smle The Faculty of Homeopathy Newsletter October 2013

official statement clarifying the govern - Health minister’s homeopathy U-turn ment’s current position on NHS homeo - pathy to ensure the public – and in pathy is seen by many as an attempt to particular those millions of people h

t draw a line under the issue and put an end through out the UK who use homeopathy l a e

H to the constant questioning, thus allowing and want NHS access to this form of

f o

t him to concentrate on talking about the treatment – are fully aware of its contin- n e government’s NHS reforms. uing availability on the NHS. The BHA is m t r a

p However, concerns have been raised waiting for his reply. e D

: that by voicing a personal opinion about Mr Hunt’s U-turn was widely reported o t

o homeopathy on national radio, the in the media and resulted in Faculty h P minister’s viewpoint could be mistaken president, Dr Sara Eames, appearing on Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt (above), by the public as government policy. As Radio 5 Live and BBC World News where has publicly stated that he no longer this is most definitely not the case, the she passionately debated the future of supports homeopathy in an interview on British Homeopathic Association (BHA), NHS homeopathy with arch sceptic Radio 5 Live . Questioned on his position on behalf of patients, has written to Professor David Colquhoun, a pharma- towards the complementary therapy Mr Jeremy Hunt calling on him to make an cologist at University College London. Hunt claimed that as a young member of parliament he once, at the request of a constituent, signed an early day motion (EDM) praising the work of the NHS 2014 Congress announced homeopathic hospitals. But despite The next British Homeopathic Congress willingly signing the EDM in 2007 it will take place in Glasgow from 13 to appears the minister has now had a 15 November, 2014. The venue, subject change of heart and his reply to the to contracts being signed, will be interviewer’s question was unequivocal: Glasgow’s historic Grand Central Hotel, “I don’t support homeopathy.” which recently has undergone a £20- Ever since his appointment was million refurbishment transforming it announced in September 2012, Mr Hunt into one of the city’s most stylish four-

has been asked repeatedly to clarify his star hotels l e t o

views on the therapy but up to now has “Glasgow was agreed by Faculty H

l a r refused to be drawn one way or the other. Council as our 2014 Congress venue t n e

His sudden public rejection of homeo- for a number of reasons,” said Chief C

d n

Executive, Cristal Sumner. “Foremost is a r G that we all felt we should show support w o g

for our colleagues in Scotland who have s a l G

been battling to retain services of late. y s e

We also felt it important to host the t r u o

event in the north again, someplace c

o t

easy to reach and in a lively city centre. o h P Glasgow fits the bill and the programme Glasgow Grand Central Hotel is already developing into something special. I personally can’t wait to join architecture and design was built in everyone next year.” 1989 from the 1901 drawings of Although the congress theme has internationally acclaimed Scottish IN THIS ISSUE: yet to be decided, plans are already architect Charle Rennie Mackintosh News 1, 3 underway to make the event as (1868–1928), which he had produced for Editorial 2 memorable as previous years. These a competition that sought designs for a Research update 5 include the social events which for 2014 “Grand Residence for an Art Lover”. Conference reports 6, 8 will feature the ever-popular Gala dinner Further information about the 2014 Case studies 10, 15, 16 on Saturday night and an evening trip to British Homeopathic Congress, Feature 13 the House for an Art Lover. Set in the including booking forms and a call for What’s on 19 grounds of Bellahouston Park, this abstracts, will be appearing in simile fabulous example of modernist and on the Faculty website. •• editorial

A voice from the Faculty Council Jane E Greenwood

On 7 March 2013 I was appointed I approached Mr Lewis to correct these trials, which is vital if homeopathy is promotions convener for the Faculty of errors and he told me he doesn’t want to be taken seriously in the future. Homeopathy (FOH), having previously to stop homeopathy, just remove it from Although we still await the results, served as the podiatry members’ the NHS. To be fair, I found him to be the importance of this work cannot representative on the Members’ quite an amiable fellow but he is very be underestimated, for it shows our Committee for almost of ten years. serious and committed, and any attempt opponents and, more importantly, I’ll be very open with you all – I had at dialogue with him or others of his ilk, other healthcare professionals and the some misgivings about taking on the in my opinion, would be fruitless. scientific community that homeopaths new role and remember voicing my Central to the homeopathy debate are serious about rigorous research reservations at the council meeting is the scientific evidence. Interestingly, and committed to demonstrating that just before this year’s AGM. at the same time I was invited to join homeopathy is evidence based. Nevertheless, I decided to “test the the Faculty Council I was also studying However, as reported in last month’s water” (no pun intended) and see for for my MSc in podiatry for which simile Research Update, in future myself the challenges we currently I needed to acquire the skills and homeopathy may be known as face as statutorily registered healthcare knowledge for critically appraising adaptive network nanomedicine to professionals using homeopathy and research literature. This made me “reflect the integration of our historical try to understand why homeopathy is question my own podiatry practice. medical system with modern scientific subjected to so much hostility. Was I delivering evidence-based findings”. Perhaps a rebrand at this To this end I decided to enter the practice? If not, was I potentially point in time is not such a bad idea? lions’ den and attend a “Skeptics in the Pub” event in Sheffield. The “skeptic “the more people involved with the movement” claims to pursue the truth through reason and evidence. The talk organisation, the richer and more vibrant I attended was given by Andy Lewis, it will become . a well-known homeopathy antagonist, ” who on this occasion was aiming to putting patients at risk? These were In the current climate it is easy for debunk Steiner schools. However, just two of the many questions that us to feel isolated and alone. Active homeopathy was also discussed and I asked myself and others about the involvement in the Faculty can quickly I couldn’t fail to notice a few factual interventions we increasingly have dispel these feelings. Simply by joining errors in what was being said. Later available to us. These questions have the Promotions Network you will become particularly relevant, for as from receive email updates keeping you 2014 advanced practitioner podiatrists informed of the latest developments and physiotherapists will be able to concerning homeopathy, and I promise independently prescribe medicines. you it’s not all bad news! To become smle I’ve also read Bad Pharma , a book part of the Promotions Network by Ben Goldacre, which raised more contact the Faculty’s communications The Faculty of Homeopathy questions about drug interventions officer at jburry@facultyofhomeopathy. Newsletter and the pharmaceutical industry’s less org who will put you on the mailing list. than objective approach to research. Alternatively, there are still a Editor: John Burry It appears that many drugs we have number of vacancies on the Members’ Consultant Editor: Cristal Sumner thought to be evidence based are in Committee, the work of which is fact not, and this has undoubtedly explained in an article by Dr Gary Faculty of Homeopathy harmed patients. Several drug Smyth on pages 13 and 14. Or why Hahnemann House companies have deliberately misled not write for this newsletter; your 29 Park Street West Luton LU1 3BE medicine licensing bodies and views and ideas are important to the healthcare professionals by hiding Faculty and getting them published in Tel: 01582 408680 data and publishing only favourable simile is a great way of sharing them Fax: 01582 723032 outcomes for their products. The All with colleagues. Email: [email protected] Trials 1 campaign has led to certain These are just a few of the ways Web: www.facultyofhomeopathy.org pharmaceutical companies declaring for you to become actively involved with All the material in this publication is copyright they will publish the results of all the Faculty. And the more people who and may not be reproduced without permission. trials. So in future let us hope evidence- are involved with the organisation, the The publishers do not necessarily identify with based medicine is exactly that and all richer and more vibrant it will become. or hold themselves responsible for contributors’, correspondents’ or advertisers’ opinions. healthcare professionals will be more reliably informed. Jane E Greenwood Design: Wildcat Design [email protected] This leads me on to the British MChS DPodM DFHom(Pod) Homeopathic Association’s (BHA) Printing: Berforts Information Press systematic review programme and Reference meta-analysis of placebo-controlled 1. www.alltrials.net

