical pollution and poisoning of the soil by the

Fertilisers Industry will end. So much economical too.

= KSS.]

30. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)

SOLANKI, Manisha (HCCR. 2/2009)

26 year male with DMD since 9 years of age.

Since a year intolerable pain in right leg, < night.

Fastidious. Aversion to sour food. Sleepless due to

pain. Plumbum met. 200 as needed. Mag.phos. 30 for

pain. Syphilinum 200 as intercurrent Ŕ over the next 9

years. CPK levels Ŕ 12/12/99 Ŕ 26000 1u/L. 16/7/09 Ŕ

6481IU/L.

31. A case of Lac caninum

SHAH, Devang (HCCR. 2/2009)

23 year-old male with Acne, sneezing, Aphthae.

Black heads and discoloration below eyes. Avoiding

others due to the feeling others are better than him. He

feels he is a loser. Based on the Rajan Sankaranřs

understanding of case, Lac canium 1M. 15 days later,

acne decreased. Sneezing decreased. 2 months later,

confidence improved. Feeling of rejection reduced. 4

months later, constipation. Another dose. [The method

adopted appears to me, strange indeed and even

amusing. To label this line of treatment one need not

spend years in a Medical College. = KSS].

32. A Case Of Macular Degeneration

MISTRY, D.E. & CHITALE, Neeta

(HCCR. 2/2009)

45 year-old man with right inguinal hernia since 20

years, dimness of vision due to macular holes, chest

pain when tense, fear of heights and earthquake.

Tendency to loose stools from change of water and diet.

Anal Fissure. Anger on contradiction. Anxiety about

health. Nux vom. 200 and Ginko biloba Q 2 drops b.d.

Mucus in stools after street food. Nux vom. 1M. Two

months later slight reduction in vision. Thuja 30/3

doses. Six months later. Flatulence. ↑ Acidity.

Difficulty in vision ↓. Lyc. 30, 200, 1M. 1 dose each

hourly. [This dosage is strange. What is the excuse for

this kind of doses? It makes me shudder. = KSS.]

One month later all well. Then Sil. 30 for boils.

Lyc. 1M for gastric problems six months later.

Carcinosin 30 for disturbed sleep. His vision is

improving.

33. A case of Infantile Diarrhoea

MAMGAIN (HCCR. 2/2009)

3 month old infant crying incessantly with diarrhea

since a month. Relapse after DPT. Restless twisting.

Emaciated. Abdomen distended. Offensive greenish

stools. Podophylum 30, 4 hourly. 24 hrs later, only 3

stools. Kali phos. 30, 2 doses. Next day one normal

stools.

Eczema on palms

48-year old lady with Eczema on palms since 2

years. Rough skin with cracks. Even on feet. Slight

pain in hepatic region and lower angle of right scapula.

Petroleum 200 once in two days and Sarsaparilla 1M

once a month. Better.

34. A case of deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

CHOUHAN, Vikram (HCCR. 2/2009)

A swelling in the left leg was diagnosed with DVT

and then found to have segmental micro thrombi in

lungs when investigated for exertional dyspnoea. Better

with Warfarin and Heparin. Still discomfort. Platina.

No complaints. Repeat Doppler showed no evidence of

venous thrombosis or occlusion.

35. Journey towards being Unprejudiced

KARKARE, Amit (HCCR. 2/2009)

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 16

Mrs. S. with chilliness and bodyache since 4 days.

High grade Fever with chilliness from feet. Knee pain

only during fever. Palms and soles hotter. Petroleum

200, within three hours 80% > and total recovery in a

day. Prescription was based on Boenninghausenřs

Repertory.

36. A Case of Vitiligo

KARKARE, Amit (HCCR. 2/2009)

7 year-old with Vitiligo since 2 years. Patches on

left forearm, forehead of scalp. Father has Vitiligo.

Buyont mood. Tolerates pain. Sweat on scalp.

Syphilinum 1M. One month later, Calcarea flour 30

q.i.d. One month later, forearm patch reducing in size

from periphery. Face patches, except one, all gone. In

the next 6 months gradually reducing in size.

37. A case of Vitiligo

KULKARNI, Ajith (HCCR. 2/2009)

9½ years old boy with white discoloration of right

ankle gradually increasing in size. Greenish nasal

discharge < by damp weather, getting wet. Natrum

sulph. 30 was repeated at intervals and Thuja as

intercurrent remedy. The white spot disappeared in 21

months.

38. Clinical Experience with Homœopathy in Vitiligo

PACHEGAONKAR, Uttereshwar & MEHER,

Subhash (HCCR. 2/2009)

These two doctors share their clinical experience in

treating Vitiligo, by giving few case examples.

Different remedies were given based on the totality and

improvement was seen.

39. Bleeding Haemorrhoids

KAKADE, Vaishali

(HCCR. 2/2009)

A woman with bleeding piles after allopathic

medication for UTI. Protruding piles with burning and

itching. Nux vomica 30 od for 7 days in the evening.

Sulphur 30 one daily for 3 days in the morning, 2

weeks later. Piles > but pain abdomen with fullness and

breathlessness. China 30 tds for 3 days. All complaints

relieved.

Diarrhea

4 year-old child with loose stool since 10 days.

Profuse, sudden, watery, foul and sometimes undigested

food particles. Podophyllum 30 tds for 2 days. 10 days

later febrile convulsion with dry lips and poor thirst Ŕ

Bell. 30.

40. One individualizing Technique

SHUKLA, Chetna N. (HL. 20, 4/2007)

This article is about Řan-otherř technique into the

Individualizing examination of a case opf disease (after

following the guidelines of the Organon). It is the

integration (according to my understanding) of Footnote

9 to aphorism 16 of the 6

th

edition of the Organon of

Hahnemann: ŖMost severe disease may be produced by

sufficient disturbance of the Vital Force through the

imagination and also cured by the same meansŗ and

Carl C. Jungřs techniques of (Dream) Active

Imagination and Amplification.

These techniques were applied in a 19 year-old

female case and the remedy prescribed Raphanus

produced marked improvement. [This FN to §16 is

given in the Boericke edition and J.Reeveřs edition, but

not in KÜnzli, OřREILLY, HOCHSTETTER edition =

KSS]

41. Metal prescription in paediatrics

ROUX LE, Patricia (HL. 20, 4/2007)

Stages of development are clearly discernible in the

child that grows up and matures. Remedies for these

stages can be found in every kingdom, but in no other

kingdom can the stages be traced back to remedies as

easily as in that of the minerals. Three cases are

presented as examples.

Case 1: Iron series. Chromium metallicum.

Mathilide, 12 years, consults for chronic Sinusitis.

Listless, lacks energy, odd joint pains. Needs

reassurance. Hugs mother. Negative, defiant. Likes

glittery clothes and bright jewellery. Conflict between

parents. Prefers not to act, rather than to act and fail.

Iron series has to do with performance, attack and

defence.

Stage 6: Forced to work or act.

Chromium metallicum 200. Three months later, her

Sinusitis disappeared. Needs less help. Nine months

later, situation is stable.

Case 2: Silver series: Indium metallicum.

Théo, lacks energy, disobedient, unable to

reconcile. Hyper sensitive. Loves to dress up as girl.

No responsibility for his actions. Nightmares.

Frightened of being abandoned. Spendthrift. Desires

raw meat.

Indium metallicum 200. 3 months later, stopped

dressing as a girl. Much calmer, obeys. One year later,

still stable.

Case 3: Gold series: Iridium metallicum.

11year-old Italian girl, developed Synovitis and

Cysts on her wrist, couple of weeks before a major

tennis competition, which could affect her future career.

She is taking care of financial responsilibity by winning

competitions.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 17

Iridum metallicum 9, 12, 15, 30CH for four days.

Ten days later, she is back on court. The Cysts and

Synovitis have gone.

42. A demanding child. A case of Rheum

PANCHAL, Manish (HL. 20, 4/2007)

Two year-old nephew with severe cough. Holding

genitals for no reason. Demanding mother to be with

him always. Screams and shrieks when he demands

certain things to be done. Chamomilla 1M did not help.

Using Phatakřs repertory Ŕ craving for a particular

object and Impetuous Rheum 1M. Cough reduced in

intensity, but change in behavior, gradually occurred

over a period of 5-6 months. Even 12 years later, no

relapse.

43. Mandragora. The world of Angels and Demons

MESSAGER, Alain (HL. 20, 4/2007)

Through particularly expressive drawings, a patient

gives us direct access to the psychology of Mandragora,

a magical plant known as far back as the time of the

Egyptians. The study of the remedy led us to discover a

proving carried out in Germany in 1996 with C30, C200

and C1000 potencies. That proving contains a large

number of mental symptoms that confirm the

observation.

[In none of these cases we have any information about

any order in the Řcureř and the follow-up time. The

cases (and articles) end as old fables end Ŗand then they

lived happilyŗ = KSS].

44. An Energetic Model of Homœopathy

GOLDEN, Issac (HL. 20, 4/2007)

We are more than just our physical body. Who and

what we are is discussed in terms of the energetic matter

which makes up our different energetic vehicles or

bodies. Homœopathy is explained in these energetic

terms, showing that the remedies do not heal us, but

permit our own self-healing energy to do the job it will

always do if not obstructed. The true nature of our Vital

Force is explained in energetic terms, as is the nature of

miasms and our constitution. Homœoprophylaxis is

defined, and research showing its short and long-term

safety and effectiveness is presented. The mechanism of

prevention is also explained in energetic terms. The

need for objective study of homœoprophylaxis is

discussed to ensure that the full benefits of all aspects of

Homœopathy are available to all.

45. Post vaccinal Behavioral Problems

SMITS, Tinus (HL. 20, 4/2007)

In this article it is intended to show evidence of the

relationship between vaccination and behavioural

problems in children, from mild to severe (ADHD and

Autism), through 30 case histories. The evidence is

provided through the use of potentised vaccines. The

hypothesis is that if the complaints disappear or strongly

ameliorate with the treatment of the potentised

substance which is supposed to be the cause of the

complaints, the proof is delivered that the particular

substance caused the damage. The fact that mild

moderate and severe cases of behavioural problems,

often with concomitant physical problems, are seen and

cured by this method strengthens the evidence of a

casual relationship between vaccinations and

behavioural problems.

46. Identifying with society

MANGIALAVORI, Massimo

(HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

35 year-old lady with severe Seborrhea and Acne

eruptions. Frequent bouts of Cystitis. Anxious.

Quarrelsome. Startled from sleep by noise. Desires

chocolate. Mouth ulcers. Spicy food disagrees.

Indifference to persons and pleasure. Does not want to

be in contact with other human being. Kali muriaticum

Q1. She had < of mouth ulcers initially. After three

months, no colic. Once mild Cystitis. Kali muriaticum

Q5. After 2 weeks leucorrhoea and mouth ulcers.

Stopped remedy and is on placebo for several months.

Calmer. [Repertorisation is done with more than 15-16

Řrubricsř in computers.]

47. Cases treated using Triple salts

LOUKAS, George (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

During the past few years, many new homœopathic

remedies have been prepared as a result of cooperation

with the pharmacists loannis and Christiana Efstathiou.

The most significant of these were new coordination

compounds consisting of three chemical elements,

excluding hydrogen and oxygen. These compounds

were named triple salts. In this article a few cases are

presented that were successfully treated using triple

salts.

[Are these proven medicines? Where is the Materia

Medica for these remedies? = KSS].

48. About the Beginning of creation

SCHLINGENSIEPEN ŔBRYSCH, Irene

(HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

36 year-old patient consulted in 2003 for colitis.

Migraine, frequent stool with bleeding and flatulence.

Exhausted feeling in right side of the body. Feeling of

losing power and of being paralysed. Delusions of

being handicapped, feeling of dependence and

premonition of impending global dangers. Fear of

disease and finance. Barium arsenicosum. For 2½

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 18

years it stopped the bleeding Colitis and Migraine and

improved the exhaustion. Then relapse and the remedy

did not help. During retaking the case he spoke of the

beginning of the universe, and of having returned to the

origin and of Big Bang, which is the primary source. So

Positronium C 200. 4 months later 1M. 4 months later

XM. Since then no need of any further dose. Steadily

growing feeling of security. [Who has Řprovedř in the

homœopathic sense, Positronium? Is the Materia

Medica of this remedy easily accessible to an ordinary

practitioner? = KSS.]

49. Unlocking the case with one key 1

BJORNDAL, Andreas, N. (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

A woman in her late 30s with Ulcerative Colitis.

Stool once every 15-20 mins. So life limited to her

home and her office. It all started after twin brother

killed himself. Withdrawn state of mind. Diarrhea

from oranges. Chilly and slow in answering.

Phosphoric acid 200, 5 tablets 5 times a day for 5 days,

to be repeated after one week. 4 weeks later, she was

much better. Within 3 months, no diarrhea and no

relapse at all thereafter.

50. Astringent like a Taut Spring

SCHADDE, Anne (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

36 year-old mother of three children with

exhaustion and dyspnoea. Feels herself responsible for

everything. This causes Headache, Tension in head.

Feels tension, locked. Plant remedy Ŕ Cocculus indicus

30. A week later tinnitus gone, but headaches off and

on. Now Flu with severe cough and severe back pain.

Ultra sensitive to noise Natrum muriaticum 200. Better

but relapse 3 months later. Natrum muriaticum 200.

Two months later, dislocated neck, strong strain felt,

astringent. Tense feeling of nerves and tendons,

blocked feeling. Tension is like a taut spring. So a

plant remedy with astringent feature. Menyanthes

trifoliata. After the remedy, she got a fever and

suddenly discharge of milk from her breast. After

weaning many months ago, she had fever with nodes in

mammae, Ŗcuredŗ with Phytolacca. Tension in cervical

region and Headache disappeared. 9 months later,

heavy cold. Menyanthes 200.

51. The Excluded Feeling in Two remedies of the

Lili- florae

NOONEN, Resie (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

85 year old, widow, religious and a Jehovahřs

Witness. Warm blooded. Suffocating feeling at times.

Jealous. Lachesis had helped for 16 years. In 2002

acute event. Shocked by daughter-in-lawřs behavior

towards her in a public place. She became pale, could

not walk. Could not recognize her daughter. Restless.

Trying to escape. Religious delirium. Shrieking with

fear. Refused to eat. Abusive, insulting. Sleepless.

Was on psychiatric medication. Veratrum album 1M

every hour one spoonful of dilution. By evening of

same day she recognized her daughter, wept for 2 hours

and then became calm. Slept well and became normal.

A woman, who as a child was abused in Japanese

concentration camp in Indonesia and traumatized by

rigid military behavior of father developed a feeling of

Řout castř. Walking difficulty since 14 years of age and

from her thirties sitting in wheel chair. Nightmares,

Dreams of escaping. Suicidal thoughts. Constipation

since childhood. Severe pain in stomach. Tympanic

abdomen. Carcinosinum helped her.

Then severe stomach ulcers with pain at night,

oppression in epigastrium. Ornithogalum umbellatum

200. Two months later, sleeping better. No dreams.

Pains much better. For the first time in 40 years, normal

stool without laxative. Feeling of living. Three months

later came walking. One year later, Grawitz tumor, in

right kidney. Operated. Ornithogalum 200 and Conium

200 alternated. Recovered.

52. New Lac cases

ROUX, Patricia Le (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

A case of Lac asinum.

Louis, two years old, has not slept whole night

since birth. He is Vietnamese and was adopted. He

wakes his mother every hour in a very obstinate manner

asking for milk. When he gets it he falls asleep.

Mother is exhausted. During the day he is charming

and sociable. Lac asinum 1M.

Child slept since next night after the remedy and

relapse was 12 months later and a repetition of dose

relieved.

Proving symptoms are given:

Forsaken sensation, lack of help

Surroundings are felt with injustice, lacking any

pity or compassion

The patient is victim, innocent, passive, without

defence

He wants to rebel, often nasty

He has feelings of serenity, is in good shape, he is

never very hungry

Often suffers from headache, round the eyes as if a

band

Swarming, paraesthesia in head, chest and

extremities

Lots of sympathetic symptoms; vaso-dilatation,

oedema, oliguria.

A case of Lac lama

Llona, six years with severe tummy pains and

vomiting after meals. Abandoned by father. Weight

loss. Vomiting when contradicted. Severe since treated

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 19

for Pneumonia. Dry skin. Blepharitis. Likes to be in

open air. Desires chocolate. Lac lama 1M. No

vomiting and weight gain.

53. ŖLocked in a cageŗ. A case of Lac leoninum

CHAUHAN, Dinesh (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

47 year-old lady with a uterine fibroid with profuse

bleeding. Associated with pain and weakness. During

the course of interview she expresses sensations of

strangulation/oppression with gestures. Feels locked in

a cage. Feels crippled. In describing the sensation, she

expresses sensitivities towards animal issues, especially

with mammals and of lioness with which she identifies

most strongly, Lac leoninum 1M. There was initial < of

congestion in breast and then 10 weeks later normal

periods. 16 months later, USG revealed no fibroids.

[Because the patient identified herself with lioness she

was given Lac leininum! = KSS].

54. A Bitch or a Nun

A case of Naja tripudians

FRISCHKNECHT, Pablo (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

A 47 year-old with depression related to her

menstrual cycle. She feels she has neglected her duty.

Strong anticipatory anxiety. Fear of losing control.

Feels antagonism with herself. Desires alcohol which

aggravates. She feels strongly victimized. Sensation of

lump in throat. Naja tripudians Q9 once a day.

Five weeks later Ŕ anxiety decreased. Better before

menses.

10 weeks later Ŕ Depression gone. Naja Q10.

6 months later Ŕ Menstrual cycle improved. Coryza at

night. Naja 1M.

8 months later Ŕ Relapse of Depression. Naja 1M.

9 months later Ŕ Erysipelas on nose. Painful. Naja

70M.

In the next few years, a dose of CM.

55. Nature vs. Nurture in Homœopathy:

Toward an Environmental View of Homœopathic

Space

ROWE, Todd (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

This article presents an environmental approach to

homœopathic case analysis. Rather than focusing on

Ŗnatureŗ based familial classifications, it explores the

use of Ŗnurtureŗ based biomes. The Desert is chosen as

a representative biome and themes, sensations and

energies are explored for this particular biome. A case

example of hyperlipidemia is presented using the desert

biome classification and the remedy Carnegia gigantea

(Saguaro Cactus) was prescribed curatively.

56. The Gold series Stages 8 & 13

Osmium & Thallium

SEVAR, Raymond (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

Case 1: Brendan, 41 years, with IBS for 8 years.

Worse from alcohol. Burning in abdomen.

Conscientious. He is hard, serious, emotionally cold, at

war with his illness by starving. Indicates heavy metal

of Syphilitic Miasm. High powered manager leads to

gold series. Aurum metallicum 200. Improved after

initial <. In the next five years few doses of 30, 200,

1M 10M & 50M, but relapse. Excellent response to

Aurum indicates a related medicine Ŕ of gold series.

Osmium is hard, and resistant to pressure. Osmium

metallicum 30. Clear improvement in 2 weeks. In the

next 2 years as and when needed Osmium 200.

Case 2: Miriam 62, short, fat, asthmatic, cramps in

legs, indigestion. Eczema as a child. Depressed.

Recurrent dream of sliding down a bank into deep

water. Sulphur 30. Asthma was bad for 6 days after the

medicine and then better. In the next one year few more

doses and then sadness returns with a feeling of being

sidelined, useless and finished Ŕ indicates stage 13.

Thallium metallicum 30. In the next 3 months few more

doses.

57. A constitutional remedy for a Burn

LEVANON, Dafna (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

60 year-old, had Mastitis. Belladonna 200 relieved.

Then a hot glass of tea fell on her arm and caused severe

Burn. Cantharis 200 brought slight improvement.

Arnica, Calendula, Gel. did not help. So an underlying

constitutional dyscrasia for slow and deficient healing

was suspected. Sad and complicated family situation.

Pale, trembling, nervous, frightened, bottled inside.

Feels guilty, restricted. Carcinosin 200. Healed

rapidly.

58. A case of Chikungunya Fever

USUF, Mass R. (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

42 year-old monk with great prostration, highly

febrile, severe frontal headache with vertigo and

crippling body pain. Severe physical and mental

restlessness. Fear, weakness of lower limbs, weak

pulse, b/l edema, worse after midnight, Arsenicum

album 30, two doses. > and Relapse. Ledum 200 as it

was due to mosquito bite. Eupatorium 30c tds x 2 days.

Arthralgia & Myalgia receded. Lecithin 12x Ŕ to

counter low vitality and symptoms of general

breakdown.

The patient experienced his complaints receding

fast and he felt much better. His mental symptoms

receded dramatically and his physical restlessness

abruptly. He finally had command of his mental

faculties were evident by the slight smile that lit his

otherwise despondent countenance.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 20

59. Leitsymptom Husten Ŕ Therapie Ŕ möglichkeiten

mit Homöopathie

(Leading Symptom Cough Ŕ Therapeutic

possibilities with Homœopathy)

LUCAE, Christian (ZKH. 53, 2 & 3/2009)

Cough is a symptom for which a number of patients

came to us. The cough could be due to Bronchitis, or

even Pneumonia or anyother serious disease. Whatever

may be, the homœopathic remedies will help speedy

restoration of health.

The author cites from cases Ŕ each case to indicate

the technique adopted to find the homœopathic remedy.

In one it was a Nosode, on the basis of the diagnosis. In

the next it was a characteristic Řmodalityř; in the third

the Řgeneralř and Řmindř symptoms lead to the remedy;

and lastly a ŖKey Noteŗ lead to the right remedy.

60. Ranunculus bulbosus bei Heuschnupfen Ŕ

Arzneifindung mit einen neuen Repertorium

(Ranunculus bulbosus in Hay Fever Remedy

selection with a new Repertory)

LUCAE, Christian, DAHLER, Jörn & TEUT,

Michael (ZKH. 53, 4/2009)

Homœopathic treatment of Hayfever requires

different strategies depending upon the symptoms of the

patient. In three cases the prescription was Ranunculus

bulbosus selected with the help of a new Hay Fever

Repertory. The characteristics symptoms as well as the

original Proving symptoms of the remedy also come

into the discussion.

61. Kinderzeichnungen in der Homöopathie Ŕ Haus

Baum-Mensch-Test und Tierfamilie als Wertvolle

Bereicherung bei der Findung der Gesamtheit der

Symptome

(Drawings of children in Homœopathy House,

Trees Ŕ humans Ŕ Test and animal family as

valuable for the totality of symptoms)

HADULLA, Michael, M., PFEIL Tinu, A.

(ZKH. 53, 4/2009)

Drawing by children of house, tree, persons,

animals, family, etc. are important in understanding the

state of disposition of the child. It would be of great

help in the selection of remedy.

Practical cases are narrated to impress this.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

IV. REPERTORY

1. Das Symptomen-Lexicon Ŕ Welches

Symptomenlexicon?

(The Symptoms dictionary Ŕ which symptoms

dictionary?)

KRITZENBERGER Irmgard (ZKH. 53, 2/2009)

Uwe PLATE has published a ŖSymptomen

Lexikonŗ sometime ago in 2004. This work was said to

fulfill Hahnemannřs wish for a reference source. The

author of this article analyses this work with regard to

what was meant by Symptoms-Lexicon in Hahnemannřs

time and whether the painstaking work of Uwe PLATE

can be reckoned so. Copious references to

HAHNEMANN, BOENNINGHAUSEN, HERING,

JAHR and others are quoted.

This work is to self study of the Materia Medica

and cannot be considered as a repertory to lead one to

find out suitable remedy for a given case.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

V. PHARMACOLOGY

1. Preliminary investigation of metal and metalloid

contamination of homœopathic products marketed

in Croatia

TUMIR, Hevoje, BOŠNIR, Jasna, VEDRINA-

DRAGOJEVIĆ, Irena, DRAGUN, Zrinka, TOMIĆ,

Siniša & PUNTARIĆ, Dinka (HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Background: Due to their popularity as a

complementary therapy in many diseases, homœopathic

products of animal, vegetable, mineral and chemical

origin should be tested for the presence of contaminants

to prevent eventual toxic effects.

Objective: Thirty samples of homœopathic products

were analyzed to estimate possible contamination with

potentially toxic elements: Pb, Cd, As, Hg, Cr, Ni and

Zn, and to assess human exposure to these

metals/metalloid as a consequence of their consumption.

Methods: Atomic absorption spectrometry was used to

determine metal and metalloid concentrations.

Results: Most tested products had very low

metal/metalloid levels (below the limit of quantification

of the method), but the metal/metalloid levels in the

remaining products were in the following ranges (in μg

g

-1

): Pb 0.33-1.29 (6 samples), Cd 2.78 (1 sample), As

0.22 (1 sample), Hg 0.02-0.12 (24 samples), Cr 0.40-

10.27 (10 samples), Ni 0.43-55.00 (19 samples), and Zn

2.20-27.80 (11 samples). In the absence of regulatory

standards for homœopathic products, the obtained

results were compared to maximum allowable levels

(MALs) as proposed by USP Ad hoc Advisory Panel.

Some analyzed preparations had metal levels above

MALs (Pb: 2 samples; Cd: 1 Sample; Ni: 2 samples).

However, estimated cumulative daily intakes from

tested homœopathic products were in all cases lower

than permitted daily exposures for all dosage forms.

Conclusion: The risk of bioaccumulation of

metals/metalloid from the homœopathic medicines

seems to be rather low, due to small quantities of those

products prescribed to be applied per day, as well as

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 21

insignificant metal contamination of the majority of

tested products. However, the fact that particular

formulations were contaminated by metals above MALs

indicates potential risk and points to the necessity of

regular monitoring of homœopathic products for metal

contamination, due to their frequent and mostly

unsupervised use.

2. LM or Q ? Signs and Symbol

FOURNIER, Denis (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

Samuel HAHNEMANN, in his posthumous 6

th

edition of the Organon, proposed a new process of

production of the remedy Ŕ the fifty millesimal.

However, in part owing to the secret development of it,

the issue of its denomination was not resolved. After a

brief review of the historical background of

designations for the new potency since HAHNEMANN,

we will see the suggestions of those who were, in the

20

th

century, the first ones to use them and help

maintain, even today, the confusion on this notation.

The choice is essentially between ŖLMŗ and ŖQŗ.

Arguments like the Latin rules for numbers and the

meanings of sign and symbol as determining factors to

name a homœopathic dynamisation will be the tools in

helping to solve the impasse. The conclusion is clear: Q

is the only coherent and justifiable symbol to appear on

the remedyřs label to identify the medicinal curative

power of such potency.

3. Dosage and Restoration of Health

Homœopathic Pharmacology

BEIJERING, Frank, J. (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

Homœopathy is based on the law of similars. From

Archimedes to Ralleighjeans (thermic equilibrium), all

natural laws can be expressed via a mathematical

equation. Homœopathyřs law of similars apparently

was an exception in this respect. This article aims to

provide an equation for the law of similars.

4. Die Entwicklung einer neuen Potenziermaschine

(The development of a new potentising machine)

RYFFEL-HAUSCH, Jacqueline

(ZKH. 53, 2/2009)

The pharmaceutical firm who are wellknown -

Spagyros Ŕ have been manufacturing genuine quality

homœopathic medicines. In so far as Homœopathy is

concerned we have no way of verifying the genuineness

of a medicine and have to simply trust the manufacturer.

We must concede that in general all the pharmacies

have been manufacturing passable quality medicines.

But what methods do they use? The ŘKorsakoffianř;

someone said that beyond a certain potency Ŕ say above

the 10M Ŕ the higher potencies are made by ŘRadionicsř

method Ŕ which cannot be in any way considered as

Řscientificř. Of course the 50 millesimal potency

manufacture is another. Clearly there is much that is

hazy and it is for the homœopaths to demand an

approved, correct method by all pharmacies.

The author is the chief of the manufacturing unit of

Spagyros and she has explained the need and relevance

of a new potentiser machine invented by her Firm and

its advantages. She has traced briefly the history of

homœopathic medicine potentiser Machines.

An interesting article.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

VI. VETERINARY

1. Homœopathic prescribing for chronic conditions in

feline and canine veterinary practice

MATHIE, T. Robert, BAITSON, S. Elizabeth,

HANSEN, Lise, ELLIOTT F. Mark & HOARE

John (HOM. 99, 4/2010)

Introduction: The peer-review literature contains no

controlled clinical research of Homœopathy in cats and

very little in dogs.

Main objective: To collect clinical outcomes data

systematically from individualized homœopathic

treatment of cats and dogs that would help to inform

controlled research in feline and canine Homœopathy.

Methods: Twenty-one homœopathic veterinary

surgeons recorded data systematically from consecutive

feline and canine patients over a 12 month period.

Records included: date; patient and owner identity

(anonymised); medical problem treated; whether new or

follow-up (FU) appointment; chronic or acute condition;

owner-assessed clinical outcome (7-point scale, range Ŕ

3 to +3) compared with first appointment.

Results: Data from 400 cats comprised a total of 372

individual chronic problems, of which 270 had FU

assessment. Data from 1504 dogs comprised a total of

1408 individual chronic problems, of which 1070 had

FU assessment. In both species, 22% of FUs in chronic

cases received conventional medicines concurrently. In

cats, 117 different chronic medical conditions in total

were treated with Homœopathy. Five of those

conditions included ≥ 20 cases, in which owner-reported

outcomes (in decreasing rank order of frequency) were:

dermatitis (69.6% patients with +2 or +3 outcome, 0%

patients with -2 or -3 outcome); renal failure (57.1%,

14.3%); overgrooming (57.1%, 7.2%); arthritis (80.0%,

0%); hyperthyroidism (66.7%, 0%). In dogs, of 301

different chronic medical conditions treated in total,

those most commonly recorded (≥ 20 cases) were:

dermatitis (66.2% with +2 or +3 outcome, 0% patients

with -2 or -3 outcome); renal failure (57.1%, 14.3%);

overgrooming (57.1% 7.2%); arthritis (80.0%, 0%);

hyperthyroidism (66.7%, 0%). In dogs, of 301 different

chronic medical conditions treated in total, those most

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 22

commonly recorded (≥ 20 cases) were: dermatitis

(66.2% with +2 or +3 outcome, 5.4% with Ŕ 2 or Ŕ 3

outcome); arthritis (80.2%, 0.8%); pyoderma (75.8%,

0%); colitis (85.2%, 0%); fear (31.6%, 0%); epilepsy

(63.6%, 4.5%); otitis external (72.7%, 0%); diarrhea

(68.2%, 0%); urinary incontinence (73.7%, 0%);

aggression (57.1%, 0%); spondylosis (81.0%, 0%);

lymphoma (40.0%, 6.7%).

Conclusions: A programme of controlled research in

veterinary Homœopathy for these feline and canine

conditions is clearly indicated.

2. Clinical Management of Anaemia Associated with

Babesiosis in Dogs with Trinitrotoluenum 200c

CHOUDHURI, S. & VARSHNEY, J.P.

(HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

Anaemia is an important accompaniment of canine

babesiosis, caused by Babesia gibsoni, owing to

haemolysis. If anaemia is not attended to in these cases,

it may prove fatal despite treatment with antibabesial

drugs. Twelve cases of anaemia associated with

babesiosis in dogs were treated with Trinitrotoluenum

200C in conjunction with the antibabesial drug

diminazine aceturate, while six other cases of anaemia

associated with babesiosis were treated with the

antibabesial drug diminazine aceturate only. The study

indicated that supportive therapy with Trinitrotoluenum

200C improved erythrocyte indices and was effective.

3. Homœopathic Approach to Separation Anxiety in

Dogs

LOUKAKI, Katerina & KIRKILESSI, Georgia

(HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

Separation anxiety (S.A.) in dogs is a behavioural

disease and is characterized as a petřs exaggerated fear

of separation from its owner(s). Homœopathy can

contribute to the treatment of these disorders. We

choose two homœopathic methods of approaching

animals: A) The specific characteristics are taken,

considering the factors that influence the idiosyncrasy

of the dog. B) The symptoms manifested by special

modalities are recorded and analysed only according to

the homœopathic repertory. Both methods have

advantages and disadvantages. With the help of the

homœopathic case history and the study of each cited

remedy, we can analyse the dogřs behavior that will

allow us to understand their idiosyncrasy and the

problematic picture that is presented, so we can

prescribe the simillimum.

4. Impfkomplikation bei einer tragenden Stute

(Vaccine complication in a Mare)

SOLAKOV Iris (ZKH. 53, 4/2011)

A load-carrying Mare suffered from a vaccine

complication which became life-threatening. Arsenicum

album M and later 10M brought the Mare back to

normalcy completely.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

VII. RESEARCH

1. A Prospective Multicentric Observational Study to

Determine the Usefulness of Predefined

Homœopathic Medicines In the Management of

Acute Diarrheal Disease in Children

NAYAK, C., SINGH, Vikram., SINGH, K.,

SINGH, Hari., SHARMA, Anita., OBERAI,

Praveen., ROJA, Varanasi., NAYAK, Debadatta.,

PADMANABHAN, Maya., MISHRA, Alok.,

SEHEGAL, G.C., KAUSHIK, Subhash.,

CHOWDHARY, C.P., SINGH, V.K., SAHID Ali.,

HIMA, Bindu., & SARKAR, D.B.

(AJHM. 102, 3/2009)

Background & Objectives: Acute diarrheal disease is

one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in

developing countries. No data regarding the pediatric

population suffering from acute diarrhea seeking

homœopathic treatment in India are available.

Therefore, an observational study on acute diarrheal

diseases in children was undertaken with fourteen

predefined trial homœopathic medicines in an effort to

identify a group of homœopathic medicines useful for

the treatment of acute childhood diarrhea.

Methods: A prospective, multi-center observational

study was conducted by the Central Council for

Research in Homœopathy at its various Institutes and

Units throughout India during October 2005 Ŕ

September 2008. A total of three hundred twenty-

seven children in the age-group 6 months to 12 years

were included. Trial medicines selected on the

principles of Homœopathy were prescribed and the

diarrhea index score was assessed before and after

treatment using SPSS (version 16).

Results: The difference in the mean number of stools

and diarrhea index score was found to be statistically

significant (p=0.000, <0.05) after the prescription of

trial homœopathic medicines in 321 children. The

diarrhea index score got either worsened or remained

unchanged from the baseline score in 6 (1.83%)

children. Of the 14 medicines half of them, viz.,

Podophyllum peltatum (n=158), Chamomilla(n=49),

Aethusa cynapium (n=25), Mercurius solubilis (n=23),

Calcarea carbonica (n=21), Sulphur (n=18), and

Phosphorus (n=17) were found to be most useful among

the 14 predefined trial medicines.

Conclusion: This was an Observational study with

positive results requiring further validation by suitable

Randomized Control Trial(s).

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 23

2. Case history: Individualised Homœopathy and

Severe Chronic idiopathic Neutropenia (SCN)

POOLE, Jennifer (HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Background: Severe Chronic Neutropenia (SCN)

places the sufferer at increased risk of bacterial

infection, often requiring emergency hospital admission

and long-term antibiotic treatment.

Method: A single clinical case study of idiopathic SCN

in a boy of 3 years and 8 months at the start of treatment

individualized, classical homœopathic treatment was

given. Neutrophil count was measured at: 5, 17, 21, 29

and 41 months after commencing treatment.

Results: Low neutrophil count (0.6 and 0.3 x 10

9

/L)

was documented for 17 months prior to commencing

treatment. After 17 months of individualized

Homœopathy, neutrophil count was 1.74, rising to 2.22

at 21 and 3.4 at 29 months treatment. Forty-one months

after commencing treatment netrophil count was 3.8

with an intermediate peak of 9 recorded during the year.

As the child found the procedure distressing, blood

testing was then discontinued by the parents.

Conclusions: The child received no other treatment,

including complementary medicine or antibiotics, while

receiving homœopathic treatment. Individualized

homœopathic intervention may be the catalyst for the

resolution of idiopathic SCN in this case. However, as

this was a single case, a controlled study is

recommended as a next step.

3. Chelidonium majus 30c and 200c in induced

hepato-toxicity in rats

BANERJEE, Antana., PHATAK, Surajit.,

BISWAS, Surjyo Jyoti., KARMAKAR-Susanta

Roy., BOUJEDAINI, Naoual., BELON, Philippe &

KHUDA-BUKHSH, Anisur Rahman.

(HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Introduction: Homœopathy is a popular form of

complementary and alternative medicine and is used to

treat for certain liver ailments.

Aim: To analyze the efficacy of homœopathic

Chelidonium majus (Chel) 30C and 200C in

amelioration of experimentally induced hepato-toxicity

in rats.

Methods: Rats were randomized into six sub-groups:

negative control; negative control + EtOH; positive

control; positive control + EtOH group; Chel.30; Chel.

200. Rats were sacrificed at day 30, 60, 90, and 120;

various toxicity biomarkers and pathological parameters

were evaluated. Gelatin zymography for determination

of metalloproteinases activity and Western blot of p53

and Bcl-2 proteins were also employed. All analyses

were observer blind.

Results: Chronic feeding of p-dimethyl amino azo

benzene (p-DAB) and Phenobarbital (PB) elevated the

levels of aspartate aminotransferase (ALT), gamma

glutamyl transferase (GGT), lactate dehydrogenase

(LDH), triglyceride, cholesterol, creatinine and bilirubin

and lowered the levels of glutathione (GSH), glucose-6-

phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD), catalase and HDL-

cholesterol. There were statistically significant

modulations of these parameters in the treated animals,

compared to positive controls. In both treated groups,

there was downregulation of metalloproteinases, p53

and Bcl-2 proteins compared to over-expression in the

positive control groups.

Conclusion: Both the potencies of Chel. exhibited anti-

tumor and anti-oxidative stress potential against

artificially induced hepatic tumors and hepato-toxicity

in rats. More studies are warranted. [What for Řmore

studiesř? At whose expense? Action of Chel. In so far

its homœopathic form is well-known to every

homœopath. It is immaterial whether it acts in rats and

cats, etc. Why should Homœopathy copy the

conventional Medicine ideas? = KSS]

4. Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor

expression in KATO-III cells after Helicobacter

pylori stimulation under the influence of Strychnos

Nux vomica and Calendula officinalis

HOFBAUER, Roland., PASCHING, Eva.,

MOSER, Doris., FRASS, Michael.

(HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Introduction: Previous studies have shown the

stimulating effect of Helicobacter pylori on the gene

expression of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor

(HB-EGF) using the gastric epithelial cell line KATO-

III. Strychnos Nux vomica (Nux vomica) and

Calendula officinalis are used in highly diluted form in

homœopathic medicine to treat patients suffering from

gastritis and gastric ulcers.

Aim and method: To investigate the influence of Nux

vomica and Calendula officinalis on HB-EGF-like

growth factor gene expression in KATO-III cells under

the stimulation of H. pylori strain N6 using real-time

PCR with and without addition of Nux vomica and

Calendula officinalis as a 10c or 12c potency.

Results: Baseline expression and stimulation were

similar to previous experiments, addition of Nux vomica

10c and Calendula officinalis 10c in a 43% ethanolic

solution led to a significant reduction of H.pylori

induced increase in gene expression of HB-EGF

(reduced to 53.12 ± 0.95% and 75.32 ± 1.16% vs.

control; p <0.05), respectively. Nux vomica 12c

reduced HB-EGF gene expression even in dilutions

beyond Avogadrořs number (55.77 ± 1.09%; p < 0.05).

This effect was only observed when the drugs were

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 24

primarily prepared in ethanol, not in aqueous solutions.

The data suggest that both drugs prepared in ethanolic

solution are potent inhibitors of H. pylori induced gene

expression.

5. Database on veterinary clinical research in

Homœopathy

CLAUSEN, Jürgen & ALBRECHT, Henning

(HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Objective: The aim of the present report is to provide

an overview of the first database on clinical research in

veterinary Homœopathy.

Procedures: Detailed searches in the database

ŘVeterinary Clinical Research-Database in

Homœopathyř (http://www.carstens Ŕ

stiftung.de/clinresvet/index.php).

Results: The database contains about 200 entries of

randomized clinical trials, non-randomised clinical

trials, observational studies, drug proving, case reports

and case series. Twenty-two clinical fields are covered

and eight different groups of species are included. The

database is free of charge and open to all interested

veterinarians and researchers.

Conclusions: The database enables researchers and

veterinarians, skeptics and supporters to get a quick

overview of the status of veterinary clinical research in

Homœopathy and alleviates the preparation of

systematical reviews or may stimulate reproductions or

even new studies.

6. Semi-standardised homœopathic treatment of

premenstrual syndrome with a limited number of

medicines: Feasibility study

KLEIN-LAANSMA, CT., JANSEN, JCH., VAN

TILBORGH AJW, VAN DER WINDT DAWM,

MATHIE RT. & RUTTEN ALB

(HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Background: Individualised Homœopathy involves a

large number of possible medicines. For clinical

research purposes it is desirable to limit this number,

create more consistency between prescribers and

optimizing the accuracy of prescription. Using a semi-

standardised treatment protocol, we aimed to improve

homœopathic management of targeted subgroups of

women with premenstrual syndrome/symptoms

(PMS/S).

Objectives: To design a semi-standardised protocol for

individualized prescribing in PMS/S with a limited

number of homœopathic medicines, and to explore the

feasibility of working with it in daily homœopathic

practice.

Methods: With help of an expert panel, homœopathic

medicines were selected, as well as predictive

symptoms and characteristics (keynotes) for each

medicine. With those, we designed a patient

questionnaire and a diagnostic algorithm. The patient

questionnaire contained 123 questions, representing

potential predictive symptoms for 11 homœopathic

medicines for PMS/S. The medicines selected (in rank

order) were Sep., Nat-m., Lach., Cimic., Lac-c., Puls.,

Calc., Lil-t., Mag-p., Mag-c., Phos.

In a feasibility study 20 homœopathic doctors used

the protocol in daily practice. The diagnosis was

confirmed by daily rating of pre-defined symptoms

during two consecutive menstrual cycles. The

acceptability and feasibility of the protocol were

evaluated after 3 months follow-up, at which time we

also measured changes in premenstrual symptom scores

and patient-reported changes in symptoms and general

health.

Results: The doctors mostly complied with the

protocol and valued the computerized diagnostic

algorithm as a useful tool for homœopathic medicine

selection. 33 patients completed 3 months follow-up.

By then, 19 patients still taking the first medicine on the

basis of the algorithm. We received valid symptom

records of 30 patients. Premenstrual symptom scores

dropped by 50% or more in 12 patients and by 30-50%

in 6 patients; scores dropped by less than 30% or

increased in 12 patients. Recruitment of patients (n =

38 in 9 months) proved difficult. Adherence to the

diaries and the questionnaire was satisfactory.

Conclusions: It is feasible to use a semi-standardised

protocol for individualized homœopathic prescribing in

PMS/S helped by the selected medicines remain to be

evaluated in further research. In future research, active

promotion will be needed to recruit patients.

7. Dose-effect study of Gelsemium sempervirens in

high dilutions on anxiety-related responses in mice

MAGNANI, P., CONFORTI, A., ZANOLIN E.,

MARZOTTO, M., BELLAVITE, P.

(HOM. 99, 4/2010)

Introduction: This study was designed to investigate

the putative anxiolytic-like activity of ultra-low doses of

Gelsemium sempervirens (G. sempervirens), produced

according to the homœopathic pharmacopeia.

Methods: Five different centesimal (C) dilutions of G.

sempervirens (4C, 5C, 7C, 9C and 30C), the drug

buspirone (5 mg/kg) and solvent vehicle were delivered

intraperitoneally to groups of ICR-CD1 mice over a

period of 9 days. The behavioral effects were assessed

in the open-field (OF) and light-dark (LD) tests in blind

and randomized fashion.

Results: Most G. sempervirens dilutions did not affect

the total distance travelled in the OF (only the 5C had

an almost significant stimulatory effect on this

parameter), indicating that the medicine caused no

sedation effects or unspecific changes in locomotor

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 25

activity. In the same test, buspirone induced a slight but

statistically significant decrease in locomotion. G.

sempervirens showed a little stimulatory activity on the

time spent and distance travelled in the central zone of

the OF, but this effect was not statistically significant.

In the LD test, G. sepervirens increased the %time spent

in the light compartment, an indicator of anxiolytic-like

activity, with a statistically significant effect using the

5C, 9C and 30C dilutions. The number of transitions

between the compartments of the LD test markedly

increased with G. sempervirens 5C, 9C and 30C

dilutions. (Psychopharmacology 2010; 210: 533-545.)

8. Comparative Analysis of Gelsemine and

Gelsemium sempervirens: Activity on

Neurosteroid Allopregnanolone Formation in the

Spinal Cord and Limbic system

VENARD,C., BOUJEDAINE, N., MENSAH-

NYAGAN, AG. & PATTE-MENSAH, C.

(HOM. 99, 4/2010)

Centesimal dilutions (5, 9 and 15 cH) of Gelsemium

sempervirens are claimed to be capable of exerting

anxiolytic and analgestic effects. However, basic

results supporting this assertion are rare, and the

mechanism of action of G. sempervirens is completely

unknown. [Almost every practicing homœopath gives

Gelsemium in Řanxietyř related complaints and gets

positive results. = KSS]. To clarify the point, we

performed a comparative analysis of the effects of

dilutions 5, 9 and 15 cH of G. sempervirens or

gelsemine (the major active principle of G.

sempervirens) on allopregnanolone (3a, 5a-THP)

production in the rat limbic system (hippocoampus and

amyhgdala or HŕA and SC are two pivotal structures

controlling, respectively, anxiety and pain that are also

modulated by the neurosteroid 3a, 5a-THP. At the

dilution 5 cH, both G. sempervirens and gelsemine

stimulated [3H] progesterone conversion into [3H]3a,

5a-THP by HŕA and SC slices, and the stimulatory

effect was fully (100%) reproducible in all assays. The

dilution 3a, 5a-THP formation in HŕA and SC but the

reproducibility rate decreased to 75%. At 15 cH of G.

sempervirens and gelsemine (5 cH) on 3a, 5a-THP

production was blocked by strychnine, the selective

antagonist of glycine receptors. Altogether, these

results, which constitute the first basic demonstration of

cellular effects of G. sempervirens, also offer interesting

possibilities for the improvement of G. sempervirens-

based therapeutic strategies.

(ecam 2009; doi:10.1093/ecam/nep083.)

9. Dissipative Structures in Extremely Diluted

Solutions of Homœopathic Medicines: A Molecular

Model Based on Physico-chemical and Gravimetric

Evidences

ELIA, V., NAPOLI, E. (HOM. 99, 4/2010)

Conductometric and pHmetric titrations of

extremely diluted solutions (EDS) were performed by

adding NaOH or HC1 solutions at concentrations

between 1 x 10

-2

M 1 x 10-3 M. the aim of this work is

to obtain further confirmation of the hypothesized

presence, in the EDS, of molecular aggregates of water

molecules. The measurements on the EDS evidenced

some relevant differences compared to those on

solutions with just water as solvent. The conductivity

and the pH variations caused by adding the titrant,

namely NaOH or HC1 were markedly different to those

of the control solutions. We suppose that the

preparation procedure of the EDS could produce non-

equilibrium changes in the supramolecular structure of

water.

The experimental results were interpreted by

considering the interactions that can take place between

the OH

--

or H

3

O

+

and the hypothesized molecular

aggregates of water molecules, i.e. dissipative

structures. A qualitative comparison was made about

the nature of the driving force that leads to the

formation of the complexes between the two ions

deriving from water and the molecular aggregates of

water molecules (dissipative structures). In this woRk

we have introduced a new methodology to study the

EDS and to have more information about the presence

of the dissipative structures, i.e. the gravimetric

analysis. We evaporate a known quantity of the EDS at

90ºC for 36ŕ48 h, and compare the obtained quantity

of solid with the expected one given the chemical

composition of the liquid, obtained via analytical

measurements: atomic absorption and ICP mass. We

systematically obtain that the experimental results are

higher than the expected ones. The ratio of the obtained

and expected results is about 3:2, putting in evidence

that some water remains stable even after a very long

treatment at 90ºC. A linear correlation is obtained

between the solid weight in excess, i.e. the difference

between the experimental weight of the solid obtained

after the complete evaporation of bulky water and the

expected weight according to the chemical composition,

Δ mg, and the conductivity in excess, namely the

difference between the experimental conductivity and

the expected one according to the chemical

composition, X

E

r.

(Int. J of Design & Nature and Ecodynamics 2010; 5:

39-48).

