Dr. Urvi, Author at Aura Homeopathic Care by Dr. Urvi Dhokiya

Pilot Study on the Efficacy of Intercurrent Remedies in Bronchial Asthma

Posted on July 4, 2025July 7, 2025 by Dr. Urvi

Unlocking Deeper Healing: Insights from Dr. Stuart Close & ACT Assessment – Presented by: Dr. Urvi Dhokiya

Executive Summary: Key Study Highlights

33.3%

Patients Showed Improvement

Demonstrating positive response to intervention.

8/12

Majority Male Participants

Cohort composition with diverse age range.

9/12

Younger Adults (15-25)

Primary age group of the study population.

Understanding Bronchial Asthma: A Global and Indian Perspective

Bronchial asthma, a major noncommunicable disease (NCD) recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), presents a significant global health challenge. Characterized by recurrent episodes of breathlessness and wheezing, its impact varies greatly among individuals, often compounded by chest tightness and a persistent cough that can worsen with physical exertion or during nocturnal hours, severely diminishing quality of life.

Estimates suggest that 4-5% of the global population is affected by asthma. In India, the prevalence stands at approximately 2%, translating into a formidable burden impacting over 15 million patients. While conventional medical treatments, such as steroids and inhalers, offer symptomatic relief, they frequently entail biological side effects, complications, and foster dependency on pharmaceutical interventions. This pressing reality underscores an urgent demand for innovative and holistic therapeutic strategies that not only mitigate symptoms but also address the root causes while minimizing adverse effects.

Homoeopathy, in contrast, embraces a holistic treatment philosophy. It tailors treatment to the individual, administering a “similimum”—a remedy chosen based on the unique symptomatology and constitution of each patient, applied in a minimum, effective dose. Crucially, in chronic diseases like asthma, where a case may reach a therapeutic plateau or a latent disease state persists even after the administration of the constitutional similimum, the concept of “intercurrent remedies” becomes vital. As elucidated by Dr. Stuart Close, the strategic use of anti-miasmatic and nosode remedies as intercurrents can penetrate these latent layers, yielding profound and sustainable improvements by addressing the underlying disease predispositions.

Primary Study Aim

The overarching objective guiding this research endeavors to…

“To ascertain the effectiveness of intercurrent remedies in cases of bronchial asthma.”

Key Study Objectives

To achieve the primary aim, several specific objectives were established to comprehensively evaluate the role and impact of intercurrent remedies.

To understand the effectiveness of intercurrent remedies in homoeopathic management in cases of bronchial asthma.
To study the relevance of intercurrent remedies of Stuart Close in cases of bronchial asthma, emphasizing their theoretical basis and practical application.
To improve the quality of life in the patients suffering from bronchial asthma, assessed through validated clinical tools.

Methodology: A Rigorous Approach to Clinical Investigation

This pilot study meticulously followed a prospective experimental design, implementing a precise protocol from patient recruitment to final outcome assessment. This systematic framework was crucial for ensuring the reliability and validity of data collected concerning the efficacy of intercurrent remedies.

📈

Study Type: Prospective Experimental Study

🧪

Sampling: Random Sampling for Representative Data

🎯

Sample Size: 12 Patients Selected

📍

Study Location: Sainth Homoeopathic Hospital, Rajkot

✅

Patient Recruitment: Based on Defined Inclusion & Exclusion Criteria

📝

Initial Assessment: Utilizing Asthma Control Test (ACT) for Baseline

💉

Therapeutic Intervention: Similimum & Intercurrent Remedies

🗓️

Follow-up Schedule: Every 15 Days (with Flexibility)

📈

Data Analysis & Conclusion: Rigorous Evaluation of Outcomes

Inclusion Criteria

The following stringent criteria were applied to ensure a focused and relevant patient cohort for the study.

Pre-diagnosed cases of bronchial asthma confirmed by comprehensive clinical history, presentation, and physical examination findings.
Patients with diagnosed asthma currently under conventional treatment but experiencing uncontrolled symptoms, who express a desire to transition to Homoeopathy.
Participants aged between 15 and 45 years at the time of enrollment.
Both male and female sexes were included to ensure broader demographic representation within the study limitations.

Exclusion Criteria

To maintain the purity of the study’s intervention and mitigate confounding factors, specific patient conditions or concurrent treatments led to exclusion.

Patients diagnosed with bronchial asthma complications necessitating oxygen therapy or emergency intervention.
Individuals outside the defined age range: younger than 15 years or older than 45 years.
Patients with any co-existing malignant medical conditions.
Individuals currently receiving or with a recent history of oral or injectable steroid therapy for asthma or related conditions.
Patients with underlying cardiac complications that could influence asthma management or outcomes.
Pregnant women, due to ethical considerations and potential physiological complexities affecting asthma presentation.

Demographic Insights of the Study Cohort

Understanding the demographic composition of the study participants is crucial for interpreting the results and assessing their generalizability. This section details the gender and age distribution of the 12 enrolled patients.

Patient Gender Distribution

The majority of the study cohort consisted of male participants.

Out of 12 participants:

8 Males (66.6%)

4 Females (33.3%)

Patient Age Distribution

The study predominantly included younger adult patients within the specified age range.