2 •• news

A date for your diary Faculty pharmacist The Annual General Meet - ing (AGM) of the 70th wins award session of the Faculty of Homeopathy will take place Earlier this year, Faculty County Antrim. on Thursday 13 March 2014. pharmacist Eoghan O’Brien “At Bannside pharmacy The venue in London will was honoured at the Northern our goal is to provide the best be announced later. The Ireland Healthcare Awards possible healthcare service Richard Hughes Memorial when he was named winner for our customers,” says Lecture follows the AGM. of the Education and Self Eoghan. The speaker and topic will Development for the Future To achieve this, Eoghan be announced shortly. of Pharmacy Award. ensures his staff complete The Faculty is seeking The annual awards, spon- training programmes relevant nominations for the follow - sor ed by Medical Communi - to their role in the pharmacy Eoghan O’Brien ing posts: President, Primary cations Ltd, publishers of team. This enables them to Care representative, Second - pharmacy and healthcare mag - offer patients the most up-to- ing the award on behalf of ary Care representative azines, recognise out stand ing date information relevant to the pharmaceutical giant, and Independent Practice achievement in the healthcare their condition and where Mr Gary Marshall said representative. Members sector in the Province. necessary supply them with Eoghan’s project was well will be receiving nomination Eoghan says he was an appropriate medicine: thought through and that he forms in the post. Any “absolutely shocked” at conventional, herbal, homeo - was a deserved winner. member interested in being winning the award, as the pathic or a dietary supplement. Dr Gary Smyth, Chair of nominated for one of these standard of competition was “The overall aim is to the Faculty of Homeopathy positions should contact extremely high. empower the pharmacy’s Northern Ireland branch, said: Cristal Sumner at csumner@ The judges said they were customers to take more “This is a very appropriate facultyofhomeopathy.org impressed with Eoghan’s responsibility for their own recognition of all of Eoghan’s or call 01582 408674. dedication and innovation health,” says Eoghan. dedication and hard work Elections for these posts in introducing a culture of The Education and Self within both pharmacy and will be held early in 2014 homeopathy. I wish him and the results ratified at education, training and develop - Development for the Future every continued success the AGM. ment throughout his Bannsid e of Pharmacy category was pharmacy in Portglenone, sponsored by Pfizer. Present - for the future.”

Faculty website makeover Veterinary to aid navigation around the site; and a Twitter feed. Dean The main innovation, however, cannot be seen and The Faculty of involved moving the website Homeopathy is seeking to a Word Press template. This allows Faculty staff to applications for have greater control over the position of managing the content of the Veterinary Dean . site, eliminating the need for To commence office in external website support. January 2014. Mohammed Saqib Ali, the Faculty’s digital market - Any veterinary member ing officer, said: “The main advantage of moving to with a VetMFHom is Word Press is that now the welcome to apply. content management is Deadline for exclusively in-house. With applications is the the old system we had to 15 November 2013. rely on outside support when we wanted certain elements If interested Visitors to the Faculty website now has a brighter more of the site changed, which in this position, will have noticed that it has modern design and is easier could take up to two weeks. please contact undergone a makeover. It still to navigate. Now the changes can be provides members with the Among the new features made immediately and Cristal Sumner at latest news, research inform - visitors will find a video player without incurring any cost.” csumner@facultyof ation, examination dates and on the home page; an events So why not visit www. homeopathy.org or forthcoming events – along section integrated with facultyofhomeopathy.org and call 01582 408674. with much, much more – but Google maps; a graphic “slider” let us know what you think.

3 •• news

Charity cycle challenge New integrative healthcare raises funds for the BHA charity launched in Scotland British Homeo pathic Associat - the journey into work.” Collection, a restoration and ion (BHA) funds have been But it rained only once digitisation project based on boosted by more than £800 during the month and on Friday the older journals and books thanks to the efforts of the 29 August Tracey pedalled in the library collection. Faculty’s membership officer, home to successfully complete The new charity is a Tracey Simmons. her month-long challenge. membership organisation To raise money for her “Overall I enjoyed cycling with no membership fees, favourite charity Tracey aband- much more than I thought I and anyone living in Scotland oned her car and cycled to would and will definitely be can become a member. The work throughout August, a getting on my bike more membership will elect the round trip of eight miles a day often, but perhaps not every board of trustees annually. and a total of 176 miles over day,” said Tracey. “But most The financial model is to be the month. It was the first importantly, I’m delighted to supported in money, time time Tracey had ridden a bike have raised so much money Dr Bob Leckridge and skills from volunteers, regularly since she was a for the BHA.” supporters and donors. teenager, and she admits The BHA is the Faculty’s A new Scottish charity promot - Dr Bob Leckridge is the to having had a number of sister organisation, and as a ing the need for diversity in first Chair of The Vital Force. concerns before embarking charity it relies on generous healthcare is now operating An inaugural AGM to elect on her cycle challenge. donations and the fund-raising from the NHS Centre for the first formal board took “I was concerned about efforts of its supporters to Integrative Care – Glasgow place in early October. cycling home as it’s uphill enable it to fulfil its aims: Homeopathic Hospital (NHS The Vital Force is a almost all the way, as well as • Promote wider access to CIC). Scottish Charitable Incorpor - the weather because I didn’t homeopathy for everyone The charity is called The ated Organisation (SCIO), want to get my hair wet on • Encourage more research Vital Force and will develop, which is a new legal form of • Provide high quality promote and deliver courses, charity in Scotland, registered information to the public workshops, campaigns, with and monitored by the • Educate healthcare information and research in Office of the Scottish Charity professionals about integrative approaches to Regulator (OSCR). homeopathy healthcare. Specifically, it will If you are keen to actively look after the British Homeo - contribute to a positive The Faculty’s It’s not too late to show your pathic Library in NHS CIC, development of health and support for Tracey’s cycle and has plans for two exciting healthcare in Scotland, challenge. To make a donation projects there. The first is become a member by Twitter visit http://uk.virginmoney the creation of a homeopathic contacting The Vital Force account giving.com/TraceySimmons. learning network, creating and on 0141 211 1617 or email Alternatively, email tsimmons@ sharing materials developed [email protected]. now has 1049 britishhomeopathic.org or call by users of the library. The To find out more visit followers . her on 01582 408681. charity also plans a Classic www.thevitalforce.org

To keep Veterinary training group calls time up to date An organisation providing set the venture was successful South Africa, Canada, Latvia training in veterinary homeo- and over the years its activities and Japan. with the very pathic medicine has announced expanded to include vets and News of the HPTG’s latest news it is to dissolve due to a fall in members from the medical demise will undoubtedly be a student numbers. The Homeo - and veterinary nursing source of great sadness, not and views pathic Professionals Teaching professions. In due course only to the present partners about Group (HPTG) will cease all vets joined both the core but also to all those who in teaching activities once the teachers and the governing the past have given so much homeopathy current courses are completed partnership, and to reflect its time and expertise to homeo - join this at the end of June 2014. expanding role the name of pathic education through the vibrant social Originally called the the organisation was changed organisation, as well as the Homeopathic Physicians to the Homeopathic Profess - many students who have media forum . Teach ing Group, the organis - ionals Teaching Group. Later, benefited from it courses. ation was founded in 1992 by changes in recruitment Education in veterinary a group of pioneering Faculty circumstances led to the homeopathic medicine will Log on to trained doctors with the aim organisation becoming an all not cease, and the spirit of http://twitter.com/ of providing training in veterinary group, providing the HPTG continues at the fohhomeopathy homeopathic medicine to courses in the UK and, at Faculty teaching centres both fellow doctors. From the out - various times, in Australia, in the UK and abroad.

4 •• research

•• research update

From the journals BHA research In this issue, we look at two papers from outside the field of Our systematic review and meta- homeopathy. They present interesting – perhaps important – analysis of placebo-controlled trials perspectives on the “placebo effect” and on clinical trial design. of individualised homeopathic My thanks to Bob Leckridge for alerting me to the second paper. treatment is continuing apace; the synthesis of results is now well underway, being carried out Comparatively powerful placebos according to the study protocol published in the BHA website’s The authors aimed to test for differences (MD=-0.29, 95% CI=-0.62 to 0.05, Research section ( Our systematic between treatment and placebo effects P=0.10); however, when all criteria for review programme ). The corres p - within similar trial populations. For reducing bias were ruled out, placebos ond ing review and analysis of continuous outcomes data, they were more effective than treatments clinical trials in veterinary homeo - compared mean difference (MD) (MD=1.59, 95% CI=0.40 to 2.77, pathy is also well advanced. between placebo and no treatment with P=0.009). In trials with binary outcomes MD between treatment and placebo. (N=37), treatments were significantly Robert Mathie, For binary outcomes data, they more effective than placebos (RR=0.72, Research Development Adviser, compared the risk ratio (RR) for 95% CI=0.61 to 0.86, P=0.0003). British Homeopathic Association treatment benefit (versus placebo) with Treatment and placebo effects were not the RR for placebo benefit (versus no different in 22 out of 28 sub-group treatment). Several sub-group analyses analyses. Of the six sub-groups with regimen, and trials involving such were conducted: objective versus differences, treatments were more placebos must be adequately blinded. subjective outcomes; conditions tested effective than placebos in five. in three or more trials; trials with varying The authors conclude that placebos Reference degrees of bias. and treatments often have similar effect Howick J, Friedemann C, Tsakok M, Watson R, Tsakok T, Thomas J, Perera R, Fleming S, In trials with continuous outcomes sizes. Placebos with comparatively Heneghan C. Are treatments more effective (N=115), there was no difference powerful effects can benefit patients than placebos? A systematic review and between treatment and placebo effects either alone or as part of a therapeutic meta-analysis. PLoS One 2013; 15 : 8. From averaged to individualised clinical outcome