10. Research into the language of the patient:

Improving clinical outcomes

POINDEXTER Beth., KOITHAN Mary., BELL

Iris, R. (AH. 15, 2009)

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 26

This paper describes qualitative, quantitative, and

mixed-method approaches to linguistic inquiry that can

be applied by the discipline of Homœopathy to improve

proving research and clinical outcomes. In a previous

article published in The American Homeopath, Bell

(2008) provided an overview of the state of

homœopathic research and possible new directions for

developing clinically relevant research. The current

paper expands on specific methodological techniques

that can be used to examine the individualřs use of

language to determine the characteristic effects of new

remedies in proving and to select the simillimum for

patients in the clinical setting.

11. Extreme homœopathic dilutions retain starting

materials: A nanoparticulate perspective

CHIKRAMANE, Prashant Satish, SURESH, K.

Akkihebbal, BELLARE Jayesh Ramesh & KANE

Shantaram Govind (HOM. 99, 4/2010)

Homœopathy is controversial because medicines in

high potencies such as 30c and 200c involve huge

dilution factors (10

60

and 10

400

respectively) which are

many orders of magnitude greater than Avogadrořs

number, so that theoretically there should be no

measurable remnants of the starting materials. No

hypothesis which predicts the retention of properties of

starting materials has been proposed nor has any

physical entity been shown to exist in these high

potency medicines. Using market samples of metal-

derived medicines from reputable manufacturers, we

have demonstrated for the first time by Transmission

Electron Microscopy (TEM), electron diffraction and

chemical analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma-

Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES), the

presence of physical entities in these extreme dilutions,

in the form of nanoparticles of the starting metals and

their aggregates.

12. Homœopathic Symphytum officinale increases

removal torque and radiographic bone density

around titanium implants in rats

NETO-Rubens Spin., BELLUCI, Marina Montosa.,

SAKAKURA, Celso Eduardo., SCAF, Gulnara.,

PEPATO, Maria Teresa & MARCANTONIO, Jr.

Elcio (HOM. 99, 4/2010)

Introduction: This study evaluated the effect of

Symphytum officinale in homœopathic potency (6cH),

on the removal torque and radiographic bone density

around titanium implants, inserted in rats tibiae.

Methods: Implants were placed in male rat tibiae, and

the animals randomized to two groups (Control and S.

officinale 6cH treated), which were evaluated at 7, 14,

28 and 56 days post-implantation. Radiographic bone

density was measured at 6 points around the implant,

using digital radiographic images, when implants were

inserted and at sacrifice. Removal torque of the

implants was also evaluated.

Results: Both removal torque and radiographic bone

density evaluation showed that S. officinale 6cH

treatment enhanced bone formation around the micro-

implants, mainly at 14 days. At 56 days, the

radiographic bone density was higher in the treated

group.

Conclusions: we conclude that S. officinale 6cH

enhances, principally at the early stages of

osseointegration, bone formation around titanium

implants in ratsř tibiae, based on radiographic and

mechanical analysis.

13. Statins withdrawal, vascular complications,

rebound effect and similitude

TEIXEIRA, Marcus Zulian (HOM. 99, 4/2010)

HAHNEMANN considered the secondary action of

medicines to be a law of nature and reviewed the

conditions under which it occurs. It is closely related to

the rebound effects observed with many modern drugs.

I review the evidence of the rebound effect of statins

that support the similitude principle. In view of their

indications in primary and secondary prevention of

cardiovascular diseases, statins are widely prescribed.

Besides reducing cholesterol biosynthesis, they provide

vasculoprotective effects (pleiotropic effects), including

improvement of endothelial function, increased nitric

oxide bioavailability, antioxidant properties, inhibition

of inflammatory and thrombogenic responses,

stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques, and others.

Recent studies suggest that suspension of statin

treatment leads to a rebound imparing of vascular

function, and increasing morbidity and mortality in

patients with vascular diseases. Similarly to other

classes of modern palliative drugs, this rebound effect is

the same as a secondary action or vital reaction

described by Samuel HAHNEMANN, and used in

Homœopathy in a therapeutic sense.

14. Infection models in basic research on Homœopathy

CLAUSEN, Jürgen., WIJK, Van Roeland &

ALBRECHT Henning (HOM. 99, 4/2010)

Introduction: The objective of this study was to search

for effective agents for the treatment of infections in

animals or infected cell lines.

Methods: The Homœopathic Basic Research

experiments (HomBRex) database

(http://www.carstens-stiftung.de/hombrex) on model

biological systems in homœopathic research was

searched. Eligible experiments were reviewed and

analysed.

Results: The database contains 48 eligible experiments

published from 1832 to 2009. Causative pathogens

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 27

were bacteria, fungi, viruses, proto- and metazoan. In

the experiments, various parameters were observed and

a large set of medicines was investigated. In eight of

the 48 experiments, at least one of the investigated

medicines was selected according to the similia

principle. Nosodes and homœopathic complexes were

investigated in 8 and 14 experiments respectively. Mice

were the most often used host organisms (13

experiments). In 31 experiments at least one

homœopathic medicine was found effective for

treatment.

Conclusion: the results of basic research experiments

may invigorate new clinical trials that investigate

complementary treatments for infectious diseases.

However, all experiments reviewed here await

replication and no clear-cut conclusion can be drawn

regarding the transferability of in vitro results to in vivo

outcomes.

15. Efficacy of Homœopathy in childhood Asthmas

MOHAN, G.R. (HL. 20, 4/2007)

This is an open study of 81 cases of Asthma in

various paediatric age groups who received only

homœopathic treatment for two years. The remedies

were prescribed by individualizing each case. The

study showed that asthmatic attacks due to a variety of

causes, like exercise, infection and allergy, could be

treated successfully with Homœopathy. Exacerbations

and the use of nebulizers were reduced, and the

asymptomatic period prolonged.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

VIII. HISTORY

1. Hong Kong Homœopathy: How it arrived and how

it connected with Chinese medicine

FAN, Ka-wai (HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Translated as ŘShunshi Liaofař in Mandarin,

Homœopathy received considerable attention from local

physicians, thanks to Dr. Heribert SCHMIDT who

shared his views on the similarities between this western

medical therapy and Chinese medicine during his visit

to Hong Kong in 1954. Considered widely as non-

scientific and superstitious, Chinese medicine was

pushed to the periphery during the 1950s. On the

contrary, adopted by western advanced countries,

Homœopathy was generally regarded as scientific and

reliable. Schmidtřs acknowledgement of the scientific

roots of Chinese medicine excited many traditional

therapists. The purpose of this paper is to trace the

history of how Homœopathy was introduced to Hong

Kong and discuss its relationship with scientification of

Chinese medicine.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

IX. GENERAL

1. The Heart of the Volunteer

SMITH, Suzanne, J. (AH. 15/2009)

The heart of volunteerism is taking the first step Ŕ

whether itřs to volunteer at a soup kitchen or proofread

an article. Itřs giving oneself whether for an hour, a day

or a month. Itřs giving, not just of oneřs time but of

oneřs heart and spirit. It keeps us whole, reminds us we

are part of the wheel of life and as part of this wheel, we

become more empathetic people and that makes us

better homeopaths. When you reach out you are

rewarded. By reaching out to others, you develop a

sense of inter connectedness to your community, to your

country, to your profession or to the world.

2. International cooperation in support of

Homœopathy and complementary medicine in

developing countries: the Tuscan experience

ROSSI, Elio., STEFANO, Di Mariella.,

BACCETTI, Soniam., FIRENZUOLI, Fabio.,

VERDONE, Marco., FACCHINI, Mario.,

STAMBOLOVICH, Vuk., VIÑA, Martha Perez &

CALDÉS, Maria José. (HOM. 99, 4/2010)

Health is a fundamental human right which

contributes to reducing poverty, and encourages social

development, human safety, and economic growth.

International initiatives have fallen far short of their

goals. This paper describes collaboration between the

region of Tuscany and Cuba, Western Sahara, Senegal

and Serbia. These have introduced various forms of

Complementary and Alternative Medicine, including

Homœopathy and Traditional Chinese Medicine into

primary healthcare particularly obstetrics, and into

veterinary medicine.

Complementary and traditional medicine can

represent a useful and sustainable resource in various

fields of health care. Inclusion in the public health

system must go hand in hand with scientific evaluation.

3. My Tryst with PC

Individualising Examinations of PC-Cancer and

PC-AIDS

SHUKLA, Chetna (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

The need for a scientific inquiry led me into an

Individualizing Examination of two PC remedies

(Cancer and AIDS) designed by Peter CHAPPELL. I

can now validate the claim that PC remedies are

Homœopathic Disease Specific. The gestalt that

surfaced in the PC-Cancer proving was archetypal for

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 28

Cancer and that PC-AIDS for AIDS. Like any other

proving this is not complete because the whole of the

elements of the disease that PC-Cancer/AIDS can/is

capable of producing can only be brought to anything

like completeness by numerous observations (§ 135) to

the point where subsequent experimenters can notice

little of a novel character from its action, and almost

always only the same symptoms as had been already

observed by others. But these first proving convince me

beyond doubt that they have definite sphere of action.

The emerged image talks of an energy pattern similar to

that of the usual disease images of respective diseases

(call it prototype or archetypal) which makes the

remedies homœopathic for these diseases.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

X. BOOKS

I. SEIDENDER, A.: Heilmittelarchiv,

Homöopathische Materia Medica Ŕ 6 Bände,

(German) Kanderr, Narayana; 2008. 12064 S.geb.

preis Є890. Review Thomas GENNEPER. (ZKH. 53,

3/2009).

ŖA thorough and much a pathfinder work like this

deserves detailed reviews. Armin SEIDENDER is an

expert in Materia Medica Study particularly Ŗdetails of

the drugs in Homœopathyŗ so far known, and he has

now in 12,064 pages covered 1380 medicines. The

source for the book are the 19

th

century references

which form the ground work of Classical Homœopathy.

Literature of present day are considered where relevant,

and thus there are about 550 source literature in which

the major are 160 sources. Journals like AHZ and ZKH

are also in place …. Can be recommended to every

Practitioner; it makes Materia Medica comparison

easier…. This volumes could be reckoned as standard

reference work….ŗ.

II. Kombinierte Arzneimittel in der Homöopathie,

SPRINGER, WITTNER, H. (Combination

Medicines in Homœopathy) Stuttgart, Haug: 2008.

195s. Karl Preis Є 39.95. (German) review Elizabeth

HÄCKER-STROBUSCH. (ZKH. 53, 3/2009).

Ŗ… This is a first work on this. W. SPRINGER has

written a Foreword to help us the further study. …. 23

salts are dealt with in this Ŕ from Alumina phosphorica

over Calcarea arsenicosa to Natrium silicicum… In my

relaxed reading of the individual drugs the pictures

came up before my internal eye and I pick up this book

oftenŗ.

III. Hahnemannřs Krankenjournal D22 (1821):

Transcription und KommentorBand von Markus

MORTSCH. (Case Register D.22 (1821): Transcription

and commentary volume): Herausgeben von Robert

JÜTTE Institut für Geschichte der Medizin der Robert

Bosch Stiftung, Stuttgart. 2008. Geb. 948s.

(Transkription) /249s. (Kommentarband.) Preis

Є129.95. (German) review Christian LUCAE (ZKH. 53,

3/2009).

The Case Register D22 has been transcribed by

Marcus MORTSCH with commentary; this was taken

up by the University Bochum 2005 as medicohistorical

dissertation. The period covers February to October

1821. Since HAHNEMANN shifted from Leipzig to

Koethen in June 1821 there are patients from both and

one may study the type of patients in a large city and a

small town. 415 patients were treated during this

period.

By reconstructing HAHNEMANNřS Practice

Markus MORTSCH has given very interesting

accounts: Sulphur was the most often prescribed with

1417 prescriptions in 108 forms; Stannum alone

between Feb. and March with 198 prescriptions so often

prescribed! Nitric acid and Thuja were close by. Many

symptoms were marked with N.B.

Excellently researched workŗ.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

XI. OBITUARY

1. In Memoriam

Dorothy COOPER: 30 June 1915-29 December 2008.

(SPENCE, David. HOM. 99, 2/2010).

Dorothy COOPER was born on 30

th

June 1915 on

highgate Hill to a London business family.

In 1934, she passed her First MB at Croydon High

School and obtained a place at the London School of

Medicine for Women.

In 1948, she entered General Practice with the

inception of the NHS. She frequently attended Faculty

meetings and lectures in London, being taught by

amongst others, Sir John WEIR, Dr Lees

TEMPLETON, Dr. Hamish BOYD and Dr. Elizabeth

WRIGHT-HUBBARD.

In 1954, she was asked to take over the Bath

Homœopathic Clinic, a charity endowed in 1849. She

was very interested in and undertook much study of the

Nosodes. Dr. Foubisterřs work on the Carcinosin and

later Folliculinum fascinated her and she studied and

discussed these with him. She wrote a number of

excellent papers for the British Homœopathic Journal.

Her singular contribution will long be remembered.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

XII. NEWS & NOTES

I. Presidents Message: HOOVER, Todd, A.

National Healthcare Policy & Homœopathy. (AJHM.

102, 3/2009).

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 29

President Obama is driving healthcare policy

toward three goals:

1. Quality, affordable and portable health coverage for

all.

2. Moderating the U.S. healthcare system to lower

costs and improve quality.

3. Promoting prevention and strengthening public

health.

The Integrative Healthcare policy consortium,

which represents multiple members of the

complementary and Alternative Medicine Community

was instrumental in passing an amendment to expand

the definition of healthcare providers, for the purposes

of bill, to include the following: Licenced

Complementary and alternative medicine providers and

integrative health practitioners.

Unlicensed providers wish to be included in

potential reimbursement structures, so they prefer the

language in upcoming bills as Řcertifiedř practitioners as

opposed to Řlicensedř practitioners.

Many such relevant issues are being discussed

within the Homœopathic Action Alliance.

II. LIGA Conference Report

WARSAW, POLAND 26-30 Aug. 2009.

HILTNER, Richard (AJHM. 102, 4/2009).

The theme of 64

th

LMHI Congress: Timeless

quality of Homœopathy on 26

th

August evening, the

President Elzbieta-Dernalowicz Ŕ Malarczyk elaborated

the strong history of Homœopathy in Poland.

Ulrich FISCHER, highlighted the work of LIGA in

a number of countries.

Lex RUTTEN gave the opening lecture on the

ŖLancet Reviewŗ.

On 27

th

, Ton NICOLAI reflected on Homœopathy

as a Integrative Medicine.

Radko TICHAVSKY spoke about perspectives of

Agro-Homœopathy which is economical practical and

amenable to very rustic conditions. There are

scientifically verified data.

Leon SCHEEPERS gave some wonderful details on

Homœopathy in Thailand.

Larysa HUTSOL described some fascinating

experiences teaching Homœopathy at Vinnytsia

National Medical University in Ukraine.

Vangelis ZAFEIRIOU, a Psychiatyrist, identified

similarities that exist between national ŖPersonality

characteristicsŗ of Japan, Greece, Italy, Germany and

Israel and the remedy pictures of Aurum, Sulphur,

Lycopodium, Nux vomica and Arsenicum album

respectively.

Gloria FEIGHELSTEIN delivered some important

information about the prophylactic dental treatment of

children. She emphasized the constitutional typing by

NEBEL, VANNIER, and EIZAYAGA. There were

especially three important remedies. Calcarea

carbonica, Calcarea phosphorica and Calcarea

fluorica. Each of these salts impregnate our teeth and

bones and thereby impart distinct different anatomical

characteristics, metabolic types, and disease

propensities.

Josef SCHMIDT discussed the notion of health in

the history of medicine, writings of HAHNEMANN and

Homœopathy.

Nunzia CHIARAMIDA expounded on what he

called ŖDarwinian Homœopathyŗ and biological basis

of diseases. Molecular genetics identifies the subtle

differences in the gene expressions on the basis of

variation. It permits the investigation of the

individuality of biological reactions to homœopathic

remedies. The study of homœopathic medicines

according to this approach enables a deeper knowledge

of the working mechanism of homœopathic substances

and of the biological bases of diseases. Many examples

of this approach were described.

Anna FURMANIUK described patients with anoxic

brain injuries. Over the past 25 years more than 50

cases of coma due to this pathology were successfully

treated. The role of Zincum sulphate and Carboneum

hydrogenisatum were emphasized.

Clinical Studies

Michael TEUT, et al., presented a paper on the

ŖHomœopathic treatment of Elderly Patients-A

Prospective Observational Studyŗ with 2 years follow

up. Disease severity demonstrated marked and

sustained improvements under homœopathic treatment

eventhough conventional medication was reduced.

Jaroslav CUPERA, delivered some case reports on

the effective use of Pyrogenium in cases of sepsis in

intensive care units.

Raymond SEVAR presented a fascinating case of a

58 year old woman with squamous cell bronchial

Carcinoma treated homœopathically. She has been

doing well for seven years.

Jonathan SHORE stressed the importance of

penetrating to the center in case taking.

Ashley ROSS discussed the evolution of an African

Materia Medica Ŕ a methodological overview of fifteen

proving.

Ronko ITAMURA presented two cases in which

the psychodynamics of Magnesia muriatica and

Magnesia carbonica were examined.

28.08.09

Research

Michael van WASSENHOVEN gave an excellent

discourse on his favorite subject: Evidence Based

Homœopathy. He gave specific data on different

studies on allergic conditions, including: Randomized

Controlled Trials (RCT); Economic surveys; Quality of

Life; Clinical Verification.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 30

Lex RUTTEN, discussed on likelihood ratio and

Bayesian algorithm

Karin LENGER, gave what could prove to be an

historic presentation on how homœopathic medicines

work, by two Magnetic Resonance Methods Ŕ Tesla coil

method and the modified photomultiplier method.

Izel BOTHA explored a systemic review of the

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy studies of

the physico-chemical structure of homœopathic

dilutions.

Nikolay ZAMARENOV spoke for his colleagues in

the Russian Homœopathic Association about the

method of Crystallography in Homœopathy.

Chiaramida NUNZIO and clement LAURA

developed a fascinating paper on the Ŗhomœopathic

symptoms of allopathic drugsŗ.

Markus DUNTOSCH gave an original paper on

finding the remedy based on the color preference of the

patient.

Veterinary & Agro-Homœopathy

O.I. DINCHENKO related a variety of cases

associated with good results in veterinary medicine in

Russia with combination remedies. (!)

Elzbieta MISZCZAK Ŕ DZIADOSZ gave a very

useful and optimistic report on the treatment of cats

with worm infestation (Helminthiasis) with Calcarea

carbonica in high potency. In addition to a radical

regression of pathological symptoms, Calcarea

carbonica provoked the massive expulsion of worms

and improvement of aggressive behavior. Regarding

dogs she said that she found Phosphorus as very

effective in treating the symptoms often associated with

this medicine. Thirst for cold water which is vomited

after it becomes warm in the stomach, weakness and

bleeding were the key symptoms.

E.A. ELIZAROVA et al, looked at a variety of

relationships and approaches to treating dogs

homœopathically for psychological states.

Stephen BAUMGARTNER, et al., presented 8

randomized, blinded studies for the prevention and

treatment of the rosy apple aphid (Dysaphis plantaginea

Pass) on apple seedlings.

Leoni Villano BONAMIN, et al., did a study using

Thymulin 5c to increase productivity of chickens.

Clinical Studies

Grazyna MILEWSKA described a research project

involving patients which demonstrated the clinical

picture of Causticum. Also spoke of Crocus sativa in

hypercoagulative states of the blood.

Antje OSWALD discussed the technique of applied

Kinesthiology which improved the accuracy of his

prescribing.

Purnima SHUKLA and Rajiv MISRA did a study

with 45 cases of infertility successfully with

Thyroidinum, Spongia, Natrum muriaticum, Calcarea

iodata, Fucus etc.

Sandeep KAILA, emphasized the importance of

nosodes.

Samir CHAUKKAR approached the problem of

addition to various drugs and alcohol in teenagers.

29.08.09

Ideas in practice:

Sigrid KRUSE, et al., presented a very important

and optimistic report on the co-operation of

conventional physicians and homœopathic physicians in

the Dr. Von Haunerřs Childrenřs University Hospital in

Munich, Germany. The single remedy homœopathic

approach has been especially successful in

Neonatology, Paedatric Oncology and Surgery,

Neurology, Pulmonology and Gastroenterology.

Herbert PFEIFFER outlined the primary and

secondary miasmatic views of paediatric illnesses. The

psoric child is retarded and slow. The sycotic child

develops quickly and immoderately. The syphilitic

child is not only retarded, but also it can lose the

capacity to move in a normal manner; as in a cerebral

palsy child. Endogenous factors are the manifestations

of miasmatic problems; we can find them in the primary

miasmatic case history, the anamnesis of the childrenřs

family, and/or in the secondary miasmatic case history,

in the prenatal, natal and postnatal anamnesis. The

exogenous factors in the secondary miasmatic case

history are diseases, injuries, intoxications, invasive

techniques, etc. the knowledge of the normal and

disturbed neurophysiologic development in children is

called Primaristic. The diseases which are

characterized by reversible dysfunctions are named

central coordination disturbances (CCD per Vojta). He

gave a number of cases demonstrating the above ideas.

Jonathan SHORE developed seven phrases in the

complex proving process.

Carmen STURZA presented clinical information

and proving of Ytterbium metallicum.

Tomas KOKOSZCZYNSKI enumerated the

positive results of Tuberculinum and in his experience

repetition in higher potencies is frequently without

aggravation and brings about a faster healing process.

Natalia VORONINA reviewed the stress of Russian

woman since World War II and found the medicines

Cimicifuga, Helonias, Lilium tigrinum, Onosmodium

and Sepia have been instrumental in dealing with

present day female illnesses.

Julia VASSILIEVA pursued Tinus Smitřs ŖTheory

of Universal layersŗ in reference to the contemporary

economic crises. She expounded on Anacardium when

the patient becomes unable to live in compliance with

his own wishes. She mentioned also Rhus

toxicodendron, which typifies the patient who feels a

helpless victim.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 31

Clinics and Pharmacology

Leon SCHEEPERS discussed Proteus. It has the

symptom of feeling good in sea. All the chlorides are

listed as associated remedies by Paterson. Also

proposed possibility of Anisum stellatum as being a

Genus Epidemicus of H1N1 Fever. He presented some

cases of this remedy.

Dentistry

RIBEIRO, et. al., gave evidence of the possibility

of a relationship between dental flourosis and the

prevalence of fluoric characteristics in Constitutional

Homœopathy.

NARDY, R.O., et.al., had positive results for

Homœopathy in a study of treatment of dental

hypersensitivity with Hypericum 3D over conventional

oxagel. Also spoke on another study of third molar

symptoms Ŕ of pain, edema, infection and ameliorating

cicatrisation with Arnica 6c, Staphysagria 6c and

Streptococcinum 30D.

Clinical Studies

Sigrid KRUSE, et al., delivered a useful paper on

the complementary homœopathic treatment of

premature and newborn children with severe

intracerebral hemorrhage in the Paediatric Hospital of

Dr. von HAUNER in Munich, Germany. A 12 month

outcome study revealed that adding homœopathic

therapy can be successful in the ICU.

Also presented another paper on the

complementary use of Homœopathy in Pediatric

Oncology at the above mentioned Hospital.

30.08.2009

Maria-Luc FEYTON gave examples of how

Homœopathy is a medicine in full harmony with

Christian thought. She elaborated on patients aided in

their pursuit of a higher spiritual and ethical life.

Father Jacek NORKOWSKI, a Polish Roman

Catholic priest stated that many Popes, right from

GREGORY XVI from the 19

th

century, have supported

Homœopathy.

Ulrich FISCHER concluded with closing remarks

and thanked everyone who helped the congress.

III. My experience with HWB and La Escuela

Homœopatica de las Americas. FLEISHER, Mitchell

(AJHM. 102, 4/2009).

The author recounts his teaching experience in El

Salvador and Guatamela at the invitation of Dr. Karl

Robinson as visiting clinical faculty for a La Escuela

Homœopatica de las Americas (The Homœopathic

School of the Americas) in Feb. 2009.

IV. Results of 8 year-long, prospective,

multicentbral Cohort Study by WITT and

Colleagues. The study pertained to 103 chronically ill

patients under treatment by Homœopathy.

The frequent complaints were Allergic Rhinitis and

headaches in grown-up persons, Atopic Dermatitis and

other recurring infections in children. Serious deseases

rapidly withdrew considerably. (p < 0.001) between

baseline, 2 and 8 years (Grownups from 6.2 ± 1.7 to 2.9

± 2.2 and 2.7 ± 2.1, children from 6.1 ± 1.8 to 2.1 ± 2.0

and 1.7 ± 1.9). The physical and psychological life

qualities improved impressively. Younger patients,

women and patients with serious diseases profit much

more from homœopathic therapy. (ZKH. 53, 1/2009

from BMC Public Health 2008, 8:413)

V. Literaturdatenbank CAM base wit erweiterten

Inhalten: Literature data bank complementary and

Alternative Medicine (CAM) base with enlarged

contents (ZKH. 53, 2/2009): This online Databank has

enlarged contents www.cambase.de. Now it contains

more than 30 German language journals of repute with

regard to Complementary Medicine Ŕ including

Homœopathy.

The library team works continuously to update and

improve the Data bank and old to the list of journals.

VI. Dr. Gerhardus LANG (who follows the Sehgal

Method) has, in response to the article of

VITHOULKAS (ZKH. 53, 1/2009) about the concerted

Media attack on Homœopathy argued for tolerance of

the Řinnovativeř Řnewř methods.

In response Dr. VITHOULKAS has reiterated his

well-known conclusions that the modern Ŗinnovationsŗ

like Rajan Sankaranřs ideas, the Periodic Table etc. of

Jan SCHOLTEN, the Řmind onlyř of Sehgal et al. are

reasons which are responsible for the Media attack.

VII. Guest Editorial.

The International Scientific Committee for

Homœopathic Investigations (ISCHI) (HOM. 99,

3/2010).

ISCHI was established to fund research in

Homœopathy, initially exclusively in influenza. It has

now expanded its scope to include all research in

Homœopathy, the main criteria in selecting studies to

support impact and replication. Its international

membership meets twice yearly to review research

applications. Those with some or all of the following

features will have a higher chance of success:

1. Impact: credible study design and immediate

practical application with significant health economic

benefits.

2. Replication of promising concepts or studies or

potential for future replication.

3. Co-funding by other funding agency or research

institution.

4. Collaboration with established institutions or

researchers who are impartial but open minded about

Homœopathy with no potential conflict of interest.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 32

5. Groups with a strong record of completion of

research studies and publication.

The ISCHI website is currently being revised.

Until it is operational enquiries should be sent to:

helmut.roniger@uclh.nhs.uk.

VIII. Editorial

The Spirit of volunteerism ELAND, Richa

Christine (AH. 15/2009).

With any simple act of kindness, such as

volunteering time: we serve that Greater good. In

volunteering we are the spirit of kindness and the

handmaiden to what it represents. Hundreds of hours

are volunteered by the authors and thousands more are

logged in editing, advising, proofreading to present this

journal. These volunteer hours are pretty astonishing,

especially in a time where fiscal contributions, as well

as manual hours of contributions are falling nationwide.

The editor mourns the loss of Michael QUINN of

HAHNEMANN Labs in San Rafael, CA. [See obituary

reference, QHD. 3&4, 2009, P. 121]

IX. Freeing Homœopathy: A conversation with Diana

MILLER, JD by MUELLER, Manfred. (AH. 15/2009).

Diane MILLER is a Minnesota attorney for

National Health Freedom coalition(NHFC), which is a

national information resource for health freedom

decision makers and leaders, to support them in their

work of protecting access to healing options of all kinds.

In a long conversation with Manfred MUELLER,

he discusses about safe harbor exemption laws for

homœopaths, naturopahs and herbalists, so that they

will not be charged with practice of medicine without a

licence.

He advocates against state licensing of homœopaths

as it will restrict others from practicing. He opines that

best way to protect Homœopathy is to promote in the

public eye and do a campaign on the safety of

Homœopathy and homœopaths and the benefit of the

safe harbor model instead of always being on the

defensive.

X. The Vital Force and the Law: one Homœopathřs

story. ROZENBERG, Vega (AH. 15/2009).

Vega ROZENBERG is the founder of the Evolution

of Self School of Homœopathy (ESSH). This has acted

as an educational foundation to many of Arizonařs

medical doctors and homœopathic Medical Board

members, and also to many other students. The

requirements to become a licensed homœopathic

medical doctor in Arizona were 1. Being a medical

doctor and having only 90 hours of homœopathic

training.

After these were fulfilled by ESSH, the author and

many non-licenced homœopaths were directed to desist

from teaching and practicing. After a long and costly

battle, a paragraph was included in the law indicating an

exemption exists for the treatment of the spiritual vital

Force with homœopathic remedies. This exemption has

been a great relief for Homœopathy in Arizona.

XI. A sketch of Dr. Maesimund B. PANOS (1912-

1999). BRIDGMAN, Laura (AH. 15/2009).

Dr. PANOS made everybody feel very special she

was very observant and always gave incredible care and

attention to her patients, students and colleagues as

individuals. She put a lot of effort to arrange guest

speakers for the Ohio State Homœopathic Medical

Society(OSHMS). She placed great value in newsletter

one of her greatest strengths was in forming

relationships that lasted a lifetime. She was committed

to the AIH postgraduate course and NCH summer

school. Her vision for the future of medicine was that

licensed physicians should be trained in Homœopathy.

After practicing in Washington DC, she moved to Ohio

and founded the Woodward Foundation for

Homœopathy. Her library is preserved at NCH.

Without her efforts, Homœopathy in America might

have died out in the 1950s and 1960s.

XII. Joint American Homœopathic Conference

2009. Barbara, FORREST (AH. 15/2009).

The fourth Annual joint American Homœopathic

Conference in Seattle was about ŖRaising Healthy

Childrenŗ.

The pre-conference seminar ŖFamily Dynamis and

Remedy Relationshipsŗ was presented by Dr. Luc De

SCHEPPER. On the advanced schedule, Dr. Luc

presented ŖThe womb of Disease: The importance of

Intra-Uterine Trauma to unlocking casesŗ.

Dr. Will Taylor spoke on Ŗchildhood through the

Miasmatic Prismŗ spoke of the correlation of ADHD

and Tubercular Miasm.

Conference attendees were invited to join in round-

table discussions over lunch with Mirando CASTRO

and Judyth REICHENBERG-ULLMAN.

XIII. In tribute to William Herbert Tankard Ŕ

Hahnemann. COOK, Trevor (AH. 15/2009).

William Tankard Ŕ Hahnemann passed away

peacefully at his home in Crowborough, East Sussex on

12

th

January 2009, his 87

th

birthday. He was the great,

great, great grandson of Samuel Hahnemann. He served

as a Major in the British Army and then honoured by his

appointment as a Freeman of the city of London. On his

retirement became the patron of the British Institute of

Homœopathy in 1987. Since then he has given his time

generously to promote Homœopathy in UK and around

the world, in the next 22 years.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 33

XIV. Forging alliances, making progress.

Homœopathy to benefit from healthcare reform.

GAHLES, Nancy (HT. 31, 1/2011).

NCH has been working hard to protect and advance

the interests of everyone who uses Homœopathy.

Integrated Healthcare Policy Consortium (IHPC) is a

coalition of clinicians, patients, educators and

organizations committed to ensuring access to safe, high

quality conventional, complementary and alternative

health care. Through the efforts of IHPC Practitioners

who have earned the certified classical Homœopath

credential will eventually be identified as integrative

health care practitioners.

XV. Swiss health insurance to cover Homœopathy

again. (HT. 31, 1/2011).

Beginning in 2012, Homœopathy and other

complementary and alternative therapies will be

reimbursed by Switzerlandřs medical insurance. Data

published in Swiss medical journal shows they lead to

higher patient satisfaction and 29% lower costs than

conventional medicine.

(Swiss Medical Journal, Dec. 15, 2010).

XVI. Nobel laureateřs research significant for

Homœopathy. (HT. 31, 1/2011).

Luc MONTAGNIER, the French virologists and

2008 Nobel Laureate will move to a research institute

Shangaiřs Jiaotong University to further his studies of

the electromagnetic properties of dilute DNA fragments.

Ŕ as funding in Europe became difficult. He speaks of

Jacques BENVENISTE, as modern Galileo who was too

far ahead of his time.

His research parallels the basic principles of

Homœopathy ….Montaigner speaks of the intellectual

fear around research into this topic in Europe Ŗby

people who donřt understand it.ŗ

(Science, Dec. 24, 2010).

XVII. Patients turn to Homœopathy for kidsř

coughs & colds. (HT. 31, 1/2011).

Since 2007 when the FDA and the American

Academy of Paediatrics began warning about the

ineffectiveness and dangerous side effects of

conventional cough and cold medicines for children

under age 6, there is 30% growth in the sales of

homœopathic products. Boiron, reported 300% sales

increase in its childrenřs cough syrup last winter.

(Herald News, Dec. 19, 2010).

XVIII. Homœopathyřs rich history at National

Library of Medicine. (HT. 31, 1/2011).

The National Library of Medicineřs History of

Medicine Division now offers free web access to its oral

History collections. Visit

www.nlm.nih.gov/hmd/manuscripts/oh.html and click

on Ŗoral history collectionsŗ and search for

Ŗhomœopathyŗ.

XIX. University of Michiganřs large Homœopathy

library online. (HT. 31, 1/2011).

Taubman Mediocal libraryřs homœopathic

collection originated with the Homœopathic Medical

College which was part of the University in Ann Arbor

from 1875 until 1922. At present 381 items are onliune

dating from mid 1800s to the present. Browse at

http://quod.lib.umich.edu/h/homeop/

XX. A toast to Homœopaths in the Trenches! Video

premiere: Homœopathy around the world. BOYCE,

Carol (HT. 31, 1/2011).

The video is a multimedia salute to the

accomplishments of Homœopathy Ŗin the trenchesŗ.

Taking stock of just how far Homœopathy has spread in

the last 25 years and looking at the incredible work

being done across the world Ŕ with little or no resources

apart from the devotion of the clinicians and teachers Ŕ

is truly food for our collective Ŗhomœopathic soulŗ.

Homœopathy around the world offers a tasty and

nourishing reminder of that truth!

A smile and a toast

Despite all the current turmoil in our world, we can

smile knowing that HAHNEMANN has been right

about so many things. As the father of experimental

pharmacology, he developed proving-the first double

blind drug trials. He developed the well-tested and

increasingly useful Genus Epidemicus model, which has

proven so vital in the developing world. With his

theory of Miasms and the concept of predisposition, he

saw what the new science of epigenetics has only just

discovered: that genetics are not fixed, but are malleable

and respond to environment, to life traumas and, in the

case of homœopathic treatment, to miasmatic

prescribing.

We have many millions of cured cases - solid

clinical evidence that cannot be dismissed by redefining

Ŗanecdotal.ŗ We can be confident in what we do, in

who we are, and in the very real and positive impact that

Homœopathy is having around the globe. I hope to see

you at the conference, and to share Homœopathy

Around the World as a toast to those in the

homœopathic trenches who lift our hearts!

Our shared vision of global Homœopathy is

becoming a reality, right here and right now in our

lifetime.

XXI. Council for Homœopathic Certification (CHC)

completes 20 years. Karen ALLEN. (HT. 31, 1/2011).

The CHC is taking an active role in helping to

define the homœopathic profession moving it forward.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 34

XXII. Thermodynamic parameters for the binding

process of the OH

ŕ

ion with the dissipative

structures: Calorimetric and conductometric

titrations (HOM. 99, 4/2010). Conductometric and

calorimetric titrations of Extremely Diluted Solutions

(EDS) were performed by adding HC1 or NaOH

solutions. The aim of this study is to obtain further

confirmation of the hypothesized presence, in the EDS,

of molecular aggregates of water molecules. The

measurements on the EDS evidenced some relevant

differences compared to those on solutions with just

water as solvent. The conductivity and the pH caused

by adding the titrant, namely NaOH or HC1, were

markedly different to those of the control solutions. We

suppose that the preparation procedure of the EDS could

produce nonequilibrium changes in the supramolecular

structure of water. The experimental results were

interpreted by considering the interactions that can take

place between the OH

ŕ

or H

3

O

+

and the hypothesized

molecular aggregates of water molecules i.e. dissipative

structures. A comparison was made about the nature of

the driving force that leads to the formation of the

complexes between the two ions deriving from probes

and the molecular aggregates of water molecules

(dissipative structures). In this study, we have

determined the thermodynamic parameters of

association between molecular aggregates of water

molecules (dissipative structures) in the EDS and OH

ŕ

or H

3

O

+

probe ions. The experimental results were

interpreted by considering a favorable interaction

between the H

3

O

+

and OH

ŕ

ions and the dissipative

structures, due, probably, to steric hind-rance and

chemical affinity with the aggregates.

(ELIA, V., NAPOLI E., NICCOLI, M. J Therm Anal

Calorim 2010; doi: 10.1007/s 10973-010-0757-1.)

XXIII. Barry NARSHALL and Robin WARREN,

shared the 2005 Nobel Prize for Medicine for the

discovery of the bacterium ŖHelicobacterpylori and

its role in gastritis & peptic ulcer diseaseŗ. (S&C. 71,

11-12/2005).

90% of duodenal ulcers and 80% of gastric ulcers

are caused by this bacterium. This has been established

on the basis of studies of human volunteers, antibiotic

studies and epidemiological studies. H. pylori can be

diagnosed by antibody tests. Even in single infected

individual all bacteria are not identical and during the

course of chronic infection, it adopts to the changing

conditions with time.

XXIV. Medical Law Ŕ some aspects. (GOOPTU,

Naranarayan) (S & C. 72, 5-6/2006).

Medical Law has to be understood in the context of

medical ethics and the Hippocratic tradition. The key

element of the Hippocratic oath is for doctors to practice

and prescribe to the best of their ability for the good of

their patients and to try to avoid harming patients.

The six important aspects of Medical Law namely

1. Medical negligence, 2. Consent, 3. Children &

Consent, 4. Medical confidentiality, 5. Abortion and 6.

Euthanasia are discussed.

XXV. Homœopathic Museum in Saxony to be

opened in HAHNEMANN house, Torgau, Oct. 6,

2007. (HL. 21, 1-2/2008).

This 500 year old renaissance building, was to be

demolished, when experts discovered its historical value

back in 1992. This is the very place where the first

edition of Organon was written as well as the first

volume of MMP.

This building is being renovated since 10 years

with 3 million Euros from the EC and is ready for

public from Oct. 2007. [I had the great good fortune of

visiting Torgau and seeing this house, in Sept. 2007.

Renovation was still on. There were floral paintings on

the ceilings and in some places in the walls. These were

carefully being restored. Great work indeed = KSS].

XXVI. Uta Santos-König on Massimo Mangialavori

Ŕ Interview by Harry van der zee. (HL. 21, 1-

2/2008).

Ms. Uta was impressed by MANGIALAVORIřs

case taking and high level of observation and

documentation. Also impressed by deep investigations

of substances. All possible sources like Myths,

toxicology, traditions. Another factor is reliability of

his cases presented. His model is based on experience

and cured cases. A deep understanding of human

survival strategies and a refined ability to observe these

and compare them with those of possible sources in

nature seems to lie at the basis of his work.

XXVII. Moving on.

An Interview with Anne SCHADDE.

MUCKENHEIM, Mareen (HL. 21, 1-2/2008).

Anne talks of Rajan SANKARANřs technique of

case taking Ŕ a step by step progression based on his

system of the seven levels of disease. His continuous

creative development of ideas teaches us to be

Ŗunprejudicedŗ while listening to the descriptions of the

patient. It is important to keep guiding the patient by

following his own words and descriptions to come as

close as possible to the ŘVital Sensationř. The somatic

expressions of the body offer us the possibility of

perceiving the movement of the soul.

The idea is to trace this movement from the

symptoms of the sickness to the general energy of the

disease. This makes it possible to uncover ŖThe

undoubtedly morbidŗ.

XXVIII. Introducing Jan Scholten. Harry van der

ZEE. (HL. 21, 1-2/2008).

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 35

Ulrich WELTE is impressed by the intuitive genius

of SCHOLTEN. His ideas are simple, clear and

systematic. His new concepts pass the test of clinical

verification worldwide so they are beyond the stage of

hypothesis. The idea that proving are Ŗthe only wayŗ to

understand remedies/patients is one of the intrinsic

homœopathic prejudices. One can find remedies in so

many ways. [The very foundation of Homœopathy is

denied by this hypotheses although the results favor it.

Can these Ŗso many waysŗ become Homœopathy? =

KSS.] The stages are the universal steps of creation,

preservation and destruction. The eighteen steps are

natural phenomena of the periodic table and shows the

evolutionary structure of the elements of the universe.

They are valid chemically, physically and

mathematically.

A case of Crohnřs disease successfully treated by

Scandium based on Scholtenřs ideas is given.

[We do not need HAHNEMANN any more nor

BOENNINGHAUSEN, HERING including his Law of

Direction of cure -, ALLEN, BOGER, KENT, etc. If

we follow SEHGAL we do not need even the Materia

Medica! Ŕ just Mind section of the Repertory is

sufficient! All these are Homœopathy Ŕ will these fit

into the Healing (Medical) System authorized by

Government? = KSS.]

XXIX. Linking Provings and sources. WICHMANN,

Jörg (HL. 21, 1-2/2008).

A new website on homœopathic plants:

www.pflanzenportraits.com by Jürgen WEILAND gives

a collection of plant images named and classified by

their natural families, plus an introduction to each one.

It also includes themes of the families and their

mythology as well as links to late proving.

The book ŖThe Living Wisdom of Treesŗ by Fred

HAGENDER, Duncan Baird publication, London.

Photographs by Edward Parker Ŕ also gives similar

information.

XXX. Cancer seminar Dr. R.P. PATEL Ŕ Voice of

Experience. GAMBHIR, Kushali (HL. 21, 1-2/2008).

On Jan. 27

th

and 28

th

2007, a seminar on Cancer

cases was organized at Vadodara. Dr. PATEL

highlighted his success with the LM potencies. He

made it evident that a command over the ŘOrganon of

Medicineř and the ŘChronic Diseasesř by Dr.

HAHNEMANN can make a homœopath treat and

succeed with Cancer cases giving the much desired

hope, care and quality of life.

Cases were presented directly from his records.

Cases that had survived more than 10 years were

displayed with all relevant pathological reports.

Decades of experience came wrapped up in a concise

form over these two days.

Dr. PATEL instilled confidence in everyone to

handle Cancer cases.

A case of Cancer colon in a 58 year-old woman

treated with Calcarea carb. 0/30, Ornithogallum 0/1 &

2 and Hydrastis D3 is given.

XXXI. Tribute to Madeleine. Jean M. BASTIDE,

Leon; V. BONAMIN & AGNES, Lagache.

Madelina BASTIDE, Head Professor of

Immunology at the University of Montpellier born on

18

th

March 1935 died on 10

th

June 2007. In the

beginning of 1980s, she published several articles on

scientific validation of the effectiveness of

Homœopathy. In 1986, in collaboration with Dr. René

Hahn, she founded an association devoted to research in

Homœopathy, GIRI (Groupe International de Recherche

sur Infinitesimal).

XXXII. Maun Homœopathy Project (MHP). (HL.

21, 1-2/2008)

MHP is making a real difference in a small town

Maun, Bostswana, Africa, where 35% have HIV, many

people live below poverty line and traumatized by

multiple bereavements, stigma and fear. MHP and

School of Homœopathy and Alternative Training are

training local homœopaths and its home study course is

its cornerstone. MHP has become an integral part of the

local society by treating over 200 patients a month, all

HIV positive or victims of rape and trauma.

mhp@homeopathybotswana.com

XXXIII. Face analysis in Homœopathy. A seminar

with Grant Bentley. BARENDREGY-GEIST, Hetty

(HL. 21, 1-2/2008).

Bentley has given a colour code for every Miasm.

Psora - Yellow; Sycosis Ŕ Red, Syphilis - Blue;

Tubercular Ŕ Green, Syc + Syphilis Ŕ Purple, Psor + Syc

+ Syp Ŕ brown.

After seven years of studying facial features, he

could determine the leading Miasm.

XXXIV. Proscribed drug threat to vultures: ŖThe

illegal use of Diclofenac for Veterinary purpose is

posing a threat to the vulture population in the country

despite a ban on its veterinary use in 2006. Recent

studies showed that it is available in a number of

pharmacies. The drug was banned after its traces were

found in cattle carcasses. The drug proved fatal for

vultures feeding on the carcasses, resulting in a steep

decline in their populations …ŗ (The Hindu, Chennai 21

Sept. 2011)

[We have been witness to steady and continued loss

of several creatures Ŕ the house sparrows, even cats that

were a common sight where I live, several herbs etc. Ŕ

all due to Řscientificř progresses = KSS].

XXXV. Legacy in the Institute for History of

Medicine of the Robert Bosch Foundation, Stuttgart:

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 36

The legacies of Robert FLURY, the famous Swiss

homœopath of the last century are now in the Institute

for History of Medicine. Dr. Robert FLURY (1903-

1977) was one of the top homœopaths of the century

apart from Pierre SCHMIDT, and Adolf VOEGELI.

FLURY discovered the until then unknown Q-

potencies-50 millesimal-and he established for himself a

complete rang of Q potencies. In the 1960s he

conducted several courses in Kentřs Repertory, in the

Munich University.

The legacy contains several letters, index of the

medicines his writings and several manuscripts of

several lectures in the Swiss Academy and the

International Homœopathic Medical Association.

All these are carefully preserved for posterity.

XXXVI. Malarial deaths in India grossly under-

estimated by WHO (The Hindu, Oct.21, 2010).

According to World Health Organisation, 10,000

adult and 5,000 child malarial deaths occur each year.

But the Lancet points out (Oct. 21) the number could be

as high as 2,05,000 per year. The upper limit is around

2,77,000 and the lower limit is nearly 1,25,000. This

number for India alone is much higher than WHOřs

estimate of 1,00,000 deaths per year worldwide!

WHOřs estimation are a gross underestimation.

The number of deaths is more than WHO estimates.

WHO takes into account only those deaths that have

been confirmed cases, and restricted to those seeking

healthcare facilities.

Can the results from small studies undertaken in

select states or in select subpopulations, and only from

those families that the access to healthcare facilities be

extrapolated to arrive at a national estimate?

The paper shows how wrong the estimates can be if

the current protocol is used. For instance, the Lancet

paper shows that the majority of deaths occur in rural

areas and in people who do not seek medical assistance.

Deaths due to Malaria can be easily prevented with

prompt treatment and proper diagnoses will not result in

deaths.

The data provided by the field workers in 2001-03

confirm the cause of death of 1,22,000 people 90% of

these deaths occurred in rural areas and 86% were not in

health care facility. The authors agree that their study

has a degree of Ŗuncertaintyŗ as the cause of death is

deduced in those people who were never properly

diagnosed or treated. ŖThe major source of uncertainty

in estimates arises from the possible misclarification of

Malaria deaths as deaths from other diseases and vice

versaŗ.

Many workers have also noted that the health

management information system in India is not fit for

the purpose of recording malaria morbidity and

mortality. If the numbers are indeed much higher than

WHO estimates, then serious re-evaluation of disease

control strategies is required.

Also, as the authors note, there is an urgent need to

concentrate on rural areas where healthcare facilities are

poor. At a global level, it calls for enhanced funding to

fight malaria, efforts to develop easy and rapid access to

better diagnosis and effective drugs.

XXXVII. The Tamil language daily ŘDinamaniř

dated 3 Dec. 2011 carried Editorial on the health of

school children. (ŘDinamaniř dated 3 Dec. 2011).

It says that 411 students of the City High School

(run by the Govt.) were examined on the first day; in

this 99 were suffering from skin disease, 65 with dental

ailments, 41 with lack of stamina-Vitamin deficiency.

Besides these 25 students were Řreferredř to special

branches for Visual, TB, hearing loss etc. etc. This is

the situation in almost all Govt. schools. The children

who are referred for special branches must visit the City

Hospital which is possible for them on Sundays, when

they will be accompanied by their parents; but on

Sundays the doctors are not available!

So much about Govt. healthcare of school children.

The doctors group may make another visit to the same

school after 3-4 months and thatřs all. The students as

well or ill as they were.

