Bringing Classical and Contemporary Homoeopathy Together

ISSN: 9070-6038 Vol. 49, No. 5, August 2023

Alcoholism And Addictions: Role Of Homoeopathy

• Role of Homoeopathy In Alcoholism
• Alcoholism and Addiction Treatment with Homeopathy: A Comprehensive
Guide
2 | The Homoeopathic Heritage May 2023
 Vol. 49, No. 5, August 2023,
Pages: 108

REVIEWERS Dr P. K. Sudhir
CHIEF EDITOR
Dr Ashish Indani Dr Rajat Chattopadhyay
Dr Farokh J. Master Dr Clare Relton Roberto Petrucci
MANAGING EDITOR Dr Chaturbhuja Nayak Dr Sanjay Sehgal
Dr Rashi Prakash Dr Eswara Das Dr Subhas Singh
Francis Treuherz Dr Subrata Kumar Banerjea
IN HOUSE EDITOR
Dr Kamal Sethi Dr Tarkeshwar Jain
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ASSOCIATE EDITORS Dr Raj Kumar Manchanda Dr Yogesh Sehgal
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August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 3

 CO N TEN T S

Conquer Alcohol Addiction With Alcoholism And Addiction: What is

EDITORIAL Homoeopathy the Role of Homoeopathy?
Dr Rashi Prakash 5 Dr. Puja S. Dabhi 19 Dr. Devika Chaturvedi, Dr. Ram Prasad Yadav, Dr.
Zubair Ali Khan 68
EDITOR’S DESK
Resolving The Complications of
Alcoholism & Addictions : Role of Addiction By Homeopathy SPECIAL SECTION
Homoeopathy
Dr. Dimple Soni 24
Homoeopathic Drug Proving on Sick:
Dr. Rajat Chattopadhyay 7
First Step Towards A Model
The Road to Recovery- Understanding Dr Manpreet Kaur, Dr S M Singh, Dr Pankaj
STALWARTS' EXPEDITION Aggarwal, Dr Vandana Gambhir, Dr Chaturbhuja
Alcoholism and Addiction and The
Nayak 57
Role of Homoeopathy
Dr. Richard Hughes
A Homoeopath of Different Deepanshi Dhama 29
Conviction
Role of Homoeopathy In Alcoholism CASE STUDY
Dr. Subhas Singh, Dr. Niharika Shaw, Dr. Dinesh
Sura, Dr. Vignesh K.Shaw, Dr Dinesh Sura 8 Dr. Shwetha Shree 33
Urethral Stricture And Its
Alcoholism and Addiction Treatment Management with Homoeopathic
COLUMN: IN ITALICS with Homeopathy: A Comprehensive Medicines
Guide Dr. Jaykumar Chandarana, Dr. Vaibhav Shah 61
My Journey in Homeopathy
Cadmium: A Case of Bell’s Palsy Dr Shreya K Mehta 38

Francis Treuherz 32 Alcoholism and Addiction: Role of BOOK REVIEW

Homoeopathy
Gentle Medicine By Dr. Joachim-
SUBJECTIVE Dr Khatoon N, Dr Padhy P, Dr Mondal R 42
F. Gratz
Dr kavita Chandak 74
Alcoholism & Homeopathy
Action of Avena Sativa on Substance
Use Disorders Dr. Romal Padsumbiya 47

Dr. Himangsu Hait, Dr. Rayba Khatoon, Dr. Alcoholism And Addiction: Role of
Sumanta Kamila, Dr. Sanjay Sarkar 10 Homoeopathy
Effects of Alcohol on Our Body and Its Dr. Urvashi Dwivedi, Dr. Varnika Prashad 53
Homoeopathic Management
Dr. Ashok Yadav, Dr. Virendra Chauhan, Dr.
Bhavneet Kaur 15

4 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Editorial

Dear Readers,

The world of today witnesses the metamorphosis of recreational use of alcohol and other psychoac-
tive substances into a complete dependence. Declining age-incidence of alcohol and substance use dis-
orders is a reflection of the proportionately plummeting social, emotional and psychological health of
mankind. With a steep incline in the cases of alcohol and drug abuse, and the escalation in the global
rate of direct or indirect mortality from alcoholism and drugs, it is imperative for us to know, under-
stand and thoroughly grasp the potential that homoeopathy has in managing addiction, alcoholism,
and their symptoms.

The world of today witnesses the metamorphosis disability-adjusted life years (DALYs)”.
of recreational use of alcohol and other psycho-
active substances into a complete dependence. While these figures reflect the global pattern, the
Declining age-incidence of alcohol and substance Press Information Bureau, India released a note on
use disorders is a reflection of the proportionately the 19th of July 2022. It stated-
plummeting social, emotional and psychological “There has been a change in the pattern of sub-
health of mankind. stance abuse as reflected in the National survey on
The WHO writes in its report on global statistics on Extent, Pattern and Trends of Substance Use done
alcoholism- in 2004, and in the Comprehensive National Sur-
vey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in In-
• “Worldwide, 3 million deaths every year result dia conducted in 2018.
from harmful use of alcohol. This represents As per the Comprehensive National Survey on Ex-
5.3% of all deaths. tent and Pattern of Substance Use in India conduct-
• Overall, 5.1% of the global burden of disease and ed in 2018, the details of drug abuse are as under:
injury is attributable to alcohol, as measured in

Sl. Name of the Sub- Estimated no. of users Estimated no. of users
stance (age 10-17 years) (age 18-75 years)

1. Alcohol 30,00,000 15,01,16,000

2. Cannabis 20,00,000 2,90,18,000

3. Opioids 40,00,000 1,86,44,000

4. Sedatives 20,00,000 1,05,80,000

5. Inhalants 30,00,000 51,25,000

6. Cocaine 2,00,000 9,40,000

7. Amphetamines Type 4,00,000 15,47,000

Stimulants (ATS)
8. Hallucinogens 2,00,000 11,01,000

The DSM 5 is the latest version of DSM which lays down using it for longer than you’re meant to.
11 criteria for identifying or classifying substance or
2. Trying to cut down or stop using the substance
alcohol use as addiction. These are-
but being unable to.
1. Using more of a substance than intended or 3. Experiencing intense cravings or urges to use

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 5

Editorial
the substance. studies and research have shown that homeopathy has
4. Needing more of the substance to get the been successful in treating and in a large chunk of cases
desired effect — also called tolerance. efficiently managing the symptoms of addiction as well
as withdrawal be it of alcohol or other dependence-
5. Developing withdrawal symptoms when not
producing drugs.
using the substance.
6. Spending more time getting and using drugs A Quick Word on Issue Content
and recovering from substance use.
This issue of The Homoeopathic Heritage is dedicated to
7. Neglecting responsibilities at home, work or
‘Alcoholism and Addictions: The Role of Homoeopathy’.
school because of substance use.
The aim behind releasing an issue on this topic was to
8. Continuing to use it even when it causes acquaint our readers with the efficacy of homoeopathy
relationship problems. in dealing with alcoholism and addictions of all sorts.
9. Giving up important or desirable social and With a steep incline in the cases of alcohol and drug
recreational activities due to substance use. abuse, and the escalation in the global rate of direct
10. Using substances in risky settings that put you or indirect mortality from alcoholism and drugs, it is
in danger. imperative for us to know, understand and thoroughly
11. Continuing to use despite the substance causes grasp the potential that homoeopathy has in managing
problems to your physical and mental health. addiction, alcoholism, and their symptoms.

This implies that the treatment or management of WIth a number of subjective articles by students and
addiction to any substance requires the medicine professionals, you will find in this issue, a column
to act on the mental sphere of the patient whereas called In Italics, by Dr. Francis Treuherz, esteemed
the management of the symptoms of addiction or author of ‘My Journey in Homeopathy.. Much Ado
withdrawal of a substance may be done on the physical, About Nothing’. The issue also features a section called
mental, psychological, social or emotional plane Stalwarts’ Expedition by Dr. Subhas Singh, Director,
depending upon the area affected. National Institute of Homoeopathy, Kolkata, Editor’s
Desk by Dr. Rajat Chattopadhyay and a book review of
At this point, it is imperative to recall the dictum that Gentle Medicine authored by Dr. Joachim F. Gratz by
Homeopathy treats patients and not diseases. Therefore Dr. Kavita Chandak, esteemed LMHI 2023 speaker and
homeopathy seems to be the best approach when it author of the much celebrated book Healing Women
comes to dealing with addiction. As per the norm, with Homeopathy. Additionally, a special section in
deeper the disease is seated, higher the potency used the issue is dedicated to an insightful article on Drug
and more physical the symptoms, lower the potencies. Proving.
Homeopathy has a number of medicines each with a
Dr Rashi Prakash
wide spectrum of potencies which can be used to tackle
symptoms on both physical and mental planes. Multiple
[email protected]

Note: The Homoeopathic Heritage is a peer-reviewed journal since January 2013. All articles arepeer-
reviewed by the in-house editorial team. Articles selected from each issue are sent for peer-review
by an external board of reviewers and marked with a ‘peer-reviewed’ stamp.For inclusion of articles
in the peer-review section, kindly send your articles 3-4 months in advance of the said month at
[email protected].

Call for papers for the upcoming issues:

Unbolt Yourself
Issue Topic Date
September 2023 Scope Of Homoeopathy In PCOS July 15, 2023
October 2023 Psychosomatic Diseases And Homoeopathy August 15, 2023
November 2023 Clinical Trials In Homoeopathy September 15, 2023

6 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Editor's Desk

Alcoholism & Addictions : Role of Homoeopathy

Dr. Rajat Chattopadhyay

In today’s society, alcoholism and addiction are of counselling process is also in progress,which is
the two terminologies the general people are very of utmost importance . The first step to tackle the
much familiar with . The management and treat- said cases is to develop doctor- patient bonding in
ment of alcoholism and addiction became a chal- which one physician has to take the role of a well-
lenging assignment to the present day physician . wisher of a patient as friend or guardian .
The Homoeopathic system of medicine perceives
There are a lot of medicines found in the materia
man from a holistic view with all environmental
medica and repertory under different medicine
and other factors as accessory circumstances which
heads and rubrics respectively. Anti-syphilitic
are now the trend of thought in epigenetics too.
medicines are indicated on many occasions but it
The constitution of individual, miasmatic dyscra-
should not be abused and can only be prescribed if
sia, susceptibility, idiosyncrasy and many other
“the totality “ of a case demands it . Medicines like
events are considered to be the most important un-
Aurum met, Syphilinum, Sulphur, sulphuric acid ,
derlying factors for the evolution of disease .
China, crotalus H , Lachesis, Nux Vom , Selenium
Homoeopathy can prove itself as an important are frequently indicated not only for alcoholism
therapeutic weapon to treat and manage alcohol- but also can be applicable to any type of drug ad-
ism and addiction with its holistic and dynamic ap- diction . In many situations only good counselling
proach . A detailed case taking with anamnesis of along with case taking maybe the choice of treat-
each individual case may open multiple events in ment where no medicine can be of use (moral rem-
materialistic and/or dynamic level to perceive the edy as per homoeopathic philosophy)
disease in each unique way .
There are no specific homoeopathic medicines
The polluting agent like psora and/or syphilis in neither for alcoholism nor for addiction rather the
dynamic level can make man susceptible to the homoeopathic physician may remain specifically
said disease states . Sycosis is another agent that focused to
makes the condition more complicated. So with the
exhaustive and thorough case taking the homoeo- • Detailed case taking
pathic physician will have to bring out the follow- • Searching out the anamnesis for evolution of
ing points in each case: disease
• Framing the totality with miasmatic dominance
• Anamnesis- The significant medical and/or past
• Making evaluation of symptoms to prepare
event of life which can be the most influential
repertorial totality
point to frame “the totality “ in each case.
• Doing accurate repertorization which may vary
• Miasmatic dyscrasia- from past and family
depending on each case
history, specially in cases of dipsomania
(hereditary tendency to take alcohol /addiction) • Consulting materia medica
[NB: The author perceives that the term dipsoma- • Refreshing the knowledge of homoeopathic
nia although refers to alcohol but in present day it philosophy to prescribe “ the similimum”
may be equally applicable to drug addiction ] (indicated remedy in each case )

• To identify the multiple factors under accessory A judicial use of Homoeopathy in alcoholism and
circumstances like familial , socio-economical addiction may prove itself as a boon to society for
,environmental, political , sexual ,etc as per making an addiction free nation in (w)holistic view
individual cases for which there should not be any .
fixed limited factors to enquire . Only a healthy nation can prosper , build and pro-
The advantage of the homoeopathic system of med- liferate to a better future.
icine is that with the initiation of case taking, a type

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 7

 Stalwarts’ Expedition

Dr. Richard Hughes

A Homoeopath of Different Conviction
Dr. Subhas Singh, Dr. Niharika Shaw, Dr. Dinesh Sura, Dr. Vignesh K.

Progress and development of Homoeopathy establishing Homoeopathy against all odds but
can be attributed to different stalwarts who he challenged some strong and basic concepts of
enriched it with their knowledge, experiences and Homoeopathy like the psora theory, theory of
experiments. One such stalwart of Homoeopathy chronic disease, theory of vital force and even drug
was Dr. Richard Hughes. Dr. Richard Hughes was dynamization. He wrote vividly about Hahnemann
born on 20th August, 1836 in London, England to in his book ‘Hahnemann as a Medical Philosopher’ in
Mr. Philip Hughes and Mrs. Emily Hughes. A firm 1881.
believer of Law of Similia treatment, Hughes always
tried to bring a change in Homoeopathy. He was Hughes - The Researcher
an allopath who later converted to Homoeopathy.
Richard Hughes was very much influenced
He always persuaded his allopathic acquaintances
by 19th century discoveries of cellular science.
to convert to Homoeopathy and join him in
Hughes wanted to introduce the revolutionary
developing and propagating Homoeopathy. Many
scientific discoveries of his time to Homoeopathy.
times, he was misunderstood especially regarding
His efforts in this direction can be seen in his very
his views on the practice of Homoeopathy. Though
first work ‹A Manual of Pharmacodynamics›. It was
he had his differences, he was just a dedicated
published in 1867 as the first part of the ‹Manual
and hardworking homoeopath. His belief and
of Homoeopathic Practice for students and beginners.›
dedication to Homoeopathy did not falter till his
He also encouraged conducting experiments on
last breath and he continued to spread and enrich
animals in this book. He continued to enrich each
Homoeopathy in every possible way he could.
of its subsequent editions with recent research and
A learned physician development that took place in the field of drugs
used in Homoeopathy.
Richard Hughes was a great learner and this is
evident by his much-earned degrees like M.R.C.S. Hughes was requested by the British Homoeopathic
from England and L.R.C.P. from Edinburgh, Society to deliver a course of lectures in London on
Scotland. He took his M.D degree from American Materia Medica and Therapeutics in 1875. These
College in 1860 but later converted to homoeopathy delivered lectures became the revised content
and started practicing homoeopathy at Brighton for its Third Edition. In 1877, he was called upon
Homoeopathic Dispensary. He lived in Brighton by London School of Homoeopathy to head the
with his wife Sarah and his six children. department of Materia Medica and Therapeutics.
These lectures became the new revised and
While practicing homoeopathy, Hughes realized augmented content of the fourth and final edition
there are many newer practically important of Manual of Pharmacodynamics. Amidst all this, in
aspects which should be incorporated in 1876, he also became the Permanent Secretary of the
Homoeopathy. Thus, he tried to introduce a new “International Congress of Homoeopathy Physicians,
field in homoeopathy based on more research and Philadelphia”.
pathology. Hughes’s philosophies were clear and
distinct. He laid importance on establishing the Hughes published ‹A Cyclopaedia of Drug
relationship between disease pathology and drug Pathogenesis› in 1887 in which he removed all the
pathogenesis. He had great respect for Master symptoms of drug proving above 6C potency. He
Samuel Hahnemann for his relentless efforts for even gave less importance to clinical symptoms

8 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Stalwarts’ Expedition
which were also excluded from his work. He journal “The British Journal of Homoeopathy” in
highly praised the symptoms obtained by drug 1889. He assisted Dr. T. F. Allen in preparing 10
proving on healthy human beings. He appreciated volumes of ‘Encyclopaedia of Pure Materia Medica’
Hahnemann for bringing drug proving into medical which was published in 1874. He also extended
use after Von Haller. Hughes referred to symptoms his great help to Dr. R. E. Dudgeon in translating
of Materia Medica Pura and Chronic Diseases in his Samuel Hahnemann’s ‘Materia Medica Pura’ into
book but did not include their symptoms because English. Hughes’s last work was ‘The principle
of lack of prover’s daybooks. and Practice of Homoeopathy’ which was published
posthumously in 1902. Dudgeon took the
Hughes - The homoeopath responsibility of publishing the book and wrote
Foreword for the book. First fourteen lectures of
Richard Hughes had a great reputation among
the book are dedicated to origin and development
Homoeopaths despite disagreeing on many of the
of Homoeopathy followed by Homoeopathic
principles of Homoeopathy. Hughes was a low
treatments of all diseases in nosological terms.
potency prescriber. His frequently used potency
Hughes has enriched it with experience of his own
was 3X because of which he was also called as 3Xer or
medical practice along with experiences of other
a half homoeopath. Dr. Hughes at one point of time
physicians other than Homoeopath also, which
was supposedly so powerful that it was believed
seemed to him of any Homoeopathic importance.
that it is difficult to sustain in Homoeopathy if
you are not on good terms with Hughes. One
physician who faced this discrimination was Dr. CONCLUSION
J C Burnett. Dr. J H Clarke who was the closest
disciple of Richard Hughes, also left his side and Homoeopathy gets defame for lack of development
went on to join the Anti-Hughes group of Burnett, in fundamental science, in-vitro and in-vivo
Cooper and Skinner. But Richard Hughes’s work research. Dr. Richard Hughes sensed this quite
and contribution to Homoeopathy was beyond before seeing the rapid development taking place
such pettifoggery. in field of science in late 19th century. If he would
have been successful in igniting the minds of
Great need for change in the way Materia Medica Homoeopaths for research in Homoeopathy then
was taught was felt and addressed by Dr. Yeldham today Homoeopathy would have been richer in
at British Homoeopathic Congress in 1880. In 1884, a research fields also along with clinical enrichment.
conference was held which was attended by Richard Richard Hughes was one amongst the few who
Hughes on request of the British Homoeopathic witnessed the reburial of Hahnemann’s body at
Society. At the conclusion of the conference, a set Père Lachaise Cemetery in 1898. Hughes passed at
of 9 instructions were adopted by the American 66 years of age on 9 April, 1902.
Institute of Homoeopathy and subsequently by the
British Homoeopathic Society for the formation
of ‘Cyclopaedia of Drug Pathogenesy’. Several ABOUT THE AUTHORS
works of Homoeopaths across the world were 1. Dr Subhas Singh, Director, National Institute
considered and they all were acknowledged in all of Homoeopathy, Kolkata
the 4 volumes of the work. The book was intended 2. Dr Dinesh Sura, PGT, National Institute of
mainly for students of Homoeopathic Materia Homoeopathy, Kolkata
Medica. It provided compilation and reference to
3. Dr Vignesh Kumar S., PGT, National Institute
different kinds of toxicological and research work
of Homoeopathy, Kolkata
in relation to the drugs used in Homoeopathy.
4. Dr Niharika Shaw, PGT, National Institute of
Hughes was appointed as the editor of eminent Homoeopathy, Kolkata

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 9

 Subjective

Action of Avena Sativa on Substance

Use Disorders In Italics
Dr. Himangsu Hait, Dr. Rayba Khatoon, Dr. Sumanta Kamila, Dr. Sanjay Sarkar

ABSTRACT
People are highly addicted to harmful substances such as alcohol, tobacco, opium and other illicit drugs. The
following article focuses on a homoeopathic drug called Avena Sativa which has many pharmacological effects
such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neurological, cardiovascular and many other biological activities. Avena
Sativa is highly effective in cigarette smoking. This paper will mainly highlight its anti-oxidative properties and
effects on opiate addicts’ group.

