EFFICACY OF MENISPERMUM CANADENSE 30C IN MANAGING MIGRAINES: A CASE STUDY

 ABSTRACT

Migraines are a debilitating neurological disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of

severe headaches. This case study explores the efficacy of Menispermum Canadense 30C in

managing migraines. A 35-year-old female patient with a 5-year history of recurrent migraines

was treated with Menispermum Canadense 30C. The patient experienced significant reductions in

migraine frequency, duration, and severity over a 3-month period. The results suggest that

Menispermum Canadense 30C may be an effective treatment for migraines, particularly in

patients with hormonal and stress triggers. This case study contributes to the growing body of

evidence supporting the use of homeopathic remedies in managing migraines.

KEYWORDS Migraines, Menispermum Canadense, Homoeopathy, Case Study.

INTRODUCTION

Migraines affect millions of people worldwide, causing significant discomfort and

disrupting daily life. Conventional treatments often provide limited relief, and homeopathic

remedies like Menispermum Canadense 30C have gained Aattention for their potential

therapeutic benefits.Migraines are a common and debilitating neurological disorder characterized

by recurrent episodes of severe headaches, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity

to light and sound. Migraine is one of the most common and difficult clinical problems in

medicine.

In the majority of patients the cause is trivial and reversible and a careful clinical history

and examination often allows a specific diagnosis there by avoiding unnecessary investigation

Prevalance of migraine usually starts after puberty and continues until late middle life.

According to book of medicine Harrison 15% females & 6%males are suffering from

migraine. This case study explores the treatment of a migraine patient with Menispermum

Canadense 30C

ROLE OF HOMOEOPATHY IN MIGRAINE

Homeopathy views migraines as a symptom of an underlying imbalance or disturbance

in the body's energy or "vital force." Homeopathic remedies aim to restore balance and promote

self-healing by addressing the individual's unique symptoms and characteristics.Homeopathy

offers a unique and holistic approach to managing migraines, with several remedies showing

promise in alleviating symptoms.

MENISPERMUM CANADENSE

KEY SYMPTOMS OF MIGRAINE

 Severe, throbbing headaches

 Hormonal or stress triggers

 Emotional symptoms such as irritability or mood swings

 Digestive symptoms such as nausea or abdominal pain

 Auras or visual disturbances

MIGRAINE INDICATIONS

1. Hormonally triggered migraines: Menispermum Canadense is indicated for migraines

triggered by hormonal changes, such as those experienced during menstruation, menopause, or

pregnancy.

2. Stress-related migraines: This remedy is also indicated for migraines triggered by stress,

anxiety, or emotional disturbances.

3. Migraines with emotional symptoms: Menispermum Canadense may be prescribed for

migraines accompanied by emotional symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, or emotional

instability.

4. Migraines with digestive symptoms: This remedy may also be indicated for migraines

accompanied by digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

5. Migraines with auras: Menispermum Canadense may be prescribed for migraines preceded

by auras, such as flashing lights or zigzag patterns.

CASE PRESENTATION:

A 35-year-old female patient (Mrs.H) from Salem attended in OP ward of Sivaraj

Homoeopathic Medical College & Research Institute ,Salem on 02-04-2024.She presented with

a 5-year history of recurrent migraines, occurring 3-4 times a month. Each episode lasted 2-3

days, with severe throbbing headaches, nausea, vomiting, and photophobia.The patient had

tried various conventional treatments, including pain relievers and triptans, with limited

success.

HOMEOPATHIC ASSESSMENT

The patient's symptoms were assessed using the homeopathic repertory, revealing key symptoms:

• Severe, throbbing headaches

• Nausea and vomiting

• Photophobia

• Migraines triggered by hormonal changes and stress

TREATMENT:

Menispermum Canadense 30C was prescribed based on the patient's symptoms and

homeopathic repertory analysis. The patient was instructed to take 2 pellets of Menispermum

Canadense 30C sublingually, as needed, during migraine episodes.