Neither the Govt. nor the School authorities nor the

doctors are sincere in the least to restore the children to

health. [What has Homœopathy to offer in this? =

K.S.S.]

XXXVII. 64 Liga Congress: ŖTimeless Quality

Homœopathyŗ/ 26-30 August 2009, Warsaw,

Poland.ŗ Report by Dr. Thomas PEINBAUER (ZKH.

53, 4/2009). Extracts: 70 Patients were there. The

Congress was organized by Poland Society for

Homœopathy, Warsaw which was founded in 1892.

Homœopathy has been shining in Poland under very

trying condition.

There was a good international gathering.

The Congress Themes ŖTimeless Quality

Homœopathyŗ opened up a wide field for discussion.

There were Veterinarian, Odontologian,

Pharmacologians and Agro. Homœopathical

participation.

Marcin MOLSKI Professor in Theoretical

Chemistry in the University programme opened with the

key lecture on Quasi-Quantum phenomenon of key to

the understanding of Homœopathy. Prof. Gerhard

RESCH spoke on Homœopathy as key to understanding

the Nature. In his second lecture he spoke Copernicusř

methods in Hahnemannřs thoughts between the 1

st

& 2

nd

edition of the Organon; they were explained by the

study of the book title, the motto, parts of Introduction

and the paragraphs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 37

Ashley ROSS gave interesting brief look into 15

Provings which were carried out in the last 10 years in

the Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

Official guidelines on H1N1 Ŕ Influenza pandemy was,

presented by Dr. Michael van WASSENHOVEN and

Dr. Léon SCHEEPERS, with Anisum stellatum as the

Genus epidemicum.

Prof. Dr. Josef SCHMIDT spoke on ŖThe Notion of

Health in the History of Medicine in the writings of

Hahnemann and Homœopathyŗ. Dr. Ton NICOLAI

spoke on the role of Homœopathy as part of integrative

Medicine. Dr. Michael TEUT presented data on

prospective observational study of homœopathic

treatment of aged patients.

Dr. Lex RUTTEN spoke on the study of the 2005

Lancet study and he said that after careful study of all

the data the conclusion was clearly that the quality of

homœopathic studies particularly the smaller ones make

better than the conventional ones.

XXXVIII. E-mails not all that Řgreenř. (The Hindu,

Chennai. 10

th

Nov. 2011).

We send electronic greetings. We believie that by

switching from paper to electronic mode of

communications, we are Ŗgreenŗ, and that in doing so

we have saved paper and thus done a bit to save the

environment and generate less CO

2

.

However, ŖE-mails are not so greenŗ reports a news

item in a recent issue of the journal Science.

The often-quoted estimate by Mr.Matthew Yeager

of Computacentre claims that sending an e-mail

attachment of 4.7 megabytes (MB) creates as much

greenhouse gas as boiling a tea-kettle 17.5 times. His

study claims that an e-mail of 1MB would be the

equivalent to the emission of 19grams of CO

2

, and if

that mail is copied (ccřd, as we type) to 10 people, its

impact is 73 grams of CO

2

. Keira Butler in Atlantic

(Aug. 12, 2010) says if you send a picture to 20 people

by e-mail means the use of equipment such as personal

computers, server storage centres (not to mention

printers for hard copy, if used). All these cause energy

and hence more CO

2

emission.

French Governmentřs environment and Energy

Management Agency suggests that if 100 employees

sent 10 percent less e-mails for a year, they would save

CO

2

emissions equivalent to one round-trip flight

between Paris and New York.

When Jeremy Nathan of John Hopkins was invited

to give a lecture in Hyderabad in 2009, he declined

coming in person, stating that he is doing his bit to the

environment by not flying from Baltimore and back. He

gave a lecture electronically and estimated how much

CO

2

he would have saved by not flying.

Keira Butter points out in The Atlantic, you get an

idea of how much energy is lost in electronic

communications. Yes, e-communication does save

trees, is more efficient and produces less CO

2

, than

paper-based communication. But the scale of it is what

needs to be kept in mind. Facebook users alone are

uploading over 1000 photos per second, or 3 billion

photos per month. Recall the tea kettle boiling

equivalent of sending a 4.7 MB attachment, and you get

the idea.

There are several ways of saving energy and cutting

down greenhouse gas from our end.

1. Free up the memory space in computer. Clean up

the e-mail box (in and out mails) periodically. Not

doing these means greater demand for storage and

energy used by that storage.

2. Limit the number of recipients for each e-mail (cut

down the number of ccřs to).

3. Cut down the size of the attachments (boil less tea-

water).

4. Enter the URL address directly rather than use a

search engine. Cut down the times you ŖGoogleŗ,

ŖYahooŗ etc.

5. Do not leave your computer and accessories on

overnight (as many offices do), not even on Řsleep

modeř (even if that eats up only 1-10 watts).

6. Laptops use 15-60 watts while desktops use 250W.

Cut down the power by doing more Řofflineř work

than online. Finally, remember Facebooking and

Twittering burn carbon and make CO

2.

Talk more

and twitter less! - D-BALASUBRAMANIAN

dbala@lvpei.org

XXXIX. Ultra dilute aspirin and rebound effects.

(HOM. 99, 2/2010).

Aspirin remains the most widely used drug for

prevention of vascular events. Recent observational

epidemiological evidence has raised the concern that

aspirin withdrawal for treatment non-compliance,

surgery or side effects can carry an increased thrombotic

risk. The delay to the thrombotic event was between 7

to 30 days in most reports and most frequently 7 to 10

days. The mechanism underlying this effect remains

poorly understood. Using an in vivo model of laser-

induced thrombosis, aspirin injected in one single dose

of 100mg/kg bw has also shown a prothrombotic

activity in the rat 8 to 10 days after injection in the

normal rat. The hypothesis was made that minimal

concentrations of aspirin or ultra-low dose aspirin

(ULDA) could induce this effect. ULDA showed

prothrombotic properties in the same model of induced

thrombosis that were very similar to those described

after aspirin withdrawal, but the effect was observed

only one hour after aspirin administration. The

prothrombotic effect of ULDA is very similar to the

effect observed after COX 2 selective inhibition with

NS 398. The administration of both the selective COX

2 inhibitor and ULDA did not produce further changes.

High-dose ASA counterbalances the lack of COX 2

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 38

with an antithrombotic effect. No effect of residual

ASA was observed in COX 2 -/- mice, thus confirming

the existence of a COX 2 inhibition pathway. COX 2

inhibition produced by residual ASA is the probable

cause of ischaemic accidents and drug-eluting stents

thrombosis a few days afer ASA withdrawal.

(Doutremepuich C, Aguejouf O, Desplat V,

Eizayaga FX. Aspirin therapy: An attempt to explain

the events of prothrombotic complications after

treatment discontinuation. Thromb Haemost 2010;

103: 171-180).

XL. Likelihood Ratio assessment. (HOM. 99,

2/2010).

Background: Signs and symptoms can be considered as

diagnostic tests, updating prior odds by applying Bayesř

theorem. In Homœopathy, signs and symptoms guide

the doctor when prescribing appropriate medicines but

the powers of these indicators are largely based on

common experience.

Objective: We want to know whether it is possible to

calculate the power of arguments of signs and

symptoms indicating homœopathic medicines,

expressed in likelihood ratios.

Methods: An observational patient-outcome study as

advocated for diagnostic test evaluation. There was no

independent observation of symptoms and results.

Instead, observers were extensively trained in assessing

each otherřs cases and the process was regularly

monitored.

Results: A total of 4072 prescriptions for 4094 patients

were recorded. The relation between six clinical

symptoms and outcome was calculated. Variance

between observers in assessing symptoms and results

were considerable. Some indications of confirmation

bias were detected by follow-up, and 48 statistically

significant likelihood ratios regarding six symptoms

were calculated.

Conclusion: A diagnostic patient-outcome study within

Homœopathy collecting a large amount of data is

demonstrated. Results partly confirm clinical practice at

a 95% confidence level. This kind of research could

validate knowledge from practical experience.

(RUTTEN ALB, STOPLER CF., Diagnostic test

evaluation by patient-outcome study in Homœopathy:

balancing of feasibility and validity. J Eval Clin

Practice 2009; 15: 1230-1235.)

XLI. The Clinical Trial in Homœopathy Exploring

the limits. David BRULÉ, Riverdale Homeopathic

Clinic. (HOM. 99, 2/2010).

Background: Classical Homœopathy involves

individualized homœopathic drug treatment of the

patient. Thus for anyone conventionally diagnosed

disease, the homœopathic drug given varies from patient

to patient. Applying randomized controlled trial

methodology to studies investigating the efficacy of

homœopathic drugs in a classical Homœopathy setting

is fraught with difficulties, especially if the design is

meant to maximize model validity (clinical

applicability).

Objectives: To discover what adaptations to the

standard randomized controlled trial design are

necessary when designing a clinical trial in classical

Homœopathy with high model validity.

Methods: A literature review of homœopathic trials for

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was

undertaken. The following databases were accessed

using keywords Řhomeopathyř, ŘAttention Deficit

Hyperactivity Disorderř, ŘADHDř, and ŘADDř:

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, ALT Health

Watch, AMED.

Results: 180 studies and discussion papers were

identified. Trial design issues identified include: need

for pilot data to establish estimate of sample size

requirements for powered studies, need to have an

extended treatment period to allow for practitioner

prescription error, need to use drugs that have a history

of use in the clinical literature.

Conclusion: For a RCT in ADHD it is recommended

that a pilot study using the same homœopaths for pilot

and future trial is undertaken. The treatment period

should be 9-12 months for the pilot trial. Remedies

with a history of clinical use should only be considered.

XLII. The Effectiveness of Homœopathy for

Mothers with Low Milk Supply. Dugald SEELY,

Taya GRIFFEN. The Newman Breastfeeding Clinic

& Institute (NBCI), Canadian College of

Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) (HOM. 99, 2/2010).

Background: Insufficient milk production is a real

problem for some women soon after giving birth and

current conventional treatments can be inadequate to

treat this condition. Homœopathy, a safe non-invasive

therapy, is used in lactation management yet there has

been no formal investigation of its potential to help

resolve low milk supply.

Objectives: This study explores the potential benefit of

a select number of classically prescribed homœopathic

remedies to increase milk supply for mothers who have

an insufficient milk supply within the first three weeks

postpartum.

Methods: Individualized open label pilot clinical trial.

This study tests a non-invasive and non-toxic therapy to

help newborn babies achieve complete nutrition through

their motherřs breast milk. Phase I assesses the volume

of formula consumed by newborn babies of mothers

with low milk supply via a lactation aid. Phase II will

provide women with low milk supply, who are also

supplementing via a lactation aid, an individually

selected homœopathic remedy. Flow volume will be

indirectly measured by changes in formula consumption

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 39

and compared to a set of control values previously

established for infant formula consumption in women

who have shown signs of insufficient lactation but were

not treated with Homœopathy.

Outcomes: The primary outcome will be the change in

formula consumption over a three week period.

Secondary outcomes include perceived levels of

satisfaction and satiety in both mothers and newborns

respectively.

Results and Conclusions: We will focus our discussion

on the processes involved in getting this trial off the

ground and running. Key points include building a team

of collaborators, developing the trial protocol, the

clinical trial application process to Health Canadařs

Natural Health Products Directorate, and applying for

ethics approval at CCNM.

XLIII. Chronic diseases in the light of normal

physiology: A homœopathic review. Olga IMAS.

Healing Wheal Homeopathy clinic. (HOM. 99,

2/2010).

Background: There are only five types of immune

responses known to normal physiology (inflammation,

exudation, allergic reaction, autoimmune reaction,

regulation of carcinogenesis by activating cytotoxic

function of the T-killer lymphocytes in order to

eliminate cancerous cells). Each of these types occurs

in chronological manner (starting with initial

inflammation) and constitutes the depth of disease

development. Homœopathic treatment of chronic

disease also involves a chronological approach:

ŖHeringřs Lawŗ posits that positive responses to

treatment occur when symptoms shift from more vital

organs to less vital organs.

Objectives: In this case study analysis we investigate

the chronology of the symptomatology in two clinical;

cases of Breast Cancer and Diabetes.

Methods: Two Řbest casesř in the treatment of Cancer

and Diabetes using an adapted form of classical

homœopathic methods were documented. The patients

received a series of homœopathic remedies, including

daily dosages of constitutional and simultaneous

dosages of organ affinity remedies over the course of

18-24 months and the changing symptom picture was

observed.

Results: The cases resolved in a distinctive pattern.

The chronic disease was resolved by the development of

an acute inflammation during the treatment. The case of

the diabetes had a rapid response consisting of recurrent

inflammatory reactions (such as flu-like symptoms,

gout). In the Cancer case, the final state of the

treatment developed an inflammatory reaction

consisting of an exudation and excretion phase, which

subsequently resolved the case.

Conclusion: Treatment started from chronic disease in

an acute state (Cancer) or from deep chronic state

(diabetes) can be Řturnedř into an acute state disease (the

initial inflammation), leading to resolution. The state of

initial inflammation may be a key to the ultimate

resolution of such chronic disease. This observation

warrants a further examination of this phenomenon

using well-documented case studies and/or controlled

trials.

XLIV. Intersex: Neither His nor Hers. Rachel

LEVINE Toronto Schol of Homœopathic Medicine.

(HOM. 99, 2/2010).

Background: Intersex individuals are born with

possible anatomical and physiological sexual

differences, resulting in many different intersex

variations. Intersex best describes genital, gonadal and

chromosomal variants, which are neither completely

Řmaleř nor Řfemaleř. Conventional medicine has

historically defined intersex variations as a disorder in

need of correction or potential elimination. Many

intersex patients seek medical treatments for conditions

(such as Klinefelter Syndrome and Polycystic Ovarian

Syndrome) frequently seen in intersex individuals.

Homœopathic treatment addresses the being from an

integrated approach that encompasses both the internal

and external structures.

Objectives: To examine whether Homœopathy can

successfully treat individuals with intersex variations.

Method: This method of research is a case study

analysis. Each case is approached with the

understanding that the primary contagion is not a

disease, but a variation of what society deems as

normal. Two cases, one of Klinefelter syndrome and

one of polycystic ovarian syndrome, were taken using a

Hahnemannian approach to case taking.

Results: The Klinefelter case has been managed

initially with Phosphorus 200c with Sepia 200D used as

an intercurrent. The Phosphorus helped manage

asthmatic and eye symptoms; while the Sepia helped

manage testosterone and a monthly Řemotional periodř.

In the polycystic ovarian case, Lachesis 200c and

Sulphur 30c were also used as intercurrents. Lachesis

helped regulate cysts and recurring ovarian pain at the

start of menses. The Sulphur helped with digestion,

perspiration and acne, which are all secondary effects to

polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Conclusion: This is a promising method of treating

individuals with intersex variations. More research

using more rigorous trial methodologies is needed.

XLV. Medicinal plants for the treatment of infant

colic: remedies from homœopathic formulations in

Satkhira district of Bangladesh

Ariful Haque MOLIK, Khadiza AKTER, Rohimul

FARUQUE, Debashis SEN, Torikul ISLAM. (HOM.

99, 2/2010).

Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, etc.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 40

Background: Homœopathic medicine is a frequent

choice of parents with a colicky infant in Bangladesh.

The use of medicinal plants for the treatment of infant

colic varies considerably between different districts of

Bangladesh.

Objectives: The objective of the survey was to conduct

a medicinal plants survey amongst the homœopathic

medicinal practitioners of Satkhira district which,

because of its mangrove [Sundarbans] forest regions,

contains a diversity of medicinal plants.

Methods: Interviews were conducted of the

homœopathic medicinal practitioners and medicinal

plant specimens as pointed out by them were collected

and identified at the Bangladesh National Herbarium.

Results: A total of thirty two medicinal plant species

were used by homœopathic medicinal practitioners of

Satkhira district to treat infant colic. These medicinal

plant species included Alstonia scholaris, Carica

papaya, Strychnos nux-vomica, Aegle marmelos,

Saccharum officinarum, Oryza sativa, Cocos nucifera,

Trichosanthes dioica, Luffa acutangula, Musa

sapientum, Alocasia macrorrhizos, Lagenaria vulgaris,

Trapa bispinosa, Maranta arundinacea, Cuminum

cyminum, Streblus asper, Blumea lacera, Zingiber

officinale, Swertia chirata, Centella asiatica,

Foeniculum vulgare, Piper longum, Emblica officinalis,

Holarrhena antidysenterica, Justicia adhatoda,

Andrographis paniculata, Luffa cylindrical, Ocimum

sanctum, Scirpus grossus, Agaricus albolutescens,

Curcuma longa, and Solanum surattense.

Conclusions: It is expected that scientific studies of the

above-medicinal plants can lead to discovery of novel

compounds to treat infant colic.

XLVI. Homœopathic products are used to treat

diminution of milk of cattle: a pragmatic

randomized survey in Bogra district of Bangladesh

Ariful Haque MOLLIK, Saroar SHADIQUE, Ikhtiar

ZAHID, Mahbub HASAN, Azmal Ibna HASSAN

Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, etc. (HOM.

99, 2/2010).

Background: Homœopathic products are made from

minerals, botanical substances, animal substances,

synthetic substances, and several other sources.

Objectives: A survey was carried out amongst the

homœopathic practitioners of Bogra district, Bangladesh

to find out the type of minerals, botanical substances,

and animal substances used to treat diminution of milk

of cattle. The rural population can scarcely afford to

visit modern veterinary practitioners and obtain modern

medicines to treat various cattle diseases. Instead they

rely on minerals, botanical substances, and animal

substances administered by the homœopathic medicinal

practitioners to treat diminution of milk of their cattle.

Methods: Homœopathic medical practitioners were

interviewed and botanical substances as pointed out by

them were collected and identified at the Bangladesh

National Herbarium.

Results: These botanical substances included Aconitum

napellus, Agnus castus, Ricinus communis, Vigna

mungo, Oryza sativa, Saccharum officinarum, Piper

longum, Cicer arietinum, Aegle marmelos, Amaranthus

spinosus, Lagenaria vulgaris, Musa sapientum,

Cynodon dactylon, Nigella sativa, Triticum aestivum,

Bambusa arundinacea, Pisum sativum, and sorghum

vulgare. The names of various minerals obtained

through the interviews and guided field-walks included

Acidum fluoricum, Calcarea caarbonica, and Natrum

muriaticum. The animal substances mostly used to treat

diminution of milk of cattle included Labeo rohita, and

Apis florae.

Conclusions: Since the rural people of Bogra district

Bangladesh mostly do not have access to modern

veterinary medical facilities, the above minerals,

botanical substances, and animal substances can form

the basis of treatment for diminution of milk of cattle

without resorting to costly urban visits or veterinary

practitioners.

XLVII. Framing a transdisciplinary perspective for

health research: Where does Homœopathy fit?

Martin PICARD, Judyann McNAMARA. MICH,

Montreal, Canada. (HOM. 99, 2/2010).

Background: To grasp the complexity of health

processes and enhance health care, researchers must

integrate knowledge from different disciplines and

paradigms of health. Integrating discipline-based

knowledge in a common conceptual framework is a

challenge because of conceptual framework and

pragmatic divergences between health domains (e.g.,

biological, psychological, energetic). The concept of

transdisciplinarity, defined in the literature as a

boundary-crossing integration of the natural, social and

health sciences, implies generating a novel perspective

and the creation of new knowledge. In Homœopathy,

health is closely related to the Vital Force, a

paradigmatic principle underpinning the expression of

health and disease states.

Objectives: The purpose of this work is to synthesize

and integrate health domains and key principles

identified from the scientific literature into a

transdisciplinary perspective of health, and then relate

these concepts to the homœopathic principle of vital

force.

Methods: We performed a Medline search using

combinations of the keywords Řhealthř, Řconceptř,

Řbiopsychosocialř, Řmodelř, Řframeworkř,

Řtransdisciplinary/transdiciplinarityř. Relevant articles

were categorized, and manually searched for additional

references.

Results: We identified five main domains of health:

biological, psychological, social, behavioral, and

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 41

spiritual. Key principles identified in the literature and

integrated in the framework include: 1) discipline-based

epidemiological and clinical variables, 2) complex and

bi-directional casual relationships between domains;

and 3) subjective and self-perceived measures of health

and well-being.

Conclusions: Health Ŕ or global health Ŕ is defined as a

holistic phenomenon simultaneously emerging from,

and underpinning the expression of illness/wellness in

various health domains. Similarities exist between the

concepts of global health and Vital Force used in

Homœopathy. Integrating discipline-based elements

with global health may help to bridge current gaps

between disciplines and paradigms of health.

XLVIII. Medical and social impact of the

homœopathic consultation on mothers. Anne

TAILLEFER. Université du Québec á Montréal

(UQAM) (HOM. 99, 2/2010).

Background: Homœopathic medicine, as a complex

system, requires innovative evaluative approaches.

Inclusion of qualitative research methods along with

well adapted RCTs can markedly increase our

knowledge by addressing why an intervention works,

and how participants experience benefits and derive

meaning from it. There is little sociological research

done exclusively on Homœopathy. In Quebec, as in

many western societies, Homœopathy has no legal

legitimacy, despite an increase in homœopathic

consultation.

Objectives: To explore, in Quebecřs sociopolitical

context, a) how mothers (as Řcaring laborř) get to

consult a homœopath and for what reasons; b) why they

then adopt this health practice; and most importantly c)

the evaluation of its long term medical and social

impact on health.

Methods: Qualitative research using thematic analysis,

taking the perspective of social constructionism and

standpoint epistemology for the study of interviews with

mothers.

Results: Giving a voice (back) to participating women,

we learn about a) the difficult trajectory that leads to

homœopathic consultation; b) the various

transformations that effect health behaviours and

empowerment; c) the unequivocal therapeutic

effectiveness of Homœopathy on acute and chronic

health problems; d) socioeconomic benefits, such as

reduced medical visits and medication.

Conclusions: Homœopathic consultation offers a

unique social environment which permits the sharing of

expert-lay knowledge. Its therapeutic efficacy,

emphasizing womenřs discourse on the subject, could

provide a long term solution for the multiple needs of

Quebecřs health care system. This research will also

permit revision of previous studies, which simplistically

attributed the effectiveness of Homœopathy to

consultation length or patientsř beliefs.

XLIX. Safety, tolerability and effectiveness of the

homœopathic preparation

Euphorbium compSN for the symptomatic treatment of

rhinitis in young children. Ilie Urlea-Schön, Vitalia

Marinella Corgiolu. Zentrum für Ganzheitsmedizin,

Siegen, Germany; Biologische Heilmittel Heel GmbH,

Baden-Baden, Germany.

Background: Homœopathic therapies are common for

symptomatic treatment of rhinitis in children. Few

safety data are available from postmarketing studies.

Objectives: To study safety, tolerability and within the

limits of the study design, effectiveness, of the

homœopathic preparation Euphorbium comp SN

(Euphorbium) in young children in clinical practice.

Methods: Prospective non-interventional, observational

study in 25 German practices. Children aged 2-6 years

with acute rhinitis (physiciansř diagnosis) received nasal

Euphorbium spray (3 x 1 puffs/day). No concomitant

nasal-spray therapies were given. Adverse Events

(AEs) were recorded. Tolerability was assessed by

physicians and parents separately. The primary

effectiveness variable was overall symptomatic

improvement.

Results: 283 subjects were followed for 6.6 ± 2.1 days.

Mean age was 4.1 ± 1.1 years; 47% were girls. At

inclusion, mean duration of illness was 5.4 ± 10.7 days.

97% of physicians (96% of parents) reported Řvery

goodř or Řgoodř tolerability. One (0.4%) probably

treatment-related AE was reported: mild, transcient

burning sensation in the nasal mucosa, which resolved

after discontinuation of therapy. There were no serious

AEs. 48% of subjects had moderate to severe

symptoms at first visit and 6% at final observation.

Similar improvements were seen on specific symptoms.

At study end, 95% of subjects improved, 82% were free

of all symptoms and 89% had no sneezing or itchy nose.

The mean time between starting therapy and first

improvement was 2.1 ± 1.3 days.

Conclusions: Euphorbium comp SN is well tolerated

and appears effective for symptomatic treatment of

acute rhinitis in children in clinical practice.

XLX. Twelve clinical cases of Ecezema cured by

Borax.

Twelve children, between 5 months and 10 years

old, were treated by Borax MK (one dose) with success.

Most of the cases had pathological pregnancy or

delivery: threatened miscarriage, difficult delivery,

caesarean due to impending eclampsia or breech

presentation, prematurely. In one case, the mother fell

downstairs, and in another case, mother and child were

separated immediately after the delivery while the infant

was admitted to neonatal intensive care. Mother and

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 42

child were nearly always intensely close, the father

sometimes rejected.

The fears of these children are numerous: fear of

slight noises, of downward motion, of being touched, of

going to toilets. We should think of Borax when we

encounter problems of separation, autonomy, or

rejection.

(Philippe L. Revue Belge dřHomœopathie 2009; 1: 140-

155.) (HOM. 99, 2/2010).

XLXI. Indigo tinctoria.

The author describes a clinical case of back pain

and hypothyroidism in a 37 year old man. This patient

had a peculiar sensation of enlargement of his face and

of his thyroid, and dreamt of flying. The main

symptoms of this remedy are recalled: active persons,

flushes of heat from stomach to face, rheumatic

affections aggravated by rest and sitting, ameliorated by

motion, worms with anal itching, convulsion preceded

by anger or excitation, easy vomiting, epistaxis after

sneezing, palpitations and rush of blood to head.

(NICOLAS F. Revue Belge dřHomœopathie 2009;2:

170-186.) (HOM. 99, 2/2010).

XLXII. Aranea Diadema

This article begins with a clinical case of a man, 47

years old, who had atypical neurological symptoms

withdrawing from intravenous drug abuse. He had

cirrhosis due to hepatitis C, and AIDS treated with

combined antiretroviral therapy. He felt as if his arms

were too long, as if everything was unreal and made

mistakes in speaking. The repertorization indicated

Aranea diadema. After Aranea 200k all the

neurological and psychological symptoms disappeared

within ten days.

Other typical symptoms of this remedy include:

exact periodicity, icy coldness in bones, numbness

waking, sensitivity to damp, to music, to noise, to

vibration, restlessness, aggressiveness, fear of crowds

and narrow places, deep despondency and longing for

death.

(SUERINCK W. Revue Belge dřHomœopathie 2009;1:

69-76.) French-language journals reviewed by Philippe

Colin).

========================================

LIST OF JOURNALS

Full addresses of the Journals covered by this Quarterly

Homœopathic Digest are given below:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. AHZ: Allgemeine Homöopathische Zeitung, Karl F. Haug

Verlag, Hüthig GmbH, im Weiher 10, 69121, HEIDELBERG,

GERMANY.

2. AJHM: American Journal of Homœopathic Medicine, formerly

Journal of the American Institute of Homœopathy (JAIH). 801

N. Fairfax Street, Suite 306 Alexandria, VA 22314.

3. THE HINDU: Newspaper, Chennai Ŕ 600 002.

4. HCCR: Homœopathic Clinical Case Recorder, Dr. Subhash

Meher, Near Hotel Chanakya, Anandrishiji Marg, Burudgaon

Road, AHMEDNAGAR-414001.

5. HH: Homœopathic Heritage, B. Jain Publishers Overseas,

1920, Street No.10, Chuna Mandi, Paharganj, Post Box 5775,

New Delhi - 110 055.

6. HL: Homœopathic Links, Homœopathic Research & Charities,

F/s, Saraswat Colony, Linking Road, Santacruz (W), MUMBAI

Ŕ 400 054.

7. HOM: Formerly British Homœopathic Journal (BHJ),

Homœopathy, Faculty of Homœopathy, 29 Park Street West,

Luton, Bedfordshire, LU13BE, UK.

8. HT: Homœopathy Today, National Center for Homœopathy,

801, North Fairfax Street, Suite 306, ALEXANDRIA, VA.

22314, USA.

9. S & C: Science and Culture, Indian Science News Association,

92, Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, KOLKATA Ŕ 700 009.

10. ZKH: Zeitschrift für Klassische Homöopathie, Karl F. Haug

Verlag, Hüthig GmbH, Im Weiher 10, D-69121 HEIDELBERG,

GERMANY.

==================================================

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 43

PART II

(This Section contains abstracts/extracts from selected articles; even the entire article in some case)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. Historiographical aspects in Homœopathy

WAISSE DE PRIVEN, Silvia. I.

(IJHDR. 2, 5/2003)

The traditional approach in the history of medicine

Ŕ Pedro Laín Entralgo, Paul Diepgen, Antonio

Castiglioni, Roy Porter, to mention only a few names Ŕ

states that Homeopathy arose outside the mainframe of

positive Medicine, a kind of tangential strange body.

But most surprisingly, homeopathic historians also seem

to agree to this ahistorical status of Homeopathy Ŕ

obviously, on different grounds. (Priven, 2002, p.8)

Hence, it may be said that as a rule, Homeopathy is

considered a historical orphan.

This article compares both approaches mentioned

above. We chose Lester S. Kingřs The medical world of

the eighteenth century from the Positivist traditional

approach, as this author is frequently quoted in the

specialized bibliography concerning the Medicine of the

18

th

century. Laín Entralgo chose him to write several

chapters of his impressive History of Medicine, which

may serve as proof of Kingřs merits. In this article, we

will discuss the sixth chapter of the book mentioned

above, ŖSimilia Similibusŗ.

From the homeopathic apologists, we chose

Richard Haehl

1

, as his Samuel Hahnemann: Sein Leben

und Schaffen is held as the most accurate and complete

historical-biographical account of Homeopathy and its

founder. Unsatisfied with contemporary bibliography,

Haehl devoted himself to the search of documentary

sources, especially in their original German language,

amassing an impressive array of documents, including

Hahnemannřs personal correspondence. The resulting

work was organized in two volumes; in the first, he tells

the history of both Homeopathy and Hahnemann, the

second consists of transcriptions of original documents.

In both cases, our hermeneutic approach was

designed to highlight the historiographical foundations

of each author´s work. That is to say, we didnřt focus on

the data offered but on the explicit and implicit

epistemologic and historiographical assumptions that

directed each work. We had to take into account the

obvious asymmetry arising from the fact of comparing a

single chapter of a book and a full two-volume work.

1

1873-1923. Homeopathic physician from Stuttgart.

Member of the German Central Homeopathic Society;

received his doctorate from the Hahnemann Medical

College of Philadelphia.

A positivist approach

Following an established tradition in homeopathic

history, King discusses his version of the history of

Homeopathy in intimate relation to the biography of its

founder. He grounds his analysis on one single

bibliographical source, Thomas L. Bradfordřs work. As

homeopathic apologists, who usually fill their books

with exaggerated exaltations of the figure of

Hahnemann, also King makes his feelings explicit, only

that in his case, are feelings of the deepest possible

disgust.

Any historical approach must restrict itself to a

history of ideas. Yet King makes use of

psychopathologic categories and judgments. This may

be shown by the expressions he privileged all along the

text: he uses adjectives such as Ŗimbecileŗ (King, 1958,

p. 188) to allude to Hahnemann, his ideas provoked the

Ŗjustified vomit of some criticsŗ (King, 1958, p. 181),

Homeopathy is a Ŗmonstrous abortionŗ (King, 1958, p.

189).

Not yet satisfied, King decides to psychiatrically

diagnose Hahnemann, concluding that he was a

delirious paranoid, who eventually ended by creating a

parallel imaginary world for himself, alienated from

reality, where he ruled as a king at the center of a court

of adulators (King, 1958, pp. 157; 174-176; 179-180) .

Mental disease affected too his affective and familiar

relationships, which didnřt escape King´s venomous pen

(King, 1958, p. 175).

His despise reaches such levels, that he dares to

state that Hahnemann wasnřt the founder of any

medicine; moreover, he did not have any skills to be a

physician (King, 1958, pp. 189-190). His unfitness

included too his intellectual abilities, which range,

according to King, from Ŗunskilledŗ to Ŗlacking

judgmentŗ (King, 1958, pp. 157; 178; 183; 185-186).

The only reasonable approach to deal with Hahnemann

is contempt and laughter (King, 1958, pp. 181-185).

Kingřs anachronic attitude is self-evident. We may

be tempted to classify him as a whiggish author, as he

appeals to contemporary categories to judge the past.

Yet he doesnřt even try to recover from the past features

that what may still be of value in Ŕ or presage Ŕ the

present, but he merely judges past science by present

day standards.

So that he once and again falls prey to

contradiction. For instance, King states that although

Homeopathy developed in the 19th century and that

Hahnemann Ŗlived 40 years into the 19th centuryŗ

Ŗ(King, 1958, p. 188), from a historical point of view

both Hahnemann and Homeopathy belong to the 18th

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 44

century as this medical approach was Ŗborn from the

medical problems of the 18th century, it employs the

logic of the 18th century, it grew around 18th century

conceptsŗ (King, 1958, p. 191). Only that immediately

he contradicts himself by stating that Ŗif he had lived at

the beginning of the [18th] century, he would have

established exactly the same doctrineŗ.

Without putting into question the accuracy of the

statements above, it is evident an essential flaw in

King´s thinking: how one and the same doctrine may be

a product of the 18th century but be unaffected by 18th

century developments? If Homeopathy actually Ŗarose

from 18

th

century medical excessesŗ, employing 18th

century conceptual and methodological categories, how

could it have been Ŗexactly the sameŗ at the beginning

of the century?

Kings approach attacks the basic foundations of a

history of sciences. Yet he seems impervious to

contradiction: he goes on to explain that in 1837, Oliver

Wendell Holmes definitively Ŗdemolishedŗ

Homeopathy in an article published in William

Whewell´s celebrated History of the inductive science

(King, 1958, p. 157). Itřs, hence, incomprehensible why

King brings proof of further Ŗdemolitionsŗ (King, 1958,

p. 157). We cannot help wondering how it may be

possible to Ŗdemolishŗ so many times a single work. If

it had been destroyed, as King states, there would be

nothing left to be further destroyed!

Attacking Hahnemann from every possible side,

King continues by stating that Hahnemann lacked

practical medical experience Ŕ one of the reasons that

help to explain his deviations. The fact that he saw

patients Ŗfrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from to 2:00

to 4:00 p.m.ŗ (King, 1958, p. 174), doesnřt seem enough

to King, neither the fact that at 66 he would Ŗsee many

patientsŗ and that he was Ŗthe most fashionable

physician in Parisŗ (King, 1958, p. 176). To King´s

prejudiced eye, any circumstance in Hahnemann´s life

may be only assessed under a negative light:

King forsakes so deeply the proper attitude of a

historian that he even appeals to literary devices,

inventing dialogues that Hahnemann never had with

himself, told in the first person and preceded by the

introduction, ŖWe may imagine him thinking...ŗ (King,

1958, p. 165).

Concerning Hahnemann´s self-experimentation

with Cinchona Ŕ that would eventually lead to

Homeopathy Ŕ King contradicts himself once again,

stating that it was methodologically Ŗexcellentŗ (King,

1958, p. 165) and Ŗflawedŗ (King, 1958, p. 190).

To summarize, to King Homeopathy own existence

is an absurd (King, 1958, p. 179), a sort of magic (King,

1958, p. 181), whose adherents do not hearken anymore

to the voice of reason (King, 1958, p. 182). The only

thing that Hahnemann did right was to criticize the

current therapeutics of his time.

The partisan defense

Haehl begins his work making explicit his

historiographical approach. He says that he is following

a tradition inaugurated by Constantin Hering, who in

1847 published an article where he stated that an

accurate understanding of Homeopathy demands a

thorough knowledge of Hahnemann´s biography,

including not only his academic and other activities but

also the detail of his personal and familiar life and his

moral attitude (Hering apud Haehl, 1922, Vol. 2,

preface [first page]).

Haehl explains that Bradford abide by these rules in

his 1895´s book, but nonetheless, it is incomplete and

containing several errors as its author was not a

German. Hence, it is implicitly affirmed, that only a

German may be able to accurately interpret

Hahnemann´s life. He mentions other arguments,

especially the fact that Bradford hadnřt access to many

original documents.

Endowed with the advantage of citizenship, Haehl

devoted himself to travel through Germany looking

successfully for such documents, which are transcribed

in the second volume of his work. This may represent

Haehl´s main contribution to the history of Homeopathy

and ought to be welcomed with thankfulness as it truly

facilitates any later historian´s work. Concerning his

hermeneutic approach, Haehl once again makes his

position explicit: heřll try to objectively describe the

path of Hahnemann´s life and thought.

Yet, by the end of the preface, Haehl cannot help

introducing personal opinions. He strongly believes that

Medicine has progressed. ŖProgressŗ means to him, the

shift from mechanism to vitalism so that he attributes

current therapeutic advancement to the assimilation of

homeopathic doctrine into medical ideas.

This argument allows us to inscribe him in a

Sartonian view of the history of Medicine: Medicine has

reached its goal, Hahnemann destroyed all previous

medicine, and set forth the definitive foundations of the

science of healing.

In short, these are Haehl´s main historiographical

ideas. Let´s review them. In the first place, the idea that

a history of Homeopathy must necessarily include

Hahnemann´s biography was first introduced by Hering

and has been unquestioned until the present Ŕ even

King, as we have seen, shares this opinion. But this

should call our attention, as in general, scientific ideas

are never related to the minutia of their proponentsř

lives. Is this another homeopathic idiosyncrasy?

Second, homeopathic writers have created a kind of

mythology, transmitted from generation to generation,

as a tradition. For instance, the only source concerning

Hahnemann´s early years is an autobiography written in

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 45

1791

2

. We had already discussed the accuracy of the

data shown in this work (Priven, 2002). What we want

to discuss here is the fact that no single homeopathic

historian has ever tried to check the accuracy of such

data: they come straight from the Ŗmasterŗ, so they must

be true.

Finally, Hahnemann is portrayed as a revolutionary

that broke with all scientific medicine of the past,

founding the only possible scientific medicine of the

future, so that he is alienated from the scientific

framework of his time and thus, we arrive to same

conclusion as Kingřs: Homeopathy is a historical

orphan.

Conclusions

We have compared two historians, from two

different periods, one of them clearly opposed to

Homeopathy;the other, overtly devoted to the task of

showing it under the most favorable light.

Surprisingly, both conclude that Hahnemann was

completely outside from history, having developed con-

cepts and methods absolutely alien to his time. One of

them tries to explain his insanity; the other, his genius.

But in truth, both are nothing but the two faces of the

same coin of the Positivist currency.

According to the Ŗofficial historyŗ, Hahnemann lost

the track of progress. Although he started by a most

welcomed criticism of current therapeutics, his lack of

skills and his mental disease led him to a doctrine whose

mere existence offends the sensibility of the historian of

science.

According to the Ŗpartisan defenseŗ (Jütte,1999), it

is the opposite situation. But in order to Ŗdiscoverŗ

Homeopathy, Hahnemann had to abandon Medicineřs

main street Ŕ as he himself wrote in the preface to the

first edition of the Organon (Hahnemann, 1810, p. II).

Both approaches are grounded on a Positivist

conception of progress. To King, Homeopathy is a

Ŗmonstrous abortionŗ; in Haehlřs view, the final goal of

any scientific Medicine.

This situation may represent a mere chapter of the

history of science, but most regrettably, both positions

are equally sustained today

3

. This is the reason why we

2

Published for the first time in 1799 by J.K.P. Elwart

in his Nachrichten von dem Leben und den Schriften

jetztlebender teutscher Aerzte, Wundärzte, Paotheker

und Naturfoscher (Hahnemann, 2001, p. 116). Haehl,

mistakenly, believed that the first publication was an

anonymous version of 1851, published by Hinrich under

the title title Christian Friedrich Hahnemann: Ein

biographisches Denkmal.

3

As an example of the Positivist approach, R. Lafetá

Novaes, O Tempo e a Ordem: Sobre a Homeopatia, of

the partisan apology, J C Pellegrino, ŖPrincipios

believe that further research of the relation between

Hahnemann and his historical background is necessary.

========================================

2. Infertility and homeopathy

Case Report

(IJHDR. 2, 5/2003)

Case description

Female, 39 year-old patient. Consulted in May,

2003 with uterine myomata diagnosed 6 years earlier.

Very concerned about her fertility, she had tried

unsuccessfully to conceive for 9 years. Other

complaints: constipation, flatulence, hay fever, acne.

Symptoms and themes

* ŖTo have a child is to give love, to receive love, as

if I had received much love and would give it to

somebodyŗ; ŖIf I canřt have a child, to be happy Iřll

adopt a child, or raise more puppies, I love soft things,

to hold them, to pat them, the people I like, I like

physical contact, to give and receive love. If I canřt have

nor adopt a child, Iřll give love to animalsŗ; ŖAnguished

upon seeing a lost dog on the street, if I could, I would

take them all with me.ŗ

* ŖI feel bad when I hurt people; when I realize I'm

wrong, I need to talk to them, to show the other that it

wasnřt intentional. I like to apologize.ŗ

* Playing: ŖOur house is made for leisureŗ; ŖI

couldn't playŗ; ŖAt home, we play, we pretend we are

little children and we want children to play with them.ŗ

* Oneřs word: ŖI felt I broke my wordŗ; ŖOneřs word

is very importantŗ; ŖThey said I had no word, I felt very

badŗ.

* Stitching pain in the area of the uterus, 2 days

before menses and during coition.

* Perfumes and makeup provoke redness on the face,

specially around the mouth, no matter where they are

applied.

* Desire for pasta.

* Heartburn after eating fish.

* Aversion to spicy and fatty food.

* Lack of perspiration.

* Thirst increased.

* Desire for alcoholic beverages.

* Beer: desire + aggravation

* Ailments from suppressed anger.

* Soft, submissive temperament.

* Dreams: airplane accident (repetitive, since

childhood).

fundamentales de la Homeopatíaŗ, in AMHA, Tratado

de doctrina homeopática, p. 41.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 46

* Oily skin.

* Pimples, worst by external touch and before menses.

* Sensation as if something moves in abdomen.

Physical examination

No significant data.

Lab tests

Endovaginal Doppler Ultrasound showing huge

subserous myoma on the left side of the uterus (4.6 X

3.8 X 7.6 cm), and a second smaller one on the anterior

wall.

Diagnoses

1- Clinical: myomata; constipation; acne; hay fever.

2- Dynamic: slight injury (anatomical damage of

nonvital organ).

3- Miasmatic: covert egotrophy (according to Masi

Elizaldeřs classification).

Strategy

Maximal Value Minimal Syndrome composed by:

I- Delusion, an accident would happen + Delusion, a

train-engine was going to run over her + Dreams,

accidents + Dreams, disaster + Dreams, something

would happen+ Fear, accidents + Fear, disasters.

II- Face, redness, mouth, around + Face, redness, chin.

III- Affective + Affect, need of.

IV- Generalities, alive, internally, sensation of

something + Abdomen, alive, sensation of something.

Comparing the remedies obtained by simple

repertorial analysis with their pure Materia Medica,

Pulsatilla was chosen, which was prescribed at the

CH200

th

, single dose, and later at the CH300

th

and 1M,

according to clinical evolution.

Results

The patient conceived a child immediately after

taking Pulsatilla CH1M (3

rd

month of treatment). The

pregnancy is still in progression at the time of the

present publication.

Discussion

The present case report is relevant on several

grounds. First, it shows the instant effect of the

homeopathic remedies. Second, it shows that vitality

may be restored to a normal performance of

physiological functions notwithstanding the presence of

anatomical impediments. Finally, a word concerning

the choice of the remedy. The full repertorial analysis of

all symptoms listed did not indicate Pulsatilla;

moreover a thematic approach, added to key-note

symptoms indicated Ignatia amara. Yet, the selection of

a few (four!) extremely characteristic symptoms,

constitutive of the patientřs individuality, suggested

other medicinal alternatives, including the remedy that

produced the desired outcome.

Conclusions

It is generally thought that homeopathic remedies

are effective but Ŗtake too long to actŗ. Yet, it would be

more reasonable to think that a remedy whose effect

does not relate to its matter but to some kind of

Ŗenergeticŗ action, would act immediately. Vitalism

involves a most peculiar understanding of the biologic

phenomena, completely against the materialist-

mechanist paradigm characteristic of contemporary

Biomedicine.

Homeopathy developed outside the frame of

Ŗofficial scienceŗ; not only out of external exclusion,

but also by a sort of auto-exclusion. One way to correct

this negative trend, is to publish well-documented case

reports, which is the aim of the present article.

========================================

3. Editorial: Unpredictable dice, addicted boards

(IJHDR. 3, 9/2004)

ŖBefore stopping

at some last point that consecrates it

Every Thought sends forth

One Toss of the Diceŗ

ŖOne Toss of the Diceŗ, by Stephane Mallarmé

Itřs an honor to affirm that the magazine Cultura

Homeopática has became, at the same time, a reference

and a novelty in the homeopathic field. It happened

more due to the effort of the authors who Ŕ in an area of

very low productivity Ŕ has concentrated their entire

endeavor to present the best in research and reflection

about our art, than due to the merit of all the CH team.

In this special and bilingual edition, that is annual,

some of our best brains entered in our list of articles

trying what all the ones who do research should look

for: make phenomena talk again, unveil what is under

the surface until the digging starts to show meanings,

evidences, sometimes conclusions, certainly the

unexpected.

The unicists are finally stepping down the pedestal

to show that there is another kind of clinical Ŗproof ŗ.

And this time without things inapplicable and showy,

nor the mecanicist reduction. There are still the ones

that believe in the strategy of Ŗhidingŗ their brilliant

cases without ask themselves to which secret posterity

they will keep them in the end.

Thatřs why we present here this interesting case

report ŖTreatment of chronic dishydrosisŗ, written by

Leni Hatsue Yoshihassu. The case was elaborated by

EPHřs students and teaching assistants who were

inductors and witnesses of an interesting homeopathic

interference in an academic environment, which has the

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 47

advantage of allowing a more shared and dialogued

analysis of evolution, suppression and clinical conduct.

This is also the spirit of Vanessa Guimarãesřs work,

who brings us her epidemiological lucidity to show that

yes, a method of investigation mathematically and

probabilistically measurable, and, at the same time, that

respects the theoretical and practical presuppositions of

homeopathic proceeding is possible. Extremely complex

but also enforceable, it considers that the quantitative

epidemiological chance of homeopathy is doing studies

having the subject as its own control.

The work of Marcia Gutierrez et als., ŖValidation

of techniques and methods for the impregnation of

homeopathic globulesŗ, translates the healthy awareness

of validating the proceedings of homeopathic

pharmacotechnique with methodic and clearing

proceedings. Thatřs an area in which Brazilian

homeopathic pharmacotechnique is, with no doubt, one

of the most prolific and influent.

The editor of this magazine and Silvia W. Priven

present ŖSome reflections about symptoms in

homeopathyŗ, trying to evidence what can be called the

atom of homeopathy: the symptom. Thatřs a vital

subject, even being a discussion postponed by

homeopathic community. Especially when this point of

view doesnřt starts from something given, but

understood from its roots: What does configure a

symptom? How can it be divided? Which are the

semiotic and therapeutic implications involved in its

admission, for example, that there are constitutive

symptoms and marker symptoms in the evolution of a

clinical case?

We still have the erudite article ŖDid Hahnemann

plagiarize Thomas de Aquina?ŗ, by Silvia W. Priven,

who uses the historiographical technique of analysis.

She approaches the polemic question about the

supposed plagiarism made by Hahnemann, who would

have evoked ideas and entire texts of Thomas de Aquina

without mentioning him as a source. The Argentinean

homeopath Masi-Elizalde was pretty convinced of this

aspect and pursued anxiously an impugnment that could

satisfy him intellectually. Let the readers check in which

plagues his pleas circulate.

Amarilys de Toledo César et als., in ŖDynamization

techniques. Divergences between the proposals of

Hahnemann, and todayřs practicesŗ, also evokes a

fundamental pharmacotechnique question: Was there

any kind of change in relation to a better comprehension

of the fundaments established by Hahnemann?

The article ŖOntogenesis of illnessŗ, by our gaucho

colleague Renato Sampaio de Azambuja, develops

reflections about Maturanařs autopoiesis, showing that

the interfaces in perception of the health-disease

phenomena that touches a vitalist rationality. So points

of interface to homeopathy underlies in the article, even

that any linear transposition of an episteme to the other

should present the traditional difficulties of linkage.