Keywords: Substance use disorders, Avena Sativa, Homoeopathy, opiate addicts, antioxidant

Abbreviation: Substance use disorders (SUD), World Health Organization (WHO), Avenanthramide
(Avn), Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM), Reactive oxygen species (ROS),

INTRODUCTION suicide. Research has shed light onto mechanisms

underlying the critical components of addiction

S ubstance use disorder (SUD) refers to

uncontrolled use of harmful substances. People
with SUD have an intense focus on using a certain
and relapse: reinforcement and reward, tolerance,
withdrawal, negative affect, craving, and stress
sensitization. In addition, clinical research has
substance such as tobacco, alcohol, or some illicit been instrumental in developing an evidence
drugs. People are highly addicted to such harmful base for the use of pharmacological agents in
substances. [1] Data from the 2018 National the treatment of substance use disorders, which,
Survey on Drug Use and Health [2] suggest that, in combination with psychosocial approaches,
over the preceding year, 20.3 million people can provide effective treatments. Mortality from
aged 12 or older had substance use disorders, substance use disorders has been well documented
and 14.8 million of these cases were attributed during the current drug overdose crisis in the
to alcohol. When considering other substances, United States [3] and in numerous studies showing
the report estimated that 4.4 million individuals elevated death rates due to tobacco, alcohol, and
had a marijuana use disorder and that 2 million other drugs [4,5,6]
people suffered from an opiate use disorder. In
part related to stress, substance use disorders Effects of Substance Use
are highly comorbid with other psychiatric All these substances directly activate the brain’s
illnesses: 9.2 million adults were estimated reward system and produce feelings of pleasure.
to have a 1-year prevalence of both a mental Initially people may crave the substances. They
illness and at least one substance use disorder. may even neglect normal activities. These sub-
The survey estimated that over the preceding stances have direct physiologic effects, including
month, 37.2% of individuals with serious mental intoxication, withdrawal and substance-induced
illnesses were cigarette smokers, compared with mental health disorders. Intoxication impairs the
16.3% of individuals without mental illnesses. person’s mental function and judgement and may
Substance use frequently accompanies suicide alter mood. Many drugs impair physical func-
and suicide attempts, and substance use disorders tioning and coordination. Withdrawal refers to
are associated with a long-term increased risk of symptoms that develop when people stop taking

10 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
a substance which sometimes may be serious or rettes and at the end of the trial it was 74. Five had
even life threatening. Substance-induced mental stopped smoking, seven had reduced it to less
health disorders are mental changes produced by than 50 % and in one no change had occurred. In
substance use or withdrawal that resemble psy- the placebo group the total daily consumption at
chiatric disorders such as depression, psychosis, the start was 215, at the end it was 217. Smoking
or anxiety. [7] had been stopped by none, reduced to above 50%
by six and increased by three; four reported no
Description of Avena Sativa change. In the drug group various degrees of loss
of craving for cigarettes were reported. The drug
Avena Sativa, which also has common names like
seems to reduce the number of cigarettes smoked
Oat, Shofan, Doser, Oats and Avoine, Hafer, Kher-
per day, along with diminished craving for smok-
tal, etc., is a rich source of protein, minerals, lipids,
ing. Moreover, the reduction in smoking seems to
β-glucan, avenanthramides, indole alkaloids, fla-
continue even 2 months after the termination of
vonoids, triterpenoidsaponins, lipids, and sterols.
the drug. The drug has never been used in deal-
It shows many pharmacological effects including
ing with the problem of smoking and, as this was
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, dermatological,
the first instance of its use in smokers, its role and
immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, gastrointesti-
significance are worthy of further investigation.[9]
nal, hypolipidemic, neurological, cardiovascular
and many other biological activities. Fresh milky Oxidants in addicts and antioxidant properties
seeds are used as medicine. The mature seed is of Avena sativa
eaten as food. It is used as cardiac and nerve ton-
ic, for spermatorrhoea, palpitation, sleeplessness, Drug addiction is a social problem worldwide
antispasmodic, for diarrhoea, dysentery, and coli- nowadays. According to the WHO, more than 15
tis. It was also used as thymoleptic, antidepres- million people are addicted to opiate. [10] Opium
sant and externally as emollient. [8] contains more than 40 types of alkaloids, such
as morphine, codeine and thebaine, and over 70
Effect of Avena Sativa on Cigarette Smoking other components including sugars and organic
acids.[11] Opiate abuse is related to oxidative stress
In 1967, while using an alcoholic extract of Avena
that is evaluated separately through oxidants and
Sativa on a group of opium addicts, several pa-
antioxidants. [12] Free radicals or radical generat-
tients reported a loss of interest in smoking. The
ing agents cause oxidative stress, which over-
drug is listed in the United States Dispensatory
whelm natural radical blocking or scavenging
and National Formulary. The active drug was
mechanisms. [13] Oxidative stress increases the
an extract of healthy, fresh plant Avena Sativa se-
production of free radicals and reactive oxygen
lected just before harvest. 1.5 parts of the crushed
species (ROS) and decreases antioxidant capacity.
whole plant by weight in 5 parts by volume of [14]
Some studies have revealed that opium smok-
90% ethyl- alcohol, kept at room temperature
ers had a low to moderate grade of inflammation,
with frequent agitation for 72 hour and then fil-
which was determined by an increase in acute
tered. Twenty-six cigarette smokers including
phase proteins. [15]
healthy volunteers and chronic patients in the
chest wards of Ruchill Hospital Glasgow, includ- Avena Sativa contains distinct molecular compo-
ing tuberculous patients, participated in the trial. nents with high antioxidant activity, it is a unique
The total duration of their smoking and the aver- source of avenanthramides, phenolic amides con-
age number of cigarettes smoked per day in the taining anthranilic acid and hydroxycinnamic
preceding six months were recorded. By random acid moieties, and endowed with major beneficial
allocation, thirteen patients received the drugs health properties because of their antioxidant, an-
and the others received placebo for 28 days. Each ti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative effects. The
of them was kept in close observation. No patient antioxidant activity of Avena Sativa components
was taking any other kind of drugs which could was initially suggested by the evidence that oat
affect smoking. In the drug group the total daily flour could be used as a food preservative from
consumption by thirteen patients was 254 ciga- oxidative deterioration due to its ability in retard-

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 11

Subjective
ing the initial peroxide formation and rancidity. [16] disease, as evaluated with a cellular antioxidant
[17]
The antioxidant properties of oat extracts and assay. [26] It is generally accepted that antioxidants
their components, including avenanthramides, exert health-promoting effects by scavenging in-
were eventually demonstrated directly by assay- tracellular ROS. Both natural, synthetic, and re-
ing purified compounds from different oat culti- combinant avenanthramides have been shown
vars. [18] [19] In particular, Emmons and colleagues to exhibit strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,
examined oat milling fractions to determine their and antiproliferative activities.
potential as dietary antioxidants, showing that
three avenanthramide isoforms (Avn-A, Avn-C, Pharmacology
and Avn-K) were among the most important oat
The pharmacology of Avena sativa has been inves-
metabolites endowed with antioxidant activity.
tigated in laboratory animals following a report
[20]
Avn-C supplementation in the diet of rats at a
that tincture of Avena sativa reduced the craying
concentration of 0.1 g/kg was effective in reduc-
for cigarettes in man. The aqueous extract pre-
ing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the
pared from the tincture did not affect the seizure
soleus muscle. Moreover, Avn-C-fed rats had
threshold to bemegride or nicotine or the sleeping
higher superoxide dismutase activity in the vas-
time induced by barbitonesodium. [27]
tus lateralis muscle, liver, and kidney, and higher
glutathione peroxidase activity in the heart and Cardiovascular effect of Avena Sativa
DVL, compared to control rats. In addition, Avn-
C supplementation attenuated the increased ROS In addition to its cholesterol lowering effect, it
production in the soleus and lipid peroxidation improved the blood pressure when consumed
in the heart induced by exercise. [21] The bioavail- with vitamin C, improved endothelial function
ability and antioxidant action of major Avns, in- and exerted angiotensine converting enzyme in-
cluding Avn-A, Avn-B, and Avn-C, was also in- hibition. beta glucan from oats has been shown to
vestigated in humans. t doses of 0.5 and 1.0 g of decrease hypertension. Avenanthramide is an oat
an Avn-enriched mixture (AEM), Avns reached polyphenol that has been shown to enhance pro-
the maximum peak in plasma at 1.5 and 2.3 h, re- duction of nitric oxide, a potent vasodilator, and
spectively. Avn-A and Avn-B bioavailability was to inhibit thickening of vascular smooth muscle.
18- and 5-fold higher in humans than in ham- Both actions are preventative for developing of
sters, respectively. Interestingly, consumption of atherosclerosis. [28]
Avn-enriched oat extracts significantly increased
the plasma concentration of reduced glutathione Effects of Avena Sativa on Central nervous Sys-
(GSH), the body’s master antioxidant. Specifi- tem
cally, after consumption of 0.1 g of AEM, plasma
GSH levels increased 21% from baseline at 15 min, An extract of Avena Sativa was tested in rats for its
without apparent adverse side effects. [22] More- behavioural effects after chronic oral administra-
over, Avn-rich extract from oat was also reported tion via extract- admixed food. The low dose led
to possess an effective antioxidant activity against to an improvement of active stress response, an
D-galactose-induced oxidative stress. [23] Further- enhancement of shock avoidance learning and an
more, it was demonstrated that Avns, including increased synchrony in social behavior. [29] Dietary
Avn-A, significantly increased heme oxygenase-1 oat β-glucan enhanced the endurance capacity of
(HO-1) expression in HK-2 cells in both dose- and rats and facilitated their recovery from stress and
time-dependent manners, showing that this ef- fatigue.[30] Avena sativa improved overall mental
fect involved ROS production and Nrf2 nuclear fitness and supported cognitive performance in
translocation. [24] [25] Avn analogs produced in re- stressful situations. Avena sativa has been shown
combinant yeast, including YAvn I and YAvn II, to positively affect the activity of brain enzymes
were originally shown to have strong antioxidant closely related to mental health and cognitive
activity when tested in an ABTS•+ radical quench- function in vitro. Additionally, preclinical and
ing assay, as well as the capacity to reduce intra- clinical studies have confirmed that Avena sativa
cellular ROS levels in a cellular model of CCM specifically interacted with brain structures and
neurotransmitters implicated in cognition, mem-

12 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
ory and motivation. Avena sativa boasted a dual 4. US Department of Health and Human Services. Smoking
Cessation: A Report of the Surgeon General. Atlanta: US
activity profile on monoamino oxidase-B (MAO- Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease
B) and phosphodiestrase 4 (PDE4) thus displayed Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease
Prevention and Health Promotion, Office on Smoking and Health;
in its ability to meditate a strengthening and bal- 2020. Available at: [URL]. Accessed May 17, 2023.
ancing effect on the brain and mind.[31] 5. Esser MB, Sherk A, Liu Y, et al. Deaths and years of potential life
lost from excessive alcohol use: United States, 2011–2015. MMWR
Conclusion: Smoking is the chief avoidable cause Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2020;69:1428–1433. Crossref, Medline,
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6. Scott CK, Dennis ML, Laudet A, et al. Surviving drug addiction:
Tobacco kills more than 8 million people each the effect of treatment and abstinence on mortality. Am J Public
year. More than 7 million of those deaths are the Health. 2011;101:737–744. Crossref, Medline, Google Scholar.
result of direct tobacco use while around 1.2 mil- 7. Merck Manual. Substance Use Disorders. Merck Manual.
Accessed May 17, 2023. Available at: https://www.msdmanuals.
lion are the result of non-smokers being exposed com/en-in/home/mental-health-disorders/substance-related-
to second-hand smoke [32]. To address the tobac- disorders/substance-use-disorders.
co epidemic, WHO Member States adopted the 8. Khare CP. Indian medicinal plants: An illustrated dictionary.
Springer Science and Business Media, LLC; 2007:74.
WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Con-
9. Anand C. Effect of Avena sativa on Cigarette Smoking.
trol (WHO FCTC) in 2003. Currently 182 coun- Nature. 1971 Aug 13;233(5321):496. Available from: https://doi.
tries have ratified this treaty. Orthodox medical org/10.1038/233496a0
practitioners offer Nicotine Replacement Therapy 10. Soykut B, Eken A, Erdem O, Akay C, Aydin A, Cetin MK, et al.
Oxidative stress enzyme status and frequency of micronuclei in
(NRT) and anti-depressant drugs, except in spe- heroin addicts in Turkey. Toxicol Mech Methods. 2013;23(9):684-
cial circumstances where they use multiple ses- 8.
sions of problem solving and social support coun- 11. Rajabizade G, RamezaniMohammad A, ShakibiMohammad R.
selling, to those individuals who want to give Prevalence of Opium Addiction in Iranian Drivers 2001-2003. J
Med Sci (Faisalabad). 2004;4(3):210-3.
up smoking. FDA classifies NRT therapies as a 12. Kovatsi L, Njau S, Nikolaou K, Topouridou K, Papamitsou T,
Pregnancy Category “C” or “D” developmental Koliakos G. Evaluation of prooxidant-antioxidant balance in
hazard. Category D classification indicates “stud- chronic heroin users in a single assay: an identification criterion
for antioxidant supplementation. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse.
ies, adequate well-controlled or observational, in 2010;36(4):228-232.
pregnant women have demonstrated a risk to the 13. Block G, Dietrich M, Norkus EP, Morrow JD, Hudes M, Caan B, et
fetus” [33]. Furthermore, potential serious adverse al. Factors associated with oxidative stress in human populations.
Am J Epidemiol. 2002;156(3):274-285.
health effects with pharmaceutical NRT product
14. Smith A, Johnson B. Oxidative stress increases the production of
use are suggested based on government warn- free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreases
ing statements for such products. These include antioxidant capacity. Oxid Biol. 2020;8(3):150-170.
warnings against potential major adverse effects. 15. Ghazavi A, Mosayebi G, Solhi H, Rafiei M, Moazzeni SM. Serum
markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in chronic opium
[34]
So in such circumstances if we homoeopaths (Taryak) smokers. Immunol Lett. 2013; 153 (1-2) : 22 -6.
can help the patients with the harmless rapid and 16. Lowen L., Anderson L., Harrison R. W. Cereal flours as
gentle approach to recover their health and to quit antioxidants for fishery products. Industrial & Engineering
Chemistry. 1937;29(2):151–156. doi: 10.1021/ie50326a006.
the smoking as well nothing can be more satisfy-
17. Peters F. N. Oat flour as an antioxidant. Industrial & Engineering
ing than that. Chemistry. 1937;29(2):146–151. doi: 10.1021/ie50326a005.
18. Dimberg L. H., Theander O., Lingnert H. Avenanthramides—a group of
phenolic antioxidants in oats. Cereal Chemistry. 1993;70(6):637–641.
REFERENCE 19. Emmons C. L., Peterson D. M., Paul G. L. Antioxidant capacity of oat
(Avena sativa L.) extracts. 2. In vitro antioxidant activity and contents
1. American Psychiatric Association. What Is a Substance Use
of phenolic and tocol antioxidants. Journal of Agricultural and Food
Disorder? American Psychiatric Association. Accessed May 17,
Chemistry. 1999;47(12):4894–4898. doi: 10.1021/jf990530i.
2023. Available at: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/
addiction-substance-use-disorders/what-is-a-substance-use- 20. Emmons C. L., Peterson D. M., Paul G. L. Antioxidant capacity of oat
disorder (Avena sativa L.) extracts. 2. In vitro antioxidant activity and contents
of phenolic and tocol antioxidants. Journal of Agricultural and Food
2. US Department of Health and Human Services: Substance Abuse
Chemistry. 1999;47(12):4894–4898. doi: 10.1021/jf990530i.
and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Behavioral
Health Statistics and Quality. National Survey on Drug Use and 21. Li Ji L., Lay D., Chung E., Fu Y., Peterson D. M. Effects of
Health 2018. Rockville, MD: SAMHSA; 2019. Available at: https:// avenanthramides on oxidant generation and antioxidant enzyme activity
www.samhsa.gov/data/nsduh/reports-detailed-tables-2018- in exercised rats. Nutrition Research. 2003;23(11):1579–1590. doi:
NSDUH. Accessed May 17, 2023. 10.1016/S0271-5317(03)00165-9.
3. Hedegaard H, Miniño AM, Warner M. Drug overdose deaths in 22. Oliver Chen C.-Y., Milbury P. E., William Collins F., Blumberg J. B.
the United States, 1999–2018. NCHS Data Brief. 2020;(356):1–8. Avenanthramides are bioavailable and have antioxidant activity in
Available at: [URL]. Accessed May 17, 2023. humans after acute consumption of an enriched mixture from oats.
The Journal of Nutrition. 2007;137(6):1375–1382. doi: 10.1093/