Out of 12 participants:

-700″>Age Group Distribution:

15-25 years: 9 patients

26-45 years: 3 patients

Therapeutic Interventions: Prescribed Remedies

This section delineates the specific homoeopathic remedies utilized throughout the study, categorizing them into baseline prescriptions (similimum) and the crucial intercurrent remedies employed to address deeper miasmatic layers or therapeutic plateaus.

Frequency of Baseline Homoeopathic Drugs

The initial homoeopathic remedies most frequently prescribed upon patient enrollment, reflecting the constitutional similimum choice.

Arsenicum album & Phosphorus: Each prescribed to 3 patients, indicating their strong symptom-matching in this cohort.

Natrum sulph: Also used for 3 patients, reflecting its relevance in specific asthmatic presentations.

Ars iod: Prescribed for 2 patients, suggesting its utility in particular nuanced cases.

Ipecacunha: Used for 1 patient, indicating a less frequent but still relevant remedy.

Frequency of Intercurrent Remedies Prescribed

Highlighting the crucial intercurrent remedies utilized to address latent disease phases and facilitate deeper healing as per Dr. Stuart Close’s principles.

Tuberculinum: Most frequently used for 5 patients, emphasizing its role in addressing tubercular miasmatic influences.

Medorrinum: Prescribed for 3 patients, targeting sycotic miasmatic background.

Psorinum: Used for 2 patients, indicating its application for psoric miasmatic blocks.

Steptococcinum & Carcinosin: Each used for 1 patient, demonstrating a tailored approach to specific miasmatic challenges.

Study Outcomes: Assessing Efficacy and Patient Progress

The effectiveness of the homoeopathic intervention was rigorously assessed through overall patient outcomes and the standardized Asthma Control Test (ACT) scores. This section presents a detailed analysis of these key indicators, reflecting the study’s impact on patient health.

Overall Patient Outcome Distribution

A comprehensive summary of the primary outcomes following the homoeopathic intervention, highlighting the proportion of patients who experienced improvement.

Outcome Category	Number of Patients	Percentage (%)
Improved	4	33.3%
Worsened	2	16.6%
No Significant Change	3	25.0%
Dropped Out	3	25.0%

Asthma Control Test (ACT) Score Improvement

The ACT score is a vital tool for objectively assessing asthma control levels. This visualization illustrates the distribution of patients across different control categories post-intervention, indicating a discernible shift towards improved management for a portion of the cohort.

Very Poorly Controlled (0-15): Indicates severe asthma symptoms with substantial impact on daily functioning. In this study, 2 patients remained within this category.

Poorly Controlled (15-20): Suggests moderate asthma symptoms necessitating enhanced management strategies. 3 patients were identified in this group, indicating room for further improvement.

Well Controlled (20-25): Represents optimal symptom control and minimal impact on daily life. A significant positive outcome was observed for 4 patients in the study, showcasing the effectiveness of the intervention for this subgroup.

Figure: Asthma Control Test (ACT) Questionnaire used for assessment.

Conclusion: Advancing Homoeopathic Efficacy in Asthma Management

This pilot study offers compelling evidence that the integrated homoeopathic approach—combining a meticulously selected constitutional similimum with the strategic application of intercurrent remedies (such as nosodes)—yields positive therapeutic outcomes in bronchial asthma cases. This methodology, rooted in the profound principles articulated by Dr. Stuart Close, demonstrates a capacity for deeper, more sustained healing beyond symptomatic palliation. The findings underscore the potential efficacy of this specific homoeopathic intervention in contributing to the comprehensive management of bronchial asthma, addressing not only overt symptoms but also underlying miasmatic predispositions. While promising, these observations necessitate further expanded research, including larger cohorts and randomized controlled trials, to rigorously validate and broaden the applicability of these significant results in the global clinical landscape.

References

sarkar B.K., Organon of Medicine, 10th reprint ed. 2011; Birla publication,p116,119,164.
Hahnemann Samuel. Organon of Medicine. 6th ed. B. Jain Publishers; 2002.
Hahnemann S. The Chronic Diseases, Their Peculiar Nature and Their Homoeopathic Cure. 1904
Stone RM, Tinsley Randolph Harrison, Netlibrary I. Harrison’s principles of internal medicine: self-assessment and board review. New York: Mcgraw-Hill, Medical Pub. Division; 2001.
Loscalzo J, Fauci AS, Kasper DL, Hauser SL, Longo DL, Jameson JL. Harrison’s principles of internal medicine. 21st ed. New York: McGraw Hill; 2022.
R. Mcintyer, BS MD, Close S. The Genius of Homoeopathy. B. Jain Publishers; 2001.
Asthma Control Test (ACT) \[Internet]. www.thoracic.org. Available from: https://www.thoracic.org/members/assemblies/assemblies/srn/questionaires/act.php

Homoeopathic Management in Osteoarthritis

Posted on April 12, 2025April 12, 2025 by Dr. Urvi

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a most common joint disorder. Ageing and obesity are
predisposing factors for OA. It can lead to articular cartilage damage, osteophyte formation
which ends up in getting severe pain in joints. In the past, some studies have concluded that
consumption of pain killers is the only way to reduce pain without treating the structural
changes in the joints. Homeopathy treats OA to such extent which not only reduces joint pain
but also significantly decreases the rate of joint damage which ends up relatively improving
the quality of life. This article includes a systematic study of origins, symptoms and treatment
of Osteoarthritis under the homeopathy area of medical science.
Key Word- Osteoarthritis, OA, Homoeopathy, Degenerative.

