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The Faculty of Homeopathy Newsletter October 2012 Big changes, big issues – big opportunities

Revalidation for doctors is due to be homeopathy outside the medical changes impact on homeopathy in implemented in April 2013, starting first profession and hence the Faculty.) England? Disappointingly, many PCT with NHS doctors and surgeries which fit ■ It will enhance the reputation of the managers will move to CCG management more easily the revalidation model. Initial Faculty and help to ensure a healthy and continue to view homeopathy as a pilots have flagged issues that the GMC future for medical homeopathy. service, along with other services, that hopes to easily iron out with the first can be cut to make savings. However, round of revalidations. Many Faculty doctors in independent there are opportunities. Entrepreneurial The mechanism for revalidation is practice have received a letter request ing doctors and other specialists could work based on the establishment of desig nated them to notify the GMC of their together to use this change to offer bodies with a Responsible Officer (RO). designated body. We have encouraged services to assist CCGs in managing Designated bodies are usually the place those doctors to note that the Faculty patient loads cost-effectively. of a doctors’ main employment, such of Homeopathy would be the best There are chronic pain patients, as a hospital trust or PCT, with the designated body for revalidation and that geriatric patients and other clinical ROs being clinical directors or heads. the Faculty is working with the DH to path ways that would lend themselves The majority of Faculty doctors will be become a designated body. to a service which not only offered covered by this arrangement. Who will need Faculty revalidation? homeo pathy but also used the skills At present the Faculty of Homeop athy Currently there are around 20-30 doctors of other professionals such as is not a designated body. However, serious who will need Faculty revalidation, and acupuncturists, physiotherapists, discussions are taking place with the it is anticipated this number will increase GPs etc. It is through engaging now Department of Health (DH) revalidation as doctors retire from NHS practice with GP leaders who will be involved team so that the Faculty is recognised as but continue to practise homeopathy. with the CCGs that we can put forward a designated body. Achieving this status Any members needing revalidation from proposals to have services purchased. would be significantly beneficial, as we the Faculty now or in a few years’ time Doctors and other healthcare would have a homeopathic doctor as an should contact the Faculty or email providers should get involved with the RO who would evaluate practice. This Sara Eames or Cristal Sumner. CCGs and try to sit on committees and would prevent Faculty members being At present revalidation is focusing on panels that will be part of the decision- subjected to final RO approval by doctors, but it will be interesting to see if making process. By sitting on these someone that knows nothing about nurses, midwives and dentists practising boards and giving some time locally, homeopathy. Additionally: in the NHS will, in the future, also be members can help save existing services ■ It will ensure a clear pathway for our asked to consider revalidation. and commission new ones that build in members in private practice to achieve homeopathy, and deliver a patient centred revalidation, and these include a Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) approach to care. number of our senior members. In England responsibility for healthcare ■ It will protect our members against the purchasing at local level is moving from HealthWatch possibility of an RO unsympathetic Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) to Clinical Local voices make all the difference in towards homeopathy conducting their Commissioning Groups (CCGs). These getting the healthcare services that are revalidation in the future. CCGs are supposed to be up and running needed. Hitherto this role has been ■ It will help us to maintain our member- by April 2013. Until CCGs have been performed by LINks (Local Involvement ship over the coming years. (There is a established as statutory bodies (anti - Networks), but these are to be replaced clear temptation otherwise for members cipated to be done by the deadline of by HealthWatch England. Made up of to resign from the GMC and practice April 2013), PCTs remain responsible for members of the public, local HealthWatch commissioning and associated finances. groups will review CCG decisions and Between 1st October 2012 and 31st make them accountable for service March 2013, some responsibility for provision. HealthWatch groups will also commissioning will be delegated to those help drive the strategies to ensure the CCGs that have already set up their best healthcare for the locality. structures from the PCT. These will then It is important to get patients involved “shadow” their PCT during the in these new watchdog bodies. Make transitional phase (although in some areas them aware they could play an important the CCGs haven’t been set up to take role influencing local healthcare decisions, IN THIS ISSUE: over from the PCTs) by working as sub- and help to keep homeopathy and other News 1 • Research update 6 committees on their existing regional PCT health services available. The Faculty can Viewpoint 7 • Case studies 8 & 14 Boards. Ideally, in time, each CCG will assist members by providing information Feature 12 • Book review 17 incrementally take on more commission - that will be helpful in getting their patients ing responsibilities. involved locally. If you are interested, What’s on 19 The big question is how will these please contact the Faculty. •• editorial

I am writing this editorial aboard flight LH741 somewhere high over Siberia, as I return home from the 67th annual congress of the LMHI (Liga Medicorum Homoeopathica Internationalis), which took place in the historical Japanese city of Nara.

The event was brilliantly organised by the “Harmony through integration” and On behalf of all the UK participants Japanese Physicians Society for Homeo- I discussed the evolving role of the I would like to extend my gratitude for pathy (JPSH), who provided a fascinating homeopathic patient in healthcare. the wonderful hospitality and seamless series of lectures with the overall theme Apart from this diversion, the rest of efficiency with which the 67th annual of “Harmony”. Unfortunately the the congress proceeded very smoothly, congress of the LMHI was run by the programme was disrupted by the rather if a little sticky. A temperature in the mid JPSH. The 68th congress, in Quito, less than harmonious actions of the large 30s accompanied by very high humidity Ecuador will have a hard act to follow Indian contingent who staged a protest came as quite a shock upon my arrival in June 2013. by walking out of at least two sessions from a chilly and wet Glasgow. In other news, a welcome cabinet and refusing to contribute speakers to During the congress I found the reshuffle moved Jeremy Hunt from his others. The problem apparently session on allergies, chaired by Dr Peter position as Culture Secretary to that of stemmed from the fact that congress Fisher, particularly interesting. It included Health Secretary. His previously stated protocol only allowed questions for a presentation by Michel van Wassen- support for homeopathy was invited symposium speakers such as hoven of Belgium who reviewed immediately seized upon by the Peter Gregory and Faculty Pharmacy research on the topic; and Koji Hozawa Guardian , who ran a poll inviting readers Dean, Lee Kayne. This meant there was from Japan who presented the results to say whether they agreed with no opportunity for delegates to ask of a randomised, double-blind, placebo Hunt’s view that “homeopathy is questions following presentations by controlled clinical trial for Japanese cedar making a positive contribution to the invited speakers, including Bob Leckridge pollinosis (JCP) using an isopathic NHS”. Predictably for this newspaper, and myself. Bob’s address was entitled remedy. JCP is one of the most common 71% of an undisclosed number of allergic diseases in Japan with the total respondents apparently indicated that medicinal national cost of treating the they disagreed with Mr Hunt. It will be condition approaching 60 billion yen interesting to see whether Mr Hunt has annually. The trial was so successful that the courage of his convictions and is smle it is to be presented to the Japanese prepared to engage with the Faculty. government to demonstrate the potential From David Lilley in South Africa for homeopathy in reducing the public comes sad news that the South African The Faculty of Homeopathy health costs associated with the Faculty may have to close because of Newsletter treatment of this widespread problem. unmanageable costs. However, all may Dr Hozaka plans to continue this work not be lost just yet as the Health Science with other major Japanese allergens Department of the University of Editor: Steven Kayne in the future. Johannesburg has shown great interest Assistant Editor: John Burry There are no specific regulations in incorporating David’s course into their governing homeopathy in Japan and institution. A meeting is scheduled soon Faculty of Homeopathy remedies are not yet considered to be to assess the viability and should it Hahnemann House medicines. The JPSH are working hard come to fruition it will be a wonderful 29 Park Street West to promote the wider acceptance of vindication of the tireless work that Luton LU1 3BE homeopathy and of course we wish David has performed over the years for them every success. The congress was the South African Faculty, ably assisted Tel: 01582 408680 attended by 318 participants from 31 by colleagues both in South Africa and Fax: 01582 723032 countries with excellent support from from the UK (Bob Leckridge again!). Email: [email protected] the Japanese medical homeopathic Finally, I’m delighted to report that Web: www.facultyofhomeopathy.org community. several pro-homeopathy campaigns have The congress social programme resulted in notable victories: the MHRA showcased Japanese arts of Noh announcing its review of the Medicines All the material in this publication is theatre and traditional Japanese Act will not affect the supply of copyright and may not be reproduced musical instruments. This was most homeopathic medicines, a BHA media without permission. The publishers do interesting for both the Japanese campaign that reached millions and not necessarily identify with or hold and foreign delegates, as such BANES PCT abandoning its plans to themselves responsible for contributors’, performances are quite rare, even in decommission homeopathy. Evidence, correspondents’ or advertisers’ opinions. Japan. It was a privilege to have the if it were needed, that together as a opportunity to experience them. community we are a formidable force The fabulous feast at the Gala dinner capable of getting our message heard Design: Wildcat Design included both Western and Japanese and acted upon. And that can only bode [email protected] delicacies. In the latter category, I placed well for any challenges we may have to Printing: Hertfordshire Display plc, myself at the disposal of my Japanese face in the future. Ware, Herts. Tel: 01920 461191 hosts and sampled whatever they recommended, even if I was not Steven Kayne immediately able to identify some items. [email protected]