titration to achieve adequate pain relief with tolerable adverse events: only those patients with treatment success are then randomised, blindly, between continuing therapy and placebo. Such trials, known as “enriched enrolment, randomised withdrawal” (EERW) trials, have lower failure rates. EERW trials may therefore reflect the “real world” more accurately, and might be a more appro-

p priate test of efficacy for many drugs. h o

t EERW trial designs thus seem o :

W promising, but there are few good i k i m examples, and they are not always e d i

a accepted or understood. The authors . c o

m make the comment that new trial /

r

o designs of this nature are also o t 6 potentially important for non-drug 6 Could EERW trials be a better way to test drugs? interventions, including complementary medicine, which may produce This article is based on the awareness works for each individual patient. substantial benefits in relatively few that most analgesic drugs work well but From a research perspective, individual patients. [The comment may in only a small percentage of people. classical clinical trials may under- particularly apply to clinical trials of More generally, it is known that most estimate drug efficacy, and fixed-dose non-individualised homeopathy – RTM] conventional drugs work in only 30-50% regimens may exacerbate adverse Reference of people. The authors argue that we events and withdrawals, resulting in Moore A., Derry S, Eccleston C, Kalso E. need to move away from a focus on higher failure rates. An alternative Expect analgesic failure; pursue analgesic average response and to seek out what approach is to allow patient-directed success. BM J 2013; 34 6: f2690.

5 •• research

Complementary medicine research comes Dr Peter Fisher reports on the ISCMR’s International Congress for Complementary Medicine Research.

In April, London hosted the eighth congress split into four streams: on of a trial of homeopathic treatment of annual congress of the International education, musculoskeletal, medicine autoimmune thyroiditis in children from Society for Complementary Medicine and qualitative methods. Over the next the Central Council for Research in Research (ISCMR) which had the day and a half there were also symposia Homeopathy, India. theme “Long Term Conditions: focusing on social science research in Dr Robert Mathie gave a presentation developing global, integrative and East Asia, medicine, health services on the development of a method for sustainable solutions”. The event research, spirituality and health, cross assessing model validity of clinical trials was held at the University of London disciplinary methodology, CAMbrella of homeopathy on which he is leading. Institute for Education and attended (the pan-European research network Further presentations covered a trial by nearly 500 delegates from all over for complementary and alternative of homeopathy for Attention Deficit the world including China, Korea, India, medicine) and use of technology in Hyperactivity Disorder from India Japan, the US and Canada, Australasia, integrative oncology research. Parallel with positive results; a 129 subjects Latin America and many European sessions included neurology/addiction, randomised controlled trial of homeo - countries. chronic illness, cancer, basic science, pathy for hypertension, again with At lunch time on 11 April the the consultation, research methodology, positive results; the work of the congress opened with a history of psychological distress, paediatrics health Pitigliano Hospital in Tuscany; and ISCMR from Professor Marja Verhoef, maintenance, placebo integration safety, Dr Laurence Terzan, Medical Director Canada Research Chair in Complement- mindfulness and health, and women’s at Boiron, delivered a talk on the EPI-3 ary Medicine at the University of Calgary, health, among others. programme, a study of the impact of and was followed by a warm and There was also a “soapbox” session homeopathy in primary care in France. entertaining welcome from Professor for controversial ideas, featuring among Poster presentations featuring Aidan Halligan of University College others, Dr Helmut Roniger arguing that homeopathy included a systematic London Hospitals. Then Sir John it will soon be unethical to practise review of the safety of homeopathy Oldham – recently retired as the medicine without integration. In total from Denise Adams at the University Department of Health’s clinical lead there were over 120 oral presentations of Alberta, Canada; a discussion of for quality, innovation, productivity and and around 400 poster presentations the challenges of clinical trials for prevention – delivered a rather more in two separate sessions. homeopathy as an add-on in cancer sobering address on the formidable treatment; 33 case histories of pressures facing the NHS and health Homeopathy depression treated with homeopathy services throughout the world. Homeopathy was well represented from Ronko Itamura in Japan; and a and featured in presentations that report from Eva Kristova from Prague Varied programme looked at: a mapping of the untapped estimating that 20% of Czech GPs The morning had been devoted to six potential for complementary medicine have trained in homeopathy. pre-congress workshops including in chronic disease in New Zealand; a one on recent developments in systematic review of the prevalence On reflection homeopathy and scientific research, of complementary medicine in the Other keynote sessions included which included a talk from Dr Robert European Union (which made health economics from James Raftery, Mathie, the British Homeopathic homeopathy one of the most popular Professor of Health Technology Assess- Association’s Research Development methods with usage rates ranging from ment at the University of Southampton; Adviser, on his sterling work reviewing 2–27%); a survey of CAM provision in and entertaining presentations from the randomised controlled trial Europe (which estimated that there are Professor Fabio Perazzo of the University literature in homeopathy. The other 45,000 medical and 5,800 non-medical of São Paulo, Brazil, on the medical workshops focussed on education, practitioners of homeopathy in Europe, potential of the rainforest and from health economics, safety issues in again among the most popular forms Professor Manjari Dwivedi of the CAM and paediatrics, anthroposophical of CAM); a survey of the use of CAM Hindu University of Varnasi in India, medicine and systematic review therapies in Germany which gave a on Ayurveda. On the social side, a methodology. 12-month usage rate for homeopathy of highlight was the eruption into the Following the opening session the 15–20% of the population; and a report congress dinner of opera singers

6 •• research

to London

disguised as waiters! Altogether this was a lively and exhilarating congress. From my perspective as an organiser, it was exhausting, constantly bordering on the chaotic, but for positive reasons: there was so much going on that it was hard to keep under control! The venue at times felt a bit like a multi-storey car park, but it is central and very functional. Above all it is very heartening to see that homeopathy is at the heart of complementary medicine and that we have many friends all around the world. We sometimes feel beleaguered in the UK but the international scene and the research prospects are bright. The abstracts of this congress are available online at: www.karger.com/ Article/Pdf/220059.

Dr Peter Fisher MA MB BChir FRCP FFHom* Co-chair, 2013 International Congress for Complementary Medicine Research Dr Peter Fisher

The International Society for Complementary Medicine Research The International Society for Complementary Medicine Centre, Berlin; Professor Torkel Falkenberg and Dr Joanna Research (ISCMR) is an international, professional, Hök of the Karolinska Institute, Stockholm; and Professor multidisciplinary, non-profit, scientific organisation dedicated Adi Haramati of Georgetown University, Washington DC. to fostering complementary and integrative medicine The congress enjoyed the support of a wide range of research and provides a platform for knowledge and external partners including NAFKAM and NICM, the national information exchange to enhance international complementary medicine research bodies of Norway and communication and collaboration. The International Australia respectively; KIOM, the Korea Institute of Oriental Congress for Complementary Medicine Research is an Medicine; the US Consortium of Academic Health Centres annual conference co-organised by ISCMR. for Integrative Medicine; Diabetes UK and the British This year’s congress in London was jointly organised Medical Acupuncture Society; and of course the Faculty by the School of Primary Care Research at the University of Homeopathy, among many others. of Southampton (Professor George Lewith) and the Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine (represented by the ISCMR rotates its conferences between Europe, North hospital’s senior research coordinator Dr John Hughes and America and Asia. ISCMR’s next conferences will be in Dr Peter Fisher). Other members of the committee were Miami, Florida in May 2014 and in South Korea in 2015: Professor Claudia Witt of the Charité University Medical www.iscmr.org/events