 First Prescription

On 02/04/2024, Menispermum Canadense 30C BID after food was prescribed. He was advised

to take diet like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, etc.

 Second Prescription

On 16/04/2024, Headaches reduced, Nausea and vomiting sensation reduced,

Menispermum Canadense 30C BID after food was prescribed.

An Evidence – Based case of Haemorrhoids

 

Present Complaints:

A 26-years old unmarried man Mr. MM consulted for the treatment of protruding piles. He was disturbed with pain, bleeding while passing stool and also difficulty in sitting. He was advised for surgery by a surgeon due to his protrusion of piles but he was not interested to do surgery.

Past history:

Nothing relevant in this case

Family history:

Nothing relevant in this case

Personal history:

Taking tea: 4-5 times per day. No smoking and alcohol drinking habit

Diagnosis:

External Haemorrhoids

Treatment

He was advised to take Homoeopathic Medicine Muriatic acid 200 daily once before food for 1 week and Scrophularia Nodosa 30 daily twice after food for 1week then he was relieved form his complaints within 3days and advised to take proper diet and regular physical work.

                  Before Treatment                                  

 

After Treatment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

An Overview of the Indian Homoeopathic Medicine Industry

 

Abstract

The Indian Homoeopathic Medicine industry, introduced in the 19th century, has grown into a significant part of the country's Healthcare system, recognized as a national system of medicine, with a large number of practitioners and a substantial market size.  Homeopathy initially flourished in Bengal, with Calcutta becoming a center for Homoeopathic practice and education. Homoeopathy has become the third most popular method of medical treatment in India, after Allopathy and Ayurveda, with a large number of registered Homoeopathic doctors and a growing market. 

Introduction

The Homoeopathic Medicinal Manufacturing industries are regulated by Drug and control act. The qualities of raw materials and finished standards are mentioned in Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia of India which is published by Ministry of Health and family welfare. ⁽¹⁾ The Industry has shown remarkable growth in recent years, driven by increasing demand for alternative and natural therapies. It benefits from a strong historical foundation, widespread acceptance among the public, and an expanding network of Homoeopathic practitioners. With India being one of the largest producers and consumers of Homoeopathic medicines globally, the sector offers significant potential for both domestic growth and export opportunities.

However, challenges such as regulatory concerns, standardization issues, and competition from other alternative medicine systems remain. Despite these hurdles, the future of the industry looks promising, driven by ongoing research, technological advancements, and rising consumer awareness regarding the benefits of Homoeopathy.

Global Market

The system of Homoeopathy is very popular in India even though it is originated in Germany. The Indian Homoeopathic medicinal industry plays vital role in global market. The number of Homoeopathic practitioners is very high in India

The trend has shifted towards Homoeopathy due to the fear of side effect of allopathic medicine. There is growing popularity in alternative medicine because of various reasons. Firstly due to its perceived, either potentially beneficial or pernicious, effects on individual health or society. Secondly, a high tech medicine does not care or pay attention to the patient's belief. Thirdly medical cost has increased fifteen fold in past thirty years with only 40% being served with adequate medical care.

Currently, USA, Germany and United Kingdom are the countries to which India is exporting Homoeopathic product. India is also importing from these countries. Our major export destination of Homoeopathic products is Germany, which accounts for 90% to 95 % of our exports. For USA our exports have been increasing since 1992-93. Among developing countries where we export are Russia, Ukraine and Sri Lanka. In Russia 20% of medical care is based on the system of Homeopathy. ⁽¹⁾

Homeopathy in Public Health in India

In India, Homoeopathy is well represented in public health, being a close second among the AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) services. Homeopathy wellness centers comprise 31% of the total for AYUSH. Seven out of 10 diseases recognized as a national health burden are in the category of most commonly reported diseases at the homeopathy wellness centres.