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 13

Subjective
jn/137.6.1375. 31. Vetvicka V, Dvorak B, Vetvickova J, Richter J, Krizan J, Sima PY, Vin JC.
23. Ren Y., Yang X., Niu X., Liu S., Ren G. Chemical characterization of Orally administered marine (1→3)-β-glucan phycarine stimulates both
the avenanthramide-rich extract from oat and its effect on D-galactose- humoral and cellular immunity. Int J Biol Macromol. 2007;40(4):291-
induced oxidative stress in mice. Journal of Agricultural and Food 298.
Chemistry. 2011;59(1):206–211. doi: 10.1021/jf103938e.
24. Mori H., Tanaka H., Kawada K., Nagai H., Koda A. Suppressive effects of ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Tranilast on pulmonary fibrosis and activation of alveolar macrophages
in mice treated with bleomycin—role of alveolar macrophages in the 1. Prof. (Dr.) Himangsu Hait, HOD, Practice
fibrosis. The Japanese Journal of Pharmacology. 1995;67(4):279–289.
doi: 10.1254/jjp.67.279.
of Medicine, The Calcutta Homoeopathic
25. Fu J., Zhu Y., Yerke A., et al. Oat avenanthramides induce heme
Medical College & Hospital. Kolkata- 09, WB.
oxygenase-1 expression via Nrf2-mediated signaling in HK-2 cells. (co- author)
Molecular Nutrition & Food Research. 2015;59(12):2471–2479. doi:
10.1002/mnfr.201500250. 2. Dr. Rayba Khatoon, BHMS (WBUHS). PG
26. Moglia A., Comino C., Lanteri S., et al. Production of novel antioxidative Scholar (Part-I), Department of Practice of
phenolic amides through heterologous expression of the plant’s Medicine of The Calcutta Homoeopathic
chlorogenic acid biosynthesis genes in yeast. Metabolic Engineering.
2010;12(3):223–232. doi: 10.1016/j.ymben.2009.11.003. Medical College & Hospital. Kolkata- 09, WB.
27. Connor J, Connor T, Marshall PB, Reid A, Turnbull MJ. The inhibition of (Correspondence author)
drug metabolism in the rat by a combination of polycyclic hydrocarbons.
J Pharm Pharmacol. 1975;27(2):92-8.
3. Dr. Sumanta Kamila, BHMS (WBUHS). PG
28. Maki KC, Galant R, Samuel P, Tesser J, Witchger MS, Ribaya-Mercado
Scholar (Part- II), Department of Practice
JD, Blumberg JB, Geohas J. Effects of consuming foods containing oat of Medicine of The Calcutta Homoeopathic
beta-glucan on blood pressure, carbohydrate metabolism and biomarkers Medical College & Hospital. Kolkata- 09, WB.
of oxidative stress in men and women with elevated blood pressure. Eur
J Clin Nutr. 2007;61(6):786-795. (co- author)
29. Schellekens C, Perrinjaquet-Moccetti T, Wullschleger C, Heyne A. 4. Dr. Sanjay Sarkar, BHMS(WBUHS). PG
An extract from wild green oat improves rat behavior. Phytother Res.
2009;23(10):1371-1377. Scholar (Part- II), Department of Practice
30. Xu C, Lv J, Lo YM, Cui SW, Hu X, Fan M. Effects of oat β-glucan of Medicine of The Calcutta Homoeopathic
on endurance exercise and its anti-fatigue properties in trained rats. Medical College & Hospital. Kolkata- 09, WB.
Carbohydr Polym. 2013;92(2):1159-1165.
(co- author)

14 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective

Effects of Alcohol on Our Body and Its

Homoeopathic Management
Dr. Ashok Yadav, Dr. Virendra Chauhan, Dr. Bhavneet Kaur

ABSTRACT
Alcohol consumption is increasing in almost every region of the world and thus the risk from its misuse is also at
pace. There is an urgent need to control this situation to reduce the burden from this major health hazard. Alco-
hol has its impact on almost every system of our body and also the cases of crime and violence are increasing.
Alcohol addiction is making it more tough to combat this situation. This article highlights the impact of alcohol
on our body and some homeopathic medicines to control alcoholism and its effects.

Keywords: : alcohol, alcoholism, alcohol addiction, alcohol use disorder, effects, homeopathic medicines

Abbreviations: ALD: Alcoholic Liver Disease; GERD: Gastro-esophageal reflux disease

INTRODUCTION consumption of a man with cirrhosis is

estimated to be 160 g/day for over 8 years.

A lcohol use was ranked 9th among the top 15

global risk factors in 2015 whereas in 1990
it was ranked 11th. This rise is probably due to
Liver damage is more likely to occur in
continuous drinking patterns. Excess alcohol
consumption leads to recurrent episodes of
falling prices of alcohol, increased availability pancreatitis and a risk for pancreatic cancer.
and cultural change fostering higher levels of Overuse of alcohol is also an important risk
consumption [1]Alcohol is consumed at least factor of oral cancer and gastric cancer. Alcohol
occasionally by most adults in most regions of relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter and
the world. Alcohol use is linked with increased may provoke symptoms of GERD. It is also
risk of accidents, workplace productivity losses, responsible for many cases of acute gastritis.
increased medical and mental health costs, and It is also a risk factor for drug induced hepatic
greater rates of crime and violence [2] Alcohol use fibrosis.
disorder is a chronic relapsing disorder which 2. Cardiovascular system: It is among the
is characterized by a compulsion to seek and triggering factors of palpitations produced by
take the alcohol with loss of control in limiting extrasystoles. It is also an important causative
alcohol intake and the emergence of a negative agent of atrial fibrillation. It contributes to
emotional state which reflects a motivational increased plasma triglycerides levels. It is
withdrawal syndrome, when access to the alcohol also associated with hypertension, dilated
is prevented.[3] cardiomyopathy. Maternal alcohol misuse is
associated with septal defects, and maternal
Effects Of Alcohol On Body: lupus erythematosus with congenital
complete heart block.
1. G.I.T.: It can cause vomiting. It is one of 3. Respiratory system: Alcohol is one of the
the most important causes of chronic liver predisposing factors of pneumonia. Klebsiella
disease. The risk threshold for developing pneumonia has a specific association with
ALD is variable but starts at 30 g/day of alcohol abuse and often presents with a
ethanol consumption. The average alcohol particularly severe bacteraemic illness. It

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 15

Subjective
is also an important predisposing factor of Are the Effects of Alcohol Different for Males &
snoring and apnea by relaxing the upper Females?
airway dilator muscles.
Effect of alcohol is different in males and females.
4. Alcoholic ketoacidosis: History of chronic
Females have more blood ethanol levels even af-
malnutrition and recent binge is usually
ter consuming the same amount of alcohol as men
found in cases of alcoholic ketoacidosis.
and thus incidence of ALD is higher in women.
5. Genitourinary system: It is one of the
important causes of erectile dysfunction with
intact libido. Excessive alcohol intake can be a
precipitating cause of acute urine retention in
patients of benign prostatic enlargement.
6. Endocrine system: Alcohol excess is the most
common cause of hypoglycemia in the UK and
it also has strong association with diabetes
mellitus.
7. Nutrition: Excessive alcohol intake can cause
hypomagnesemia through gut and renal
losses. Alcoholism is also an important risk
factor of chronic zinc deficiency. Nutritional
deficiencies caused due to excessive alcohol
intake leads to morbidity. Excessive alcohol
It may be related to reduced volume of alcohol
consumption can lead to obesity due to
distribution. [1] The transition from initial drug
excessive calories. They can also lose weight as
use to the development of AUD is also faster in
a consequence of self-neglect and poor dietary
females. Anxiety and depression is also present
intake. The risks of refeeding syndrome are
more in girls. Marked association between al-
greatest in those who are most malnourished,
cohol consumption and insomnia is also seen in
especially chronic alcoholics. They are at risk
females. During withdrawal, women with AUD
of vitamin B, C and D deficiency disorders.
report greater sleep disturbances and experience
8. Haemopoietic system: Excessive alcohol greater stress and cue-induced craving and re-
consumption is a cause of relative lapse. [4]
erythrocytosis, neutropenia
9. Musculoskeletal system: Alcohol excess Alcohol withdrawal : Symptoms of alcohol with-
can lead to an inflammatory myositis and drawal include anxiety disorders, panic, paranoid
atrophy of type 2 muscle fibers. Alcohol, delusions, visual and auditory hallucinations.
predominantly beer, is an important risk factor Patients experience agitation and restlessness.
of gout. It is also a risk factor of fibromyalgia. Delirium and tremors are present. Tachycardia,
Heavy alcohol intake is an established cause ataxia, disorientation, seizures are the common
of osteoporosis and fracture. signs seen. [1]
10. Central nervous system: Episodic memory Managing Harmful Effects of Alcohol: The Role
may be impaired. It is also associated with of homeopathy[5,6]
the occurrence of cluster headaches. Subdural
haematoma can occur spontaneously in 1. Lachesis:
alcoholics. Acute cerebral dysfunction can
also be seen in alcoholics. It is an important It is suited to drunkards with congestive
risk factor of stroke. Sleep disturbances are headaches. Marked craving of alcohol is
also seen. present. Hereditary alcoholism is seen. Liver
is so sensitive to touch that he cannot bear
11. Psychiatry: It produces anxiety, dysphoria, anything around waist. In the epigastric
irritability and hyperkatifeia. region, persistent trembling can be seen.

16 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
Headache after waking. It can be used for the body.
withdrawal stage when delirium tremens is 7. Sulphuric acidum:
present with anxious trembling and confusion.
There is marked craving for alcohol. He mixes
2. Nux vomica: liquor in water as water causes coldness in his
The person is engaged in mental labor stomach. Profound debility is seen especially
and leads a sedentary life and desires for in the gastrointestinal tract producing
stimulants such as wine, coffee. Insanity gastralgia, sour vomiting, heartburn and
is seen in drunkards. He is quarrelsome, hyperchlorhydria. His breath is offensive.
irritable and malicious. There is a feeling He experiences tremors, cramp like paralytic
of intoxication. Nausea and vomiting with contractions in arms and hands with jerking
retching. He is unable to vomit but he desires of fingers while writing. He is impatient,
so. Bitter eructations and bloated sensation everything must be done in great hurry. It has
in epigastrium with pressure as from a stone been mentioned by Dr. William Boericke that
after several hours of eating. He is unable to sulphuric acid when mixed with three parts of
sleep after 3 a.m. till morning. alcohol and taken around ten to fifteen drops
3. Arsenic album: thrice a day for several weeks is effective in
reducing the craving for liquor.
It is suitable for bad effects of alcoholism
producing a state of generalized weakness and 8. Opium:
lethargy. Satiety of life in drunkards. Nutrition There is general sluggishness and lack of vital
is impaired leading to gradual weight loss. reaction. All his complaints are painless and
Nausea with retching and vomiting after characterized by drowsy stupor. He is unable
eating or drinking. Painful hepatomegaly and to understand his sufferings. He is in a state
splenomegaly. Burning pains in the abdomen of delirium, does delirious talking with wide
as from coals of fire. It produces trembling open eyes. Vertigo with lightness of head.
and twitching with spasm, heaviness and His look is that of an intoxicated man with
weakness of extremities. Sleep is disturbed. half closed eyes, insensible contracted pupils.
He feels anxious and restlessness at night. Spasmodic twitching of face, especially corners
4. Sulphur: of mouth. Trembling of the whole body after
fright with external coldness. Abdomen is
He is forgetful, irritable and a very talkative
hard and bloated with chronic constipation.
person. Thinking is difficult and delusions
Appetite is lost with no desire to eat.
such as he is wealthy and rags are beautiful
things. There is either complete loss of 9. Quercus E Glandibus:
appetite or excessive hunger. Weak and faint It is known to antidote the effect of alcohol.
feeling in abdomen about 11 a.m. and he must Ten drops in a teaspoonful of distilled spirit
have something to eat. Abdomen is sensitive should be given three to four times a day
to pressure and there is internal feeling of to take away the craving for alcoholics. It is
rawness and soreness. Tenderness around the useful in dropsy, gout and liver affections.
liver region. Trembling of hands. 10. Selenium metallicum:
5. Asarum: There is a strong desire for brandy and other
There is loss of appetite with increased desire strong drinks. Patient suffers with chronic liver
for alcoholic drinks. Nausea is worse after affections with painful hepatomegaly and fine
eating. He suffers with flatulence, eructations, rashes over the liver region. He has lascivious
heartburn and vomiting. Vanishing of thoughts with impotence which leads to
thoughts with drawing pressure in forehead. irritability after coitus. He gets exhausted
6. Ranunculus bulbosus: easily, both mentally and physically.
It is a useful remedy for the bad effects of 11. Aloes socotrina:
alcoholism. Delirium tremens are present. This remedy is best suited to old beer
Patient experiences shocks throughout the drinkers who lead a sedentary lifestyle. He

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 17

Subjective
experiences fullness in the region of the liver livingstone/ Elsevier; 2014
and pain under right ribs. This is one of the 2. Witkiewitz K, Litten RZ, Leggio L. Advances in the science and
treatment of alcohol use disorder. Sci Adv. [Internet] 2019 Sep
top medicines for portal congestion. He is 25[cited 2023 jun] ;5(9)
angry and dissatisfied about himself and is Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/
disinclined for mental labor. PMC6760932/
3. Koob GF, Colrain IM. Alcohol use disorder and sleep disturbances:
12. Antimonium tartaricum: a feed-forward allostatic framework. Neuropsychopharmacology.
It is useful for the gastric affections of the [Internet] 2020 Jan9 [ cited 2023 june] ;45(1):141-165.

drunkards. There is trembling of the whole Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/

PMC6879503/
body with great prostration and faintness. 4. Zhang R, Wiers CE, Manza P, Tomasi D, Shokri-Kojori E, Kerich
Irresistible sleepiness with nearly all M, Almira E, Schwandt M, Diazgranados N, Momenan R, Volkow
complaints. Nausea, retching and vomiting ND. Severity of alcohol use disorder influences sex differences
in sleep, mood, and brain functional connectivity impairments.
with deathly faintness, fear and prostration. Brain Commun. 2022 May 22;4(4)
Vomiting in every position except when lying https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9251604/
on the right side. 5. Boericke W. Pocket Manual of homoeopathic materia medica and
repertory , 9th ed . Noida : B. Jain Publishers Pvt. Ltd. ; 2016
DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION: 6. Remedia Homoeopathy. Materia Medica By Cyrus Maxwell
Boger.[internet] [cited 2023 jun ] available from: https://www.
Alcohol dependence is creating a major health is- materiamedica.info/en/materia-medica/cyrus-maxwell-boger/
sue. It has become the need of hour to control this index

situation as its addiction is growing due to many

reasons such as easy availability, low prices and ABOUT THE AUTHORS
increasing cultural changes. Alcohol has its ma- 1. Dr. Ashok Yadav Professor , H.O.D.,
jor impact on liver producing ALD, cirrhosis etc. Department of Practice Of Medicine, Dr. MPK
but no system of our body remains untouched by Homoeopathic medical College, Hospital and
it. In homeopathy, there are several homeopathic Research Centre, Jaipur, Rajasthan
drugs which are effective in controlling the urge to
drink and reducing its effects on our body. Thus,
2. Dr. Virendra Chauhan Associate Professor,
while taking history, history of alcohol intake
Department of Practice Of Medicine, Dr. MPK
should always be considered. Patients should be
Homoeopathic medical College, Hospital and
instructed about the harmful effects produced by
Research Centre, Jaipur, Rajasthan
alcohol and its addiction.