2 •• news

Exam success brightens South African gloom

In July, ten candidates in travelled to the country to act administrative expenses of a valuable asset in homeo- South Africa successfully as the South African Faculty registering as a Private pathic training. passed the Diploma exam, of Homeopathy’s external Higher Education Institution, But all is not lost, as which is recognised by the examiner, said: “I don’t think a legal obligation for all higher discussions have taken Faculty as equivalent to the I have ever experienced such education establishments in place over the possibility MFHom. The Faculty offers a high performing group as a South Africa since 2002. of preserving the course its congratulations to Dr whole … fantastic and Universities can meet these by transferring it to the Natalya Dinat, Dr Margaretha inspiring!” expenses comfortably, but University of Johannesburg, Jonker, Dr Solomon Masilo, The candidates all studied for a small institution with a where it would be taught Dr Belinda McIntosh, Dr Ella at the South African Faculty limited intake of students under the aegis of the Health Morrison, Dr John Myburgh, of Homeopathy, an every three years, the Sciences Department. Dr Jean Railton, Dr Christine accredited training centre in escalating bureaucratic costs “At the moment matters Steyn, Dr Danise Theron and Pretoria run by Dr David Lilley have become unaffordable. are pending,” said Dr David Dr Ruth Thompson. and his wife Paddy. Despite Other homeopathic Lilley. “If the university’s This was a particularly this success Faculty teaching centres such as the deliberations prove accomplished group of accredited training faces an University of Johannesburg favourable, we would like to candidates with doctors uncertain future in South and the Durban University of commence our next three Dinat, Morrison, Myburgh Africa following the Technology, which run 5 year year modular course some and Railton also achieving a announcement that the pre-graduate courses for time in 2013. At present it is distinction in the final Pretoria centre is set to close professional homeopaths, very much a ‘bated breath’ assessment. at the end of the year. This is have expressed dismay that and ‘keeping fingers crossed’ Dr Bob Leckridge, who due to the ever-increasing South Africa should lose such situation.”

BANES PCT climbs down New health secretary on decommissioning supports homeopathy P h

Campaigners opposed to The announcement The appointment of Jeremy o t o :

the Bath and North East follows a long campaign by Hunt as the new Secretary D e

Somer set (BANES) PCT local supporters and the BHA of State for Health in the p a r t proposal to stop funding NHS that questioned whether the Septem ber cabinet reshuffle m e n t

homeo pathic services are PCT had carried out its legal created quite a stir, and all o f

celebrating following the obligations in relation to because of his support for H e a l t

PCT’s announce ment that it conducting a proper public homeopathy. h has abandoned its plans to consultation before reaching Almost as soon as it was decommission the service. its decision to decommission announced that Mr Hunt was In a short statement the service in 2011. to replace Andrew Lansley, issued to the British Despite having articles began appearing in Homeopathic Association maintained that a proper the press and online focussing (BHA), the PCT said the public consultation had been on a parliamentary Early Day Jeremy Hunt, MP decision was taken because carried out, the PCT’s latest Motion (EDM) signed by Mr enormously valued by it lacked the manage ment decision clearly suggests that Hunt in 2007. The EDM that thousands of people and in resources to take any this was not the case. caused the media to get into an NHS that the government further action on a public The PCT’s climb down such a flap, and raise the repeatedly tells us is ‘patient- consultation exercise with means patients will still be blood pressure of the sceptic led’ it ought to be available regard to decommis sion ing able to seek GP referrals to community, praised the where a doctor and patient homeopathy services; the Bristol Homeopathic positive contribution made believe that a homeopathic therefore the PCT will not Hospital and attend the to the health of the nation by treatment may be of benefit actively pursue decommis - outreach clinics in the area the NHS homeopathic to the patient.” sioning the service at this time. run by the hospital. hos pitals and called on the In the coming months the government of the day to new minster for health will actively support the future of undoubtedly have much All news is good news… these hospitals. more pressing issues than Do you have a news story about homeopathy which you At the time, Mr Hunt homeopathy to attend to. think could be of interest to other Faculty members? If so, received a letter from a Nevertheless, let us hope we’d like to hear from you. Share your news in these constituent criticising his that in the event of any future columns by getting in contact with John Burry at: pro-homeopathy stance. In attack on NHS homeopathy reply the MP for South West provision, Mr Hunt will stay [email protected] • 01582 408682 Surrey wrote: true to his convictions and “Homeopathic care is offer his ministerial support.

3 •• news

Raising funds for the Faculty To ensure the Faculty can The pack consists of Members’ Committee carry out the many activities fund raising ideas, sponsor - it has planned all members ship forms, advice on Convener are being encouraged to help keeping your event safe and with raising funds. The legal, and a list of websites After seven years in the post, Dr Tim Robinson has money raised will be used to where further information fund a whole range of can be found. Although they decided to stand down as Members’ Committee projects including video will be using the BHA’s pack, Convener and is to be replaced by Dr Trish Ridsdale. shoots for the website, mem bers can stipulate that The Faculty would like to thank Tim for the dedication promotional events, printed the money they raise goes and enthusiasm he displayed in performing this communications material, towards funding Faculty important role that serves to bring the ideas, opinions educational seminars, projects. research projects, confer- The Faculty will provide and concerns of Faculty members to the attention of the ence exhibition space and advice and support to Faculty council. much, much more! anyone who takes up the During his time as Members’ Committee Convener, Fundraising events can fundraising challenge. Tim’s positive and proactive approach resulted in the involve sponsored runs, So don’t delay, let us know creation of several smaller, sub-groups to encourage walks and bike rides or less your fundraising ideas. wider participation in Faculty affairs. Despite handing energetic endeavours such Remember no amount is as a sponsored silence. too small (or too large!). over the convener’s responsibilities to Trish, Tim’s To help members with their involvement with the Members’ Committee will not efforts a fundraising pack To apply for a fundraising cease completely, as he will continue to represent the has been produced by the pack contact Tracey south-west members’ group at committee meetings. Faculty’s sister organisation, Simmons on 01582 408681 the British Homeopathic or email tsimmons@faculty Association (BHA). ofhomeopathy.org

New website challenges findings of NHS Lothian critical S&T committee report NHS Lothian is conducting a public consultation on A new website has been continue to use its • No evidence was heard whether it should continue launched that questions the conclusions to attack from Primary Care Trusts funding homeopathy conclusions of the House of homeopathy both here in that commission homeo- services. To gauge public Commons Science and the UK and abroad. pathy or from doctors who opinion on this issue the Technology (S&T) committee’s The new website is use it in a primary care health board is asking the “evidence check” report funded by the 4homeopathy setting public to fill in a survey on homeopathy. For group, a collaboration which can be downloaded journalists and public alike between leading • The committee failed to from the “Our Organisation” page on the NHS Lothian www.homeopathyevidence homeopathic organisations seek evidence from website: www.nhslothian. check.org offers an opportunity that came about to challenge medical practitioners from scot.nhs.uk to fully understand the the concerted attacks on countries such as France Throughout October a nature of this controversial homeopathy. While the site and Germany, where number of public meetings report and to reach a more doesn’t shy away from the homeopathy is used more have been taking place with balanced conclusion. report’s findings, even widely than in the UK the last scheduled for Published in 2010, the providing a link so that 29 October in Edinburgh. S&T committee’s report was visitors can read it in full, it • 74 randomised controlled Details can be obtained heavily critical of homeo - also offers the criticism that trials comparing homeo - from the NHS Lothian web - pathy and recommended the the report engendered from pathy with placebo, of site or by calling them direct. You can also make your government end NHS fund - within parliament which, which 63 showed homeo - views known by writing to: ing of all homeopathic treat - viewed objectively, seriously pathic treatments were ments and for the MHRA damages the report’s effective, were ignored Homeopathy Review, (Medicines and Healthcare credibility. Many of these NHS Lothian, Regulatory Authority) to concerns were expressed at Waverley Gate, 2–4 Waterloo Place, stop licensing homeo- the time in a parliamentary As well as a link to the Early Edinburgh, EH1 3EG. pathic products. These Early Day Motion signed by Day Motion, further links are recommendations were 70 MPs. These included: provided to the responses to Alternatively call rejected by the government. • The Committee took oral the report from Earl Baldwin 0131 465 5544 or email However, despite only evidence only from a of Bewdley, respected homeopathy@nhslothian @scot.nhs.uk three members of the S&T limited number of charities, patient groups and committee actually voting witnesses, including known registering bodies for The public consultation for the report, opponents critics of homeopathy homeopathic practitioners. ends on 10 November 2012.

