Friday 1 March 2024

BOERHAVIA DIFFUSA MOTHER TINCTURE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION

 RETROSPECTIVE CASE ANALYSIS ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BOERHAVIA DIFFUSA MOTHER TINCTURE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION


ABSTRACT

Background: Hypertension is a prevalent medical condition with significant health implications. This retrospective case record analysis aimed to investigate the efficacy of Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture in managing hypertension. The study utilized data from diverse healthcare settings affiliated with Sivaraj Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Institute, Salem.

Methods: A total of 30 cases meeting the inclusion criteria, comprising both sexes aged between 30 to 75 years, diagnosed with hypertension based on clinical parameters (systolic BP >140 mmHg, diastolic BP >90 mmHg), and presenting common symptoms, were included. Exclusion criteria encompassed cases of secondary hypertension and those with incomplete follow-ups. The efficacy of Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture was assessed by changes in blood pressure recorded during the treatment period. The study adhered to ethical guidelines, and all patients received Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture as part of their therapeutic regimen.

Results and Discussion: Among the 30 cases analyzed, 6 patients exhibited marked improvement, 10 demonstrated moderate improvement, and 10 showed mild improvement, while 4 cases showed no improvement. Notably, the majority of patients experienced marked symptomatic relief. Despite the positive trend observed in the outcomes, the study has limitations, including a small sample size and the absence of a control group. The lack of detailed information on dosage and treatment duration further restricts the generalizability of the findings. The retrospective nature of the analysis introduces potential biases, and confounding factors such as lifestyle changes were not systematically addressed.

Conclusion: This retrospective case record analysis suggests a potential beneficial effect of Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture in managing hypertension. The majority of patients experienced symptomatic relief, although caution is warranted due to study limitations. Future research, including well-designed randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes, is needed to establish the efficacy and safety of Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture in hypertensive patients.

KEY WORDS: Boerhavia Diffusa, Hypertension, Homoeopathy


INTRODUCTION

Hypertension, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a global health concern, affects over 1 billion people worldwide, according to a 2014 report. The implications of hypertension extend beyond elevated blood pressure, substantially increasing the risk of heart failure by two to three-fold. Remarkably, approximately 25% of all heart failure cases are attributed to hypertension, with the condition preceding heart failure in 90% of instances, particularly among the elderly population. In 2004, hypertensive heart disease accounted for an estimated 1.0 million deaths globally, representing approximately 1.7% of all deaths and ranking 13th among the leading global causes of mortality across all age groups.,,,

The South-East Asia Region grapples with a significant burden of hypertension, affecting one out of every three adults. This prevalent condition, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and globalization leading to the adoption of unhealthy lifestyles, stands as the leading risk factor for mortality in the region. Claiming nearly 1.5 million lives annually, high blood pressure underscores the urgent need for effective management strategies. , Within the realm of holistic healthcare, homeopathy presents a promising avenue for addressing hypertension's multifaceted nature. Boerhavia diffusa mother tincture, with its distinctive symptom profile encompassing hypertension, palpitations, throbbing pain in the cardiac region, giddiness, and right-sided headaches, emerges as a potentially effective remedy. This article delves into further research exploring the efficacy of Boerhavia diffusa mother tincture in the management of essential hypertension, emphasizing the importance of its judicious use under the guidance of a qualified homeopathic physician.

Remedy Profile: Boerhavia diffusa

Boerhaavia diffusa, as a remedy, exhibits notable efficacy in addressing hypertension, encompassing symptoms ranging from mild to severe. The remedy is distinguished by its ability to target various systemic manifestations of hypertension, including vertigo, cardiac symptoms, and water retention. Patients presenting with right-sided headaches and abdominal pain find relief through Boerhaavia diffusa, making it a valuable consideration for those experiencing these specific manifestations.8,

