smleThe Faculty of Homeopathy Newsletter July 2008 Homeopathy – 60 years in the NHS In July, homeopathy celebrated its 60th elsewhere in the NHS. Yet despite year in the National Health Service. The assurances from governments and only complementary therapy to have excellent patient outcomes, NHS been included in the NHS at its homeopathy has had to weather a fair inception in 1948, it has remained as few storms. The fight at the moment popular as ever with patients. seems to be centred on Tunbridge Aneurin Bevan himself gave a Wells (see p3). personal assurance on the future of What does the future hold for homeopathy in the NHS: homeopathy in the NHS? Lord Darzi’s “Obviously if they (the homeopathic review of the health service published hospitals) are brought into the scheme this month is encouraging. Darzi has it must be regarded as a principle of proposed an NHS constitution which fundamental importance that their will include a ‘right to choice’ where special sectarian and individual character patients would have the right to choose must be preserved… it must be the their treatment and its providers. There obligation of the Regional Boards in seems to be a definite shift away from establishing their Management address published in the October 1948 the ‘target’ culture. Most significantly committee to see that these Manage- issue shows: perhaps, under Darzi’s plans, measures ment Committees are of a character “…this is the last session in which of effectiveness would include patients’ which maintains the continuity of the we will be meeting as free agents to own views on the success of their characteristics of those Institutions. do what we like… in a very few days treatment and the quality of their I think that I can give that absolute the majority of the profession will experiences. The next stage of his guarantee because otherwise it would come under the rules and regulations review will see the development and be an emotional mutilation which of the National Health Service Act. It is publication of patient reported outcome nobody could possibly defend.” of no use going back and having a post- measures, or PROMs, where patients’ At the beginning, many homeopathic mortem or trying to discuss what might opinions are sought before and after doctors were sceptical about the NHS have been…. But the Minister has treatment – something the homeo- and homeopathy’s future within it. Past recognized the Homeopathic Hospital pathic hospitals have been doing for issues of the British Homeopathic (London), has given it the status of a some time. The results of the Faculty’s Journal show a level of uneasiness – as group, with its own Board of Manage- own recent work in this area are this excerpt from a Faculty meeting ment, and that is a very great step…”. summarized on page 2. One contributor to the discussion In a recent issue of the BMJ, the worried that doctors would become NHS’s Medical Director Sir Bruce “mere tools of the administrators” and Keogh commented: “There has been a this “boded ill for the future”. Some in lot of talk for a long time about quality, the medical profession were very and now we need to move forward strongly opposed to the idea, and the quite quickly in trying to measure British Medical Association (BMA) clinical outcomes… I am keen to send continued to withhold its support just a very clear message to the service months before the NHS Act of 1946 that there is no going back on this. It is came into force, because of wrangles crazy that we are 60 years into the over responsibilities and pay. NHS and measuring outcomes on only In spite of initial misgivings from a handful of things.” Keogh has started IN THIS ISSUE: some quarters the NHS opened up discussions within the health homeopathy – a therapy so often department on a research programme News 1-6 thought of as the ‘rich man’s medicine’ that could see new patient reported Comment 7 – to the whole population. Results measures developed. International focus 8-9 published over the years have justified The importance of this shift in focus, Research update 10 homeopathy’s place in the health towards reporting how the patient feels Case studies 12-15 service, with on average 70% of follow- after treatment, is a big step in the Events 16-19 up patients reporting that they feel right direction and affords considerable better, results that are hard to find opportunities for homeopathy. •• editorial

the Society of Homeopaths have an recently. In his role as President, important part to play too. We do have Dickson Mabon, whose death is also problems – no one can deny – with a announced in this issue used to run “ well orchestrated campaign aimed at Faculty Council Meetings like a rubbishing homeopathy and Bob Parliamentary Select Committee. I was This issue we celebrate the 60th Leckridge gives some examples in his always afraid to speak – not a trait with anniversary of the National Health piece (p4) – but we have the practical which I am usually identified! Service – and of course with it 60 years experience that patients do respond Mention of ABRHP reminds me to of the availability of homeopathy in the positively, and ultimately that is the congratulate Tom Whitmarsh, Patricia NHS. Quite an achievement when one most important outcome. So while we Donnachie and Michel Erlewyn- considers the huge change in look back on the past 60 years with Lajeunresse on their appointment to circumstances that has taken place pride, let us use this anniversary as a the Board; I wish them well. I have since 1948. Although much tinkering springboard for renewed efforts to retired from the Board having served has taken place with the service it still keep homeopathy in the NHS for the since it was formed in 1994 – and what sets out to achieve essentially the next 60 years. This would be a legacy progress I have seen in those 14 years. same goals. And as for homeopathy? of which we would all be proud. Initially the Medicines Control Agency ‘Good but could do better’ might be the Older colleagues will remember (as the MHRA was then called) had appropriate school report. that ITMA stands for It’s that Man what might be termed a punitive ‘Availability’ of homeopathy should Again. Boots, the high street chemist, culture. Now the infrastructure for not be equated with ‘delivery’ for is becoming the country’s largest seller registering homeopathic products is despite statements from successive of quack medicine, according to Edzard well established, we have new national governments that they wish to expand Ernst. Speaking at the Hay literary rules allowing limited claims of access to medical services for patients, festival he criticised the company for effectiveness and the Agency is helpful homeopathy has remained the poor selling more than 50 homeopathic to applicants. The only difficult area relation. Access is restricted to a few remedies, that he said ‘have been concerns nosodes and that has yet to areas around the country including the shown by clinical trials to be no more be resolved in Brussels. west of Scotland, Bristol, parts of effective than sugar pills’. Not quite I was driving along the shores of Wales, London and Kent, while other true Edzard! He also accused the Loch Lomond one typical Scottish areas are in the homeopathic company of breaching his interpretation summer evening – driving rain and wilderness. It is one thing saying of the ethical guidelines drawn up by wind – when I collided with a tree homeopathy is available to all under the the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of blocking the road. Police were on the NHS but in practice there are Great Britain, by failing to tell customers scene quickly. A member of the insufficient GPs with the necessary that its homeopathic medicines contain Strathclyde Constabulary stuck his training to provide it. It is surely time no active ingredients and are ineffective head into the car. “You’re no deid for the Faculty to actively promote in clinical trials. He would have similar then?” he queried. When I assured him training more vigorously, not just to concerns about many over-the-counter I was still very much alive he smiled. GPs but to other health providers who cough mixtures (including expectorants) “It’s just that we have to fill out a lot of form part of the new team approach to then? What a man! forms if you’re deid” and then he health care. Indeed this would be a I was saddened at the passing of added “what you need is some of that good time to go on the offensive and Elizabeth Wincott whom I got to know Arnica stuff!” I felt extremely touched promote homeopathy more vigorously when she was Chief Executive of the by his concern for my welfare. to prospective patients – a theme Faculty and Homeopathic Trust and Have a good summer. I make no apology for returning to in with whom I served on the Advisory these columns on a regular basis. The Board on the Registration of Steven Kayne Faculty is not alone. Our colleagues in Homeopathic Products (ABRHP) more [email protected]

Patient-reported outcomes in the homeopathic hospitals

July has seen the publication of a paper that identifies the most important element of the study was to explore the wide range and complexity of medical complaints that are effect of duration of care on the outcomes reported. It was treated in the homeopathic hospital setting. The current clear that the proportion of follow-up patients reporting issue of Homeopathy reports the findings from our pilot major health improvement increased with appointment data collection study that took place across all five homeo- number, and that the magnitude of this effect varied pathic hospitals in the UK during the month of March 2007.1 considerably between the most frequently treated medical Data were recorded from a cross-section of all the patients complaints. These pilot observations are informing a receiving homeopathic care – 195 first appointments and programme of standard setting for homeopathic care that 1602 follow-up appointments. The most commonly treated we aim to establish across the hospitals. complaints were eczema, chronic fatigue, menopausal disorder and osteoarthritis. Elizabeth Thompson A high proportion of patients reported important co- Robert Mathie morbidity, especially in those individuals where homeo- References: pathic care had reached more than six appointments. 1. Thompson EA, Mathie RT, Baitson ES et al. Towards standard Overall, nearly 60% of follow-up patients reported health setting for patient-reported outcomes in the NHS homeopathic improvement that affected their daily living. However, the hospitals. Homeopathy 2008; 97 (July issue).