The article ŖBiomedical semiotics and its limits:

opening up paths between the subtle and the evidentŗ,

by Amarylis Triana, follows the path of her thesis and

shows that the tune and the differences between

different semiotics can be a way of knowing the

specificities of each rationality. And itřs in this

trajectory that she detects the problems of biomedical

semiotics.

We couldnřt forget to mention in this edition, with

the explicit purpose of make a homage to a person who

will be recognized in some point of History as the one

who transmitted to us definitively an inexorable path to

the elucidation of infinitesimal doses. We are talking

about Jacques Benveniste, the French immunologist

who, among other contributions to immunopathology

and alergology, dared to look for necessary explanations

- against the bet of scientificist fundamentalism - to

build a more scientific rule to homeopathy. His decease

occurred on October 2nd, in Paris, in 69 years old.

Press announced the fact all over the world and at big

Brazilian centers.

Even if basic research isnřt enough to validate

alone the homeopathic proceedings, Benveniste

relighted the debate that used to be warm and took it to

the point of incandescence inside the hardcore of

contemporary science. What drived more the attention

it was the emphasis on the fact that he would have

turned in to a joke among the scientists due to the

methodological flaws Ŕ admitted afterwards - in his

famous work about ŖWater Memoryŗ, published in

Nature magazine in 1988. The same media also

published that he would have died Ŗconvincedŗ of his

pretense Ŗ Ŗ. What was not published is that his theories

about the biological action of infinitesimal doses has

been rescued in European important labs and research

centers as a valuable contribution to nanotechnology

and to the behavior of water.

Even if the redeem havenřt occurred the most

important here is to emphasize that Benveniste enters

the role of the ones who feed knowledge with the

enlightenment progress, even if the cost was his own

reputation, maybe the abbreviation of his life.

Canguilhen, Thomas Khun and Paul Feyrabend already

mentioned that every challenge to established science

generates, in the first moment, refusal and repulse. Only

the future, always more indulgent and fixing, reserves a

judgment less full of prejudices to the ones that dare to

roll the dice of uncertainty in the addicted board of

convictions.

========================================

4. Did Hahnemann plagiarize Aquinas?

WAISSE DE PRIVEN, Silvia. I.

(IJHDR. 9, 3/2004)

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 48

The status of Homeopathy as scientific medicine

has been problematic since its inception. Along the 19th

century, medical approaches which dated from the

Antiquity were finally overcome, while new models

were formulated in order to build medicine on sound

Ŗscientificŗ grounds.

1

Homeopathy emerged as one of

such new proposals. It was only natural that a thick

shield would be erected around it.

2

Such defensive strategy, allied to other political,

sociological and economic factors, may help to explain

how it was that homeopathy severed itself from the

outer scientific medical world, transforming its

literature into an almost sacred corpus, which was to be

transmitted with no changes whatever to future

generations.

3

The instance we discuss here may be considered a

paradigmatic example of the hypothesis above. It

alludes to one of the most polemic stances in

contemporary homeopathy.

Alfonso Masi Elizalde (Argentina, 1932-2003)

suggested a new model for homeopathy grounded on

Thomas Aquinas Scholastic philosophy. This view

resulted in an original approach to homeopathic theory

and practice, that gathered over many followers around

the world in a short time.

Masi Elizalde views may be summarized as

follows

4

. Argentinian homeopathy witnessed an

1

S. Priven, ŖHahnemann, um médico de seu tempo.

Articulação da doutrina homeopática como

possibilidade da medicina do século XVIIIŗ.

Dissertation, Masterřs Degree in the History of

Sciences. Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São

Paulo, 2002.

2

R. Jütte, ŖHistoriography of Non Conventional

Medicine in Germany: A Concise Overviewŗ. Medicine

History, 43 (1999): 342-358.

3

This has been noticed by other authors. Cf, as an

example, A. Saine, ŖHeringřs Law: Law, Rule or

Dogmaŗ, Website of the Canadian Academy of

Homeopathy.

http://www.homeopathy.ca/articles/heriing_law.html

February 2004.

4

Masi Elizalde didnřt write any books. The only written

sources he left where the Proceedings of his Instituto de

Altos Estudos Homeopáticos ŖJames Tyler Kentŗ. He

would explain once and again that as his thought was

continuously changing, he was afraid that any work

would be outdated even at the moment of its

publication. On the other hand, he spent the last 20

years of his life giving lectures in Europe and South

America. A number of his Brazilian lectures were taped

and stored at the library of the Escola de Homeopatia,

amazing evolution in the second half of the 20th

century, especially under the influence of Tomás Pablo

Paschero (1904-1986), a student of Grimmer who, in his

turn, was a direct student of James T. Kent. Pascherořs

elaboration of homeopathy as a Ŗmedicine of the

personŗ or an Ŗanthropological medicineŗ eventually

turned to Psychoanalytic anthropology as such form of

psychotherapy found a fertile soil in Argentinian

society.

Masi Elizalde questioned such a bias, claiming that

homeopathic frameworks must be sought in

homeopathy itself instead of importing alien modes of

knowledge into it. This was the reason why he devoted

himself to the study of psychology, in order to be able to

detect indexes of homeopathyřs founder Christian F. S.

Hahnemannřs anthropological views.

5

Yet, when faced to the amazingly wide scope of

psychological theories, he didnřt know where to begin.

Thus he decided to choose what he thought it was the

most classical, less questioned, psychological approach,

i. e., Scholastic psychology. It was while reading

Aquinasř 13

th

century Summa Theologica that he was

stricken by a dazzling realization: he found

Hahnemannřs exact words in the pages of the Summa.

He felt it was sound enough to justify an

epistemological leap that allowed him to infer an

absolute identity between Aquinas and Hahnemannřs

thought. Hence he devoted the second phase of his

research to read homeopathy through Scholastic lenses,

which fully convinced him of the actuality of his initial

insight.

This approach finally resulted in a most novel

approach to homeopathic theory and practice, extremely

fruitful in therapeutic terms.

On the other hand, a religious - actually, a Roman

Catholic - homeopathic approach was naturally destined

to give rise to the most heated polemics. Many

distinguished practitioners felt morally offended by the

inclusion of religion into medicine. Fiery arguments

were followed by many attempts to refute Elizaldeřs

views, especially his basic tenet: Hahnemann had

grounded homeopathy on Scholastic philosophy.

Elizalde claimed to possess Ŗmany proofsŗ of

Hahnemannřs Scholasticism. Yet, as years went by, he

reduced such Ŗproofsŗ to a central thesis: Hahnemann

São Paulo. Such tapes and personal notes taken at

lectures by this author are the sources used in the

present article.

5

Itřs noteworthy that any discussion of homeopathy

inevitably begins with its founder. Science historian

Ana Maria Alfonso-Goldfarb explains that this is due to

the fact that homeopathyřs nature is essentially

historical. Personal communication.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 49

had plagiarized Aquinas.

6

And he didnřt plagiarize him

merely because he liked some of Aquinasř ideas or his

literary style, but such plagiarism was a sign of the

absolute identity of thought shared by both. That is to

say, Hahnemann didnřt quote the references he took

from Aquinasř work owing to negligence nor, worse,

dishonesty, but as both had exactly the same ideas, such

quotations were totally superfluous, or even unjustified.

What did Elizalde find in Aquinasř Summa that

convinced him so positively?

Ŗ... horns and nails, which are the weapons of some

animals, the thickness of the skin, hair and feathers that

cover them, constitute one more evidence of the earthly

element, which the homogeneity and delicacy of the

human complexion abhor; it was because of all of these

that they werenřt convenient for man. In their stead, he

has reason and the hands, through which he can seek by

himself all kinds of weapons, clothes and necessary

things to life, in a thousand different ways...ŗ

7

Upon reading the paragraph above Elizalde was

immediately reminded of similar ideas in Hahnemann:

ŖMan, regarded as an animal, has been created

more helpless than all other animals. He has no

congenital weapons for his defence like the bull, no

speed to enable him to flee from his enemies like the

deer, no wings, no webbed feet, no fins - no armour

impenetrable to violence like the tortoise, no place of

refuge provided by nature as is possessed by thousands

of insects and worms for their safety, no physical

provision to keep the enemy at bay, such as render the

hedgehog and torpedo formidable, no sting like the

gadfly, nor poison-fang like the viper; - to all the attacks

of the hostile animals he is exposed defenceless. He has,

moreover, nothing to oppose to the violence of the

elements and meteors. He is not protected from the

action of the water by the shining hair of the seal, nor by

the close oily feathers of the duck, nor by the smooth

shield of the water beetle; his body, but a slight degree

lighter than the water, floats more helplessly in that

medium than that of any quadruped, and is in danger of

instant death. He is not protected like the polarbear or

the eider-duck by a covering impenetrable to the

northern blast. At its birth the lamb knows where to

seek its motherřs udder, but the helpless babe would

perish if its motherřs breast were not presented to it.

6

During the last years of his life, Elizalde would not

merely insist on the truth of such Ŗplagiarismŗ in his

lectures, but he made it a personal mission to teach that

idea to his patients. Personal communication of

Elizaldeřs former patients.

7

Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologica, Q. 91st, art.

3rd. Buenos Aires, Club de Lectores, 1988, vol. IV, pp.

193-4.

Where he is born mature nowhere furnishes his food

ready made, as she provides ants for the armadillo,

caterpillars for the ichneumon fly, or the open petals of

flowers for the bee. Man is subject to a far larger

number of diseases than animals, who are born with a

secret knowledge of the remedial means for these

invisible enemies of life, instinct, which man possesses

not. Man alone painfully escapes from his motherřs

womb, soft, naked, defenceless, helpless, and destitute

of all that can render his existence supportable, destitute

of all wherewith nature richly endows the worm of the

dust, to render its life happy... Behold, the Eternal

Source of all love only disinherited man of the animal

nature in order to endow him all the more richly with

that spark of divinity - a mind - which enables man to

elicit from himself the satisfaction of all his

requirements.. - a mind, that indestructible itself, is

capable of creating for its tenement, its frail animal

nature, more powerful means for its sustenance,

protection, defence and comfort than any of the most

favoured creatures...ŗ

8

Elizaldeřs conclusion was absolutely

unquestionable: Hahnemann had plagiarized Aquinas,

since itřs only too Ŗevidentŗ the exact correspondence

between both texts and, as mentioned above,

Hahnemann didnřt quote the source where he had

obtained his. From this he inferred the Ŗidentity of

thoughtŗ between Hahnemann and Aquinas, which he

summarized by stating that Ŗhomeopathy is nothing but

Scholasticism applied into medicine, or Scholastic

medicineŗ.

Elizalde didnřt put forward his view as just one

amidst many others, but as the only possible path

leading to the understanding of Ŗhomeopathic

orthodoxyŗ, the true Hahnemannian homeopathy. On

these grounds, he submitted homeopathy to a Ŗcritical

reviewŗ, developing the plan he had designed: to

elucidate homeopathy from a Scholastic hermeneutical

perspective.

As mentioned above, such an approach

immediately became polemical, giving rise to two

irreconcilable Ŗsidesŗ: equally rabid partisans and

critics. Nevertheless, none was able to bring up nothing

but emotional claims, without being able to put forward

sound evidence to ground acceptance or rejection.

This impasse may be explained by the fact that

homeopathyřs episteme doesnřt include tools to perform

the kind of analysis this requires. As well as traditional

history of medicine, the historiography of homeopathy

seems to ignore that no single science can be analyzed

without referring it to its historical context.

8

Hahnemann, CFS ŖThe medicine of experienceŗ, in R

E Dudgeon (ed.,) The Lesser Writings. Nova Delhi, B.

Jain, [s.d.], pp. 435-6.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 50

The notion of Ŗplagiarismŗ doesnřt belong to the

historian of scienceřs vocabulary. Such a researcher

knows that when a scientist passes off anotherřs ideas as

his/her own, or his/her own ideas as if belonging to

someone else, this doesnřt automatically involves

Ŗplagiarismŗ. The requirement of citing sources is very

recent, it wasnřt as normative in the 18th century as in

the present time. On the other hand, during Antiquity

and the Middle Ages, it was common practice for an

unknown author, who wished to make his ideas known,

to pass them off as if belonging to some established

authority. This was how Ŗpseudo-Aristotleŗ, Ŗpseudo-

Geberŗ and many other Ŗpseudo-ŗappeared. Such

practice was no longer favored in the 18

th

century,

which thus represents the transition between this ancient

practice and our modern Ŗcopyrightŗ.

This historiographic fact would suffice to refute

Elizaldeřs idea of plagiarism, but further considerations

are in order. Our research let us find out that the text

quoted above isnřt originally authored by Aquinas. A lot

older is Plinyřs (1st century ) Natural History. This

encyclopedic work was the main reference concerning

natural history up to the time of Conrad Gesner (1516-

1565) - who, by the way, followed Plinyřs approach.

There it may be read:

Ŗ... of all other living creatures, man she hath

brought forth all naked, and cloathed him with the good

and riches of others. To all the rest, given she hath

sufficient to clad them everie one according to their

kind: as namely, shells, cods, hard hides, prickes,

shagge, bristles, haire, downe feathers, quils, skailes,

and fleeces of wool. The verie trunkes and stemmes of

trees and plants, she hath defended with barke and rind,

yea and the same sometime double, against the injuries

both of heat and cold: man alone, poore wretch, she hath

laid all naked upon the bare earth, even on his birthday,

to cry and wraule presently from the very first houre

that he is borne into this world: in such sort, as among

so many living creatures, there is none subject to shed

teares and weepe like him..

... How long is it ere we can goe alone? How long

before we can prattle and speake, feed our selves, and

chew our meat strongly? What a while continueth the

mould and crowne of our heads to beat and pant, before

our braine is well setled; the undoubted marke and

token that bewrayeth our exceeding great weakeneße

above all other creatures? What should I say of the

infirmities and sicknesses that soone seaze upon our

feeble bodies? What need I speake of so many

medicines and remedies devised against these maladies:

besides the new diseases that come everie day, able to

check and frustrate all our provision of Physicke

whatsoever? As for all other living creatures, there is

not one, but by a secret instinct of nature knoweth his

owne good, and whereto he is made able: some make

use of their swift feet, others of their flight wings: some

are strong of limme; others are apt to swimme, and

practice the same: man onely knoweth nothing unlesse

hee be taught; he can neither speake, nor goe, nor eat,

otherwise than he is trained to it: and to be short, apt

and good at nothing he is naturally, but to pule and

crie...

... Mans life is most fraile of all others, and in least

securitie he liveth: no creature lusteth more after every-

thing than he: none feareth like unto him, and is more

troubled and amazed in his fright: and if he be set once

upon anger, none more raging and wood than he. To

conclude, all other living creatures live orderly and well,

after their owne kind: we see them flocke and gather

together, and readie to make head and stand against all

others of a contrarie kind: the lyons as fell and savage as

they be, fight not one with another: serpents sting not

serpents, nor bite one another with their venimous teeth:

nay the verie monsters and huge fishes of the sea, warre

not amongst themselves in their owne kind: but beleeve

me, Man at mans hand receiveth most harme and

mischiefe...ŗ

9

Yet, thereřs a still older version of the same text,

belonging to an author that may be considered one of

the mainstays of Western culture. Weřre alluding to

Plato (5

th

century). In his dialogue ŖProtagorasŗ, he

elaborates on an ancient Hellenic myth concerning the

beginning of the world as an illustration of his ideas

about the World of Ideas and the Perceptible World:

ŖOnce upon a time there were gods only, and no

mortal creatures. But when the time came that these also

should be created, the gods fashioned them out of earth

and fire and various mixtures of both elements in the

interior of the earth; and when they were about to bring

them into the light of day, they ordered Prometheus and

Epimetheus to equip them, and to distribute to them

severally their proper qualities. Epimetheus said to

Prometheus: ŖLet me distribute, and do you inspect.ŗ

This was agreed, and Epimetheus made the distribution.

There were some to whom he gave strength without

swiftness, while he equipped the weaker with swiftness;

some he armed, and others he left unarmed; and devised

for the latter some other means of preservation, making

some large, and having their size as a protection, and

others small, whose nature was to fly in the air or

burrow in the ground; this was to be their way of

escape. Thus did he compensate them with the view of

preventing any race from becoming extinct. And when

he had provided against their destruction by one

another, he contrived also a means of protecting them

against the seasons of heaven; clothing them with close

9

Pliny, ŖPreface to book VIIŗ, Historioa Naturalis.

WebsiteJames Eason, University of Chicago. Version

of Philemon Holland (1601)

http://penelope.uchicago.edu/holland/pliny7.html July,

2003.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 51

hair and thick skins sufficient to defend them against the

winter cold and able to resist the summer heat, so that

they might have a natural bed of their own when they

wanted to rest; also he furnished them with hoofs and

hair and hard and callous skins under their feet. Then he

gave them varieties of food-herb of the soil to some, to

others fruits of trees, and to others roots, and to some

again he gave other animals as food. And some he

made to have few young ones, while those who were

their prey were very prolific; and in this manner the race

was preserved. Thus did Epimetheus, who, not being

very wise, forgot that he had distributed among the

brute animals all the qualities which he had to give, and

when he came to man, who was still unprovided, he was

terribly perplexed. Now while he was in this perplexity,

Prometheus came to inspect the distribution, and he

found that the other animals were suitably furnished, but

that man alone was naked and shoeless, and had neither

bed nor arms of defence. The appointed hour was

approaching when man in his turn was to go forth into

the light of day; and Prometheus, not knowing how he

could devise his salvation, stole the mechanical arts of

Hephaestus and Athene, and fire with them (they could

neither have been acquired nor used without fire), and

gave them to man. Thus man had the wisdom necessary

to the support of life... And in this way man was

supplied with the means of life....ŗ

10

And we were still able to find another version of

the same text. It belongs to British astronomer John F.

W. Herschel (1792-1871), thus a contemporary of

Hahnemannřs:

ŖThe situation of man on the globe he inhabits, and

over which he has obtained the control, is in many

respects exceedingly remarkable. Compared with its

other denizens, he seems, if we regard only his physical

constitution, in almost every respect their inferior, and

equally unprovided for the supply of his natural wants

and his defence against the innumerable enemies which

surround him. No other animal passes so large a portion

of its existence in a state of absolute helplessness, or

falls in old age into such protracted and lamentable

imbecility. To no other warm-blooded animal has nature

denied that indispensable covering without which the

vicissitudes of a temperate and the rigours of a cold

climate are equally insupportable; and to scarcely any

has she been so sparing in external weapons, whether

for attack or defence. Destitute alike of speed to avoid

and of arms to repel the aggressions of his voracious

foes; tenderly susceptible of atmospheric influences;

and unfitted for the coarse aliments which the earth

affords spontaneously during at least two thirds of the

year, even in temperate climates, - man, if abandoned to

10

Plato, Protagoras,

http://classics.mit.edu/Plato/protagoras.html The

Internet Classics Archive - MIT. July, 2003.

mere instinct, would be of all creatures the most

destitute and miserable... Remarkable only for the

absence of those powers and qualities which obtain for

other animals a degree of security and respect, he would

be disregarded by some, and hunted down by others, till

after a few generations his species would become

altogether extinct... Yet man is the undisputed lord of

the creation... The spoils of all nature are in daily

requisition for his most common uses, yielded with

more or less readiness, or wrested with reluctance, from

the mine, the forest, the ocean, the air. Such are the first

fruits of reason...ŗ

11

Weřve still have to take into account Hahnemannřs

particular cultural context. During the 18th century up

to the Treaty of Vienna (1815), present-day Germany

was still the Holy Roman Empire, which wasnřt a

political unity but a loose conglomerate of small feudal

states.

12

Heterogeneity wasnřt merely political but also

religious. Itřs noteworthy to remember that even today a

Germanřs religious identity is a fundamental value, very

different from the situation in South America.

13

Saxony, Hahnemannřs fatherland, was a Protestant

duchy. Itřs very difficult to believe that Hahnemann

learned Scholastic theology at Lutheran schools. Also

hard itřs to imagine that Hahnemann learned such a vast

and complex system during his stay in - equally

Protestant - Leipzig, where he not only had to attend

lectures, but he needed to do translations and give

private lessons to make a living.

We may think that he got acquainted with Aquinasř

works during his stay in Catholic Vienna. Yet, a new

obstacle arises: such visit lasted merely nine months,

which were devoted to the learning of practical

medicine.

For the sake of brevity, itřs very difficult - if not

impossible - to try and find out when it was that

Hahnemann became a Scholastic scholar in any period

of his life. Actually, whenever he explicitly refers to

Scholasticism, he does it in a most critical way.

14

11

John F. Herschel, A preliminary discourse on the

study of natural philosophy (1830). Chicago/Londres,

The University of Chicago Press, 1987, pp. 1-3.

12

M. Fulbrook, A Concise History of Germany.

Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 1990, p. 70.

13

Up to recent times, there was a compulsory tax, 8-9%

of wages destined to some religious community, called

the Kirchensteuer.

14

Cf, a few examples: The Lesser Writings, op. cit.,

ŖDietetic conversation...ŗ, p. 184; ŖA nursery...ŗ, p. 251;

ŖView of professional liberality...ŗ, pp. 364-5. Actually,

Enlightenment as a whole was strongly critical of

Scholasticism.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 52

Evidence suggests that it would be more reasonable

to infer that Hahnemann was better acquainted with

classical Greek authors, as we are told by himself in his

ŖAutobiographyŗ

15

, than with Roman Catholic

dogmatics, alien to his background and cultural

environment.

16

And from the strict perspective of text

analysis, itřs too obvious the asymmetry between

Aquinasř version and the remaining four.

Letřs examine the case of Herschelřs. Once again a

Protestant, and one whose family had originally been

Jewish. How are we to explain that also he learned

Catholic theology?

All evidences point to the fact that Elizaldeřs

hypothesis to explain the inclusion in ŖThe Medicine of

Experienceŗ of the text weřre discussing is not accurate.

Most probably, it was a common motive frequently used

along history and precisely for being so well known,

nobody would mention its original source. Itřs highly

probable that weřll keep finding it in the works of other

authors.

Homeopathy is established enough as not to be

afraid of reviewing its notions and methods. Itřs mature

enough as to face the ghosts and spirits it has inherited

together with the proper clinical and therapeutic corpus.

ŖExorcismsŗ as the one we performed here can only

contribute to the development of a truly Ŗscientificŗ

homeopathy. In this context, the tools provided by other

fields of knowledge ought to be welcomed.

========================================

5. Dynamization techniques. Divergences between the

proposals of Hahnemann and todayřs practices

CÉSAR Amarilys T., PEREIRA Cleudi,

SOLLERO Paula Azevedo, & ADLER Ubiratan

(IJHDR. 3, 9/2004)

In 1992 a group of medical doctors and

pharmacists

(1)

compared Hahnemannřs guidelines on the

15

C. F. S. Hahnemann, [ŖAutobiographieŗ] in J. M.

Schmidt & D. Kaiser (orgs.), Samuel Hahnemann:

Gesammelte kleinen Schriften. Heidelberg, Karl F.

Haug, 2001. Originally published in J. K. P. Elwert,

Nachrichten von dem Leben und den Scriften

jetzlebender teutscher Aertze, Wundärzte, Thierärzte,

Apotheker und Naturforscher. Hildesheim, 1799, vol.1,

195-201.

16

Besides the fact that Hahnemann toyed with Platořs

style, as in the dialogue, ŖSocrate et Physon. Les

apparences et la realité; où se trouve le bonheurŗ (1795),

Études de médecine homéopathique. Paris: Maloine,

1989. Vol. 2, pp. 260-265.

preparation of homeopathic medicines with the

proposals of pharmacopeias and textbooks on

homeopathic medicines

(1)

.

Homeopathy developed substantially in Brazil in

the past few years. New editions of pharmacopeias, both

Brazilian and foreign, were published or became

accessible, in addition to specific books on homeopathic

pharmaco-techniques. There was a large increase in

homeopathic training. Currently the teaching of

homeopathic pharmaco-techniques extends to diverse

diploma courses, including obligatory and optional

disciplines. Was there any change in relation to a better

understanding of the fundamentals established by

Hahnemann? Gauging the desired levels might make it

possible to compare results obtained by different

applications of the homeopathic therapeutic method,

with those achieved by diverse pharmacopoeia

proposals.

Objectives

• Highlight the propositions of Hahnemann for the

preparation of homeopathic medicines.

• Demonstrate that there are different

pharmacotechniques between Hahnemannřs proposals

and a large extent of what various pharmacopoeias and

text books prescribe.

• Reflect upon the possible consequences of the

differences in medicine preparation on their

effectiveness.

• Collaborate for a gauging of dynamization

techniques, and, consequently, on the results and

comparisons of homeopathic therapeutics.

In order to achieve our objectives, we used the 6

th

edition of the Organon by Hahnemann

(10)

, comparing

diverse topics selected as key aspects of pharmaco-

techniques with what is found in current editions of the

Brazilian pharmacopoeia, and a diversity of textbooks.

The 6th edition of the Organon

(11)

and the book on

chronic diseases (Doenças Crônicas)

(12)

as well were

used to compare with centesimal dynamizations.

Demonstration of different

pharmaco-techniques

1 - The process of dynamization

ŖHomeopathic medicine developed, for its special

uses, and to a hitherto unheard degree, the internal

medical powers of crude substances, through a peculiar

process known as dynamizationŗ

(10)

. This process

depends on:

- The intensity, and quantity of mechanical action

(triturations or grinding and sucussions) applied;

- The relationship between the attenuation means

(lactose, alcohol or distilled water) and the substance to

be dinamized.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 53

TABLE I: Comparison of differences observed in the guidelines of homeopathic medicine preparation technique in the centesimal scale,

proposed by Hahnemann and findings in various bibliographic references.

HAHNEMANN

BIBLIOGRAPHIC REFERENCES

Grinding

All substances need to be grinded

(12)

.

No need to triturate

(5-16)

.

Stages of grinding

Three grindings of one hour each, made in three

stages, each comprising two times 6-7 minutes of

grinding and 3-4 minutes of grating (i.e. 18 steps of

grinding)

(12)

.

One stage, undefined time

(3, 13,17, 20)

; three stages of six

minutes each

(19)

;six stages of six minutes

(3, 21)

; 18

stages of six minutes

(16, 15)

.

Intensity/strength of grinding

Strong, such that lactose not be compressed against

mortar and be grated in four minutes

(12)

.

German pharmacopoeia mentions intensity, requiring

that after the first six stages, 80% of particles have a

diameter of less than 10 microns, and none be larger

than 50 microns

(14)

. Grind vigorously

(7)

.

Method for the addition of lactose

Three de-concentrations in a series, in a proportion

of 1:100, resulting in a product a million times more

diluted that the initial one. In each stage, one grain

(0,06g) is de-concentrated with 100 grains of

lactose(6g), divided in three equal and successively

increased parts.

(12)

Continuous increase of lactose, up to100 times the

weight of the grinded substance

(3, 17, 18, 20)

; the

proportions of lactose correspond to 1/11, 1/33 and

1/55 (6g), divided in three equal and successively

increased parts.

(12)

of the 100 grains

(16)

; only two

attenuations at 10%(21); only proportions are

mentioned

(13)

.

Number and intensity of sucussions

Two, ten or more sucussions, perfomed with Ŗsome

strength

ŗ(12).

Ten sucussions

(16, 15)

; ten to 12

(21)

; at least ten

(14)

;

100

(7, 6)

; at least 100

(3, 17, 18, 20)

; 200

(19)

; not

mentioned

(13)

. Regarding intensity: vigorous

(13)

;

energetic

(6)

; other do not specify

(17, 21, 20)

.

The first factor refers to the amount of energy

applied on the system, and the second relates to the

proportion of dilution (or de-concentration) of the initial

and submitted matter, at each degree of potency.

*2 - Comparative analysis between the Hahnemannian

centesimal method (before the publication of the 6th

edition of the Organon) and current practice.

The table below includes various critical topics of

the Hahnemannian centesimal method, comparing the

original proposal with current practices.

3 - Comparative analysis between the fifty-

milesimal Hahnemannian (6th Edition of the Organon)

and those currently practiced.

Hahnemann considered his method, known today as

LM or fifty-milesimal, as the most developed for

dynamization. In a previous study, published in 1992,

this method included the German and Indian

pharmacopeias, although with differences from the

original Hahnemannian proposal

(14, 16, 8, 4)

. Today it

appears in the Brazilian, American and Mexican

homeopathic pharmacopeias

(7, 13, 6)

.

Are the failings observed in clinic homeopathy

caused, at least partly, by divergences in the methods

used for the preparation of medicine?

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 54

TABLE II: Comparison of differences observed in the guidelines of homeopathic medicine preparation technique in

the fifty-centesimal scale proposed by Hahnemann, and findings in various bibliographic references.

HAHNEMANN

BIBLIOGRAPHIC REFERENCES

Grinding, stages, intensity/strength, addition of lactose

Same as described for centesimal

(10)

.

Differences described in Table I.

Number and intensity of sucussions

100 vigorous sucussions

(10)

.

No specification on the number of

sucussions

(13)

and/or strength of sucussions

(7,

13, 15, 2)

Globules

The previous solution (degree I) is used for

humidification of globules of a determined

weight (100 weight 1 grain, or 0,06g)

(10)

.

The correct mass of globules is specified by

some authors(3, 7, 13, 16);and not by others,

who either do not describe them or do so

incorrectly

(14, 15)

. An impregnation requirement

of 500 globules

(7, 2)

.

Discussion

Dynamized medicine in the centesimal scale were

described in the pharmacopeias and textbooks reviewed.

The only expected change would be a modification in

the standardization of the processing stages by the

homeopathic practitioner. However, this modification

did not occur, and the statements about the use of

grinding, even for soluble substances, as proposed by

Hahnemann in 1835, long before the 6th edition of the

Organon, and therefore applied to centesimal potencies,

are still a cause for concern, even among homeopathic

pharmacists (

4, 5, 12)

.

A change related to the increased awareness of the

fifty-milesimal method in the more recent editions of

international homeopathic pharmacopeias. If in 1992 the

method was only included in the German and Indian

pharmacopeias, today it is also found in the Brazilian,

American and Mexican ones

(6, 7, 13, 14, 16)

.

It is important to discuss a number of topics, that in

our opinion are still incomplete and even incorrect, both

for the methods of the 5th as well as the 6th edition of

the Organon by Hahnemann.

It is worth mentioning that Hahnemann went from

the use of dry plants and juices from fresh plants to

tints, preferably achieving a grinding of all crude

material (understood as plants and fresh animals). If his

medicines, in those times, were dinamized in the

centesimal scale, he clearly referred to initially grind

substances that were then made soluble, diluted in the

proportion of 1:100 and Dynamized through two

moderate sucussions. It can be verified by the following

phrase:

ŖAfter the initial grinding, 1 grain of degree I

potency (or from the 3rd Product of grinding) needs to

be diluted in 100 drops of a hydro-alcoholic solution (50

drops of water and 50 drops of alcohol), and then this

solution needs to be shaken twice with a moderate

intensity. One drop of this solution needs to be added to

99 or 100 drops of pure alcohol, and then two moderate

sucussions need to be applied.

(12)

ŗ

The description of the process of grinding is

mentioned in the preface, in the chapter of medicine,

Chronic Illnesses, and later in paragraph 270 of the 6th

edition of the Organon. In this ways, there are no

reasons to modify the proposed technique, either by a

change in time, by the sequence of grinding/grating or

the addition of a solid diluent, lactose.

The solubilization of the 3rd grinding was proposed

as 1 grain (0,06g) in 100 drops of a hydro-alcoholic

solution, composed of 50 drops of water and 50 drops of

Alcohol

(12)

. It is important to mention that the ethanol

available in Europe, even today, is of a lower alcoholic

degree. It is assumed that Hahnemann must have had

alcohol with strength of close to 52%

(4)

. Thus, the

solution in equal parts would be closer to 26% and not

50%, with the ability of making a solution through the

grinding in lactose.

The number of sucussions was altered in the

various phases in which Hahnemann tested his

medicines. He only used two, afraid of the violent

effects that medicine dinamized with more sucussions

might produce in weak or sensible patients

(12, 9)

. It is

noteworthy that in each step a dynamization with ten

sucussions exceeded the moderating capacity that the

attenuation of the proportion of 1:100 on the strength of

the medicine. Thus, he did not achieve his aim to

moderate to a certain level the effectiveness of the

medicine, in terms of increasing its power to

penetrate

(12)

. In 1837, Hahnemann began to prepare

medicine with increases of ten sucussions, addressing

the problem of the violent effects of a single dose (be it

in globule, or its solution - as he used globules to

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 55

dispense liquids to his patients), splitting the single dose

in various smaller doses to be taken daily, or in alternate

days, during a period of 15, 20 or 30 days

(12)

.

His response to critics who doubted the

effectiveness of dynamizations was curious,

recommending the application of 10, 20, 50 or more

sucussions, as in this way more potent medicine would

be produced. He suggested that if the solutions were

mere dilutions destitute therapeutic activity, just by

shaking them they would become more potent

(12)

.

This happened in 1838, four years prior to his

death, and before the publication of the 6th edition of

the Organon. This text, known only many years after

his death, reiterated the dangers of diverse vigorous

shaking applied to a solution of 100:1. He presented a

new method, that according to his experience,

conciliated the effectiveness with softness of action,

through the application of 100 vigorous sucussions on a

dilution in excess of 50.000:1

(10)

. In this way we can

understand the reasons why Hahnemann varied the

number and the strength of the sucussions. In the

centesimal method, the preparation of dynamizations

with more than two sucussions (the original indication

of the 5th edition of the Organon

(11)

), was linked to the

indication of a fragmentation of the therapeutic dose. He

increased the number of sucussions when he preparared

solutions of centesimal potencies, administred en

various daily doses. Until 1837 Hahnemann used two

sucussions for his dynamizations. From this date on, he

started to use ten or more. We cannot consider

theexistence of a pharmaco-technical pattern related to

the number of sucussions for centesimal analysis, as

Hahnemann evolved the number of sucussions in

addition to the posology. Starting in1837, there was an

association of the dispensation of solutions in globules,

splitting them in doses to be ingested in various days.

This dose previously was single and now allowed for a

relative control of treatment. Later, he found a method

to increase dilution, allowing the shaking in a larger

number of times and with more strength, achieving a

medicine that combined softness (probably due to its

dilution) with effectiveness (due to numerous and

stronger sucussions). that the excess be dried with

paper, in conformity with indications found in

paragraph 270 of the 6th edition of the Organon

(10)

.

Considering LMs, it is interesting to note that in a

different manner from centesimals, which were altered

during many decades, the fifty-milesimals were

introduced in their definitive form almost a hundred

years after the death of Hahnemann. In principle this

should lead towards the single and correct following of

the technique. However, this has not happened yet,

when we compare the determinations of Hahnemann

with those founds in literature. The variations were

highlighted by several authors

(8, 4, 5)

.

In the case of the fifty-milesimals, we note that the

rules for grinding, a standard for this new method, relate

to the material to be grinded (in its crude state), or to the

stages, their duration, proportion of lactose and

intensity, as were described earlier

(10)

.

After solubilization of 1 grain of the 3rd grinding in

500 drops of a solution formed by 4 parts of water and 1

part of alcohol, a drop is added to 100 drops of ethanol.

The shaking of this solution must be vigorous, as

Hahnemann states, in a different manner than the former

ones. We think that this difference needs to be kept.

When the use of non-manual dynamization is chosen,

with the aid of a device known as Ŗmechanical armŗ, it

is not possible to keep this difference. We thus defend

manual sucussions, and that they be vigorous.

In relation to the stage of humidification of the

globules, it is important that their size be specified, and

followed. The use of larger than prescribed globules

leads to a smaller material de-concentration of

potencies. It is essential that the globules be

standardized in terms of their mass. In their production,

globules are split with the use of wire mesh; this is

related to their size and not their mass. The possibility

that globules of different lots present the same size, but

different mass, or vice-versa, has been observed.

Perhaps this fact is linked to globules with different

surface, rugosity and/or density. These are aspects that

need to be studied in the future, in a way to guarantee

the standardization of the amount of dynamization

absorbed in each stage, and therefore increased to the

next potency.

There is no need to use 500 globules, but of using

globules of a standard size, as well as guaranteeing their

complete humidification. Hahnemann does not impose

the use of exactly 50 globules, but he affirms that the

globules must be of such a size so that 500 of them can

be humidified with 1 drop of solution. This does not

mean that a larger number (for example 700) could not

be completely humidified with 2 drops of dilution, and

The German pharmacopoeia

(14)

favors the use of

globules of such a size that between 470 a 530 weight a

gram (and not that 100 weight 1 grain, or 0,06g). In this

case, 500 globules will weight 5 times, or 0,3g, and not

1g, as mentioned in the pharmacopoeia. The use of

larger globules than indicated leads to a smaller

dilution, and possibly to a larger frequency of

aggravations. According to Grimm, the pharmacopoeic

potency would be equivalent to a material de-

concentration of nearly 22,700 times, and not of at least

50,000, as Hahnemann intended.

(8, 4, 5)

Martinez

(15)

established that globules should be

used in such a way that 500 be soak in one drop of

dynamization, without considering the size of the

globules. In truth, the standards are the mass of the

globules and their complete humidification, not their

number. Hahnemann stated the following:

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 56

ŖA globule made of lactose and starch, of

indeterminate dimensions, but with average dimensions

such that 100 weight 1 grain, Řwill carry with themř a

fraction of less than 1/500 of a drop of alcohol. Thus,

this globule will offer a dilution higher than 1/500 when

well humidified with such a fraction of a drop of a

determined potency, to be used for the preparation of

the next potency.ŗ

(10)

Probably due to the fact that the 6th edition of the

Organon was published almost 100 years after

Hahnemannřs death, it is easy to believe that its

publication generated doubts in its veracity. During

several years this fact reduced its acceptance. The

globules also offer supply problems, with the

appropriate quality. The largest difficulty refers to the

grinding of fresh substances. If we add the fact that that

plant and animal material be used in their habitat, this

limits most homeopathic manufacturers from preparing

potencies of fifty-milesimals with an ideal quality.

The differences demonstrated lead to the following

probable clinical consequences:

• Non grinding or incomplete grinding, or done during

insufficient time, will result in a probable loss of

medicinal potency, in relation to the same product, if it

were grinded according to Hahnemannřs guidelines.

This statement is valid for centesimal and for fifty-

milesimal potencies.

• The technical uniformity as determined by

Hahnemann is also broken when the norms related to

intensity or homogeneity of grinding are not respected.

• Many (100) vigorous sucussions (when a factor of

dilution of 100:1 is used) can result in too violent

medicines, with possible dangers to human life, when

one of these medicines, correctly selected, is

administered to weak or excessively sensitive patients,

according to Hahnemann

(11, 12)

.

• There is a registry of the use of globules of larger mass

and size than the Hahnemannian standard. This fact

should lead to an increased quantity of dynamization to

be transferred to the preparation of the next potency, or,

a reduced material de-concentration (dilution). The

larger the used globule, the smaller the dilution, as the

globule needs to be saturated with the dynamization

during its impregnation. As a result, medicines should

be less potent, and with a more violent action, leading to

a higher frequency of aggravations. The use of non

standardized globules will impede the comparative

analysis of results.

Conclusions

With the review of a similar work published in

1992 it was possible to observe that the propositions of

Hahnemann for the preparation of homeopathic

medicines are still integrally followed. There are

pharmacotechnical differences between the proposals of

Hahnemann and a large part of various pharmacopeias

and textbooks, especially in the pharmaco-technical

description of grinding, use of fresh material and

number of sucussions, for centesimals. For fifty-

milesimals, beyond the topics mentioned, there are

differences in the size of globules and in the intensity of

sucussions. Medicines prepared in various manners

receive the same denomination, even when their

effectiveness is probably different.

In regard to possible consequences of differences in

the preparation of medicines on their effectiveness, it

can be assumed that these are less diluted, and thus less

potent, with a more violent action, leading to a higher

frequency of aggravations.

Once we accept that it is necessary to follow the

indications established by Hahnemann for the

preparation of homeopathic medicine, emphatically

spreading his guidelines, we think that we are

collaborating with the standardization of dynamization

techniques, and that, consequently, to the effectiveness

of homeopathic medicines.

Finally, more effective homeopathic medicines can

bring superior therapeutic results, to the benefit of

consumers and patients of homeopathic therapies, as

well as a result of research and comparisons of methods,

scales, and clinical experiences.

Recommendations

As there are divergences between various authors

after Hahnemann, we suggest that before we create

modifications, a serious effort to review all critical

aspects of the Hahnemannian method be addressed. This

should also include the adequate following of his

guidelines, given the relevance of the teachings of the

author who regulated the therapeutic application of the

Law of Similarity, as well as the 40 years of

experimental development using homeopathic

dynamizations.

We wish to thank the financial and bibliographic

support of HNCristiano; and LMHI (Dr. Sandra Chase)

for the HPUS 9th edition.

========================================

6. Making Hahnemannřs ŘOrganonř: a Modern

Textbook

SHEPPERD Joel (AJHM. 102, 3/2009)

Introduction: The closing sentence for an article

published in Homeopathic Links says, ŖIt is

discouraging to me that students are no longer taught

the original Homœopathy with accuracy and depth in

many existing schools, and that they are no longer

making the effort to master the original teachings before

trying to enrich it.ŗ(1) Now instead of wishing that the

Organon be taught in detail, it is happening.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 57

The National University of Health Sciences in

Lombard, Illinois, includes a full naturopathic medical

school curriculum successfully on the official

accreditation track. The required courses include

Homœopathy. The first of four lecture classes

introduces homœopathy in 15 hours. I teach

Homœopathy 2, which is Hahnemannřs Organon, in 60

hours. Homœopathy 3 includes the repertory, case

taking and polychrests in 60 hours of classroom work.

Homœopathy 4 teaches more Materia Medica for 60

hours.

The naturopathic medical school is under the

direction of Fraser SMITH, ND. I thank him for his

vision to teach the original Homœopathy.

Hahnemannřs ŘOrganonř as Textbook

After reviewing most of the books that teach

Homœopathy, I find that the Organon of Medicine by

HAHNEMANN remains the most concise and carefully

written text on the principles and practice of

Homœopathy; however, many students new to

Homœopathy find the Organon difficult to read.

The modern reader encounters several obstacles

when first trying to read the Organon. There is no

obvious beginning and ending to each subject. No

chapters divide the material. It is difficult to

differentiate major points from minor points in the

original Aphorism style. Translation from a different

language and a different two hundred-year old culture

makes some of the teachings obscure. For instance,

how does the new student know that §70 is a summary

of all the preceding paragraphs and §71 delineates the

content of the rest of book?

A New Format for the ŘOrganonř

A new format addresses some of the difficulties in

studying the Organon. The experienced reader of the

Organon divides the text into sections or units and

assigns titles to each part. It may be of academic

interest to memorize what each Aphorism says by the

number, but it is of no practical value to a new student.

The goal is to understand the principles of

Homœopathy, not to memorize quotes. For this reason

the Aphorism numbers are de-emphasized. Instead, a

bullet point arrangement is used. Major points in each

unit are listed first. Further descriptive points are listed

under the major point. For example, Unit 12 is named,

ŖIntermittent Diseases/Alternating Diseases - §231-

244.ŗ One of the major points of this section of the

Organon is written as follows:

Each epidemic of intermittent fever has a specific

remedy common to every sick individual - §239 Ŕ 241.

That remedy is found according to the totality of

symptoms common to all the patients.

Every medicineřs pure action produces a particular

fever different from all other fevers, even intermittent

fever with its alternating states.

There is homœopathic help for the numerous

natural intermittent fevers in the large realm of

medicines.

The remedy helps those who were in fairly good

health before the epidemic (i.e., those who were not

chronically sick with developed psora)

New translations are made when it seems

necessary. When possible, shorter sentences are used for

the modern attention span. Every generation must

retranslate the Organon because words change meaning

over time; the cultural norms change and real scientific

knowledge changes.

A modern format and a modern translation is not

enough, however. The teacher still has certain

unavoidable responsibilities. In the above example, the

teacher must remind the class of Hahnemannřs specific

definition of Ŗepidemicŗ in §73; he must compare the

term Ŗintermittent feverŗ to Ŗmarsh feverŗ and the

modern category called Ŗmalaria.ŗ He must point out

that HAHNEMANN never uses the term Ŗgenus

epidemicus,ŗ but says Ŗspecific remedyŗ in this

Aphorism as well as in §100-103 where he introduces

the collective disease. The teacher must clarify that

Ŗmoderate numberŗ refers to around 100, and he must

especially point out the last sentence as a modern

warning to those homœopaths who believe that

Homœopathy will provide a panacea for the next

pandemic: the specific remedy for a serious epidemic

will help many, but not cure because of the prevalence

of chronic disease and general low level of health in the

population.

The Organon in modern textbook form is not a

condensed or shortened version. No teaching by

HAHNEMANN is left out. It provides maps of the

Organon Aphorisms to show overall structure (see Map

A). It includes an outline for each section of the

Organon (see Table 1), provides a list of key words to

define in context; discourages rote memorization and,

instead, forms an answer based on the context of the

Aphorism where the word is used. For example, in

allopathic medicine, Ŗsymptomŗ has devolved into a

specialized meaning: descriptions of disease that are

subjective. HAHNEMANN uses the word Ŗsymptomsŗ

interchangeably with the word Ŗsignsŗ to include all

subjective and objective phenomena. (2)

A textbook of the Organon also includes additional

quotes from HAHNEMANN taken from his other

written works. Each unit lists self-examination

questions to encourage class participation. A summary

in slide format ends each unit. When a student receives

only a short list of principles summarizing

Homœopathy, it is not enough. The students relish the

chance to understand Hahnemannřs observations and

reasoning step by step, and are motivated to incorporate

this methodology into their developing worldview of the

many systems of medical treatment.

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 58

Translation Problems

There is an Italian saying, Ŗtraduttore, traditoreŗ

Ŕ the translator is a traitor. Consulting eight English

translations of Hahnemannřs Organon and comparing

them to two German editions reveals several problems

of interpretation. The title of the book is a good

example. Organon der Heilkunst (3) is variously

called Organon of the Art of Healing (4), Organon of

Medicine(5), Organon of the Medical Art (6),

MapA

Organon of the Healing Art (7). What title conveys

Hahnemannřs intent for todayřs American Culture?

ŖHeilŗ means both Ŗcureŗ and Ŗhealŗ in German. The

word ŖCurŗ that HAHNEMANN occasionally uses, as

in §206, is not a German word. Currently, in American

usage, curing and healing no longer mean the same

thing. ŖExperts cure, but people heal each other … I

can heal with my humanity things that I can never cure

with my science.ŗ (8) The word ŖKunstŗ refers to Ŗart.ŗ

In an English dictionary, there are two pertinent

meanings for Ŗart.ŗ One meaning is, Ŗa work of

imagination or imitation.ŗ The major meaning is Ŗa

skill mastered as result of practice.ŗ (9) If Homœopathy

is called an art these days, it gives permission for

anyone to fabricate anything they wish from their

imagination. If we use the word Ŗmedicine,ŗ then we

are confused with allopathy. Should we call

Hahnemannřs book ŖOrganon of Skillful Curing?ŗ

If we donřt even agree on the title of the book, then

the more complex content of the text is bound to

generate irresolvable diversity. Why does the Kunzli

edition translate ŖKrutz-Siechtumŗ in §206 as Ŗscabies

diseaseŗ instead of Ŗitch disease?ŗ (10)

HAHNEMANN certainly included much more than one

mite in the psoric process. Why does the OřReilly

edition translate ŖSchlusseŗ as Ŗdeductionsŗ instead of

Ŗconclusions?ŗ (1) HAHNEMANN does not allow

theories and deductions in the Organon. See §1a. His

conclusions are based on observations, experiments and

experience. How is ŖGleichgewichtŗ in §289

translated? Kunzli says Ŗequally,ŗ (12) thereby passing

up one of HAHNEMANNřs major definitions of health.

§1-§81

Definitions, Axioms &Principles

§5-§18

The Life Force in Health and

Disease

§35-§42

Dissimilar Disease, Complex

Disease

§62-§69

Initial Action, Counteraction

§19-§27

What Medicines Do

§43-§51

Similar Disease

§72-§81

Acute & Chronic, Disease

& Miasms

§1-§4

What Doctors Do and

Know

§28-§34

How Homoeopathy Works

§52-§61

Allopathy, Antipathy,

Isopathy, Homoeopathy

§70

Summary of Aphorisms 1-

69

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 59

The German dictionary offers Ŗbalance, equilibrium,

equipoise.ŗ (13) OřReilly leaps to a newer word

Ŗhomeostasis.ŗ(14) This so-called newer word

borrower from mechanistic physiology is out-dated. A

more modern term is Ŗhomeo-dynamics.ŗ(15) In such

detail does the interpreter of HAHNEMANN get

involved. The new student has no way of judging

which teacher is more useful, more practical until she

actually treats the sick and sees the outcomes.