Asthma’s Invisible Tethers: A Symphony of Miasms and intercurrent Remedies

Posted on April 11, 2025April 12, 2025 by Dr. Urvi

Abstract:

This article examines the miasmatic background of asthma and its role in predisposing individuals, particularly children, to recurrent respiratory conditions. The discussion highlights the significance of constitutional remedies in addressing underlying susceptibilities explores objective and subjective symptoms, and elaborates on key remedies for both chronic and acute conditions. Historical perspectives and practical insights from homeopathic philosophy are integrated to present a holistic approach
to asthma management.

Introduction:

Asthma, a common respiratory disorder, is influenced by a miasmatic predisposition that determines susceptibility and reaction patterns in individuals. This article explores the foundational theories of homeopathy, including insights from Dr. Hahnemann and Dr. Kent, to understand asthma’s miasmatic roots and their implications for treatment. By focusing on objective symptoms, causative factors, and the use of constitutional remedies, the article provides an integrative approach to achieving lasting relief in asthma cases, especially among children. Historical figures and their struggles with asthma also underscore the enduring relevance of this holistic perspective. It is well known that all allergies whether respiratory or otherwise have a miasmatic background which leads to a susceptibility or predisposition to react to certain conditions and circumstances. If this miasmatic background is not removed. the children are liable to have reactions by getting wet, exposure to cold air or inhaling dust or smoke or by eating certain foods or fruits, etc. In some it may be a change of weather or change of place that may cause the trouble. These are nothing but exciting causes that may cause the development of cold. pneumonia, pleurisy or bronchitis. Prescribing on these exciting causes will not yielda permanent cure but may palliate for the time being and later on even these pallia-rives will not help until and unless the children are freed from their susceptibility by constitutional remedies which cover the entire background in which basic causes or causes exist.

It is interesting to mention here that Dr. Hahnemann suffered troubles. Dr. Farrington died very young. from bronchial During his illness, he went to Europe for a change thinking that it would improve his condition, but it became worse and he returned to his native place. Some of his Junior doctors suggested a change of treatment. Dr. Farrington being trained in both the systems was well aware of the results. Before his death, he told his sympathizer “If I must die, I want to die as a Christian”.

Dr. Rajendra prasad and Sri Rajagopachari, past Presidents of our Country and Swami Vivekananda the spiritual genius of the world, all suffered from asthma. These stalwarts belonging to medicine, politics and religion were all highly intellectual scholars, catholic and cosmopolitan in outlook and behavior and served humanity. There is line between insanity and intellectuality. The phthisis and other lung troubles are the protective diseases in arresting insanity. This has been elaborated very well by Dr. Kent. Hence all the above personalities of great intelligence had lung trouble in one form or the other and were not cured till their end and remained intellectually sound Such people generally fall under Tubercular diathesis.

Dr.Kent in the beginning of his practice was quite difficult in undertaking cases of asthma as there was no prompt cure This is quite evident from the fact that Dr. Hahnemann, the founder of Homoeopathy was not able to get himself cured of his asthma. Dr. Kent as he went on studying the organon and philosophy over years, came to the conclusion and said that the Sycotic Miasm is the root cause for most of the asthma patients. He also infused confidence in the minds of Homoeopaths and was responsible for the cure of asthma and other ailments of a miasmatic nature. His exposition of philosophy and Miasms is remarkable and par excellence. But for him many chronic ailments would have remained incurable. He says that Ars.alb..Spong., Ipecac are not effective in chronic asthma. They may give relief in the beginning but will not cure until and unless the chronic and constitutional remedies like Nat-s, and Kali-c. are prescribed. Now looking into the record of many good prescribers, we have the confidence to under-take the cases of asthma and assure a cure. But the question is whether we have achieved success in giving prompt relief during acute attacks particularly in children. In over forty years of my practice, I have failed to give immediate relief in some cases of acute bronchitis.

In children, it is very difficult to gather mentals of importance. Therefore many a time one has to rely more on objective symptoms which are easier to collect than mentals, provided one has the knowledge of collecting such symptoms skillfully. For instance, in a case of pneumonia or bronchitis if we find symptoms of drowsiness, rattling in chest, perspiration, prostration, face cold and blue, white coating of tongue with red edges, fan like motion of the wings of the nose and whining while touching. Immediately comes to our mind Ant tart, which will definitely cure provided the miasmatic background does not get mingled with or has a strong hold on such cases. Such cases belong to sycosis and remedies needed are Natsulph and Thuja. Of course there are many more remedies like Kali-c., Nit-acid, etc. which are to be thought of according to the background of the cases. Here also difficulty arises in collecting miasmatic mental symptoms. Therefore once again I repeat that we have to hunt for objective symptoms of Miasms concerning the cases. In Sycotic cases blood becomes hydroscopic and the reaction takes place by exposure to humid or damp weather or living in damp place or atmosphere or by drinking cold drinks or juicy fruits because the excess of hydrogen in the atmosphere or in fruits is not tolerated as the blood is already hygroscopic. Hence hydrogenoid remedies like Nat-s., and Thuj. are very essential for a permanent cure.