2 •• news

Support for homeopathy Tunbridge Wells still open turns tide at Wellcome debate for business Homeopathy was voted one vaccination, Guardian of the best ideas in medicine journalist Zoe Williams TWHH consultants David at a debate at the Wellcome argued for family planning, Ratsey and Helmut Roniger Collection in June, after and Raymond Tallis, are writing to their referring people rallied to support it on Emeritus Professor of GPs to alert them to the www.spiked-online.co.uk Geriatric Medicine also from fact that the hospital is still following its nomination as the University of Manchester, open and serving one of the worst ideas. spoke in favour of evidence- patients. GPs will be invited Wellcome’s ‘Best and based medicine. to a garden party planned Worst of Medicine’, two The debate was well for 20 September at the separate live debates on chaired and balanced, with hospital. The aim is to 26 June and 17 July, were each presenter being given generate discussion around promoted through the spiked equal time to put their the possibility of delivering website, where readers were case. The presentations services via practice-based asked to vote on topics for were followed by a short commissioning and other each debate. It is clear that a discussion between the routes. The legal action number of spiked contributors presenters and then brought against West Kent are anti-homeopathy and it questions from the audience. PCT by two patients was wasn’t surprising when a Sara proposed that withdrawn in June following Photo: courtesy of Kent Messenger nomination for homeopathy homeopathy was the best advice from their solicitors. David Ratsey and Helmut Roniger as the worst idea in medicine idea in medicine in the past, The PCT is currently outside TWHH was put up by Edzard Ernst in the present and would be concluding an Equality and Michael Baum. Thanks to so in the future. She Impact Assessment before TWHH is on ensuring that a some quick activity by the gave examples of how they make a final decision good number of supporters, Faculty to alert people to the Hahnemann’s thinking – about the funding of GPs and local government debate, an avalanche of posts about infectious diseases, homeopathic services. officers are present at the in favour of homeopathy the pre-tendency to develop The immediate focus for open day in September. appeared on the site. As a certain conditions, the result Wellcome decided to importance of sanitation alter their programme and and psychological processes Johnson) that the best comments and questions include homeopathy within – was way ahead of his time. medicine was that which about homeopathy, and the the best of medicine She explained the gave the “greatest benefit to Chair’s policy of taking category, as the ‘readers’ homeopathic process: the mankind” and proposed several questions before choice’. importance of history taking instead that the best asking a presenter to Below, Hilary Clark in order to discover important medicine “was accessible respond gave Sara time to shares her observations details about the patient and and available to all”. choose which to answer. from the debate. – quoting from Leonardo Given the nature of the Thus she had opportunity da Vinci – the need to debate about homeopathy in to explain in more detail the Homeopathy ‘jibes’ “study the science of art the media over the last few links between the emotions and the art of science”. months, I anticipated a much and the body, and to clarify fail to quell support Looking to the future, Sara more heated discussion. the apparent “paradox” at live event spoke briefly about the Yes, Raymond Tallis took between prescribing for Faculty President Sara Eames potential of homeopathy to every opportunity to have a the individual and prescribing spoke for homeopathy at the help control epidemics. She sarcastic dig at homeopathy a group of remedies for best of medicine debate at also suggested that we could but his attempt to bring the alleviating the various the Wellcome Collection on not afford to share the debate down to the ya-boo symptoms of disease during 26 June. Three other benefits of developments in politics of the House of an epidemic. speakers also took part: Western medicine in an Commons drew nothing At the end of the debate Michael Worboys, Director equable way – a point that from the other presenters the audience voted for what of the Centre for the History was picked up by a member and only a brief round of they thought was the best of Science, Technology and of the audience who applause from his idea in medicine. Vaccination Medicine at the University disagreed with Michael supporters. was the winner, but it was of Manchester, proposed Worboys (and Samuel There were lots of almost impossible from the show of hands to say which came second – evidence-based medicine New MFHom or homeopathy! Congratulations to Peter Miller from Devon, Hilary Clark who gained his MFHom qualification in May. Head of Education and Training [email protected]

3 •• news

No such thing as bad press? has received is quite a to be shrinking significantly. base. I can highly recommend wonder to behold! Whatever What are we doing? Many these productions. If you PR connections Ernst and members of the Promotion contact Melanie (moxley@ Singh have, they are highly Network are responding to trusthomeopathy.org) or effective. Many newspapers, the challenges online, on Robert (rmathie@trust magazines and journals have radio and TV and in homeopathy.org) directly I’m covered their work, almost all newspapers and magazines. sure they’ll be happy to email uncritically, and it has even But it’s all reactive and you copies. If you aren’t featured at the Hay Literary defensive so far. active in the Promotion Festival which has brought I expect you’re wondering Network yet, then can more media attention. It was what the silver lining is in I encourage you to start? reviewed in the BMJ and these rather dark clouds? Network members regularly Homeopathy has had a very given a four star rating. Well, there’s something help balance out the media high profile in the media over The line taken by Professor about how adversity can coverage by posting positive recent months. If it’s true Ernst in particular is that strengthen us. Our critics are comments on online forums that there is no such thing as homeopathy has been proven really forcing us to be very and writing letters – a good bad publicity we are currently not to work, that it is only focused and become more recent example of this was going through one of our best placebo and anyone effective communicators. We members’ activity on the phases! However, it really prescribing it is consciously have excellent, positive and spiked website (see item on doesn’t feel like that because deceiving their patients. strong messages to convey. Wellcome debate, p3). The the coverage is almost Alternative views to his are There’s nothing to be afraid Promotion Network universally negative. dismissed as lies. He has of. Melanie Oxley has joined communicate frequently by It really is not being paranoid even attacked Boots for us to help develop our media email and if ever there was a to believe that homeopathy selling homeopathic and communications work time to become an active is currently subject to a remedies. Simon Singh has and has recently emailed the member of the Faculty – this campaign. However, the had very negative articles Promotion Network with is it! Send me an email campaigners are not an published in many places, extremely helpful guidance expressing your interest and organisation or even a single including The New on dealing with the media. we’ll include you. group. For a while Ben Statesman and The Times. Robert Mathie, the BHA’s Goldacre, through his Bad His articles have included an research lead, has produced Bob Leckridge Science column in The attack on veterinary a powerful, succinct, positive Promotions Convener Guardian and forum on the homeopathy in The Times summary of the evidence [email protected] web, was the source of many and a group of vet members of the attacks but the baton responded but their letter seems to have been handed was not published. Elizabeth Wincott on to one Professor Ernst. He Well, if you’ve read this far, it has recently published a all feels a bit depressing, Elizabeth Wincott, chief book, Trick or Treatment – doesn’t it? And we’re far executive of the Homeo- alternative medicine on trial, from through this storm. pathic Trust and Faculty of with Simon Singh who is one There’s a lot more to come. Homeopathy between 1994 of the main activists within Is this having an impact? and 1999, has died aged 67. Sense about Science. The Probably. Certainly, in She had been suffering from amount of publicity this book England, PCT contracts seem cancer for some time. BHA Chairman John Cook commented: “Elizabeth was Dickson Mabon Politician and physician a dynamic force for change Dickson Mabon died on 10 when she arrived in 1994 and April at the age of 82. He we benefited greatly from persuasive powers. Her was best known as a long- her drive and enthusiasm. loss will be deeply felt by serving Labour MP but he On a personal note she had the many colleagues who was also a homeopathic great charm, presence and worked with her.” doctor and an influential supporter of homeopathy. He served as the first chair- Homeopathic help for Burma man of the NHS trust for the The Faculty received a communication from the Central RLHH and was a key figure Institute of Homoeopathic Medical Science (IHMS) in in saving the hospital from Myanmar (Burma), requesting donations for the treatment closure in 1991-92. He also of patients affected by Cyclone Nargis. Details were served as President of the circulated to the homeopathic pharmacies and both Freeman’s Faculty of Homeopathy and Helios were quick to respond with parcels of first aid between 1995-96. A full and acute remedies. The Faculty is now in regular email obituary is published in the contact with the IHMS. July issue of Homeopathy.

4 •• news

Homeopathy Awareness Week New Faculty website coming soon! Friends of the BHA and during the week. This giving bite-sized members of the Faculty year’s theme was allergy information on how We will be launching a brand new distributed over 12,000 and the BHA ran a very homeopathy can help website for the Faculty in the posters, flyers and successful event for a range of problems, autumn. Members are encouraged leaflets between 14-21 friends and members of which is proving very to make good use of the new June, more than doubling the public on 7 June. popular. resources it will provide. There will last year’s efforts. The New promotional These new materials be a password-protected area BHA sent out a press materials were launched are available from the which will include a discussion release and a number of for the week including a BHA alongside the usual forum and a full member database Faculty members were poster and flyer focussing range of leaflets – fill in which will be searchable by provided with a press on homeopathy for the enclosed request postcode. Members will be able to release template to allergies and a handy form to order copies for edit their own details online and create their own publicity wallet-sized “z-card” your surgery. submit changes to the Faculty rather than sending in paper update forms. You will also be able to choose whether or not to be BHA 2009 calendar on sale now included in the public ‘find a practitioner’ search facility on the The British Homeopathic Association has put together a calendar, Elements of Homeopathy, for 2009. British Homeopathic Association’s brand new website, which is being Buy a copy and help raise funds to support homeopathy! launched at the same time. More Get yours for the discounted price of £5 if you information about how members purchase before the end of August (full price £8). can make the most of the new site To order, fill in the the form enclosed with this issue and return will be made available in due it to the British Homeopathic Association, Hahnemann House, course – watch this space! 29 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE.