Dissimilar Disease Interaction

KINDS

POSSIBILITIES

RESULTS

REFERENCE

Two Natural

Dissimilar Disease

If the older is stronger

It repels the newer

§36

If the older and newer are

stronger

The newer is kept away

§36

If the newer is stronger

The older is suspended,

then reappears

§38

If the older and newer join

Complex

§40

One Natural, One

Medicinal Dissimilar

Disease

If the medicinal disease is

mild

Then older nature disease

is uncured

§37

If the medicinal disease is

stronger

A new disease begins

§37

It suspends the older

natural disease for a time,

but no cure

§39

§41

Or a complicated disease

made of old and medicinal

disease

Table:1

The Worst Error in the English ŘOrganonř

As in most books, there are misspellings and typing

errors. The error in DUDGEON, however, is an error of

content. The last phrase of §70 says, Ŗwhen to an old

disease there is added a new one similar to the first,

whereby the old one is rapidly and forever annihilated

and cured.ŗ(16) The emphasis is added. Boerickeřs

translation of the sixth edition carries over this

error.(17) Kunzliřs 1982 translation does not have this

error. This implies that American homœopaths who did

not speak German lived with this incorrect teaching for

80 years. I have, so far, not seen it mentioned in the

literature. Did they not really study the Organon? The

Wesselhoeft translation of 1875 is rather ambiguous:

ŖWhen a new and similar disease is added to the older

one, this is permanently extinguished and cured.ŗ(18)

The English translation of 1833 that Heringřs group

used says, Ŗby adding to an existing disease a new one

that resembles it, he cures it promptly and

effectually.ŗ(19) Emphasis added to §LMVI. On the

final exam given to the students in the class on the

Organon, almost all of them recognize the error and

correctly restate it.

Why Teach the ŘOrganonř

The reasoning may go like this: It is an old,

outdated book. For instance, they do not teach the law

of gravity using Newtonřs original manuscripts. Much

has been discovered since then. However, like

Newtonřs laws, the law of Homœopathy is not out of

date; it is still the truth. It is the presentation to the

student that changes according to the needs of the time.

Before any practitioner can truly advance and

enrich Homœopathy, she must completely master the

pure principles and methodology. Without real

experience based on the consistent application of the

authentic laws of Homœopathy, no true advancement

takes place. Witness the short cuts and easier methods

of homœopathy promoted by teachers in much of the

world today that leads to the deterioration of applied

Homœopathy.

If there were another reliable textbook of all of

Hahnemannřs teachings, I would use it. No other

textbook goes through the careful reasoning of

HAHNEMANN. Instead, other authors summarize or

explain the main points. A short list mentioning the

conclusions of Homœopathy is not enough to convince

a student of the importance of the Law of Similars.

Instead, we must present all of the Organon, but

anew to meet the challenge of the times. Is the

following translation of §1-2 too new, too radical?

Make sick people well - §1, 2

The doctorřs highest and only calling

Termed curing

Act

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 60

Helpřheal

The highest ideal of curing

Cure rapidly, gently, permanently

Remove and annihilate the whole disease

In a short time

In the way

Most reliable

Least harmful

By clear intelligible principles

References

1. SHEPPERD J. Three ways of Homœopathy:

dissimilarities in the worldview of prescribers.

Homœopathic Links 2004; Vol. 17(1):9.

2. SHEPPERD j. Symptoms: Totality::Parts: Whole.

AJHM 2004; 97(2):121.

3. SCHMIDT JM, editor. Organon der Heilkunst, 6.

Auflage. Stuttgart: Hippokrates Verlag; 1999.

4. WESSELHOEFT C., trans. Organon of the art of

healing by Samuel Hahnemann. 5

th

American

Edition Translated from the 5

th

German Edition.

Philadelphia: Boericke & Tafel; 1875.

5. KUNZLI J., Naude A Pendleton P., trans. Organon

of medicine of Samuel HAHNEMANN. London:

Orion Books, Ltd.; 2003.

6. OřREILLY WB, editor. Organon of the medical art

by Samuel HAHNEMANN, MD. Redmond,

Washington: Birdcage Books; 1996.

7. FINCKE BM, trans. The Organon of the healing

art by Samuel HAHNEMANN from the 5

th

edition

transcribed by Maria Mackey. Tawa, New

Zealand: Great Auk Publishing; 2004.

8. REMEN RN. Recovering the soul of medicine.

Alternative therapies 2006; 12(3):88-9.

9. The new shorter Oxford English dictionary.

Oxford: Oxford University Press; 1993. Art;p.120.

10. KUNZLI, §206.

11. OřREILLY, §53.

12. KUNZLI, §289.

13. The new Casselřs German dictionary. New York:

Funk & Wagnalis; 1971. Gleichgewicht; p.201.

14. OřREILLY, §289.

15. SHEPPERD J. Chaos theory: implications for

Homœopathy. JAIH 1994; 87; 22-9.

16. DUDGEON RE, trans. Organon of medicine by

Samuel HAHNEMANN. Philadelphia: Boericke &

Tafel; 1901. P.93.

17. BOERICKE W, trans. Organon of medicine by

Samuel HAHNEMANN. Philadelphia: Boericke &

Tafel; 1935. §70.

18. WESSELHOEFT, p. 104.

19. DEVRIENT CH, trans. The homœopathic medical

doctrine or Organon of the healing art from the

German of S. HAHNEMANN. Dublin: W.F.

WAKEMAN; 1833. P.163.

========================================

7. Homeoprophylaxis for Infectious Contagious

Disease

BIRCH, Kate (AH. 15, 2009)

Despite the use of vaccinations, antibiotics and

other medications, infectious contagious diseases

continue to scourge the planet. Despite the ability to

reduce the incidence of acute disease with vaccinations,

chronic disease is on the rise. The continued use of

antibiotics or anti-parasiticals has lead to disease

resistant infectious strains and an increased toxicity

from the medications. Furthermore, there are some

contagious diseases with no known treatment or

prevention in western medicine.

Since the time of Samuel HAHNEMANN,

Homœopathy has effectively treated many epidemics,

demonstrating empirically its superiority over

conventional medicine in this area of public health.

However, public health programs in developed

countries do not choose Homœopathy as a viable

defensive approach against contagious diseases. Within

the homœopathic community there is also considerable

debate as to how mass homœoprophylaxis campaigns

would satisfy basic homœopathic principles. Moreover,

debate continues over whether this would constitute a

non-classical application of Homœopathy. Other

questions have arisen regarding factors such as lack of

homœopathic education of physicians, limited supply of

remedies, rapidity of epidemic disease contagion, and

confidence levels in prescribing. And how does a

government actually orchestrate a homœopathic

prevention program in a crisis situation?

The answers to these questions and more were

deliberated upon in December 2008 in Havana, Cuba.

There, an historical and inspiring event took place. The

Carlos J. Finlay Institute (a Cuban vaccine

manufacturer) under the guidance of its director-

general, Dr. Conception Campa Huergo, Dr. Gustavo

Bravo and others, hosted NOSODES 2008, an

International Meeting on Homœoprophylaxis,

Homœopathic Immunization and Nosodes against

Epidemics. I was honored to present a paper at this

conference, discussing how acute diseases can shape

societies, and the potential role of Homœopathy in

preventing epidemic disasters.

At this conference, speakers from twelve countries

considered such topics as: Childhood Disease

Prevention with Homœopathy; The Development and

Creation of Nosodes, Genus Epidemicus and

Homœopathic Remedy Complexes; and

Homœoprophylaxis in Chagas disease in Honduras.

Each presentation helped to build a shared vision of

the global application of Homœopathy to help prevent

and treat infectious disease. While many of the

programs discussed did not adhere strictly to classical

homœopathic principles, many of the results showed

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 61

that homœopathic remedies were more effective than

conventional medicine in preventing the diseases

studied. Furthermore, the Ministry of Health in Cuba

demonstrated what can be achieved with the application

of Homœopathy in emergency situations if

administrated by the national healthcare system.

Some of this information is available on the

internet. However, the bulk of the work presented by

the Cubans is awaiting publication in medical journals

before it is released to the general public. This, along

with editorial constraints, guided my selection of reports

I felt most crucial to the professional homœopathřs

knowledge. You will find these detailed below.

Homœopathy in Cuba

3

Homœopathy was first introduced to Havana in

1842 by Dr. Francisco de P. Escoper from Spain. The

journal, La Bandera de la Homœopatia en la Habana,

was first published in 1856. Between 1856 and 1889,

twelve Cubans graduated from Hahnemann Medical

College in Philadelphia and subsequently returned to

Cuba to practice Homœopathy. But then, Homœopathy

in Cuba all but vanished in the first decades of the

twentieth century as a result of American influences in

the medical sciences. In 1958, only four physicians in

Havana listed themselves as homœopaths. The most

frequently used homœopathic drugs at that time were

combinations of Humphreyřs remedies prescribed by

lay people. At the beginning of the Revolution (1959),

the government did not recognize Homœopathy as

scientific or effective.

In 1992, an epidemic of a post-chickenpox viral

neuralgia swept the island, affecting some 50,000

people. The Cuban government put out an international

call for medical assistance. Some homœopaths who

responded to the situation, determined the appropriate

homœopathic remedies, and the epidemic quickly

resolved.

This tremendously successful homœopathic

intervention, under the direction of Dr. Conception

Campa Huergo and the Cuban Society of Bioenergetic

and Natural Medicine, served as a catalyst for

incorporating Homœopathy into the Cuban National

Health System in 1992.

Since then, the Cuban Ministry of Public Health has

made great efforts toward establishing the validity of

Homœopathy as a diagnostioc medical system based on

evidence. The Ministry pursues homœopathic

investigations with the scientific rigor characteristic of

Cuban medicine.

Since 1997, Cuban homœopaths have been

responsible to the Vice Ministry of the Ministry of

Health known as Direction Nacional de Medicina

Natural y Tradicional. An Advisory Group of

Homœopaths (Grupo Asesor de Homeopatia) plans and

regulates the national programs with regards to

Homœopathy. The training for homœopaths is through

traditional medical schools with a postgraduate training

in CAM methods. Over 1,478 homœopaths have

graduated from these programs. The original professors

were Brazilian and Mexican. But nowadays the

academic homœopathic program is covered by Cuban

professors in the Cuban medical system.

For research and science, Homœopathy has a

section at the Sociedad Naturista y Bioenergetica which

is recognized by the Consejo Nacional de Sociedades

Cientificas. The continued development of

Homœopathy in Cuba is due to the achievements of

Cuban homœopaths with their research projects, their

ability to manage many health problems, their closer

relationship with patients, and because Homœopathy is

a much more affordable therapeutic method than

modern allopathy. Due to the economic sanctions by

the US blockade on Cuba, natural medicine is sought

after because of its affordability.

Over the last decade, several homœopathic

humanitarian aid organizations have contributed to the

growth and expansion of Homœopathy in Cuba. Since

2001, Homœopaths Without Borders (HWB) has made

two trips to educate and distribute supplies.

Homéopathes de terre sans frontiers (HTSF) of Quebec

has also made numerous trips to Cuba to assist in

providing continuing homœopathic education in

Homœopathy.

Leptospirosis in Cuba

5

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects

humans and animals. It is caused by bacteria of the

genus Leptospira. There are 3 different strains, 23

different serogroups of and over 200 serotypes of the

bacteria. Leptospira organisms have been found in

cattle, pigs, horses, dogs, rodents and wild animals.

Humans become infected through contact with water,

food or soil containing urine from these infected

animals. This may happen by swallowing contaminated

food or water, or through direct contact, especially with

mucosal surfaces, such as the eyes or nose, or through

broken skin. Outbreaks of leptospirosis are usually

caused by exposure to water contaminated with the

urine of infected animals. The disease is not known to

spread from person to person.

The time between a personřs exposure to a

contaminated source and becoming sick is 2 days to 4

weeks. Illness usually begins abruptly with fever and

other symptoms. Leptospirosis may occur in two

phases. After the first phase, with fever, chills,

headache, muscle aches, vomiting, or diarrhea, the

patient may recover for a time but becomes ill again. If

a second phase occurs, it is more severe; the person may

suffer kidney or liver failure or meningitis. This phase is

also called Weilřs disease. In rare cases, death occurs.

Many of these symptoms can be mistaken for other

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 62

diseases. Leptospirosis is confirmed by laboratory

testing of a blood or urine sample. The illness lasts

from a few days to 3 weeks or longer. Without

treatment, recovery may take several months.

Leptospirosis is conventionally treated with antibiotics,

such as Doxycycline or Penicillin.

The Cuban Health Ministry has been studying

incidence rates of Leptospirosis since 1981. They have

observed that incidence rates go up with increased

rainfall, and at times of flooding or natural disasters,

when public water sources may be contaminated. The

Finlay Institute developed a vaccine for Leptospirosis

but despite its use for the past 10 years, disease

incidence has remained the same.

In 2007, the Finlay Institute developed a Nosode,

called noso-Lep from 20 different strains of Leptospira

from sick people. Each strain was isolated and cultured

for viability. Each strain was potentized to the 29C

individually and then combined all together for the 30C.

Subsequent potencies were derived from this

combination. The remedy was then potentized to 199C

and 99,999C (to be made into 200C and 10M

respectively upon final delivery).

9

In the fall of 2007, Cuba was hit with two

hurricanes, Dean and Felix. As with most hurricanes

that pass over Cuba, most of the damage occurred in the

eastern provinces. The Finlay Institute decided to

introduce the nosode into the population in the

provinces of Las Tunas and Holqiun for preventative

measures. Considering the possible impact of the

hurricanes on peopleřs emotional states it was decided

to also include two Bach flower remedies with the

administration of the remedy. In early fall of 2007 in

the midst of the hurricane impact, the 199C potency was

delivered to local health clinics. Doctors were

instructed to combine in one liter of water the 199C

potency of nosoLep and the Bach flower essences.

Patients received one drop of the mixture orally; this

treatment was then repeated seven days later. The

process was repeated with the 99,999C potency in 2008

prior to the two hurricanes, Gustav and Ike, that

devastated the region in September. In 2007, 99.1

percent of the population in these provinces was given

the nosode. At the end of a 40 week study period there

were found to be only 379 suspected cases and 49

confirmed cases of Leptospirosis (numbers are lower

than expected for the amount of rainfall). When the

procedure was repeated in 2008 with the 10M, 98.1% of

the population received the nosode and there were 251

cases suspected, with only 2 confirmed cases.

5

From the following chart you can determine that

even though the incidence of Leptospirosis was

expected to increase in 2007 and 2008, the incidence of

disease in the two provinces of Las Tunas and Holguin,

where the nosode had been administered, dropped to

nearly 0 cases. In comparison you can see that in the

other provinces in the same vicinity where the nosode

was not used, disease incidence in 2007 and 2008

increased, as predicted.

5

The subsequent chart is a comparison between

doses of vaccine and nosode administered, included the

time required to make the respective form of

prophylaxis.

In order to appreciate the above statistics, we need

to convert the value of the Cuban peso. Eight Cuban

pesos (CUP) equal twenty USA pennies. The cost of

the production, storage and administration of the

vaccine runs about $3,876,126 Cuban pesos (CUP)

whereas the relative cost of the nosode from

manufacturing to application is $22,207 CUP. Whereas

it took hundreds of people one year to create 2,000,000

doses of the vaccine, it took only 10-15 people seven

days to create 5,000,000 doses of the 200C potency of

nosoLep.

5

The 10M took a week longer to prepare in

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 63

2008. These figures demonstrate that during epidemics

and natural disasters, when the disease entity may be

unknown until the last minute, Homœopathy proves to

be a more cost effective and timely method of disease

prevention. This is particularly true in countries with

economic challenges that limit access to raw materials,

glass vials, needles, cold storage and all the other

trappings of the vaccine protocol. Sugar in Cuba is

cheap: 8 CUP/pound. Farmers or families can afford to

arrive at the place of nosode administration with a cup

of sugar, have it anointed with the remedy, and then

return to their mountain village or farm to treat the

local population at minimal cost and with great

efficacy.

10

The results of this study, as well as the work the

Cubans have done stopping Hepatitis A outbreaks in

schools with Phosphorus, and the treatment of

hemorrhagic viral conjunctivitis with Euphrasia will

soon be published and presented to the international

community. Cubařs health care system has long been

extolled as a model for the developing world by the

World Health Organization, particularly in the area of

primary and preventive care. We can only hope that

international acceptance of Homœopathy for the

treatment and prevention of infectious disease will soon

follow.

Homéopathes de Terre sans Frontières

Translated as ŖHomeopaths of Earth Without

Borders,ŗ HTSF has headquarters in Quebec, Canada.

Under the presidency of Martine Jourde, this

organization has been working in Central America for

humanitarian purposes. Out of the work Martine had

previously done in the Middle East and Africa in the

early 1980řs, Martine developed the Clover Project: first

line homœopathic care and training, autonomy for

remedies, and exchange and research for sustainable

development of community health programs.

The goals are to create self-reliance in local

communities by developing treatment protocols for

particular diseases, training homœopaths locally to

administer the projects, making remedies from local

sources, and dispensing remedies to the local

population.

When engaging a community, the organization

starts by training the mothers for self-care and persuades

the government to endorse the programs. Due to the

contributing factors of illiteracy, lack of

telecommunication and transportation between villages,

and lack any of other forms of conventional medicine,

the protocols for treatment have to be easy to use with

people who have minimal education. Because many

acute diseases have a sudden onset and rapidly become

critical, combination remedies are necessary in order to

gain time. Accordingly, HTSF has developed a kit of

12 combination remedies to address a variety of acute

situations. These first line homœopathic remedy

complexes had been developed over the years from

experiences in working with stock animals and then

further with people. Each complex is designed to

address different phases and etiologies of acute disease.

HTSF then trains two people per village in a two day

course to get familiar with the remedies, what is in

them, and their indications for use. In different

diseases, more than one combination remedy may be

indicated, depending on the presenting condition. many

of the combination remedies have nosodes in them, in

addition to the common homœopathic remedies

indicated for that particular condition (eg. Carbo-v.,

China, Cupr. etc. for the diarrhea remedy). HTSF has

developed protocols for the treatment of rotavirus,

dengue fever, hemorrhagic dengue, bacterial infections,

parasitical diseases and viral infections.

The remedies were originally prepared by a

homœopathic pharmacy in Quebec, Canada, called Labo

Solidago for use in animals, but were later adapted to

human use by Homeodel (a homeopathic Pharmacy also

based in Quebec). When HTSF began the Chagas

project and started research in Honduras (as described

below), funding was obtained partly from CIDA

(Canadian International Development Agency) and

CSN (Confédération des Syndicats Nationaux,).

Scientific collaboration from CNRP-Mc Gill (Canadařs

National Reference Center on Parasitism) was called

upon to isolate the strains of Trypanosoma Cruzi for

the creation of two homœopathic nosodes for Chagas.

These were then passed on to Homœodel, which

prepared the homœopathic dilutions. HTSF can be

found at

http://www.homeopathesdeterresansfrontieres.ca/.

Chagas Disease in Honduras

8

Chagas disease is a tropical parasitical disease

caused by the flagellate protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi.

T. cruzi is commonly transmitted to humans and other

mammals by an insect vector: blood sucking assassin

bugs. As the bug sucks the blood of the host, it may

pass stools on the skin. Scratching and breaking the

surface of the skin introduces the contaminated stools

into the body where the disease can take hold. The

disease may also be spread through blood transfusions

and organ transplants, ingestion of food contaminated

with the parasites, bodily secretions such as semen and

motherřs milk, and placental transmission from a

mother to her fetus. Once acquired, the infection is

lifelong.

Chagas disease occurs exclusively in the Americas,

particularly in poor, rural areas of Mexico, Central

America and South America. It is estimated that as

many as 8 to 11 million people have Chagas disease.

Most victims do not know they are infected. Large-

scale population movements from rural to urban areas of

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 64

Latin America and to other regions of the world have

increased the geographic distribution of Chagas disease.

Control strategies have mostly focused on eliminating

the vector and preventing transmission from other

sources such as contaminated food.

The symptoms of Chagas disease vary over the

course of an infection. In the early, acute stage, which

happens in only 30 percent of those infected, the

symptoms are mild and usually produce no more than

local swelling at the site of infection. Then there is a

silent phase where the disease can remain dormant for

many years. After a trauma or other form of stress, the

disease wakes up and progresses. Over many years,

serious lesional chronic symptoms begin to appear, such

as heart disease and malformation of the intestines. If

untreated, the chronic disease is often fatal. Current

drug treatments are generally unsatisfactory, and

available medications, particularly those used to treat

the chronic stage of the disease, are highly toxic and

often ineffective.

HTSF treatment protocols of Chagas employ

several combination remedies depending on the stage of

development of the disease. HTSF-Leuco (Ceonanthus,

Conium, Natrum muriaticum and Psorinum) HTSF-

parasite, HTSF-Sep (septic) and HTSF-Car are used

along with TC1, TC2 which are nosodes prepared from

the T.cruzi protozoa.

In Central America HTSF has also had much

success with the use of HTSF-Viral (Acon., Ars., Eup-

p., Nat-m., Phos-ac., Rhus-tox) in viral conditions;

HSTF-Intox for toxic or septic conditions (Ars.,

Camph., Phos., Verat., Colibactirium, Parathyroidinum,

and Pyrogenium). Cases of rotavirus respond well to

the diarrhea combination. Dengue fever is usually

responsive to Eupatorium perfoliatum given in

combination with HTSF-Viral. In cases of hemorrhagic

dengue, the addition of HTSF-Mam1 (Merc., Lach.,

Sec., Anthrax., Pyrog., Streptococcinum) is used to

prevent further bleeding and autointoxication from

streptococcus infection.

Abha Light Foundation (ALF) in Kenya

6

Didi (Sister) Ananda Ruchira (Barbara Lynne) has

been the driving force behind the work of the Abha

Light Foundation (ALF) since 1998. Didi has been a

yogic nun of Ananda Marga for 30 years, and a

homœopath since 1997. The main goal of ALF is to

support the health of the people through natural and

affordable medicine as a method of managing

HIV/AIDS, TB, and Malaria in Kenya and to study and

promote appropriate African indigenous medicinal and

herbal knowledge.

Since 1998, ALF has treated thousands of patients

through the mobile clinics in the Nairobi slums and at

various villages throughout Kenya. By the year 2000,

there was enough public support and confidence to open

the first clinic at Kariobangi North slum. Now there are

18 clinics and 25 mobile clinics throughout Kenya and

Tanzania. ALF, in Kenya since 2001, has developed

training programs in alternative medicine and schools of

Homœopathy. The website is http://www.abhalight.org.

Malaria in Kenya

6

350-500 million cases of Malaria occur worldwide

annually with approximately 40 percent of the world

population at risk for contracting the illness.

1

In many of

the slums and villages of Kenya, Malaria incidence is

very high. Many people suffer from chronic and

remitting fevers, with blood in the urine, pulmonary

edema, neurological deficits, severe anemia, rupturing

of the spleen, epilepsy and mental retardation. The

situation is compounded by lack of medicines, high cost

of medicines, drug resistance, and ailments from

suppression of symptoms from the medicines. As the

people cannot afford to take the medicines long enough

to actually control the symptoms, they take the medicine

only long enough for the symptoms to abate and then, in

a few weeks, the symptoms recur.

The ALF treatment protocol looks at three major

areas of concern: symptoms in individuals with

suppressed Malaria, the side-effects of the anti-malarial

drugs, and the need for continued prophylaxis and

protection. In order to address these three conditions

ALF has developed the following treatment protocol

called the Malaria X 3-step which treats the side-effects

of the drugs given, removes the parasite from chronic

sufferers and protects against re-infection.

6

MalariaX 3-step

6

1. Neem 2X potency. Neem or Azadirachta indica

is a large evergreen tree local to eastern Africa and has

strong health maintaining properties. It has been used

as a tonic and astringent that promotes wound healing.

Neemřs traditional use is based on its detoxifying

benefits that help maintain healthy circulatory,

digestive, respiratory and urinary systems. It is used for

external applications in skin diseases. Neem extracts

also posses anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial and anti-viral

properties. It can also act as birth control as it sterilizes

sperm.

This 2x potency is derived from the bark of the tree

and prepared in a homœopathic alcohol-based tincture.

It helps in cases of Malaria, as it strengthens the liver,

pancreas and spleen, purifies the blood and is good for

many skin ailments.

Neem is indicated for clearing out cases of chronic

malaria. Patients are directed to take 5 drops a day for

15-21 days to kill the malaria plasmoidia by sterilizing

them so they cannot replicate.

2. China sulphuricum 30C. This is to reduce all of

the side effects of prolonged, continued and/or repetitive

use of Quinine based medicines. Repetitive use of these

drugs suppresses the symptoms of malaria and causes its

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 65

own miasmatic state which looks much like chronic

malaria. These drugs can also cause other symptoms

such as catalepsy or epilepsy. A dose of China sulph

30C is repeated for five days one week after

commencing the Neem 2X drops.

3. Malaria X. This is a combination remedy of

Natrum muriaticum, China officinalis, Arsenicum

album, Eupatorium purpureum and Malaria nosode

(made from a combination of all four species of malaria

plasmodia). Directions are to begin after the China

sulph series. The protocol requires one dose per day of

three pellets for three days, then one dose per week for

two weeks, and then repetition as needed to avoid

recurrence. This remedy may be taken continually once

a week or once a month for continued prevention.

Homeoprophylaxis-fifteen year clinical study Issac Golden

Figure 1 The Current Homeoprophylaxis Program, and Status sheet

STATUS SHEET

Name is being protected

Recommended

Age given

Remedy

Potency

Remedy

Label

Date of

Admin

Administered by

1 months

Pertussin

200

2 months

Pertussin

200, M, 10M

4 months

Lathyrus sativus

200

5 months

Lathyrus sativus

200, M, 10M

6 months

Haemophilus

M

7 months

Haemophilus

M,M,M

9 months

Diphtherinum

200

10 months

Diphtherinum

200, 200, 200

11 months

Tetanus Toxin

200

12 months

Tetanus Toxin

200, M, 10M

13 months

Pertussin

200, M, 10M

14 months

Morbillinum

200

15 months

Morbillinum

200, M, 10M

16 months

Lathyrus sativus

200, M, 10M

17 months

Haemophilus

200, M, 10M

19 months

Parotidinum

200

20 months

Parotidinum

200, M, 10M

22 months

Diphtherinum

200, M, 10M

24 months

Tetanus Toxin

200, M, 10M

26 months

Lathyrus sativus

200, M, 10M

28 months

Haemophilus

M, M, M

32 months

Pertussin

200, M, 10M

41 months

Tetanus Toxin

200, M, 10M

46 months

Haemophilus

M, M, M

50 months

Diphtherinum

200, M, 10M

54 months

Diphtherinum

200, M, 10M

56 months

Lathyrus sativus

200, M, 10M

60 months

Tetanus Toxin

200, M, 10M

Remedy-Disease Relationship: Pertussin- Whooping Cough; Tetanus Toxin- Tetanus; Lathyrus sativus- Polio;

Haemophilus-Hib Influenzae; Diphtherinum-Diphtheria; Parotidinum-Mumps; Morbillinum-Measles

According to this protocol, thousands of patients

have been treated for Malaria with no subsequent

relapses. Symptoms start to abate under the influence of

the Neem 2X; old symptoms relating to the chronic use

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 66

of the drugs are then cleared with the China sulph 30C,

Malaria X supports the whole system addressing the

individualřs response to the Malaria and preventing

future reinfection. At this point, no verifiable data has

been collected demonstrating the treatmentřs efficacy.

However, the reports of patients and practitioners

working with the Abha Light Foundation indicate their

positive outcomes.

Homœopathic Prophylaxis in Australia

3

Dr. Isaac Golden has been a homœopathic

practitioner in Australia since 1984. He is world

authority on homœoprophylaxis (HP), and has

undertaken the worldřs largest long-term study of

patients using such a program. In 2004 he completed a

PhD research program at Swinburne University,

Melbourne, studying HP and analyzing the data he

generated through his study. The results are published

in his eighth book, HomeoprophylaxisŕA Fifteen

Year Clinical Study: A Statistical Review of the

Efficacy and Safety of Long-Term

Homeoprophylaxis.

The purpose of this study was to determine the

efficacy of HP for disease prevention and also to

contrast HP with vaccination for ailments common in

children. Previous independent studies had

demonstrated that vaccinated children showed an

increase in the following conditions: Asthma, Eczema,

Ear/hearing conditions, allergies and behavioral issues.

Following is the Status Sheet of the HP program that

monitors an individualřs progress through the program.

The participants were then asked to complete

questionnaires annually to grade disease incidence vs.

exposure and to monitor incidences of the other

conditions listed above. Participants were also asked

what if any other vaccinations were used.

All HP

Hp Only

Golden

Not Golden

Golden

Not Golden

Number of the Respondent

59

100

25

47

HP only

42.4%

47.0%

Vaccination Also

33.9%

31.0%

General protection Also

44.1%

42%

Proportion with Asthma

5.1%

16.0%

0.0%

4.3%

Proportion with Eczema

17.0%

20.0%

4.0%

12.8%

Proportion with Ear/Hearing

15.3%

26.0%

8.0%

21.3%

Proportion with Allergies

23.7%

29.0%

16.0%

12.8%

Proportion with Behavioral issues

8.5%

12.0%

0.0%

6.4%

Proportion with Measles

6.8%

18.0%

0.0%

12.8%

Proportion with Whooping cough

10.2%

17.0%

0.0%

17.0%

Proportion with Mumps

1.7%

1.0%

0.0%

TABLE 24 Comparison of HP Use Program Supplied/Not supplied by Golden Ŕ Proportions (2)

Some patients also used HP programs supplied by other

practitioners. The following chart (Table 24) compares

the incidence of mumps, measles and whooping cough

with those that followed HP programs (HP only, as

below) and those that were vaccinated and had received

some degree of HP prevention (ALL HP). From the

data it is clear to see that those individuals who had

followed the HP program alone under Golden

experienced statistically better results, with fewer of the

common ailments developing and no incidence of

infectious disease. Those who, in addition to the HP

program, used vaccinations had more adverse events.

The HP recipients not under Golden also did much

better than the HP/vaccination recipients not under

Golden. This chart also demonstrates that there are

statistically greater incidences of other ailments in those

children who received some form of vaccination. What

this chart does not tell us is to what extent the HP

programs of other practitioners differs from Goldenřs,

which and how many other vaccinations were used in

those that had some vaccination, and what the exposure

rate to infectious disease was. The answers to these

questions are delineated in many of the other charts

present throughout his research.

4

To his surprise Golden also found that those

children who had received HP without constitutional

homœopathic treatment were healthier than those

children who had only received constitutional treatment.

This conclusion leads us to ponder the effects of

nosodes alone on the improvement of health and to

wonder about any preconceived notions as to the best

philosophical approach to apply homœopathic remedies

for disease prevention.

Dr. Jamie Alexander Mora was also present at the

conference, where he presented a similar finding from

his research with an equivalent HP program that has

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 67

been used in Columbia, South America. Analysis of

blood titers drawn at three years of age from children

who had received only homœopathic nosodes for

disease prevention showed antibody levels

demonstrating immunity to the diseases for which they

had received prophylactic remedies.

7

References:

Select presentations from the International Meeting

on Homœoprophylaxis, Homœopathic Immunization

and Nosodes Against Epidemics: NOSODES2008.

Dec. 10-12, 2008, Havana, Cuba. (listed in order of

presentation at the conference)

1) World Health Organization. Disease incidence

rates. www.who.int/en/.

2) CDC. Disease incidence rates. www.cdc.gov.

3) Cristia, Dr. Rafael Perez. Panorama of Sanitary

Regulations and Nosodes. General director of

regulatory agency for health protection. MINSAP,

Cuba.

4) Golden, Dr. Isaac. Homœoprophylaxis: Research

Demonstrating the Effectiveness and Safety.

Head of the school of holistic medicine, Endeavour

College of Natural Health, Australia.

5) Cruz, Dr. Raul. Homœoprophylaxis: Cuban

Experiences on Leptospirosis. With Dr.

Conception Campa, Dr. Luis Varela, Dr. Esperanza

Gilling, MCs. Rolando Fernandez, Tec. Barbara

Ordaz, Dr. Gustavo Bracho, Dr. Luis Garcia, Dr.

Jorge Menendez, Lic Natalia Marzoa, Dr. Ruben

Martinez. Finlay Institute, Cuba.

6) Lynne, Barbara. Malaria Prevention and

Treatment in Endemic area of Kenya.

AbhaLight foundation, Nairobi, Kenya.

7) Mora, Dr. Jamie Alexander. Program for

Homœopathic Prophylaxis; Experiences in

Columbia. Homœopaths Terra San frontier,

Canada.

8) Jourde, Martine. Nosodes, Genus Epidemicus

and complexes: Illustration of the Resources of

Homeoprophylaxis for Treatment of Dengue and

the Development of an Early Diagnostic Tool for

Chagas Disease in Honduras. President of

Homœopathes de Terre sans Frontieres, (HTSF),

and SPHQ, Quebec, Canada.

9) Fernandez, MCs. Rolando. Development and

Large Scale Production of nosoLep. Biotherapies

Laboratory, Finlay Institute. Cuba.

10) Gualardo, Dr. German. Cuba, Sugar and

Homeopathic Impregnation. Homœopathic

Medical Association of Baja California, Mexico.

========================================

8. LETTER TO THE EDITOR

ŖHomœopathy: Ex nihilo fit nihilŗ?

CHIRUMBOLO, S., & BELLAVITE, P.

(HOM. 99, 3/2010)

Dear Editor,

We recently came across an article by Prof. M.

Pandolfi in the European Journal of Internal Medicine.

1

This contribution reads like a letter to the editor but

appears as a Řspecial articleř, a type of article not

included on the journalřs editorial submission checklist.

It is not a scientific paper, since it does not report

methods or any results. It would have been more honest

to publish it as an editorial.

Some years ago we chanced upon Titus Lucretius

Carořs De Rerum Natura.

2

Lucretius (98-55 BC.) was a

Roman philosopher known for his naturalistic view.

We tend to agree with Pandolfi when he (wrongly)

quotes Lucretius as saying ex nihilo fit nihil, this

quotation (correctly exnihilo nihil fit) should have been

attributed to René Descartes in his Principia

Philosophiae. Lucretiusřs concept of nothingness was

not an Řemptyř non-being. He said Ŗnil igitur fiery de

nilo posse fatendumst semine quando opus est rebus

quo quaeque creatae aeris in teneras possint

proferrier aurasŗ (One must admit that nothing can

rise from nothingness, as things need a seed, from

which each thing, once generated, can spread out in the

light breath of air…)

2

, further on, he wondered about the

order of cosmos (neque forte deum nobis immense

potestas sit, vario motu quae candida sidera versit)

(and, by chance, isnřt that a great divine power turning

shining stars in their moving shows himself to all of

us?)

2

.

The concept of never ending creation leads to two

consequences: the eternity of being: ŖHaud igitur

penitus percent quaecumque videntur …ŗ (Hence,

whatever is visible will never dieř)

2

; and the Řhiddenř

reality of non-visible things Ŗquod nequent oculis

rerum primordial cerni accipe praeterea quae

corpora tute necessest confiteare esse in rebus nec

posse videriŗ (since primordial elements cannot be seen

by eyes, listen how many bodies you too have to

recognize which are in nature though they cannot be

seen).

2

And the concept of vacuum: ŖNec tamen

undique corporea stipata tenentur omnia natura;

namque est in rebus inane… Est igitur nimirum id

quod ratione sagaci quaerimus admixtum rebus,

quod inane vocamus…ŗ (But everything is not made

of tight compact matter, as it has vacuum within. What

we see with our intelligent minds for, it does exist

really, mixed with matter and it is called vacuum.)

2

Thus Lucretius could be considered a forerunner of

modern physics.

2, 3

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 68

Ancient philosophers, as proto-scientists, held

different views about natural world and many hard

questions still remain the same throughout the history of

human knowledge. Lucretius believed in indivisible

atoms, anassagora of Clazomene (5

th

century BC) in the

infinite subdivisibility of atoms. Who was right? In

1935 Einstein, Podolsky and Rosen questioned whether

quantum physics could depict reality or if physical

theory should be newly addressed. When we talk about

quantum physics we should not confound it with

physical reality and thus be much more cautious.

Lucretius replaced horror vacui with the immortality of

matter through its never ending transformation. So, in

quoting Lucretius, we admit that matter can contain

vacuum, but never Řnihilř. Modern physics has

dramatically changed this picture. We can replace

Descartes Ŗex nihilo nihil fitŗ with ex nihilo omnia if

we consider nothingness as quantum vacuum. Vacuum

and nothingness are non interchangeable words.

Nothingness is not present within matter. Quantum

vacuum is present, but it is able to produce photons

which can affect matter.

Pandolfi starts by misquoting Lucretius, then goes

on to quote Wilkinsonřs mocking article on

Homœopathy and quantum physics in the Annals of

Improbable Research-Newsletter.

4

Why does he not

report a genuine reference to quantum physics? Perhaps

Pandolfi has read Milgromřs work.

5-8

This may be

difficult to understand, due to our inability to

comprehend quantum physics, as pointed out by

Feynman. Can humans be entangled? Gisin et al.

wondered if entanglement could be seen by humans:

9

this strange question is speakable in physics, it is not

black magic. These issues should be faced in a

scientific debate, not mocked. There is evidence that

quantum phenomena are not limited to the sub-atomic

scale.

10-14

We do not know if clinical research in

Homœopathy fails due to Ŗthe collapse of wave

function of an entangled state patient-practitionerŗ.

This is a very difficult concept to understand.

15

Consciousness and wave function collapse are not

necessarily separate

16

and it would be preferable if this

topic was confronted with the genuine curiosity of

scientific research. But this is very difficult, if the

starting point is not serious reasoning. Why does

Pandolfi talk of nothingness? He discusses

Oscillococcinum but does he know what this

preparation Řreallyř contains? In quoting Descartes we

suspect that he means to imply that all homœopathic

remedies contain Řnothingnessř; is that certain? What

would Lucretius have made of that? How should we

define this entity within matter which Pandolfi calls

Řnothingnessř? This is an interesting issue for

condensed matter physics. But Pandolfi prefers to joke,

especially when in conclusion he speaks of statistics,

forgetting, perhaps, how many incongruent P values are

reported in prestigious medical papers.

17

References

1. Pandolfi M. Homœopathy: exnihilo fit nihil. Eur J

Intern Med 2010, 21:147.

2. Lucretius TC. De rerum natura. In: Conte GB,

editor. Milan, Italy: RCS Publisher, 1990. L.

Canali trad.

3. Capra F. The Tao of Physics: An Exploration of

the Parallels between Modern Physics and Eastern

Mysticism. Berkeley, CA (USA): Shambala

Publications, 1975.

4. Wilkinson MFH. Towards a quantum mechanical

interpretation of Homœopathy. Ann Improb Res

Newsletter (MINI AIR) 1999; 3: 1-3.

5. Milgrom L., Patient-Practitioner-Remedy (PPR)

entanglement: part 1. A qualitative, non local

metaphor for Homœopathy based on quantum

theory. Homp 2002: 91: 239-248.

6. Milgrom LR. Conspicuous by its absence: the

memory of water, macro-entanglement and the

possibility of Homœopathy. Homp 2007; 96: 209-

219.

7. Milgrom LR. A new geometrical description of

entanglement and the curative homœopathic

process. J Altern Complement Med 2008 Apr;

14(3): 329-339.

8. Milgrom LR. The eternal closure of the biased

mind? The clinical and scientific relevance of

biophysics, infinitesimal dilutions, and the memory

of water. J Altern Complement Med 2009 Dec;

15 (12): 1255-1257.

9. Brunner N, Branciard C, Gisin N. Can one see

entanglement? arXiv:0802. 0472v2 2008; Nov 13,

2008.

10. Hameroff SR. A new theory of the origin of cancer:

quantum coherent entanglement, centrioles, mitosis,

and differentiation. Biosystems 2004 Nov;77(1-3):

119-136.

11. Mesquita MV, Vasconcellos AR, Luzzi R,

Mascarenhas S. Large-scale quantum effects in

biological systems. Int J Quantum Chem 2005;

102: 1116-1130.

12. Mavromatos NE, Mershin A, Nanopoulos DV.

QED-cavity model of microtubules implies

dissipationless energy transfer and biological

quantum teleportation. arXiv: quant-ph/0204021vl

2002; Apr 4, 2002.

13. Steele RH. Harmonic oscillators: the quantization

of simple systems in the old quantum theory and

their functional roles in biology. Mol Cell

Biochem 2008 Mar; 310(1-2): 19-42.

14. Frolich H. Quantum mechanical concepts in

biology. In: Proceedings of the first international

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 69

conference on theoretical physics and biology,

Versailles, 1967. Amsterdam: North Holland,

1969, p. 13-22.

15. Teixeira MZ, Guedes CH, Barreto PV, Martins

MA. The placebo effect and Homœopathy. Homp

2010 Apr; 99(2):119-129.

16. Thaheld F. Does consciousness really collapse the

wave function? A possible objective biophysical

resolution of the measurement problem.

Biosystems 2005; 81: 113-124.

17. Garcia-Berthou E, Alcaraz C. Incongruence

between test statistics and P values in medical

papers. BMC Med Res Methodol 2004 May 28;

4: 13.

========================================

9. GUEST EDITORIAL: Do serial dilutions really

dilute?

IVES, J.A. JONAS, W.B. & FRYE, J.C.

(HOM. 99, 4/2010)

The article by Chikramane et al. ŘExtreme

Homœopathic Dilutions Retain Starting Materials: A

Nanoparticulate Perspectiveř, in this issue reports the

fascinating observation that high potency homœopathic

remedies made from specific metals, prepared at two

different commercial plants in India, contain measurable

amounts of the starting material, even at 200c.

1

We are

all familiar with the simple calculations showing that a

series of 1:99 dilutions done sequentially will produce a

significant dilution of the starting material in very short

order. Specifically, if the starting material is at one

molar concentration (6.023 x 10

23

atoms [or molecules)

per litre], then at about the 12

th

centesimal dilution

(12C) there should be no or very nearly no atoms (or

molecules) left of the starting material. At 200c the

likelihood of there being even one atom of the starting

material approaches zeroŕif the process of dilution

follows the normal assumptions. However, it seems

those with those assumptions, we go astray.

Chikramane et al. found that, contrary to our

arithmetic, there are nanogram quantities of the starting

material still present in these Řhigh potencyř remedies.

We encourage the reader to inspect this article critically

to appreciate the full gamut of the findings and

implications.

They offer a possible explanation for this finding.

The size and shape of the metal nanoparticles they

observe are consistent with the very high forces and

temperatures that would occur with putative

nanobubbles produced during succussion. From this

they hypothesize the formation of nanoparticleŕ

nanobubble complexes that would rapidly rise to the

surface of the mixture forming a monolayer, especially

at high dilutions. In this way a non-equal distribution of

starting material would result during any settling

between dilutions. When the top 1% of the solution is

used as starting material for the next dilution, as they

observed at one plant, and this process is repeated for

each Řdilutionř step, no dilution in fact occurs.

How these explanations might apply to remedies

made from organic starting materials will provoke still

further intriguing questions. We have previously shown

that there are ponderable contaminants with biological

implications present in homœopathic remedies, even at

30c.

2

Although we briefly considered testing for the

presence of compounds from the mother tinctures, at

these potencies, this was quickly lowered in our

research priority because of the apparent futility and

because we did not have the technologies available to

measure organic molecules (our choice in mother

tinctures). Chikramane et al. have now directly tested

for the presence of starting material and disproved the

tenet that nothing but the Řspiritř is left in high potency

homœopathic medicines.

One might expect a different outcome if the starting

material were an organic compound as much of the

chemistry described here would have very different

implications. In addition, there are several other

difficulties in determining the relevance of these

findings to Homœopathy. If nanocomplexes rise to the

top of a vial, many manufacturers discard this portion of

the solution. For example, the Korsakoff method of

remedy manufacture empties the vial and uses the

remaining solution from the walls and bottom (not top)

of the tube for the next dilution. Finally, even if the

persistence of small amounts of any substance were

proven, how they could elicit significant clinical

responses from the chemicals themselves would have to

be explained. We might expect clinical relevance if the

concentrations fall within the range of hormesis, which

these concentrations appear to be.

3

Simultaneously, the studyřs findings of wide

disparity between batches and between manufacturers in

the quantity of material identified at high potencies raise

new concerns. Is it variations in manufacturing

techniques and protocols with the resultant differences

in quantity of active moiety in the final remedy that lead

to some of the difficulties encountered in clinical

homœopathic research?

We do not know the details of these manufacturersř

processes or even which pharmacopoeia they employ.

As companies operating in India, do they use the Indian

pharmacopoeia or that of their original parent company

(e.g. Dr. Willmar Schwabe India (WSI) Private Limited,

the German homœopathic pharmacopoeia; SBL, India,

originally Boiron, the French homœopathic

pharmacopoeia)? The WHO Safety Report, using the

example of Aconitum, notes that the amount of mother

tincture in the 1DH dilution ranges from 10% in the

French pharmacopoeia to 20% in the German

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 70

pharmacopoeia to 100% in the US and Indian

pharmacopoeias with a resulting alkaloid content

ranging from 0.002% to 0.075%: a 38 fold difference.

4

At the very least, the findings in this study beg for

renewed efforts at harmonization between the

pharmacopoeias and greater specificity and

standardization in their descriptions of pharmaceutical

methodology.

The identification of nanogram amounts of the

starting minerals in 200c remedies is both astounding

and welcome. To quote Thomas Pynchon, ŖIf they can

get you asking the wrong questions, they donřt have

to worry about answersŗ.

5

The skeptics have gotten

the homœopathic world so busy trying to defend various

theories of water memory that we have overlooked the

possibility that some of the material somehow actually

persists in highly diluted homœopathic medicines. If

these findings are independently replicated, we can

perhaps turn to the more relevant questions of how a

remedy may interact with the individual organism based

on the Principle of Similars and, beyond a certain

threshold, how much the potency matters.

References

1. Chikramane PS, Suresh AK, Bellare JR, Kane SG.

Extreme homœopathic dilutions retain starting

materials: a nanoparticulate perspective.

Homœopathy 2010; 99: 231-242.

2. Ives JA, Moffett JR, Arun P, et al. Enzyme

stabilization by glass-derived silicates in glass-

exposed aqueous solutions. Homœopathy 2010;

99: 15-24.

3. Calabrese EJ, Jonas WB. Homœopathy: clarifying

its relationship to hormesis. Hum Exp Toxicol

2010; 531-536.

4. Safety issues in the preparation of homœopathic

medicines. Geneva: World Health Organization,

www.who.int/medicines/areas/traditional/Homœop

athy.pdf;2009.

5. Pynchon T. Gravityřs Rainbow: New York City:

The Viking Press, 1973.

========================================

10. 200 years Organon of Medicine Ŕ A comparative

review of its six editions (1810-1842)

SCHMIDT, J.M. (HOM. 99, 4/2010)

Introduction

This year, 2010, Homœopathy is once again said to

have reached its 200

th

anniversary. The truth is that

homœopaths have already celebrated Ř200 years of

Homœopathyř at least three times within the last 20

years. These correspond to important stages in the

foundation and development of Homœopathy by

Samuel HAHNEMANN (1755-1843). In 1990 the 200

th

anniversary was commemorated of Hahnemannřs

famous experiment on himself with Peruvian bark in

1790, later considered to be the Řdawnř of the

homœopathic idea.

1, 2

1996 marked 200 years since the

basic principles of Homœopathy were published by

HAHNEMANN for the first time, in his essay ŖOn a

new principleŗ. This included drug proving on healthy

humans and treatment according to Ŗsimilia

similibusŗ.

3,4

In 2007 the term Ŗhomœopathicŗ finally had its

200

th

birthday, having been introduced by

HAHNEMANN in 1807.

5

It was mainly German-

speaking people who celebrated this anniversary, as the

corresponding article has never been translated into

English.