Beyond its impact on hypertension, Boerhaavia diffusa demonstrates effectiveness in alleviating diverse symptoms. It plays a significant role in reducing giddiness, mitigating the swelling of eyelids, and providing relief in cases of asthma and heart troubles. The remedy's comprehensive approach to addressing not only hypertension but also associated symptoms such as headaches and abdominal pain underscores its potential as a versatile therapeutic option. These distinctive features contribute to Boerhaavia diffusa's profile as a valuable homeopathic remedy in managing a spectrum of conditions associated with hypertension, offering a holistic approach to patient care.,,,

METHODS

Study Design: This retrospective case record analysis was conducted at Sivaraj Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Institute, Salem, utilizing data from various sources, including Outpatient Department (OPD), Inpatient Department (IPD), peripheral centers, rural health camps, and medical camps conducted by the institution.

Source of Data: The case records from diverse healthcare settings affiliated with Sivaraj Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Institute were systematically screened for inclusion in the study. A total of 30 cases meeting the specified inclusion criteria were selected for further analysis.

Inclusion Criteria: 1. Demographics: The study included both sexes with ages ranging from 30 to 75 years. 2. Diagnostic Criteria: Patients were included based on clinical parameters, specifically systolic blood pressure (BP) greater than 140 mmHg and diastolic BP greater than 90 mmHg. 3. Symptoms: Only patients presenting with common symptoms were included. 4. Treatment: Patients who were administered Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture as part of their treatment were considered for the study.

Exclusion Criteria: 1. Secondary Hypertension: Cases with secondary hypertension were excluded from the study to ensure a homogenous study population. 2. Incomplete Follow-ups: Cases with incomplete follow-ups were excluded to maintain data integrity and reliability.

Criteria for Assessment: The primary endpoint for assessing the efficacy of Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture was determined by changes in blood pressure levels recorded during the course of treatment. The evaluation focused on alterations in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements. These criteria were essential in gauging the impact of Boerhaavia diffusa on the hypertensive condition, forming the basis for the categorization of patients into different levels of improvement, as outlined in the results.

Treatment Protocol: All included patients received treatment with Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture as part of their therapeutic regimen apart from the indicated single remedy. The dosage, frequency, and duration of treatment varied cases to case from 10 drops once a day to 20 drops thrice a day.

Ethical Considerations: The study adhered to ethical guidelines, maintaining patient confidentiality and ensuring that the retrospective nature of the analysis did not compromise the well-being of the individuals involved. As it involved the review of existing case records, informed consent from patients might have been obtained during routine clinical practice.

Results and Discussion:

The retrospective case record analysis of 30 eligible cases aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture in patients with hypertension. The inclusion criteria were carefully defined, including both sexes with ages ranging from 30 to 75 years, diagnosed based on clinical parameters of elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure (>140/90 mmHg), and presenting with common symptoms. The patients were treated with Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture, and the outcomes were categorized into four levels of improvement: No improvement, Mild improvement, Moderate improvement, and Marked improvement.

The results indicate a positive trend in the overall response to Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture (Table & Figure). Among the 30 cases analyzed, 6 patients showed marked improvement, 10 demonstrated moderate improvement, and 10 exhibited mild improvement. However, 4 cases did not show any improvement in symptoms. Notably, the majority of the patients experienced marked symptomatic relief according to the case records.

S.No.

                         Result

     Frequency

    %

1

No improvement

4

13.30%

2

Mild improvement

10

33.30%

3

Moderate improvement

10

33.30%

4

Marked improvement

6

20%

 

Total

30

100%

Table: Distribution of Improvement Levels in Response to Boerhaavia Diffusa Mother Tincture Treatment

The table presents the distribution of improvement levels observed in a cohort of 30 patients undergoing treatment with Boerhaavia Diffusa mother tincture. The results are categorized into four levels: No improvement, Mild improvement, Moderate improvement, and Marked improvement. The total number of patients in each improvement category is provided, offering a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic outcomes observed in the study.