3. Dr. Bhavneet Kaur M.D. Scholar,

REFERENCES: Department of Practice Of Medicine, Dr. MPK
1. Walkar B.R, Colledge Nicki R.,Ralston S.H. Davidson’s Homoeopathic medical College, Hospital and
Principles and Practice of Medicine. 22nd ed. Edinburg: Churchill
Research Centre, Jaipur, Rajasthan

18 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective

Conquer Alcohol Addiction With

Homoeopathy
Dr. Puja S. Dabhi

ABSTRACT
Alcohol and its addiction is a major problem in the current era. There are many substances which produce a
euphoric state similar to alcohol but alcohol is still a highly consumable addictive substance in society. Homoe-
opathy plays a vital role not only in the weaning process of alcohol but also helps in reducing physiological and
psychological ill effects of it.

Keywords: Alcohol, Addiction, Dependency, Homoeopathy

Abbreviations: GABA-gamma-amino butyric acid, NMDA -N-methyl-D-aspartate, ALDH-acetaldehyde

dehydrogenase,BAC-blood alcohol content,ARBD-alcohol-related brain damage

INTRODUCTION substance use over other activities, recurrent

withdrawal symptoms, relief drinking or use of

T here are large varieties of substances available

to man which can produce addiction after their
usage. Alcohol is a substance which is consumed
substance ,and a compulsion to use the substance
are all characteristics of this pattern of use. Both
psychological and physiological withdrawal
very frequently and among all. Alcohol and other symptoms are possible.
drug substances are both included when we talk
about “substance abuse”. Some examples are- Aetiology1
Alcohol, cannabis, opioids, sedative/hypnotics,
inhalants, hallucinogens, cocaine and other A stereotyped pattern of use, precedence of sub-
similarly acting chemicals. stance use over other activities, recurrent with-
drawal symptoms (which occur with abrupt ces-
Epidemiology1 sation or reduction of use), relief drinking or use
of substance (drinking or using substance to over-
Male lifetime prevalence rates for alcohol con- come withdrawal symptoms), and a compulsion
sumption in India’s general population range to use the substance are all characteristics of this
from 24% to 74%, and student lifetime prevalence pattern of use.
rates range from 10% to 58%. 21% of 40,697 males
In this regard, alcohol works by making the ex-
between the ages of 12 and 60 who participated
citatory and inhibitory effects of glutamate and
in a recent National Household Survey on alcohol
gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) neurotrans-
and other substances reported using alcohol cur-
mitters more potent.
rently.
Although most drug users have a “drug of choice,” Ethanol can indirectly affect the release of other
polysubstance misuse is the most frequently seen neurotransmitters such serotonin, dopamine, nor-
pattern and is influenced by accessibility and cost. epinephrine, glutamate, aspartate, and GABA by
inhibiting the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) re-
Dependence1 ceptor. The hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal axis
and the extra-hypothalamic corticotropin-releas-
A stereotyped pattern of use, precedence of ing factor system, which control the body’s reac-

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 19

Subjective
tion to stress, are two more systems with which aged if acetaldehyde builds up in them.
the brain reward systems communicate. Chronic
substance use impairs the balance of these sys- Criteria for Alcohol Dependence2
tems and inhibits the production of adaptive re-
sponses. 1.) A reduction in the range of drinks
2.) Prioritizing drinking over other pursuits
Alcohol abuse and dependence1
(salience)
Early alcohol-related issues frequently go unno- 3.) Tolerance for alcohol’s effects
ticed and ignored until dependence develops, and
if it is occurring frequently only then that medical 4.) Recurrent withdrawal signs
assistance is suggested. In every given commu-
5.) Relieving withdrawal symptoms by
nity, alcohol is linked to more than 60 different
consuming more alcohol
health issues. It primarily contributes to accidents
and injuries, which account for 15% to 20% of 6.) Subjective alcohol compulsion
mortality. Regularly abusing large amounts of
alcohol is linked to psychological issues, suicide, 7.) Resuming drinking habits after a period of
and greater disability. abstinence

Effects of Ethanol1
Pathogenesis2
Spirits like whisky, brandy, rum, and gin as well The most crucial elements appear to be alcohol
as distilled liquors like arrack have ethanol con- accessibility and social drinking habits. Depen-
centrations that range from 35% to 50%, whereas dency is genetically predisposed. Despite the fact
beers normally have 4% to 5% alcohol content that the majority of persons who abuse alcohol
and wines have an alcohol percentage of around do not also have a psychiatric disease, some do
12%. With the amount of alcohol in the beverage, drink heavily in an effort to combat despair or
the blood alcohol content (BAC) rises. Although anxiety.
modest amounts are also absorbed through the
stomach, large intestine, and the mucous mem- Clinical Features2
branes of the mouth and esophagus, the proximal The following is a summary of the ways that al-
small intestine is where alcohol is absorbed most cohol addiction and abuse with its complications
frequently. are presented.
The rate of ingestion is accelerated by gulping Social problems
down liquids, drinking quickly, and combining Absenteeism, unemployment, marital conflict,
alcohol with carbonated drinks like soda. Con- verbal abuse, financial hardships, and legal issues
geners, proteins, and carbohydrates can all slow like violence and moving violations are common
down its absorption. Congeners, particularly characteristics.
those found in illegally produced alcohol, can Low mood
harm internal organs. These congeners include
iron, lead, and cobalt as well as heavy metals like Since alcohol has a direct depressive impact and
methanol, butanol, aldehydes, histamines, phe- frequent drinking causes several social problems,
nols, and tannins. Blood alcohol peaks 30 to 60 low mood is a common occurrence. Abuse of alco-
minutes after consumption on an empty stomach. hol is linked to attempted and successful suicide
The microsomal ethanol oxidizing system, which Anxiety
accounts for around 10% of the metabolism at
high blood alcohol concentrations, is another Anxious people may temporarily relieve their
metabolic process. Acetaldehyde may stimulate worry by drinking alcohol, but this can lead to de-
and encourage behavior at low dosages. The liv- pendence. In contrast, alcohol withdrawal makes
er, brain, and other body tissues may get dam- people more anxious.

20 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome - Cardiac: hypertension, cardiomyopathy
The characteristics are explained below. Seizures - Musculoskeletal: fractures and myopathy
are possible symptoms that can peak roughly 2-3
- Endocrine and metabolic: Hypoglycemia,
days following the last drink. A severe alcohol
gout
withdrawal illness known as delirium tremens
is described by both delirium (often marked by Pseudo-Cushing’s syndrome,
agitation and visual hallucinations) and physi-
ological hyper-arousal (tremor, sweating, and Reproductive: Infertility, hypogonadism, fetal
tachycardia). Significant mortality and morbidity alcohol syndrome,
are present. Psychiatric and cerebral
The features of Alcohol withdrawal syndrome are Alcoholic hallucinosis
as follows:
Alcoholic ‘blackouts’
● Acute intoxication
Depression
Hypoglycemia with emotional and behavioral
disturbance, Wernicke’s encephalopathy: ataxia with
nystagmus or ophthalmoplegia and delirium
Ketoacidosis, aspiration of vomit, respiratory
depression Korsakoff’s syndrome: short-term memory
deficits leading to Confabulation
Accidents and wounds from fighting
● Hallucinations
● Withdrawal phenomena
In delirium tremens, hallucinations—typically
Psychological symptoms: anxiety, agitation, visual but occasionally in other modalities—
and panic attacks are frequent. Less frequently seen is a
condition known as "alcoholic hallucinosis," in
Autonomic signs include tachycardia,
which a patient with alcoholism has auditory
sweating, dilated pupils, nausea, and
hallucinations while still aware and not in the
vomiting.
midst of alcohol withdrawal.
Delirium: hallucinations (classically
● Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome
‘Lilliputian’), Delusions, agitation, illusions
This is a substantial indirect effect of long-term
● Consequences of harmful use
alcohol use that is focused on addiction. It is
- Neurological: cerebellar degeneration, an organic brain disorder caused by thiamin
cerebral hemorrhage, peripheral neuropathy, (vitamin B1) deficiency, which damages the
dementia thalamic dorsomedial nuclei, mamillary
bodies, and surrounding periventricular
- Hepatic: Cirrhosis, fatty change and, liver grey matter.Wernicke's encephalopathy is
cancer characterised by ataxia, psychosis, nystagmus
- Gastrointestinal: Mallory–Weiss syndrome, and ophthalmoplegia.
malabsorption, oesophageal varices ● Alcohol-related brain damage
oesophagitis, gastritis, pancreatitis,
oesophageal cancer, The term "alcohol-related brain damage"
- Respiratory: pneumonia, pulmonary (ARBD) is widely used to describe a variety of
tuberculosis, brain conditions linked to heavy alcohol use,
many of which coexist in the same patient. Very
- Skin: Dupuytren’s contractures, heavy drinkers occasionally go through what
telangiectasias spider naevi, palmar erythema, are known as "alcoholic blackouts," which are
periods of forgetting things that happened

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 21

Subjective

while they were intoxicated. When a patient unable to concentrate on one thing at a time4.
has a history of alcohol abuse, they may get
"alcoholic dementia," a widespread cognitive 5. Cannabis indica: Assists when the higher
impairment that resembles Alzheimer's faculties are inhibited and when the
disease but does not become worse with imagination is stimulated. An extremely
abstinence. Indirect effects of high alcohol ecstatic condition in which all perceptions,
use on the brain include Wernicke-Korsakoff conceptions, feelings, and emotions are
syndrome, head injury, hypoglycemia, and exaggerated. Feels like the top of the head is
encephalopathy. expanding and closing and that the calvarium
is being raised4.
Management:
6. Hyoscyamus niger: Mainly neurological
Often, all that is necessary to assist an alcoholic system disturbance, making it a good drug
is a doctor’s explanation of the harmful effects of of choice for alcoholic addicts. The brain’s
alcohol and the advised safe limits of consump- functionality completely halted and as if
tion. People need counseling in more serious someone has taken over. Accompanied by
cases to shift their hobbies or professions in order psychosis, spasmodic muscular problems.
to decrease their intake. Psychological therapy Profound stupor and perpetual carphologia4.
is required for those who have relapsed repeat-
edly and is often provided at special facilities2. 7. Ichthyolum: In alcoholism nothing will stay on
Treatment for alcohol-induced psychopathology the stomach. Forgetful, not paying attention.
includes encouraging patients to achieve absti- Unpleasant taste higher appetite4.
nence, giving supportive care, reassurance, and 8. Kola: The solution to the Alcohol drinking
“talk therapy” such as cognitive-behavioral ap- problem. It decreases the desire for alcohol
proaches.3 while enhancing digestion and appetite.Gives
Apart from this Homoeopathy plays a very im- the ability to engage in continuous physical
portant role in the treatment of various compli- activity without eating or experiencing
cations of alcohol addiction as well significantly weariness4.
helps in process of alcohol weaning.
9. Nux vomica: For many diseases that are
Homoeopathic Management: prevalent in modern life, including social
1. Agaricus muscarius: It corresponds to drinking, this is by far the greatest treatment.
various cerebral stimulation. Consequently, His prolonged office hours, extensive learning,
in alcoholism, fever delirium, etc. Sings and and intimate ties to his company. Makes him
chats but doesn’t respond. Averse to work. Prone to stimulants like alcohol4.
Delirium with rhymes and prophecies, as well 10. Opium: Nervous system insensibility,
as singing, shouting, and muttering. Starts depression, painlessness, and torpor, as well
with an episode of yawning4. as general lethargy and lack of vital response.
2. Angelica atropurpurea: It causes aversion for They are accompanied with sterile breathing
alcohol and thus aids in alcoholism5. and foolish dozing. A dark mahogany tone on
their face. Resistance of a drug to the effects of
3. Asarum europaeum: A treatment for severe other drugs4.
erethism, energy loss, and nervous disorders.
It’s painful to scratch on silk, linen, or paper. 11. Quercus glandium spiritus: Alcoholic effects
Aches and spasmodic muscle movements .An are mitigated. Dizziness and hearing loss.
intense thirst for alcoholic beverages4. Removes cravings for alcoholics. However,
it treats the drunken state and decreases
4. Avena sativa: Various effects of Alcoholism. appetite. Uncertain, silent, prone to crying,
Sleeplessness, particularly common among and unable to fully support his own position.
drinkers. Nerve tremors, chorea, paralysis Drunk-like feeling in the head6.
agitans, and epilepsy in older persons. Being

22 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective

12. Strophanthus hispidus: Strophanthus is a approach.

more potent diuretic, has no cumulative side
effects, doesn’t affect vaso-motor function, is REFERENCES
safe for elderly individuals4.Able to treat heart
1. Munjal, Y. P., & Sharma, S. K. (2012). API textbook of medicine,
problems brought on by alcohol, smoke, and ninth edition, two volume set. Jaypee Brothers Medical.
tea6.
2. Ralston SH, Penman I, Strachan MWJ, Hobson R, editors.
Davidson's principles and practice of medicine. 23 rd edition
13. Sulphur: The worst position is standing since London, England: Elsevier Health Sciences; 2021.
it is the most uncomfortable. Those who lack
3. Kasper, D. L., Fauci, A. S., Hauser, S. L., Longo, D. L., Jameson,
proper hygiene. Constantly busy. Adults that J. L., & Loscalzo, J. (2015). Harrison’s principles of internal medicine
resembles childish behavior. Sulphur patients 19/E (vol.1 & vol.2) (ebook) (19th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education/
are typically anxious, melancholy, thin, and Medical.

fragile even when they have a good appetite4. 4. Boericke W. Pocket manual of homeopathic materia medica
& repertory. New Delhi, India: B Jain; 2022.
14. Sulphuric acid: An intense craving for
5. ALLEN T.F., A.M., M.D, THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF
stimulants. Tremor and weakness. Hot flushes
followed by shaking and sweat. Writer’s PURE MATERIA MEDICA, [cited 2023 JUNE 12]; Available from:
http://homeoint.org/allen/a/angel.htm
cramp. Anxious, irritated. Hurried and
unresponsive to inquiries4. 6. CLARKE JH, M.D, DICTIONARY OF PRACTICAL MATERIA
MEDICA,[cited 2023 JUNE 12]; Available from: http://www.
homeoint.org/clarke/
CONCLUSION:
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Alcoholism and its addiction is one of the deeply
rooted societal issues. Its addiction can lead to 1. Dr. Puja S. Dabhi
many Physiological, psychological and societal
consequences. Homoeopathy can prevent and Associate Professor, Department of
abolish such effects of alcohol with its Holistic Homoeopathic Materia Medica at Sumandeep
Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 23

 Subjective

Resolving The Complications of

Addiction By Homeopathy In Italics
Dr. Dimple Soni

ABSTRACT
Addiction is a term that means compulsive physiological need for and use of a habit-forming substance (like her-
oin, nicotine, alcoholism, drugs, smoking) characterized by tolerance and well-defined physiological symptoms
upon withdrawal. Compulsive use of these substances lead to more harmful effects on the level of physical,
psychological and social aspects. Homoeopathy has a great role in helping these patients through supportive
treatment. Homeopathic management can prove to be really beneficial in addiction cases. Homeopathic medi-
cines can strengthen the person’s overall constitution so they are not only less physically addicted to all these
substances but they feel stronger emotionally and thus feel less addicted to all these substances.

Keywords: Addiction, Alcohol Misuse, Alcohol Dependence, Alcohol Withdrawal, Homeopathy, Ho-
meopathic medicines

Abbreviations: WHO- World Health Organization, NMHS- National Mental Health Survey, ATS- Am-
phetamine Type Stimulants, MCV- Mean Corpuscular Volume, GGT- Gamma Glutamyl Transpepti-
dase, CNS- Central Nervous System

INTRODUCTION Epidemiology: 3

A ddiction is a disease that affects the brain

and behavior of a person. Addiction means
a recurring compulsion in an individual's health,
From a public health and social welfare perspec-
tive- it is the prevalence of substance use disor-
ders (harmful use and dependence) which is more
mental state and social life; it may be alcohol, concerning. In general, the trend that appears
chemical drugs, smoking, etc. An addiction state in most of the states is, higher the prevalence of
is characterized by three stages: preoccupation/ current use, higher the prevalence of alcohol use
anticipation, blinge/intoxication, withdrawal/ disorders according to NMHS. Data presented in
negative affect. A proper case history and the report indicates the prevalence of alcohol use
individualization after constructing the totality of disorders to be slightly higher at 5.2% nationally
symptoms is the key for successful homeopathic (2018). According to WHO, a substantial number
treatment. Homeopathy can facilitate of Indians (5.2%) use alcohol in a harmful/depen-
detoxification, behavioral negativities, denial and dent pattern, which is almost equal to the global
deterioration from addiction. It helps to build the estimates. In other words, fewer people in India
motivation to resist addictions, replace addictive consume alcohol, but a larger proportion are af-
activities with positive and rewarding behaviors, fected by harmful use of or dependence on alco-
and safely manage the symptoms of withdrawal hol. In India, other than alcohol, some regional
associated with quitting addictions. drug substances are also used for addiction like
cannabis (1.2%), Opioids (2.06%), Cocaine (0.11%),
ATS (0.18%).