The noun Ŗhomœopathyŗ was first used by

HAHNEMANN in 1810.

6

Also, the basic maxim of

Homœopathy Ŗsimilia similibus curenturŗ was first

published in its complete version in the Organon of

Rational Therapeutics.

7

Thus, in 1810, Homœopathy

acquired a basic textbook and a distinctive label,

constituting itself as a discrete entity. This first edition

of the Organon is widely known under the title

Organon of the Rational Art of Healing, as it was

under this title that it was introduced to the English

speaking world by CE Wheeler in 1913.

8

But this translation obscures the difference between

the German words ŖHeilkundeŗ (knowledge of healing)

and ŘHeilkunstŗ (art of healing). In Hahnemannřs day,

the professional dispute was exactly centred on this

issue, i.e. whether medicine can or should be considered

an art or a science/knowledge.

9

Consistent with modern

positions in the theory of medicine,

10, 11

in 1819

HAHNEMANN revised his initial emphasis on

rationality in medicine in favour of a broader concept of

medicine as an art rather than an applied science.

The fact that the title of the first edition of the

Organon, published in 1810, is Organon of Rational

Therapeutics, while all the subsequent editions bear the

title Organon of the Art of Healing, gives a first hint

that the development of Homœopathy cannot be

considered to have been complete in 1810. A

comparative examination of the different editions

discloses changes of concepts and theories in the

development of the Organon, rather than a continuity

of attitude and approach. The latter does, of course,

exist, but is more difficult to unravel.

Homœopaths who read the sixth and final edition,

may also get a sense of this problem, if they study it in

depth. Apparent contradictions arising from a critical

reading can often be resolved by demonstrating that

HAHNEMANN, when revising the Organon, was not

always totally consistent in eliminating old concepts and

substituting new ones.

12

Comparison of all six German editions is facilitated

by a literary tool called Organon Synopse. This is a

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 71

book in which the complete contents of all six editions

are printed, with corresponding phrases side by side,

enabling the reader to trace continuities and

discontinuities in the development of Hahnemannřs

thought.

13

So, although the Organon is often called

Řthe Bible of Homœopathyř, for many the basic

reference of Homœopathy has always been very

difficult to understand.

In order to shed new light on the content of the

Organon, let us take a step back to obtain a broader

perspective, from where we may be able to place it in a

historic and philosophic context.

Historical perspectives

From time immemorial Ŕ due to the precarious

condition of human existence Ŕ the motive to heal

people has been a perennial challenge, an

anthropological basic constant. It can be found in all

epochs of history and on all continents of the world.

This goal Ŕ whether inspired by compassion, worship,

curiosity, or convention Ŕ can be and has been purused

and achieved in very different ways. As the history of

medicine shows, concepts, terms, and theories of how to

cure people varied widely Ŕ depending on time, place,

intellectual climate, socio-economic, cultural, and

political circumstances.

14

Seen from a historianřs view,

for instance it was not by chance that Homœopathy

emerged in 18

th

and 19

th

century Germany. It would not

have fitted with Greek antiquity, Western middle ages,

traditional Chinese culture, or the like.

15

In the wake of major political, social, and economic

changes, such as the French Revolution, emancipation

of citizens, and early industrialization, and of

intellectual movements, such as enlightenment, German

Idealism and Romanticism, toward the turn of the 18

th

and 19

th

centuries a remarkable culture of critical

thinking evolved.

As if triggered by an ever-rising consciousness and

relevance of economic relations, not only scientists and

physicians, but even theologians and philosophers tried

to expand the realm of rationality within their fields.

The term Řratioř derives from the commercial rendering

of accounts, so Řrationalismř may be seen as the triumph

of money Ŕ as a form of thinking Ŕ over all realms of

life.

16

Immanuel KANT (1724-1804) claimed to have

elevated metaphysics to the rank of a true (rational)

science, and many physicians (as well as philosophers

and artists) were anxious to achieve the same for

medicine.

17

Against this background and within this context,

Hahnemannřs lifeřs work, the finding, foundation, and

development of Homœopathy, may be contemplated

and assessed: from his first vision of the principle of

similar in 1790, to his completion of the sixth edition of

the Organon in1842. Seen in this context, the first

edition looses some of its alleged status as an

outstanding landmark in the history of Homœopathy, let

alone a kind of holy scripture. It rather turns out to have

been one of several transitional stages in a busy literary

and medical career, extending over six decades, from

Hahnemannřs dissertation (1779)

18

to his manuscript of

the last edition of the Organon (1842).

19

Philosophical perspectives

Apart from taking into account the regional and

cultural circumstances, influences, and biases of his

time and contemporaries (a vast field for medical

historical research), it is important for a clear

understanding of Hahnemannřs work to consider

philosophical and epistemological problems, with which

any explorer of anything new and previously

undiscovered is confronted. It is a paradox of the

human condition, that language, logic, and concepts

allow humans to communicate their thoughts and

opinions to other fellow human beings, but at the same

time limit the content of what is communicable to

others.

As a rule, ordinary people are only able to perceive,

experience, and grasp those things for which they have a

sense, and also basic concept in their minds. For

instance, without having a concept of a chair we would

not able to recognize any chair in a room, since we

would not even know what to look for. Everything

alien to our senses and concepts, though it may be

sensed by bats, bees or eels, or spiritual or mystic

insights of saints, drops through the meshes of our

perception and understanding and will thus remain

unknown to us.

Given the case that somebody has discovered

something that is truly new and unheard of, be it by

chance, intuition, revelation, providence or the like Ŕ in

order to communicate this to his people, has no option

but to try to express it by means of existing language,

logic, and concepts. But were it possible to easily grasp

and communicate it by these means, it would have

probably been discovered long before. History contains

many examples of how philosophers, writers, and also

physicians had to challenge the boundaries of language,

or even create a fresh terminology for their new

approaches.

20

Unlike for example PARACELSUS (1493-1541),

who could develop his own world of concepts along

with his alchemical, astrological, and therapeutic

findings relatively undisturbed (most of his work was

published posthumously),

21

HAHNEMANN, living 300

years later, was more obliged to comply with the

conceptual standards and fashions of his time.

Although modern peer-review procedures did not

yet exist, to publish an article for instance in Hufelandřs

Journal or to find a publisher for a book on medicine,

certainly was not possible without talking the same

language as oneřs colleagues and sharing their scientific

interests. Empirical details could be reported at will, as

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 72

long as the intellectual framework was understandable

to readers. This is why HAHNEMANN used terms like

organism, life-force, life-principle, dynamic, potencies,

agencies, remedies, miasms, causes of disease, signs,

symptoms, etc., and why he never stopped working on

clarifying their relationship and meaning during his long

life of practicing and writing.

Had HAHNEMANN lived today, in order to obtain

access to a peer reviewed medical journal he would, like

everybody else, have to comply with writing in terms of

modern science, such as immunology, epigenetics,

cybernetics, etc. he would have probably used

progressive concepts such as complexity, semiotics,

systems theory, or salutogenesis.

In order to put the Organon of Rational

Therapeutics into the context of Hahnemannřs striving

for recognition by his contemporaries, let us now take a

closer look at the way he modified his presentation of,

and arguments for his cause over the course of more

than 50 years.

Behind ostensible shifts of perspective, emphasis,

and concepts, one can detect the continuous

development of a basic idea, although, there are

certainly some theoretical and terminological

discontinuities. The task is to abstract the original

vision or experience from contradictory concepts, to

identify the non-verbal essence of Homœopathy which

should be expressible in more than one theoretical

frame-work and be transferable to different times and

languages.

Early writings of HAHNEMANN

(1790-1809)

In 1790, in his translation of William Cullenřs

Materia Medica, HAHNEMANN drew the attention of

the reader to his observation that Ŗsubstances which

arouse a kind of fever extinguish the types of

intermittent feverŗ.

22

Referring to this early statement, in article

published in Hufelandřs Journal in 1796,

HAHNEMANN presented himself as a Ŗtrue physician

having the perfection of his art at heartŗ. He focused

exclusively on two questions: 1. What pure effects do

medicines bring forth in healthy human bodies? And 2.

What do their effects in distinct diseases teach us?

23

Rejecting all other (indirect) sources of medicinal

knowledge, such as chemistry, botany, animal

experiments, etc., HAHNEMANN advocated drug

provings on healthy humans and treatment according to

the principle Ŗsimilia similibusŗ. However, if a basic

cause of a disease, such as a tapeworm (taenia), was

known, its elimination would be the Ŗvia regiaŗ of the

art of healing. If no basic cause was known, i.e. in the

majority of cases, antipathic treatment (treatment by the

contrary) would be suitable only in acute diseases.

Chronic diseases, on the other hand, were to be treated

with so-called Řspecificsř, i.e. remedies which have

proven their practical uses in similar cases. For any

state of disease there should be a specific remedy.

24

Hahnemannřs uncompromising pragmatic attitude

toward his goal of healing human beings in this early

publication is very striking. It results in a differentiated

and balanced handling of the causal and

phenomenological approach.

In another publication in Hufelandřs Journal, in

1797, HAHNEMANN for the first time distinguished

between Ŗdynamicallyŗ and Ŗchemicallyŗ acting

medicines.

25

In 1800, in his translation of Richard

Pearsonřs Thesaurus Medicaminum, he contrasted

Ŗdynamicŗ with Ŗmechanicŗ,

26

and in 1801, in

Hufelandřs Journal, with Ŗatomicŗ.

27

In 1801, again in Hufelandřs Journal,

HAHNEMANN introduced his conception of Ŗfixed

(stable) diseasesŗ which have a stable cause, for

instance a Ŗquite invariable miasmŗ, like Syphilis or

Psora, and run a similar course. All other diseases,

infinitely different in their symptoms, had to be

individually considered.

28

ŖIn practically useful

regardŗ HAHNEMANN also distinguished Ŗmaterialŗ

and Ŗdynamicŗ causes of diseases. If a material cause,

such as a splinter, a foreign body, or a gall-stone, could

be detected and eliminated, this should be done. Since

dynamic causes were not known in their essence,

however Ŕ even if one knew their names, like Psora,

Syphilis, or Smallpox Ŕ they could not be treated

directly.

29

In these publications HAHNEMANN presented

himself as a practical physician who emphasized the

distinctions mentioned, because these seemed to him to

have direct therapeutic consequences.

In 1805, in Hufelandřs Journal, HAHNEMANN

presented his doctrine under the heading Therapeutics

of Experience (known also as The Medicine of

Experience).

30

[I feel that the right translation of

Heilkunde der Erfahrung will be ŘPractical

Therapeuticsř = KSS]. Once more he pointed out that

some diseases may have one and the same cause (e.g. a

miasm): these may be called Ŗpeculiar diseasesŗ, bear

single names, and be treated with the same remedy. All

the rest of the diseases, however, were not homogenous

and could not be enumerated. They had to be

considered and treated individually, comprising a

unique combination of manifold influences in this

person under these particular circumstances. In case-

taking the physician should ask for basic causes as well

as for exciting causes.

31

Aside from these practical considerations this paper

was dominated by Hahnemannřs attempt to theoretically

explain his doctrine in terms of contemporary concepts.

For this (academic) purpose he had to resort to a

stimulus theory in order to explain the principle of

similar: pathogenic and medicinal stimuli (potencies)

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 73

provoke diseases. If they are dissimilar, they suspend

each other; if they are similar, they extinguish each

other.

32

By means of a semiotic theory he tried to

substantiate his phenomenological approach toward the

many individual diseases: since the inner essence of any

disease reveals itself through signs and symptoms, they

are Ŗthe disease itselfŗ.

33

To justify why a knowledge of all signs and

symptoms suffices for healing every individual disease,

HAHNEMANN took refuge in teleological and

metaphysical concepts: God, the wise and beneficent

creator of humankind, guarantees that, also under the

condition of a limited perception, humans must be able

to cure. ŖTherapeuticsŗ was now defined as a Ŗscience

of experienceŗ.

34

However, ostensible cures by non-

curative remedies were denied.

35

This publication was the forerunner of the

Organon. HAHNEMANN embarked upon the

scientific discourse of his time, and was obviously

under pressure to explain and sustain in current

academic terms what he had been doing in practice for

more than 10 years. With the claim of conforming to

science, the necessity arose to give reasons for

everything. Since any proof or argument is based on

certain premises, HAHNEMANN was ultimately forced

to introduce theological topics into his medical writings,

as the ultimate premise.

In 1807, again in Hufelandřs Journal,

HAHNEMANN coined and defined the term

Ŗhomeopathicŗ, complained that the Ŗtruthŗ of

curative healing was not yet Ŗscientifically

recognizedŗ, and called his doctrine Ŗthe most rational

and perfect way of healingŗ.

36

Up to this publication

the term Ŗrationalŗ was used by HAHNEMANN only

casually, for example when he spoke of the Ŗmore

rational modern timesŗ in 1797,

37

a Ŗrational

physicianŗ in 1800,

38

or the Ŗrational useŗ of coffee in

1803.

39

From this time, however, when

HAHNEMANN entered a phase of defending his

doctrine as an entity, the term Ŗrationalŗ Ŕ as well as

Ŗtruthŗ Ŕ became increasingly important to him.

At the same time, in a series of articles in a popular

journal for a broader public known as Allgemeiner

Anzeiger der Deutschen, HAHNEMANN kept his

distance from traditional sciences. In 1808 he stressed

that since the way Ŗvitalityŗ works is not reducible to

any mechanical, physical, or chemical measure, the wise

physician confines himself to a Ŗknowledge of vitality

by experienceŗ.

40

In 1809 he recommended to a

student the Ŗstudy of medicineŗ, but only because Ŗone

has to know, what concepts people who consider

themselves clever physicians have, of all the things

which they do not understandŗ.

41

On the other hand, in an open letter to Hufeland, in

1808, HAHNEMANN tried to reconstruct his discovery

in a picture as consistent and incontestable as possible,

drawing heavily on teleological arguments. In this

context, for the first time he called his new therapeutic

maxim a Ŗlaw of natureŗ and compared his difficulties

in being recognized to those of Luther.

42

In 1809 HAHNEMANN made a significant change

of meaning in his terminology: the term Ŗart of

remedyingŗ was used pejoratively, while the term

Ŗtherapeuticsŗ became the new ideal.

43

The six editions of the Organon

(1810-1842)

Hahnemannřs high valuation of the terms Ŗrationalŗ

and Ŗtherapeuticsŗ during that period may certainly

have influenced the title of the book, whose 200

th

anniversary is celebrated this year: the Organon of

Rational Therapeutics. In this work HAHNEMANN

introduced the noun ŖHomeopathyŗ and for the first

time presented the full formulation of the basic maxim

of Homœopathy: Ŗsimilia similibus curenturŗ.

7

Leaning

on a quotation from Francis BACON (1561-1626) first

mentioned in 1805,

44

the Ŗart of healingŗ was now

denounced as having been a Ŗconjectural artŗ Ŕ until

Hahnemannřs revision had brought forth the Ŗbeneficial

truthŗ.

45

Hahnemannřs own ambition was Ŗrationally

curingŗ, i.e. Ŗaccording to fixed reasonsŗ.

7

His doctrine

was claimed to rest upon the Ŗhomœopathic law of

cureŗ,

46

the Ŗhomœopathic law of natureŗ,

47

the Ŗlaw of

homœopathy without exceptionsŗ,

48

and some more

Ŗspecial laws of rational therapeuticsŗ.

49

Regarding the

examples of involuntary homœopathic cures by former

physicians he even spoke of Ŗhomœopathic causal

connectionsŗ.

50

The stimulus theory advocated in 1805 was now

replaced by the idea that Ŗthe organism obtains a special

tuning from the diseaseŗ and cannot receive a second

one without having to abandon the first.

51

Drug proving

was explained entirely in Cartesian terms: Ŗmedicinal

substances produce disease symptoms, according to

special lawsŗ.

52

In 1810, more than in 1805, HAHNEMANN was

concerned about fitting his knowledge and insights into

standard scientific terms and concepts. In consequence,

some of his more practical findings almost sank into

insignificance, like his further differentiation between

fixed, individual, and collective diseases

53

and his

elaboration of the conception of Ŗvicarious maladiesŗ,

54,

55

which substitute, mask or replace the danger of an

internal serious disease, for instance by an external

eruption on a less important part of the body (a concept

introduced in 1809),

56, 57

as a warning against treating

local symptoms without curing the Ŗinner diseaseŗ, such

as Syphilis or Psora.

58

The problem of the attempt to grasp phenomena of

the living in terms of rationality is a tendency to

generalization and dogmatism. Indeed, in 1813, in an

©Quarterly Homœopathic Digest XXVIII, 3&4/2011. For private circulation only. 74

article in the popular journal mentioned above,

HAHNEMANN even claimed that nature acts according

to the (homœopathic) Ŗlawsŗ Ŕ Ŗwith mathematical

certaintyŗ Ŗin all casesŗ. Homœopathy was asserted to

be the most Ŗcertain, reliable, gentle, quick, and lasting

wayŗ of healing.

59

In 1819, a second edition of the Organon appeared,

now entitled Organon of the Art of Healing. In the

preface HAHNEMANN stated several times that his

subject is the Ŗtrue art of healingŗ, conceptualized as a

Ŗpure science of experienceŗ.

60

The term Ŗrationalŗ, so

prominent in the first edition, was now erased from the

entire book, except for one footnote where it was used

to denounce the errors of the old Řrationalř school.

61

This ostracism of the term Ŗrationalŗ was maintained

through all subsequent editions of the Organon.

The same change of attitude may also be seen in a

subtle shift of wording in paragraph 1: In 1810 the

starting point and subject was Ŗthe physicianŗ who had

a Ŗgoalŗ. From 1819 to 1842, the emphasis was laid

upon the Ŗcalling of the physicianŗ, putting the

physician into the genitive. In addition, a new footnote

to this section from now on served as an explicit

demarcation from academic theorizing, in which

professors of Ŗtheoretic medicinal artŗ used to indulge.

62

While in the first edition a teleological poem from

Chrisitian Fürchtegott Gellert (1715-1769) was on the

title page, this was now substituted by the motto Ŗaude

sapereŗ (Ŗdare to knowŗ or Ŗdare to be wiseŗ) Ŕ

whereby Řsapereř not only means Řknowingř, but also

Řsmellingř, a sensual activity that may not entirely be

translatable into rational concepts.

The terms and concepts used in the second edition,

to give Hahnemannřs medical colleagues a clear idea

about Homœopathy, were less Cartesian-academic and

closer to the phenomena. Diseases were now described

as Ŗspiritual derangements of our life in feelings and

activitiesŗ or Ŗimmaterial derangements of our well-

beingŗ.

63

At the same time, he continued to claim (up to

the sixth edition), that his doctrine was based on the

homœopathic Ŗlaw of natureŗ or Ŗhealing law of

natureŗ.

64

Of practical relevance was Hahnemannřs

suggestion to ask patients for a former infection with

specific miasms, such as Syphilis, Psora, or Sycosis,

since the local symptom, such as the chancre or the skin

rash, may have disappeared and with it the

completeness of the picture.

65

The third edition of Organon, published in 1824,

was a largely unaltered version of the second.

Nevertheless, HAHNEMANN inserted an approving

comment on Mesmerism and some extensions of

practical rules for the treatment of chronic diseases.

66

Sycosis was depicted clearly, as an internal disease with

specific local and secondary symptoms, taking its place

besides Psora and Syphilis. For the treatment of Psora

HAHNEMANN suggested the internal use of the best

Ŗantipsoric remedyŗ, using the term Ŗantipsoricŗ for the

first time.

67

In 1828, HAHNEMANN published his monograph

on the nature and treatment of Chronic Diseases. As he

wrote, he had been working on this issue since 1816,

68,

69

i.e. since the time between the first and second edition

of the Organon. Based on his concepts of fixed

diseases, vicarious maladies, and original and exciting

causes, HAHNEMANN now attributed all chronic

disease to a previous infection with a chronic miasm

(Psora, Syphilis, or Sycosis) and claimed that these

could only be healed homœopathically. The fact that

Psora was conceptualized to be the most infectious and

versatile disease, persisting, without cure, lifelong, like

a Ŗparasiteŗ,

70

had the far-reaching consequence that

virtually nobody would be free of it. HAHNEMANN

considered himself to be one of very few exceptions.

71

Upto the Psora theory, normality had consisted of

healthy people occasionally becoming ill. Now (almost)

everybody had to be considered to be chronically ill, at

least in a latent state, and unable to recover without

homœopathic aid.

In the fourth edition of the Organon, published in

1829, the paradigmatic changes resulting from Psora

theory had been incorporated and digested. One of the

main concepts helping HAHNEMANN to explain why

the average human would be ill, and not healthy, was

the Ŗlife-forceŗ. In the first edition of the Organon this

term appeared only once,

72

in the second edition twice,

73

in the third edition 10 times (mainly in connection with

mesmerism),

74

and even in the Chronic Diseases, in

1828, only three times,

75

always in a general and non-

specific sense. In the fourth edition, however,

HAHNEMANN used it 70 times,

76

in the fifth 139

times, and in the sixth, posthumous, edition, 106 times.

In contrast to his earlier use of the term Ŗlife-forceŗ

as a metaphor or synonym for Ŗnatureŗ or Ŗorganismŗ,

HAHNEMANN now distinguished between Ŗwiseŗ Ŗbig

nature itselfŗ and the Ŗmere individual nature of the

organic humanŗ, namely the Ŗinstinctive, unreasonable

life-forceŗ which once out of tune acts Ŗblindlyŗ,

Ŗautomaticallyŗ, and Ŗinappropriatelyŗ and whose

Ŗefforts are itself illnessŗ.

77

This, of course, should not be imitated. On the

contrary, the Ŗart of healingŗ required the Ŗhigher

human spiritŗ Ŗfree deliberationŗ, and Ŗreasoningŗ,

78

to

Ŗretuneŗ the Ŗdetuned life-forceŗ. Only from this point

on was disease defined as Ŗa derangement of the life-

forceŗ and chronic miasms considered to be the Ŗbiggest

tormentors of humansŗ.

79

The fifth edition of the Organon, published in

1833, was influenced by issues of confrontation and

demarcation, including significantly harsher attacks on

Allopathy,

80

but also a new delimitation of

Homœopathy as distinct from Ŗisopathyŗ

81

against a

putative Ŗsect of bastard-homœopathsŗ,

82

and a new

group of Ŗconceited beginnersŗ and converts.

83

In the

course of a tightening of homœopathic identity, from

now on he claimed Homœopathy to be the Ŗonly true art

of healingŗ, just as Ŗbetween two points there is only

one straight lineŗ,

84

and suggested using the 30c potency

as a standard dose, especially in the form of Ŗsmellingŗ

(also known as olfaction).

85

Outstripping his former assessments,

HAHNEMANN now estimated the number of people

affected by chronic diseases at 99% .

86

In the sixth

edition, however, he reduced this to Ŗthe majority of

diseasesŗ.

87

The sixth edition of the Organon, completed by

HAHNEMANN in manuscript in 1842, contained few

changes of concept and ideas in principle. From a

practical point of view, there were a number of relevant

modifications of doctrine presented for the first time.

The most surprising was his new and more sophisticated

method of potentisation, later called Q or LM, fifty-

millesimal potencies,

88, 89

together with new directions

for dosage and intervals of prescription and rules for

following-up cases, including the description of a new

kind of late aggravation.

90

Contrary to the editions three to five,

HAHNEMANN no longer considered mesmerism as a

mere Ŗauxiliary aidŗ which could Ŗact

homœopathicallyŗ but not perform a Ŗlasting cureŗ.

91-93

Rather mesmerism was now granted the peer status of

an Ŗinvaluable gift of Godŗ, equally able to Ŗextinguish

the derangement of the life-forceŗ.

94

HAHNEMANN

also admitted Ŕ under certain circumstances Ŕ the

usefulness of the application of magnets, electricity, and

galvanism, as well as of massages and baths.

95

For the

first time he also included a vision of homœopathic

hospitals and education.

96

Conclusion and outlook

It should now be clear that the Organon of

Rational Therapeutics, published in 1810, cannot be

adequately understood and judged without considering

its context. With the first edition of the Organon,

Homœopathy neither began nor ended. On the contrary,

its position seems to be rather in the midst of

Hahnemannřs literary and practical lifeřs work. Basic

principles of Homœopathy, like drug proving and

treatment by similar, had already been prefigured in

1796.

Other fundamental concepts, such as Ŗdynamicŗ,

Ŗfixed diseaseŗ, Ŗmiasmŗ, and Ŗoriginal and exciting

causesŗ were developed in 1796, 1797, 1801, and 1805,

respectively. In 1805 various scientific theories were

drawn upon to make the new method plausible,

understandable, and acceptable to academic physicians.

Even the name Ŗhomœopathicŗ had already been coined

in 1807. Compared to these preliminaries, the particular

achievement of the first edition of the Organon was

little more than a deliberate alignment with the

prevailing trend of rationality.

On the other hand, formal similarities of the six

editions of the Organon, viewed superficially, may give

the impression that all editions were basically the same,

just republished at different times, with some

corrections. A deeper, comparative analysis shows

them in a different light. Each seems to possess an

individual personality: from the first, most ambitious

and rationalistic edition, to the second, more artistic and

phenomenological, to the third, almost unaltered, to the

fourth, which was dominated by the Psora theory, to the

fifth, the most pugnacious and delimiting, to the sixth,

probably the most pragmatic and balanced. Each

corresponded to a phase in Hahnemannřs life and

development, his social conditions, and intellectual

environment.

After starting out to impress readers of his first

Organon by means of the rationalistic claim to make

medicine a natural science in 1810, HAHNEMANN

anew the ideal of medicine as an Ŗart of healingŗ in

1819, had almost nothing to add to this in 1824,

assimilated a large paradigmatic change in 1829,

defended his doctrine against various threats and false

friends in 1833, and, after moving to Paris, perfected

his lifeřs work in 1842.

The six editions of the Organon are different, but

connected by a strong invisible thread. It is

Hahnemannřs basic idea of an art of healing that, on the

one hand, attempts to conform as closely as possible to

the sick human and primary phenomena (disturbed well-

being/feeling, detuned vitality, remedies as potencies to

influence these states) and, on the other hand, strives to

find tools, rules and laws that make the highly

demanding practice of medicine certain and reliable.

If one admits this basic idea to be the core of the

spirit of HAHNEMANN, pervading all his writings,

practice, and research, there still remains the need to

translate this hazy vision into concrete terms and

concepts: a challenge which HAHNEMANN met and

pioneered throughout his life. That he had to comply

with theories, ideas, and conceptions of his time and

contemporaries, does not at all impair his achievements.

On the contrary: instead of criticizing or deconstructing

Hahnemannřs dependence on contemporary conditions,

homœopaths should engage in the task of carrying his

noble and beneficial intention into the 21

st

century,

trying to translate the perennial mission of medicine into

the language of modern science, humanities, and

philosophy.

Only if one tried to write a seventh edition of the

Organon, would one probably realize how much

HAHNEMANN had already accomplished in the

previous six.

Conflict of interest

None.

Acknowledgement

I thank Francis Treuherz MA RSHom FSHom for

reviewing and editing the paper.

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Krankheiten…1828; Vol. 1, p.57.

72. Hahnemann S. Organon I; 1810, §227.

73. Hahnemann S. Organon II; 1819, §§75, 287.

74. Hahnemann S. Organon der Heilkunst. 3. Auflage

[=Organon III]. Dresden: Arnold, 1824, §§ 75,

287, 319, 320.

75. Hahnemann S. Die chronischen Krankheiten…

1828; Vol. 1, pp.2, 86; 1828, Vol. 3, p.49.

76. Hahnemann S. Organon der Heilkunst. 4.

Auflage [= Organon IV]. Dresden, Leipzig:

Arnold, 1829, pp iv-vi, xii, 9, 15, 23, 24, 26, 27, 29,

32, 34-41, 43, 45, 51; §§ 17, 24, 40, 46, 48, 60, 65,

66, 68, 72, 105, 142, 191, 198, 202, 263, 280, 291,

292.

77. Hahnemann S. Organon IV; 1829, pp iii-vi.

78. Hahnemann S. Organon IV; 1829, p 41.

79. Hahnemann S. Organon IV; 1829, p 9, §§ 24, 40;

71.

80. Hahnemann S. Organon der Heilkunst. 5. Auflage

[=Organon V]. Dresden, Leipzig: Arnold, 1833, pp

iii-x.

81. Hahnemann S. Organon V; 1833, pp 67-70, §56.

82. Hahnemann S. Organon V; 1833, p ix, §§67, 149,

246.

83. Hahnemann S. Organon V; 1833, §253.

84. Hahnemann S. Organon V; 1833, §§109, 143; 54,

109.

85. Hahnemann S. Organon V; 1833, §§ 270, 246,

287; 288, 285.

86. Hahnemann S. Organon V; 1833, p v.

87. Hahnemann S. Organon der Heilkunst. 6. Auflage

(1842) [ = Organon VI]. Schmidt JM (ed).

Heidelberg: Haug, 1992, p 2, §204.

88. Hahnemann S. Organon VI; 1842, §§ 270-271.

89. Schmidt JM. Q/LM potencies: historical reasons for

the long delay in their recognition. Homeopathy

2006; 95: 121-122.

90. Hahnemann S. Organon VI; 1842, §§280-282.

91. Hahnemann S. Organon III; 1824, §319.

92. Hahnemann S. Organon IV; 1829, § 291.

93. Hahnemann S. Organon V; 1833, § 293.

94. Hahnemann S. Organon VI;1842, §288.

95. Hahnemann S. Organon VI; 1842, §§286-287; 290-

291.

96. Hahnemann S. Organon VI; 1842, § 271.

========================================

11. 7 Stepping Stones to Select a Successful Remedy

Practice is Everything

CASTRO, Miranda (HT. 31, 1/2011)

Practice these seven steps as you would any other

new skill and the results will be deeply rewarding. As

you become familiar with the unique patterns of your

childřs way of falling sick and the remedies that tend to

help, youřll find you are spending less time in the

doctorřs office and more time enjoying life. Once you

have gone through this remedy selection process a few

times, youřll find it becomes easier and quicker.

1. Step back and consider the whole picture

2. Make notes

3. Gather 3 or more symptoms

4. Remember, common symptoms are for dummies

5. Identify a Ŗcauseŗ.

6. Compare two or more remedies

7. Give your chosen remedy and observe carefully….

If at first you donřt succeed …

Read on for more details about each step.

1. Step back and consider the whole picture

Home prescribers often make the mistake of

focusing on the one symptom or complaint that is

bothering them or their child. It is completely

understandable. Unfortunately it will not guide you to

the best remedy for that person. Take more of that

person into account (i.e., 3 or more symptoms) and you

are now pinning the tail on the donkey without a mask

over your eyes!

2. Make notes

Write down each and every remedy given and the

date (donřt forget the year!)

Got down the reason and the symptoms Ŕ a simple

list is fine.

Make a note of any other remedy or remedies you

considered and why, just in case the one you give

doesnřt work.

Make a note of the response to the remedy---even if

itřs just a few words.

Write down other medications given including

herbs, supplements, aspirin, and cough syrup, etc.

The quicker and better a remedy works, the more

likely it will be that your child will need it again for a

similar complaint, especially if you have taken a stress

factor into account when selecting it. Occasionally,

home prescribers will throw a pebble that lands in the

dead center of their childřs pond-they will hit on their

childřs constitutional remedy. This is the remedy that

works for everything: from colds and teething, to

growing pains and exam nerves. It is always brilliant to

catch this gift because you made good notes as you were

going along. We donřt often get that same super clear

picture again to guide us.

3. Gather 3 or more symptoms

Any time you give a remedy based on a single

symptom, you are just guessing. You want a nice strong

Ŗ3-legged stoolŗ to support your choice---or even more

Ŗlegs,ŗ if you can:

One physical symptomŕnewbies (and some oldies)

make the common mistake of choosing three or

more physical symptoms. Unless the physical

symptoms are unusual or unique, they will rarely

lead you to a good remedy.

One general symptom (i.e., that affects the whole

person, such as feeling chilly or feeling worse from

motion or feeling worse in a stuffy room, or being

more or less thirsty or sweaty than usual)ŕ

especially if it is unusual or very strong or brand

new.

One emotional symptomŕespecially something

new or different from normal (e.g., irritable with a

fever, or weepy and whiny with teething pains, or

wanting to be carried with earache, especially if in a

formerly easy-going or contented child).

A cause.

4. Common symptoms are for dummies

Common symptoms (those symptoms that are so

common to the complaint that just about anyone with

that complaint will have them) pop up in the

descriptions of nearly every remedy that might be used

to help that complaint. If you select a remedy based

primarily on the common symptoms of an illness, you

will often find yourself giving one remedy after another

that doesnřt work.

Examples:

ŖMy teething baby is drooling and chewing on

everything. Sheřs in pain and is waking a lot at

night.ŗ Of course she is. Thatřs the nature of

teething babies. Youřll have to elicit some more

unique symptoms to help you find a good remedy!

ŖMy baby has a high fever and sheřs really

uncomfortable and sleepy. The fever is higher in

the evenings and at night, and lower in the

mornings.ŗ Yup. Thatřs the pattern with most

fevers. So that symptom wonřt narrow down the

remedy choices.

ŖMy child has the snuffles and her nose is quite

blocked. She canřt fall asleep at night and sleeps

with her mouth open.ŗ Oh yes. Blocked nose,

mouth breather. (Big yawn. Such a common

symptom for anyone with snufflesŕit wonřt help

you decide anything!)

ŖMy baby has a cough. Itřs worse when he lies

down at night.ŗ Coughs are nearly always worse

lying down. Iřm afraid itřs a common symptom

that will get you absolutely nowhere.

5. Identify a cause

This is the most important symptom of all. If you

can identify it, it will lead you to a great remedy. Did

you or your child experience any obvious (or not so

obvious) stresses before falling sick? For example:

Physical stresses: getting chilled, lack of sleep, an

injury.

Emotional stresses: any kind of upset, a loss or

disappointment.

6. Compare two or more remedies

Having written down the symptoms, you can look

them up in a repertory/index to the Materia Medica. (If

youřre a home prescriber, you will find the mini-

repertory in one of my books a good and non-

intimidating way to start using a repertory.)

After you have narrowed your choice down to a

few remedies compare them in a Materia Medica to help

you to become familiar with their whole symptom

profiles. When you read the whole picture does it seem

like it matches? Or not so much? Now read each

profile more carefully and notice any other symptoms

you can check up on, in order to add to your childřs

whole picture. For example, one remedy may be

indicated for a pale tongue and the other for a bright red

tongue. You can check your childřs tongue to see

whether it matches one remedyřs profile over the other.

You may also notice symptoms that donřt fitŕ

make a note of those too as they will help you decide

where to go next if the first remedy doesnřt work. The

more of a picture you have, the more confident you can

be in your remedy choice.

7. Give the remedy & observe carefully… If at first

you donřt succeed…

Remember patience at this point. Jumping from

one remedy to another will get you all discombobulated

and lead you astray. If your child seems better in

herself even if her symptoms are no better, then a

healing process has been initiated. Cross your fingers

and wait as patiently as possible! Observe your child

during this time to gather additional symptoms that crop

up in case she eventually does need a new remedy.

If the first well-indicated remedy does not help,

then the work you have already done will help

tremendously in selecting your next remedy. You may

even be able to go straight to your #2 choice. Because

you have written it down you wonřt mistakenly give the

remedy that hasnřt worked again, plus you wonřt have

to go back to the drawing board.

If the remedies you give donřt help or the

symptoms worsen, of course you will want to seek the

advice of a professional homœopath.

How to take a remedy

You can treat yourself and/or your loved ones for

minor/everyday, recent complaints. Do not treat

yourself for recurring or chronic complaints. Seek

professional advice for chronic, recurring, or long-

standing complaints.

Take the remedy in a 6c, 12c, 30X or 30C potency.

Repeat the dose according to the severity of the

symptoms:

Life-threatening: every 5-15 minutes.

Severe: every ½-1hour (e.g., high fever,

unbearable pain)

Moderate: every 2-4 hours

Mild: every 4-6 hours (e.g., able to carry on

working!)

Tonic: every 8 hours (e.g., tiredness after

childbirth).

Stop on improvement: take it less often if there is

moderate improvement and stop taking it as soon as

there is significant improvement.

Repeat as needed: repeat the same remedy if it

helped and the symptoms returnŕstarting and

stopping as needed until better.

Change the remedy if 6ŕ10 doses have been taken

with no result. It is probably the wrong choiceŕ

select another one or get help.

Bottom line: If you are not sure whether to give a

remedy, donřt. If you are not sure whether to repeat a

remedy, wait!

========================================

12. MEDICAL LAW Ŕ SOME ASPECTS

GOOPTU, Naranarayan (S & C. 5-6/2006)

The Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV

of the Constitution of India clearly stipulates that ŖThe

State shall regard the raising of the level of nutrition and

the standard of living of its people and the improvement

of public health as among its primary dutiesŗ and, in

particular, the State shall endeavour to bring about

prohibition of Ŗthe consumption except for medicinal

purposes of intoxicating drinks and of drugs which are

injurious to healthŗ. In the case of Paschim Banga Khet

Mazdoor Samity v. State of West Bengal JT, 1996 (6)

SC43, the Supreme Court also held that providing

adequate medical facilities for the people is an essential

obligation for a welfare state. But even after 57 years of

our independence, have we been able to make any

progress towards attaining this fundamental goal of

good governance?

Certainly some progress has been made. Medical

science and Medical Law in our country have reached

new heights; mortality rate is certainly on decline. Yet,

lot more needs to be done. Isnřt it a matter of shame

that at least one TB patient dies every minute in India

and that one lakh children die of malnutrition every

month

1

? The doctor-patient ratio, especially in the rural

areas, is abysmally low. Besides, the increasing

commercialization of the medical profession is making

modern modern medical facilities beyond the reach of

the vast multitude of the population. It is in this

perspective that the subject chosen for todayřs oration is

of crucial significance.

Medical law and medico-legal issues involve a

relatively new subject area. Previously medical law

was regarded as a mixture of criminal law, tort, contract

and property concepts. Nowadays medical law has

emerged as a subject in its own right, but there is still

debate as to what, if anything makes it a discrete area of

the law. Medical law does not respect the traditional

compartments with which lawyers have become

familiar, such as torts, contracts, criminal law, family

law and public law. Instead, medical law cuts across all

of these subjects and today must be regarded as a

subject in its own right. It is a discrete area concerned

with the law governing the interactions between doctors

and patients and the organization of health care.

Medical law is about rights and duties, which are legal

and ethical as well as moral. Where issues of medical

law and practice area concerned, human rights issues

abound. Modern medicine has increasingly been seen

in terms of human righs.

Medical law has to be understood in the context of

medical ethics and the Hippocratic tradition. The key

element of the Hippocratic Oath is for doctors to

practice and prescribe to the best of their ability for the

good of their patients, and to try to avoid harming

patients. The patient-doctor relationship is based on

trust here, although in some views, this might place the

patient in a hierarchically subordinate position to the

doctor, and may lead to Řprofessional paternalismř. The

infusion of a discourse of rights of patients is seen to

inject an equitable element in the doctor-patient

relationship.

In 1999, the European Federation of Internal

Medicine and the American Board of Internal Medicine

combined to launch the Medical Professionalism

Project, which published a document entitled ŖMedical

Professionalism in the new millennium: A Physicianřs

charterŗ. In this, three fundamental principles provide

definitive professional responsibilities: (1) Principle of

primacy of patient welfare (beneficence and non-

maleficence; altruism); (2) Principle of patient

autonomy; (3) Principle of social justice Ŕ to promote

justice and non-discrimination in the healthcare system,

including fair distribution and access to healthcare

resources. Medical Law thus goes beyond medical

ethics governing the practice of doctors, but is also

geared to ensure patientsř rights, resolve conflict and

ensure equity.

Since the scope of the topic is so vast, I have

chosen to restrict myself to the most important six

aspects of Medical Law, namely

I. Medical Negligence.

II. Consent

III. Children and Consent

IV. Medical Confidentiality

V. Abortion

VI. Euthanasia

Medical Negligence:

One of the most important aspects of any

profession is the degree of excellence, which a person

practicing that profession can give in his results. There

are many aspects, which determine the relative

competence of an individual in a group, vocation or a

particular line of personalized and highly skilled

practice. What is more important is that one acts,

conducts himself and discharges his duties in such a

manner as would be expected from a prudent

contemporary in a similar situation having access to

similar facilities and in the know-how of the principles

of such a practice in general. Medical negligence is the

result of some irregular conduct on the part of any

member of the profession in the discharge of the

professional duties.

The essential components of the tort of negligence

are as follows:

a. The existence of a duty to take care, which is owed

by the defendant to the complainant

b. The failure to attain that standard of care prescribed

by the law, thereby committing a breach of such

duty, and

c. The complainant has suffered damage, which is

both casually connected with such breach and

recognized by the law.

The duties, which a doctor owes to his patient, are

clear. In Dr. Lakshman Balkrishna Joshi v Dr. Trimbak

Babu Godbole (AIR 1969 Sc 128) it was held that a

person who holds himself out ready, to give medical

advice, and treatment, impliedly undertakes that he is

possessed of skill and knowledge for the purpose. Such

a person, when consulted by a patient, owes him certain

duties, like duty of care in deciding whether to

undertake the case, a duty of care in deciding what

treatment to give or a duty of care in the administration

of the treatment. The test for medical negligence was

laid down in two cases, those being Bolam v Frien

Hospital Management Committee [1957] 2 AIIER 118

and Hunter v Hanley [1955] SLT 213, Mc. Nair J.

encapsulated in the Bolamřs case that Ŗ…It is sufficient

if he [doctor] exercises the ordinary skill of an ordinary

competent man exercising that particular act…ŗ and the

same was done by Lord Clyde in Hunterřs case from

Scotland in the following words: Ŗ…The true test for

establishing negligence in diagnosis or treatment on the

part of a doctor, is whether he has been proved to be

guilty of such failure as no doctor of ordinary skill

would be guilty of, if acting with ordinary care.ŗ

There may be many instances where a doctor may

be negligent. In the case of K. Gracykutty v. Dr.

Annamma Oommen and Another, 1992 (1) CPR 251,

The Kerala State Consumer Disputes Redressal

Commission observed that the following acts would fall

under the ambit of medical negligence:

a. Misrepresenting that one possesses the skill or

expertise which he does not possess;

b. Recklessness in undertaking a treatment or

recklessness in the treatment of it;

c. Indifferent handling of medical cases;

d. Failure to act diligently and alertly at the

appropriate time;

e. Evident negligence like amputating a wrong limb or

administering a prohibited or known counter

productive medicine;

f. Negligence in conducting operation;

g. Unqualified nurse or unqualified person attending

to serious delivery cases

h. Supply of contaminated blood

i. Wrong diagnosis or treatment which under no

norms of practice can be justified.

The above list, however, is only illustrative and by

no means exhaustive.

There are, however, exceptions where wrongful or

mistaken diagnosis would not amount to medical

negligence. A doctor cannot be found to be negligent

simply because one of the risks inherent in the treatment

actually took place, or because in a matter of opinion, he

made an error of judgment. He can be guilty of

negligence only when he has fallen short of the standard

of reasonable medical care. What is the standard of

reasonable medical care to be adopted would again vary

and would depend on the facts and circumstances of

each case. However, in every case of medical

negligence, it is for the person initiating the complaint

to prove that there was infact negligence on the part of

the doctors/authorities in providing their services.

Where the complainant fails to establish any deficiency

of service or negligence, the complainant would not be

entitled to any compensation. The following are actions

that do not amount to medical negligence, as decided by

various Consumer Courts in India.

a. Not obtaining written consent or not providing

ambulance by the hospital [K. Gracykutty v Dr.

Annamma Oommen 1992 (1) CPR 251.]

b. Patient not getting the desired relief or the medical

treatment not being successful [K.M. Singh v. Sir

Gangaram Hospital 1992(2) CPR 307; Sri Ram

Singh v Sampatraj 1993(2) CPJ 869]

c. Not providing a bed to a serious patient in ICU of

hospital where no vacant bed is available [Sir

Gangaram Hospital v. D.P. Bhandari 1992(2) CPJ

397].

d. Mistaken diagnosis [Pearaylal Verma v A.K. Gupta

1993(3) CPR 144].

e. Doctor giving precedence to one patient over

another [B.S. Hegde V Dr. Sudhanshu Bhattacharya

1993 (3) CPR 414] = II (1992) CP 449.

f. Charging exorbitant fees (although the act was

deprecated by the Court), it was held that the same

does not amount to medical negligence. [B. S.

Hegde v Dr. Sudhanshu Bhattacharya 1993(3) CPR

414] = II (1992) CPJ 449.

But the question remains if there is criminal

liability for medical negligence.

The existing Relevant Legal Provisions on this

matter are: According to S. 304A of the IPC, whoever

causes the death of any person by a rash or negligent act

not amounting to culpable homicide, shall be punished

by imprisonment for up to two years, or by fine, or both.

(Other relevant sections relating to obstctrics cases are:

314, 336, 337 and 358 IPC.).

According to S. 80 of the IPC, Řnothing is an

offence which is done by accident or misfortune, and

without any criminal intention or knowledge in the

doing of a lawful act, in a lawful manner, by lawful

means and with proper care and caution.ř In other

words, if a person commits an act by accident or

misfortune without a criminal intention, using lawful

means and with proper care and caution, his action

cannot be labelled a criminal offence.

Again, S. 88 of the IPC provides that nothing plain

which is not intended to cause death, is an offence by

reason of any harm which it may cause, or be intended

by the doer to cause, or be known by the doer to be

likely to cause, to any person for whose benefit it is

done in good faith, and who has given a consent,

whether express or implied, to suffer that harm, or to

take the risk of that harm. In other words, an act, not

intended to cause death, and done in good faith and with

the consent of the other party, cannot be labeled an

offence even if it leads to the other partyřs death or

disability. It may also be mentioned here that the word

Řgood faithř used here has a special meaning. It means

an act done with due care and attention.

The Supreme Court in its judgement dated February

4, 2004, in Mohanan v Prabha G Nair & another

(2004)CPJ 21(SC) case = 2004(2) SCALE 606 had laid

down the law of the land on the issue of medical

negligence. In this case a woman in the seventh month

of pregnancy underwent medical intervention and

delivered a dead child on the next day. She passed

away three days later, while under medical care. The

husband alleged in his police complaint that though he

repeatedly asked for permission to remove his wife to a

medical college hospital, the doctor advised against the

shift saying that the patient had no serious problem and

that everything would turn out all right. Subsequent

events obviously proved otherwise. Based on the

opinion of the radiologist and the doctor who conducted

the autopsy, the Magistrateřs Court took cognizance of

the offence punishable under S.304A of the IPC. The

doctor petitioned to quash the proceedings invoking S.

482 of the Criminal Procedure Code, on the ground that

there was no prima facie case. The concerned High

Court held that the mere fact that a patient dies in a

hospital does not lead to the presumption that the death

occurred due to the doctorřs negligence. To hold a

doctor criminally responsible for a patientřs death, it

must be established that there was negligence or

incompetence on the doctorřs part which went beyond

civil liability. Criminal liability would arise only if the

doctor did something in disregard to the patientřs life

and safety. The Supreme Court, however, set aside the

said High Court decision holding that the doctorřs

negligence could be ascertained only by scanning all

material and expert evidence that might be adduced

during the trial. The High court was held not justified in

quashing the complaint at the threshold invoking the

special power under S. 482 of the Criminal Procedure

Code, as that would do away with a full-fledged

criminal trial necessary for fixing criminal liability.