Academic Homoeopathy institutes comprise 35.8% of AYUSH colleges, the total student intakes of which are 13,658 and 32,256 respectively. Homoeopathy practitioners are 37% of the AYUSH total. Homeopathy units comprise 1/19th of the number of Allopathy units, yet the annual patient footfall in the former is 1/5th of the latter. ⁽²⁾

 

Implementation of Indian Systems of Medicine and Homoeopathy

Overall implementation status of ISM&H Policy was found to be ‘Excellent’. Government has largely focused on issues of research, medicinal plants, drug standardization and quality control as these yield profits in global market.

Education and integration of AYUSH with mainstream health system were found to be on priority list of government for implementation but a still lot is to be done. Range of options for utilization of AYUSH manpower and referral system was found to be rudimentary. No protocol was found for goal oriented role and responsibility to the ISM workforce.

Use of AYUSH in Veterinary medicine emerged as one of most unexplored area despite of recognition in policy. Emphasis on ‘Home remedies’ and ‘Promotion of diet based on Ayurvedic and Naturopathy approach’ was inadequate. Scarcity of funds emerged as major factor to hinder the implementation of ISM&H Policy. Efforts to enhance medical tourism through AYUSH were limited to only specific states. Government should support ISM&H by a significant increase in budget. SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) approach is needed. Each system must focus in their strong points^{. (3)}

Herbal Medicine for Market Potential in India

India is sitting on a gold mine of well-recorded and Well-practiced knowledge of traditional herbal medicine. The basic requirements for gaining entry into developed countries include well-documented traditional use, Single-plant medicines, Medicinal plants free from pesticides, heavy metals etc.

Standardization based on chemical and activity profile and Safety and stability. Herbal drug development is possible only through the development of standardized herbal products. The health care systems are going to become more and more expensive therefore, we have to develop technologies to essentially introduce and integrate herbal medicine system in our health care.

There is an enormous scope for India also to emerge as a major player in the global herbal product based medicine. Let us hope that drug manufactured in accordance with principles of Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani will reach new horizons and make them the best in the world if the quality of the herbal drugs is maintained, efficacy would itself be maintained and then there is nothing to stop them from competing with the modern medicine with added advantages of fewer side effects and lower costs^{. (4)}

Current status of expiry of Homoeopathic medicines

 In India, all Homeopathic medicines except dilutions and back potencies have a maximum of five years' shelf-life, including those supplied to consumers. ⁽⁵⁾

Utilization of India's Homeopathic Resources:

India's extensive Homoeopathic infrastructure, including manpower, institutions, and drug manufac turing industry, presents a valuable resource that can be leveraged to promote homeopathy on a global scale. Other countries can learn from India's experiences in clinical practice, research, and regulatory frameworks to enhance the growth of homeopathy worldwide. ⁽⁶⁾

Conclusion

The many industries of manufacturing Homoeopathic Medicines are having vital role in India for Public Health. Indian homeopathic medicine industry holds great promise for the coming years. It requires continuous innovation, regulatory improvements, and strategic marketing to tap into both domestic and international markets effectively. With the increasing shift towards holistic and natural healing methods, Homoeopathy's role in India's healthcare landscape is likely to expand further.

 

MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH TO COMMON GASTROINTESTINAL SYMPTOM - NAUSEA AND VOMITING

 

Abstract

Nausea and vomiting are symptoms of many different health conditions, including early pregnancy, concussions and the stomach flu. Happening in both adults and children, there are many ways to relieve nausea. This article review about causes, risk factors, different type, clinical presentation general management including some home remedies management and homoeopathic way of treatment of Nausea and vomiting. Homoeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homoeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition.

Introduction

Vomiting is an uncontrollable reflex that expels the contents of the stomach through the mouth. It’s also called “being sick” or “throwing up.” Nausea is a term that describes the feeling that you might vomit but aren’t actually vomiting.