24 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective

SUBSTANCE ROUTE

Alcohol ● Oral
Opioids ● Oral

● Parenteral

● Smoking
Cannabis (Marijuana) ● Smoking

● Oral
Cocaine ● Inhalation

● Smoking
ATS ● Oral

● Parenteral

Alcohol Misuse & Dependence:5 increased lipolysis and ketogenesis

• Other features- while intoxicated patient may
Consumption of alcohol when associated with
have suffered an injury (head or peripheral
social, psychological and physical problems con-
nerve), Amnesia and Hangover (in no
stitutes alcohol misuse. A problematic pattern of
habituated person)
alcohol use leading to clinically significant im-
pairment or distress, as manifested by multiple
psychosocial, behavioral or physiological features Complications Of Chronic Alcoholism:4
constitutes alcohol dependence.
• Gastrointestinal:
Aetiology:4
- Periodontal disease and caries
● It is caused by drinking too much - Oral infections, leukoplakia and
● Result of self-medication for life stresses malignancy
● It is caused by depravity of temperament - Alcoholic gastritis and hematemesis
● Alcoholism is hereditary - Alcoholic enteropathy and malabsorption
syndrome
Complications Of Acute Intoxication:4
- Colonic malignancy
• CNS depression- small quantity interferes • Hepatobiliary and pancreatic
cortical processes, and large quantity - Hepatomegaly-Fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis,
depresses medullary functions fibrosis
• Vasodilatation- hypothermia and hypotension - Acute and chronic relapsing pancreatitis
• Hypoglycemia- occur within – hours after - Latent genetic hepatic porphyrias
ingestion. Patient is comatose, hypothermic,
sweating, flushing, tachycardia • Cardiovascular
- Cardiac arrhythmia
• Lactic acidosis- mainly occurs in patients with
severe liver disease, pancreatitis or sepsis - Cardiomyopathy
• Alcoholic ketoacidosis- results from - Hypertension
combination of dehydration, glucopenia, - Hypercholesterolemia

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 25

 Subjective
• Neurological - Family problem
- Giddiness, tremor Marital discord
- Stroke - Road accidents, driving offenses
- Cerebral dementia, cerebellar degeneration - Employment- absentism, poor performance
- Demyelinating syndrome- central pontine - Children’s problem- stress, behavioural
myelinolysis problem
- Neuropathy- sensory, motor, mixed, • Psychological
autonomy - Anxiety (social phobia), depression
- Nutritional deficiency - Personality change
- Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome - Misuse of other drugs
- Pellagra - Cognitive impairment
- Tobacco-alcohol amblyopia - Social phobia
• Voluntary muscles and skeletal
Alcohol Withdrawal:5
- Proximal metabolic myopathy
- Alcohol withdrawal is mainly seen in chronic
- Neuromyopathy
alcoholics. It is characterized by the sudden
- Atrophy of smooth muscles of GI leading to exhibition of CNS.
motility disorders
- Clinical features occur 6-8 hours after the
- Osteopenia reduction of ethanol intake and may last for
- Gout 2-7 days. They are as follows:
- Avascular necrosis (e.g. femoral head) • Minor withdrawal symptoms:
- Fractures (malunion) These resolve within 24-28 hours. It includes
• Genitourinary and reproductive insomnia, tremors, hyper-reflexia, restlessness,
- IgA nephropathy mild anxiety, gastrointestinal upset, headache,
- Renal tubular acidosis tachycardia, palpitations, sweating, hypertension,
anorexia, nausea, vomiting
- Renal tract infections
- Subfertility • Alcoholic hallucination:
- Impotence Appear within 8-12 hours of abstinence and
- Spontaneous abortion disappear within 48-72 hours. These hallucinations
are visual, not associated with clouding of
- Fetal alcohol syndrome
sensorium.
• Dermatological
• Withdrawal seizures:
- Skin stigmata of liver disease
- Skin infections- bacterial, fungal, virus Also known as RUM FITS. Seizures are generalized
tonic-clonic convulsions. These develop usually
- Psoriasis 12-24 hours after the last drink but it develops
- Discoid eczema after only 2 hours of abstinence. About 30%
- Local cutaneous vascular effects of delirium tremens patients have a history of
withdrawal seizures preceding delirium tremens.
• Hematological
- RBCs- Macrocytosis, anemia due to blood • Delirium tremens:
loss, folate deficiency, malabsorption Develop between 24-72 hours after the last drink,
- WBCs- Neutropenia, lymphopenia and may last for 1-5 days. If alcohol withdrawal
- Platelets- Thrombocytopenia is not treated early, about 5% of them may have a
chance to develop delirium tremens.
• Social

26 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
These include agitation, visual hallucination, MANAGEMENT:5
illusion, delusion, dilated pupils, dehydration- as
a result of diaphoresis, tachypnea, hypokalemia, Alcohol dependence can be treated in two phases-
hypophosphatemia, hypomagnesemia. Around
Detoxification and Rehabilitation
5 % of patients may die because of arrhythmia,
pneumonia or electrolyte imbalance. (i) Detoxification-
Diagnosis Of Dependence:4 - Alcohol sensitizing agents- Disulfiram
Diagnosis may be apparent from the history - Anticraving agents- Naltrexone, Acamprosate
or may be made when the patient present with
complication (ii) Rehabilitation-
• A strong desire or sense of compulsion to take - To prevent relapse
the substance
• Difficulties in controlling substance taking - Needs psychotherapeutic interventions
behavior
HOMEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT6&7
• A physiological withdrawal stage when
substance use has stopped or reduced Today, homeopathy is a rapidly growing system
• Evidence of tolerance, such that increased and is practiced all over the world. It strengthens
dose of psychoactive substance are required effectively as it takes a holistic approach towards
in order to achieve effects originally produced the sick individual through promotion of inner
by lower doses balance at mental, emotional, spiritual and physical
• Progressive neglect of alternative pleasures or levels. When alcohol dependence is concerned,
interests many effective homeopathic medicines are there,
depending upon the individuality of the patient.
• Persisting with substance use results in
harmful consequences like liver injury, ANGELICA: Angelica produces disgust for
depressive moods, etc. liquor. It is also used for atony of different organs,
nervous headaches. Chronic bronchitis to increase
expectancy. Dose- 5 drops three times a day in
INVESTIGATIONS OF DEPENDENCE:5 tincture form.

Laboratory detection of alcohol abuse includes- QUERCUS GLANDIUM SPIRITUS: Quercus

antidotes the effects of alcohol. Takes away the
• Breath, Blood and Urine Examination- screen craving for alcohol (give for several months).
for alcohol Spleen dropsy and liver affections. Dose: 10 drops
• GGT- most sensitive for alcohol abuse, and to a teaspoonful of the distilled spirit 3-4 times a
raised in alcohol abuse person day.
• MCV- raised, but less sensitive than GGT
STRYCHNINUM NITRICUM: Strychninum
• Carbohydrate-deficient transferrin level-
stimulates motor centers and reflex action of the
elevated and highly specific in absence of liver
spinal cord. It also stimulates CNS, produces
disease
mental activities, and special senses rendered
• Phosphatidyl ethanol- greater than 20 mg/dL, more acute.
evidence of chronic intoxication, it can detect
excessive alcohol intake within two-week AVENA SATIVA: Nervous exhaustion, sexual
period debility and morphine habit call for Avena
• Others- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), sativa. Alcoholism. Sleeplessness, especially in
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Lactate alcoholics. Bad effect of morphine habit.
dehydrogenase (LDH)

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 27

Subjective
NUX VOMICA: Dizziness and restlessness alcohol.
after alcohol drinking, nux vomica is useful.
After drinking, heavy vomiting, nervousness CONCLUSION:
and trembling. Very much suitable for so
called modern civilized life. Mental stress seeks The above article gives information related to
stimulants like coffee, wine, stimulating food, in the alcohol misuse, alcohol dependence and
excess quantity. alcohol withdrawal symptoms, their diagnosis,
investigations and management(modern) and
OPIUM: Opium causes insensibility of the nervous role of homeopathic treatment in cases of this
system. It produces drowsiness, stuporous state kind of diseases. Homoeopathy can be a potential
and depression, painlessness, torpor and general science which helps to cure as well as prevent
sluggishness. Lessens voluntary movements, this kind of diseases in near future which will
depresses higher intellectual power, lessens self- be helpful to improve the quality of the patient’s
control and judgmental power and stimulates the life. As incidence of consumption of alcohol and
imagination. other substances are very much higher in day to
day life, so the medical world needs a treatment
RANUNCULUS BULBOSUS: Bad effects of which helps the patient as a whole to maintain his
alcohol and delirium tremens. Dose- mother normal healthy state which purpose can be served
tincture, 10-30 drop doses for delirium tremens. by homoeopathic treatment.
CHIMAPHILLA UMBELLATA: Chimaphilla is
effective for removal of hepatic and renal dropsies REFERENCES:
in chronic alcoholics. 1. https://www.webmd.com/mental -health/addiction/drug-abuse-
addiction
STERCULA: Stercula is the remedy for drinking 2. https://www.homeopathy360.com/2017/09/06/drugs-de-
addiction-with-homeopathy- the-role-of-homeopathy-in-the-
habit. It promotes the appetite and digestion and treatment-of-drug-addiction/
lessens the craving for alcohol. Dose- 3-10 drops 3. https://socialjustice.gov.in./writereaddata/UploadFile/
or even 1 dram doses for three times a day. Survey%20Report.pdf
4. Golwala Aspi F. Medicine for Students twenty fourth edition:2014
SULPHURIC ACID: Sulphuric acid is the best 5. Boloor Archith Nayak Ramadas Exam Preparatory Manual for
remedy for alcoholism. Craving for alcohol is Undergraduates: Medicine second edition
and main symptom of this remedy. Sulphuric 6. Boericke’s New Manual of Homoeopathic Materia Medica with
Repertory. Third Revised & Augmented Edition Based on Ninth
acid mixed with three parts of alcohol, 10-15 Edition
drops 3 times daily for several weeks, has been 7. Phatak Dr.S.R. Materia Medica of Homeopathic Medicines
successfully used to subdue the craving for Reprint Edition: October 2011.

28 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective

CONCLUSION
The Road to Recovery- Understanding Alcoholism
Though superficially, the presentation of patient
and Addiction and The Role of Homoeopathy
is found in many remedies, the basic core of the
patient differentiates the remedy and we can
reach the similimum. Causative factor and the Deepanshi Dhama
reaction pattern belong to the core and help in
individualisation. Finer aspects of patient’s core
feelings help in remedy differentiation.
ABSTRACT
The marked feature of Menispermeaceae family
Alcohol and addictions are influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and psychological fac-
is the profound weakness of the kidney and
tors. Alcoholism is not only associated with a risk of developing health problems such as mental and behavioral
genitourinary complaints which points to Pareira
disorders, but also with major noncommunicable diseases such as liver cirrhosis, cancers and cardiovascular
brava.
diseases. A well selected homoeopathic remedy can help in different stages of addiction and thus, to lead a
healthy life.
REFERENCES
Keywords: Homoeopathy, alcoholism, addiction, Alcohol Deprivation Effect, psychology, Sinclair meth-
1. Dr.Mahesh Gandhi, Personal Evolution Model The Foundation
odBook, first edition reprint 2019; New Delhi, published by The
General Manager Crossbill Publishing Co., pages 61, page 63,
page 65, page 135, page 88

INTRODUCTION
2. ICD Code

A
PSYCHIATRIC POINT OF VIEW
lcoholism
3. Synthesis iscreated
1.3 app, a burning problem
by Archibel in today’s
SA, based fast
on Synthesis
Repertory version 2009, Editor Dr. Frederik Schroyens.
running world where everyone is fighting From a psychiatric perspective, alcohol depen-
their own
4. Michal battles;WONDROUS
Yakir,Ph.D, ‘It all started
ORDERwith occasional
Systematic Table Of dence and drug addiction have aspects of both
drinking which
Homoeopathic turned
Plant him
Remedies into
Book a chronic
One addicted
: Flowering Plants, 7th
impulsivity and compulsivity at different stages
edition,Hebrew, English, 2016, Kandern, Narayan Verlag, page
alcoholic’.
164, page 166
According to WHO, worldwide, 3 of the addiction cycle.
million deaths every year result from harmful use
of I.C.R
5. alcohol. This represents
OPERATIONAL MANUAL,5.3%Editorof
Dr.all deaths
Anand and
R. Kapse, Impulse Control Vs Compulsive Disorders?
second edition, 2003; published by Dr. M.L. Dhawale Memorial
overall, 5.1% of the
trust; page 102 to 105
global burden of disease and
injury is attributable to alcohol, as measured in Impulse control disorders are characterized by
disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).[1] an increasing sense of tension or arousal before
ABOUT THE AUTHOR committing an impulsive act, feelings of pleasure,
To understand the treatment protocol for alcohol- gratification, or relief at the time of committing
1.
ism,Dr Vaishali to P.
it is essential Joshi, the
understand M.Dbasic(Hom.),
reason the act and possible regret, self-reproach, or guilt
Homoeopathic Physician
behind these addictions. Several psychoanalysts following the act. In contrast, compulsive disor-
have given different theories for alcoholism. The ders are characterized by anxiety and stress be-
well-known Sinclair experiment is one of the fore committing a compulsive repetitive behavior
many efforts to understand alcohol dependency and relief from the stress by performing the com-
in rats. Here some analysts relate addiction with pulsive behavior.
certain genes thus giving two forms of alcohol ad-
As an individual moves from an impulsive to a
diction-
compulsive disorder, there is a shift from positive
• Acquired addiction to negative reinforcement driving the motivated
• Hereditary addiction behavior. Drug addiction is a disorder that pro-
gresses from impulsivity to compulsivity in a col-
Homoeopathic science is based on individualiza- lapsed cycle of addiction [2]
tion of patients and certainly works wonders in
Science Behind Addiction- Sinclair Experiment
breaking this addiction cycle.
Dr. R.J.Senter at the University of Cincinnati had a

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 29

 Subjective
grant for doing alcohol research and hired Sin- these children were given up for adoption at birth
clair (UG student) in 1964 to help look after the and raised by adoptive parents who did not have
laboratory rats. In the experiment, the rats had the disorder. High vulnerability is associated with
been given a choice between water and alcohol preexisting schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, as
for several weeks. The rats took about 70 percent well as impulsivity, and a high risk specifically for
of their fluid from the water bottle and only about alcohol use disorder is associated with a low level
30 percent from the alcohol bottle. Rats seemed to of response (low sensitivity) to alcohol.[4]
prefer water to alcohol.
Genetic variants are also likely to influence re-
At the end of that experiment, these rats were left sponse to the treatment either by affecting func-
in their cages for a few weeks with free access to tion of medication-specific molecular targets,
food and water but no alcohol. After a few weeks, including enzymes, receptors or transporters, or
when rats were normally sleeping, Sinclair went indirectly and through factors that are not medi-
down to the rat room and started putting alcohol cation specific: anxiety, dysphoria, sedation, and
bottles back on the cages. Much to his surprise, cognition.
the rats immediately woke up, came to the front
of the cage, and began drinking the alcohol solu- In the pharmacodynamic domain, level of re-
tion vigorously. They paid no attention to the wa- sponse to alcohol has been associated with vari-
ter bottle next to it. Their preference for alcohol ants of several genes (e.g., HTT and GABRA6),
gradually returned to normal levels over the next but the findings require confirmation. HTTLPR,
week, but having seen that high level of drink- NPY Leu7Pro polymorphisms and the GABRA2
ing when the alcohol was first returned, He could gene have been associated with alcoholism but
have no doubt that these rats had shown a high their definitive roles remain to be clarified.[5]
motivation for alcohol which he later explain as
A number of gene variations may account for low
ALCOHOL DEPRIVATION EFFECT. [3] response to alcohol or modulate the dopamine re-
ward systems; however, any one gene variation is
Since the 1968-publication of the paper describing likely to explain only l% -2% of the risk for these
the Alcohol Deprivation Effect, it has become rec- disorders.
ognized as central to understanding why alcohol-
ism and many other addictions become lifelong Why Homoeopathy?
conditions. To establish an alcohol craving in the
The standard allopathic drugs prescribed for alco-
first place, it’s necessary to drink alcohol repeat-
hol addiction are Disulfiram, Naltrexone, Acam-
edly for a long time—in rats for several weeks.
prosate, and Baclofen. As per a study on the effects
The ADE explains how already addicted alcohol-
of these drugs it has been found that- The mean
ics increasingly crave alcohol when they abstain
total bilirubin showed a decline of 0.10 ± 0.50 in
from alcohol for a period of time. The deprivation
the baclofen group. However, in the naltrexone,
or abstinence may be the result of hospitalization.
[3] it increased by 0.02 ± 0.47 by the end of the study
period. The levels increased by 0.22 ± 0.72 in the
Genes and Alcoholism acamprosate. The SGOT levels declined the most
in the baclofen (48.59 ± 67.54) followed by nal-
Alcohol use disorder runs in families, with 40%- trexone (27.91 ± 68.84) and acamprosate (14.20 ±
60% of the variance of risk explained by genetic 40.92). The SGPT levels declined the most in the
influences. The rate of this condition is three to baclofen group (14.88 ± 29.29) followed by the na-
four times higher in close relatives of individuals ltrexone (14.79 ± 50.17) and acamprosate (6.67 ±
with alcohol use disorder. A significantly higher 22.64) group. Thus, long term use of these drugs
rate of alcohol use disorders exists in the mono- has harmful effects.[6]
zygotic twin than in the dizygotic twin of an in-
dividual with the condition. A three to fourfold Homoeopathy on the other hand is based on
increase in risk has been observed in children of symptom similarity and individualization of the
individuals with alcohol use disorder, even when patient and believes in a holistic approach of