BECOME A FRIEND OF THE BRITISH HOMEOPATHIC ASSOCIATION Have you thought about joining the BHA? The charity is continually looking for new friends to grow the supporter base. As a friend you will receive four issues of our popular magazine Health and Homeopathy a year. For a donation of £25 you will be helping the BHA to do vital promotion work and improve access for patients at a very critical time for homeopathy. Join today by filling in the form below. Thank you!

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5 •• news

OU survey asks for opinions on Parents should talk to their complementary medicine GPs about CAM

Open2net, an online learning to explore conventional and The Children’s practices, hospitals, portal provided by The Open complementary approaches Complementary Therapy community clinics, health University and the BBC is to healthcare. To voice your Network (CCTN), a group centres and other outlets to conducting a survey into opinion on homeopathy and developed by the Freshwinds promote the initiative. health choices people make complementary medicine in charity based in Birmingham, Members of the CCTN in the UK. The survey is general go to www.open2. is launching an initiative to include complementary being run in conjunction with net/healtheducation/health_ encourage parents to tell therapists, doctors, nurses, the Wellcome Trust and aims socialcare/healthsurvey.html their doctors if they are using physiotherapists, complementary therapies in occupational therapists, their children. The network, teachers, researchers and Blackie Foundation grants which aims to provide a service developers. common platform for medical Membership is free. For For research and therapeutic professionals more details contact Dr Shah, The Blackie Foundation has recently streamlined its in the field of integrated Medical Officer, Freshwinds approach for grant applications. In the first instance medicine, is planning to on 0121 415 6670 or at applicants must complete an application form which is distribute a poster to GP [email protected] fairly short and can be submitted at any time. If this initial stage is successful applicants will be invited to submit a full grant application form for which there will be twice yearly deadlines. The Foundation is keen to receive all research proposals, but is particularly interested in those which build on From time to time we will include already published research. For further information go to Faculty policy statements in Simile www.blackieft.org or contact Julia Potter, Trust Administrator on 0207 935 0856. to remind members of the Faculty’s position on important issues. For Congress delegates The Blackie Foundation has again kindly agreed to contribute towards the cost of certain delegates attending the Faculty Conference in Harrogate. If you would like to apply please contact Hilary Clark at the Faculty ([email protected]). Priority will be given to those Faculty policy on vaccination people on a low income, who are not eligible for a grant from their place of work and who have not previously received funding from the foundation for this purpose. “Where there is no medical contraindication, immunisation should be carried out in the normal way using the conventional tested and approved vaccines. Where there is a medical contraindication and/or a patient would otherwise Calling all performers… remain unprotected against a specific infectious disease, it may be appropriate to consider the Wanted – male voices! use of the relevant homeoprophylactic For an informal ensemble to add to the gaiety of preparation applicable to that disease”. nations at the October Congress. “In the case of veterinary vaccination Operatic quality not required; just a liking for • protocols, in view of the current debate about ensemble singing the necessity for annual boosters and about the Good sense of humour essential and some • evidence supporting recommended booster sight-reading ability frequency and safety, the Faculty advises We’ll need Top tenor, Second tenor, First bass veterinary surgeons carefully to review the (baritone), Second bass. Any offers? Please contact published evidence, in order to form an opinion Jeremy Swayne at [email protected] and, if necessary to consult other Veterinary Members of the Faculty. This advice …and other entertainers notwithstanding, the Faculty cannot support Musicians, singers, comedians, poets, magicians, leaving animals with no form of prophylactic jugglers, fire-eaters … wanted for Congress cabaret! cover against the major, potentially lethal If you would like to perform either on Friday night at infectious diseases”. Ripley Castle or Saturday night at the gala dinner and dance – alone or with friends – please contact Faculty of Homeopathy Council, July 2005 Hilary Clark, Congress organiser at [email protected] or on 0870 444 3956.

6 •• comment Homeopathy under fire on doctors’ online network The website www.doctors.net.uk is a and regulated healthcare professionals course closing this forum is not ideal, free online network with a large working with the Faculty of Homeopathy. and does not address the attitude on selection of discussion forums and I pointed out the postgraduate training the rest of the forums, particularly the other interactive services. They claim structure within the speciality of GP forum. to be the largest online medical medical homeopathy and its place in Anyhow I thought I would inform networking site in the UK with a the NHS etc. Well, the volley of other members of what is happening membership of 155,000 doctors. criticism I received was staggering... on www.doctors.net.uk in case they One of their forums is entitled I contacted the management team are unaware. Considering this site “Complementary Medicine”. For the at www.doctors.net.uk and explained claims to be the largest medical last number of years I have just been firstly how offensive I found the networking site in the UK, I think it like many, a silent observer on these thread, “Child Murdering Homeopaths”. would be worth spending time and forums. Recently though I have started By this point it had around 85 energy on this issue, both to promote contributing. There is however a contributions from various people – the Faculty of Homeopathy and to disgusting, unprofessional, unethical mostly negative. After a lengthy defend homeopathy in general. I feel and highly inappropriate attitude by a discussion the team agreed to delete that this is the hot-bed of much of the number on the forums towards the thread completely from the site anti-homeopathy propaganda that we homeopathy. Some are interested to and place it in their archives for future have heard so much of recently. Every discuss, but some simply wish to reference. They promised to monitor negative comment in the newspapers denigrate the specialty in whatever for further offensive threads and and media is posted online for way they can. There are a few doctors discuss the situation with the medical everyone to gloat over and discuss. online who are supportive of team in charge of the site. The Within these forums are the people homeopathy and a couple of Faculty possibility of a future message who will try to close every NHS members who I am aware of, but they from the management team was homeopathy hospital and clinic in the are sadly in the minority. We could raised, something along the lines country. One posting even suggested adopt an attitude of “leave well of maintaining respect for other that any doctor practising homeopathy alone”, however this is a site visited colleagues in the specialty of should be reported to the GMC and on a daily basis by a huge number of homeopathic medicine. I was actually struck off. These doctors will oppose doctors. It is therefore a good platform quite surprised with the positive every advance of homeopathy. This is to propagate and promote outcome of the discussion, although an issue which involves all four regions homeopathy, or as is the case at things may change when the subject of the UK and such negative publicity present, to denigrate homeopathy. is broached with the medical team. could be very damaging to us all. This The attitude being displayed In any case, the offensive thread in is of particular danger to areas where towards medical homeopathy question has been deleted from members are working to develop new colleagues is not only deeply offensive general viewing. homeopathy services, such as is the and highly unprofessional, but also in I then raised the more general case in Northern Ireland. Lots of these direct breach of GMC guidance, “Good issue with regard to the attack on people are very vocal and I have no Medical Practice”, particularly the homeopathy and the constant doubt that some of them carry their section, “Respect for colleagues” vilification from many members. It was threats through and lobby various (Paragraphs 46–47). agreed this is something that will be influential and people and groups. I was disgusted a few weeks ago difficult to address, but I was told the This online battlefield is probably to discover a new thread had been situation would be monitored. just as important (if not more important) started on the “General Practitioners” There are some forums on the site within the medical profession as the forum, entitled “Child Murdering which are “closed” forums – in other newspapers are with the general Homeopaths”. It was started by a GP words, you have to be “vetted” by a public. I urge medical members to who was complaining about a local moderator to get into the forum. Some consider addressing this issue as a unregulated homeopath who was of these, such as the “Christian matter of urgency, by going online and advocating “measles parties” rather Medical Fellowship” and “Muslim contributing positive comments or by than vaccinations for children. Physicians” were created following contacting the management team to I eventually got the name of the similar inappropriate attacks. I discuss the unprofessional attitude homeopath and deduced that she was suggested that while not ideal, the being displayed on the site. To access registered with the Alliance of “Complementary Medicine” forum the site you need to register to get a Registered Homeopaths. Although could be made “closed”. Apparently free account. To do this you need a I had always restricted my postings in if there are 10 or more people, they GMC number, hence only doctors can the past to the Complementary would agree to this. I am confident access it. Any other non-medical Medicine forum, this headline really that there would be many interested members however should be able to got me frustrated and energized and Faculty members who could contact the company directly via their I decided to respond in the GP forum. contribute to a positive and stimulating contact details at www.doctors.net.uk. I tried to point out the problems with discussion forum. If there was enough unregulated practitioners and explain interest, the site could even create a Gary Smyth about the difference between them separate “Homeopathy” forum. Of [email protected]

have your say… send your comments to [email protected]