This pie chart visually represents the distribution of improvement levels among 30 patients treated with Boerhaavia Diffusa mother tincture. The chart illustrates the percentage breakdown of patients in each category: No improvement, Mild improvement, Moderate improvement, and Marked improvement. The visual depiction offers a clear and concise representation of the therapeutic responses observed in the study.

It is important to consider the limitations of the study, such as the relatively small sample size and the absence of a control group. The absence of a control group makes it challenging to establish a direct causal relationship between the administration of Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture and the observed improvements. Additionally, other potential confounding factors, such as lifestyle changes or concomitant medications, were not systematically addressed in this retrospective analysis. Further comprehensive prospective studies are warranted.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the results of this retrospective case record analysis suggest a potential beneficial effect of Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture in the management of hypertension. The majority of patients experienced symptomatic relief, with a significant proportion showing marked improvement. However, it is essential to interpret these findings cautiously due to the study's limitations, including the absence of a control group and the relatively small sample size.

Future research endeavors should include well-designed randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes to provide more robust evidence on the efficacy and safety of Boerhaavia diffusa mother tincture in hypertensive patients. Additionally, incorporating objective measures, such as blood pressure monitoring and standardized assessment tools, will enhance the reliability and generalizability of the findings. Overall, this preliminary analysis provides valuable insights, encouraging further investigation into the potential role of Boerhaavia diffusa in the management of hypertension.


Figure: Distribution of Improvement Levels in Response to Boerhaavia Diffusa Mother Tincture Treatment





Tuesday 27 February 2024

SCIENTIFIC VALIDITY OF EFFICACY OF HOMOEOPATHIC HAIR CARE MANAGEMENT

 Abstract 

 

Homoeopathy is considered as one of the very best alternative system for treating hair loss. Hair loss can affect scalp or entire body. It can be the result of heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions or medications. Anyone like men, women and children can experience hair loss. Baldness typically refers to excessive hair loss from scalp. Hereditary hair loss with age is the most common cause of baldness. Some people prefer to let their baldness run its course untreated and unhidden. 

Introduction

 

Hair is almost like a social status for both men and women, and also children. It is society’s expectation that you will have a head of hair! Hair states ones personality and adds additional beauty. Hair is a statement about yourself, how you have your hair. Women who desire to be beautiful almost always start with their hair. There’s nothing more stunning than long, shiny, healthy hair! Elegant and versatile, long hair gives women many options when it comes to styling and creating new looks. Even though the hair is a dead tissue, it suffers from numerous hazards mirroring hair problems. Everyone who desire to be beautiful and takes hair care should understand the basics of hair.

Most people normally shed 50 to 100 hairs a day. This usually doesn't cause noticeable thinning of scalp hair because new hair is growing in at the same time. Hair loss occurs when this cycle of hair growth and shedding is disrupted or when the hair follicle is destroyed and replaced with scar tissue.Hair loss can appear in many different ways, depending on what's causing it. It can come on suddenly or gradually. Some types of hair loss are temporary, and others are permanent.

Causes of Alopecia

The exact cause of hair loss may not be fully understood, but it's usually related to one or more of the following factors: Family history (heredity), Hormonal changes, Medical conditions, Medications

Family history - The most common cause of hair loss is a hereditary condition called male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness. It usually occurs gradually and in predictable patterns — a receding hairline and bald spots in men and thinning hair in women. Heredity also affects the age at which begin to lose hair, the rate of hair loss and the extent of baldness. Pattern baldness is most common in men and can begin as early as puberty. This type of hair loss may involve both hair thinning and miniaturization (hair becomes soft, fine and short).

Hormonal changes and medical conditions - A variety of conditions can cause hair loss, including: Hormonal changes and imbalances can cause temporary hair loss. This could be due to pregnancy, childbirth or the onset of menopause. Hormone levels are also affected by the thyroid gland, so thyroid problems may cause hair loss.

Patchy hair loss - This type of nonscarring hair loss is called alopecia areata. It occurs when the body's immune system attacks hair follicles — causing sudden hair loss that leaves smooth, roundish bald patches on the skin.