30 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
treatment. Homoeopathic treatment has a benefi- ened the intellect, and inspire a fear of losing their
cial role in managing patients with acute alcohol mind. Envious, hateful, vindictive, somewhat li-
withdrawal symptoms. Observational studies of centious. Devoid of will-power and unable to re-
homoeopathy intervention also direct toward its fuse a glass of wine.
usefulness in not only breaking the cycle of de-
pendence but also in improving alcohol-related 6. Hepar sulphuris.-Persons who are not affec-
sleep disturbances. tionate, always dissatisfied, high tempered, easily
angered, even to homicide. Inclined to be a crimi-
Homoeopathic therapeutics as mentioned by nal. Need wine to be able to work mentally.
Dr. Gallavardin[7]
7. Arsenicum album-Wicked, vindictive, mer-
1. Nux Vomica-Violent people, often cross, and ciless, sometimes jealous; inclined to commit
whom sorrows or cares lead to drink as a means crimes. Inclined to suicide, by stabbing, poison-
of forgetting, and who spit frequently; or mild- ing or hanging. Persons who are always thirsty
tempered people, kind and affectionate in their and take any kind of drink, even water. Inclined
ordinary condition, who, while drinking, become to vomiting, and more still to diarrhoea; much in-
brutal even to striking, insulting, sometimes clined to persecute others.
weeping. Tendency to jealousy, to envy, to suicide
by shooting or stabbing, before and during drunk- 8. Mercurius vivus-Always dissatisfied with ev-
enness. Inclination to sadness, or to great genital erything, everybody, and themselves. Inclined to
excitement during drunkenness. Longing for red caries of the teeth, to engorgement of the gums, to
wine, white wine, beer, absinth, rum; persons in- salivation, neuralgia, diarrhea, dysentery, intesti-
clined to get drunk for lack of anything else to do; nal worms. Great gamblers. Spending day by day
neurotic men, and women addicted to drunken- what they earn. Hard to get along with and weak-
ness during or after pregnancy. Sometimes thiev- minded.
ing and shrewd; inclined to constipation, to vom-
9. Petroleum-Drunkards without energy, without
iting, to regurgitations, to difficult digestion.
strength of will, unable to refuse a glass of wine,
2. Lachesis-III-natured people, hard to get along vomiting after the least excess in drink, talking
with. Inclined to violent crimes, vindictive, wick- much when they are drunk.
ed, jealous, envious, licentious. Inclined to kill
10. Opium-Especially brandy-drinkers. Getting
others, but not to kill them-selves, except to get
drunk over humiliations, inclined to weep eas-
themselves run over by a vehicle. Talking cease-
ily. Very gay or stupid or sleepy while drunk.
lessly before or during drunkenness. Appetite for
This remedy suits, in the first case, those who get
brandy.
drunk on wine; in the latter, those who get drunk
3. Causticum-Fussy, quarrelsome, cheating, much on cider, beer, ethylic or amylic alcohol.
inclined to be moved to tears before and after
11. Staphysagria-Suits drunkards who have made
drink; very great genital overexcitement before
an abuse of venereal pleasures. Sad before, during
and during drunkenness. Desire for brandy and
and after drunkenness. Hypochondriac. Inclined
wine. Indicated for persons who have lost their
to persecute. Tobacco users.
loved ones. Great indifference.
12. Conium-People who drink to brace-up, be-
4. Sulphur-Slow-going people, getting drunk in
cause they feel extremely cold and chilly. Persons
secret. Desire for wine and whisky. Mild before
who cannot stand continence. Great indifference.
and brutal during drunkenness. More intelligent
Adults lacking in reason, like children. Paralytic
while they are drunk; saying and doing while
weakness of the lower spine, and especially of the
drunk what they would neither say nor do before.
lower legs, inclined to paraplegia.
Obese and corpulent people.
13. Pulsatilla-People who imagine they strength-
5. Calcarea carbonica-Corpulent, obese people.
en their stomachs by drinking, and whose diges-
After excessive mental labors, which have weak-

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 31

Subjective
tive powers are insufficient. Sad while they are CONCLUSION
drunk. Chlorotic women and girls who drink for
the still more envious, inclined to hate. Timid, Out of our
distance. VariousIn Italics
Thus, tele homeopathy denotes healing from
great respect
information for the genius of the
technologies are
and even cowardly. Founder of Homeopathy, we continue to use
used for making homeopathy accessible to people
Hahnemann’s
residing in every term
corner“miasm” today, and
of the country twooutside
centu-
14. Magnesia carbonica.-Suits drinkers of mild li- My Journey in Homeopathy
ries later, but
the country also. it is clear there is confusion amongst
quors, those who make very frequent use of dain-
even skilled
Cadmium: homeopaths
A Caseabout of Bell’swhat is its essen-
Palsy
ties and candies. Shrewd, sad, taciturn, or loqua-
tial meaning andis therefore
Homoeopathy continually its relevance
evolvingto as prac-it
cious. Face livid, or scarlet. Sleeplessness during
tice. To move forward and practice
responds to the changing the response to the effectively we
the night. Sleep during the day. Speaking cease-
need
changing to acknowledge
health needsmiasmof society.as burden of under-
Telehomoeopthy
lessly while drunk.[7] About
lyingbecome our
pathologies Columnist
that the patient
has a convenient medicaleither inherited
care tool; it is
or acquired and the effect of
a cost-effective and efficient mode of treatment, accessory circum-
CONCLUSION stances
especially and in the mode ofscenario
the present treatment of thewhich
COVID has
modified
-19 pandemic. them with rational approach of modern
Thus, the road to recovery is simply understand-
patho - physiology in relation to the individual as
ing the addiction stages and the psychology of the
a whole. So, proved
Francis Treuherz
the concept
patient. There are more than 100 remedies under It has been to beshould
quickbe andadopted
responsivewith
comparison to present scientific
in preventing and curing patients suffering concept to know
the rubric Mind Alcoholism, dipsomania in com-
the
from disease
COVID-19and itspandemic
dynamic aspect. and also has future
plete repertory. The selection of remedy should
be based on individualization and symptom simi- Francis Treuherz MA,
possibilities in medical health care. FSHom, originally a so-
larity. cial scientist, first heard of homeopathy in the
1970s and became a quick convert, studying
REFERENCES
in London, at the new College of Homeopathy,
REFERENCES while simultaneously
1. Niturkar YD. Incorporating lecturing
Hahnemannianat London Uni-in the
principles
practice
versity. ofBytele-homeopathy:
1984 he was Current
in scenario
full-time and future
practice.
1. Alcohol [Internet]. World Health Organization; [cited 2023 Jun possibilities. J Intgr Stand Homoeopathy 2021;4(1):20-8.
1]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/ Former Editor of the Society of Homeopaths’
2. https://www.homeobook.com/telemedicine-practice-guidelines-
detail/alcohol
journal for 10 years, and a Board member for
for-homoeopathic-practitioners-by-cch/
2. Johnson BA, Koob GF, Schuckit MA, Mason BJ, Ait-Daoud N.
Understanding and treating alcohol dependence. Alcoholism: over 20 years,
3. Guidelines for his Homoeopathic
journey in homeopathy Practitionershas for
Clinical and Experimental Research. 2006;30(3):567–8. doi:10.1111/ COVID-19.
seen him 2020. Available
working in from:
an NHS https://www.ayush.gov.in/
practice, effec-
j.1530-0277.2005.00066.x docs/126.pdf [Last accessed on 2020 Dec 18]
tive on the homeopathic helpline, bringing
4. Eswara Das. Understanding the Principles of Homeopathy on A
3. Sinclair D, Christian C. The Genesis of the Cure for Alcoholism. In:
The cure for alcoholism: The medically proven way to eliminate computer
Research repertories
Perspective. to homeopaths,
J Complement writing2019;
Med Alt Healthcare.
alcohol addiction. Dallas, TX: Benbella Books; 2012. p. 14–9. 9(2): 555756.articles
books, DOI: 10.19080/JCMAH.2019.09.555756.
and book reviews, and being
4. Ciccarelli S, White J. Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders. 5. Hahnemann
a trusteeS. of Dudgeon R. E. Organon
the British of medicine. 5th
Homeopathic ed. New
Asso-
In: Psychology: DSM 5. Boston: Pearson; 2014. p. 493–4. Delhi: B Jain Publishers(P) Ltd; 2002.
ciation and the Homeopathic Action Trust. An
5. Oroszi G, Goldman D. Alcoholism: Genes and
mechanisms. Pharmacogenomics. 2004;5(8):1042–5. incurable collector of homeopathic artefacts,
doi:10.1517/14622416.5.8.1037
ABOUThis homeopathic
THE AUTHORS: library contains - more than
6. Kumar A, Sharma A, Bansal PD, Bahetra M, Gill HK, Kumar R. A 12,500 books.
comparative study on the safety and efficacy of naltrexone versus 1. Dr Vandana Gupta, Junior Resident
Baclofen versus Acamprosate in the management of alcohol
dependence [Internet]. U.S. National Library of Medicine; 2020 ADoctor,
Man of kindness, Dept. enthusiasm
of Case Taking & Repertory,
and huge sense
[cited 2023 Jun 1]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ State
of National
humour, Francis marks Homoeopathic
his 80th birthday Medical
in
pmc/articles/PMC8052868/ College
2021 withand his Hospital, Lucknow.
book ‘My Journey in Homeopa-
7. Gallavardin J-P, Gallavardin E. Alcoholism and criminality:
Medical Treatment of Alcoholism and Intoxication. In: Psychism 2. Drthy- Much
SapnaAdo About Nothing’–
Nagwar, A celebration
Junior Resident Doctor,
and homoeopathy: Treatment of passions, vices, defects of of his life’s
Dept. work inofHomoeopathy.
organon medicine and homeopathic
characters and of intelligence: All psychic manifestations and philosophy. State National Homoeopathic Medical
tendencies of human being. New Delhi: Jain; 1997. p. 94–9.
This column
College and is an excerpt
Hospital, from this book.
Lucknow.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR 3. Dr Tanushree Das Gupta, Junior Resident
Doctor, Dept. of Materia Medica, State National
1. Deepanshi Dhama, BHMS student, Bakson Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital,
Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow.
Greater Noida
continued on page........46

32 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
Case Report

CONCLUSION
Role Of Homoeopathy In Alcoholism
Though superficially, the presentation of patient
is found in many remedies, the basic core of the Dr. Shwetha Shree
patient differentiates the remedy and we can
reach the similimum. Causative factor and the
reaction pattern belong to the core and help in
individualisation.
ABSTRACT Finer aspects of patient’s core
feelings help in remedy differentiation.
Alcohol is a psychoactive substance with dependence-producing properties that has been widely used in many
cultures
The for centuries.
marked feature ofThe harmful use of alcohol
Menispermeaceae familycauses a high burden of disease and has significant social
isand
theeconomic
profound consequences.
weakness Alcohol
of the consumption
kidney andis a contributory factor in a substantial number of health
conditions. Drinking
genitourinary alcoholwhich
complaints is alsopoints
associated with a risk of developing a number of mental and behavioural
to Pareira
disorders.
brava.

REFERENCES
Keywords: alcoholism, homoeopathy, alcohol addiction, delirium tremens.
1. Dr.Mahesh Gandhi, Personal Evolution Model The Foundation
Book, first edition reprint 2019; New Delhi, published by The
General Manager Crossbill Publishing Co., pages 61, page 63,
page 65, page 135, page 88 miasmatic disorder, Syphilitic Miasm.3
INTRODUCTION

A
2. ICD Code
lcoholism or alcohol use disorder is a medical Aetiology
condition
3. Synthesis characterized
1.3 app, by an
created by Archibel SA,impaired ability
based on Synthesis The etiology of alcoholism and drug addiction is
Repertory version 2009, Editor Dr. Frederik Schroyens.
to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse best understood as a complex interaction between
social, genetic and environmental factors (Gorski, 2003)
Michal occupational, or health
ORDER consequences.
1
4. Yakir,Ph.D, WONDROUS Systematic Table Of
Alcohol use is quite common in India both in
Homoeopathic Plant Remedies Book One : Flowering Plants, 7 th disease. The World Health Organisation model
edition,Hebrew, English, 2016, Kandern, Narayan Verlag, page
rural recognizes three basic elements of the disease of
164, and urban areas with prevalence rates as per
page 166
various studies varying from 23% to 74% in males addiction: (1) a susceptible host, (2) a toxic agent,
in I.C.R
5. general and although
OPERATIONAL MANUAL, it’sEditor
not that common
Dr. Anand in
R. Kapse, and (3) a permissive environment (WHO, 2007).
second edition, 2003; published by Dr. M.L. Dhawale Memorial
females but it has been found to be prevalent at It is evident that different people have different
trust; page 102 to 105
the rate 24% to 48 % in females in certain sections susceptibility to addiction once they ingest alco-
and communities. In 2005 the estimated numbers hol and/or drugs1.
ABOUT
of THE alcohol
people using AUTHOR in India was 62.5 million
Biological factors
with 17.4 % of them (10.6 million) having alcohol
1.
use Dr Vaishali
disorder and ofP.all Joshi,
hospital M.D (Hom.),
admissions in
Homoeopathic Physician • Hereditary Children of alcoholics become
India 20-30% are due to alcohol related problems.2
alcoholic about 4 times more than those of
Individuals with an alcohol addiction may go to
non-alcoholics while over 40% had a parent-
extreme measures such as stealing, lying, hiding
usually the father-who is alcoholic.
alcohol, drinking household cleaners that contain
alcohol and other unhealthy behaviours to obtain • Comorbid psychiatric disorder or personality
alcohol due to cravings and the fear of withdrawal. disorder.
In the absence of alcohol, these individuals can • Comorbid medical disorders.
experience withdrawal symptoms, which are • Withdrawal effects and craving.
characterized by agitation, tremors, hot flashes,
increased heart rate, and blood pressure, nausea
and vomiting, and seizures. Withdrawing from Biochemical factors
alcohol can be lethal, and therefore, individuals
A genetically determined deficiency of brain neu-
should seek professional help when trying to
rotransmitters (endorphins) predisposes an indi-
quit their drinking habit. Homoeopathy put this
vidual to alcoholism.
disease under the most virulent and destructive

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 33

 Subjective
parental factors.
• Imitating behavior of important others.
• Ease of availability.
• Strictness of law enforcement.
• Poor social/familial support.
• Permissive social attitudes.
Psychological factors • Rapid urbanization.
Pathophysiology
• Curiosity; need for novelty seeking.
• General rebelliousness and social non-conformity. There are large volumes of scientific literature
• Early imitation of alcohol and tobacco. showing that addictive drugs target the brain,
• Poor impulse control. specifically its reward pathways ( Berridge ,
1998; Robinson, 1993). The reward pathways
• Sensation-seeking (high).
evolved to promote activities that are essential to
• Low self-esteem the survival of the human race, as well as other
• Poor stress management skills. animals lower on the phylogenetic tree, such as
• Childhood trauma or loss. successful reproduction and procurement of
• Relief from fatigue and/or boredom. adequate nutrition.4
• Lack of interest in conventional goals. Clinical types
Social factors 1. According to Jellinek, there are five ‘species’
of alcoholism on the basis of the patterns of
• Peer pressure, often more important than use, and not on the basis of severity.5

A. Alpha ● Excessive and appropriate drinking to re-

lieve physical and/or emotional pain

● No loss of control

● Ability to abstain present.

B. Beta ● Excessive and appropriate drinking

● Physical complications, e.g. cirrhosis, gas-

tritis and neuritis, due to cultural drinking
patterns and poor nutrition

● No dependence
C. Gamma (malignant alcoholism) 2
● Progressive course

● Physical dependence with tolerance and

withdrawal symptoms

● Psychological dependence, with inability to

control drinking

34 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective

D. Delta ● Inability to abstain

● Tolerance

● Withdrawal symptoms

● The amount of alcohol consumed can be

controlled

● Social disruption is minimal

E. Epsilon ● Dipsomania (compulsive-drinking)

● Spree- drinking5

2. According to Cloninger, alcoholism is of two 4. There is a persistent desire or there are

types- Type-1, and Type-11. This is on the basis of unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control
genetic and environmental factors. alcohol use.
5. A great deal of time is spent in activities
Signs and Symptoms of Addiction necessary to obtain alcohol, use alcohol or
recover from its effects.
The DSM-IV (1994) places a heavy weight upon
the “pattern of compulsive use” as the primary 6. Important social, occupational, or recreational
factor distinguishing between abuse and depen- activities are given up or reduced because of
dence. The DSM-IV has categorized three stages alcohol use.
of addiction: 7. Alcohol use is continued despite knowledge
of having a persistent or recurrent physical or
• Preoccupation and anticipation psychological problem that is likely to have
• Binge and intoxication been caused or exacerbated by the alcohol.6
Prominent addictionologist Terence Gorski
• Withdrawal and negative affect (mood)
elaborated on signs and symptoms referred to
According to the DSM-IV, the pattern of com-
in the DSM-IV and described a progression of
pulsive use is marked by the following signs and
pathological thoughts and behaviors related to
symptoms:
progressive pathological alteration of the brain’s
reward system.
1. Tolerance, as defined by either of the following:
• A need for markedly increased amounts of How can drinking too much affect me?
alcohol to achieve intoxication or desired
effect. Drinking too much alcohol can damage your
• Markedly diminished effect with continued health. It’s associated with:
use of the same amount of alcohol.
• Brain damage, including dementia.
2. Withdrawal, as defined by either of the
following: • Despair, depression and suicide.
• The characteristic withdrawal syndrome for • Cancers of the breast, liver, colon and mouth.
alcohol. • Fetal alcohol syndrome (if exposed to alcohol
• Alcohol is taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal before birth).
symptoms. • Accidents (like falls or burns) and injuries
3. Alcohol is often taken in larger amounts or (like fractures or drowning).
over a longer period than was intended. • Liver problems, such