Impatience becomes more prominent in acute conditions. Now aptly it covers the Miasm of Sycotic cases. We have Ars-alb., Chin, Dulc, Sep, Sil., etc., all belong to impatience and respond to fast cures. In some cases Sulph. becomes a leading remedy if case is associated with psora symptoms.

If the face is blue in asthma, we have Stram., and if face is cyanotic we have to think of remedies like Arsalb., Aur., Cact., Cupr., Hydr-ac., Lyss., Merc-cy., Natm. and Vespa. Yellow band across forehead close to hair needs Med. Yellow saddle across cheeks calls for Sep. Yellow saddle across the nose, cold breathe, perspiration on head or forehead, perspiration on single parts, perspiration cold of hot, dilated nostrils or motion of the wings of the nose lips dry or cracked, corners of the mouth cracked, wrinkled forehead or face and many more such objective symptoms can be elicited for easy prescribing. Brown eyes in some cases, are invariably cured by Nit ac.

Similarly, we come across many objective symptoms. Restlessness in children calls for Ant-tart., Bor., Cham., Jal., Rheum. Rest lessness relieved by carried about requires Ant-tart, Ars., Charm., Cina, and Kall-c. Rest-lessness due to chest congestion needs Sep. Amelioration by rocking during asthmatic conditions demands Kali-c.. Acon., Cham., Cina., Puls., and Rhus-tox also have the symptom of rocking but in general in any complaints.

Tuberculinum checks the tendency to cold that descends to the chest causing respiratory diseases like
Pneumonia Bronchitis etc. Its symptoms are ever-changing. Emaciation while eating well like lodium. Longs for open air, and wants doors and windows open like Pulsatilla and Kali-s. Kali-s. is more often necessary in children, particularly exposure, cannot get rid of one before another comes. Restless, never satisfied to remain in one place long and wants to travel.

Like Tuberculinum we have one more remedy. Carcinocin, which is not frequently used or not thought of at all by many because of its name itself and also because not found in the Kent’s Repertory. It is wonderful remedy for use in children if they have a family history of anemia, Cancer, Diabetes, Tuberculosis with a history of at-tacks of pneumonia and whooping cough. It has an aggravation and also amelioration at seashore like Ars., Kali-i., Mag-m., Med., Nat-m., Nat-s., Sep and Syphilinum. all have aggravation at seashore. Syphilinum has amelioration by mountain air which is not found in Kent’s Repertory. Some children and even adults who are allergic near or around horses need Pothos and near cats: Felix.

Apart from objective symptoms we have to pay more attention on causative factors and family history for the easy selection of remedies. Now a days Aluminum poisoning is present in many cases because of sing pressure cookers and aluminum. Therefore, Alumina becomes a very useful remedy in such cases. It has rattling and wheezing and is worse by condiments. Another remedy not frequently used is Hippozaenium which is a nosode very useful as an intercurrent remedy.

Intercurrent remedies play a pivotal role in managing bronchial asthma, especially in cases where chronic miasmatic influences hinder progress. Remedies like Tuberculinum and Carcinocin are often employed to address underlying susceptibilities and prevent recurrent respiratory conditions. Tuberculinum is particularly effective in cases with a history of frequent colds descending to the chest, emaciation despite good appetite, and a longing for open air. Similarly, Carcinocin is valuable for individuals with a family history of tuberculosis, cancer, or anemia, and those prone to recurrent pneumonia or whooping cough. These remedies act by addressing the miasmatic background, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of asthma episodes. Additionally, Natrum sulphuricum and Thuja occidentalis are indispensable in Sycotic cases, where damp weather or humid conditions exacerbate symptoms. By integrating intercurrent remedies into treatment plans, practitioners can achieve more comprehensive and lasting results in asthma management.

Conclusion

Through a comprehensive exploration of asthma’s miasmatic background, this article underscores the importance of addressing constitutional susceptibility for achieving lasting relief. The integration of objective symptoms and family history with miasmatic considerations paves the way for effective homeopathic management. By revisiting historical insights and remedies, the article highlights how a deeper understanding of asthma’s roots can lead to improved outcomes, particularly in challenging pediatric cases.

Authors:

Dr. Priyanka Shroff, Professor of Organon of Medicine and Homoeopathic Philosophy, Rajkot Homoeopathic Medical Collage, Parul University, Gujrat, India
Dr. Mital Kacha, Assistant Professor of Organon of Medicine and Homoeopathic Philosophy, Rajkot Homoeopathic Medical Collage, Parul University, Gujrat, India
Dr. Urvi Dhokiya, PG Scholar Part – 2 Department of Organon of Medicine, Rajkot Homoeopathic Medical Collage, Parul University, Gujrat, India

Reference

Hahnemann, Samuel. Organon of Medicine. The foundational text for understanding homeopathic philosophy.
Kent, J.T. Lectures on Homeopathic Philosophy. A key resource for insights into miasma and chronic diseases.
Close, S. (1981). The genius of homeopathy.
Farrington, Ernest. Clinical Materia Medica. Discusses remedies and practical applications in conditions like asthma.
Boericke, William. Boericke’s Materia Medica with Repertory. Essential for the study of remedies like Natrum sulphuricum, Thuja, and others mentioned.
Clarke, John Henry. A Dictionary of Practical Materia Medica. Comprehensive information on remedies and their applications.