7 •• news

•• international focus: •• SOUTH AFRICA

South African Faculty achieves statutory accreditation

In September 2007, the South fly Barry out to evaluate and African Faculty of Homeo- accredit the course. We were pathy achieved registration successful and a most as a Private Higher Education productive and rewarding Institute accredited by all relationship with the British the essential government, Faculty was established. For statutory bodies: Council the first examination Barry for Higher Education, SA and David Williams attended Qualifications Authority, as external examiners and Department of Education and from 12 candidates we the Allied Health Professions achieved 10 graduates. Since Council of SA (AHPCSA). 1966 I had been the solitary The mandate for the Faculty MFHom in South Africa. is the homeopathic Suddenly I was no longer postgraduate training of Cleve McIntosh teaching a class alone and had colleagues registered medical doctors beside me to carry the work to diploma seven level, evening, all day Saturday, and The course venue will forward. Berkeley decided to (Diploma of the Faculty of Sunday until 4.00pm. A final alternate between Cape retire from lecturing, and I Homeopathy: DFHom), the pre-examination module tops Town and Johannesburg. was joined by Ronald Boyer, highest level possible for a the course up to 500 hours of The SA Faculty owes the a French doctor who had private institute, and to didactic and experiential British Faculty a huge debt come to South Africa on provide CPD education for learning. Friday afternoons of gratitude for the unfailing behalf of Laboratory Boiron professional homeopaths and evenings are devoted to encouragement and (France) to teach who have graduated from clinical subjects and include invaluable academic and homeopathy to the CEDH the five-year, full-time clinical theory, case-taking political assistance it has level. Uniting our skills, we homeopathic courses run by and role-playing under the received from its British ran two successful courses the University of Johannes- supervision of Cleve parent body. concurrently in Johannesburg burg and the Durban McIntosh; Saturdays and The story began in 1993 and Cape Town. During this Technical University. On Sunday mornings, I lecture when Berkeley Digby, a period, I had met Bob Friday 13 June 2008, the SA on materia medica, professional homeopath, Leckridge at the LIGA Faculty finally opened its philosophy and miasmatic invited me to assist him in Congress in Amsterdam and doors to commence its first theory; Sunday afternoons providing homeopathic Jeremy Swayne had taken course as a registered are supervised by Ann Haw training for a small group of over the reins of Dean from institute; it was a and Mike Clark and cover interested medical doctors in Barry Rose; two important momentous occasion. The principles and practice with Johannesburg. The course and enduring friendships venue was the Valkenberg emphasis on experiential was informal and did not resulted. For the next psychiatric hospital in Cape work: case-taking, live and include an assessment examination, Jeremy Town. Sixteen medical paper cases. All supervisors process or qualification. appointed Bob and Mike doctors registered for the are graduates of the British I enjoyed the experience and Jenkins as external course. A doctor holding the and SA Faculties. As in the suggested to Berkeley that examiners. I found yet French CEDH qualification, past, we will also have the we should establish a formal another friend, and Ronnie a Cape Town University assistance of experienced course leading to a and I achieved a full medical student and two professional homeopaths. recognised qualification. complement of MFHoms qualified professional We have found that this He was enthusiastic, so from our 11 candidates. This homeopaths also attended enriches the course with I contacted Barry Rose, was followed by another the weekend. Small diverse experience, and Dean of the Faculty, to uplifting result when our next numbers, indeed, but, encourages good establish whether our course 10 candidates were given the difficult times relationships and mutual could be accredited by the examined by Mike and Anton homeopathy is experiencing, respect between our non- Faculty and lead to an van Rhijn; all passed, and very gratifying. medical colleagues and MFHom qualification. With another special person The three year course ourselves. In South Africa, all the assistance of Pharma- entered my life, indeed, our is in modular form: eight professional homeopaths Natura, the South African lives, because Paddy, my modules per year, each have achieved a standardised pharmaceutical represent- wife, had taken over the module commencing 1.30pm level of training and are atives for Weleda and Wala in administrative work during Friday, and including Friday registered with the AHPCSA. South Africa, we were able to these years.

8 ••••casenews studies

Some facts about homeopathy in South Africa

• Homeopathy was introduced to South South African homeo- Africa in the late 1820s pathic politics had by now by missionaries from changed. The professional Europe, chiefly from homeopaths had achieved Germany but many statutory rights and a Dutch settlers also homeopathic register had brought it with them. been created. All homeo- pathic practitioners, medical It is thought that the or non-medical, had to be • Johannesburg pioneers or ‘Voor- qualified in homeopathy and ¥ trekkers’ who moved registered with AHPCSA. into the interior of what In addition, any course in is now South Africa in South Africa that led to a the 1830s and 1840s qualification had to be South Durban¥ carried homeopathic African-based, independent first aid kits. of any overseas principal, and had to be registered as a Cape Town Anyone wishing to teaching institute. Years of • ¥ prescribe or practice arduous, often frustrating homeopathy in South and exasperating, Africa must be bureaucratic paperwork Faculty led to the to assist me in teaching. registered with the ensued. Paddy and Beatrix misconception by the When Raymond joined Ann Allied Health Professions van der Westhuyzen (our authorities that we were a Haw, Jonathan Marchand and Council of South Africa. course co-ordinator) bore the service provider for the myself for the examination of This includes medical brunt of this difficult work. Faculty. Further delays and our 15 candidates, we were practitioners who have The new Dean, Raymond disappointments resulted. I still uncertain of our position. dual registration with Sevar, gave his unstinted appealed to the Faculty for Goal posts seemed to shift both the Health assistance and friendship, documentation to refute this. and government departments Professions Council making it possible for the Raymond provided the and their advice often (HPCSA) and the Allied fledgling South African necessary evidence. seemed at odds with Health Professions Faculty to set its own Fortunately, although having one another. Despite this Council (AHPCSA). examinations and achieve only provisional accreditation background, all our candidates independence, yet still retain and registration, we were passed and two attained The University of MFHom reciprocity. Cristal able to continue with the two distinction: Cleve McIntosh • Johannesburg and the Sumner was wonderfully courses. Ronnie had and Nav Purshotum. Durban University of supportive and encouraging departed to the USA to help Following these Technology offer a through these demanding Boiron in that part of the examinations conducted in 5-year full-time Masters times. Our reciprocity and world, so I gathered together January 2006, the South degree in homeopathy, accreditation with the British a team of MFHom graduates African Faculty went into the MTech(Hom), for recess to avoid jeopardising those who are not our chances of achieving medically qualified. registration. Time dragged by, punctuated by the Besides the Faculty receiving and dispatching of • Course for medical documents, and we had doctors, the MTech(Hom) almost lost hope when in is the only training September 2007 a large recognised by the official-looking envelope was Allied Health Pro- delivered to my practice and fessions Council of moments later a most SA (AHPCSA) for the impressive certificate lay in purposes of registering my hands. We had arrived! as a homeopath in Students with teachers David Nye, Cleve McIntosh (back row, first and second from South Africa. left) David Lilley (first on right) and in the front row Ann Haw (first left) along with David Lilley course coordinators Pam Evens (second left) and Beatrix van der Westhuyzen (right) [email protected]

9 •• news

•• research update The BMJ discusses placebo Faculty Forty-four percent of random- enhanced doctor-patient References: research ised controlled trials (RCTs) of relationship. 1. www.trusthomeopathy.org/ homeopathy in the peer- Good improvements were Veterinary research and pdf/Summaryofresearchevide reviewed research literature reported by 3% of the first nce.pdf clinical data collection have been positive1. Most of group, by 20% of the 2. Kaptchuk TJ, Kelley JM, The paper describing the those studies were placebo procedure alone group, and results of the Faculty’s Conboy LA, et al. controlled. Good evidence by 37% of the ‘augmented Components of placebo collaborative research exists therefore that homeo- intervention’ group. Clearly effect: randomised controlled with Bristol Vet School pathy has health benefits the group with the greatest trial in patients with irritable was submitted for greater than those of placebo. relief of symptoms was the bowel syndrome.BMJ 2008; 336: 999–1003 (3 May). publication in April. This Additional insight into the one that received not only work should make a ‘placebo effect’ itself was sham treatment but 45 3. Spiegel D, Harrington A. substantial impact when it provided on 3 May by the minutes of quality contact Editorial – What is the placebo worth? The doctor- is published! Meanwhile, British Medical Journal. It with a clinician. the 12-month veterinary patient relationship is a published a clinical trial that Of course the empathetic crucial part of its value. BMJ data collection project looked specifically at this doctor-patient relationship is 2008; 336: 967–968 (3 May). was completed at the end factor2, together with two also paramount in homeopathic 4. Pittrof R, Rubenstein I. Views of April as planned and 3,4 other linked articles . In the practice, and it is likely that and Reviews – The thinking work has begun on trial, patients with irritable this has a positive influence doctor’s guide to placebos. preparing the data for bowel syndrome (IBS) were on health outcome. However BMJ 2008; 336: 1020 (3 analysis and write-up over randomised into three groups: the 57 positive trials tell us May). the next several months. • those who were merely there is more to homeopathy 5. Witt CM, Bluth M, Albrecht observed, than that and there is a grow- H, et al. The in vitro evidence Research reviews • those who were given ing volume of experimental for an effect of high A number of evidence sham acupuncture, and research that shows that homeopathic potencies – A updates have been systematic review of the • those who were given homeopathic dilutions can literature. Complement Ther prepared over the past 3 sham acupuncture with an exert biological effects5. Med 2007; 15: 128–138. months. A summary of the 134 peer-reviewed clinical trials published up Asthma primary care survey: better communication needed to the end of 2007 shows Academic Unit of Primary generated 3693 potential educational qualifications, 59 positive, 8 negative, Health Care, University respondents, of whom 1320 those not usually helped by and 67 not statistically of Bristol, and Bristol (36%) returned asthma medication, and conclusive either way. Homeopathic Hospital, United questionnaires. Taking full those who have difficulty This and much additional Bristol Healthcare Trust, UK account of the survey sleeping because of asthma information will feature in Asthma is the most common design, 14.5% (190/1308; symptoms. Dissatisfaction the new Faculty website chronic disease in the UK 95% confidence interval with conventional care was when it is launched later and patients with chronic 12.5% to 16.6%) had used not associated with in the year. conditions are increasingly complementary therapies complementary therapy use using complementary for asthma; 54% of these for asthma. Open therapies, but there is little patients had not disclosed communication between reliable quantitative their complementary professionals and patients evidence regarding the therapy use to a health about complementary Evidence base prevalence of complementary professional. The three therapies may be valuable to therapy use among asthma therapies most commonly give patients enhanced summary patients and predictors of used were homeopathy, opportunities to discuss the For an updated use. A postal survey of herbal medicine and impact of asthma on their summary of the complementary therapy use relaxation. Just over half of quality of life and the among asthma patients was those using complementary effectiveness of their evidence base for therefore conducted via 27 therapies for asthma conventional treatment. homeopathy, general practices across reported that they usually or Reference: which can be printed seven PCTs within the South always helped; the most Shaw A, Noble A, Salisbury C, out on one sheet West Strategic Health common reported benefits Sharp D, Thompson E, Peters of A4, email Authority in England from were symptom reduction, TJ. Predictors of August 2005 to May 2006. calming breathing and complementary therapy use sbuckingham@trust among asthma patients: results A total of 14,833 asthma reducing panic. There was of a primary care survey. Health homeopathy.org patients were identified. increased likelihood of use Soc Care Community 2008 Mar; A 1-in-4 random sample among women, those with 16: 155-164.