7 •• research

During the summer the Homeopathy Research Institute’s (HRI) inaugural International Research Conference HRI conference highlights took place in Barcelona. The theme of “Cutting Edge Research in Homeopathy” allowed for a diverse two and a half day growing interest in programme, featuring the latest findings from researchers worldwide. With a programme dedicated solely to high homeopathy research quality scientific research, this was the first gathering of its kind in a decade and after 18 months of preparation and Dr Alexander Tournier and Rachel Roberts report anticipation, the event did not disappoint. Delegates from around the world hailed the conference a huge success and a significant step forward for the and pharmacies), as well as students, field of homeopathy research, a senti - academics, researchers and various ment summed up by Dr Robert Mathie, homeopathic industries. research development adviser for the British Homeopathic Association. Basic science “The HRI conference brought While there were innumerable high e t

together a critical mass of research and u quality talks, some particularly captured t i t s

researchers that encapsulated the n the theme of “Cutting Edge Research I

h c

momentum and originality of current r in Homeopathy ”. Keynote speaker Dr a e

work and also the opportunities for s Stephan Baumgartner from the University e R

new developments in the field.” y of Bern in Switzerland summarised the h t a

p state of play and way forward for basic o A quality programme e research. This thought-provoking talk m o H

The primary goal for the conference set the scene perfectly for a session e h t was to gather together the best exploring possible mechanisms of f o

researchers in the world from as many y action of homeopathic medicines. s e t r

subfields of homeopathy as possible. u Professor Iris Bell from the University o c

To this end, a rigorous peer review and s of Arizona College of Medicine joined o t

selection process was implemented, o the conference live online from the US. h p

l involving experts within HRI’s Scientific l She shared her theory that nanoparticles A Advisory Committee, plus colleagues Dr Robert Mathie addresses the conference play a key role in the mechanism of from around the world. action – an appealing hypothesis as it However an event organised in the clinical researcher from Italy. “The level potentially brings homeopathy into the manner of an academic scientific of the presentations was very high. realms of conventional nanomedicine. confer ence was something new to Homeopathy is always considered the Dr Alexander Tournier presented an many members of the homeopathic Cinderella of CAM, from a scientific alternative theory based on quantum community. Alexander Tournier, HRI point of view, but it was not so in coherence domains, which he considers Chairman and Executive Director, Barcelona, the opposite in fact.” to be more consist ent with the observed explains: properties of homeopathic preparations. “Most talks being no longer than 15 Broad support minutes duration was a bit of a shock Support from the international homeo- Clinical research for some presenters used to the more pathic community was a key factor in Clinical studies testing homeopathic relaxed format of many homeopathy making the event such a success. And products for named conditions (e.g. teeth- conferences. If you’re used to speaking with 180 attendees from over 30 ing in children), were presented by several for an hour or more, it’s something of a countries, it was a truly global event. European research teams, as well as challenge to get your ideas across The opening ceremony included trials showing the effective ness of effectively in 15 minutes, especially presentations by local homeopath Dr individualised homeopathic prescribing when you’re dealing with complex Anna Pla (Research Coordinator for the for conditions such as PMS and ADHD. concepts such as proving theory or Medical Association of Barcelona Clinical research methods applied to fundamental research. It was great to Homeopathic Section and Member of homeopathy were critically evaluated see presenters who were new to this the European Council for Homeopathy ’s and the best ways forward for future style of event rising to the challenge Research subcommittee), as well as Dr studies were presented. Dr Robert and participants enjoying the intensity Josep Davins representing the Ministry Mathie discussed the importance of of the programme.” of Health, Cataluña. assessing model validity when determin- HRI’s approach of prioritising Representatives were present from ing the quality of a piece of research “quality rather than quantity” was across the profession including ECH i.e. how appropriate was the homeo - certainly well appreciated by attendees. (representing medical homeopaths), pathic treatment delivered within a “This conference – it was ECCH (representing non-medical research study? Alastair Gray discussed perfection,” said Dr Elio Rossi, homeopaths), ECHAMP (representing ways to ensure that future provings are prominent homeopathic physician and European homeopathic manufacturers carried out in accordance with modern

8 produced a clear trend of inhibiting amphibian metamorphosis in 22 experi - ments and that this effect was observed by seven independent researchers . Delegates also heard from Dr Yaccov Freed who reported his findings that Cocculus 30c improves the behavioural and hormonal changes caused by sleep deprivation in rats. While Professor Leoni Villano Bonamin revealed her fascinating results demonstrating that Thymulin 5CH can modulate the inflammatory response in mice.

Looking forward The outcomes from Barcelona have been excellent, with several new collaborat- ions in development both for the HRI and other teams around the world. Rachel Roberts, HRI Chief Executive, said: “The message coming through from attendees is that this was a much- needed event which happened at just the right time, providing a springboard scientific standards, without losing The important issue of antibiotic for renewed activity in the field. The valuable aspects of traditional proving ineffectiveness was discussed by Dr HRI has been overwhelmed by the method. Jeremy Sherr looked at how Peter Fisher, who demonstrated that with positive response to the conference provings can challenge the idea that sound homeopathic intervent ion a health and we look forward to doing it all over homeopathic medicines are simply and cost burden could be lifted from again in 2015 .” placebos. And Dr Lex Rutten presented the bottom line of healthcare budgets. A full conference report and all his work on the application of probabil - abstracts will be appearing in the January ities to homeopathic clinical work, an More from the laboratory edition of Homeopathy . To be notified interesting approach in an increasingly While homeopathy is practised and when the filmed presentations go live, “evidence based” medical environment. dispensed in surgeries and practices sign up to the HRI mailing list at www. Other sessions concentrated on the worldwide, one driving force of research homeoinst.org or follow HRI on Twitter. pragmatic realities of delivering homeo - remains in the laboratory. In this area pathy within public health systems and Dr Christian Endler announced the Dr Alexander Tournier and Rachel featured Dr Elizabeth Thompson results of an independent meta- Roberts, HRI Management Team presenting the results from the BISCUIT analysis of 20 years’ worth of work by study – an economic evaluation of the his team, testing homeopathic dilutions For more information about the Bristol Homeopathic Hospital – which on highland amphibians. This new study Homeopathy Research Institute visit suggests that the homeopathic packages has concluded that Thyroxine 30x www.homeoinst.org . of care provided by this hospital may have an impact on patients’ quality of life and wellbeing. This topic was also explored by Dr Elio Rossi who discussed findings from observational studies carried out at Lucca Hospital demonstrating positive clinical outcomes and cost benefits from integration of homeopathy within the public health system of Tuscany from 1998-2011. Dr Gustavo Bracho from the Finlay Institute in Cuba (the team behind the management of a Leptospirosis epidemic in Cuba using homeopathic medicines in 2007) proposed a scheme to integrate homeopathy in hospitals as a first line of defence against epidemics. He suggested that homeopathy could be used prophylactically to treat infected patients as they come into hospitals, thereby shortening their stay and the risks of further contamination. Rachel Roberts, HRI Chief Executive, in discussion with the Faculty’s Dr Liz Thompson

9 •• case study

Fearing insignificance and death

Following Jonathan Hardy’s butterfly case study in the April issue of simile , Dr Helen Beaumont presents another insect remedy.