Scalp infections - Infections, such as ringworm, can invade the hair and skin of your scalp, leading to scaly patches and hair loss. Once infections are treated, hair generally grows back.

Other skin disorders - Diseases that cause scarring alopecia may result in permanent loss at the scarred areas. These conditions include lichen planus, some types of lupus and sarcoidosis.

Hair-pulling disorder - This condition, also called trichotillomania, causes people to have an irresistible urge to pull out their hair, whether it's from the scalp, the eyebrows or other areas of the body.

Medications - Hair loss can be caused by drugs used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, high blood pressure and birth control. Intake of too much vitamin A may cause hair loss as well.

Hair loss can also result from Radiation therapy to the head. The hair may not grow back the same as it was before.

Many people experience a general thinning of hair several months after a physical or emotional shock. This type of hair loss is temporary. Examples of trigger events include sudden or excessive weight loss, a high fever, surgery, or a death in the family.

Certain hairstyles and treatments. Excessive hairstyling or hairstyles that pull your hair tight, such as pigtails or cornrows, can cause traction alopecia. Hot oil hair treatments and permanents can cause inflammation of hair follicles that leads to hair loss. If scarring occurs, hair loss could be permanent.

Clinical Presentation

 

Hair loss can appear in many different ways, depending on what's causing it. It can come on suddenly or gradually. Some types of hair loss are temporary, and others are permanent.

Signs and symptoms of hair loss may include:

Gradual thinning on top of head. This is the most common type of hair loss, affecting both men and women as they age. In men, hair often begins to recede from the forehead in a line that resembles the letter M. Women typically retain the hairline on the forehead but have a broadening of the part in their hair.

Circular or patchy bald spots. Some people experience smooth, coin-sized bald spots. This type of hair loss usually affects just the scalp, but it sometimes also occurs in beards or eyebrows. In some cases, your skin may become itchy or painful before the hair falls out.

Sudden loosening of hair. A physical or emotional shock can cause hair to loosen. Handfuls of hair may come out when combing or washing your hair or even after gentle tugging. This type of hair loss usually causes overall hair thinning and not bald patches.

Full-body hair loss. Some conditions and medical treatments, such as chemotherapy for cancer, can result in the loss of hair all over your body. The hair usually grows back.

Patches of scaling that spread over the scalp. This is a sign of ringworm. It may be accompanied by broken hair, redness, swelling and, at times, oozing.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis made with help of physical exam, medical history, and family history and with some tests.

Blood test - This may help uncover medical conditions related to hair loss, such as thyroid disease.

Pull test - gently pulls several dozen hairs to see how many come out. This helps determine the stage of the shedding process.

Scalp biopsy - scrapes samples from the skin or from a few hairs plucked from the scalp to examine the hair roots. This can help determine whether an infection is causing hair loss.

Light microscopy - Microscopy helps uncover possible disorders of the hair shaft and to examine hairs trimmed at their bases.

MANAGEMENT

These tips may help avoid preventable types of hair loss:

· Eat a nutritionally balanced diet.

· Avoid tight hairstyles, such as braids, buns or ponytails.

· Avoid compulsively twisting, rubbing or pulling your hair.

· Treat your hair gently when washing and brushing. A wide-toothed comb may help prevent pulling out hair.

· Avoid harsh treatments such as hot rollers, curling irons, hot oil treatments and permanents.

· A good daily multivitamin containing zinc, vitamin B, folate, iron, and calcium is a reasonable choice, although there is no good evidence that vitamins have any meaningful benefit in alopecia. Newer studies suggest that vitamin D may be somewhat helpful and worth considering. Specific vitamin and mineral deficiencies like iron or vitamin B12 may be diagnosed by blood tests and treated.

· Multiple vitamins, including biotin, have been promoted for hair growth, but solid scientific studies for many of these claims are lacking. 