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Be part of it – register today! •• case studies

A case of Belladonna and Staphisagria

“S” is a 26 year-old policewoman with my 20s I had trouble with all four migraine goes away within 30 minutes blue eyes, red hair and lots of freckles. wisdom teeth and had an operation to to an hour. remove them. I got a very high fever I am still having vivid dreams but no Consultation November 2001 for two days after the operation and dreams of snakes… My energy has …I’ve had severe migraine for two then I was OK. gone up to about 60/100 – and no years and it’s getting worse. I was put My father is the boss of our family. slump in energy from 4-6pm. I have on Amitryptylline – I put on weight and He worked on the oil rigs till his much more energy – I am doing felt sleepy but it didn’t help so I accident – two weeks work and two overtime and mixed shifts and am still stopped. Then I had Atenolol which weeks home. I’m still terrified of OK. I have gone back to the gym and made me very ill, and then codeine but upsetting him and still jump if he started my sports again. It is much that makes me vomit… The migraine is shouts. He gave us everything he easier for me to get up in the morning. a terrible throbbing pain in my temples. didn’t have as a child. I want him to be I don’t have any lethargy after a I feel the blood surging through my proud of me. I’m close to my mother. headache because they are less severe head. The pain spreads to my eyes and She always helps and encourages me, and so short. I sleep better – I’m asleep cheeks and my face feels numb… It’s but since she has been so ill it has in seconds. so very much worse from light, and any been difficult. I’m getting better with people. I’m noise – even the sound of the TV, and I overheat easily but feel chilly not irritable and snappy. I feel so much it’s very bad if I take a misstep and jar when I’m ill. I’m terrible if it is too hot more sociable and am going out a lot my head. I just have to go and lie down and I couldn’t live in a hot country. I’m and enjoy it. My appetite has gone up in a dark room. My whole scalp hurts if more like my father in looks and build. but my weight is OK because I am so it is touched. The pain goes on for I’m the firstborn and I have a younger active. I’m not so worried about my days… It usually begins on the right sister. I put on two stone with the mother now… I’m getting more spots side behind my eye and spreads behind drug treatment but lost it before my on my face and shoulders like the acne both eyes. The pain seems behind my wedding. Everyone was so pleased I had as a teenager. eye and comes piercing forwards that my mother lived to see the Treatment: Continue Belladonna through my eye. It is the right side of wedding… My energy is 25/100, 30c drops when required for migraine. my face that goes numb for a couple of very low in the morning and again Mother gave regular reports for hours or it can last three whole days. from 4-6pm in the afternoon… I don’t three years afterwards – “S” remained Bright light is terrible but even normal like to drink liquids – water just seems well and Belladonna still helps if she daylight makes it worse. Loud noises to sit in my stomach and doesn’t gets migraine but she hardly ever gets pierce right through my head. I feel go anywhere. I am never thirsty. an attack. light-headed like drunk with the pain I love bacon sandwiches and crisps and my vision goes blurry and my legs and chips. Four years later – consultation are wobbly. It builds up from nothing to I have a tremendous fear of snakes March 2006 full pain in half an hour and then it is just like my mother. I can’t even watch The migraines are brilliant – very rare just steady pain for between two hours snakes on TV. I have dreams of snakes and relieved quickly by Belladonna. or two days. At most I can get them and I wake terrified. I am convinced I’ve had high blood pressure since every other day… It comes on more if they are under the bed. I can’t go back I was pregnant. At 28 weeks my blood I get anxious. I worry about my mother to sleep and I can’t put my feet out of pressure shot up and I was admitted to who you are treating for lung cancer. the bed after the dreams. hospital. My kidney function was I worry if I have upset my mum or Analysis 1 – this must be Belladonna – decreased with pre-eclampsia so I was dad… I get nausea with the pain but keynotes: right side, sudden onset delivered at 31 weeks. I was on beta- only vomit if I take a drug for the pain. < jar & totality – Rubrics 1 blockers for six months then stopped I moved out of my parent’s house a and still have BP checks every six few months before the migraine • HEAD PAIN: light, from; agg.; noise, months. Recently my BP had gone up. started. My boyfriend was ill and upset from; PULSATING; jar, from any; My husband has been having an with his divorce… I used to be very sleep; agg.; after affair and she works in the same police sporty and that used to boost my • FACE; NUMBNESS station as I do. I feel nausea and an energy. After the migraine attack is • EYE; PAIN; stitching acid burning in my stomach whenever over I feel completely exhausted. It is • PERSPIRATION; lips; upper I see her. I’m always questioning such an effort to do anything. I feel as • ANXIETY; conscience, of whether he’s still seeing her and never if I am an old woman. Now I don’t get • Fear/dream/delusion [2] snakes at peace. I suspected my husband for any buzz from exercise and I can’t be the past year. I accused him and he bothered. Treatment: Belladonna 30CH 30ml 2 lied. He is never at home… I feel so When I was 16 I had glandular fever drops when required for migraine. very angry. My parents and sister don’t and was off school for four weeks and know. When he told me I said Oh, off games for a long time. My whole Consultation January 2002 Right, and the next day we talked a bit. throat was swollen and I couldn’t drink. Each time I get migraine I take The whole police station already knew. I’ve never really been so well since Belladonna and each time it helps. The I hated him. I was furious. He didn’t tell then. I’ve been more tired and I got lots attacks are getting milder, less intense me everyone else knew… I feel so of sore throats like glandular fever and further apart – I am not having half utterly humiliated… As if I can never coming back till I was 20 or 21. Then in as many. Each time I take the drops the trust anyone ever again… I kept all the