Both nausea and vomiting are very common symptoms and can be caused by a wide range of factors. They occur in both children and adults, although they’re probably most common in pregnant women and people undergoing cancer treatments.

Causes of Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting may occur together or separately. They can be caused by a number of physical and psychological conditions.

Nausea

The most common causes of nausea are intense pain — usually from an injury or illness — and the first trimester of pregnancy. There are also a number of other relatively common causes, including: motion sickness, emotional stress, indigestion, food poisoning, viruses, exposure to chemical toxins. If have gallstones, also likely to feel nauseated. Certain smells bring on the feeling of nausea. This is a very common symptom during the first trimester of pregnancy, although it can also occur in people who aren’t pregnant. Pregnancy-induced nausea usually goes away by the second or third trimester.

Vomiting in children

The most common causes of vomiting in children are viral infections and food poisoning. However, vomiting can also be caused by: severe motion sickness, coughing, high fevers

Overeating, In very young infants, blocked intestines can also cause persistent vomiting. The intestines may become blocked by abnormal muscular thickening, hernia, gallstones, or tumors. This is uncommon but should be investigated if unexplained vomiting occurs in an infant.

Vomiting in adults

Most adults rarely vomit. When it does occur, a bacterial or viral infection or a type of food poisoning usually causes vomiting. In some cases, vomiting can also be the result of other illnesses, especially if they lead to a headache or high fever.

Chronic stomach conditions

Chronic, or long-term, stomach conditions can often cause nausea and vomiting. These conditions can come along with other symptoms, such as diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. These chronic conditions include food intolerances, such as celiac disease and dairy protein and lactose intolerance.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common stomach condition that causes bloating, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, fatigue, and cramping. It occurs when parts of the gut become overactive. Doctors usually diagnose IBS by identifying symptoms and ruling out other stomach and bowel conditions.

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that commonly affects the intestines, though it can occur anywhere in the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks its own healthy gut tissue, causing inflammation, nausea, vomiting, and pain.

Doctors usually diagnose Crohn’s disease using a colonoscopy, a procedure that uses a small camera to explore the colon. Sometimes they also need a stool sample to help diagnose the condition.

Lifestyle choices

Certain lifestyle choices can increase your chance of experiencing nausea and vomiting.

Consuming a large amount of alcohol can cause damage to the lining of the gut. Alcohol can also react with stomach acid. Both of these will cause nausea and vomiting. In some cases, excessive alcohol consumption can also cause bleeding in the digestive tract.

Eating disorders

An eating disorder is when a person adjusts their eating habits and behaviors based on an unhealthy body image. It can cause nausea and vomiting.

Bulimia is an eating disorder in which a person induces vomiting deliberately to purge the stomach of any consumed food. People with anorexia may also feel nausea due to starvation and excess stomach acid.

Serious conditions

Though rare, vomiting can sometimes occur as a symptom of a more serious condition, including: meningitis, appendicitis, concussion, a brain tumor, migraines

General Management

Treatments for nausea and vomiting depend on the cause. You may get treatment for the underlying problem. There are some medicines that can treatment nausea and vomiting. For severe cases of vomiting, you may need extra fluids through an IV (intravenous).

There are things that you can do to feel better:

·        Get enough fluids, to avoid dehydration. If you are having trouble keeping liquids down, drink small amounts of clear liquids often.

·        Eat bland foods; stay away from spicy, fatty, or salty foods

·        Eat smaller meals more often

·        Avoid strong smells, since they can sometimes trigger nausea and vomiting

·        If you are pregnant and have morning sickness, eat crackers before you get out of bed in the morning

Home remedies

Anti-nausea medications can help with nausea symptoms. However, they often have side effects, such as drowsiness. Some people may prefer to explore natural remedies for nausea.

·        Ginger is a popular natural remedy for nausea.It is not clear how ginger specifically treats nausea. However, experts believe ginger compounds may work similarly to anti-nausea medications. Several studies agree that ginger may help reduce nausea in various situations.For instance, consuming ginger may effectively decrease nauseaTrusted Source during pregnancy or after chemotherapyTrusted Source treatment.