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 35

 Subjective
as cirrhosis, hepatitis and fatty liver. Rubrics From Boriecke’s Repertory in Context
• Blackouts, assaults, DUIs and even homicide. of Alcoholism 9
• Alcoholic (delirium tremens)
Frequent or heavy drinking can also lead to per-
sonal problems, such as trouble with: Homoeopathic Remedies for Alcoholism 2
• ANGELICA : Angelica (in tincture, five
• Money. drops, three times daily, produces disgust for
• Personal relationships. liquor.9
• Work. • APOCYNUM CANNABINUM: Effective for
curing great craving for alcohol. The patients
Treatment are low spirited and experience anxiety
and depression. There is severe nausea and
• Behavioural therapies: Counselling, or talk vomiting.
therapy, with a healthcare provider like a • ARSENIC ALBUM: It stops the craving for
psychologist or mental health counsellor alcohol and helps in reducing the ill effects
can teach ways to change your behaviour. of excessive alcoholism. Arsenic patient
Motivational, cognitive-behavioural, experiences great anxiety, restlessness and
contingency and 12-step facilitation are the fear of death. There are delirium tremens.
most commonly used techniques.7
• CAMPHOR: It should be tried when Angelica
Homoeopathic Approach to Treat Alcohol Addiction failed in controlling alcoholism. There is
coldness in the stomach followed by burning.
Rubrics From Synthesis Repertory in Context of
Alcoholism • CAPSICUM ANNUM: It is effective for
controlling great desire for alcohol.
• CHINA OFFICINALIS: It will remove the
craving for alcohol in drunkards who wish to
reform. Liver and spleen enlarged.
• NUX VOMICA: When your alcoholism is in its
earliest stages, then it becomes easier to leave
this addiction. For those people who have just
started to fall prey to alcohol, Nux Vomica is a
wonder medicine. It is administered for faster
relief against your drinking problem.8
• QUERCUS GLANDIUM SPIRITUS: takes
away craving for alcoholics; Dropsy and liver
• Mind- Ailments from- alcoholism affections. 9
• Mind- Delirium Tremens • STERCULIA: An effective remedy for
alcoholism. It promotes appetite and digestion
• Mind- Dipsomania and lessens the craving for alcohol.
• Mind-Drinking-more than she should • SULPHURIC ACID: It is one of the top
• Mind-Drunkenness; symptoms during remedies for alcoholism. The patient
• Mind- Libertinism experiences heartburn, sour eructations
• Mind-Alcoholism and sour vomiting. Craving for alcohol is
an important symptom of this remedy. It is
• Generals- Family History of- alcoholism
prescribed when water causes coldness of the
• Generals- Food and Drinks-alcoholic drinks- stomach, and must be mixed with liquors.
desire
• SULPHUR: It should be tried when China
• Generals-Intoxication, after fails. The patient continued
has greaton desire
page........48
to drink

36 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
alcohol all the time. Wants to drink from Diseases requires resolute action by countries,
morning till evening or till awake. effective global governance and appropriate
engagement of all significant patrons. By working
Homoeopathic Remedies for The Bad Effects of
together effectively, the negative health and
Alcoholism
social consequences of alcohol can be reduced.
• AVENA SATIVA: It is prescribed for Homoeopathic approach of treating patients on a
sleeplessness and nervousness in drunkards. holistic level, together with individual and family
It helps to relax the senses and detoxifies the psychotherapy, has shown to be highly effective in
body against alcohol.8 addressing the issues that may have contributed
• CARBONEUM SULPH: It is very useful for to and resulted from the development of alcohol
people broken down by abuse of alcohol. 9 use disorder.
• CARDUUS MARIANUS: It is very effective
for liver troubles, liver pain, and constipation REFERENCES
alternating with diarrhoea seen in chronic 1. Gopi DKS. Homeopathy for Alcohol Use Disorders [Internet].
LinkedIn. [cited 2023Mar26]. Available from: https://www.
alcoholics especially beer drinkers.1 linkedin.com/pulse/homeopathy-alcohol-use-disorders-dr-ks-
• COFFEA CRUDA: It is effective for headache gopi
due to alcoholism. 2. Mohan D., Chopra A. Ray R and Sethi H.Alcohol consumption
patterns in India a cross sectional study in A Demers R Room
• CROTALUS HORRIDUS: Gastritis in chronic and C Bourgault Eds Surveys of drinking patterns and problems
in seven developing_nations. [cited 2023Mar26]. Available
alcoholism.9 from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/279015525_5_
• CHIMAPHILA UMBELLATA - Hepatic and Mohan_D_Chopra_A_Ray_R_and_Sethi_H_Alcohol_
consumption_patterns_in_India_a_cross_sectional_study_in_A_
renal dropsies; chronic alcoholics. Incipient Demers_R_Room_and_C_Bourgault_Eds_Surveys_of_drinking_
and progressive cataracts. (BOERICKE) patterns_and_problems_in_seven_developing_nations. Indian J
Community Med. page 103-114
• GELSEMIUM SEMPERVIRENS: It is 3. Dr. Binimol. A pilot study of effectiveness of homoeopathic
prescribed when nervous symptoms are treatment in management of alcoholism. [cited 2023Mar26].
Available from: https://www.homeobook.com/pdf/alcohol-
predominant in alcoholics. There is excessive homeopathy.pdf
trembling and weakness of all limbs. 1 4. Teresi L, Haroutunian HL. Hijacking the brain: How drug and
• OPIUM: Delirium tremors over and over alcohol addiction hijacks our brains ; the science behind twelve-
Step Recovery. Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse; 2011. Page-38-9
again. Expression of fright or terror on face.
5. Apa Dictionary of Psychology [Internet]. American Psychological
Breathing strenuous visions of animals and Association. American Psychological Association; [cited
ghosts with uneasy sleep. Face dark red. 2023Mar26]. Available from: https://dictionary.apa.org/jellineks-
alcoholism-species
• PETROLEUM: It is effective when the 6. Guze Samuel b. Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental
drunkards are seen without energy, without disorders, 4th ed. (DSM-IV). [cited 2023Mar26]. Available from:
https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/ajp.152.8.1228
strength of will, unable to refuse a glass of
7. Harikrishnan U, Ali A. A case study of alcohol dependence
wine. Vomiting after the least excess in drinks. syndrome with poor motivation and coping skills: The
The patient talks too much when drunk. psychosocial perspective. Open J Psychiatry Allied Sci. 2019 Jan-
Jun 2017;8:87.
• RANUNCULUS BULBOSUS: It is effective 8. Dr. Deepanjali. Alcohol addiction and ways homeopathy can
for mental attacks of drunkards. It cures coma help you leaving it! [Internet]. Lybrate. Lybrate; 2017 [cited
due to heavy drinking of alcohol and other 2023Mar26]. Available from: https://www.lybrate.com/topic/
alcohol-addiction-and-ways-homeopathy-can-help-you-leaving-
bad effects of alcohol. it/1549f7b0c96e35ebaac7c5fd4d35cf08
• SECALE CORNUTUM: Insomnia of drug 9. Boericke W, Boericke’s New Manual of Homoeopathic Materia
Medica with Repertory ;3rd Revised & Augmented Edition Based
and liquor habitudes.9 on Ninth Edition, B. Jain Publishers;2014

CONCLUSION ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Achieving a reduction in the harmful use of 1. Dr Shwetha Shree, Junior Resident Doctor,
alcohol in line with the targets included in the Dept. of Organon Of Medicine, State National
Sustainable Development Goals 2030 agenda Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital,
and the World Health Organisation Global Lucknow
Monitoring Framework for Non communicable

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 37

 Subjective

Alcoholism and Addiction Treatment with

Homeopathy: A Comprehensive Guide In Italics
Dr Shreya K Mehta

ABSTRACT
Homeopathy has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including alcoholism and addiction. Ho-
meopathic remedies work by stimulating the body’s own healing mechanism, promoting detoxification, and
reducing withdrawal symptoms. This article explores the role of homeopathy in the management of alcoholism
and addiction, highlighting some of the most Traditional to Rare Remedies.

Keywords: Homeopathy, Alcoholism, Addiction, Remedies, Withdrawal symptoms.

Abbreviations: National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC), Alcohol use disorder (AUD)

INTRODUCTION problems caused by it. Addiction, on the other

hand, is a complex condition that is characterized
A ccording to a survey conducted by the NDDTC
in 2019-2020, alcohol remains the primary
substance of abuse in India. The survey found that
by compulsive substance use despite harmful con-
sequences. It is a chronic and relapsing condition
that can result in disability or premature death.[2]
approximately 16 crore Indians (about 16% of the Causes: Genetics may play a role in the suscepti-
population) consume alcohol, with the majority bility to substance abuse.[3] Environmental factors
being men. Additionally, alcohol use disorders such as stress, trauma, and social influences-peer
affect about 3% of the population. Alcoholism pressure can also contribute.
and addiction are complicated diseases with
negative effects on both the person and society Psychological factors such as personality traits,
at large.[2] While traditional medical approaches mental health disorders, and cognitive processes.
to treating these disorders, such therapy and
detoxification, have been used, homeopathy has What happens when alcohol enters the body?
also shown potential. A comprehensive approach
to medicine, homeopathy emphasizes treating the Alcohol affects the brain by crossing the blood-
whole person rather than simply the symptoms. It brain barrier, which is a semi-permeable mem-
entails the application of medicines from plants, brane that prevents toxins from entering the
animals, or minerals that have been extremely brain.[4] Alcohol interferes with the actions of neu-
diluted in an effort to boost the body’s natural rotransmitters, which are chemicals in neurons
healing process.[1] that transmit signals from the brain to the target
organ. Excitatory neurotransmitters increase tar-
get organ activity, while inhibitory neurotrans-
Definition: AUD is a pattern of alcohol use that mitters decrease it. Alcohol inhibits the action of
leads to clinically significant impairment or dis- excitatory neurotransmitters and increases the ac-
tress. It is characterized by several symptoms, in- tivity of inhibitory neurotransmitters, resulting in
cluding persistent desire to drink, failure to fulfill a state of euphoria, a feeling of intense well-being
major role obligations, and continued alcohol use and happiness. Alcohol is metabolized mainly in
despite knowledge of physical or psychological the liver, with a small amount being metabolized

38 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
in the stomach. The majority of alcohol is excreted heart disease, heart enlargement, abnormal heart
by the body through urine, sweat, and exhalation. rhythms, blood clots, and stroke.
[4]
Reproductive system: Heavy drinking impairs
fertility in both men and women by reducing tes-
How do people get alcohol addictions?
ticle and ovary size, as well as interfering with
Neuroadaptation describes alterations or ‘adapta- sperm and egg production.
tions’ that take place in the brain in response to
Pregnancy and Alcoholism: Maternal alcohol
repetitive stimulation. When alcohol or any other
consumption during pregnancy can have severe
drug is taken in excess beyond what the body
negative effects on fetal development, including
needs, the brain begins to develop a tolerance to it
physical and neurological abnormalities, mental
or an adaptation to its chemistry in order to coun-
retardation, behavioral problems, cognitive diffi-
teract the effects of the drug. Once neuroadapta-
culties, and facial malformations.
tion has taken place, the removal of alcohol from
the body causes a withdrawal symptom[3] Alcohol withdrawal: After consuming alcohol
over an extended period of time, a person be-
Signs & Symptoms
comes so reliant on it that when he tries to cut
Acute Alcoholism Symptoms: back on his intake [4], he experiences a range of
Alcohol affects the way that neurotransmitters symptoms known as withdrawal symptoms. De-
operate in the brain by interacting with them. Al- pending on when they first appear, symptoms are
cohol’s depressed effects make it challenging to divided into three stages: -
walk, bad balance. Speech slurring and lack of
• Stage 1 (mild) appears six to seven hours after
coordination. A problem with peripheral vision.
the last drink: Heart palpitations, palpitations,
A person’s respiration and heart rate may slow
anxiety, sleeplessness, nausea, vomiting,
down at higher alcohol concentrations, and they
abdominal discomfort, lack of appetite,
may vomit, which carries a high risk of being
exhaustion, tremors, depression, fuzzy
breathed into the lungs and leading to aspiration
thinking, and anxiety.
pneumonia. Higher alcohol concentrations could
cause a coma and perhaps death. • Stage 2 (moderate) emerges 12 to 24 hours
Chronic Symptoms of Alcoholism: after the previous alcoholic beverage: Blood
pressure that is higher than normal, changes
Nervous system: Alcohol abuse leads to sleep dis- in body temperature and respiration, an
turbances, numbness, tingling, and neurological irregular heartbeat, mental disorientation,
disorders like Wernicke’s syndrome and Korsa- perspiration, impatience, and more severe
koff’s syndrome, causing mental confusion, am- mood swings [4]
nesia, impaired memory, and physical coordina-
tion issues. • In the first one or two days after the last
drink: Stage 3 (severe/delirium tremens) begins
Gastrointestinal system: Alcohol can cause in-
to manifest: severe disorientation, agitation,
flammation of the stomach, ulcers, acid reflux,
fever, seizures, and hallucinations.
esophageal varices, pancreatitis, malnutrition,
and liver problems such as fatty liver, inflamma- Homeopathic Treatment
tion, and cirrhosis. Homeopathic remedies can be considered for
Blood and immunity: Alcohol affects blood cells, symptom management in alcoholism, with spe-
resulting in enlarged red blood cells, decreased cific medicines mentioned for different systems
white blood cells, weakened immune system, in- affected: Agaricus, Cannabis indica, and Hyo-
creased infection risk, and a higher likelihood of scyamus for nervous symptoms, Avena sativa,
bleeding. Nux vomica, and Acid-sulphuricum for gastric
symptoms, China, Nux vomica, Avena sativa,
Heart: Alcohol consumption initially lowers
and Pulsatilla for alcohol withdrawal symptoms,
blood pressure but can lead to hypertension
and Strophanthus, Cocculus indicus,
continued on and Canna-
page........48
with increased intake. It also increases the risk of
bis indica for cardiac symptoms.[5] Avena sativa,

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 39

Subjective
Cannabis indica, and Zincum are suggested for efforts to escape. Constant insomnia is an excel-
restoring fertility in alcohol addicts. lent indication; outburst of laughter alerting with
Agaricus muscarius - Homeopathic treatment for weeping may also occur.
alcoholism that is made worse by movement, co- Opium - This is a remedy indicated in “old sin-
itus, or pressure touch. Headaches with swelling ners” who have had the delirium tremens over
head sensation. Loquacity.[4] Agaricus exhibits in- and over again. There is a constant expression
tense mental agitation, speaks incoherently, and of fear or panic, they see ghosts, have images of
alternates between immoderate gait and depres- animals appearing everywhere, and their breath-
sion. A small hole looks to be a terrifying chasm, ing is Sertorius. Opium causes an abrupt awak-
and a teaspoon of water appears to be a vast lake. ening from sleep due to a choking sensation in
The perception of the relative scale of items is lost, the throat. The predominant mental trait is fear,
and the person takes long steps and jumps over and all illusions and hallucinations cause fear and
small objects as if they were tree trunks. Can lift horror. He tries to flee as he sees visions of beasts
hefty loads thanks to greater physical strength. charging him from all directions. Suicidal pro-
Uncontrollable muscle twitching and spasms pensity continually irritated by insects and other
known as chorea that go away after sleep. pests he sees on himself and relentlessly tries to
Avena Sativa - When an alcoholic suffers from brush them off.
anxiety and insomnia to the point of delirium Sulphuric acid - This homeopathic remedy is for
tremens, Avena sativa is a helpful treatment. It is long-term alcoholism. Patients who are chilly,
also a helpful treatment for cocaine and opium shriveled, and pallid, and whose stomachs can-
addictions. not handle even a small amount of food. They
Arsenic album - Diseases caused by excessive al- can only drink water that has been thoroughly
cohol usage. Cirrhosis of the liver. It sees ghosts whisked. They are hurried and rapid in every-
and is quite feeble. Patients must consume their thing, and they constantly crave brandy. It ap-
usual beverages. Significant trembling and weak- pears long after Nux vomica and other treatments
ness.[5] Suicidal inclination and a persistent at- have repeatedly failed to work. Alcoholic dyspep-
tempt to brush off insects and other vermin that sia’s bad breath and vomiting are appropriate for
he sees on himself. Patients with arsenic are agi- it.
tated, fearful, and chilly. Stramonium - It is suitable for habitual drunk-
Cannabis indica - An effective homeopathic treat- ards. The predominant mental trait is fear, and all
ment for alcoholism, particularly in cases of acute illusions and hallucinations cause fear and horror.
alcoholism. It is surrounded by some aggression, He tries to flee as he sees visions of beasts charg-
talkativeness, and mentally active individuals. ing him from all directions. In contrast to Opium,
Delusions and hallucinations are related to inflat- stramonium has a brighter red face. Suicidal pro-
ed concepts of time, space, etc. Face flushed, eyes pensity continually irritated by insects and other
dilated, and easy perspiration. pests he sees on himself and relentlessly tries to
brush them off.
Hyoscyamus - When delirium tremens (Severe
alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, Nux vomica - When the patient gets a headache, a
confusion, high blood pressure, fever and halluci- tremor, and foul taste.
nations.) This is usually one of the first remedies It also resembles delirium tremens, which is char-
indicated. The delirium is constant and loqua- acterized by severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms
cious. The pulse is small and quick and compress- like shivering, confusion, and hallucinations. In
ible, the skin is cold and clammy, The patient is this condition, every sound terrifies the victim,
tremulous and picks constantly at objects in the who is unable to find peace anywhere and wakes
air. Marked sexual excitement, desire to expose a up at night with terrifying visions.
person and fear of poison. The visions are those of
persecution, are terrifying, and the patient makes Gastric disturbance, ugliness, and irritation are all

40 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
characteristics of the tremor. It is a treatment that Page 52-61. http://www.indianjpsychiatry.org/
should be administered while the patient is still article.asp?issn=0019-5545;year=2020;volume=6
drinking or in any stage of alcoholism. Headache, 2;issue=7;spage=52;epage=61;aulast=Lakshmi;t
morning hangover. ype=2
2. American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic
CONCLUSION and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
5th ed. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric
By taking into account the physical, emotional, Publishing; 2013.
and psychological elements of alcoholism and
addiction, homeopathy provides a comprehen- 3. Galanter M, Kleber HD, editors. The American
sive approach to treating these illnesses. Homoe- Psychiatric Association’s Textbook of Substance
opathy emphasizes individualized treatment, Abuse Treatment. 5th ed. Arlington, VA:
focusing on specific symptoms and traits of each American Psychiatric Publishing; 2015.
person. Remedies such as Nux Vomica, Arsenic 4. Hpathy. Homeopathy for Alcoholism and
album, and Sulphuric acid have traditionally Alcohol Addiction. India. Dr. Manish Bhatia.
been used to address cravings, withdrawal, and August 27, 2009. https://hpathy.com/cause-
emotional distress. Homeopathy should be inte- symptoms-treatment/alcoholism/
grated into a comprehensive treatment plan that 5. Boericke W. Boericke’s New Manual of
includes counseling, support groups, and medical Homeopathic Materia Medica with Repertory.
interventions as necessary. 3rd ed. New Delhi: B. Jain Publishers; 2001.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

REFERENCES
1. Dr. Shreya K. Mehta, PG Scholar (Organon of
1. NDDTC. Magnitude of Substance Use in medicine & philosophy), Rajkot Homeopathic
India. Aulast & Laxmi. 2020. Vol 62. Issue 7. Medical College, Parul University.