12 •• case studies

Photo courtesy of Vilma Bharaton electrical ablation via a tube through her neck. Her cancer is still fine. She has check-ups every six months and is fine. It was December 2000 when she was only given weeks to live with lung cancer and you treated her. I feel more focused, more confident and people have commented how I look and seem much better. I’m more my old self. I’m not a doormat any more. I told my husband I had been to see you and why and how I needed to take medicine for my blood pressure. We are easier together. I don’t know if I have a future with my husband – if yes, OK, if not, OK. With the first dose I could taste the medicine and I felt it soaking into me… It was a taste I have never tasted before – a nice taste. I slept deeply that first night. I’ve never tasted the medicine since that first dose. I felt the improvement in myself within the first week… Yes, I’ve dyed my hair a different shade of red and have lost some more weight. On examination: BP 132/82. Treatment: Continue Staphisagria anger and rage inside me and would lie provoked by her husband’s infidelity: LM4 30 ml 2 drops daily awake all night with it all going around • her honour is deeply wounded in my head… I wish he would just • she feels rage & desires violent Consultation August 2006 die… I cry a lot in private. I feel anger revenge I’m now a happy single woman. I told all the time. I feel like I’m going mad. • suppresses emotions & restrains the lying, stinking, conniving shit to I don’t trust him. I don’t know how to violent impulses leave. I spat in his face and felt so trust him. I hate him. • expresses emotion in trembling, much better. I’ve sold my house and I’ve lost two stone in the last six insomnia & arterial hypertension bought another. I had chlamydia tests months from all the emotion which is done and they’re negative. I’ve had the only good thing about it. … I work Rubrics professional photographs done of me four days and have three days off with • HONOR, wounded, agg. *** and my son and we have been on my son… My life was nothing. There is • MORTIFICATION, humiliation, holiday. I have lost weight and am no time for me... I’ve been thinking chagrin agg.; Indignation, with ** training for a half marathon charity run. about killing myself with pills. I always • DISAPPOINTMENT, deception agg. I feel so much better. feel so alone. *** Some nights I still sit on the floor He told me two weeks before my • ANGER; Trembling, with ** with a towel in my mouth screaming. 30th birthday… I’d like to punch and • KILL, desire to ** I’m still full of hatred and would be glad kick him and her and pulverise them • THOUGHTS; Rush, flow of; if he dropped dead but I can be civil to into a bloody pulp. I won’t do it – I sleeplessness; with * his face. I’ve told my parents – that won’t lose my credibility. I would never • Clinical; HYPERTENSION was hard – and they’ve been so do that… I feel such huge anger, rage supportive. It is my sister’s wedding and hate. When I took my marriage Treatment: Staphisagria LM4 30 ml 2 next week so now she can have the vows I meant every word. I would drops daily burden of my parents’ desire for more never be unfaithful. grandchildren. She dared to phone me at home. Consultation May 2006 On examination: BP 115/75 I could hardy breathe. I felt I should be I definitely feel different. I’m not lying Advised to continue Staphisagria shouting and screaming but instead awake as much mulling it all over in my LM4 2 drops daily till BP had been I was trembling for hours. I told my mind. I’ve challenged my husband normal for six months and then till she sergeant the next day and he put a instead of sulking. I’ve been crying forgets to take it. harassment order on her. more and not trying to hide it. I feel a On examination: BP 138/98 lot calmer. My mother is ill in hospital Raymond Sevar and I’m still a lot calmer… She has Dean Analysis 2 been diagnosed with an unusual heart [email protected] There has been a clear shift in symptoms arrhythmia – they are going to do an www.raymondsevarhomeopathy.com

13 •• case studies

A case of flowing, changing and re-modifying

This is a case solved purely through Say more about the anger, please. What do you mean? using the Sensation level of experience “It’s since I was a child. My father was “The optimistic part of me which thinks of the patient. The patient’s very violent and aggressive and not good things, about myself which can spontaneous and fascinating very nice. We spent a lot of time in rebuild. It’s good to be bendable, descriptions of her deep inner women’s refuges. I feel that really flexible, wobbly. I’m not myself. I’m a experience lead to a clear perception of deep inside me. If I shout that just thin person normally. I’m heavy and her remedy state. doesn’t touch it, doesn’t get rid of it. slow. Clothes don’t fit so it’s difficult Woman aged 26. She presents with It’s connected to authority. Quite a lot to express myself “clothes-wise”. a chief complaint of anxiety. of my anger is directed to medical “I really believe in mothering and She writes on her questionnaire: people when it doesn’t go right. really want to give my whole self “I worry a lot more than I used to. Or with teachers at my children’s and my whole being for my first year, I am also very angry. I just feel angry a school. If I’m cross I pursue it. When even to the detriment of myself. lot. I have coeliac disease. I struggle I was young I was very ill and had lots I’m not important. But I don’t believe with anaemia, lack of energy, of tests but never got a diagnosis. I in martyrship – then I want myself abdominal pain, diarrhoea, headaches, was anaemic and sickly, maybe that’s back. I’m happy to sacrifice for the depression and nervousness. I hate why I’m angry with the medical first year.” to follow rules and have really profession.” struggled with following a gluten-free Say more about the anxiety. diet. I was diagnosed last year but Describe this red river, please. “Keeping the family together and well.” I believe I have had it since childhood. “It’s central in my body. A column, I feel anxiety and anger in my chest central to my being. Everything else Say more. and shoulders.” is built around it. It feels like lava, “So that we’re a whole. They still feel In the consultation she says: volcanic. It doesn’t feel like it could part of me – a unit, a whole, a ball. “The main thing is anxiety. I worry erupt. It’s flat, not hot particularly. And if a bit is missing, like a portion about my husband, my children. It’s slow moving – it doesn’t change.” taken out and then the ball won’t spin I worry “Is the house locked up?” and or roll properly. I don’t like them being I have to get up in the night to check. Just describe it again, please, don’t apart from each other or from me. I worry if the children are on swings: worry if you’re repeating yourself. When they’re in different places it feels rather than enjoying them having “It feels like a ribbon all the way like someone’s chopped off my hands fun I’m worrying about their safety. through me. Like I’m a head stuck on or my feet. It feels like bits of me are in I feel very nervous and on edge all it, like I’m hanging on it and it moves different places. My children become the time. I’m withdrawing and have through me very slowly in a straight extremities of my body. I’m convinced to shut off. I’m angry for very slight line downwards like a column from that I’ll forget the fourth one and I’m reasons.” head to toe. It feels like it should go forever checking, for example, that’s upwards not downwards, but it goes he’s in the car seat.” Describe the anger. downwards. It’s not violent. It doesn’t “It feels like a river. A red river which is jump, there’s no ripple, no jerky Say more about the children being constantly flowing. I think if I could get movements, not like a fire. It’s solid, part of you. rid of this anger my coeliac disease liquidy and solid – like liquidy fire. It’s “When we’re separated we’re not a would get better. I’m sure it’s a always been there, part of me. It’s like whole anymore, we’re less strong, metaphor.” wax when it’s dripping down a candle. we’re broken. It feels stronger when It’s not red actually, it’s orange-yellow, I’m part of the family. I’m happy when What do you mean? like lava, it glows. It’s not hot, it’s kind they’re back home. It really scares me “Getting angry with things and people of wax-warm.” when we’re apart – it feels like which aren’t harmful to me – wasting dismembered hands and feet. I feel time or getting cross with them, I’m Say more about the anxiety. open, vulnerable.” sure it’s translated into my bowels, I’m “It’s fairly new. I’m sure it’s related to attacking myself with food which is not having four children. They feel like Describe this more. really harmful to me. different parts of me in different “Completely spaced out. Rolling “I’m quite nervy, highly strung. places. It feels like I’ve completed my over, vulnerable, open to things I don’t have a lot of clarity in my family and now I’ve got to protect it. which can harm me or the whole thought. My head feels a bit messy – “I’m not myself. I’ve lost myself. family. When they’re with me I feel parts of my brain are not quite linking I can’t remember who I am anymore. less open, safer, a ball again, holding up as well as they used to.” I’ve forgotten what I was like.” them to me.”

14 •• case studies

Describe this feeling of a ball more. the different light it gives on different ones branching to the sides. Early “It’s enclosed and protected, like an days. I’m very connected to my ovaries, naturalists called them Proteus armadillo.” the womb, the effect it makes with the animalcule after the Greek god Proteus sea and the moon. It’s all the same who could change his shape. In the Describe it more. thing, what can be life-giving fluid.” nineteenth century they were called “Grey and green and gooey. Amoebae from the Greek word amoibe A cold creature, rolling, curled up with Say more about that. meaning change, alternation. armour on. Shiny.” “It’s interchangeable, moving, different.” Prescription: Amoeba 1M