Asthma and its Homoeopathic Management

Posted on January 5, 2024April 12, 2025 by Dr. Urvi

This article is from International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews
Journal homepage: www.ijrpr.com ISSN 2582-7421

Abstract

The most common respiratory condition is asthma. Most asthma patients have poor management of their condition, even with significant improvements in diagnosis and treatment. For most patients, strategies for avoidance and suitable medications may help attain control. Eosinophil-dominated inflammation is a feature of the most frequent type of asthma. The excellent cure for asthma in homeopathy. The proper diagnosis and treatment of asthma are discussed in this article.

Introduction
The Greek word “aazein” from which the term “asthma “is derived, means to pant or to breathe sharply and openly. It is a major non-communicable disease that is quite prevalent. It is also known as bronchial asthma and is characterized as a long-term inflammatory condition affecting the airways. Chronic inflammation is connected to airway hyperresponsiveness, which causes exaggerated airway narrowing in response to certain triggers like viruses, allergens, and exercise. This results in recurrent episodes of breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness and coughing that can vary in duration and intensity.
Episodes of symptoms are typically linked to a widespread but varied airflow obstruction inside the lungs, which is typically reversible either spontaneously or with proper asthma medication, like a quick acting bronchodilator.

Epidemiology
Asthma is the 28th biggest source of disease burden globally and the 16th leading cause of years lived with disability, according to disability adjusted life years. Around 300 million people worldwide suffer from asthma, and it’s estimated that another 100 million will be impacted by it by 2025. Even though
high-income countries have a higher prevalence of asthma, low- and middle-Income countries have the highest asthma related mortality rates. Children (8.4%) are more likely than adults (7.7%) to have it. The incidence is highest in boys (2:1 male to female ratio) among young children, while it tends to
be higher in women as adults. A study on the global burden of disease estimates that over 30 million people in India suffer from asthma and that 70 percent of these cases remain undiagnosed.

Types of asthma
Basically, three types of asthma are distinguished depending are the triggers:

Allergic (Extrinsic) asthma: Allergic asthma is an allergic reaction of the body to inherently harmless substances such as pollen, pet hair, certain foods or house dust, results in allergic asthma. It is the form of asthma that is most prevalent. It is the prevalent chronic disease in childhood.
The body’s immune system reacts to environmental allergens, which could cause an asthma attack. This causes lower respiratory inflammation, which causes the airways to become narrower and produce more mucus. Type 2 inflammation is the name of the process. Specific biomarkers can identify type 2 inflammation, which is a feature of asthma.
Non-allergic asthma: Nonspecific stimuli, rather than allergens, cause asthma in non-allergic people. These include some medications, such as pain relievers, cold air, tension, and respiratory tract infections. Exercise has the potential to trigger an asthma attack. This is called exercise induced asthma.
This is because asthmaticus have chronically inflamed airways and inflamed tissue reacts to stimuli more hyper sensitively than healthy individuals who have asthma. An asthma episode brought on by extreme stress or exercise and brought on by hyoerventilation. Sinusitis is a common sign of non-allergic asthma. Non- allergic asthma typically has a more severe course than allergic asthma.
Mixed type: Asthma that combines both allergic and non-allergic symptoms is called mixed asthma. The most typical type of asthma is this
one.

Etiology
Although it is frequently challenging to identify a single, direct cause, many factors have been linked to an increased risk of having asthma.

Genetic factors- The genetic component may play a role in whether an individual will develop asthma during their lifetime. If a close relative,
such as a parent or sibling, also has asthma, that person will also get asthma.
Environmental factors-Both indoor and outdoor air pollution can have an impact on asthma development and act as asthma triggers.
Some allergens inside and outside the house include:
- Mold
- Dust
- Animal hair and dander
- Fumes from household cleaners and paints
- Cockroaches
- Pollen
- Air pollution from traffic and other sources
Obesity- Both in children and adults, obesity is a risk factor for asthma
Stress- Asthma symptoms can be triggered by stress, but a few other emotions, including joy, rage, excitement, laughter, and sobbing, can also do the
same. Asthma can also be a result of worry and despair.
Smoking tobacco- Using tobacco products can aggravate asthma symptoms. Additionally, exposure to secondhand smoke can harm the lungs as well.
Pregnancy- Smoking during pregnancy seems to increase the chance that the fetus will grow up with asthma. While pregnant, some people also
experience an aggravated case of asthma.

Pathophysiology
Asthma is associated with T-helper cell type-2 (Th2) immune responses, which are typical of other conditions. Elevated levels of Th2 cells in the airways release specific cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-13, and promote eosinophilic inflammation and IgE production.
IgE production in turn triggers the release of inflammatory mediators, such as histamine and cysteine leukotrienes, that cause bronchospasm, edema and increase mucus secretion. The mediators and cytokines released during the early phase of an immune response to an inciting trigger further propagate the inflammatory response that leads to progressive airway inflammation and bronchial hyper reactivity. Over time the airway remodeling that occurs with frequent asthma and exacerbation leads to greater lung function decline and more severe obstruction.

Clinical features

Restless, agitated, anxious, sweating.
Cyanosis
Breathlessness
Wheezing
Tightness in the chest
General ill feeling and fatigue
Cough usually nonproductive and is followed by wheeze.
Eyes itching and lachrymation.

Laboratory investigation
The diagnosis of asthma should not be made using conventional laboratory testing, but it can be used to rule out other causes of wheezing. Patients who
have a history of having an allergic trigger repeatedly may experience elevated serum IgE levels.