However, the Supreme Court declared on August 4,

2004, in Dr. Suresh Guptařs Criminal Appeal [Appeal

(crl.) 778 of 2004] [2004 (6) SCC 422] that to sustain a

prosecution for the offence under S. 304A of the Indian

Penal Code (IPC), and to fix criminal liability on a

doctor or surgeon, the standard of negligence required

to be proved should be so high that it can be described

as Řgross negligenceř or Řrecklessnessř, not merely lack

of necessary care. On those premises it quashed the

criminal proceedings against Dr. Gupta before they

reached trial in the Magistrateřs Court. In this case the

Supreme Court also noted that every careless act of a

medical person cannot be termed Řcriminalř. It can be

termed Řcriminalř only when doctors exhibit gross lack

of competence or inaction, and wanton indifference to

their patientsř safety, as a result of gross ignorance or

gross negligence. When a patientřs death results merely

from an error of judgement or an accident, no criminal

liability should be attached to it. Mere inadvertence or

some degree of want of adequate care and caution might

create civil liability; but not criminal liability. It was

held that but for this approach, the hazards in the

medical profession which include civil liability would

also unreasonably extend to criminal liability, and

doctors would then be at the risk of landing up in prison,

a result that would shake the mutual confidence between

doctor and patient. The Supreme Court held that though

the patient was a young man with no history of any

heart ailment, the operation to be performed for nasal

deformity was not so complicated or serious; and that

the alleged lapse, i.e. the failure to introduce a cuffed

endotracheal tube of proper size to prevent aspiration of

blood from the wound in the respiratory passage, could

not be described as a rickless or grossly negligent act as

to make him criminally liable. Holding that such

evidence was wanting, the doctor was let off without

trial.

It appears that if the decision in Mohananřs case

decided on 4.2.04 had been followed by the later Bench

that subsequently decided Dr. Suresh Guptařs case on

4.8.04, the ultimate decision might have been different.

The earlier decision was not cited before the later

Bench. The impact of the judgement, though

significant, may be short lived. The reason is that

according to press reports, a Bench of the Supreme

Court consisting of Justice Arijit Pasayat and Justice CK

Thakker, on or about September 9, 2004, has referred

the question of medical negligence for determination by

a larger Bench of the Supreme court observing that the

words Řgross, reckless, competence, indifferenceř etc.

did not occur anywhere in the definition of Řnegligenceř

under S. 304A of the IPC, and hence, they could not

agree with the judgment delivered in the case of Dr.

Suresh Gupta. Thus the matter will come up for a

decision before a larger bench of the Supreme Court any

time now.

Consumer Protection Act and Medical Negligence

The judgements of the Kerala state and

subsequently the national consumer disputes forum

upholding the right of patients to file complaints against

doctors under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) has

indeed shaken up the medical profession, vide Indian

Medical Association vs. V.P. Shantha (AIR 1996

SC550). What has probably come, as a bigger shock

however is the almost simultaneous indictment of

prominent and senior members of the profession by the

consumer court as if to immediately exemplify the

implications of the judgement. Multiple meetings have

been held by various associations of medical

professionals over the last few months where there have

been heated and emotional discussions on the issue.

The issue is being discussed and debated by the medical

fraternity as never before and the majority seems to be

opposed to the CPA. On the other hand, consumer

bodies and health activisits who have fought for long to

make the medical profession more accountable have

welcomed the development.

The first thing to be realized is that it is not as if

increased litigation against medical professionals in this

country has coincided with the above judgement. Even

before this development one has seen a steady rise of

cases both in the Medical Council as well as civil courts

on matters of medical negligence in the last few years.

On certain issues public interest litigation by activist

groups has led to courts intervening and asking the State

to take action. For example in a recent landmark

judgement the Bombay High Court has directed the

Municipal Corporation to set up minimum standards for

the thousands of private nursing homes that exist in the

city. In other instances the Government itself has been

forced to enact new laws in response to a public uproar

on issues like female foeticide and racketeering in organ

transplantation. Thus increased medical litigation is a

phenomenon that was on the rise and the CPA has just

given a boost to it by making the process simpler for the

litigant.

Before going into the arguments against the CPA

being applied to medical practice it would be important

to look into factors responsible for judicial intervention

in medical matters. On one hand there is the increased

awareness of the patient and the public, which to some

extent has been inspired by support from consumer and

social organizations as well as the media. And on the

other hand is of course the crass commercialization of

the medical profession coupled with a general failure to

self regulate itself. The criticism that Ŗnon medicalŗ

individuals preside over consumer courts and thus are ill

equipped to deliver judgement on Ŗmedicalŗ matters is

faulty for nowhere in the world is medicallitigation

decided by doctors sitting as judges. In fact, the judges

in the consumer courts are senior retired high court

judges and are likely to be more experienced. Another

argument advanced by the opponents of the CPA is that

increased litigation leads to the practice of Ŗdefensive

medicineŗ wherein doctors in order to Ŗplay it safeŗ

may resort to excessive investigations and increase the

financial burden on the patient. This is partially true.

But simultaneously it will also lead to more informed

consents and extra vigilance on the part of the treating

doctor, which in some areas would get translated into

better patient care. In any case it is unrealistic to draw a

parallel between the situation in the USA where medical

litigation is rampant and that in this country where

because of the socio economic conditions common

people cannot generally afford to take recourse to a

court of law.

It is well-known that there happens to be a close

link between excessive privatization and excessive

commercialization of medical practice, a fact not

sufficiently appreciated and emphasized by many in the

whole debate. For, privatised medicine has profit, as

itřs primary motive. When quick Ŗreturnsŗ are expected

against Ŗinvestmentŗ in medical practice, this could

make sound economics but this situation is potentially

dangerous for the patient. How else does one explain

managements of big five star hospitals turning a blind

eye to the kidney transplant rackets that flourish in their

institutes? Or the fact that these hospitals assess their

staff members five star hospitals turning a blind eye to

the kidney transplant rackets that flourish in their

institutes? This is not to say that public hospitals are

free from unethical practices. But the logic and

economics of private medicine actually forces it

practitioners to extract money from patients and hence

unbrided privatization could partially contribute to

malpractice.

Informed consent

A major and important aspect of medical practice

which has been a cause of action in several litigations is

that a doctor has administered treatment or performed a

procedure or investigation without consent or consent

taken was invalid. This aspect of medical practice,

which is considered routine by doctors, has been subject

matter of judicial scrutiny in quite a few medical

malpractice cases, as it involves the individual right of a

patient on one hand and the duty of a doctor to take due

care of his patient. Hence, it is of paramount

importance that correct and proper consent should be

obtained by doctor before proceeding to perform any

investigation or procedure.

Under Section 13 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872,

ŖConsentŗ is defined and it states that two or more

persons are said to consent when they agree to the same

thing in the same sense. The fact that a patient comes to

a doctor for treatment of an ailment implies that he is

agreeable to medical examination in the general sense.

This is implied consent and would encompass physical

examination (not intimate examination), palpation,

percussion, auscultation and routine sonography.

Implied consent (tacit consent) is the most common

variety and is generally accepted in the practice of a

family physician or consultant who generally

prescribers medicines after noting the history of the

patient and physical examination.

For other major diagnostic/therapeutic procedure

such as lumbar puncture, radiology endoscopy, laser

treatment, dye-induced tests, CLW suturing, FNAC, I/D

of abscess, CT Scan, MRI, etc. express written consent

should be obtained. It is advisable that Written Consent

should be obtained in presence of a dis-interested 3

rd

party. Consent should be taken in the patientřs own

language and it is vital that if the patient is incapable of

giving Consent, then Consent of guardian or person in

lawful charge of him should be taken. Many a time in

gynaecological cases it is observed that a gynaecologist

takes the consent of the husband and proceeds to

perform procedure on the wife. In the event of marital

disharmony the doctor is put to trememdous harassment,

as variety of charges including charge of being an

accessory to killing the baby, are leveled against the

Doctor. It is, therefore, advisable to ensure that Written

Consent of the patient is taken.

Informed consent is a part of the physicians duty to

disclosure. However, this duty has an exception. In the

event, the physician is of a considered opinion that, the

patient is in a highly disturbed condition or so anxious

that the information given would not be processed

rationally or that it would only cause significant

psychological harm then the doctor may choose not to

inform the patient about the treatment or procedure.

The other exception is where the patient prefers not to

be informed. These exceptions are known as

ŖTherapeutic Privilegeŗ.

A word of caution would be in order and a

physician seeking to exercise Therapeutic Privilege

would be well advised to discuss the matter with the

family physician of the patient. It is well known that

revelation of the risk may frighten off the patient from

beneficial treatment but at the same time the patient has

a valuable right of benefit of reasonable information. In

such an event a fine balance ought to be struck and law

always values the judgment and opinion of the treating

physician and would examine it on the anvil of the

condition and circumstances of the patient at the time

when the treatment was being administered or

procedure/investigation performed.

The three vital components of Informed Consent

are, (1) the capacity of the patient to contract, (ii)

complete information in comprehensive terms and (iii)

voluntary acceptance of the patient to undergo treatment

or procedure as prescribed. In case of medical

emergency, consent need not be obtained, the well-

being of the patient is paramount and hence medical

rather than legal consideration shall prevail. In fact

Section 92 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 specifically

declares that nothing is an offence by reason of any

harm which it may cause to a person for whose benefit

the act is done in good faith even without that personřs

consent if the circumstances are such that it is

impossible for that person to signify consent or if that

person is incapable of giving consent and has no

guardian or other person in lawful charge of him from

whom it is possible to obtain consent in time for the

thing to be done for his benefit. Law, therefore,

expressly declares that an act done in an emergency will

not be called in question for want of consent. In other

words emergency ratifies an act done for the benefit of a

person even in absence of a consent.

Besides Medical Emergencies the other situations

where consent need not be obtained are when

A person is unconscious

Immigrants

New admissions to prisons

Examination under Court Order-especially to

ascertain mental condition of the person

ordered to be examined.

Request by a police officer under Cr. P.C.

Section 53(1)

Members of armed forces

Persons handling food or dairy products.

For a proper and valid consent, a doctor would be

well advised to ensure that

1. The consent must be a free consent. That is, it must

not be obtained under coercion, undue influence,

misrepresentation, fraud or mistake.

2. The consent must be executed by parties having

capacity to enter into contracts. That is, they must

not be minors, they must not be of unsound mind,

unconscious or intoxicated.

3. In case of minor or person otherwise incapacitated

consent of guardian or person in lawful charge of

the patient can give consent.

4. The consent must be to do a lawful act and it must

not defeat any provisions of law. For example; a

free consent to terminate a 22 weeks pregnancy is

void ab-initio.

5. The consent must not be against ŘMoralityř or

ŘPublic Policyř. For example: Husband consenting

to inseminate donor semen in his wife who believes

the semen to be her husbandřs.

6. Unilaterally executed consents are void. Consents

being an agreement between two or more persons,

all concerned parties must execute the same.

Consent signed only by patients and not by the

doctor or his representatives is void ab-initio.

7. Consents duly witnessed are more dependable

legally, as the parties concerned can not

subsequently deny execution.

Children and Consent

In order to enter into a valid contract the person

should be competent to do so. Section 11 of the

Contract Act stipulates that every person who is of age

of majority and is of sound mind and is not disqualified

to contracting by any law to which he is subject is

competent to contract.

The Indian Majority Act, 1875 declares that every

person domiciled in India shall be deemed to have

attained majority when he has completed 18 years of

age. Thus a person who is 18 years of age and above,

who is mentally sound and conscious is competent to

contract. In the case of a minor the parents of the

minor, being the natural guardian or a guardian

appointed by a Court shall be the person competent to

contract for and on behalf of the minor.

Under Criminal Law, the Indian Penal Code, 1860

in Chapter IV has set out general exceptions to an

offence. Section 89 stipulates that an act done in good

faith for benefit of a person under 12 years of age or of

un-sound mind by consent either express or implied by

the guardian or other person having lawful charge is not

an offence by reason of any harm. The aforesaid

exception is not available if there is an intention to

cause death or grievous hurt. Section 90 of the said

Code further stipulates that a consent given under fear

of injury or mis-conception of fact would not be a valid

consent under the Code.

Medical confidentiality

Medical confidentiality is believed to be one of the

basic ethic for a physician since ancient time. It was

perhaps Hippocrates who first described medical

confidentiality as, Ŗ… whatsoever I shall see or hear in

the course of my profession, as well as outside my

profession in my intercourse with men, if it be what

should not be published abroad, I will never divulge

holding such things to be holy secretsŗ.

Presently, in the era of hi-tech information

technology this environment of confidentiality is fast

changing. The situation of one doctor, one patient and

one medical file belongs to the past. Patients records

have become computer based, linked to clinical

decisions making systems and are accessible to

subsequent health care providers irrespective of time

and place. Health data about individuals are among the

most sensitive types of personal information.

Computerized data bases of personally identifiable

information may be accessed, changed, viewed, copied,

used, disclosed or deleted more easily by more people

(both authorized and unauthorized) than paper based

records. As the access to patient record is not limited to

those involved in the health care delivery and patient

management, they can be retrived and used secondarily

for different purposes like: (a) education (classroom

teaching and conferences); (b) regulation (limitation,

post marketing surveillance and accreditation); (c)

commercial enterprises (development of biotechnology

and marketing strategies); (d) social services and child

protection (medical records of spouse or child abuse);

and (e) public health services (reports on disease

mortality and morbidity, partner notification and

surveillance). Since each of the searcher has different

aim of search on the vast amount of health and personal

information available on the information highway, there

is every likelihood of breach in privacy. For example,

millions of patients records are scrutinized (PBM)

companies that have overt financial interest in

manipulating prescribing practices. Patients are usually

not told that these entities have access to their records.

A survey may reveal that the patients would object if

this was brought to their knowledge.

Physicianřs Role in Medical Confidentiality

The sensitive nature of the medical information

makes it more deserving for special protection. The

duty to preserve confidentiality resides with the holder

of the record which may not be limited to a single

primary care physician alone. Medical files are never

free from undue access. The risk is more pertinent with

electronic patient file. This risk has potentials to disrupt

the fiduciary relationship between the patient and

doctor, rather than supporting it. Thus, the physician

who uses electronic files and e-mail must ensure

reasonable precautions to avoid exposing patientřs data

specially related to identity to unauthorized entities.

Moreover, physicians should caution patients against

using e-mail for those matters that patients themselves

would not wish to be available to payers, employers and

others.

Different countries have enacted laws to maintain

the communication privacy such as Electronic

Communications Privacy Act of USA, which also

includes electronic communication.

India is also among a dozen countries of world and

second in whole of Asia to have Information

Technology (IT) Act (cyber related law). The Act

which came in force on October 17, 2000 gives legal

sanctity to e-documents. Section 72 of the Act, that

deals with breach of confidentiality and privacy, states

ŖSave as otherwise provided in this act or any other law

for the time being in force, any person who, in

pursuance of any of the powers conferred under this

Act, rules or regulations made thereunder, has secured

access to any electronic record, book, register,

correspondence, information, document or other

material without the consent of the person concerned,

discloses such electronic record, book, register,

correspondence, information, document or other

material to any person, shall be punished with

imprisonment for a term which may extend to two

years, or with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees,

or with bothŗ. But, this act is also silent on the special

nature of medical confidentiality. Thus, till the time it is

incorporated in the Act, physicians should adhere to the

basic principles of medical confidentiality strictly in

order to avoid ethical as well as legal repercussions.

Abortion

The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act

1971: In order to understand the basis on which the

MTP Act is based, it is necessary to identify the two

main driving forces behind the Act, those being:

a) Those who were proponents of family planning and

population control and saw the legalization of

abortion as a potential way of lowering the birth

rate.

b) Those who were concerned with abortions being

conducted by non-qualified, untrained and ill-

equipped medical practitioners under unhygienic

conditions and therefore were concerned with the

health factor.

Hence, female foeticide was, at that point of time,

not considered an issue at all which justifies the fact that

not a single section in the entire Act deals specifically

and expressly with the problem. The objective of the

Act, as given at the onset of the Act itself, is essentially

confined to dealing with the termination of certain

pregnancies by registered practitioners and matters

connected therewith and incidental thereto and does not

extend beyond this.

Section 3 of this Act, which talks about when

pregnancies may be terminated by registered medical

practitioners, may be summed up as follows Ŕ

Ŗpregnancies can be terminated by registered medical

practitioners where the pregnancy is not more than

twelve weeks if the medical practitioner, or where the

pregnancy is more than twelve but less then twenty

weeks, atleast two medical practitioners are of the

opinion formed in good faith, that the continuance of the

pregnancy would involve a risk to the life of the

pregnant woman or grave injury to her physical or

mental health, or where there is a substantial risk that if

the child were born, it would suffer from such physical

or mental abnormalities as to be seriously handicapped.

Pregnancy of any woman who has not attained the age

of eighteen or who is eighteen but is mentally ill

(incorporated in place of lunatic by the 2002

Amendment), shall be carried out after obtaining the

consent of the guardian in writingŗ.

2

However, all these clauses may be mis-utilized by

doctors or the parents in the following ways:

Firstly, it is important to note, that the section

mentions that the registered medical practitioner must

act in good faith. This is a very vague notion and no

number of legislations can guarantee that a doctor is

acting in good faith, if his intention is to flout the law,

unless it is very obvious in the face of it. In a country

like India, where citizens abide or do not abide by laws

as per their wishes, where authorities expected to

maintain law and order may be bribed, and where the

medical profession has turned into a money minting

industry from what it was meant to be- a profession

rendering service to the society, some doctors do not

realize that their patientřs well-being is their top priority

and that whatever they do is to be done for the

maximum benefit of his patients, do not act in good

faith.

Secondly, it is to be kept in mind, that rape is an

evil, women have suffered not only in the hands of

outsiders and unknown people, but also in the hands of

family members and near relatives. However, very few

cases dealing with the second category have been

reported so far, because it tarnishes the family name.

Such circumstances are usually hushed up and the girl is

taken to shady hospitals, using unhygienic conditions to

abort the child. Looking at the clause from another

angle, a particular family may frame up such an incident

in order to get a female foetus aborted. Such a sensitive

issue as this would save them from having to face police

authorities because they would let the doctor know that

they want the whole incident to be kept under cover.

And the doctor understanding the gravity of the whole

situation would do his work as secretively as possible in

order to guard the privacy of his patient.

In a case, where a couple have taken certain

precautions to avoid future pregnancies and already

have children, but still have conceived, they are allowed

to have an abortion done. However, a close study of the

clause will show, that where a couple already have a girl

child and the woman has conceived another female

foetus, they may use this clause to get the foetus aborted

and their actions cannot really be questioned by police

authorities or doctors for it is exclusively their decision

whether to increase their family or not.

Furthermore, doctors reckon that these conditions

are more aggravated because the Medical Termination

of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, which was brought in to

protect a womanřs rights, is being misused by society

and the concerned parents often carry out the sex

determination tests in some clinic and get the abortion

done in another recognized clinic or hospital where the

reasons for abortion are not questioned. There are about

20,000 registered ultrasound clinics in the country and

several hundred unregistered ones, especially in rural

areas. Furthermore, in 2003, the AIIMS along with

WHO, ICMR and the Ministry of Family Welfare, felt

the need to launch the pill in the family welfare

programme as a safe alternative to surgical termination

of pregnancy. However, the administration of the pill

should only be under medical supervision with proper

back-up facilities for blood transfusion and MTP

services. This rules out self-medication and clandestine

administration of the pill as has been reported from

some parts of the country. This is a very important

aspect, which should be kept in mind, because more

often than not, due to the lack of stringent laws to check

such malpractices, people would abuse such a provision.

Pre-conception and Pre-natal Diagnostic

Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act 1994:

The most prominent feature of the amended Act seems

to be the inclusion of pre-conception sex selection

processes. This concept has been introduced very

recently to tackle the problem posed by US based

company Gen Select, who have introduced a method

called ŘFully Integrated Programmeř by which couples

can select the gender of their next child even before its

conception. Another important change introduced in the

amended Act is that the explanation of the terms

ŘGenetic Clinicř and ŘGenetic Laboratoryř in Sections

2(d) and (e) respectively have been made to include

even a vehicle which has an ultrasound machine, or a

scanner or an imaging machine or other equipment or a

portable equipment which can determine the sex of the

foetus. Though the 1994 Act had used the phrase Řor

any placeř in an attempt to include all such vehicles, the

amended Act, expressly speaks about them to be a part

of Genetic Clinics or Laboratory.

The term ŘSex Selectionř under Section 2(0) of the

Amended Act, has also been defined extensively and the

Act has also used the term Řparticular sexř in an attempt

to ensure that both male and female foeticides are made

a crime, though the presence of the former is rarely

anticipated in the Indian scenario.

The amended Act has also introduced Section 6 (c)

which tries to plut the loopholes created by Sections

6(a) and 6 (b) of the previous Act. While Section 6(a)

prohibits sex determination of the Řfoetusř only a person

who carries out sex determination tests on an Řembryoř

or a Řconceptusř, by whatever means would escape

liability under Sections 6(a) and 6(b). Section 6(c) has

been introduced to deal with this problem. Hence

Section 6(c) attempts to cover borderline cases. A shift

in the hierarchy with the creation of the State and Union

Territory Supervisory Boards, in addition to the Central

Supervisory Board existing under Section 7 and the

appropriate authority constituted under Section 17 might

help in catering to the overall supervisory functions and

a better monitoring of the entire scheme of

implementation of the Act. Section 22(2) of the

amended Act has tried to put an end to advertisements

in this regard, which most clinics do in order to attract

customers. It extends a ban on advertisements and also

has substantially increased the quantum of punishment

to deter the delinquents.

It is pertinent to note that the unamended 1994 Act,

under Chapter VI, Section 18, dealt with the grant of

registration to any Genetic Counselling Centre, Genetic

Laboratory or Genetic Clinics. No prenatal tests were

allowed to be conducted unless these places obtained

registration. However, in several parts of India, on

account of the laxity on the part of the State

Governments, there was rampant mushrooming of such

centers on vehicles, catering to the rural population at

affordable prices.

Lastly, it should be noted that the unamended

Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques Act 1994, curbed the

practice of sex determination tests using amniocentesis,

chorion biopsy and ultrasound. All these were non-

bailable offences under the Act. The amended Act

however, seeks to bring the issue of eugenics back by

the introduction of reproductive technologies and

medical advances in prenatal and neonatal care. The

Act justifies the use of prenatal diagnostic tests for the

purpose of detecting genetic abnormalities or metabolic

disorders or chromosomal abnormalities or certain

congenital malformations or sex linked disorders.

Euthanasia

Medical science has now acquired life supporting

systems and medications to extend life artificially for

long periods, even after the loss of brain activities and

the control of bodily functions. Today, many people

have a fear that they will be kept alive artificially in this

manner. This will cause great suffering to them as well

as to their near and dear ones. The decision to reject

such artificial treatment should be of the patient alone

and no one else. This decision of the patient constitutes

the act of Řeuthanasiař. Earlier this was called Řmercy

killingř. However, now, the term Ŗeuthanasiaŗ

encompasses acts from lethal injection to Ŗassistingŗ in

suicide; to withholding basic levels of care from non-

terminal patients. In all cases of euthanasia, the action

or omission is expressly intended to cause the death of a

person. Traditionally, persons suffering from a terminal

illness were allowed to die naturally. Under this

centuries-old ethic, patients are not obligated to use

extraordinary or heroic medical treatment that would

only prolong the dying process. Ordinary care and

treatment should be provided to all patients to sustain

their daily needs and comfort. When a person has

clearly reached their Ŗlast day,ŗ the focus of medical

treatment may be switched from curing to caring.

In the case of Euthanasia and Physician Assisted

Suicide, the countries that advocate Řmercy killingř are

Holland, Northern Provinces of Australia as well as

some states in the United States of America. The

Netherlands is the first country in the world to legalize

euthanasia. The bill allows doctors to kill patients with

terminal diseases who are suffering Ŗunbearably,ŗ if

they request it.

ŘRight to deathř is different from euthanasia.

Euthanasia means Řa good and peaceful deathř. The

term Řterminalř, as defined by medical experts, means a

disease that cannot be cured or has no remedy. In fact,

the final remedy is death. These terminally ill persons

should be permitted to assess the relief which is granted

by euthanasia. A practicing consultant, who is an expert

in that particular field of illness, must confirm the

terminal illness of the patient.

Euthanasia is like a Řwillř, made by a person when

he is hale and hearty, just as the will, which deals with

property and inheritance. Any person, who is

competent in the eyes of the law, should be allowed to

make a will. This will should be made in front of two

witnesses, stating his desire to die in case of terminal

illness. He should also state that his decision can be

revoked by him at his own will at any given time in the

future. It should not be binding on him that he must

exercise his right to die in case of a terminal illness. He

should have the option of revoking such a decision at

any given point in the future. A person should be given

the choice to decide the time and place of his death.

The medical profession holds that the life of a

patient has to be saved. However, in cases of a terminal

illness, medical professionals do not prolong the life of

a person. Instead they prolong the death of the person.

One cannot say that since the Constitution of India says

that Article 21 is the right to life of an individual, he

must be kept alive through all the sufferings that he has

to undergo throughout the period till death releases him

from his ordeal. Sufferings can be physical, mental as

well as monetary. Euthanasia can be considered to be a

solution to get rid of such sufferings. It can be of the

following two types:

Active euthanasia

Passive euthanasia

Under the active form of euthanasia, giving the

patient a lethal injection after his consent can eliminate

the sufferings. Under passive euthanasia, the doctor

plays a passive role. He can be granted with immunity

against criminal proceedings. Hence, this cannot be

termed as a Řphysician assisted suicideř.

Issues Involved Under Euthanasia are:

1. Whether there can be a misuse of the practice-

wherein property matters and inheritance come to

light. This can be a hindrance to the spirit of

euthanasia.

2. Life is precious and here the ethical principles of

life are involved.

In case of minors or mentally retarded persons, the

will of the parents can be taken into account. The

earlier mentioned procedure for consent will remain

constant. In the Jain religion, there is provision that

considers euthanasia as legal and this is called Santhara.

As the law now stands, physicians and surgeons who

wish, in the interest of compassion and humanity, to

respond to the patientřs wishes iun a suitable case, are

inhibited from acting in accordance with their

conscience for fear that they might be breaking the law

of the land of which they are loyal citizens. It is also

possible that a doctor in such a predicament may be

exposed to blackmail. It is therefore necessary that

doctors, who act with care and humanity, must be

protected from prosecution and persecution.

The Indian Constitution says that the ŘRight to Dieř

is not a fundamental right under Article 21. Whether

the right to die is included in Article 21 of Constitution

came up for consideration for the first time before the

Bombay High Court in The State of Maharashtra v.

Maruti Shripathi Dubal [(1987) Cr LJ 549]. The Court

held that the right to life, guaranteed by Article 21

includes the right to die. Consequently, the Court struck

down Section 309 IPC, which provides punishment for

the attempt to commit suicide as unconstitutional. The

judges felt that the desire to die is not unnatural, but

merely abnormal and uncommon. They listed several

circumstances in which people may wish to end their

lives, including disease, cruel or unbearable condition of

life, and a sense of shame or disenchantment with life.

They held that everyone should have the freedom to

dispose of his life as and when he desires. The Supreme

Court in P. Rathinam v. Union of India [(1994) 3 SCC

394] upheld the Bombay High Courtřs decision.

However, in the case of Gian Kour v. State of Punjab

[(1996) 2 SCC 648], a five judge Constitution Bench of

the Court overruled the P. Rathinamřs case and held that

ŘRight to Lifeř, under Article 21 of the Constitution,

does not include ŘRight to Dieř or ŘRight to be killed.ř

The Right to Die is inherently inconsistent with the

Right to Life.

The Court held that the Right to Life is a natural

right, embodied in Article 21. However, suicide is an

unnatural termination or extinction of life and,

therefore, incompatible and inconsistent with the

concept of Right to Life. Supporters of euthanasia are

of the opinion that being in a permanent comatose and

helpless condition was not at all beneficial to the

patient. It was held that this concept was unrelated to

the ŘPrinciple of Sanctity of Lifeř or the Řright to live

with Dignityř. The Court said that this argument was of

on assistance to determine the scope of Article 21 of the

Constitution while deciding whether the guarantee of

ŘRight to Lifeř includes the Řright to dieř.

The court made it clear that the ŘRight to Life,ř

including the right to live with human dignity, would

include the existence of such a right to a dignified life

up to the point of death, including a dignified procedure

of death. This may include the right of a dying man to

die with dignity, when his life is ebbing out. However,

the ŘRight to Dieř with dignity at the end of life is not to

be confused with the ŘRight to Dieř an unnatural death,

curtailing the natural span of life. The Court reiterated

that the argument to support the views of permitting the

termination of life in such cases (e.g. a dying man, who

is terminally ill and is totally dependant on life support

systems), by accelerating the process of natural death,

when it was certain and imminent, was not available to

interpret article 21 to include the right to curtail the

natural span of life.

Euthanasia can never be implemented in a country

where there is a clash of ideologies. There has been a

lot of debate on this topic over the past few decades.

The right to life of an individual is certainly the most

fundamental right. Yet in extreme cases, it should not

be binding on the individual to exercise that right in

cases of agony. Suicide should not be confused with

euthanasia. The former is a narrower term when

compared with euthanasia. In Greek, euthanasia means

a Řgood deathř. This policy of good death has been

implemented in the Netherlands. Other countries will

have to decide for themselves. Maybe, the Dutch style

of an open policy is the best way to deal with such a

delicate and ambiguous concept.

Patientsř Rights: It is often overlooked that

patients have the common law right to refuse any

medical treatment. A doctor who treats a patient against

his or her express wishes can be charged with assault. It

would be wise to educate people as to their right to

refuse treatment. There is no need to convert this well-

established legal principle into legislation. Regardless

of the intention of Ŗright to dieŗ or Ŗaid in dyingŗ laws,

they could very easily open the door to active

euthanasia. In the present climate of opinion, it is easy

to imagine a doctor giving a lethal dose of pain-killing

drug and then claiming that death was the best way to

eliminate physical suffering. If the doctor could also

show that the patient had requested the lethal dosage,

the court might well interpret the law in the doctorřs

favor. Many do not find the prospect of legal voluntary

active euthanasia in any way alarming. But two things

should give us pause. First, as the Canadian study on

the same will show, most health care professionals

endorse the patientřs right to refuse medical treatment,

but oppose legalizing active euthanasia. The

professionals recognize that if pain is controlled, as it

can be in virtually all cases, very few terminally ill

people ask to be put to death. Second, experience in

Holland tells us that voluntary Euthanasia can quickly

become involuntary euthanasia.

The Alternative to Euthanasia: The alternative to

legalized euthanasia is not extraordinary. The

alternatives are appropriate medical care Ŕ including 1)

the withdrawal of treatment upon patient request, or if

that treatment serves no therapeutic purpose; and 2)

dispensing drugs as necessary to control pain. No

doctors, laws, or organizations oppose ceasing care

when the time to die has arrived.

Conclusion

I hope my submission has amply highlighted the

importance of medical law and medical ethics in the

balanced, sustained and harmonious development of

medical profession in our country. But at the end of the

day the fact, however, remains that mere formulation of

laws cannot be a sufficient condition for the regulation

of medical profession in social interests. In a class

divided society like that in India, many of the laws

geared to social welfare cannot be adequately enforced

because of the inaccessibility of the common multitude

to the law courts. Hence, I feel that along with the

development of a medical law regime, there should be a

consciousness raising exercise within the medical

profession itself so that there can be adequate self-

restraint on the part of the medical practitioners

themselves. In ensuring this, a constant dialogue

between the medical practitioners and other sections of

the civil society is a must. From this perspective

holding of orations like this can serve a fruitful purpose.

References

1. Advocate Anoop K. Kaushal, Medical Negligence

and Legal Remedies with special reference to

Consumer Protection Law (Second Edition: New

Delhi: 2000) p.2

2. Certain explanations accompany this particular

Sections:

a) In a pregnancy caused by rape, the anguish caused

by such pregnancy shall be presumed to constitute a

grave injury to the pregnant woman.

b) Where any pregnancy occurs due to the failure of

any device or method used by the woman or her

husband for the purpose of limiting the number of

children, the anguish caused by such unwanted

pregnancy may be presumed to constitute a grave

injury to the mental health of the pregnant person.

c) In determining whether the continuance of the

pregnancy would involve the above-mentioned risk,

account may be taken of the womanřs actual

reasonable foreseeable environment.

========================================

13. SOCRATES Ŕ a man for our times

(He was condemned to death for telling the ancient

Greeks things they didnřt want to hear, but his

views of consumerism and trial by media are just as

relevant today.) HUGHES, Bettany

(The Hindu, 19.10.2010)

Two thousand four hundred years ago, one man

tried to discover the meaning of life. His search was so

radical, charismatic ad counterintuitive that he become

famous throughout the Mediterranean. Men Ŕ

particularly young men Ŕ flocked to hear him speak.

Some were inspired to imitate his ascetic habits. They

wore their hair long, their feet bare, their cloaks torn.

He charmed a city; soldiers, prostitutes, merchants,

aristocrats Ŕ all would come to listen. As Cicero

eloquently put it, ŖHe brought philosophy down from

the skies.ŗ For close on half a century this man was

allowed to philosophise unhindered on the streets of his

hometown. But then things started to turn ugly. His

glittering city-state suffered horribly in foreign and civil

wars. The economy crashed; year in, year out, men

came home dead; the population starved; the political

landscape was turned upside down. And suddenly the

philosopherřs bright ideas, his eternal questions, his

eccentric ways, started to jar. And so, on a spring

morning in 399 BC, the first democratic court in the

story of mankind summoned the 70-year-old

philosopher to the dock on two charges: disrespecting

the cityřs traditional gods and corrupting the young.

The accused was found guilty. His punishment: state-

sponsored suicide, courtesy of a measure of hemlock

poison in his prison cell.

The man was Socrates, the philosopher from

ancient Athens and arguably the true father of western

thought. Not bad, given his humble origins. The son of

a stonemason, born around 469BC, Socrates was

famously odd. In a city that made a cult of physical

beauty (an exquisite face was thought to reveal an inner

nobility of spirit) the philosopher was disturbingly ugly.

Socrates had a pot-belly, a weird walk, swiveling eyes

and hairy hands. As he grew up in a suburb of Athens,

the city seethed with creativity Ŕ he witnessed the Greek

miracle at first-hand.

But when poverty-stricken Socrates (he taught in

the streets for free) strode through the cityřs central

marketplace, he would harrumph provocatively, ŖHow

many things I donřt need!ŗ Whereas all religion was

public in Athens, Socrates seemed to enjoy a peculiar

kind of private piety, relying on what he called his

Ŗdaimonionŗ, his Ŗinner voiceŗ. This Ŗdemonŗ would

come to him during strange episodes when the

philosopher stood still, staring for hours. We think now

he probably suffered from catalepsy, a nervous

condition that causes muscular rigidity.

Putting aside his unshakable position in the global

roll-call of civilisationřs great and good, why should we

care about this curious, clever, condemned Greek?

Quite simply because Socratesřs problems were our

own. He lived in a city-state that was for the first time

working out what role true democracy should play in

human society. His home-town Ŕ successful, cash-rich

Ŕ was in danger of being swamped by its own vigorous

quest for beautiful objects, new experiences, foreign

coins.

Fundamental questions

The philosopher also lived through (and fought in )

debilitating wars, declared under the banner of demos-

kratia Ŕ people power, democracy. The Pelo-ponnesian

conflict of the fifth century against Sparta and her allies

was criticized by many contemporaries as being

Ŗwithout just causeŗ. Although some in the region

willingly took up this new idea of democratic politics,

others were forced by Athens to love it at the point of a

sword. Socrates questioned such blind obedience to an

ideology. ŖWhat is the point,ŗ he asked, Ŗof walls and

warships and glittering statues if the men who build

them are not happy?ŗ What is the reason for living life,

other than to love it? For Socrates, the pursuit of

knowledge was as essential as the air we breathe.

Rather than a brainiac grey-beard, we should think of

him as his contemporaries knew him: a bustling,

energetic, wine-swilling, man-loving, vigorous, pug-

nosed, sword-bearing war-veteran: a citizen of the

world, a man of the streets.

According to his biographers Plato and Xenophon,

Socrates did not just search for the meaning of life, but

the meaning of our own lives. He asked fundamental

questions of human existence. What makes us happy?

What makes us good? What is virtue? What is love?

What is fear? How should we best live our lives?

Socrates saw the problems of the modern world coming;

and he would certainly have something to say about

how we live today.

He was anxious about the emerging power of the

written word over face-to-face contact. The Athenian

agora was his teaching room. Here he would jump on

unsuspecting passersby, as Xenophon records. ŖOne

day Socrates met a young man on the streets of Athens.

ŘWhere can bread be found?ř asked the philosopher.

The young man responded politely. ŘAnd where can

wine be found?ř asked Socrates. With the same

pleasant manner, the young man told Socrates where to

get wine. ŘAnd where can the good and the noble be

found?ř then asked Socrates. The young man was

puzzled and unable to answer. ŘFollow me to the streets

and learn,ř said the philosopher.ŗ Whereas immediate,

personal contact helped foster a kind of honesty,

Socrates argued that strings of words could be

manipulated, particularly when disseminated to a mass

market. ŖYou might think words spoke as if they had

intelligence, but if you question them they always say

only one thing … every word … when ill-treated or

unjustly reviled always needs its father to protect it,ř he

said.

When psychologists today talk of the danger for the

next generation of too much keyboard and texting time,

Socrates would have flashed one of his infuriating ŖI

told you soŗ smiles. Our modern passion for fact-

collection and box-ticking rather than a deep

comprehension of the world around us would have

horrified him too. What was the point, he said, of

cataloguing the world without loving it? He went

further: ŖLove is the one thing I understand.ŗ The

televised U.K. general election debates earlier this year

would also have given pause. Socrates was withering

when it came to a polished rhetorical performance. For

him a powerful, substance-less argument was a

disgusting thing: rhetoric without truth was one of the

greatest threats to the Ŗgoodŗ society.

Interestingly, the TV debate experiment would have

seemed old hat. Public debate and political competition

(agon was the Greek word, which gives us our Ŗagonyŗ)

were the norm in democratic Athens. Every male

citizen over the age of 18 was a politician. Each could

present himself in the open-air assembly up on the Pnyx

to raise issues for discussion or to vote. Through a

complicated system of lots, ordinary men might be

made the equivalent of heads of state for a year; interior

minister or foreign minister for the space of a day.

Those who preferred a private to a public life were

labeled idiotes (hence our word idiot).

Socrates died when Golden Age Athens Ŕ an

ambitious, radical, visionary city-state Ŕ had triumphed

as a leader of the world, and then over-reached herself

and begun to crumble. His unusual personal piety, his

guru-like attraction to the young men of the city,

suddenly seemed to have a sinister tinge. And although

Athens adored the notion of freedom of speech (the city

even named one of its warships Parrhesia after the

concept), the population had yet to resolve how far

freedom of expression ratified a freedom to offend.

A scapegoat

Socrates was, I think, a scapegoat for Athensřs

disappointment. When the city was feeling strong, the

quirky philosopher could be tolerated. But, overrun by

its enemies, starving, and with the ideology of

democracy itself in question, the Athenians took a more

fundamentalist view. A confident society can ask

questions of itself; when it is fragile, it fears them.

Socratesř famous aphorism Ŗthe unexamined life is not

worth livingŗ was, by the time of his trial, clearly

beginning to jar.

After his death, Socratesř ideas had a prodigious

impact on both western and eastern civilization. His

influence in Islamic culture is often overlooked Ŕ in the

Middle East and North Africa, from the 11

th

century

onwards, his ideas were said to refresh and nourish,

Ŗlike … the purest water in the midday heatŗ. Socrates

was nominated one of the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, his

nickname ŖThe Sourceŗ. So it seems a shame that, for

many, Socrates has become a remote, lofty kind of a

figure.

When Socrates finally stood up to face his charges

in front of his fellow citizens in a religious court in the

Athenian agora, he articulated one of the great pities of

human society. ŖIt is not my crimes that will convict

me,ŗ he said. ŖBut instead, rumour, gossip; the fact that

by whispering together you will persuade yourselves

that I am guilty.ŗ As another Greek author, Hesiod, put

it, ŖKeep away from the gossip of people. For rumour

[the Greek pheme, via fama in Latin gives us our word

fame] is an evil thing by nature sheřs a light weight to

lift up, yes, but heavy to carry and hard to put down

again. Rumour never disappears entirely once people

have indulged her.ŗ Trial by media, by pheme, has

always had a horrible potency. It was a slide in public

opinion and the uncertainty of a traumatized age that

brought Socrates to the hemlock. Rather than follow the

example of his accusers, we should perhaps honour

Socratesř exhortation to Ŗknow ourselvesŗ, to be

individually honest, to do what we, not the next man,

knows to be right. Not to hide behind the hatred of a

herd, the roar of the crowd, but to aim, hard as it might

be towards the Ŗgoodŗ life.

========================================

14. THE HAHNEMANNIAN PROCEDURE:

INDIVIDUALIZATION

Jose G.GARCIA, M.D.

(From the Homœopathic Recorder, October, 1941)

Without the slightest doubt the practice of medicine

carries a heavy responsibility. The biological field is

slippery and requires a firm footing so as not to fall

down pitifully; there is no other scientific education that

requires so much sharpening of the senses. Medicine,

particularly, takes pleasure in hiding the true facts of the

phenomena, leading us to the darkness of error if we do

not make use of logic as a secure and faithful guide to

our reasoning. Homœopathy occupies a special place in

the field of the biological sciences. In it, truth appears

to us with an intense and brilliant light, but only if we

make great efforts to discover her. The truth within the

homœopathic doctrine does not present itself naked and

clear to the first who tries to lift the veil which envelope

it; at first we believe ourselves before a paradox and it

looks like unpardonable puerility to fix our attention on

a subject which seems to contain all the ear marks of

foolishness. Pretty soon, however, we realize that the

ingenuity was in ourselves and that its sources came

from our ignorance. Then comes the day in which our

eyes are opened and we accept as a uniformity of Nature

the fact that, in order to effect the phenomena of cure, it

is necessary to fill the requisite of homœopathic relation

as an indispensable and absolute condition, for the Laws

of Nature do not admit exceptions. If they did, they

would not be laws and more, and all this admirable

harmony in creation would immediately disappear. The

mind of man is incapable of visualizing the spectacle

which the Universe would present if on a given moment

it were to escape from the control of the Natural Laws,

for, consciously, or unconsciously, we always try to

adjust our images and representations to the inexorable

law of what we judge to be Ŗnaturalŗ. If the

uniformities of Nature stopped being anything but real

and positive, our reason, deprived of the precious

support constituted by them, would oscillate and

instantly vanish.

As the study of medicine is carried on and

Homœopathy unveils itself before our eyes, we more

easily perceive her great beauty, and soon enough the

results will confirm that which theory has been building

up in our minds. But how many deceiving roads we are

liable to follow while yet on the open road of

Homœopathy! Obeying the law of least resistance,

avoiding the pain which every exaggerated effort

involves, we run the risk of following the easy and

pleasant roads, the roads to which laziness, apathy and

occasionally vanity too, lead us. On reaching the gates

of Homœopathy, we are often overtaken by a great

weariness, and believing that the results of our efforts

have many merits and deserve high praise, we feel we

have the right to a rest. This is a dangerous rest that

may turn into a sleep which it is difficult to wake in

time. Many homœopaths, after the long pilgrimage

from the field of common medicine, reach the gates of

HAHNEMANNřs structure and content themselves with

only enjoying a lodging allured only by exteriorities.

They know the law, basis and foundation of the

doctrine, and this they believe to be sufficient to

exercise their practice, which satisfies them because the

results are far superior to those the ordinary practice

allotted them.

But the variety of pathological cases that come to

us in the search of the proper treatment requires

something more than the simple application of the Law

of Similars. Complying with this requisite is much, but

not enough. Our practice is impregnated with errors,

bad procedures, vices, etc., etc., which we could justify

with difficulty if we were compelled to do so. We boast

about having a complete scientific doctrine, but many

times our practice shows a sad disparity between the

ideal and the real. It often happens that we believe, in

good faith and with deplorable ingenuity, that we are

homœopaths, but, to be really meritorious, in an exact

and complete way, of this honorary title means a task

which requires enormous sacrifices. HAHNEMANN

was very strict, and with good reasons. It is necessary

that we make a minute examination of our professional

conduct before declaring publicly that we are

homœopaths. HAHNEMANN cautioned us

sententiously: ŖIf the physicians do not practice

carefully that which I teach, do not permit them to call

themselves my disciples, and above all, do not let them

shield themselves with the hope that their treatments

will be crowned by success.ŗ

To pretend that, in order to become a homœopath, it

suffices to prescribe the special remedies of the

homœopathic school in the various cases of disease, is a

great error, alas, very common and only explainable

because, we must acknowledge it, we forget the original

sources of our knowledge as homœopaths. The

Organon and Chronic Diseases of HAHNEMANN

should once more take the first place in our mind where

many physicians have displaced them, to put in their

stead all this enormous production of modern works on

medicine which, generally, only gives a knowledge of

relative utility and which, as Dr. Pierre SCHMIDT

expresses himself to pertinently, hardly give only Ŗa

varnish of knowledgeŗ.

Without the careful reading of the ŖThe Chronic

Diseasesŗ it is really impossible to solve this

tremendous and daily problem produced by chronic

maladies, about which HAHNEMANN says:

It never happens that they are conquered by

the energy of a robust constitution, yield to

the most sanitary regime, the most regulated

way of living, or that they extinguish

themselves; on the contrary, they, without

pause, get worse with the years, till the end

of life; taking the form of more grievous

symptoms. (Chronic Diseases).

The Hahnemannian concept of chronic diseases

differs from that which the allopathic school sustains.

In reality all the maladies are chronic since all of them

develop through the element of time. To

HAHNEMANN chronic maladies differ from the acute

ones in that the latter have within themselves a natural

tendency to cure, while the others, if left alone, will

accompany the individual till his death. The cases of

healing which sometimes can be observed without the

aid of the similar remedy are not real and positive.

Frequently, in such cases, the illness has only taken on

another aspect and thanks to this change permit the

superficially minded to harbor the belief that they have

accomplished a cure, a belief pretty soon belied by the

reality; the patient suffers again and now from another

organ, nearly always more important, which has to

suffer the new onslaught of the undermining forces of

life. The physician who has not been a homœopath in

treating such a patient consoles himself and the sufferer

with the explanation that it is a question of a new

illness, different from the one he Ŗcuredŗ which he has

to fight with new resources of the art. If physician and

patient are Ŗfortunateŗ enough to effect another change,

it is only because the unhappy patient descends one

more step and is nearer to the final days of his

existence. After one of these tragic changes Ŗthere is

no difficulty in recognizing,ŗ says HAHNEMANN,

Ŗthat the new malady equally has its source in the old

existing affliction and cannot fail to be part of a much

larger entity.ŗ

If we forget these teachings from HAHNEMANN

we are only capable of solving clinical problems of

medium importance. Most certainly we will often be

able to handle an acute illness, making it follow the

simplest road and even cure it with surprising

promptness, but we should not forget that when the

organism is ill, it is nearly always because in its

innermost parts there exist inclinations and morbid

predispositions, creative and inexhaustible sources of

the polymorphism which pathology assumes. Without

the correction of the deep chronic disease we will not

be able to effect a lasting restoration to health.

HAHNEMANN gives us ample and precise advice

about how to treat chronic diseases and only by

following his teachings step by step shall we be able to

demonstrate the enormous power of Homœopathy as a

restorer of this invaluable gift of Nature built up by

complete health. ŖHe who follows these teachings with

the utmost care,ŗ says HAHNEMANN, Ŗwill be the

physician who obtains the greatest success.ŗ And he

adds: ŖThe confidence of the people has brought to me

patients of all classes, from neighboring countries and

even from far-off lands. Do you wish to obtain the

same success? Then, imitate me frankly and loyally.ŗ

(Lesser Writings)

The white sugar tablets do not signify or identify

Homœopathy. Many people say, ŖI have tried

Homœopathy with no satisfactory resultŗ, alluding to

the fact that they have taken tablets or globules of the

shape and aspect of those which the homœopathic

school habitually uses. To the people in general, the

powders, globules, tablets and spoonfuls of clear water

make Homœopathy. Unfortunately, it is the same way

with many physicians who call themselves

homœopaths. Nothing is more difficult than being a

real homœopath. ŖI have a homœopathic remedyŗ, we

often say, referring to such or such a patient; but how

many times we were allopaths when making that

prescription! We have wandered so far from the

simillimum that our pretended remedy enters the open

field of Allopathy. In accordance with

HAHNEMANNřs exigencies it is not enough to

prescribe the special remedies of the homœopathic

school in order to consider ourselves his disciples. Nor

is it enough to use the repertory daily and be guided by

it in all cases. Nor does it suffice to assign proper value

to the symptoms, classifying them judiciously. Being

able to find the remedy in accordance with the Law of

Similars is not sufficient. Nor can we look to ourselves

as accomplished homœopaths by the fact of exclusively

using high or low potencies. In order to be a

homœopath it is necessary that we follow the precise

instructions which HAHNEMANN gave us for the

treatment of the sick. If we do not adjust our practice

exactly to his teachings we have no right to expect the

brilliant results which the doctrine put in his hands, or

in those of HERING and KENT, because, when they

put it into practice it always proved to be most efficient.