Ladybird, ladybird fly away home, P h o

Your house in on fire and your t o :

L i s a

children are gone, S . / S h u t t All except one and that’s little Ann, e r s t o c k . c

For she crept under the frying pan. o m

Andrea was a 39-year-old lady who was was 21 and I don’t want that for my No one prepared me before – they very smartly dressed in a black skirt and children. were all laughing – no one told me it tights, with a red jumper and black shiny would be that bad. I needed oxygen boots. She talked very fast with great Describe the pain a little more. to help me to breathe. You have to run emphasis and it was a struggle to record A. As if someone is standing on my away or it will kill you. all the information. Over the last six to chest and stopping me from breathing. seven years she had had a lot of pain in I feel as if my hand would explode, the Explain about “Run away or it will her left arm and chest on exercise, and pressure normally starts in my fingers kill you”? an angiogram had shown micro vascular or starts in the chest and goes down A. If I had not got out of tunnel I think angina. She was given a GTN spray and the left arm. It is as if somebody had I would have stopped breathing. I feel told to go away. She had come for a belt and was squeezing the whole very desperate. I feel taken over and out homeo pathy as she felt things were of my chest and all down my arm, of control. It is an ache like someone deteriorating and did not know where squeezing air out of me. squeezing, as if squeezing something to turn. The breath is all squeezed out and through that does not want to go. then you die of a heart attack. I thought Tell me about the angina? I would die. Feeling dread all along, in What is the opposite of tight and A. It felt as if someone was tickling my the back of my mind. Is this how it will squeezing? chest; going cold and tickly and the GTN happen – the struggle for breath and A. No pain; normality; a feeling of spray did not work. I went into shock then the unpleasant death? nothing. I feel this is the enemy. This and thought this was it. Are they looking I feel as if I’m pinned down ; if I is the enemy – when will it leave me for lupus? I got into a real state and wanted to get up I couldn’t. It’s like being alone? thought: “Oh my God, I am going to in a tunnel, there is no getting away die! I have small children, who will look from it and I am out of control totally: Tell me more about the enemy? after them.” it feels like something out of a film. A. The unknown; the enemy coming to I was waking up with pain in my During the PET ( Positron Emission kill me; I need to run away from it. It is arm, the pain comes from my neck into Tomography) scan they all had white all about the food chain – I’m part of the shoulder and down into my hands, coats on, like an experiment: all for the the food chain. I am so insignificant; then my hands go blotchy with tiny research, not for me. I was their victim, one of one hundred thousand million. purple veins. It is as if there are little their guinea pig. I felt tricked. Like out I will not make any difference. It is all burns all over my hands – burns all over of a sci-fi movie – a big lab to one part of nothingness and out of my my rib cage as if someone had burnt side. When the dyestuff came it hit control. I could not control what me. I am scared – scared I am going to me, like knocked me back and I could happened to my mum. It comes down die. I’m scared as my mum died when I not get up. to my belief system that we will be

10 away. It does not know what is there, what is around the corner. This is what I am doing with this. It will not happen prematurely; I am trying to hedge bets so I can foresee problems before it gets worse. A ladybird would not put itself out there. They get caught because they don’t know about the predators – no one told them. They are innocent just going about their business, but if they knew they would not do it.

What are you passionate about? A. Black and red clothes – they are the only ones I wear, and it drives my husband mad. I love my children but I don’t have energy for them – my mind is too busy these days. I loved exercise but can’t do that any more; it used to sort me out mentally.

What are your fears? A. I will not get sorted on a time line. I am waiting any day now for something to happen. I still feel shocked. I feel I have to plan everything.

Tell me about your dreams? A. Dropping down, falling off a cliff and I could not stop, so I wake up frightened. gobbled up. Why am I so frightened? they are all so insignificant; all die The weird thing was I could not wake up, It will be me next and why should it anyway – no point. I was fighting to wake up but couldn’t. not be me? Will I be alive? I can’t live like this any I am trying to inside myself but my more. The butterfly is so insignificant, it eyes would not open. I looked dead Tell me more about “gobble up”? is just taken away in one go. Like with but I was alive inside and wanting to A. It’s something greater and more me. So many doctors: no one is given bounce out. If you were buried alive powerful than me. I’m not very power - an opportunity to talk, to say anything. you could not get out, you are trapped. ful. I’m not bright. I have had to struggle The ladybird is more insignificant. It would be a slow painful death. by, had to struggle to achieve. You don’t see them any more. Everyone They do that, don’t they? Ladybirds likes to look at a butterfly, but is it so have an egg, then a cocoon like Say a little more about “gobble up”? much harder for the ladybird. I have butterflies do? A. Powerful – it would be huge! I would seen what my kids do –people stand on be absolutely nothing. I would just them. They can fly – now that would be What is the experience to bounce out? disappear – that would be IT! so lovely. There would be liberating A. It is good to come out, bounce out; freedom. It is so nice to have transition, there is freedom, relief, reassuring, What would the experience be to to uproot whenever you want to. peaceful. All I want is inner peace, trying disappear? to seek inner peace. I have to deal with A. Black, very lonely, very frightened! Tell me about uproot? it in a peaceful way or I’m no good to To go on for ever, no reprieve from it A. I feel tied with job, tied to his [her anybody. all, go on and on and on and on and on husband] job, tied to all this … trappings. This is bigger than me. I am not in and on. A huge thing, a galaxy out of I do not buy into this, although I used to control at all. I loved travelling, but space, gobble up this little thing that is buy into it. He is focused on work, work trapped now I can’t travel. I always so insignificant. and work. This does not do it for me, travelled … just pick up and go You are breathing and alive, that I just feel trapped. What if something whenever I wanted. is the only way to be effective or you happens to me? Who would look have no effect on people around you. after the children? He would not give Analysis If you are still breathing you can be up his job. This patient was part of the animal effective. king dom with her issues of survival, You are so small you could Tell me more about the ladybird? the enemy and being part of the food be any animal, like a ladybird or a A. A ladybird is so insignificant. A little chain. The sub-kingdom was defined butterfly, but then you are nice to the child might play with it; a novelty for as insect; she talked about transform - eye – nice to a spider. The butterfly has a while, then dismiss it to one side. ation from egg to cocoon and then a nice life. It tries to do its best but A ladybird would stay in a bush, hiding delight of flying.

11 •• case study

Insects • Small with a short life span • Organised and Busy • Industrious – will not survive if not doing something Suddenness; Restless Hyperactive • a i d

• Constant intense activity with a e m i k

constant need for change i W

/

• Intense pace and speed i k s l

• Territory is defined and that is u d o invade d/encroache d/intruded t S

k • Entire focus is very basic, food, i n i

reproduction and sexuality m o D

• Shameless, destructive, rush of : o t o

thoughts, thoughts wandering h • Colours especially very bright P Coccinella septempunctata • Sensations – burning, heat, stinging, biting, stitching, shifting Coccinella New proving done Ladybird – septempunctata in Bulgaria Coleoptera family So what insect? It was important to study both butterfly and ladybird as the Physical symptoms Accidents Sheathed wings patient had mentioned them spontan - known for long time, eously when talking “source” language. affinities; teeth Though it is too simplistic and naive to prescribe Coccinella on the grounds of Throbbing neuralgia of Natural disasters Hardened covers that red and black clothes, repertory study teeth sheath the wings of Coccinella and the recent Bulgarian Tooth ache with vertigo Floods Beetle features include: proving of the remedy provided more and fainting information and I prescribed Coccinella septempunctata 1M, a single dose. Pain spread across face Earthquakes Fragile, hard sheath, shield, shell hardened, Materia medica see chart, right. protection, hiding, retracting, hibernating, Follow-up isolation When reviewed a month later she had made progress; she was much calmer Pain in repeated short House being demolished Metamorphosis and less stressed about her symptoms. attacks She had not used her GTN spray after the Sensation as if teeth Concern for children and Moulting first three days of treat ment and had hollow, coldness in teeth animals gradually been able to attend the gym, or as if would be torn using the treadmill slowly but without out with a hook pain and tightness. She was still worried that she might have lupus and that “the Hydrophobia, < bright Homeless, Layers falling off doctors must have missed something”. object dispossessed, gypsies Coccinella septemp unctata 1M was repeated in a single dose as the under ly - Neuralgia < night Desire to help people Coats slipping off ing fear and sensation was still presen t despite improving physical symptoms. Prostration Care for others Complete change A review eight weeks later showed Cold sensation in mouth, Desire to be helped further improvement, with the patient teeth, icy cold limbs and reporting she had experienced no more cold moist skin angina. The burning and prickling sensation in her left hand and fingers Sensation of sharp People should care was absent and exercise tolerance had splinters in fingertips for her increased. Her general energy and sleep were good and she was wearing brown Make life easier for her trousers a green top and low shoes! I have continued to see this patient Haughty on average about once a year. She has occasionally felt the symptoms might be Can have high self- esteem and confidence returning but they settle within three days of a single dose of the remedy. Desire to be beautiful and buy clothes – high Dr Helen Beaumont heeled boots MBChB MRCGP DRCOG FFHom*

12 •• feature

representatives. For those who travel distances to attend the meetings, expenses are reimbursed by the Faculty.