4 •• news

BUPA stops funding homeopathy BUPA, the UK’s largest private ment ary therapies, including healthcare insurer, has homeopathy. However, in removed homeopathy from light of the doctors’ vote at the complementary benefits the BMA conference we will on all British policies renewed be reviewing our position on on or after 1st January 2012 homeopathy.” and on all new policies Concerned patients and starting from that date. members of the Faculty have Follow us on Twitter Although it has proved tried to contact the company difficult to get a statement over this development but Twitter is a simple and practical way of staying in touch from the company, it is BUPA seem reluctant to with up-to-the-minute developments relating to reported that the decision explain its position. Faculty homeopathy, sharing views and keeping in touch with to withdraw cover for President, Sara Eames, has colleagues, students and supporters. Keep up to date homeopathy was based repeatedly sought a meeting on the publication of the with BUPA to discuss this with the latest news by logging on to http://twitter. 2010 House of Commons issue but to date has been com/fohhomeopathy Science and Technology unsuccessful. Further efforts Committee’s evidence check to secure a meeting with the which concluded there was company are being made. no clinical evidence of the Despite its decision effectiveness of homeopathy; BUPA still carries a full page Wedding bells and the BMA’s (British devoted to homeopathy on Medical Association) vote its website where it explains in the same year calling what homeo pathy is; where for a ban on NHS patients can find a homeopath homeopathy. (directing them towards At the time of the BMA the British Homeo pathic vote Dr Dr Katrina Herren, Assoc iation and Society Medical Director for BUPA of Homeo paths); and lists Health and Wellbeing, said: common conditions that “Currently at BUPA some of are some times treated our policies cover comple- with homeo pathy.

Homeopathy is now available online

research papers, visitors to the online journal will find lists of the most cited articles and the most read articles, along with those that have appeared in the Tracey and Ash tie the knot press. The new website also Despite all the rain we had Tracey and Ash decided allows Faculty members this summer, on the 13th to split their honeymoon and subscribers access to July the sun shone down on between a number of every article that has the Faculty’s membership locations and have already appeared in the journal officer Tracey Rignall when spent a week in Maderia, since 1945. The online she married her fiancé visited the Isle of Wight and version of the journal is Ashley (Ash) Simmons at are off to the Lake District in available to all Faculty Horwood House in Little October. The journal Homeopathy members through the Horwood, Bucking ham shire. On behalf of the Faculty is now available online. “Members’ Area” of The couple have known we would like to offer Tracey As well as the latest the Faculty website. each other for two years and Ash our congratulations after meeting on an internet and best wishes as they dating site. begin married life together.

5 •• news

•• research update

menopause for <24 months and >5 hot BHA research flushes per day with a significant negative effect on the women’s professional Our two papers that categorise the world literatures of randomised controlled and/or personal life. Treatment was either trials (RCTs) of homeopathy in human and in veterinary medicine have been BRN-01 tablets, a registered homeopathic accepted for publication. The next phase of each of the two systematic review medicine containing Actaea racemosa programmes is to complete and then publish the assessments of quality of the (4CH), Arnica montana (4CH), Glonoinum eligible RCTs. The veterinary review work is also scheduled for presentation at (4CH), Lachesis mutus (5CH), and Congress in October. Sanguinaria canadensis (4CH), or identical Editorial decisions on two other important papers are awaited: placebo tablets. Oral treatment (2 to 4 (1) periodontal outcomes study [with Sue Farrer and Liz Baitson]; tablets per day) was started on day 3 after (2) Cochrane review of Oscillococcinum for influenza [with Peter Fisher and study enrolment and was continued for Joyce Frye]. 12 weeks. The main outcome measure was the hot flush score (HFS) compared Robert Mathie, Research Development Adviser before, during, and after treatment. Secondary outcome criteria were the quality of life (QoL) [measured using the Hot Flush Related Daily Interference From the journals Scale (HFRDIS)], severity of symptoms (measured using the Menopause Rating Two recent studies have focused on feasibility of the innovative study design Scale), evolution of the mean dosage, and homeopathic treatment of menopausal in practice. Further research is required compliance. All adverse events (AEs) were symptoms. The first reflects normal to test the concept of undertaking recorded. 101 women were included individualised homeopathy, while the multiple trials within a cohort of in the final analysis: BRN-01, n = 50; second investigates a single complex patients and to assess the acceptability placebo, n = 51. The global HFS over the homeopathic medicine: of the “patient centred” approach to 12 weeks, assessed as the area under information and consent. the curve (AUC) adjusted for baseline Novel pragmatic trial design values, was significantly lower in the shown to be feasible Relton C, O’Cathain A, Nicholl J. A pilot BRN-01 group than in the placebo group In order to address the limitations of ‘cohort multiple randomised controlled trial’ (mean ± SD, 88.2 ± 6.5 versus 107.2 ± 6.4; the standard pragmatic randomised of treatment by a homeopath for women p = 0.04). BRN-01 was well tolerated; the controlled trial (RCT) design, the authors with menopausal hot flushes. Contemporary frequency of AEs was similar in the two Clinical Trials , 2012 [Article in Press]. developed an innovative “cohort treatment groups, and no serious AEs multiple RCT” approach. The novel were attributable to BRN-01. The authors New homeopathic treatment design was first piloted by addressing conclude that BRN-01 seemed option for menopausal syndrome a clinical question “What is the clinical to have a significant effect on the HFS, and cost effectiveness of treatment by The objective of this study was to compared with placebo. BRN-01 may a homeopath for women with evaluate the efficacy of the non- therefore be considered a new menopausal hot flushes?” A cohort of hormonal treatment BRN-01 in reducing therapeutic option with a safe profile for subjects with the condition of interest hot flushes in menopausal women. Its hot flushes in menopausal women who (hot flushes) was recruited through an design was multi-centre, randomised, do not want, or are not able, to take observational study of women’s midlife double-blind, placebo-controlled, and hormone replacement therapy or other health and consented to provide was carried out between June 2010 recognised treatments for this indication. observational data and have their data and July 2011. 108 menopausal used comparatively. The “Hot Flush” women, >50 years of age, were Colau JC, Vincent S, Marijnen P, Allaert FA. Cohort were then screened in order enrolled in the study, which was Efficacy of a non-hormonal treatment, BRN-01, on menopausal hot flashes: A multicenter, to identify patients eligible for a trial of conducted in 35 centres in France randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled the offer of treatment by a homeopath (gynaecologists in private practice). trial. Drugs R D , August 2012 [Epub ahead of (Eligible Trial Group). A proportion of the The eligibility criteria included print]. Eligible Trial Group was then randomly selected to the Offer Group and offered treatment. A “patient centred” approach to information and consent was adopted. Patients were: (i) not told about treat- ments that they would not be offered, and trial intervention information was only given to the Offer Group after random selection; (ii) not given prior information that their treatment would be decided by chance. A majority of the subjects (17/24) accepted the offer to participate in a trial, illustrating the Lachesis