Blood investigation:
- Serum IgE- Total serum IgE levels greater than 100 IU.
- Blood eosinophilia greater than 4% or 300-400µ/L
X-Ray– Hyperinflated lungs
High resolution computed tomography (HRCT)- Bronchial wall thickening, bronchial dilatation, cylindrical and various bronchiectasis,
reduced airway luminal area, mucoid impaction of bronchi, centriolar opacities, air tapping.
Allergy skin test- Two methods are available to test allergic sensitivity to specific allergens in the environment: allergy skin test and blood radioallergosorbent test (RASTs).
Pulmonary function test: It is usually confirmed by objective measurement of lung function by spirometry.
- FEV1 ≥ 15% increase following administration of bronchodilator.
  or
- FEV1 ≥ 15% decrease after 6 minutes of exercise.

Differential diagnosis

COPD
Congestive cardiac failure
Recurrent pneumonia
Chronic bronchitis
Tracheal stenosis
Aspiration (foreign body aspiration)
Eosinophilic pneumonia

Management
Although asthma cannot be cured, symptoms can usually be reduced. When triggers are removed, and medicine is used.

Lifestyle modification: Lifestyle modification therapies like swimming, exercise, and yoga have an important and powerful role in the
treatment of asthma. Unfortunately, there is very little use of these therapies, (exercise, yoga, swimming, and stress avoidance.) as compared
to taking drugs for treatment of the asthma.
Medications: There are two broad categories of medications used to treat asthma.
- (a) Quick-relief medication: For rapid relief, take this as soon as you notice the first sign of asthma symptoms. They include:
  - Short acting inhaled beta 2 agonist (inhalers)
  - Anticholinergics
- Both are bronchodilators, which means that they widen the bronchial tubes leading to the lungs. This enhances breathing by allowing the lungs to breathe more air in and out. Additionally, they aid in clearing phlegm from the lungs, allowing phlegm to travel more freely and be coughed out more readily.
- (b) Long term control medication- These are used daily to avoid asthma symptoms and attacks.
  - Inhaled corticosteroids which include fluticasone, budesonide, mometasone these corticosteroids are among best asthma medications available since they are well tolerated, safe and effective.
  - Long-acting inhaled beta2 agonists (when paired with an inhaled corticosteroid, never given alone, but very helpful on its own). These include salmeterol, formoterol and vilanterol.

The long-term control drugs lessen airways inflammation and help alleviate asthma symptoms.

Homoeopathic treatment for asthma
According to the WHO, homoeopathy is the second most popular form of medical therapy. Asthma is treated with it, which is one of the most popular and divisive complementary medical practices. Furthermore, systematic review found that there aren’t many good randomized controlled trials in homoeopathy. According to fundamental principle of homoeopathy SIMILIA SIMLIBUS CURANTER some less effective and constitutional medicines which cover the maximum symptoms of patients and cure are possible.

Aletris Farinose- Short, dry, and tickling cough worse on walking and talking; discharge of urine during cough; cough suddenly relieved by menstruation.
Ailanthus glandulosa- Deep dry and hacking cough, with asthmatic expansion of lungs; cough with headache and congestion of face.
Ephedra vulgaris- Mother tincture is used to control asthmatic attack; in reduced doses it is also helpful in pulmonary heart disease.
Pothos foetidus- A clinically useful drug in allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma < dust. Acts better in Q potencies. Asthma is worse from any inhalation of dust.
Arsenic album- Anguish and restlessness. Can’t lie down for fear of suffocation, asthma worse midnight, burning in chest, air passages, constricted cough dry, as from Sulphur fumes.
Natrum sulph- Dyspnea, desire to take a deep breath during damp, cloudy weather. Humid asthma in children, with every change to wet weather, sputa green and copious.
Antimonium tartricum- Rapid, short difficult breathing seems as if he would suffocate must sit up. Large collection of mucus in the bronchi, it seems as if much would be expectorated, but nothing comes up.
Grindelia robusta- Stop breathing when falling asleep, wakes with a star. Cannot breathe when lying down. Cheyne strokes respiration. Dyspnea with foamy mucous with profuse, tenacious expectoration.
Blatta orientalis- Asthma associated with bronchitis, bronchitis with cough and dyspnea. Cough with pus like expectoration. Cough associated with dyspnea. Suffocation is threatened with profuse expectoration.
Cassia sophera- Rattling in the throat without phlegmatic expulsion. Dyspnea of winter aggravation. The complaint aggravates after exposure to dust, change of weather, cold drinks, smoke, exertion. Hoarseness of voice and cough with pain in chest. Asthma is associated with itching.
Aspidosperma- Aspidosperma is considered a tonic for lungs. This medicine removes temporary obstruction of the oxidation of blood by stimulating respiratory centers. It is useful in cardiac asthma.
Justicia adhatoda- Constricting pain across the chest during asthma. Cough associated with hemoptysis after severe dyspnea. Expectoration is yellowish in color the complaints worse when lying on left side. Patient may have dry cough with hoarseness of voice. Cough is associated with sneezing. There is a fever with asthma. Chill in the evening and sweat in the night during fever.