Home natural remedies

 

· Onion Juice for hair growth - This remedy is regarded as one of most effective and oldest ones. The reason behind is that it contains sulphur that boosts collagen production in the tissues and helps in the re-growth of hair. Don’t let its strong smell keep you away from using it, because it goes off just after one rinse. To try this remedy, cut a few slices of onion and squeeze out its juice (either by mashing it or grating it) and apply it on your scalp for about 10-15 minutes. Let it work its magic and then rinse it off with a mild shampoo.

· Coconut Milk - it is rich in iron, potassium and essential fats, take coconut milk from a fresh coconut, to it add half a squeeze of lemon, 4 drops of essential lavender oil. Mix it thoroughly and apply it on your scalp, leave it on for 4-5 hours and then rinse it off.”

· Apple Cider Vinegar – This vinegar gently cleanses the scalp and maintains the pH balance of the hair thereby accelerating hair growth.  Start for making a diluted solution by mixing 75ml of it in one litre of water for a larger batch or 15 ml of it to a cup of warm filtered water for a smaller batch.

· Egg Mask – This home remedy is used all over the world for quick and natural hair growth. As we know, eggs contain high levels of proteins which help in the formation of new hair. It is also rich in sulphur, zinc, iron, selenium, phosphorous and iodine.
For the egg mask, separate one egg white in a bowl and add one teaspoon of olive oil ( you can also use grape seed oil or lavender oil )and honey. Make a paste of it and apply it all over your hair and scalp for about 20 minutes. Rinse it off with cool water and some shampoo.  

· Fenugreek– This herb is also an age-old remedy for hair growth problems. It contains proteins and nicotinic acid; protein-enriched diets have been known to encourage stimulation of hair growth. Add a tablespoon of this herb and water in a grinder till a smooth paste it formed. Add a little coconut oil (or milk) to it and apply on your hair and scalp for half an hour. Wash it off with a mild shampoo.

· Green tea, as you know is super rich in antioxidants and that helps in boosting hair growth and preventing hair loss. Apply warm green tea (from the used tea bags) over your scalp and leave it for an hour. Wash it off with cool water.

· Indian Gooseberry (amla) – This magical fruit is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s rich in Vitamin C and that accelerates hair growth. All you need to do is, mix 2 teaspoons of amla powder or juice with equal amounts of lime juice and let it dry. Rinse it off with some warm water. It will also prevent hair pigmentation.

 

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

   Homoeopathic mode of treatment has good scope and can aid regrowth of hair. Homoeopathic medicines stimulate the hair roots to promote regrowth. The medicines used in Homoeopathy to aid hair regrowth are all of natural origin and therefore, safe for use among persons of all age groups. Hair-loss is again just an indicator that there is something not well in our body. The hairs may fall due to a local infection or due to a systemic disorder or deficiency. The treatment also varies accordingly. The following homoeopathic medicines are often found indicated in cases of hair fall:

Medicine

Indication

Arsenic album

alopecia due to use of metallic arsenic, scalp itches intolerable. Circular patches of bare spots, hair fall in debilitated persons. Patients is mentally restless and very anxious about his/her health or hairfall. Sensitive to cold in general and cold drinks. Fastidious temperament.

Fluoricum Acidum

 

It is considered excellent for hair loss, especially alopecia areata, where the patient loses hair from spots on the scalp. It is also adept at dealing with the resulting hair fall after a period of sickness, hair breakage, hair fall caused by syphilis, and hair gets tangled a lot. It is recommended by a lot of homeopathic doctors.

Phosphorus

 

It is a medicine that is capable of curing a wide array of diseases. While it is popular for treating alopecia, it is also used to heal issues of the gastrointestinal tract, blood, nervous tissue, and bones.

Calcarea Carbonica

 

Calcarea Carb, has been found to be one of the best homeopathic medicines for hair regrowth. It is often prescribed to patients for whom hair loss is accompanied by intense itching and sweating of the scalp.

Vinca Minor

 

Vinca Minor is efficient in treating alopecia when it is accompanied by dandruff. It is also used to treat abnormal hair growth i.e. when the hair grows out like white wool.