6 ••••vcaniesewew pss otuindties

New insights about water and their potential for medicine and homeopathy

Homeopathy has had a difficult time the mentioned Homeopathy edition layers (3-4) around such surfaces before in recent years. The drive for evidence- most explanations use impurities in dissipating into random motion. This based medicine has been a strain for natural water as a possible conduit for research indicates that any protein or any therapy which does not command information preservation. electrically charged surface has a very patent protection of research invest ment, Since the Benveniste affair the large and stable liquid water crystal but homeopathy has had the additional memory of water “myth” has been around it which potentially is much problem that its ultra-molecular dilutions kept alive with the film Water, the larger than the original seed molecule are still lacking a plausible scientific great mystery (2006) in which leading and essentially is part of the whole explanation. international scientists and religious molecule and responsible for the A special edition of Homeopathy leaders discuss many of the unique primary interaction with receptors; the in 2007 1 provided a comprehensive properties of water, implying an ability receptors having their own large water overview of current hypotheses to to store information. Masaru Emoto 3 molecule layers as primary interaction explain homeopathy beyond its strong and some Russian scientists area. Prof Pollack has published several psychodynamic consultation effect, demonstrate a property of water to books on the impact on biochemistry often dismissed as placebo response. respond to electromagnetic influences and physiology of these findings. 6 He is Dismissed by corporations who need to emitted by the environment and any also the editor of the new peer reviewed prove that their product provides value living organism. This seems to indicate journal Wate r7, which I would also highly for money independent of the art of that different emotions induce unique recommend; the second edition contains therapeutic communication that any pattern formation within large water a new but highly technical explanation doctor should engage in, and on the dipole clusters and can be visualised by for a homeopathic working mechanism. 8 whole outperforms drugs in chronic shock freezing. Although this film won All this still does not explain how conditions. The size of this effect is now a lot of prizes, it was controversial and homeopathy works, but it indicates known to be extremely variable criticised by scientists and journalists possible mechanisms and new routes depending on medical condition, for promoting pseudoscience. For many of investigation. expectation, setting, structure and decades, through the drop method and style. I have no doubt that homeopathy copper crystallisation method, the provides a particular effective set of complex and variable inner structure Dr Helmut Roniger these attributes. of water has been successfully Doctor univ med MMed FFHom On the other hand, as a homeopath, demonstrated in anthroposophical I have little doubt about a specific ultra- publications. 4 molecular remedy effect hiding within In more recent years there has been a 1 Homeopathy (2007) 96, 141-208 the overall effect. The hypotheses to significant development in basic science 2 Davenas E, Beauvais F, Amara J, et al. explain such an effect have been water research. In 2009, Prof Gerald Human basophil degranulation summarised under the term of Pollack was invited by his university triggered by very dilute antiserum “memory of water” first coined by (Washington, USA) to give a lecture against IgE. Nature 1988; 333: 816-818 . the French Newspaper Le Monde honouring his years of research into 3 www.amazon.co.uk/Hidden-Messages - commenting on the controversy water’s unique anomalies. 5 It is a very Water-Masaru-Emoto/dp/1582701148 Jacques Benveniste’s Nature article instructive lecture to watch on YouTube. 4 www.amazon.de/Metall-Funktionstypen- caused in 1988. 2 The circumstances With very simple and easily reproducible Psychologie-Medizin-Alla-Selawry/dp/ and furore of this affair led to a experiments he demon strated a new 3776007400/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie= significant setback for basic science and so far unknown property that water UTF8&qid=1348180504&sr=1-4 research in homeopathy. The memory of is naturally inclined to quickly form large, 5 www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVBE water was dismissed as impossible stable, liquid crystals of up to a million wn6iWOo beyond a few nanoseconds of time after molecule thickness when bordering to 6 Water and the Cell: Cells,Gels and the which any temporary induced internal hydrophilic surfaces. These crystals are Engines of life water molecular structure would be large enough to be macroscopically 7 www.waterjournal.org dissolved into random molecular motion, visible. So far it was assumed that water 8 www.waterjournal.org/volume-2/ resulting in all information being lost. In organises itself only a few molecular czerlinski Viewpoint Have something to say? Want to get something off your chest? Share your views with Faculty members through simile’s Viewpoint feature. Contact John Burry on 01582 408682 or email [email protected]

7 •• case study

Dr Jonathan Hardy offers an intriguing case where a fibromyalgia sufferer finds relief from a remedy derived from an insect that ordinarily fills the patient with dread.

The patient is a 21-year-old woman work myself up in the worst case What is the job you do? who I shall refer to as P. I first saw scenario. P: I work in a home for children with her in April 2011. Her chief complaint very severe learning disabilities. I love was fibromyalgia but she was also Describe that more. it, but they can be really violent and you suffering from insomnia, anxiety P: My thoughts get worse and worse. get hit a lot, sometimes really hard. and urinary frequency. I get more panicked. I can have panic attacks sometimes – breathing faster, a Describe the main pain a bit more Please describe your complaint. runny nose and my eyes go red and hot please. P: It’s the pain and the trouble I have and sore and itchy. P: It’s a really strong, deep ache. sleeping. The pain is mostly in my back Sometimes it feels like you’re but it has gradually travelled up to my What are you like at your most constantly being punched. Sometimes neck and shoulders. Sometimes I have hysterical? it feels like someone’s stamping on my shooting pains. Sometimes I have P: I’m impossible to talk to or reason back all the time. It’s constant. It aching pains. It’s not in one spot, it can with. I’m crying and screaming and makes me feel really heavy, like I’m be widespread. It can go on for ten getting out of breath – breathing faster carrying a very heavy weight. days then I may have a day off. It can and faster. be very severe. Sometimes it can take Describe that more. me twenty minutes to get off the bed Describe it more. P: It’s like a heavy weight across my in the morning. P: I don’t talk with a normal voice; back. It feels like I want to stretch out it’s sharp and loud and snappy. and loosen it. It feels tight. The What is it like at its worst? muscles tense up and it’s hard to P: Stiff – I can’t move. I can get Say how this whole condition move. It’s like someone’s hanging a hysterical with it, really cry. affects you. heavy weight on my back. P: It stresses me out a lot because Describe it more please. I h ave such a high sickness record at What other problems do you have? P: The pain is really strong. I feel really work. I pick up infections a lot and it P: My eating. A lot of it was from stiff. It’s a really strong, heavy ache; affects my relationship with my boy- emotional abuse. I had my first a deep pain, not near the surface. friend. I’m agitated ( she is perspiring boyfriend when I was fifteen, and now, especially on her top lip) . I think I started trying to control my eating. Describe being hysterical. the pain’s my fault because of the job I Sometimes I just have one biscuit or P: Crying a lot and I can’t calm down. do. I don’t want help from anyone and I one apple a day and I use laxatives or I don’t want to deal with it. I can really don’t want to take painkillers. make myself sick on and off. I used to

8 Photo: Shutterstock/sootra A death’s head remedy

self-harm, scratching at my wrists with I need to get a good impression of I’m always body-checking – lifting up safety pins, not cutting, just scratching what you’re like as a person. my top and looking at my stomach – at my skin. I used to be quite angry. Please describe yourself to me. which I’d like to change. I always had I would kick and punch the walls. P: I worry constantly. It’s very hard to high expectations from my parents. I had depression when I was fifteen. switch off and not think about things. I was top of the class when I was I stopped making myself sick about a I’m very sociable and friendly. I like to younger. But it’s too much to live up year ago, but I still have real difficulty look after people. I love my job: the to. It can take me hours to get ready in with food.I also had nosebleeds all the good outweighs the bad. I’m not the morning. time when I was younger, most days. It pessimistic, but I am realistic. I get went on for years. I have real trouble frustrated if people help me. I don’t Say more about picking at yourself. with my bladder. It’s only for an hour or like feeling useless. P: I tense my body in to make it so before bed, but I’m constantly in I used to be very outgoing and look better. I’d like to cut off certain and out of the toilet. It’s a constant bubbly, and I still am when I’m with my bits to make it perfect. I look at the urging to pass water, but it feels a bit friends – that brings out the best in me. muscle tone. like being constipated, except with passing urine.

Describe it more. “I worry constantly. It’s very hard to P: It’s a really uncomfortable, strong, sharp, aching pain. It feels like I want switch off and not think about things. ” to pass water, but like it’s stuck – a blockage.

Describe the blockage more. I don’t have any self-esteem. I have How is this tendency, at its worst? P: Like a sewage pipe when quite negative views of myself. I can P: I won’t go out and I don’t want my someone’s blocked it. It feels like be a control freak. I’m a bit OCD boyfriend to touch me. I’m going to explode. about things. Please say more about your job. Anything else? Say more about not having any P: It’s in a residential home and P: I’ve had acne for about a year. self-esteem. school. I’ve been there three years. The spots are sore and itchy. I have P: I’m always comparing myself to There’s a lot of challenging behaviour. very oily skin. others. I’m always picking at myself. It can be really bad.

9 •• case study P h

o manly. At school I hated dolls. I had a t o :

S lot of guy friends. h u t t e r s What about colours for your clothing. t o c

k P: I wore a lot of black in the past. It / P e l

l helped me to feel skinny. I wouldn’t

S t u wear spotty patterns or flowers. That d i o would make me feel bigger and more frumpy. (She is wearing a T-shirt with a skull on it.)

Tell me about your T-shirt. P: I’m obsessed with skulls! I love them. I used to be a Goth. I wore leather jackets, big Doc Martin boots and studded jewellery, spiky jewellery.

What do you like about skulls? P: They’re lovely. I collect them.