·        Peppermint aromatherapy may also help reduce nausea.One study of 100 people found that peppermint essential oil significantly improvedTrusted Source nausea when used alone or alongside medications. In another study, peppermint oil reduced the frequency of nausea, vomiting, and retching in people undergoing chemotherapy. In a third study Trusted Source, using an inhaler containing peppermint oil at the onset of nausea reduced symptoms — within 2 minutes of treatment — in 79% of cases.

·        Citrusy smells, such as those from freshly sliced lemon, may help reduce pregnancy-related nausea.In one older study from 2014, 100 pregnant people inhaled either lemon essential oil or almond oil as soon as they felt nausea. At the end of the 4-day study, those in the lemon group rated their nausea 9% lowerTrusted Source than those given the almond oil placebo.

·        Fennel powder, which may reduce Trusted Source menstrual symptoms, including nausea, and help people experience shorter periods.

·        Cinnamon, which may decrease Trusted Source the severity of nausea that some people experience during menstruation

·        Cumin extract, which may help improve symptomsTrusted Source such as abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome

·        Relaxing your muscles, whether through massage or PMR techniques, may help relieve nausea.

·        Vitamin B6 is an alternative treatment for pregnant people who prefer to avoid anti-nausea medications.

·         Fresh air and ventilation: Stay in a well-ventilated area or step outside for fresh air, as stuffy or odorous environments can trigger or worsen vomiting.

·        Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that can induce vomiting, such as certain foods, strong smells or excessive movement.

·        Gradual reintroduction of food: Once vomiting has subsided, start with small, bland and easily digestible foods, such as crackers, rice or bananas, before gradually reintroducing a normal diet.

 

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

Homoeopathy is a remarkable resource for those dealing with digestive disorders.  The unique physical, emotional and mental expression of illness is characteristic and is used to channel the course of Homoeopathic treatment. The remedies work by stimulating body’s natural ability to heal itself, acting as a catalyst for healing. Homoeopathy can be of assistance in retrieving normal motility and treating any psychological issues related to gastric disorders. The following homoeopathic medicines are often found indicated in cases of nausea and vomiting

 