Representing you Regional representatives are elected by the members from each region, whereas the professional group representatives are elected by the Faculty membership of that particular profession. In the absence of any proposals members can self-nominate themselves for consider - ation. In order to qualify for professional group representation there must be a minimum of 30 Faculty associates and members from that profession. Appoint- ments are usually for a three-year term, with the option of continuing, if appro- priate. The committee has its own defined Terms of Reference and Areas of Activity and these documents are available on request. A full list of representatives is shown below. The regional representatives maintain and develop the structure of local group networks, arrange educational meetings within the region and act as the main point of contact for members within the area. So, if you have any ideas for events or courses in your area – please

P get in touch! Perhaps you have h o t

o encountered problems or difficulties :

K

o and have not shared these with your n s t

a representative – once again, please get n t i n in touch! Or maybe you have grown

C h

a weary and disillusioned and aren’t sure g i n how to tackle a problem or even what /

S h

Working together u to do with your qualification – please t t e

r get in touch! No matter what the issue s t o

c – please get in touch with your k . c

to make things better o representative! m Do you have a burning issue that you would like raised? Have you got a Dr Gary Smyth is the Northern Ireland branch great idea that no one else has thought representative on the Faculty’s Members’ Committee. of? Are you frustrated at the changes (or lack of changes) within homeopathy In this article he discusses the work of the committee or within the NHS and healthcare and its important role within the Faculty. generally? If so, please get in touch – as we would love to hear from you. The Members’ Committee represents meetings by the Faculty’s Membership members’ views and concerns, and acts Officer, Tracey Simmons, and Committee business as the main link between the Faculty occasionally by the Faculty President Committee members elect a convener Council and the wider membership. and Chief Executive. who sits on the Faculty Council to It is one of five standing committees Face-to-face meetings take place represent members’ views; currently this within the Faculty (the other four twice a year – usually in the spring and role is performed by Dr Patricia Ridsdale. comprising Faculty Council, Academic autumn – and generally in London, Through this representation the views, Board, Promotions Network and the although recently we have used the aspirations and concerns raised at meet- Disciplinary Committee). facilities at the Faculty’s offices in Luton. ings are shared with council members. The committee is made up of We also have a third meeting in the The convener’s position on the Faculty representatives from 15 regions of the summer which takes the form of an Council serves to create a two-way flow UK plus the Republic of Ireland, along e-meeting. This regular contact strikes of information, for not only are the views with representatives from the medical, a balance between having sufficiently from the wider membership discussed dental, pharmacy, veterinary, nursing regular meetings to enable continuation but the council’s position on specific and podiatry professions. These 22 of threads of discussion, without gener- issues, its priorities and future strategy representatives are joined at committee ating an onerous commitment on the can be reported back to the Membership

13 •• feature

Committee, allowi ng the representatives pathy.org or call 01582 408681. Any personally, this is exactly how I first to brief members via their local groups Licensed Associate, Diplomate or became involved with the Members’ and professional networks. Member of the Faculty can become a Committee several years ago. At committee meetings each regional representative, with the only other representative presents an update on requirements being an interest in A fantastic forum the activities of their local group or representing fellow members, along The members are the Faculty, and the Faculty branch. Similarly, each of the with an awareness of the current issues Members’ Committee is a vital and professional group representatives useful link between grass roots bring to the committee matters arising members and those serving on the from within their respective professional Faculty Council. It offers a fantastic group. A wide variety of important issues forum for discuss ing all manner of are discussed ranging from grassroots topics relating to homeopathy and is a feedback, through to aspects affecting great opportunity to get involved with a members nationally and internationally. community of professionals who all Topics range from the concerns of share the same passion for this individual members to new initiatives particular form of medicine. and developments within the homeo - Since becoming Northern Ireland’s pathic community. Some recent branch representative, I firmly believe discussions have included membership that the work of the Members’ fees, the ongoing challenge of recruit - Committee has focussed my thoughts ment and retention of members, in relation to homeopathy. Furthermore, promotion of homeopathy among fellow I’ve enjoyed every moment of working professionals, education and CPD, with colleagues from across the UK and revalidation and appraisal, research and across the various professions, and evidence, plus the use of social media I would heartily recommend getting and online communications. Dr Gary Smyth involved with the Members’ Committee. Finally, if you are curious about how Playing your part facing the Faculty and its membership, the Members’ Committee works and You will see from the list of represent - and the desire to become part of an would like to attend a meeting as an atives that there are several vacancies energetic and vibrant committee. observer, this can be arranged by prior on the committee – namely for Scotland Representatives must be able to request – just get in contact with Tracey South East, Scotland Central, East attend committee meetings, although Simmons (details above). There really is Anglia, the Manchester Area and South unforeseen circumstances can develop no excuse for not being involved! Wales, as well for the medical and and on occasions this may not be podiatry professions. These five regions possible. In these circumstances the “When you do nothing you feel over - and two professions comprise a representative should appoint a deputy whelmed and powerless. But when significant number of members who are to attend the meeting on their behalf. you get involved you feel the sense of at present not being represented on the This can be a great opportunity to get hope and accomplishment that comes committee. Therefore, if you are in any involved and I would encourage anyone from knowing you are working to of these regions or from these profess - who is interested in doing this to let their make things better.” Maya Angelou ions and are interested in getting involved representative know – I’m sure they will with the Faculty, please contact Tracey be delighted to know there is someo ne Dr Gary Smyth MB CHB DGM DMH Simmons at tsimmons@facultyofhomeo who can help them out. Indeed, speaking DRCOG DFSRH MRCGP MFHom

Members’ Committee – regional and professional representatives Scotland North Ms Catherine Tiphanie England South Dr Patricia Ridsdale [email protected] and Central [email protected] Scotland Central [vacant] and Dr Jenifer Worden [email protected] Scotland South East [vacant] England South East Dr Andrew Sikorsk i Scotland South West Dr Moira McGuigan [email protected] [email protected] England South West Mrs Elizabeth Baines Northern Ireland Dr Gary Smyth [email protected] [email protected] East Anglia [vacant] Republic of Ireland Mr Michael Clancy [email protected] Doctors [vacant] England North East Dr Margaret Reid Dentists Mr Brian Teall and International [email protected] [email protected] Manchester area Dr Sue de Lacy Pharmacists Miss Evelyn Liddell [email protected] [email protected] South Wales [vacant] Vets Mrs Anne O’Reilly Midlands Dr Bishan Chohan [email protected] [email protected] Nurses and Midwives Ms Karen Hooton London area Dr Ralf Schmalhors t [email protected] [email protected] Podiatrists [vacant]

14 •• case study P h o t o :

G the first time in ages. I went into a b r i hospital to have my polyps removed and e l a