Suffocation is a strong theme in the patient Do you have any other fears? P: I’ve developed a fear of closed, tight Do you have any dreams? so close so quickly and you don’t know spaces. It makes me feel restricted – P: When I was younger I had a where they are and the noise. They my worst nightmare would be buried recurrent dream of people trying to kill move quickly and they’re so small. alive in a coffin, tight, closed in, crowded. me, being chased through the forest, They’re hard to keep track of. They’re or pushed off a high building. If ever so quick and horrible. If it was a snake What would the opposite feeling be? I had a fever I would have a dream of it would be OK. You can keep track of P: Big open space. Lighter and lighter. someone putting more and more heavy it. I love snakes. You can breathe easier. tiles on top of me, and it was getting closer and closer. I felt restrained. Say more about that. Anything else you want to say? I couldn’t move – frozen to the spot: P: They move slower and they’re P: My family call me “useless”. I don’t all these massive ceiling tiles weighing bigger. Moths can come right in and really like it. down on me. get you. They can get so close to you before you can react and the feel of it – Why do they say that? Describe it more. its hairy wings flapping! And the colour: P: It’s because I’m so forgetful. I can P: It was quite suffocating. I was murky, dark, grey and brown. They’re also be quite unorganised and often running out of space – I don’t like sinister-looking! leave things until the last minute. closed spaces. It really panics me. I like having my space, being able to move. Describe them more. How are you at your most forgetful? I don’t like being restricted and I can’t P: The colours; those little crawling P: Sometimes I can forget what day of move. It’s like being tied down. For legs; hairy. the week it is, or what I have done example, I don’t like my boyfriend yesterday. Or I can ask a question and cuddling me sometimes; it makes me Do you have any other fears? two minutes later ask the same question feel stuck and it hurts if his arm is on P: Being abandoned. Left alone – it’s again. When I’m reading I just drift off. my shoulder. It feels tight. I feel frozen happened in the past. Ending up alone. I have to read it again to get it to sink in. to the spot and I don’t want anyone stopping me from being able to move. Any other fears? Case analysis It feels heavy and I’ve got to get away P: Financial – not having enough money This patient demonstrates a number of as soon as possible. for a nice house and family. Also, themes which are found in the inheriting all the illnesses from my Lepidoptera – the insect order of How does it feel at its worst? father’s side of the family. (Her father butterflies and moths . Narayana have P: It’s like someone’s put a heavy is blind and in his family there is a published a wonderful book written by weight on me. I need to get it off strong history of cancer and mental the late Patricia Le Roux, who straightaway because it’s aching and health problems.) pioneered the use of butterfly I’m stuck into the mattress. remedies and conducted many What sort of clothes do you like? provings of them. She gives the What would the opposite feeling be? P: Anything that makes me feel good. following as the most important P: Free. Mobile. Relaxed. Light. Able to Feminine now, but I used to be a homeopathic themes and move. Free will. tomboy. I felt masculine. characteristics of the lepidoptera:

Do you have any fears? Say more about that. Feeling of abandonment, P: Moths! I used to hate wasps and P: I did a lot of swimming and I had big no guidance bees. I don’t like big spiders. Little shoulders and muscely arms. I never • Feeling shipwrecked, rudderless, things which can move fast and come felt feminine. My shape – I felt too alone.

10 •• case study

• Bee-sting allergy Physical signs Clinical signs Generalities • Craving for honey • Suffocation (all the provers had Tend to be delicate Wrap their arms Aggravated by sun, symptoms of suffocating) and fragile around themselves warmth, autumn as if trying to defend This theme of suffocation is very strong in the patient, being their fragile bodies represented both in her dreams and conscious aversion to being smothered. I prescribed Acherontia Slim with an Better from dry atropos 200, one powder every two insubstantial weather, open spaces weeks. backbone Follow-up at five weeks P: I’ve been better. I’m feeling Love dancing. Food desires: sugar, calmer. It helps not waking up in Restless movement sweet things, wine, pain. The pain has been less. My rich food bladder’s a bit better. I advise the patient to continue one dose every four weeks. Wear bright colours Follow-up six weeks later P: I’m all right. My back is getting better. I’ve had no nosebleeds. My • Children feel unprotected by In the case above we see the sleep is a lot better. My bladder’s a adults/parents and vulnerable following Lepidoptera themes: lot better. I think maybe my • Lacking direction, limits and guidance • Abandonment – it is one of her fears memory’s slightly better. • Genetic disease – her father’s Metamorphosis blindness is genetic Long-term follow-up • Love to change their look • Gender confusion She has continued on occasional • Children love dressing up, wearing • Forgetful, disorganised, “flighty” doses of Acherontia atropos 200 for make-up • And very helpfully – an extreme over a year and made steady phobia about moths, which is progress. All her symptoms have Transexuality emphasised with great detail and improved greatly, including her • This comes from the general Insect feeling clumsiness and hysteria. confusion as to sexual identity combined with the desire for So which moth? We are helped here metamorphosis again by another psychological A proving of the Acherontia atropos peculiarity – her love for skulls. There is remedy was carried out by Patricia Genetic problems a large moth which has markings on its Le Roux in 2006. I am very grateful • Often a history of genetic problems back which resemble a skull, and this to Lee Kayne of Freeman’s in the family has led to it being named the Death’s Pharmacy for going to the trouble of Head Hawkmoth or to give it its obtaining the remedy from France. Poor mental agility scientific name, Acherontia atropos. • Poor memory and concentration, especially in children Key homeopathic themes of • Can’t concentrate, “butterfly minds”, Acherontia atropos: Dr Jonathan Hardy restless, hyperactive, agitated • Feeling abandoned MA BM FFHom*

Acherontia atropos into a chrysalis in an Acherontia atropos – the underground chamber. Death’s Head Hawkmoth – This moth adores honey. is a large moth with feathery It penetrates hives or nests antennae and wings. It is the of bees through the entry hole. heaviest European moth. The It is insensitive to bee venom, adult moth bears skull-shaped protected by its bristly coat and marking on the dorsal part of its wing scales. However, occasionally thorax. Its body is covered in thick black when gorged on honey it finds itself and yellow hairs. It has a reputation for bad luck unable to get out through the narrow entrance, and evil symbolism as in the film Silence of the whereupon it is suffocated by a band of irate bees. Lambs . Caterpillars particularly favour the potato It is then sealed in a layer of propolis . plant. The larva burrows into the earth, transforming Photo: Shutterstock/Mefodey The Death’s Head Hawkmoth

11 •• feature Homeopathy i Three years ago, a mixed bag of “young scientists” complained openly to the WHO about the activities of homeopaths in sub-Saharan Africa. They mentioned five projects in their ill-informed intervention, all of which are still running and homeopaths can feel guardedly optimistic about the progress being made. The Republic of South Africa (RSA) has a well-established group of medical homeopaths, reflecting the life’s work of Dr David Lilley. The training and regulatory requirements in the RSA for professional homeopaths are more demanding than in Europe. Perhaps because of this, there is little interaction between homeopaths in South Africa and in other sub-Saharan countries. Therefore projects in Tanzania, Malawi, Botswana and Swaziland continue to rely on volunteer professional homeopaths from Europe and elsewhere. With the aim of New graduates with Patricia Donnachie, Dr Maurice Peter Siminyu, becoming self-sustaining, these Marie Magre and Dr Noel Thomas projects train local people with a mix of teaching from volunteers in the clinic the Faculty, was there too (her third Kwale and work elsewhere in sub- setting; access to any clinic libraries working visit) as an external examiner. Saharan Africa, will encounter volunteer that may be available; and with variable This further strengthens the informal, professional homeopaths whose online teaching and support from mutually beneficial bond between advent urous enthusiasm puts us to homeopathic colleges in the UK. 4kenia and the Faculty. shame, even if one or two of their ideas Although, by and large, medical In May this year, Marie hosted the may challenge our medical knowledge. homeopaths are notable by their first ever Pan African Homeopathic One area where this is undoubtedly the absence, readers should not conclude Conference at the Kwale School. case is in the treatment of AIDS. that UK medical homeopaths are Jeremy and Camilla Sherr, now working AIDS has had a devastating effect merely distant observers of the African in Tanzania, organised it together with on the people of Tanzania, Swaziland, scene, as several Faculty members Marie and it was a great success. Botswana and Malawi, and sufferers have visited the continent to volunteer their skills and experience. One “Homeopaths do not choose to work in Africa particular project where we have for financial gain but to help people contributed to its continuing growth who are in desperate need of healthcare. and success, featured in previous ” issues of simile , is the 4kenia School Furthermore, the New Kenyan make up a large proportion of the of Homeopathy. Constitution, still to be ratified by their patients seen in clinics. The roll out of The 4kenia School of Homeopathy parliament, contains a sentence to the ARV (antiretroviral) treatment in the in Kwale is for student nurses wishing effect that complementary medicine past decade has changed the face of to learn about homeopathy. The should be available to all citizens. This HIV disease so much that we now very school’s director, Marie Magre, has very positive statement of intent is a rarely see those wraith-like, “walking improved the teaching and clinic welcome surprise. A junior minister in dead” people, half carried into a clinic. facilities, successfully raised funds for the Kenyan government, deputed to Instead, one sees patients on ARVs refurbishment and new buildings, and set up the legislative framework to with symptoms seemingly unresolved increased student numbers. Her support this statement of intent, had by treatment, or who have side-effects diligence in negotiating a difficult path no local precedents to follow, so he from the ARVs, or recurrent symptoms through the regulatory maze has been looked to the UK for assistance. Faculty relating to viral resistance, or to so successful Dr Maurice Peter members and staff kindly obliged with adherence issues. Siminyu, Provincial Director of Medical advice and information, for which the My experience suggests that Services, attended the 4kenia minister was extremely grateful. professional homeopaths encourage Graduation Day on 8th September. A peripatetic medical homeopath, HIV patients to follow conventional Patricia Donnachie, Nursing Dean of with the good fortune to travel beyond advice and stay on ARVs, and do their