Describe the ball a bit more. Say more about that. Follow up at one month: “It’s like a liquid ball, cool, there’s “I feel like the sea. I’m different “I’ve been better. For three days a lot going on within it. It’s colours on different days. Not see- immediately after the remedy it was contained and moving as a whole, through some days. See-through on difficult – I cried a great deal, it was not fast. The colour is greeny-blue others. Moving. You feel like you’ve hard, I was terribly negative, I felt turquoise.” lost yourself.” suicidal and really low. Then there was a transformation. I had lots of dreams Please describe yourself to me. Say more about that. of doing things, and a lot about food. “I don’t ever want to be the same. “I’m undergoing change, changing, The dry skin on my hands cleared and I want to be different on different days. learning, adapting, re-modification, a I had no dandruff although this seems a For example, optimistic or pessimistic stronger person.” little worse within the last few days. on different days, on different hours in I’m much more positive. I’m much less the day. I like to be variable. I like Say more about the feeling you get when anxious. My anger’s coming out – I’m change. I’m unconventional. I like to the family is in different places. so cross at the moment – I have a really have a rough plan, but I like to be able “I can’t function. Then I’m more with low flashpoint. I’m taking responsibility to change my mind.” the parts than with my own self. for myself.” There’s too much distance. When Say more about wanting to be different they’re back I become one again. Say about the anger. things on different days. When they’re back there are no lines “I’ve never been this cross before. I feel “You would feel constrained if you’re or marks where they’ve been it in my head. It’s very hot, very extreme, one thing all the time. I want to be separated. I hold them in again.” for no reason. Just in the last two days. different things on different days. I want to shout really loud, a primal Live for the moment. I like to change. Case analysis scream. I ate bread a week ago and I’ve I like to move forward.” There is discussion in the homeopathic had tummy pains and diarrhoea since.” community at the moment about the Prescription: Amoeba 1M Describe that more. value of “Sensation” material. Many “It’s that ball moving – improving, patients spontaneously – or when Follow up at two months: learning, moving.” taken deeper into their state – describe “After the last appointment I became a level of experience which is beyond very focussed and energised. I got a lot Describe the moving. the mental and emotional realm but done. It’s been amazing. The anxiety “Directionless. A ball with another ball extremely real and significant to them. has been non-existent although very inside it. It changes. It’s metal and This sensation level of experience can slightly again in the last few days. The moving. Not aimlessly – it’s flowing. sometimes point very clearly and anger just went away after the last Nobody’s pulling or pushing it. Just directly to their remedy. appointment. I can drink water now doing what it wants to do.” In this case there was no other way whereas I really didn’t like it before. to find the remedy except through I’ve been eating gluten. I’ve had no Describe the flowing more. using this sort of data. I think many pain and no diarrhoea. “The outside is liquid, but inside is homeopaths have been using this kind “It’s funny. You know I talked about metal.” of information for years in an almost that column feeling? I can’t get in touch instinctive fashion but are now much with it now. I can think about it but I Describe the liquid. more consciously aware of what they can only look back on it. I can’t feel it “It’s like the sea. It’s moving as a whole, are doing. Rajan Sankaran’s work has like I used to.” moving seamlessly. helped enormously to systematise and Prescription: Amoeba 1M “I don’t like to follow rules too clarify this method. much. I don’t like to conform except for This woman is describing several Follow up continues safety. I follow safety rules rigidly but main sensations: changing – changeable This “absence” of the sensation I hate stupid rules. I can’t deal with – flowing – fluid – remodification – parts following the remedy proves to me the “must”, that makes me cross and angry. breaking away then reforming the whole. reality and significance of the “I love the sea. I feel very con- Her remedy is made from a experience. This woman, I am sure, nected when I’m there. Very feminine.” creature which is described as follows: will continue to be hugely relieved of single-celled animals that catch food her psychological and physical suffering Say more about that, please. and move around by extending finger – and do very well long-term. “I like to be near the sea, the like projections of protoplasm. They choppiness. I like the different colours have no definite shape. They have a Jonathan Hardy on different days, different temperature single large tubular pseudopod at the Independent Practice Representative and different places. I like the moon, anterior end and several secondary [email protected]

15 •• events

REPORT: 63rd Congress of the Liga Medicorum Homoeopathica Internationalis – 20-25 May, Oostende, Belgium

This year’s Liga Congress took place in Oostende. Like all conferences a lot of interesting discussion took place outside of lecture theatres and many friendships were renewed and new ones forged; but this was the first time that I had actually presented a paper. David Owen and I talked about “Managing Confused and Hidden Cases.” Fortunately, this was scheduled for the first day so nerves were quickly settled and we managed to get there on time despite Eurostar and French strikes, and David Owen hitching a lift with some Romanians! It is impossible to attend all the sessions, so useful summaries were provided at the end of the day and Left to right: Patricia Ridsdale, Mrs. Monserrat, Sara Eames, Ralph Monserrat, Homeopath and Chinese Medicine specialist much informal discussion took place in from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, Joyce Frye, OB-GYN, Research Design for Integrative Medicine from Maryland bars and restaurants. A CD of all the presentations was also included. occurring group of elements in the the expressed sensation was shown to Particularly noteworthy were Peter periodic table. They lie in the gold tie in with the stage of progression of Fisher’s summary of homeopathic series and have a secret, special quality illness with the body screaming its research in the real world, a Russian with power, self-control, and autonomy symptoms and needs if we only but paediatric ENT consultant’s work with being key words. Some lovely cases listen and understand. Homeovox, a compound preparation were used to illustrate the remedies The conference dinner on the Friday used with voice problems and clearly such as Samarium sulphuricum and evening took place in the Bell Tower in illustrated with superb video cases, Lanthanum phosphoricum. Bruges and was excellent. Champagne and a paper on an RCT in Brazil of Oostende is a strange mixture of and wine flowed, lubricating conver- homeopathic treatment versus fishing port, seaside destination and sation and there was dancing to an fluoxetine which shows a favourable conference centre with added enthusiastic swing band. We met outcome for homeopathy and which chocolate shops that works well most fellow homeopaths with whom we has been accepted for publication by of the time and was especially know we will keep in touch and the British Journal of Psychiatry. It was attractive on this occasion as there hopefully meet at future LIGA good to hear of so many pieces of were many tallships in port for the Congresses, next year’s being in good quality work supporting “Oostende at Anchor” event. Warsaw, 26-30 August. It is certainly homeopathy in these difficult days of This was a rare opportunity to worth venturing further afield to soak criticism. come together with homeopaths, up the wealth of experience and Although the audiovisual equipment (medical, dental, veterinary and approaches to a common goal that played up at the beginning, Jan pharmaceutical among others), from all contribute to the world of homeopathy. Scholten and his team presented an over the world, from different cultures excellent masterclass on the and viewpoints but all appreciating the Patricia Ridsdale Lanthanides, the largest naturally same core concepts. Time and again [email protected]

Congress 2008 pooling our Sponsorship and exhibition knowledge space still available

There are still sponsorship opportunities and exhibition stands available at Congress. Exhibitors will be in a lovely central room with bay windows overlooking the hotel gardens – delegates will be eating their lunch in the same place.

Contact Hilary Clark at [email protected] or 0870 444 3956 for further details.

16 •• events

REPORT: Faculty CPD seminar: Food and Moods with Anton van Rhijn – 29-31 May, Edinburgh

Twenty-nine Faculty members gathered selected to demonstrate that food was in the elegant conference room of the a factor in the illness under treatment. Royal Scots Club to hear Anton van One cornerstone of treatment of Rhijn. We had come from the far north these difficult cases is elimination from of Scotland, from Northern Ireland, diet of intolerance-addiction foods and from Bristol, and from Surrey. We were intestinal support. A “Stone Age Diet” there especially to hear how Anton is sometimes necessary. This is uses knowledge of nutrition to improve accompanied by a homoeopathic clinical outcomes in homoeopathic medicine prescribed according to the treatment. Most had heard Anton characteristics of the case. Occasionally speak at other meetings and were there is a need to wait until the homeo- drawn by certainty that he had valuable pathic picture clarifies following food things to share. elimination. The seminar was set out in three In Part 1, four adult patients parts over two days; mood and respectively suffering from; multi- nutrition, ADHD and autism. Anton, a system disease, insomnia, depression consultant at the Royal London and anxiety demonstrated the validity Homeopathic Hospital, has a research of this approach. In Parts 2 and 3, background in psychiatry and an MSc in necessarily paediatric, clinical cures nutritional medicine. He has a special were achieved sometimes very rapidly interest in the treatment of children. indeed. It was no surprise that the Anton van Rhijn In Part 1 Anton set out how foods indicated group medicines included through their effects on neuro- There was no apology for reminding us Spiders, the Solanaceae, and Veratrum transmitters affect mood and gave us a of the universal need for the latter. album. However the final prescriptions round up of current knowledge of the Anton took us through current were chosen from the groups on finely food intolerance problems associated treatment options for ADHD. He tuned classical grounds. Baryta with Leaky Gut Syndrome. He spoke focussed on the problem of the nitricum and Neon cases showed of the adverse role of sugar, and of the stimulant drug therapies and in Anton’s facility with the work of common food allergens, milk and particular, on Ritalin “the chemical Scholten. We discussed appropriate wheat; also of the beneficial foods that straight-jacket”! He reminded us that materia medica. The patients were are able to stimulate appropriate homeopathic treatment is as effective treated and followed over many production of neurotransmitters. He as Ritalin (BHJ 2001, 90, 183-188 [Frei]). months, in some cases years, to paid tribute to the pioneering work of On autism in Part 3 Anton took the confirm the clinical cures. Richard Mackarness (Not All in the Mind, same approach; i.e. through diagnosis, The relative contributions to clinical 1976) and showed that Mackarness’s epidemiology and diagnostic features. cure of dietary control and of homeo- concepts are just a relevant today. Posing the question “ Autism – A pathy caused some discussion. Anton’s The involvement of food in the Metabolic Disorder”, Anton refocused view seemed to be that food might be patient’s disease process is identified our attention on food deficiency, on one block to cure but that homeopathic usually from the detailed history. toxicity, on the gastro-intestinal tract medicine is the curative agent. That Frequently repeated infection in child- and once again on the leaky gut. The view coincides with that of Dr hood and the prescription of several message came over: Remove (toxic Hahnemann! courses of antibiotics are common- substances), Repair (gut wall with In the cold light of prevailing medical place; a tale may emerge of cravings glutamine and Replace (pathological antagonism in the UK towards homeo- and restricted diet; excessive thirst; flora with probiotics). Among measured pathy, the success that Anton has dark rings under the eyes or of IBS in nutritional deficiencies in these children demonstrated provoked a strong adults; all these are clues that food Omega-3 oil and sulphur are among the debate about whether an ADHD/ factors may be a block to cure. worst and commonest. Autism clinic should be established In Part 2 Anton led us swiftly I have not referred, so far, to the at RLHH. through diagnosis co-morbidity and homeopathy of the seminar. This came There were a few sassenachs in epidemiology of ADHD and variants of in a series of well-illustrated and well- the mostly Scottish, and mostly female, Pervasive Developmental Disorders. discussed cases throughout the two appreciative audience (what has Then he explored with us the biological, days. The clinical case presentations happened to men in medicine and endocrine, toxic and nutritional were of patients that Anton has seen, homeopathy in particular?). There was aetiological factors. Putting emphasis some of them over many years, at the strong agreement that the Faculty, on toxicology he discussed the effects Royal London Homeopathic Hospital. through Anton, had provided two very of food additives. Fussy eating is a Anton’s cases in the RLHH, NHS enlightening and useful-in-practice days. feature of ADHD and autism resulting hospital clinic setting were necessarily in deficiencies particularly in zinc, restricted in consultation length and David Williams vitamin B6 and Essential Fatty Acids. follow-up. The case histories were [email protected]