Miasmatic classification
A homoeopath must be aware of the nature of the underlying cause of asthma. both the primary cause of asthma, which is generally chronic miasma, and its allergic triggers. a genetic basis that is syphilitic and typically acquired a psora origin. Every miasm has unique signs of its own that are essential to the entire set of symptoms.

Symptoms	Psora	Pseudo psora	Sycotic	Syphilitic
Sneezing	+
Wheezing	+	+
Cough	+	+
Expectoration	+	+
Shortness of breath	+
Chest tightness	+	+		+
Cyanosis	+	+		+
Tiredness, weakness	+

Conclusion
The classical homoeopathic approach is possibly the most common for chronic conditions like asthma. Each patient’s individual and subjective symptoms affect the treatment strategy that is taken. Complementary medicine based on “curing like with like “is called homoeopathy. To increase the body’s natura healing response (vital force). The effect of medication and consultation, which are considered essential components of individualized homoeopathic treatment in asthma.

Authors:
1) Dr. Pankaj Sharma – HOD of organon of Medicine and Philosophy, Swasthya Kalyan Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Center, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Email: drpankajskhmc@gmail.com
2) Dr. Harish Jabdoliya – Associate Professor of Organon of Medicine and Philosophy, Swasthya Kalyan Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Center, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India Email: harish10jabdoliya@gmail.com
3) Dr. Ankita Sharma – PGR at Organon of Medicine and Philosophy, Swasthya Kalyan Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Center, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Email: 28shankita@gmail.com
4) Dr. Kanak Choudhary – PGR at organon of Medicine and Philosophy, Swasthya Kalyan Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Center, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Email: kanakchaudhary3012@gmail.com
5) Dr. Sonu Chaudhary – PGR at organon of Medicine and Philosophy, Swasthya Kalyan Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Center, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Email: sonuallen153@gmail.com

References

Global initiative for asthma – GINA. (2016, January 9). Global Initiative for Asthma – GINA. http://www.ginasthma.
Braunwald, E. (2001). Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine (15th ed.). McGraw-Hill Publishing.
Network GA.The Global Asthma Report, Auckland, New Zealand (2023, December 1)
Vivatmo. (n.d.). Vivatmo. Retrieved December 1 2023, from http://www.vivatmo.com
Health news – medical news today. (n.d.). Medicalnewstoday.com. Retrieved December 1, 2023, from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com
Walker BR, College NR, Ralston SH, Penman I, editors. Davidson’s principles and practice of medicine. 22nd ed. Churchill Livingstone; 2014. P.g.666
Khanna M. Self-assessment & review medicine: Parts A & B. 13th ed. New Delhi, India: Jaypee Brothers Medical; 2019.
R. Alagappan, manual of practical medicine 4th edition, Jaypee brothers’ medical publishers (p) LTD
Kemper, Kathi J Mitchell R. Lester. Alternative asthma therapies: An evidence-based review. Contemporary paediatrics. 1999,16.3: 162-195
Sharma B. Narula RH, Manchanda RK.homeopathy for the management of asthma. A review of Council clinical research In-dian J Res Homeopathy (2023 December 1) 69-78:14
Kent JT. Lectures on Homeopathic Philosophy (1900). Literary Licensing; 2014.
Dewey WA. Practical homeopathic therapeutics: 3Rd edition. 3rd ed. New Delhi, India: B Jain; 2023. P. g. 360
Boericke w. Homoeopathic materia medica Dr R. G. Miasmatic table.6th edition of organon of medicine.
Koster D. Concept for a study with the title: Study into the effect of methodology of the homeopathic treatment on the course of asthma: a double
blind placebo-controlled time- series survey with internal comparison. Abstract of the 3rd ECH-RF meeting Vienna 29/30th April 1994.

Article link: https://ijrpr.com/uploads/V5ISSUE1/IJRPR21656.pdf

Homoeopathic Approach In Female Infertility

Posted on September 5, 2023April 12, 2025 by Dr. Urvi

This article is from the Tantia University Journal of Homoeopathy and Medical Science (https://tjhms.com) E-ISSN: 2581-8899, P-ISSN: 2581-978X

Abstract

Infertility is the inability of a couple to achieve conception after one year of unprotected coitus. Today almost one in six couples face difficulty in conceiving. Homoeopathy is often effective in curing in- fertility where conventional medicine either fails or is expensive or requires operative procedures and hormonal therapy with their added complication and side effects. By this review article we want to evaluate the efficacy of homoeopathic constitutional similimum in the management of female infertility.

Introduction

The prevalence of female infertility is rising quickly among Indians, which is also indicative of what is happening globally. Nearly one in six couples today has trouble getting pregnant (ref). After one year of unprotected coitus, infertility is the failure of a couple to conceive. Ovulatory dysfunction accounts for between 36 and 44% of infertility in womenii. One of the most common diseases affecting women during their fertile years is endometriosis. In addition to surgical and medical procedures, hormonal therapies, etc.

Homeopathy is a holistic form of medicine that treats the whole person in order to treat disease. They can correct hormonal system misalignments and return them to normal. The straightforward homeopathic process efficiently and efficiently omits the laborious steps that come after the standard infertility treatments.

To be more precise, a complete hormonal balance significantly raises the likelihood of conception without the negative side effects of drugs, devices, or invasive procedures. Infertility is described as the inability to conceive despite engaging in routine unprotected sex for a year or longer.