12 n Africa best to liaise positively with conventional medical clinics. Faculty podiatrist Where I believe difficulties arise is in the interpretation of “clinical goes to Ghana change”. The natural history of HIV disease, untreated and treated, is Podiatrist Jane Greenwood diverse and unpredictable, especially in such poor rural African settings. explains why she is Marked clinical changes, for better volunteering to work in Africa or worse, may occur rapidly. For the and what she hopes to achieve. homeopath and the doctor, working in good faith in separate clinics, such changes may mean quite different My involvement with the charity things. Both may conclude that their Homeopathy in Africa came about treatment is responsible for any purely by chance, when a podiatry improvement in the patient’s colleague and homeopath Ralf Jeutter condition or, if the patient’s health happened to mention he was going to deteriorates, place the blame elsewhere. Ghana with a podiatry lecturer in July. the aim of bridging the gap between Sometimes a lack of understanding As I was just finishing my full-time traditional, alternative and orthodox of the markers of disease progression NHS job and contemplating my next medicine which will ultimately result in and viral resistance may create a false career move, the idea of integrating more limbs and lives being saved in the feeling of confidence, based on such homeopathy into podiatry in a different future. The Ghanaian ministry for health misinterpretations. This may lead culture appealed to my sense of and council for alternative medicine are to problems in homeopathic case adventure, so I volunteered my supportive of the project. analysis and follow up. services. During our time in Ghana we will be It is a disappointment that some I have never volunteered overseas working alongside trained homeopaths clinic libraries only contain books before but it has always been on my and diabetes experts, who will observe written by homeopaths in pre-ARV list of things to accomplish, so I’m homeopathy being integrated into days, while so few professional grasping the opportunity. The idea also podiatry. This therapeutic process has homeopaths have read, for instance, appealed to another of my colleagues produced some promising results in The Invisible Cure by Helen Epstein, who has an interest in homeopathy, the recent data collection project any GUM (Genitourinary Medicine) but no formal qualifications in the supported by the Faculty of Homeopathy, text, or the books by Botswanan subject, Ms Sobia Mansoor. So for the results of which will be discussed author, Unity Dow. While a GUM text three weeks in September the two at the Society of Chiropodists and educates about the pathological of us will be volunteering in clinics in Podiatrists annual conference to be expression of HIV disease, Epstein Ghana’s capital Accra and in the rural held in Glasgow in October. describes, and tries to explain, the community of Mafi Seva. deadly march of AIDS across sub- There is a desperate need for Saharan Africa. Dow’s stories and podiatrists in Africa. At present in Jane and Sobia are using their novels reveal individual and family Ghana there is no recognised podiatry African adventure to raise funds tragedies behind the statistics. It is service, but with sub-Saharan Africa set for the charity Homeopathy in a lack of such background information to experience an escalation in diabetes Africa and anyone wishing to that, I believe, leads to confusion in the coming years, we need to act make a donation can do so by around interpretation of “clinical fast. Readers of simile will know only visiting their JustGiving page at change” among some professional too well how diabetes can result in www.justgiving.com/ homeopaths. loss of limbs, infection and even death. JaneGreenwoodPodiatrist Despite this reservation, Early podiatry intervention can prevent homeopaths are doing excellent many of these problems; so while Homeopathy in Africa works for work in Africa, often in very difficult working at the clinics treating corns, the relief and prevention of sickness conditions. Homeopaths do not choose ingrowing toenails, traumatic wounds in Ghana through the promotion of to work in Africa for financial gain but and ulcers, we’ll also be educating homeopathy in partnership with to help people who are in desperate people in wound care and diabetes. local communities. It also delivers need of healthcare. Those who can How to train others to teach these health education in conjunction with afford the small cost – and the time – clinical skills is another important part local health workers and supports to follow their example will not be of what we will be doing, so that the the development of homeopathic disappointed at the rewards. education process continues after education and vocational training we have left. with local partners. Dr Noel Thomas MA MBChB Ghanaians will be taught an www.ghanahomeopathy.org DCH DObstRCOG DTM&H MFHom integrated approach to healthcare, with

13 •• case study

This edited case history of chronic prostatitis from Dr Raymond Sevar illustrates conifer themes and sycosis reaction pattern.

I first saw the patient in July 2002. He property. The prostate is better in dry, is a 48 year-old-man with brown hair hot, sunny weather; worse in wet and eyes. He is tanned, handsome weather and much worse in cold, wet and relaxed. I will call him J. weather. I like to be by rivers and fish for salmon and sea trout. I have got J: I’ve had prostatitis for over 20 years used to my back pain and just force and seen specialists all over the myself through the first ten minutes country. All the tests are OK and just of severe pain and continue to play show a chronic infection or inflammation tennis, but I have had to stop cycling in the prostate and that I only have one because of the prostatitis. The prostate functioning kidney; the other is scarred pain wakes me through the night. and calcified and atrophied. I’ve had back pain since I was 18 from a Health and life history rugby injury. J: I had a stutter till I was 16. I was I have continuous pain in the sent to boarding school from the age prostate and epididymis. The ache of seven. I had the shit beaten out of never really goes away. Sometimes me by older boys and made a place it gets really bad with recurrent for myself by being naturally good at infections. It’s worse in tight trousers sports. I was very lazy but ended up and worse sitting for a long time. with a degree in philosophy. I was a There is also a niggling lower healthy child apart from severe abdominal ache better after bowel recurrent attacks of cattle ringworm. movement. My parents were vets. The ringworm When I get flare-ups of the was painted with gentian violet. I got prostatitis it’s always the same. very skinny after a bad attack of It starts with a rash like herpes and salmonella. When I was 18 a rugby whiteheads on my penis, then the pain scrum went down on me and I have comes in the prostate – it takes all the had back pain ever since. I had mumps energy out of me. I feel that it just at 25. I took a year off after school and lives in me and the antibiotics have travelled around Canada. Then I did my not helped in years, so I don’t take degree in philosophy and after took them any more. It’s a weakness in another year off. I have had a lot of me that I cannot get over. different jobs. I joined the rat race and rose from sales rep to managing Do you feel you have been invaded? director, then just got bored with it. J: Yes, and it’s my own fault. I know I lived up a mountain for a year with who I got it from. Twenty-five years a peregrine falcon. Now I own a ago I had sex with an Australian mountain and a few houses in the woman without a condom and soon south of France which I rent out. after I got my first acute attack of I feel warm all the time. My herpes blisters and warts all over my girlfriend’s house is too hot for me. A conifer penis and a discharge. Since then I don’t feel the cold outside. I can I have never been well. I’ve had so overheat in bed at night. I use to wake many courses of antibiotics and had with night sweats all year round. the warts burnt off. If anyone deserved I sweat in my armpits when I am cold to catch a venereal disease it was me. and when I’m ill my sweat smells of I was having sex all over the place onions – onions don’t agree with me. I ask him a direct open question with so many women. I feel that it They go right through me and my about spirituality and clairvoyance. is divine retribution. urine smells of onions if I eat them, J: I knew when my father died. I just but I love onions. I have onions in woke up and knew he was dead. Then Observation: the patient produces everything, and I like to eat raw onions. later the phone went and I was told he wry smile. I love garlic and chilli and spicy things was dead. I always seem to know who and I adore tea. When I am ill my hair is on the phone when it rings. J: It’s better in my house in the south and face get greasy. I get a slump from of France. I sold my business six years 3 to 4.30 pm then my energy surges Observation: he has told me a lot ago and now I own and rent holiday up in the evening and night. but that is all he is willing to tell me,