17 •• case studies

•• examinations calendar 2008 PRIMARY HEALTH CARE EXAM/ PRELIMINARY CERTIFICATE IN VETERINARY HOMEOPATHY

EXAM EXAM DATE VENUE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS PHCE/PCVH 19 September London 15 August

PHARMACY DIPLOMA – OPEN TO PHARMACISTS WHO HAVE PASSED THE PHCE

EXAM EXAM DATE VENUE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS DFHom (Pharm) TBA TBA 25 July

MEMBERSHIP EXAM – OPEN TO DOCTORS AND NURSES WHO HAVE PASSED THE PHCE

EXAM EXAM DATE VENUE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS MFHom Part 1 24 October Glasgow & Luton 22 August

MFHom Part 2 7 November London (clinical exam) 12 September 21 November Glasgow (clinical exam) 12 September 5 December Bristol (clinical exam) 12 September

VETERINARY MEMBERSHIP EXAM – OPEN TO VETS WHO HAVE PASSED THE PCVH

EXAM EXAM DATE VENUE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS VetMFHom Part 1 13 October Luton (written exam) 15 August VetMFHom Part 2 November (TBA) Oxfordshire (clinical exam) 15 August

SPECIALIST REGISTRATION – OPEN TO DOCTORS WHO HAVE GAINED THE MFHOM

EXAM EXAM DATE VENUE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS Assessment 15 October Glasgow 15 August (cases and dissertation) 22 October Luton 15 August (cases and dissertation)

CLASSIFIED AD CLASSIFIED AD

Thriving integrative/homeopathic Homeopathic doctor wanted medical practice for sale For three-month locum in Available from January 2009. busy practices on South Coast. Situated in beautiful Cape Town. Four days a week between Current practice consists of medical, January and March. homeopathic, acupuncture, chelation etc. Email: [email protected] Several other therapy rooms and small seminar room as well. If interested contact [email protected]

18 •• eventscase studies

•• what’s on august 2008 – february 2009

Regular meetings Trustee Leeds Homeopathic Group Regular meetings in Morley, Leeds. vacancies • Pauline Price on 0113 252 8849 or at [email protected] London Homeopathic Group on Dates for next 2008/2009 session to be arranged. • Anita Davies at [email protected] or BHA Council Rosie Coles on 020 7935 4271

Northern Homeopathic Vets Group Meetings are held every month in Leeds, starting at 8.00pm, usually at the home of one of the participants. All vets with an interest in homeopathy are welcome to attend. The British Homeopathic All aspects of homeopathy are suitable subjects for the meetings, including Association is seeking two new case histories and study of materia medica. trustees to join its Council. The • Chris Almond at [email protected] trustees meet four to five times a year to provide strategic guidance Tuesday 19 August Sunday 5 October and ensure the highest standards North East Regional Group W Surrey & W Sussex Homeopathic Group of governance for the charity. Case discussions – bring your interesting or Short case discussions around dermatology. difficult cases. An informal meeting open to all healthcare Meetings are held during the day The Punch Bowl, Oakwood Hill, nr Ockley, professionals at all levels of experience. at our office in Luton (travel Surrey 8.00-10.00pm Ramada Parkway Hotel (bar area), expenses will be reimbursed but • Charles Forsyth on 01737 226338 (office), Otley Road, Adel, Leeds LS16 8AG 01737 248605 (home), 07802 293006 • Jane Greenwood on 01484 664758 or trustees are not paid). (mobile) or [email protected] 07980 330815 or at [email protected] Tuesday 16 September or Jutta Prekow on 0113 203 7329. We are keen to have a patient W Surrey & W Sussex Homeopathic Group representative on Council. Penny Edwards – more on minerals. Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 October Do you have any patients who The Punch Bowl, Oakwood Hill, nr Ockley, British Homeopathic Congress would be interested in this role? Surrey 8.00-10.00pm Barceló Majestic Hotel, Harowgate • Charles Forsyth on 01737 226338 (office), See enclosed brochure for further details. 01737 248605 (home), 07802 293006 The second vacancy requires a (mobile) or [email protected] Tuesday 21 October W Surrey & W Sussex Homeopathic Group finance background. This trustee Saturday 20 September John Morgan – Imponderables. will also be a member of the Bristol masterclass The Punch Bowl, Oakwood Hill, nr Ockley, finance sub-committee, which With Liz Thompson. Further details Surrey 8.00-10.00pm to be confirmed. • Charles Forsyth on 01737 226338 (office), advises the Council on financial Penny Brohn Centre, Chapel Pill Lane, 01737 248605 (home), matters, including audit and 07802 293006 (mobile) Pill, Bristol BS20 0HH investments. Ideally this person 9.30am-4.00pm or [email protected] • Caroline Mawer on 0117 946 6087 or will have working knowledge of [email protected] Looking further ahead: finance and be familiar with the charity SORP. Wednesday 1 October Saturday 7 February 2009 West of Scotland Group Faculty of Homeopathy CPD Seminar, Subject: tba Oxford Seminar Room, Glasgow Homeopathic Skin diseases in animals Hospital, 7.30pm with Peter Gregory • Tom Whitmarsh on 0141 211 1623 or Further details to be confirmed in due If you are interested in [email protected] course. volunteering or you have a patient or patients who If you are organising an event and would like it to be you think would fit the bill, included in future listings, please contact please contact Cristal Sumner on 0870 444 3949 or at Sarah Buckingham at [email protected] [email protected]

19 •• contacts

Who to contact at the Faculty

•• staff ● Sarah Buckingham – Publications and ● Cristal Sumner – Acting Chief Executive: Communications Officer: [email protected] [email protected] 0870 444 3949 0870 444 3957 ● Sam Weaver – PA to Cristal Sumner: [email protected] ● Hilary Clark – Head of Education and Training: 0870 444 3945 [email protected] 0870 444 3956 ● Margaret White – Financial Controller (part-time): [email protected] ● Robert Mathie – Research Development Adviser: 0870 444 3953 [email protected] 0870 444 3958 ● Jacqui Woolsey – Receptionist/ Information Assistant: [email protected] ● Lisa Peacock – Exams Administrator: 0870 444 3950 [email protected] 0870 444 3951 Faculty of Homeopathy, Hahnemann House 29 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE ● Tracey Rignall – Membership Officer: Tel: 0870 444 3955 • Fax: 0870 444 3960 [email protected] Email: [email protected] 0870 444 3954 www.trusthomeopathy.org/faculty

•• faculty council

● Peter Darby, Dental Dean: ● Lee Kayne, Pharmacy Dean: [email protected] [email protected]

● ● Christopher Day, Veterinary Dean: Tariq Khan, Podiatry Dean: [email protected] [email protected]

● Bob Leckridge, Promotion Committee Convener: ● Patricia Donnachie, Nursing Dean: [email protected] [email protected] ● Tim Robinson, Members’ Committee Convener: ● Sara Eames, President: [email protected] [email protected] ● Helmut Roniger, NHS Secondary Care ● Julie Geraghty, Vice-President: Representative: [email protected] [email protected]

● John Saxton, Immediate Past-President: ● Jonathan Hardy, Independent Practice [email protected] Representative: [email protected] ● Raymond Sevar, Dean: [email protected] ● Graham Jagger, NHS Primary Care Representative: ● Andrew Sikorski, Treasurer: [email protected] [email protected]

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