S they said that the polyps have c h

a disappeared, so they sent me home. u f e It is like a miracle. l b e r g e r I advised her to stop using Beconase / i s t o c k Case taking p Consultation – December 1993 h o t o with Dr Raymond Sevar M: My asthma was better so I stopped the inhalers for two weeks and the M is a 57-year-old lady with grey hair and blue eyes. She is suffering from asthma, asthma has returned. My skin is even eczema, perennial rhinitis and psoriasis. She has an open straightforward manner. worse. It is so very itchy all the time and I scratch until it is raw and bruised. Consultation – June 1993 cheeks and falling off her chin. She just I have more patches on my body and M: I have nasal polyps and am waiting lets the tears run and makes no attempt bottom and thighs. for an operation to remove them. I have to suppress the tears or wipe them off hay fever all year round and asthma and her face until she has finished crying. I prescribe Pulsatilla LM1 30ml, 10 three different kinds of skin rashes. Since succussions and two drops daily in May my nose has been completely M: I cry easily, I always have and I feel water. blocked. I have polyps both sides of my better after having a good cry. I am very nose. I cough and wheeze with the emotional and get upset easily. I cry if Consultation – January 1994 yellow phlegm and it wakes me up people are kind to me. I feel a lot better M: My skin is better. The improvement through the night, at 2 or 4 or 6 a.m. I am if my husband hugs and comforts me. began after a few days. My skin has much better outside in the open air and I love pasta, but my real favourite is gradually got better first in my body, worse in the house. desserts especially meringue with fresh then my arms. My thighs are clearing The eczema has been bad for the fruit. I hate fat on meat and hot spicy and my lower legs are getting better – past two years on my legs. I use things. I am terrified of closed in small they are less red, less scaly, but still itchy. Dermovate. Then I have a rash like places – I can’t breathe and panic. The asthma is better. I have stopped lumps, like insect bites. They itch like the inhalers apart from a very occasional mad and are worse in heat, especially Analysis and prescription dose. I am not wheezing and have very getting hot in bed. This rash comes on The whole energy of the case, the little cough. My nose is fine, but I still when my nose is badly blocked. I also language and symptoms point strongly have no sense of smell. have a bit of psoriasis on my elbows to Pulsatilla which I prescribe as one and knees and scalp. dose of 200C I recommend she continue with the When I was five I had whooping Pulsatilla LM1 daily. cough, chicken pox and then measles, Consultation – September 1993 all one after the other. My father died of M: Nothing has changed. Now I am on Telephone consultation – February 1994 prostate cancer and my mother died of Ventolin and Becotide inhalers and The eczema rash is clearing slowly, now a stroke. I am an only child. I have had Beconase nose spray, but I have it is only on my lower legs – the patches three children with no problems. I had stopped the Dermovate so my skin is are smaller, the itch is less and I have no the menopause OK. I love gardening much worse. new patches. The rash-like bites are and painting. almost gone. The psoriasis is almost I am always warm and get terrible if it Analysis and prescription gone. I am taking Becotide inhaler now is too hot – I get tired and such a terrible I am surprised that Pulsatilla has had no and again because my GP insisted, but headache. I avoid hot countries because effect and realise that this is the first it seems to make me gasp immediately I just faint. I avoid the sun – I must sit in time I have truly seen an obstacle to after I take it and for a few minutes the shade – and have never been able cure and prescribe Mutabile 30C, three afterwards. to sunbathe. I am so much better doses, 12 hours apart. moving about outside in the fresh air I advise her only to take inhalers for Last year I had some terrible worry. Telephone consultation – three wheezing when she actually needs to My son-in-law kidnapped my grandson. weeks later and to continue Pulsatilla LM1 three He and my daughter were having M: Three days after the Mutabile the days a week until she forgets or is trouble and getting divorced. skin on my legs got much worse; my symptom free. energy went up a lot; my asthma Observation: she begins to weep openly. improved; and my nose got better – less Dr Raymond Sevar Great big tears are rolling down her blocked – and then my nose cleared for BSc MBChB DCH MRCGP FFHom*

15 •• case study

Feelings of “ugliness ” – more than skin deep

In 2008, Dr Renuka Kshirsagar trained in homeopathy at the Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine and today has a private practice in Mumbai. m o c .

Writing for simile for the first k c o t s r e

time, Dr Kshirsagar recounts t t u h S / i

one of her early cases that left l l e b o r

a lasting impression on her. t e P

e l e i n a D

: o t o h P

Mrs P, an elderly, thin lady of 70, walked were comparatively better with a few feeling, which is when she reluctantly into the clinic complaining of skin psoriatic patches, but her nails were started talking about how much it eruptions, predominantly on her feet. pitted and had black pigmentation. upset her that her sons chose to stay The eruptions had started almost a year She was a retired school teacher and away from her, and in a different back with very tiny spots on her palms both her sons lived abroad with their country at that. and soles of the feet, which a homeo - families – something she was not too “I’m a teacher. I teach little children pathic doctor she visited had diagnosed comfortable talking about. Like a lot of about values and the importance of as Palmoplantar psoriasis. middle class Indian patients, it was very taking care of parents in their old age “I didn’t agree with the doctor,” she difficult to elicit her mental history in the and yet here I am! I do not wish to said. “I felt that I knew how ugly psoriasis beginning and she was decidedly closed burden my sons by saying this to them looks and my eruptions looked nothing on talking about anything on her personal directly and would hate for them to do like that … so I did not take medicines front. I made a mental note to revisit it anything out of pity for me. Besides, then and chose to ignore my symptoms .” later but did not pursue it at the time. I’m sure they know how I feel and yet However, within a month the choose to do as it pleases them. I have itching had increased considerably Distant sons no other complaints of them, they are and she went to a skin specialist who I decided to speak to her more about perfectly good sons but at this age I confirmed it to be psoriasis and her presenting symptoms. She had made would have loved to have them and my prescribed her the routine steroid it very clear that besides being very grandkids more accessible.” ointments. As was expected, her skin itchy and painful, the eruptions made On further questioning it turned out became absolutely normal within a her feel “ugly”. Though she had never that her symptoms had first appeared month. But this improvement lasted been able to tolerate heat, surprisingly around the time her second son decided for only three months; then all the her eruptions felt better after a warm to settle abroad. eruptions came back with a vengeance. bath or when covered. There was a The rest of her medical history was When I saw her, almost five constant urge to scratch but scratching fairly unremarkable and not particularly months after the recurrence of her caused bleeding and increased discharge. helpful, except for a past history of eruptions, the soles of her feet were On direct questioning she mentioned migraines which had reduced completely covered with thick black an unquenchable thirst but no particular substantially without any treatment. eruptions about 3-5mm in thickness, with food likes or dislikes. When I asked her lots of cracks and a serous discharge. if she felt hurt easily or wept easily she Treatment and follow-up She was very uncomfortable even show - was quick to reply: “What is there to I do not always repertorise for each and ing it to me and kept saying “how ugly feel bad about? Everyone anyway does every case but depend more on the it made her feel”, and tried hard to hold what suits them.” typology and a combination of mental, back tears as she spoke. The palms I asked her to elaborate on this physical and general symptoms.

16 The most important features in this The patient was also pleased and surge in confidence and a feeling of joy. patient were: confessed how she didn’t really expect She had also planned to visit her sons • thin, emaciated lady homeopathy to work and she had tried abroad and was overjoyed by this. • lot of repressed grief, associated it only on someone’s persistence. “I feel Over the next two months her feet with her children like some load has come off me … became absolutely normal with no • feelings of disappointment I cannot describe the feeling any better,” eruptions at all. • not comfortable talking about her she said. “I have been so worried about It has been over three years since feelings this skin appearance but it seems I first saw her and her feet have • past history of migraines hopeful now.” remained unaffected in this period. • psoriasis started after sons moved When I saw her again two weeks Every time her sons left after a visit, away later there was no difference and I there was an appearance of small • thick, crusty, black, discharging repeated Natrum mur 1 M and arranged eruptions on the palms of her hands eruptions, worse for scratching to see her again after a month. which would disappear with a single and better for warmth When I saw her for the fourth time dose of Natrum mur 1M. In the last her feet were almost 80 per cent better. year, however, she has not needed Based only on her skin eruptions, Arsen- There was no recurrence of patches on another dose and she continues to be icum album seemed to be the best her palms. The patient spoke of a great asymptomatic. choice, but in this case I felt that her symptoms were a direct outcome of her mental state and chose to focus more on her mental picture which brought out Natrum muriaticum very prominently (see the chart below). I prescribed Natrum mur 1M, as a single dose constitutional remedy and called her back in two weeks.

The second visit P h

At her second visit, Mrs P walked in with o t o :

a big smile and I was shocked to see V i t that her skin had improved by almost K o v

30 per cent. The thickness of the a l c i eruptions had reduced, the small patches k / S h

on the palms were completely gone and u t t e

the itching had substantially reduced. r s t o

I was surprised to see such a drastic c k . c

difference in just two weeks, especially o since Kent talks of how Natrum m muriaticum is known to act slowly. Natricum muriaticum

Conclusion Mind Extremities Generals Skin – eruptions I saw this case in my early days of Ailments from – Chapped – hands – Emaciation – Discharging – thin practice and it taught me a lot. Whenever anger – silent grief; fingers extending to – the correct similimum is found it works with downward almost “magically” and very quickly. I can only assume, but I feel that even Ailments from – Discolouration – Crusty – thick Arsenicum album would have helped rudeness of others fingers – nails – the patient to an extent, although it black – around would probably be a slow response Delusions – Crusty – painful and maybe not so complete. wretched; she looks It is not always easy to elicit a relevant mental history but I feel that Weeping – pitied, if Crusty – horny nowhere is it as important as it is in skin he/she believes conditions. As I saw later, every case of he/she is eczema, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis etc, Crusty – bleeding almost invariably has a deep root in the patient’s mental picture. Medicine Crusty – black cannot change what a person chooses to feel bad about, but it can definitely Cold agg.; becoming help them to cope better with it in that at least the pain/grief/hurt does not transfer Chronic to the body in the form of disease. Bleeding – scratching; after Dr Renuka Kshirsagar MBBS MFHom

17 •• events

•• examinations calendar 2014

EXAM EXAM DATE VENUE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS

PRIMARY HEALTH CARE EXAM PHCE 6 June 2014 Bristol 4 April 2014

MEMBERSHIP EXAM – OPEN TO NURSES AND DOCTORS WHO HAVE PASSED THE PHCE MFHom / MFHom (Nurse) TBA TBA 11 April 2014 MFHom / MFHom (Nurse) TBA TBA 19 September 2014

SPECIALIST REGISTRATION – OPEN TO DOCTORS WHO HAVE GAINED THE MFHom Assessment 10 March 2014 Luton 16 January 2014 Assessment 17 March 2014 Glasgow 13 January 2014 Assessment 10 October 2014 Glasgow 8 August 2014 Assessment 16 October 2014 Luton 15 August 2014

VETERINARY LICENTIATE EXAM LFHom (Vet) 6 June 2014 Bristol 4 April 2014

VETERINARY MEMBERSHIP EXAM VetMFHom TBA Oxon 31 January 2014

Other exams not currently noted on the calendar will be arranged as required.