14 agreement. The sycosis reaction I prescribe Medorrhinum 30C one pattern is clear and the rubrics below pill, one dose and then next day from Complete Repertory of Van advise him to continue with the Zandvoort all contain Thuja: Thuja LM1 2 drops daily. Two months later the patient attends the • Male; INFLAMMATION; Prostate follow-up appointment. gland; and gonorrhea, after J: I felt dreadful the day after the suppressed Medorrhinum, for 24 hours. I felt “Oh • Male; PAIN; Prostate gland; and God! Here it all comes again”. I had Spermatic cord pain in both testes and epididymis and • Generalities; WEATHER; Damp, prostate and pain passing urine and rainy, wet; aggravates I was aching all over. Then I woke up • Generalities; FOOD and drinks; the next day and I’ve not had any Onions desires; and Tea desires symptoms since. I just feel so much • Generalities: SYCOSIS; and better. I got a cold and didn’t get GONORRHEA Suppressed herpes and I have not had any pain in my genitals and no pain after Treatment and follow-up ejaculation. My girlfriend is pregnant. I prescribed Thuja occidentalis LM1 in 10% alcohol 30ml, 2 drops daily Observation: he gives me a big in water. I next saw the patient one smile and a silent “Thank you”. month later in August 2002 . J: The first two to three weeks I was J: I’ve had lots of back pain but that’s fine. Then I stopped the drops and a separate problem. I’ve had lumbar went to France and was OK there. pain every day since I was 18 when I restarted the drops last week. I went I suffered the injury. The specialist said cycling for the first time in 18 months that I had a lumbar disc problem from and the prostate flared up. I have the injury. My bowels are getting started playing hockey again and have slowly better, but I still have the feeling had lots of aches and pains. My of incomplete emptying. I go every bowels have changed a bit – they are two or three days.

The prostate is better in dry, hot, sunny weather; worse in wet weather and much worse in cold, wet weather... I have had to stop cycling because of the prostatitis. The prostate pain wakes me through the night.

less regular and more explosive. I have Further Analysis, treatment and to rush when I need to go. I get like outcome this when my prostate flares up. In Syctoic Co (Paterson) 200CH, 3 doses general I feel better with exercise – to restore his bowel flora and then ous case the worse I feel the greater the occasional doses of Medorrhinum and improve ment with exercise. My aches ascending LM potencies of Thuja and pains get better and I get a big occidentalis over the next year led to surge in energy. significant improvement, but he kept I am certain that over the weeks partially relapsing: three steps forward since the drops I have had more time and two steps back. for he has made it clear to me, without symptoms. I have not had an The sycosis reaction pattern is clear gently but firmly, that this is all that attack of herpes since the drops. It with: never well since suppression of he will ever tell me about himself. nearly came out and then just died gonorrhoea; aggravation from wet back. I would usually have had an attack weather; energy low in the morning Analysis and rubrics of herpes by now, and usually I get an and rising during the evening and I will never know what he learned attack of herpes at the start of each night; desire for onions. Many living up the mountain with the falcon, flare up but not this time. My whole life symptoms were initially recognised for that is earned knowledge and not my energy has been low in the morning as Thuja symptoms but really are part of what needs to be treated. I told and increases through the day and goes common to all the conifers. him so and he smiled and nodded in up in the evening and night. Ancient anthropological beliefs in

15 ••••cafesaet ustrue dies

Many symptoms were initially recognised as Thuja symptoms but really are common to all the conifers

reference to conifers in every continent, • Death and the after-life: the moment of culture and epoch. dying and overcoming it, transcending • Isolation, dissociation and emptiness • Something holy and sacred • Desire for a soul mate • Tree of life, death and the after-life • Knowledge and wisdom The patient is warm-blooded and

P • Sin and redemption worse from heat, so I thought maybe h o t

o • Split between passion and reason he needed another conifer remedy. :

S

h I continued his treatment with Sabina u t t

e Common fundamental symptoms and juniperus LM1, 2 drops daily for one r s t o themes of conifers. year and the improvement was c k / S sustained and remarkable. z a s

z • Old and frail, delicate and fragile - F a

b • Survival and food Dr Raymond Sevar i a n • Spirituality, religion, faith BSc MBChB DCH MRCGP MFHom

•• news extra BHA campaign reaches millions The British Homeopathic campaign including the Association’s (BHA) media Daily Mail , the Mail on campaign to promote the Sunday’s You magazine, health benefits of the Daily Express and homeopathy has been a the Daily Mirror , which resounding success. A final dedicated a full page to evaluation carried out by the BHA’s message under the PR agency running the the headline “We swear campaign shows that the by homeopathy”. The media coverage secured combined reach of all the during the summer had the publications that featured potential of reaching tens of the campaign is over 16.5 millions of people through million potential readers. online and print media. Online the BHA’s celebrities The campaign featured appeared most notably celebrity supporters talking on the Yahoo! Lifestyle about why they use website, which has homeopathy. Among those 5-million monthly users, who took part were and the Mail Online website actresses Susan Hampshire which attracts 48-million P

and Louise Jameson, team monthly users. h o t GB sprinter James The value of the media o :

w

Ellington, television coverage generated by the w w . presenter Gaby Roslin, campaign is calculated at b r o o

naturalist Sir David Bellamy almost £225,000. This k e b

and former New Labour figure is based on the e r l y n

cabinet minister Peter Hain advertising cost for . c o MP. comparable space in the m Several national same publications and on newspapers covered the the websites. Actress Louise Jameson

16 •• book review Homeopathy for Anger and Mortification by Massimo Mangialavori

Publishers: Narayana Publishers • 87pp ISBN: 978-3-941706 -58-3 Price: €9.80 from www.narayana-publishers.com or £8.30 from Amazon

This is a small (87 pages), attractive, beautiful summary which hardback booklet distilled from lecture attempts to understand notes based on a seminar given by the case, weaving Massimo Mangialavori in Switzerland in together all the mental/ December 2008. The focus is on emotional and physical patients and remedies where anger aspects and ideas about and mortification are pivotal issues in the metaphorical sense the understanding of the cases. The underlying the booklet opens with an introductory symptoms. chapter defining the subject and it There follows a explains that the word “mortification” layout of the repertor - derives from the Latin mortificus isation that Massimo meaning “causing death” and facere used in these cases. which means “to make or produce”. The rubrics are It was originally also a term used to grouped together in describe gangrene and necrosis, the “themes” reflecting implication being that this emotion is the main issues of far more rich and complex than mere the case, and then a anger or rage. section for “Follow-up”shows The introduction goes on in a in a logical and understandable way slightly more disorganised way to how the healing unfolds. This section The next section covers demonstrate how mortification and is scattered with nuggets of additional more briefly and in précis form about anger are connected and influenced information about each of the remedies. ten other remedies, using one or two by the crucial area of our self-worth/ After this there is a section where pages for each remedy. Some are esteem, our narcissistic balance, Massimo summarises the key areas familiar to us like Staphysagria and our need for support and our ability, of each remedy. His aim is to impart others less so like Paris quadrifolia. or not, to express effective aggression. a deeper understanding and a fuller, Finally, there is an appendix of At the end of the introduction the author more meaningful picture. For example Massimo’s repertory additions for touches on the imprecision of our with Ipecacuanha he says, “Like so each remedy reflecting his extensive repertories in this area and offers many other vexed and mortified experience. suggestions for important rubrics for remedies, anger is not so easily I would recommend this booklet anger, vexation and mortification. expressed on the emotional level. to all homeopaths. It is packed with The next section of the book is Emotion is more easily expressed insights and nuances and there is made up of three chapters, each physically, especially in the digestive always something new to discover covering three remedies in depth; and respiratory tract with spasmodic even for experienced homeopaths Ipecacuanha, Senega officinalis and cough, projectile vomiting etc…” who, I believe, would benefit from Magnetis polus australis. Similarly with Senega officinalis: its careful and repeated study. For Each of these chapters is in line “…the concept ‘worse lying down’ those homeopaths who are less with Massimo’s seminar format. Firstly is similar to many insects such at familiar with Massimo’s work and there is a paper case of a patient who Blatta that are worse lying on their because it’s a slim volume, this book has had successful treatment with the back; it’s a symbolic representation would be a good introduction to his remedy and who has had follow-up for of weak ness. Cantharis, Arnica and style. It does not go into any great a number of years. In the live seminars, other macho remedies suffer when depth about his methodology, for this after the case presentation, there is they are in bed.” I think this whole you are referred to Praxis: Volumes 1 a discussion from all participants section is successfully done. and 2 , but this in no way mars the including Massimo, of thoughts and At the end of the each of these overall understanding and enjoyment impressions about the patient. In the chapters the author offers comparisons of the work. book, under the heading “Impressions with other remedies and highlights of the Case”, all these various thoughts things in common and things that Dr David Fitton and strands are brought together in a differentiate. MBBS DRCOG DTM&H DGM MFHom