Types:

Infertility comes in primary or secondary forms. Secondary infertility happens when at least one prior pregnancy has been achieved, whereas primary infertility happens when a person has never had a pregnancy.

ETIOLOGY
Ovulatory Dysfunction: Primary hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction (caused by stress, Sheehan’s syndrome, pituitary adenoma, or other pituitary tumors, among other things), intense exercise, eating disorders, and other factors. Polycystic ovary syndrome, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, hyperprolactinemia, hormone-producing tumors of the ovary or adrenal glands, Cushing’s disease, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and hormonal imbalances brought on by autoimmune, genetic, surgical, idiopathic, drug, or radiation-related conditions.

Fallopian tube anomalies: Proximal tubal blockage is brought on by mucus plugs, amorphous debris, or uterotubal ostium spasm. Distal tubal obstruction causes hydrosalpinxes, which in turn prevents sperm from migrating and causes tubal contents to flow backward into the endometrial cavity, creating an unfavourable environment for embryo implantation.

Pelvic Adhesions: Pathogens like Chlamydial or Gonorrhoea, Endometriosis, Pelvic Tuberculosis, etc. cause this inflammatory disease in the pelvis. Uterine fibroids include intramural, submucosal, subserosa, and pedunculated fibroids. Causes of uterine anomalies include Mullerian aplasia, septate uterus, endometrial polyps, and synechiae from previous pregnancy-related curettage.
Endometriosis disrupts and impairs oocyte release, alters sperm motility, causes disordered myometrial contractions, and hinders fertilization and embryo development through pelvic adhesions.

Turner’s syndrome, Down syndrome, Spinal Muscular Dystrophy, Canavan Disease, and Kallmann Syndrome are examples of genetic factors.

Symptoms

The couple’s inability to conceive is the main sign of infertility. A menstrual cycle that is excessively long (35 days or more), excessively short (less than 21 days), irregular, or non-existent may be a sign that ovulation has not occurred, which is a factor in female infertility. There might be no additional visible symptoms or signs.

Due to her inability to conceive, a woman dealing with infertility may experience emotional changes and depression. There is a significant psychological impact of infertility. Being infertile carries a stigma in many cultures. The individual dealing with this problem begins to feel excluded from her group, which further contributes to depression, anxiety, and stress.

Investigations

To rule out pelvic pathology using ultrasound.
Hysterosalpingography: to determine the fallopian tube’s patency.
To examine the uterus and the tube for any pathology, a laparoscopy is performed

Repertorial Approach

Kent repertory
- STERILITY: copious menstrual flow, from:
Repertory of Hering guiding symptoms of our Materia Medica
- STERILITY:
- too early and too profuse menses
- with late or profuse menses
- no menses or sexual desire
- too profuse menses
- with tendency to miscarry
- caused by discharge of mucus
- from vagina after an embrace,
- from atony of ovaries,
- from excessive sexual indulgence,
- from uterine atony
Boenninghausen characteristics Materia Medica and repertory
- Barrenness, sterility
Perfect repertory of mind
- SADNESS, sterility, from:
A Concise Repertory of Homoeopathic Medicine by Dr.S R Phatak
- STERILITY
- Acid vaginal secretion, from
- Atrophy of mammae and ovary, from:
- Excessive sexual desire, from :
- Menses, copious, from
- Non retention of semen, from :
- Ovarian atony, from:
- Sycotic:
- Weakness, from :
The Concordance Repertory of Materia Medica – William D Gentry
- Sterility.-
- Menses too early and too profuse.
- with premature and profuse menses; weak feeling in genitals.
- from uterine atony
- depression of spirits
- with leucorrhoea
- caused by sexual excesses
- from uterine catarrh
- absence of desire
- from atony of ovaries.
- with chronic ovaritis; soreness and great sensitiveness
- with menses suppressed
- with too scanty menses
- with retarded menses
- Discharge of mucus after coition causing
- Sterility (see section on Uterus).-
- on account of profuse leucorrhoea
- Dysmenorrhea with
- Menses too profuse, with

Homeopathic Therapeutics

ACID PHOS- Acid Phos is a fantastic treatment for primary sterility brought on by incapacitating conditions like diabetes and tuberculosis. Menstruation is too early, excessive, and irregular. The PH of vaginal secretion changes to an acidic form, which causes sperm deposited there to quickly perish. Disinterested and despondent.
AGNUS CASTUS- Agnus castus is a potent treatment for infertility in women who have diminished sex drives. When there is a sex aversion, Agnus Castus is used. It’s possible that this is caused by excessive masturbation. Additionally relaxed, there are clear vaginal discharges.
ALETRIS FARINOSA Q- The main symptoms of Aletris Farinosa are early and heavy periods coupled with infertility. Menorrhagia can also be accompanied by leucorrhoea, anemia, weakness, and persistent exhaustion. Additionally, Aletris Farinosa is prescribed when a person has a propensity for frequent abortions and promotes conception.
AROMA RADIX- When an irregular menstrual disorder occurs, a good treatment for female infertility. Dysmenorrhea. The menstrual flow can be light or heavy. Give 5 drops in water three times per day starting on the first day of menstruation for seven days. If sexual activity is performed after the menses have stopped, it will correct menstrual irregularity.
BORAX- One of the most effective homoeopathic treatments for female infertility brought on by acid vaginal

Author: Dr. Urvi