Silicea

 

It is hard to believe that this deep acting remedy is inert before it undergoes potentization. It is used to treat a wide range of diseases. Homeopaths commonly prescribe Silicea for baldness accompanied with pain. It also treats skin conditions like eczema, which may sometimes cause dandruff.

Baryta Carbonica

 

This homeopathic cure is administered to young people suffering from premature baldness. It is generally used to treat timid people who are experiencing baldness along with throat complaints and issues such as tonsillitis.

Lycopodium Clavatum

 

This is one of the best homeopathic medicines for preventing a number of hair-related problems. Lycopodium is a wonderful remedy for hair loss, premature graying of the hair, and even baldness. It is prepared from club moss (fungus), which is potentized for its usage. This homeopathic medicine also tackles premature balding.

Psorinum

 

Psorinum is the best treatment for hair loss that is caused due to dandruff. Dandruff is a common result of skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Psorinum tackles the root of the cause, reducing hair fall and dandruff at the same time.

Mezereum

 

This is another medicine that efficiently deals with conditions of the skin such as rashes, lesions, and psoriasis. It tackles hair fall in people who have crusty scalps and infected scalps with pus. It is also ideal for encouraging hair growth.

Kali Sulphuricum

 

When the dandruff is yellow in color, Kali Sulphuricum is a good treatment to resort to. It promises great results and is often prescribed by homeopaths to patients who complain of dandruff and hair loss together.

Mercurius solubilis

falling of hair due to syphilis. Alopecia with eruptions on scalp; discharge from eruptions is fetid and accompanied by burning pains in scalp. Patient has profuse perspiration, excessive thirst and salivation.

Natrum Muriaticum

 

The interesting thing about Natrum Muriaticum is that it is made from common salt through potentization. It is used to treat a myriad of issues and is perfect for treating post childbirth hair fall. It is also prescribed for hair fall in women suffering from anemia.

Pulsatilla Pratensis

 

This is administered to women suffering from post-delivery hair loss. The people to whom this medicine is prescribed often report a lack of thirst and a desire for breathing in fresh air. It is also administered to women who have trouble in digesting fatty food.

Selenium

falling of hair from whole head leaving the scalp smooth and hairless (alopecia universalis). Falling of hair from eyebrows and face giving a strange appearance.

Vinca minor

 bald spots with itching of the skin, oozing moisture, matting hair together. Irresistible desire to scratch. Hair-loss, sharp and well defined, circumscribed patches which leave the scalp smooth and white or gray hair may grow on the bald spots like white wool.

Wiesbaden 

the hair grows rapidly and become darker by the use of this remedy. Arnica and Cantharis are also known to promote hair growth.

 

Conclusion

The aim of homoeopathy is not only to treat hair loss but to address its underlying cause and individual susceptibility. As far as therapeutic medication is concerned, several well-proved remedies are available for homoeopathic treatment of hair loss that can be selected on the basis of cause, location, modalities and extension of the hair loss. Hair-loss is again just an indicator that there is something not well in your body. The hairs may fall due to a local infection or due to a systemic disorder or deficiency. The treatment also varies accordingly. The main advantage of opting for Homoeopathic medicines for hair regrowth is the absence of any related toxic side effects.For individualized remedy selection and treatment, the patient should consult a qualified homoeopathic doctor in person. Homoeopathy has to treat the cause and the person a a whole, after due individualization of every patient.

References 

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine

Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine,

http://www.mayoclinic.org/

http://hpathy.com/

https://homeopathica.com/

http://food.ndtv.com

http://www.stylecraze.com

Dewey WA, Practical Homoeopathic Therapeutics,

W. Boericke, Pocket Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica and Repertory

Lilienthal S., Homoeopathic Therapeutics

 

BOERHAVIA DIFFUSA MOTHER TINCTURE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION

  RETROSPECTIVE CASE ANALYSIS ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BOERHAVIA DIFFUSA MOTHER TINCTURE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION ABSTRACT...