17 •• events

•• examinations calendar 2012/13

EXAM EXAM DATE VENUE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS

MEMBERSHIP EXAM – OPEN TO NURSES AND DOCTORS WHO HAVE PASSED THE PHCE MFHom / MFHom (Nurse) 7 December 2012 Glasgow 11 October 2012 MFHom / MFHom (Nurse) TBA TBA 12 April 2013 MFHom / MFHom (Nurse) TBA TBA 20 September 2013

SPECIALIST REGISTRATION – OPEN TO DOCTORS WHO HAVE GAINED THE MFHom Assessment 11 March 2013 Luton 7 January 2013 Assessment 18 March 2013 Glasgow 14 January 2013 Assessment 11 October 2013 Glasgow 11 August 2013 Assessment 18 October 2013 Luton 18 August 2013

DENTAL MEMBERSHIP EXAM MFHom (Dent) 13 September 2013 Luton 13 July 2013

VETERINARY LICENTIATE EXAM LFHom (Vet) 7 June 2013 Bristol 5 April 2013

MEMBERSHIP EXAM – OPEN TO VETS WHO HAVE PASSED THE LFHom (Vet) Vet MFHom TBA Oxon 1 February 2013

What’s on the website www.facultyofhomeopathy.org

Members-only area Valuable new information is now available in the Members’ area of the Faculty website.

■ Guidance for promoting your website ■ Peer appraisal forms and information ■ Congress presentations for review ■ Media toolkit

To access the Members’ area you will need your user name and password to login – for a login reminder email: [email protected]

18 •• ecavseen tss tudies

•• what’s on 6th Children’s Complementary Therapy Network (CCTN) conference Regular meetings Event Date: 18/05/2013 W Surrey & W Sussex Homeopathic Group Venue: Birmingham Children’s Hospital Event Date: 20/11/2012 – Event Time: 20:00 until 22:00 This conference will bring together a wide range Members include doctors, vets, dentists and pharmacists. The aim of the group is to act of professionals interested in learning about as a forum for ongoing learning and support, covering all aspects of homeopathy and and advancing the field of complementary therapies and integrated medicine in children. medical practice. Presentations on paediatric CAM will be The Punch Bowl, Oakwood Hill, nr Ockley, Surrey RH5 5PU. complemented with interactive workshops to • Charles Forsyth on 01737 226338 (office), 01737 248605 (home), 07802 293006 (mobile) enhance delegates’ skills and knowledge. or [email protected] Delegates will include complementary therapists, doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, Leeds Homeopathic Group OTs, researchers, teachers, service Regular meetings in the Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Adel, north Leeds. developers, etc. The CCTN (www.freshwinds. org.uk/cctn) is a UK based national network Jutta Prekow on 0113 203 7329 or at [email protected] • (with over 400 members internationally) that provides a common platform for conventional and complementary therapy professionals to ECH Training Workshop for School experience. Please book your place by share training, education and clinical practice Educators in Brussels contacting the BHH Academic Administrator in the use of complementary therapies for Event Date: 16/11/2012 at [email protected] at least children. Membership of the CCTN is free. Event Time: 09:30 until 17:30 one week prior to the event. The CCTN is a project within Freshwinds A training workshop for educators looking • For more information, please call charity (www.freshwinds.org.uk). at how to implement an educational self- 0117 9466087 • For more information please contact: experiment ation inside their teaching Dr Pankaj Shah at [email protected] programme. The workshop is intended for The 8th Annual ICCMR Congress homeopathic teachers, board members Event Date: 11/04/2013 – 13/04/2013 1st HRI International Homeopathy and officials of homeopathic schools. The 8th International Congress of Research Conference in Barcelona Presented by: Helen Renoux, Jean Pierre Complement ary Medicine Research – Event Date: 31/05/2013 – 02/06/2013 Jansen.Course language: English. ICCMR 2013 – will focus on the global This landmark event will bring together both Admission fee: None sustainability of health care for long-term active researchers and those with an interest • Contact: [email protected] conditions such as diabetes, chronic pain, in homeopathy research. They will hear from cardiovascular disease, psychological world experts about the latest findings in this Gradually Evolving and Mastering problems, neurodegenerative conditions and rapidly developing field. Sensation (GEMS) arthritis. Venue: Institute of Education, Confirmed keynote speakers include: Event Date: 23/11/2012 London Dr Gustavo Bracho, Dr Peter Fisher, Event Time: 09:15 until 16:30 • For more information or to book visit Dr Stephen Baumgartner, Dr Elio Rossi Penny Brohn Centre, Pill, Bristol, BS20 0HH www.ICCMR2013.org and Professor Chris Endler. GEMS are open to fully qualified practitioners • For more information visit holding either MFHom or RSHom. Each day Veterinary Congress 2013 in www.homeoinst.org/conference will be worth 5 hours 45 minutes CPD time. Badenweiler, Germany Please note that places at GEMS days are Event Date: 19/04/2013 – 21/04/2013 International Congress on Naturopathic very limited. Book your place at least one This is going to be a real highlight for animal Medicine (ICNM) week prior to the date by contacting homeopaths, with a raft of experts and Event Date: 07/07/2013 – 09/07/2013 [email protected] leaders in the field – a unique chance to hear This event will attract many of the most • For more information call 0117 9466087 and engage with such a selection of top inspiring and influential multi-disciplinary homeopaths in this field. Naturopathic physicians, therapists and Trees – A Master Class with Dr Liz Among the speakers will be the well-known healthcare professionals from around the Thompson British vets Tim Couzens, Sue Armstrong and world, who are dedicated to improving Event Date: 24/11/2012 John Saxton. patient care and defining the future of Event Time: 10:00 until 16:30 • For more information visit the congress alternative healthcare. Penny Brohn Centre, Pill, Bristol, BS20 0HH. www.narayana-publishers.com/veterinary_ • For more information visit This master class will suit all levels of congress_2013.php www.icnmcongress.com Volunteers needed! The Faculty is looking for volunteers to help man its exhibition stand at two healthcare conferences later this year. The next conference we’re planning to attend is the Royal College of Midwives Conference in Brighton on 13-14 November 2012 . We are also considering taking exhibition space at one of the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) “One-Day Essentials” conferences , which focus on one area of clinical care. The one-day event we are targeting is on musculoskeletal conditions, which is taking place in Leeds on 20th November 2012 .

If you can spare some time to promote the Faculty of Homeopathy at one or both of these important events, please contact Nanci Fawcett for more details on 01582 408679 or email [email protected]

19 •• contacts

Who to contact at the Faculty

•• staff

● Cristal Sumner – Chief Executive: ● Tracey Rignall – Membership Officer: [email protected] trignall @facultyofhomeopathy.org 01582 408674 01582 408681

● ● John Burry – Communications Officer: Lilia Russell – Executive Assistant to Chief [email protected] Executive: 01582 408682 [email protected] 01582 408676

● Nanci Fawcett – Education Manager: ● Mohammed Saqib Ali – Web and Social Media [email protected] Officer: 01582 408679 [email protected] 01582 408680 ● Robert Mathie – Research Development Adviser: [email protected] Faculty of Homeopathy 01582 408683 Hahnemann House, 29 Park Street West Luton LU1 3BE ● Nilesh Mulji – Financial Controller (part-time): Tel: 01582 408680 • Fax: 01582 723032 Email: [email protected] [email protected] www.facultyofhomeopathy.org 01582 408678

•• faculty council

● Sara Eames, President: ● Russell Malcolm, Dean: [email protected] [email protected]

● Liz Thompson, Vice-President: ● Patricia Ridsdale, Members’ Committee Convener: [email protected] [email protected]

● Peter Darby, Dental Dean: [email protected] ● Helmut Roniger, NHS Secondary Care Representative: ● Christopher Day, Veterinary Dean: [email protected] [email protected] ● John Saxton, Immediate Past-President: ● Patricia Donnachie, Nursing Dean: [email protected] [email protected] ● Ralf Schmalhorst, NHS Primary Care ● Jonathan Hardy, Independent Practice Representative: Representative: [email protected] [email protected]

● ● Lee Kayne, Pharmacy Dean: Nick Thompson, Promotion Committee Convener: [email protected] [email protected]

● Tariq Khan, Podiatry Dean: ● Andrea Wiessner, Treasurer: [email protected] [email protected]

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