Indicated Remedies	Indications
Nux vomica	One of the primary remedies for vomiting, especially when associated with overeating, indigestion or excessive alcohol consumption. The person may experience nausea, a sour or bitter taste in the mouth and an irritable disposition.
Ipecacuanha	Indicated for persistent nausea and vomiting, even when the stomach is empty. The person may feel weak, exhausted and may have a constant inclination to vomit.
Arsenicum album	This is suitable for vomiting accompanied by anxiety, restlessness and a feeling of extreme weakness. The person may have a burning sensation in the stomach and may experience relief from sipping warm drinks
Phosphorus	Recommended for vomiting with a sour or bitter taste in the mouth and a sensation of burning in the stomach. The person may feel weak and may have a strong desire for cold drinks
Veratrum album	A remedy indicated for violent vomiting and diarrhoea, with profuse sweating, coldness and weakness. The person may have a pale face and a craving for icy-cold drinks
Pulsatilla	This remedy can be helpful if nausea is worse in the afternoon and evening (often in the morning, as well). The woman is not very thirsty, although she may feel better from drinking something cool. She can crave many different foods, but feels sick from many things (including foods she craves). Creamy foods or desserts may be appealing, but can cause discomfort and burping or bring on vomiting. A woman who needs this remedy usually is affectionate, insecure, and weepy—wanting a lot of attention and comforting.
Bryonia alba	Recommended when vomiting occurs after eating or drinking, and the person experiences intense nausea and a desire to remain still. The person may feel worse with any motion
Carbo Vegetalis:	If the vomiting is associated with indigestion, heartburn, flatulence, and a bloated feeling, carbo vegetalis can be the ideal remedy. Food regurgitation or GERD with a sour taste in the mouth is a good indicator for using this remedy. There is gas in the stomach which causes distention and burping, especially in children, and this remedy is very useful in such cases.
Ignatia:	Vomiting is brought on by emotional stressors, associated with depression and trying to curb this feeling. The person may be crying and have mood swings and sleeplessness. This is also used in children who may complain of a lump in the throat. In children especially, everything that is said will be taken very personally.
Antimonium crudum	The tongue is coated with a white layer and vomiting occurs soon after eating or drinking. There could be history of eating indigestible foods or overloaded stomach.
Kreosote:	When undigested food stays in the stomach for prolonged periods or used in vomiting associated with cancerous growths and kidney diseases.
Aethusa:	If a child is vomiting curd-like material followed by exhaustion, this is a good solution. The hungry child eats and goes through the bout of nausea, and the cycle repeats.
Asarum	This remedy is indicated when a woman feels very ill, with constant nausea and retching. She is extremely sensitive to everything—especially noise, which can aggravate the nauseous feelings. She feels best when lying down and resting. Cool drinks or food may help, but it is hard for her to even think of eating.
Lacticum acidum	This remedy is indicated for “classic morning sickness”: nausea worse immediately on waking in the morning and on opening the eyes. The woman may salivate a lot and have burning stomach pain. She usually has a decent appetite and feels better after eating.
Sepia	Gnawing, intermittent nausea with an empty feeling in the stomach suggests a need for this remedy. It is especially indicated for a woman who is feeling irritable, sad, worn out, and indifferent to her family. She feels worst in the morning before she eats, but is not improved by eating and may vomit afterward. Nausea can be worse when she is lying on her side. Odors of any kind may aggravate the symptoms. Food often tastes too salty. She may lose her taste for many foods, but may still crave vinegar and sour things.
Tabacum	This remedy can be helpful to a woman who feels a ghastly nausea with a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach. She looks extremely pale, feels very cold and faint, and needs to lie very still and keep her eyes closed. If she moves at all, she may vomit violently—or break out in cold sweat and feel terrible.

Conclusion

Homeopathic remedies can help rebuild mind, body and spirit as well as personal relationships for a balanced lifestyle. Homeopathy will reinforce and tone the body’s systems. Homeopathic remedies can help deal with anxiety, depression, and stress along with digestive problems. It will attend to nutritional problems and help the patient develop a healthier body image.Homeopathic constitutional treatment based on the individual case is the most suitable and would aim to heal the underlying physical or emotional crisis causing digestive disorders.

 

References:

 

1.      Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine

2.      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/

3.      Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine,

4.      https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics

5.      https://www.lybrate.com/topic

6.      https://www.homeopathyschool.com/the-clinic/self-help-conditions/vomiting/

7.      E.A.Farrington , Clinical Materia Medica

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

9.      M.L.Tyler, Homeopathic Drug Picture.

10. https://medlineplus.gov/

11. H.C.Allen, Allen’s Keynotes.

12. Lilienthal S., Homoeopathic Therapeutics

13. Dewey W. A., Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics

14. /https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/

15. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/

16. Dr. K.N.Mathur, Principles of Prescribing

 

About the author

Prof. Dr. S. SABARIRAJAN., M.D. (Hom) (Pract. of Med), PGDHHM

HOD, Dept. of Practice of Medicine, Sivaraj Homoeopathic Medical College and Research institute (Affiliated to The Tamilnadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai), Thumbathulipatty, Salem - 636307, Tamilnadu

Prof. Dr. S. R. AMEERKHAN BABU., M.D. (Hom) (Pract. of Med), MBA

HOD, Dept. of Practice of Medicine, Excel Homoeopathy Medical College & Hospital (Affiliated to The Tamilnadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai), NH544, Komarapalayam, Namakkal Dt. - 637303, Tamilnadu