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.

n Guidance for promoting your website n Peer appraisal forms and information n Congress presentations for review n 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 • Venue: The Unitarian Cross Street Chapel Regular meetings Cross Street, Manchester M2 1NL W Surrey & W Sussex Homeopathic Group • For more information or to book a place, please contact: Dr Eftihia Metallidou on 15/10/2013 and 19/11/2013 – Event Time: 20:00 until 22:00 0161 4747301 weekdays 12-4.00pm or Members include doctors, vets, dentists and pharmacists. The aim of the group is to act email at: [email protected] as a forum for ongoing learning and support, covering all aspects of homeopathy and medical practice. International Conference and Exhibition The Punch Bowl, Oakwood Hill, nr Ockley, Surrey RH5 5PU. on Traditional & Alternative Medicine • Charles Forsyth on 01737 226338 (office), 01737 248605 (home), 07802 293006 (mobile) Event Date: 09/11/2013 – 11/11/2013 or [email protected] Traditional Medicine-2013 Through the theme, Traditional Medicine: Promotion & Leeds Homeopathic Group Development, Traditional Medicine-2013 is Regular meetings in the Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Adel, north Leeds. planned to bring together practitioners in herbal, Jutta Prekow on 0113 203 7329 or at [email protected] Ayurvedic, homeopathy and various practices of • CAM fraternity to showcase the importance Manchester-Liverpool Homeopathic Group of traditional and alternative medicine. Meetings for discussing homeopathic cases and other matters relevant to homeopathy. • Venue: Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Hyderabad Open to doctors, vets, nurses, pharmacists of all levels. Banjara Hills, 8-2-409 Rd No. 6 Banjara Hills Location varies, so contact in advance for details: Hyderabad 500034 India For further details, visit: www.omicsgroup. Dr Eftihia Metallidou on 0161 4747301 weekdays 12-4.00pm or email: [email protected] • • com/conferences/traditional-medicine-2013/ cfa.php

Complementary therapies in dental Canadian Homeopathic Conference 2013 Northern Ireland Homeopathic Group practice Dynamic Harmony (3rd annual event) Date: 13 November 2013 at 7.45pm Event Date: 04/10/2013 Event Date: 18-20 October 2013 The Role of Homeopathy in Dentistry What does the future hold? (B Teall, P Wander, • Venue: Crowne Plaza Toronto Airport Hotel, P Darby), Practical uses of cellular medicine Toronto, Canada Speaker: Anne Gooding, MFHom (Dent) in general health and dentistry (R Wilson), • For more information visit Open to all Faculty affiliated healthcare Basic Homeopathy for beginners (K www.chconference.ca professionals, regardless of experience. Hajikakou) , Classic Homeopathy (S Farrer), • Venue: Toome House, 55 Main Street, Experiences in Holistic Dental Practice Treating Children with ADHD and Other Toomebridge, County Antrim, BT41 3TE (D Sutcliffe), Acupuncture (T Thayer), Behavioural Disorders. • For more information please contact: Hypnosis (V Walters), Traditional Chinese Date: 19 October 2013. 10.00am-4.30pm. Dr Gary Smyth, E-Mail: drgaryjsmyth@ Medicine for dentists and their patients (L Hua) Master class with Philippa Fibert (research gmail.com, tel: 07712 188165 Cost £95 Hygienist / £125 Dentist consultant, Society of Homeopaths) • Venue: British Orthodontic Society This master class will offer an overview of 12 Bridewell Place, London EC4V 6AP the current literature on this subject; Northern Ireland Homeopathic Group • Reservations and information: description of cases; and a discussion of Date: 12 February 2014 at 7.45pm [email protected] emerging treatment protocols. The Role of Homeopathy in Podiatry CPD 4hrs 50 min. This event suits all levels Speaker: Elaine McLaughlin, LFHom (Pod) Gradually Evolving Mastering Sessions of experience including students. (GEMS) Cost £65. Number of places is limited, please Open to all Faculty affiliated healthcare Date: 11 October 2013. 9.15am-4.30pm. book by 1 October. professionals, regardless of experience. The Acids – Remedies for Exhaustion and • Venue: Penny Brohn Cancer Centre • Venue: Toome House, 55 Main Street, Depletion. We will be looking at the Acids, in Pill, Nr Bristol. Toomebridge, County Antrim, BT41 3TE both organic and inorganic. All teaching will be • For further information call 0117 342 9830 • For more information please contact: supported by study of cured cases. With Julie or email [email protected] Dr Gary Smyth, E-Mail: drgaryjsmyth@ Geraghty, Geoff Johnson and Liz Thompson. gmail.com, Tel: 07712 188165 These CPD study days are open to fully Gifts of the Mother: the matridonal qualified practitioners registered with the remedies Society of Homeopaths or the Faculty of Event Date: 19/10/2013. 9:30am - 5:00pm 69th Congress of Liga Medicorum Homeopathy. Speaker: Dr Jonathan Hardy Homoeopathic Internationalis Cost £75 (lunch and refreshments included) The seminar will study the themes of the Event Date: 16-19/07/2014 Number of places is limited, please book by matridonal group, the provings of the individual remedies and will feature a number Homeopathy on the move: strategies, 1 October. healing, simillimum, simile. • Venue: Penny Brohn Cancer Centre of cured cases on video. in Pill, Nr Bristol. The seminar is open to medical and non- • Venue: Palais des Congres – Paris, France. • For further information, please email medical homeopaths of all levels. 6 CPD • For more information visit: [email protected] hours. Price: £60.00 (refreshments included) www.lmhi2014.org Viewpoint Free listings Have something to say? If you are organising Want to get something off your chest? an event and would like Share your views with Faculty members it to be included in future listings, through simile’s Viewpoint feature. please contact Contact John Burry on 01582 408682 or email John Burry at [email protected] [email protected]

19 •• contacts

Who to contact at the Faculty

•• staff

l Cristal Sumner – Chief Executive: l Lilia Russell – Executive Assistant to Chief [email protected] Executive: 01582 408674 [email protected] 01582 408676

l John Burry – Communications Officer: [email protected] l Mohammed Saqib Ali – Digital Marketing Officer: 01582 408682 [email protected] 01582 408680

Robert Mathie – Research Development Adviser: l l Education: [email protected] [email protected] 01582 408683 01582 408680

l Nilesh Mulji – Financial Controller (part-time): [email protected] Faculty of Homeopathy 01582 408678 Hahnemann House, 29 Park Street West Luton LU1 3BE

l Tracey Rignall – Membership Officer: Tel: 01582 408680 • Fax: 01582 723032 Email: [email protected] trignall @facultyofhomeopathy.org www.facultyofhomeopathy.org 01582 408681

•• faculty council

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

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

Helmut Roniger, NHS Secondary Care l Christopher Day, Veterinary Dean: l [email protected] Representative: [email protected]

Patricia Donnachie, Nursing Dean: l John Saxton, Immediate Past-President: [email protected] l [email protected]

Jonathan Hardy, Independent Practice l l Ralf Schmalhorst, NHS Primary Care Representative: Representative: [email protected] [email protected]

l Lee Kayne, Pharmacy Dean: l Jane Greenwood, Promotions Convener: [email protected] [email protected]

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

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