HAHNEMANN asks us before repulsing his doctrine,

to submit it to a proof, and says: (Lesser Writings)

ŖHomœopathy solely turns to the verdict of experience.

Repeat the tests, repeat them carefully and

conscientiously and you will find them confirming

the doctrine at each step.ŗ And he adds: ŖIf

everything the homœopathic doctrine promises, after

having faithfully followed it, does not come true, if it

does not prove itself efficient, even notably so, then we

shall, by common consent, declare Homœopathy to be

false.ŗ

To get an idea of HAHNEMANNřs procedure let

us make some considerations, even if superficial, about

its most important points. We shall consider, in the first

place, that which the homœopathic school understands

by individualization. ŖWhat distinguishes

HAHNEMANNřs school from all other schools,

consists in that we individualize, while the others do

not,ŗ says Sir John WEIR. The allopathic school

claims to also individualize, but one cannot call

individualization the cataloguing of the individuals by

groups, and thus, for instance, the allopath distinguishes

a group of patients with liver and kidney insufficiency

to whom he does not administer the arsenicals in

accordance with the classical form in which it is used in

the treatment of Syphilis, on account of the risk they

would run in submitting them to this cure; if the

allopath feels compelled to administer quinine sulphate

to a woman, he watches carefully whether she is

pregnant or not; he divides his patients into groups of

various ages, for he knows that in order to obtain the

same effect, it is necessary to administer different doses

of Ipecac or Belladonna as the case might be, to a boy

two years old or to a young man twenty years of age.

This is not individualizing. Proceeding thus we do not

distinguish one individual from the other. To pretend

that such is a case of individualization is like pretending

we have individualized a recruit when saying he

belongs to regiment No.13, for instance, or that we have

individualized a citizen when discovering that his name

is Smith, for there are many soldiers belonging to the

same regiment, just as there are a great number of

citizens with the same name.

HAHNEMANN does not proceed so coarsely. To

him the patients differ one from another by their

character, by their affections, by their desires and

aversions, by the defective way of reacting physically

and mentally to the influence of their environment; by

the cry of protest from the human organism which

indicates there is no perfect adjustment between him

and the environment in which he lives, that is, by his

special way of becoming ill, by his special way of

suffering. The subjective symptoms for which the

noblest part of the nervous system intervene in its

perception and valorization, constitute the most

precious material in individualizing. The objective

symptoms, on the other hand, are of much more limited

value and only become apparent when the disease has

advanced in such a way that the tissues have reached

the point of suffering such transformations about which

pathological anatomy is concerned; it is then that the

tumour appears, or that the murmur in Endocarditis

becomes evident; Ankylosis sets in; the liver gets

scirrhus and atrophies, the lung is full of tubercles, etc.,

etc. The sudden changes of discoloration, the

modifications in the diameter of the pupils, the fan-like

motion of the nostrils, etc., are also objective

symptoms, although when they are just beginning to

show they do not necessarily indicate deep anatomical

modifications and are therefore of great value for

individualization.

From HAHNEMANNřs point of view there is a

distinct difference between general and particular

symptoms. The general symptoms are those which

refer to the person in his totality and to HAHNEMANN

and KENT they are those which have to lead us to the

group of remedies amongst which one has to find the

Simillimum. The particular symptoms are those which

refer to a part or an organ of the patient. It is easy to

realize that, logically, the general symptoms will be of

much greater importance than the particular ones,

because they indicate how the individual suffers in his

totality. But unfortunately the particular symptoms so

intensely draw the attention of the patient that the

physician often fixes his own on the same symptom,

disregarding the patientřs general way of reacting. The

result is that he succeeds in improving or in making

disappear the local trouble, leaving the morbid

potencies of that organism untouched. Soon the patient

again requires our services, for, once more, he suffers

from the same trouble, although it may be on another

location and that because we did not administer his

remedy, his chronic remedy, his constitutional remedy;

the homœopathicity of our first prescription was only

partial and we cured only partially; we individualized,

if it can be called thus, but only on the organ which

suffered most. This therapy, useful in acute diseases,

has little or no value at all in chronic cases or in acute

diseases, has little or no value at all in chronic cases or

in acute diseases, with deep and marked roots. Still it is

necessary to make one exception: among the particular

symptoms there might be some of those which

HAHNEMANN calls Ŗrare, singular and

characteristicŗ, which are peculiar to the patient,

distinguishing him from the rest, and due to this fact we

must consider them among the most important.

Frequently the characteristic symptoms serve us as

guides to find the remedy, but if we abuse the we would

not succeed in giving our patients all the benefits which

Homœopathy, if faithfully followed, is capable of

giving; in chronic diseases the characteristics assume

much less importance than in acute ones. The language

of chronic suffering is more complicated, lacks that

clearness and precision of the acute one and the

characteristic symptom hides itself, making the

selection difficult. Thus, then, in chronic cases, it is

better to abandon the hope of finding the remedy by

way of the characteristic symptoms; it is necessary to

take the case in its totality, judiciously classifying the

symptoms in the following order: First, the general

symptoms (general aggravation from change of

weather, cold or hot; in the open air; in a closed room;

standing, sitting or lying down; desires for or aversions

to food, etc.) Immediately after that we have to fix our

attention on mental symptoms, so important for the

correct selection. The mind is a perfect registrator of

the slightest alterations in the physiology or the

morphology of the organs, and thus, the symptoms of

this class range themselves in an immediate second

place, which makes them come up to almost an even

place with the general symptoms. We must investigate

these symptoms with the utmost care in order not to

produce an unpleasant reaction from the patient, if we

directly ask him whether he is jealous or inclined to

weep, before gaining his confidence, thus avoiding

giving him the impression that such are only silly

questions. Particular symptoms should be considered at

last for instance, the catarrhal discharges, the hardening

of such or such an organ or tissue, heartburn,

hoarseness, chronic enlargement of the tonsils, etc., etc.

Symptoms and signs that, when they do not carry the

stamp of the particular, are of little use in regard to the

prescription, for they do not individualize and

frequently only serve to get us lost, inducing us to

proceed allopathically. This is what happens when,

seeing the enlarged veins in a leg, we prescribe without

further investigations Hamamelis or Pulsatilla;

Aesculus for Hemorrhoids; Baryta carbonica for

chronic enlargement of the tonsils, etc. This is not

Homœopathy. In these cases there only exists a

relation of affinity between the remedy and the diseased

organ and we have not been given the trust of treating

only the enlarged tonsils, but a patient with enlarged

tonsils. KENT mentions, for this particular condition,

thirty-two remedies, and it may well be that the remedy

of our patient is not to be found in this list. SCHMIDT

of Geneva, relates a brilliant case of curing some

Varices of the lower limbs with Magnesia carbonica,

notwithstanding that in turning the leaves of KENTřs

Repertory, we will find that he does not mention this

remedy as useful for the correction of this condition of

the lower limbs; but Dr. SCHMIDT was guided by the

general and mental symptoms of the patient. Indeed,

that which interests us is the sick person and to discover

in what way he manifests his deficient fitting with the

environment, for when this is lacking, when this

deficient in the adaptation prolongs itself, the

modifications in the morphology of the organs establish

themselves and it is then that the pathologist becomes

active. Once the definite damage has been established,

the end results Ŕ as KENT calls them Ŕ may make the

services of the surgeon necessary.

Our role as physicians Ŗconsists (HAHNEMANN

said it apparently with great simplicity) in restoring

health to the sick, which is what we call curing.ŗ In

order to perform this task it is first of all necessary to

individualize and to do so with precision, according to

what HAHNEMANN and KENT taught us; thus we

will have a firm basis for reaching the simillimum. If

we are fortunate enough to determine the remedy with

exactness, we will only have gone half the way, for it is

not enough to arrive at the diagnosis of the remedy, but

it is imperative to know how to administer the remedy.

In the fundamental works of Homœopathy we find

precise instructions about these delicate points. KENT

has gone into detail about some of them and in this lies

his principal merit, having revived and insisted on that

which HAHNEMANN taught, thus becoming his most

distinguished commentator. When some European

homœopaths, especially French and German, speak

about the ŖKentiansŗ they only reveal their ignorance of

HAHNEMANNřs works, for KENTřs teachings do not

depart from HAHNEMANNřs. He himself has said, ŖIt

has always seemed strange to me hearing people say

that I meant to produce a diversion from

HAHNEMANNřs teachings. I have simply tried to

explain what they signify and how to put them into

practice after a hundred years. I made no discoveries.

There is nothing that I can claim to be of my

invention.ŗ

When, after careful mental work, we have reached

the diagnosis of the remedy, great difficulties are still to

be overcome as far as the best way to administer the

remedy is concerned and how to give the exact value

and to interpret the language of the sick organism,

stimulated by the specific which is the homœopathic

remedy. Then we must emphasize the fact and must

justify the necessity of the unique remedy; we must also

consider the delicate problem of the dosage and its

repetition in accordance with the response of the

patientřs organism and should consider as well the

delicate problem of the almost always present

handicaps which render the cure more difficult.

To discuss this most important subject is not a

matter to be limited to the narrowness of one paper, but

must be left open for further study.

Monterry, N.L., Mexico. [Read by title before I.H.A.

Bureau of Philosophy, June 19, 1941].

=======================================

15. On The Best Method Of Studying And Teaching

Materia Medica.

HUGHES, Richard, BRIGHTON, England

(From the Hahnemannian Monthly, July, 1894)

(Read before the American Institute of

Homœopathy, Denver, 1894)

I am pleased to respond, as far as possible, to the

questions asked of Ŗstudents and teachers of

homœopathic Materia Medica the world overŗ by the

section on that subject of the American Institute of

Homœopathy. I say Ŗas far as possibleŗ, because

several of the inquiries made---as Nos.II.c. and IV.----

address teachers only, and this I am not and never have

been. It may be said that my MANUAL of

PHARMACODYNAMICS, in its editions from the

third onwards, has taken the form of lectures. True, but

these are of the post-graduate type. They assume, in

their hearers, a knowledge of the ordinary action and

uses of drugs, and discuss rather than inform concerning

them. The question now before us is, how students in

homœopathic colleges shall be taught; how, to minds

presumably ignorant of the whole subject, such

knowledge shall be imparted and such methods of study

recommended as shall furnish them with ŖMateria

Medicaŗ indeed, the material wherewith the medical

practitioner goes forth supplied for his combat with

disease. From any practical experience as such a

teacher I cannot speak, but as a student and expositor of

the subject for more than thirty years, I have my

thoughts upon it and upon the best way of giving

instructions in it. These I now submit to my colleagues.

The first question is that raised in I. and II. It is,

how shall the student be initiated into Materia Medica

before his regular class-teaching begins? On this point I

would urge one thing: that the text-book commended to

such a learner shall not be one consisting of symptom

lists. Of whatever use they may be to the practitioner,

to a beginner they are uninteresting, confusing

disheartening. He wants an introduction which shall

lead him to easy access to the inner shrine, which shall

prepare him to understand and appreciate what he finds

there. For this purpose a literary work is required; one

susceptible of continuous and not disagreeable reading;

one that deals wth outlines and generalities instead of

burdening the memory with details. It was to supply

such need, mainly, that I originally wrote my

PHARMACODYNAMICS, but I must not let a parentřs

natural partiality blind him to the probability of other

works suiting the student as well or better. I only insist

that if you want to interest him and prepare him to

approach with zest to his further studies in this sphere,

you must choose such a book for his preliminary

reading.

2. ŖWhat is the best method of teaching Materia

Medica for the teacher to his classes in the college?ŗ

This is question II.b., and is, I think, the most important

of all that are asked. My own main answer to it has

been given, by anticipation, in the paper contributed to

this section of the Institute of 1892. I there urged that

teacher of Materia Medica, in a college dominated by

the method of HAHNEMANN, should first of all

ground his students thoroughly in the pathogenetic

action of drugs; and that for this purpose he should use

original material---Hahnemannřs own works when the

drug is contained there, and, for later proving and

poisonings, the detailed narratives of the

CYCLOPAEDIA of DRUG PATHOGENESY. When

from these, quoted and shown to the class, the sick-

making powers of the drug have been demonstrated, its

power to heal should be exhibited and the two classes of

action correlated. My aim in pressing this point was to

eliminate from the class-room those compilations of

symptomatology, which have multiplied so largely of

late, in whch clinical symptoms are mixed up with

observed facts in undistinguished mass. Whatever use

the practitioner may make of such lists, they are simply

fatal to the student, blinding his sense of true and false,

and preparing him to be a symptomatic empiric rather

than a follower of the ruleŕŖlet likes be treated by

likes.ŗ

The discussion which followed the reading of my

paper is an interesting one. Four Materia Medica

professors took part in it. Of these two agreed with my

views, and stated that they followed the practice I

advocated. The other two thought my remonstrances

needless, but went on to warrant them by defending the

very aberrations I had argued against---one advocating

the clinical method of teaching Materia Medica, the

other stating his plan to be the grouping of symptoms

about hypotheses as to the general physiological action

of the drug. I think, then, that I am justified on the

present occasion in reiterating the views I expressed in

1892, and urging the teaching in our colleges of pure

drug-pathogenesy based on original material.

3. In question IV, inquiry is made as to teaching

regarding the potency of the remedies to be employed. I

would advocate here the historical method. It is notŕI

think---individual DICTA that the student should hear

from the chair of Materia Medica; but the general

experience of the homœopathic body. There are

medicines in favor with all sections, high-potency and

low-potency men alike; there are those like Calcarea

and Sepia---which the latter scarcely think of; and there

are those---like the alkaloids---which seem unknown in

the practice of the former. Let the lecturer state these

facts, and refer each medicine to its proper class. His

hearer will thus start on their own career unprejudiced

on the general question of potency, but furnished with

the broad results obtained by their predecessors up to

the present time.

4. As regards the teaching of the Organon, it does not

seem to me to belong to the chair of Materia Medica at

all, but to that of the theory and practice of medicine.

From this I would have it, at sometime in every

studentřs course, read and critically commented on; and

I would urge that for this purpose Dr.DUDGEONřs

revised translation, published last year, should be in the

teachersř hands. Its appendix, based on a collation of

the five editions of the book, and containing excerpts

pertinent to the various points from the other writings of

HAHNEMANN, is invaluable for a full understanding

and exposition of his mind.

May I take this opportunity of pressing also on

those who write upon Materia Medica the importance of

using first-hand matter, and quoting it correctly? Dr.

G.S. PECK is the last who has illustrated the

inconvenience of doing otherwise. In an article on

Mercury in the December number of the NORTH

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HOMŒOPATHY, he

writes thus: Ŗon the male sexual organs Dr. HUGHES

speaks of Mercurius sol., producing various ulcers

which bleed when touched, and cause pain over the

whole body; ulcers are round, raw-looking, with

overhanging edges, base covered with a cheesy lining;

red vesicles at termination of glans, later ulcers form

which break and exude a yellowish, or white, strong

smelling matter.ŗ Now what I have written is the

following: ŖOne of Hahnemannřs provers (Hornburg)

reports the following symptoms---Řa number of small

red vesicles at the termination of the glans penis under

the prepuce, which break open and pour forth a

yellowish-white, staining, strong-smelling matter;

afterwards the large ulcers bled, and, when touching

them, a pain was felt in them which affected the whole

body; they were round; their edges which looked like

raw flesh, overhung the ulcers, the base of which was

covered with a cheesy lining.řŗ A similar symptom was

experienced by one of the provers of Cinnabaris. I am

sure that Dr. PECK himself will see how truth suffers

by his version of this statement. The ulcers are

disconnected from the vesicles, by being placed before

them; are described without warrant as Ŗvariousŗ and I

am made responsible for their frequent production by

Mercurius solubilis (for that is what his words imply).

Whereas I only cited a single incident or such

occurrence.

========================================

16. Dosage and Restoration of Health

Homœopathic Pharmacology

BEIJERING, Frank, J. (HL. 21, 1-2/2008)

ŖLife is short, [the] art long, opportunity

fleeting, experiment treacherous, judgment

difficult.ŗ

- HIPPOCRATES

PART 1

Introduction: For the ordinary person, a dream is a

separate reality. For some people the meaning of a

dream is false and for others a dream can have a

prophetic value.

In Homœopathy a dream is used as a symptom.

Dreams that arose during a proving are weighed the

same way as other symptoms, such as a feeling of hurry,

a cramp in the calf, or palpitations. However, a dream

has a more specific individual meaning.

In exact science dreams actually played a decisive

role and led to important discoveries.

Descartes interpreted his vivid dreams as a sign

from God himself. Following his dreams and

meditations he felt carried to a state that

banished remaining doubts.

Strangely enough, nowadays his work has led to a

mechanistic view from which most scientists derive

their mandate of truth.

In 1844 Howe discovered the principle of the

sewing machine in a dream. He discovered that the hole

for the thread must be located at the point of the needle.

In 1865 the chemist Kekule discovered the structure

formula from hydracarbon benzene in a dream.

In 1869 the chemist Mendeleev realized in a dream

that the elements from which matter exists are arranged

in an orderly manner according to their atomic number.

In 1920 the biologist Leowi found the solution of

neurotransmission of the nerveendings through a dream

that brought back to his consciousness (….) the idea he

had seventeen years before.

Dream

My dream was that I walked in an old city along a

quay wall and opened a very old book. There was

written 0,000000001 over the pages. I knew that this

was a reflection of an infinitesimal dose that is used as

such in Homœopathy.

This dream occurred after I had taken two tablets of

Causticum D12 and fell into a deep sleep for fifteen

hours. At that time I did not know very much about

Homœopathy.

I looked in the Materia Medica by Boericke and

read that Causticum was an antidote for Sulphur. Years

before I had used Sulphur ointments for a skin problem

of longstanding.

Since that dream, dosage has been an intriguing

subject for me.

Polarity Ŕ Entity

All things in life are determined by dosage. Every

step, every word, every moment, how much, how long.

The dosage, an amount of something,

normally

varies

between two polarities.

For example: Hot Ŕ Cold, Dry Ŕ Moist, White Ŕ

Black, Right Ŕ Left, Many - Few.

Accordingly the entities to which these polarities

belong are temperature, humidity colour, symmetry,

quantity etc.

In the homœopathic context one should read:

Poisonous Ŕ Curing.

Poisonous is the phase of production of symptoms

that arise during a proving.

On the basis of the Law of Similars, elimination of

symptoms take place with the homœopathically

prepared remedy and along with that the restoration of

health which we call cure.

So the polarity within Homœopathy concerns

Poisonous Ŕ Curing or Sickness Ŕ Health or Symptom

production Ŕ Symptom elimination.

The entity on which Homœopathy is based is called

Homœostasis.

Compared with regular medicine, as polarity we

distinguish Diagnosis Ŕ Cause. The entity is pathology.

Homœopathic and conventional medicine can be

seen as polarities of the entity medical science.

Formula/Equation

As I knew no better at that time, I had used the

Sulphur ointments for a long time, so repeating

Causticum seemed beneficial.

Again I fell in a deep sleep for more than ten hours

and in a new dream i discovered the system of dosage as

used in Homœopathy in the form of an equation.

The equation I saw was:

S

n

x R

-n

= C

The variables represent objects that are related by a

calculus in such a way that a binding mutual

relationship.

Calculating could be possible if we knew more

about the composing factors from the exponent Řnř.

This factor Řnř, the symptom collection, will be

discussed later.

Concerning the variables we recognize

1. The constant C that is called by HAHNEMANN:

Sense of wellbeing, the state of health that is

regained after the elimination (disappearance) of

symptoms.

This variable constant C has two faces:

On the one hand it is apprehended as a factor that is

constant in a single individual but of course is

different between separate individuals.

This is the general view and applies to a group of

patients. For example: ŖHe is back to his usual self.ŗ

On the other hand the constant C (Homeostasis) is a

variable constant factor.

Variable within the range of what is naturally given

to the body (Dynamis) but constant where different

individuals are concerned (Physis).

This is the individualistic look at the individual

patient.

For example: ŖWe all have different

temperaments.ŗ

In the equation, for the moment, the general look is

concerned.

The constant C stands for Homeostasis, the state of

balance which is generally the leading principle when

sickness and health are considered.

We consider the constant C as the ultimate goal of

the treatment.

2. Variable R

-n

, denoting the remedy, diluted and

pharmacologically potentised, is noted as for example

10000000000000 = D

12

or R

12

3. Variable S

n

denotes the intensity of the disease. It is

an exponential expression-of the number of symptoms

of the patient at a certain time but also, on account for

the law of similar, is equal to the exponential expression

of the production of symptoms during a proving.

During a cure there is an elimination of symptoms

taking place.

In spite of explanations with stronger diseases

dominating weaker diseases, the fact is that the

symptoms disappear and that the very inherence of the

process of potentization is playing a central role in such

a way that stronger diseases need higher potencies.

Interpretation

According to an increase in the number of

symptoms or with the special importance of one or more

symptoms, it is plausible to presume an exponential

increase in the intensity of the disease.

During a cure, in fact, variable S

n

is being reduced

(transformed) into the variable constant C (state of

health of the patient).

On the basis of the law of similar, reduction is

accomplished by virtue of the dynamized homœopathic

remedy.

Only by taking into account the ultimate goal of

the cure, namely, the restoration of health, can one

ascertain a regular interrelation between:

1. The disease, the complex of symptoms S

n

2. The medicine, the remedy R

3. The state of health, the (variable) constant C.

On the basis of the Law of Similars there exists a

delicate defined mutual interrelation between these

variables.

The state of health can be taken as the product of

the complex of symptoms S

n

and the equal-like, similar

remedy R.

Mathematically speaking, in the equation the factor

R must be exponentiated to the power-n in order to

come to C and that, in the case of curing with a similar

remedy, the dosage of the substance must be

inversely proportional to the intensity of the disease.

When the intensity of the disease increases (with

essential, peculiar and concomitant symptoms) the

dosage decreases proportionally in quantity and the

diluting/process of dynamization, is the implied

consequence.

The mutual relationship is represented by the

equation:

S

n1

x R

n2

= C

n1 stands for the collection of symptoms which is

similar to the collection in the proving (Materia

Medica).

From the equation it is clear that the dosage of a

remedy, from which the symptoms are similar to

those of the disease, must be infinitesimal in order to

comply with the terms of the Law of Similars.

The character of the equation indicates that there is

a continuum within which the potency varies according

to the disease intensity.

The determination of the potency firstly has to

correspond with the intensity of the disease.

That is what the formula makes clear at first sight.

It shows a uniform connection between empirical

phenomena as they are experienced in Homœopathy.

In terms of quantity the dosage must be inversely

proportional to the disease intensity. Changes in quality

which the remedy undergoes during the diluting/process

of dynamization, move beyond our direct field of

perception.

Then the response of the autocracy is Ŗthe onlyŗ

guideline to choose an adequate potency.

Exponent Řnř.

The exponent Řnř is not only determined by the

amount of symptoms by number (Physis), but also by

their intensity (Dynamis).

The exponent Řnlř can be made clear by

representing n T (n in Therapeutic situation) and the

exponent n2 in that respect would be nP (situation of

Proving).

The formula then is:

S

n(T)

x R

-n(P)

= C

The variable S

n(T)

stands for the disease intensity,

the complex of symptoms in the phase of therapy.

The variable R

n(P)

stands for the diversity of

symptoms that arose from the proving.

In fact it is the toxic exponent Řnř from the Materia

Medica which is reproduced in the repertory with the

notation in italics and bold etc.

The recording of symptoms that is common in the

repertories hides the very complex way in which three

factors are coherent.

These 3 factors are:

E, Envenom, poison, the toxicity (-signal) of the

remedy. For example Arsenic will produce more

symptoms and probably sooner than Viola tricolor.

Q the metabolic sensitivity of the individual person

A, will display symptoms from for example

Belladonna D2 after 2 days and person B after 7

days.

The results of the proving are also determined by

these differences. T, the time, duration, and

frequency of intake and observation.

The symptom collection Řnř is composed of the

vectors E, T and Q.

The metabolic sensitivity Q is within limits beyond

our control during the proving.

PART 2

Homœopathic Pharmacology

Within the field of research of Homœopathy some

models of explanation show a strong analogy with

regular pharmacology.

Then the question of the mechanism of how

Homœopathy works plays a central role as if it were a

pharmacological substance (pharmacon) in the regular

meaning of the word.

Thereby the research into how Homœopathy works

is dictated by the chemical paradigm. A search is

conducted for an explanation while even the

phenomenon of disease itself is still not understood first.

When we detach the homœopathic remedy from the

nature of the disease it means that during research we

get half of the factual evidence.

Research on the working mechanism of a

homœopathic pharmacon (potency) by itself is

comparable to research into the behavior of a stone

outside the influence of the field of gravity. If one

blows against the stone, it will change its direction

(which in some respects is of course also interesting).

Nevertheless the research must be done, for new

facts will possibly contribute to new hypotheses about

factual constituents of the origin of diseases. It is still

unknown what the basic origin of a symptom is.

As far as Homœopathy is concerned, the remedy

functions Ŗthanks toŗ the disturbance of the autocracy.

A homœopathic pharmacology is based upon a

number of concepts.

In the Hippocratic Corpus the concepts Physis and

Dynamis are first mentioned.

Hahnemann mentions the Autocracy two thousand

years later and he postulates that disease stems from a

dynamic origin and that cure must come about from this

level (Vis medicatrix naturae).

The Physis is the original composition of the body

where the state of health is lodged with accessory

experiences and spiritual concepts.

From here performance of life is carried out. It is

in this field that the potential energy is located (Yin).

The Dynamis is concerned with disturbances as

well as restoration of the Homœostasis. Here the kinetic

energy is located (Yang).

Homœostasis is a situation free from symptoms. It

is strived for by the autocracy given by nature (Tao).

During Homœostasis the Physis and Dynamis are

complementary and balanced.

Autocracy is an integrated form of reaction that we

can compare with Ŗfuzzy mathematicsŗ whereby

different impulses at the same time can be integrated

and reaction follows.

During a chronic disease the Autocracy cannot take

back the Physis to the situation of Homœostasis

whereby the Dynamis maintains the unwanted

symptoms.

The homœopathic remedy fits in with the dynamic

level of disturbance on account of its intrinsic manner of

preparation, the succusions, which lead to dynamisation.

By virtue of the dynamic influence of the remedy the

autocracy can restore health.

Practical consequences

The choice of potency must be proportional to the

intensity of the disease.

As the intensity increases then the potency of the

similar remedy must increase and the dosage must

decrease.

In the stage of the determining the potency,

estimating the variable S

0

is as yet a subjective element.

Because of the empirical content there is a need of

posterior verification.

In the stage of determining the potency, the

estimation of the disease intensity is central to this issue,

nevertheless this in its turn is determined mainly by

the autocratic (reactive) restoring capacity of the

patient.

When the autocratic ability decreases, the

disease become chronic and the disease intensity

increases with it (Vecter T from the facter Řnř)

In daily practice the following combination occur:

Chronic, but yet with signals of Ŗreasonableŗ autocracy:

lower potency.

Chronic, but also with a poor autocracy: higher

potency

Acute, with signs of good autocracy: lower

potency.

Acute, with threat of becoming chronic because of

poor autocracy: higher potency.

It is wrong to relate the potencyto the notation used

in the repertories, or to given data which are

derived from it, because there is no necessary

correlation between this notation and the situation

of the autocracy in the individual case.

The experienced homœopath can admit the fact that

a high disease intensity sometimes can be treated

successfully with a low potency. In this case the

autocracy appeared reasonably intact (Vector Q in

exponent n).

The above-mentioned cases are valid in principle in

the Řnaturalř course of a disease.

The disease intensity can increase through

circumstances, for instance prolonged cold weather or

strong emotions, while the autocratic ability is not

changed, yet, given the circumstances, is no longer

sufficient.

This is also true for the interference effects of

regular medication. After prolonged interference with

regular medication one has to realize the amount of

suppression.

Also in such cases the disease intensity can be

increased while autocracy, naturally given, is not

weakened or diminished. In this case the relationship is

no longer proportional.

This means that if there is any lingering doubt, the

perception of the autocratic ability has to be decisive in

the choice of the height of the potency.

In the homœopathic aetiology we hold that diseases

start with a disturbance in the sense of wellbeing.

Starting from the premise that the disturbance

begins in the sphere of awareness, sensation or

perception and that there is not yet a physical substrate,

we can conceive mind symptoms as having a lower

disease intensity. This is because they arise in the

beginning and the intensity is determined by time

(Vector T in factor Řnř).

So if the collection of symptoms mainly consists of

mind symptoms, a lower potency is to be used. Quite

often we see that mind symptoms lead to the choice of a

high potency. It is possible for mind symptoms to be

strong, suggesting a high disease intensity.

Of course it can be that a situation with mainly

mind symptoms needs a high potency, yet this choice

must be based upon the degree of autocratic weakness

and not from the fact that they are symptoms of the

mind.

The more symptoms have increased physical

correlations, the higher the potency should be. With

degenerations, swellings, discolorations, cancer etc. The

disease is more chronic and the disease intensity higher

(Vector T within exponent Řnř). Then higher potency is

needed. Also vector E should be taken into account.

It is also true that with symptoms that resort under

§153 of the Organon, the potency can remain low.

However, if many concordant symptoms occur in the

case, the potency increases correspondingly when the

autocracy is properly estimated.

Starting from an adequate choice of the simillimum

an improvement in the patient will take place (Well-

being). When the patient improves, in other words

when the autocracy appears to react according to

expectations, then raising the potency after this is

contra-indicated and not compatible with the equation

of the Law of Similars.

When a restoration has taken place, meaning a

reduction in disease intensity, the next choice has to be

lower potency.

Raising the potency during the treatment can be

only an emergency measure because the starting

potency has not been right, and an aggravation occurs.

This throws a new light on the LM potencies where

gradually increasing with potencies is a common

procedure and whereby an Řend aggravationř, is being

interpreted as completion of the Řcureř.

During this raising of the potency one supposes an

apparent increase in disease intensity. But actually a

proving is being imitated and the end aggravation

becomes understandable.

In spite of an extensive explanation to patients in

practice, it occurred more than once that this end

aggravation was experienced as: ŖI thought I was better

and now everything is coming back…!ŗ

Now, as far as a we can rationally approach

Homœopathy, there is no solid justification for climbing

with potencies when patients are becoming better; in

that case the autocracy is actually neglected and the

remedy is suspected to work like a regular farmacon.

Climbing with potency by so-called Ŗplussing upŗ

looks like an experiment with the autocracy where the

starting point is that potency of the first choice is not

sufficient so the autocracy has to be Ŗtriggeredŗ.

In my experience it is successful (enough) when the

patient for example begins with, depending on the

estimation of the autocracy of course, LM18 and after

improvement continues with LM 12 or LM8.

Aggravations

The ultimate goal in Homœopathy is to restore

health in a mild, rapid and gentle way (§2, Organon).

In this respect an aggravation can be seen as the

result of the potency and the autocratic disturbance

being incompatible. And because we can only alter the

potency beforehand, it is obvious that if an aggravation

takes place, we should Ŗblameŗ the choice of potency or

the frequency in which it is given.

When prejudice is ruling then an aggravation might

comfort the patient (and the therapist!) in the sense that

he Ŗreally feelsŗ that it is working…

If we take into account that there are twelve

reactions to a remedy, we can learn from it that the

autocracy is really a Ŗpersonŗ that we are dealing with.

It is beyond the scope of this article to go more

deeply into these situations but generally we can say

that as soon as an improvement has taken place we can

give time for its course, either repeating after a certain

time or lowering the potency. Besides an aggravation,

in no situation an increase in potency is to be

recommended.

If there is a change of remedy because of a

different disease then again we should estimate the

autocracy in that respect to adjust the potency.

Concerning paradigms

The reality that results from the equation of the

Law of similars is that the homœopathic dosage MUST

have an infinitesimal character in order for the diseased

organism to be taken back (forward) to the desired

homœostasis.

From the infinitesimal character it is also clear that

a shift is taking place from the chemical realm into the

physical. Here the small particles exist.

With explanatory models in chemistry nowadays

more and more solutions are looked for in physics.

Nevertheless, regular medicine wants to keep the

medication within chemical limits.

This is understandable, because in acute

lifethreatening cases control is made possible with

chemical medicines only. Moreover, when one realizes

that in acute cases we have no time to collect all the

symptoms that are necessary, the chemical intervention

is to be preferred.

In chronic diseases, however, we see regular

medicine repeat itself by treating the chronic disease in

an acute way.

In times of paradigm shift, as in Copernicusř time,

there was a whole change taking place where the old

Ptolemean system could not withstand the new

calculations.

In the dispute where conventional medicine does

not accept other ways of thinking it is not a matter of

paradigm in the sense that conventional medicine is

false or not valuable anymore.

The rigid resistance to accepting other approaches

that are more suitable for chronic diseases looks like a

gap between different paradigms but this is a

misunderstanding and confuses.

Even where a new approach is accepted, acquired

scientific truth remains. What is just not right is that the

single method of local diagnosis claims the whole

medical field, but, in my opinion, this is not a matter of

paradigm but more of epistemology.

The more we focus on the paradigm as if

conventional medicine were basically (profoundly)

wrong, the more conventional medicine will react with

resistance and rigidity.

Discussion

It is debatable whether the variable S

n

is the most

adequate notation for the disease intensity.

Looking at the equation, however, it fits the way in

which dosage has developed since Homœopathy has

existed.

The diluting/potentizing procedures in

Homœopathy are quite similar to an algorithm.

Because of the different variables concerned (E, Q

and T) additional study is necessary to know more about

complexity classes as in computational complexity

theory.

The restoration of health (Homeostasis, variable

constant C) is the main characteristic in Homœopathy

that deals with individual combination of symptoms.

As a (major) factor it characteristically distinguishes

homœopathic from conventional pharmacology given

that the latter is adapted to local diagnosis and has its

focus on antagonizing dysfunctions in biochemical

processes. In conventional pharmacology, Homeostasis

is not accomplished when the medicine has to be

repeated every day. Therefore in Homœopathy this

factor is indirectly of decisive influence on the choice of

potency.

The main interest of the equation so far is that the

restoration of health is the implicit ultimate goal in

treatment. In this light the disease intensity and the

potency height become evidently and intrinsically

related to each other.

The thought that the disease intensity is a parameter

from the autocratic ability follows from there and is

equally important.

References

(With thanks to M.Plouvier-Suijs [homœopathic

doctor].)

1

Adler UC, Cesar AT, Adler MS et al. LM or Q

potencies. Homœopathic Links 2005; 18:87

2

Auerbach D. her potentieringsprocess bekeken

vanuit de modern fysica. SSC 2000; 30: 23-24

3

Kurz C. The last word in posology. Homœopathic

Links 1996; 9:186.

4

Chatterjee SK. My experiences with LM potencies.

Homœopathic Links 1997; 10:17

5

Debars F. Her gebruik van LM potenties, SSC

1996; 26:19

6

Discussion on posology. Homœopathic Links

1993; 6:12

7

HAHNEMANN S. Organon der Heilkunst. 6

th

ed.

Stuttgart: Hippokrates Verlag, 1979

8

Morozov A. Avogadrořs number and

Homœopathy. Homœopathic Links 2003; 16:97-

100

9

Pelt M. Over potenties. SSC 1997; 27:2-5

10

Sankaran P. Repetition of dose. Homœopathic

Links 1993; 6:34

11

Sankaran P. Elements of Homœopathy Part 2.

Mumbai: Homœopathic Medical Publishers, 1997

12

Schaardenburg van D. Energetische aspecten van

de homeopathie. SSC 1991; 21: 100-105

13

Schepper de L. Achieving and Maintaining the

Simillimum, Santa Fe: Full of Live Publishing,

2004

14

Scholten J. Homœopathy and science.

Homœopathic Links 2004; 17: 160

15

Suijs M. Aspecten van de homeopathie, Uden:

Private Publication, 2002

========================================

PART III

(While Part II features articles from other journals, Part III contains the editorřs own contribution and other original

articles.)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BOOK SHELF:

I. Materia Medica Revisa Homoeopathiae Ŕ Crocus

von Michael REICHERT, Wunnibald Gypser

Verlag 2011. ISBN Ŕ 978-3-940940-22-3.

This Monograph deals with the homœopathic

remedy Crocus sativa commonly known as Safron.

First proved by E. STAPF and G.W. GROSS and

published in the ŘStapfs Archivř in 1822.

The ALLENřs Encyclopaedia (No.III, p. 578)

contains 339 symptoms including STAPF, GROSS and

other sources.

This Monograph under review has accessed very

reliable sources and has compiled 661 symptoms.

A reference to the Kent Repertory shows that there

are symptoms in the Materia Medica which have not

been entered into the Repertory. For example ŖNeck

and Ext. throatŗ Symptom No.500 says ŖThe nerves of

the entire neck and back of head were very sensitive to

touchŗ is not found under ŖBack, sensitiveř or ŘExt.

throat, sensitiveř or ŘPain cervicalř.

I must undertake to verify every symptom with the

Kent Repertory and see the result.

A valuable work, beautifully produced and well

worth to be in the library of every homœopath.

K.S. SRINIVASAN.

========================================

II. Materia Medica Revisa Homoeopathiae Ŕ

Laurocerasus von Gertraud ROOS. Hrsg

Wunnibald Gypser Verlag, 2009. von Klaus-

Henning GYPSER. ISBN 978-3-940940-05-6.

This Monograph is one in the series of several such

- each remedy dedicated a separate book, containing all

reliable material well verified.

Laurocerasus – Prunus

Laurocerasus – is a Řsmall remedyř. The first

ŘProvingř was done in 1825.

1298 symptoms are given in this work; while the

EN. Vol. 5 has 1085 symptoms, the Guiding Symptoms

has only few pages for this remedy.

Dr. ROOS has mentioned in the ŘNachwortř that the

Řobjectiveř symptom ŖSweat on the Noseŗ as a Key

Symptom. However, this is not found in the EN and in

this Monograph it is found under ŖPerspirationŗ Chill

and Heat. I did not find it under Nose!

Personally, I have used this remedy more often in

cough and respiration disorders. In young persons with

h/o Řasphyxiař in the new born or h/o Řbluishnessř of

face on birth, respiration distress at birth Laurocerasus

has to be thought of. I recall a case of a young girl of

15 year age who was an athlete at ŘNationalř level. She

was now going to higher class and needs to spend more

hours of study, but in her history it was said that she

must have at least 8 hrs. sleep and anything short of it

would cause respiration distress. She had already cut

her Řathletic practiceř sessions so thatřs she could

Řstudyř. The parents wanted that this girl should be

helped to do with a little less sleep without hindering

her health in anyway; she has so far been under

treatment of Řspecialistsř and the parents were very

circumspectual. No indications were available to

confidently prescribe; her mother said that the delivery

was Řnormalř. I asked her whether the Řnormalř

delivery took long time, whether the foetus was stuck

up, etc. and the mother poured out that it was most

painful, it took more than 2 hours the childřs face

became blue and she gasped. However the hospital

declared all well including the Paediatrician!

I gave this girl a dose of Laurocerasus 200 and she

went on to do well, do with 7 hours sleep, study well,

etc. I could follow-up for nearly an year and she

remained well.

Similarly Laurocerasus has been a great cough

remedy. It has also helped several Řheartř cases.

Laurocerasus is indeed a Řbigř medicine, and not to

be relegated to the Řsmallř. The symptom need to be

carefully studied and thought over.

Very well prepared Monograph and should be in

the library of every Homœopathy Practitioner.

The Print paper, etc. are all of the highest quality.

K.S. SRINIVASAN.

========================================

III. Materia Medica Revisa Homoeopathiae Ŕ

Ipecacuanha von Klara BREVER. Hrsg

Wunnibald Gypser Verlag, 2009. von Klaus-

Henning GYPSER. ISBN 978-3-940940-07-0.

Ipecacuanha is one of the earliest remedies

HAHNEMANN had recorded in his Materia Medica

ŘFragmenta de viribus Medicamentorum….ř, 1805. It is

a most often used remedy, in Cough, nausea and

vomiting, bleedings, bronchitis, Asthma, and is in our

daily use. Everyone of us can readily recall some cases

where Ipecacuanha has brought about remarkable

results.

An experienced senior homœopath asked in a

seminar, ŖWould you prescribe Ipecacuanha in a case

where the bleeding was not bright red (arterial)?ŗ The

answer was to be ŖYes, in exceptional caseŗ.

Ipecacuanha is also great ŘFeverř remedy,

including the Intermittent Fever; it is also of great use in

ŘFemaleř complaints.

1093 symptoms are given in this Monograph. It

will be useful in day to day practice.

As always the book is very well produced and well

worth. Colleagues are requested to give Řfeed-backř;

only in that way do we progress.

K.S. SRINIVASAN.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Materia Quasi - Medica.

I. 1. More than 1.5 million children under five die every

year from preventable causes. Columns have been

written and hours have been spent by different

channels on why children are dying. Children are

left lying on the floor in the hospitals and mothers

share the beds. One child under the age of five,

dies every 20 seconds in India. Close to 1.7 million

children die every year in India. The majority of

these are preventable. Having trained health

workers in the community who can diagnose

symptoms of diarrhea or Pneumonia can save

thousands of childrenřs lives. The Govt. spends a

pittance Ŕ 1.04% of the GDP Ŕ on health. Given

the scale of the problem, this is baffling. About

70% of Indians spend their entire income on health-

care and purchasing drugs according to the WHO!

Those who are in seats of power appear almost

unconcerned by the fact that India holds the No.1

spot for the most number of children dying under

the age of five. We have lived with lack of toilets,

poverty, malnutrition for so long that they are not

seen as political issues. Another equally callous

response of the state is to the issue of child labour.

…. (Extract from A Silent Tragedy of Ananthapriya

Subramanian in The Hindu, Chennai, Nov. 18,

2011).

2. India is considered an agrarian land. However over

the past few decades the agricultural activities are

dwindling for various reasons; and there have been

large scale suicides by farmers who were in deep

financial debts and unable to pay. ŖIn 16 years

farm suicides cross a quarter million; past 8 years

show a rising trendŗ (The Hindu, Chennai, dated 29

Oct. 2011). If salt loses its saltiness with what can

it be salted? ŖAll technological progress minus

agriculture is like a mirage in the desert.ŗ

--------------------------------------------------------------------

II. The State and evil of drink. (The Hindu,

Chennai. 12 Jan. 2010).

As it is happening in Kerala and Tamil Nadu the

State is often profiting from the ruinous stuff. This

should end. V.R. KRISHNA IYER.

Kerala is perhaps the Ŗmost drunken Stateŗ in India.

The Government benefits from its monopolistic

business arm. Of course it provides jobs for a number

of people. This also makes young people taste the

delight of the drink. Many a fracas, felony, road

accident and incident of street vilence starts with

alcoholism. Terrible crimes are committed. Most rape

cases happen after taking sips of the liquid. With final

gulp one become comatose and lie down somewhere not

knowing where. If it happens at home, the wife gets

beaten if she protests and the family ends up bankrupt.

Hospitalization owing to drink evil seems to rise.

Liquor can be seen to violate the fundamental right of

the citizen to travel around in peace, have friendly

association with others, and live in fraternity.

Governments make people bankrupt by granting

easy licenses to clubs with liquor Ŕ dispensing bars

attached to them. Tamil Nadu not only manufactures,

but vends liquor. Who will dare dismiss the

government for violating Article 47?

Gandhi and Rajaji implemented a prohibition

policy successfully. Even now it can work a la Gujarat.

President Pratibha Patil at a public meeting said

that Kerala is plagued by alcoholism.

When Nehru was in power he asked Indian

Embassies not to serve liquor on Independence and

Republic days and also said that if people would attend

only if liquor is served, then such celebrations need not

be held Morarji Desai introduced dry days on wage

payment days and festival days. So far as liquor

consumption is concerned, the centre, if it believes in

the constitution and in particular in Article 47, should

force the States to practice prohibition.

Alcoholism is a national enemy and our import

policy must ban foreign liquor.

Great men like Bernard Shaw to Mahatma Gandhi

were free from liquor. From Vedanta to Islam and

every faith which is committed to dignity has advocated

this. Absolute ban should be given to alcoholism.

I hold drink to be more damnable than thievery and

perhaps even prostitution. Is it not often the parent to

both? Government revenue from drinking should be

swept out and liquor shops should be abolished.

This nation will perish with the drinking bowl with

atrabilious liquor because the powerful lobby can

purchase the politician at any price to do away with dry

days and flood the youth with liquor until blood colours

streets and homes red.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

III. Are the days of Incurable diseases really over?

Venkatraman RAMAKRISHNAN & Richard J.

ROBERTS deconstruct the unseen world of

bacteria: (The Hindu, Chennai dated Dec. 20, 2011).

Two Nobel laureates Deconstructed the fascinating

workings of that invisible yet ubiquitous life form

Řbacteriař.

Are the days of incurable diseases really over? Not

quite, when diseases such as Tuberculosis are seeing a

resurgene, said Biologist Ramakrishnan.

He was delivering a lecture on ŘHow antibiotics

illuminate Ribosome function and vice versa.

ŖThe world has 100 million active cases of TB, a

disease that claims two million lives every year.,ŗ he

said, attributing the complexities in treating the disease

to drug resistance, among other reasons.

When a new antibiotic is introduced, you can be

guaranteed that it will at some point gain drug

resistance.

Bacteria counter antibiotics through several

operandi: by degrading or altering enzymes and by

actually ejecting them out of their cells, said Professor

Ramakrishnan, who was awarded the Nobel prize for

Chemistry in 2009 for studies of the structure and

function of the ribosome.

It was significant that it took $1 billion to develop

new drugs from scratch, he said.

ŖAs public we need to be aware that structural

biologists and pharmaceutical companies cannot alone

solve the problem of drug resistance. We need infection

control, measures to improve sanitary conditions and

promote the rational use of antimicrobials.ŗ

Do not for instance insist on an antibiotic if catch a

cold and flu.

In his lecture ŖWhy I love Bacteria,ŗ he said, if we

removed every bacterium from our body, we will cease

to exist,ŗ Our bodies have some 10 trillion human cells,

but it has 10 times the number of bacterial cells: 100

trillion to be precise.

He described as Ŗillogicalŗ the European fear of

genetically modified products, which has stalled

research in several areas, including probiotic food that

could have had several benefits.

The M.J. Thirumalachar and M.J. Narasimhan

Endowment Lectures were organized to honour the

memory of biologist Thirumalachar, who established

the Jeersannidhi-Anderson Institute at Walnut Creek,

California, along with his son M.J. Narasimhan.

========================================

[Extract from Foreword to Synoptic Key of the Materia

Medica by C.M. BOGER.]

ŖWhat often makes a cure hard is the laying of too

much stress upon some particular factor at the expense

of the disease picture as a whole, thus destroying its

symmetry and forming a distorted conception of the

natural image of the sickness. This does not, however,

mean that all symptoms stand on the same level, for

certain effects must be more prominent than others, yet

be part and parcel of them. This is the sense in whch we

must learn to know our remedies, just as we do our

friends, by their air or personality; an ever changing,

composite effect, but always reflecting the same

motive.ŗ

*********

APIS MELLIFICA

1. Strumous constitutions; children and girls who

become awkward esp. in handling things; hysterical

women.

2. Anxiety with tearful restlessness; impaired memory

and absent-mindedness in elderly persons.

3. Oedematous swellings, serous effusions, and

urticaria.

4. Pains burning, darting, stinging > cold (rev. Ars.)

5. General soreness and sensitiveness of body surface

< touch or pressure esp. uterine and ovarian

regions; constriction disliked; weary, bruised

feeling.

6. Marked restlessness (physical causes) without > to

symptoms.

7. Great drowsiness; sleep much disturbed by pain or

anxious dreams; spoor interrupted by piercing

screams (meaningitis).

8. Thirstlessness in nearly all complaints esp.

dropsical conditions.

9. Ailments right-sided or travel from right to left.

10. Patients < all forms of heat; general < 4-6 p.m.

< sleep.

Notes: Slow-acting remedy. In acute conditions wait

an hour or two. Low potencies should not be given

during pregnancy. Keynote-Oedema.

[DECACHORDS Ŕ TOP TEN INDICATIONS BY

J.H. CLARKE]

=======================================