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 41

 Subjective

Alcoholism and Addiction: Role of

Homoeopathy
Dr Khatoon N, Dr Padhy P, Dr Mondal R

ABSTRACT
Alcohol is a CNS depressant. Alcohol is a habit forming substance. Drinking alcohol does not produce any benefit
for the person who drinks it except a temporary feeling of euphoria and being free of inhibitions. On the other
side it produces many negative effects on the person’s health, family as well as the community. Alcoholism is a
common social problem which may be associated with risk factors and other comorbidities. Sudden termina-
tion of alcohol intake results in withdrawal symptoms. Homeopathy is a holistic system of medicine in treatment
of patients by individualization. So homeopathic remedies help to check the withdrawal symptoms and at the
same time reduce the craving towards alcohol.

Keywords: alcohol, euphoria, health, risk factors, homoeopathy

INTRODUCTION Substance Use Disorders - This term confines

both dependence on and abuse of drugs usually

I n 2067-2025 B.C., the King Hammurabi

of Babylonia, popularized the sale and
consumption of alcohol. The word ‘Alcoholism’
taken voluntarily for the purpose of their effect
on the central nervous system (usually referred as
intoxication) or to prevent or reduce withdrawal
was first instigated by Magnus Huss. The word symptoms. These mental disorders form a subdi-
‘Alcohol’ was derived from Arabic word ‘al-kohl’ vision of the substance-related disorders.3, 4
meaning ‘essence’.1
The modern medical classification does not use According to World Health Organization, psy-
drug abuse and alcohol abuse as diagnostic la- choactive substance use poses a significant threat
bels. The DSM-IV classification uses blanket to health, and the social and economic fabric of
terms – Substance Dependence, Substance Abuse families, communities and nations.5
and Substance Use Disorders.2
The global burden of these three psychoactive
Substance Dependence - When an individual substance groups varies across the WHO regions.
continues in use of alcohol or other drugs despite The level of economic development in countries
problems related to use of the substance, sub- also plays an important role. The burden from
stance dependence may be diagnosed. Irresist- psychoactive substance use is higher in the de-
ible and repetitive use may result in tolerance to veloped countries than in the high mortality
the effect of the drug and withdrawal symptoms developing countries.5
when use is reduced or stopped. These, along
with Substance Abuse are regarded Substance Alcoholism: It is characterized by significant
Use Disorders.3, 4 physical and psychological health problems de-
pendence on alcohol. People with an alcohol ad-
Substance Abuse - When repeated use of alcohol diction want to drink in order to function.6
or other drugs leads to problems but does not in-
clude compulsive use or addiction, and stopping Causes of Alcoholism1
the drug does not lead to significant withdrawal
The abnormal pattern of drinking that constitutes
symptoms the term substance abuse applies.3, 4 continued on page........48
alcohol abuse may begin with a desire to reach a

42 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
state of feeling high. Some drinkers who find the and have a disturbed relationship with their
feeling rewarding then pivot on repeatedly reach- family.
ing that state. • Societal factors – Perspectives transmitted
through the culture or child rearing affect
• Many people, who exploit alcohol chronically, patterns of drinking and consequent behavior.
have certain personality traits; feeling of
• There is evidence of genetic or biochemical
isolation, loneliness, shyness, depression,
predisposition, including data suggesting
dependency, hostile and self-destructive
that some people who become alcoholics are
impulses and sexual immaturity.
less easily intoxicated i.e. they have increased
• Drunkards may come from broken home threshold for CNS effects.

Pathology of Alcoholic Dependency1

4 distinct phases are present.

Pre-alcoholic symptomatic phase Person commences drinking as conventional social situa-

tions and soon experiences relief from tension. As the time
advances, tolerance for tension decreases and almost daily
alcohol consumption begins. Alteration may take several
months to years.

Prodromal phase This phase is noticeable by the sudden onset of blackouts,

the drinker may show signs of intoxication and may be able
to carry on a reasonable conversation or go through detailed
activities but will have no memory of it. Certain correlated
behavior like surreptitious drinking, avoid drinking, guilt
feelings and avoidance of references to alcohol.
Crucial phase It is characterized by the loss of control over drinking mean
that consumption of alcohol seems to trigger a chain reac-
tion that continues until either sick or intoxicated. Begins
to drop friends and jobs which lead to isolation and further
centering of behavior around alcohol. It can further take to
phase of impediment as improper nutrition and alcoholic
jealousy syndrome. As he becomes a morning drinker, he
enters the chronic phase.

Chronic phase Finds he intoxicated. There is also marked impairment in

thinking process.

Metabolism and Absorption of Alcohol

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 43

 Subjective
CLINICAL FEATURES1 Conventional medicine has little to offer in terms
of pharmacotherapy to help the patients of sub-
Early warning signs include increased consump- stance abuse. The only help available is in the
tion, frequent desire for alcohol, extreme behavior form of counseling and social support. Homeopa-
and morning drinking. It hinders with the ability thy on the other hand has remedies that can assist
to socialize and work. Injuries are common. Inter- the patients of alcohol and drug abuse at various
esting phenomena seen are Hangover, Blackout levels – helping in de-addiction, management of
and increased sexual stimulation but decreased withdrawal and improving the physical and men-
sexual performance. tal constitution of the patients.

COMPLICATIONS6 Repertory is one of the excellent instruments in

the hands of homoeopath only when one knows
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD), Cirrhosis of liver how to use it. We can learn many rubrics related
(CLD), Hypertension (HTN), Stroke etc. to alcoholism in our repertories.

Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome6 RUBRICS FROM KENT’S REPERTORY7

A group of symptoms of variable clustering and MIND - DIPSOMANIA: Ars., bufo., calc., caust.,
degree of severity which occur on cessation or re- con., lach., mag-c., merc., nux-v., op., petr., puls.,
duction of use of alcohol that has been taken re- staph., sulph.
peatedly, usually for a prolonged period and or
in high doses. drinking on the sly: Sulph.

GENERAL MANAGEMENT6 menses, before: Sel

Mind - MANIA-A-POTU: Acon., Agar., ant-c.,

Gradual decrease in intake of alcohol. Yoga, exer-
arn., Ars., bell., bism., calc-s., calc., cann-i., carb-v.,
cise, meditation.
chin., chlol., cimic., coff., crot-h., dig., ferr-p., gels.,
grat., hell., hyos., ign., kali-br., kali-p., Lach., led.,
HOMEOPATHY FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE1, 2, 6
lyc., merc., nat-c., Nat-m., Nux-m., Nux-v., oena.,
Op., phos., puls., ran-b., rhod., rhus-t., ruta., sel.,
Homeopathy is based on the principle ‘Similia Si-
sep., sil., spig., Stram., Stry., sul-ac., sulph., zinc.
milibus Curentur’. Homoeopathy has been used
to aid the patients of alcohol and drug abuse. The VERTIGO - ALCOHOLIC liquors: Caust.,
remedies can be used in three ways: Coloc., Nat-m., Nux-v., verat.

• Tautopathic application of the abused HEAD – CONGESTION, HYPERAEMIA ETC;

substance alcoholic liquors agg.: Calc-s., calc., glon., lach.,
zinc.
• Remedies applied for presenting symptoms
• Remedies concerned according to the STOMACH – DESIRES; alcoholic drinks:
constitutional simillimum Acon., ars-i., Ars., Asar., aster., aur., bov., bry.,
Homeopathic medicines produce promising re- bufo., calc-ar., calc-s., calc., Caps., carb-an., chin.,
sults in cases of both alcohol addiction as well as cic., Crot-h., cub., cupr., fl-ac., gins., hep., iod.,
alcohol withdrawal. Not only it reduces the imme- kreos., lac-c., Lach., lec., led., med., merc., mur-ac.,
diate symptoms, it also works to heal the underly- naja., nat-p., Nux-v., op., phos., plb., psor., puls.,
ing cause, whether inherited, acquired, emotional sel., sep., sol-t-ae., spig., staph., sul-ac., Sulph.,
or psychological and gradually helps the patient syph., tub.
to restore his health. Homoeopathic treatment has
a beneficial role in managing patients with acute STOMACH – HICCOUGH; alcoholic drinks,
alcohol withdrawal symptoms as well. after: Ran.b.

44 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
GENERALITIES - ALCOHOLIC stimulants: Sulphuric Acid – This is the medicine for chronic
Acon., agar., alum., am-m., anac., ant-c., arg-n., alcoholism. It corresponds to inebriates on their
arn., Ars., Asar., Bar-c., Lach., laur., led., lyc., last, who are pale and shriveled and cold, whose
naja., nat-c., nat-m., nux-m., Nux-v., Op., petr., stomach will not tolerate the slightest amount of
puls., Ran-b., rhod., rhus-t., ruta., sabad., sang., food. They cannot drink water unless it is well
Sel., sep., sil., spig., stram., stront., stroph., Sul-ac., whisked.
Sulph., tab.
Syphilinum - Hereditary tendency to take alcohol.
HEAD – PAIN, NAIL AS FROM A; alcoholics,
Antisocial, feels depressed as if going to insane or
after: Ruta
being paralyzed. Delirium at night.
RUBRICS FROM BBCR REPERTORY8
Selenium - They desire for brandy and other
APPETITE – Desire, for alcoholic liquors: Aco.; strong drink. Alcoholics with chronic liver affec-
Arg.; Arn.; ARS.; Aur.; Bov.; Bry.; Calc – c.; Carb tions. Sleeplessness with lascivious thoughts.
– v.; Chin.; Cic.; HEP.; Ign.; Kre.; LACH.; Merc.;
Mos.; Mur – ac.; Naj.; Nat – m.; Nux – m.; Nux – Capsicum - Abstainers from accustomed alcohol-
v.; Op.; Pul.; Rhus – t.; Sele.; Sep.; Sil.; Spi.; Stap.; ics. Prostration and poor digestion of alcoholics.
SUL.; Sul – ac.; Ther. Sleeplessness, delirium tremens, depression with
RUBRICS FROM PHATAK REPERTORY9 suicidal thoughts. Craving for stimulants. Thirsty,
if drinks causes shuddering.
FOOD AND DRINKS – ALCOHOLIC; Agg: Kola - Remedy for drinking habit. It promotes ap-
Ars.; Asar.; Bar – c.; Calc.; Carb – v.; Chin+; Cimi.; petite and digestion and lessens the craving for
Hyo.; Kali – bi.; Lach.; NUX – V.; Op.; Pho.; Puls.; alcohol.
Ran – b.; Sele.; Stram.; Sul.; Sul – ac.; Terb+; Zin.
FOOD AND DRINKS – ALCOHOLIC; Amel:
Aco.; Agar.; Canth.; Con.; Gel.; Lach.; Op.; Sele.; CONCLUSION
Sul – ac.
Homoeopathic treatment of Alcoholism boasts of
HOMOEOPATHIC THERAPEUTICS 1, 6, 10, 11 a much better success along with counseling. Ho-
moeopathic medicines help in de-addiction from
AVENA SATIVA – It is a valuable remedy in alco- alcohol and also help in treating the after effects of
holism where the victim is nervous and sleepless alcoholism. A few large scale multi-centric trials
almost to the point of delirium tremens. are required to confirm the existing research evi-
dence and if found in favor of homeopathy, it will
NUX-VOMICA – It is the great anti-alcoholic rem- help establish homeopathy as the treatment mo-
edy. It corresponds to the tremor, to the nervous dality of choice for all substance abuse patients.
affection, to the headache, to the bad taste. It cor-
responds to delirium tremens, where every little REFERENCES
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medicine-remedies-or-treatment-for-alcoholism. (Accessed 15
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ence of liquor or any of the stages of alcoholism. November 15, 2009. Available at: https://hpathy.com/scientific-
research/homeopathy-for-drug-and-alcohol-abuse/. (Accessed 16
May 2023)
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Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Washington, DC,
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behavenet.com/capsules/disorders/d4class.htm. (Accessed 17
May 2023)

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 45

Subjective

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Approaches to treatment of substance abuse. 1993.
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7. Kent JT. Repertory of the Homoeopathic Materia Medica. 9th public utility property department. The pa-
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11. Allen H.C. Keynotes and Characteristics of Some of the Leading
remedies of the Materia Medica with Bowel Nosodes; Low Price Worse from cold weather, and this appears
ed., New Delhi: B. Jain Publishers (P) Ltd. 2002. to be the causation; especially cold wind of
which there has been much this February.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Complains of paralysis after penicillin; felt
1. Dr. N. Khatoon, Senior Research Fellow (H), face puffed up, observed: not puffed up.
Drug Proving Unit, Bhubaneswar
Left eyebrow will not raise, left eye will not
2. Dr. P. Padhy, Junior Research Fellow (H),
stay shut, or shut at all, left head pain, left
Drug Proving Unit, Bhubaneswar
nostril sensation as if swollen, twitch on
3. Dr. R. Mondal, Lecturer, Dept. of Materia left side of face almost leads to whole body
Medica, Birbhum Vivekananda Homoeopathic spasm.
College & Hospital, Birbhum, West Bengal
History of nervous twitches when run down;
left collarbone fracture, blow to head left and
some pain in left hip.

No involuntary urination, some sweat axillae

night; bowels, nothing abnormal disclosed.

Analysis

Kent has the following intriguing rubrics;

FACE: PARALYSIS: agar., all-c, anac., bar-c.,
cadm., Caust., Cocc., crot-h., cupr., cur., dulc.,
form., graph., iod., kali-chl., kali-p., nux-
v., op., petr., plb., puls., ruta., seneg., stry.,
syph., zinc.

FACE: PARALYSIS: right: arn., caust., hep., kali-

chl., kali-p., phos., plb., sil.

FACE: PARALYSIS: left: all-c., cadm., cur., form.,

continued on page........52

46 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
Case Report

CONCLUSION
Though superficially, the presentation of patient
Alcoholism & Homeopathy
is found in many remedies, the basic core of the Dr. Romal Padsumbiya
patient differentiates the remedy and we can
reach the similimum. Causative factor and the
reaction pattern belong to the core and help in
individualisation.
ABSTRACT Finer aspects of patient’s core
feelings help in remedy differentiation.
Alcohol is a psychoactive substance which seems to have dependency producing qualities. It is used widely for
many
The purposes
marked in various
feature cultures. Alcohol consumption
of Menispermeaceae family leads to many mental and physical disorders, many
isdiseases and accidents.
the profound It not only
weakness harms
of the the person
kidney and who consumes it but also harms other people including
family members,
genitourinary friends, coworkers
complaints and strangers.
which points Homeopathy has been found to be helpful in treating addic-
to Pareira
tion of alcohol to the stage of recovery. Since it takes a holistic approach, it can help an addict to get out of this
brava.
mire of alcoholism.
REFERENCES
Keywords: Alcoholism, alcohol intoxication, alcohol withdrawal syndrome, homeopathic repertory, ho-
meopathic
1. medicines,
Dr.Mahesh Gandhi, rare
Personal medicines.
Evolution Model The Foundation
Book, first edition reprint 2019; New Delhi, published by The
General Manager Crossbill Publishing Co., pages 61, page 63,
page 65, page 135, page 88
INTRODUCTION
2. ICD Code

A lcohol abuse is the pattern of consuming

3. Synthesis 1.3 app, created by Archibel SA, based on Synthesis
alcohol
Repertory that2009,
version results
Editorin
Dr.harm
social and psychological health [1].
toSchroyens.
Frederik one’s physical,

4. Michal Yakir,Ph.D,
Alcohol misuse leadsWONDROUS
to acuteORDER Systematic
alcohol Table Of
intoxication
Homoeopathic Plant Remedies Book One : Flowering Plants, 7th
(alcohol poisoning)
edition,Hebrew, English,or alcohol
2016, dependency
Kandern, (alco-
Narayan Verlag, page
hol use disorder).An adult of legal drinking age
164, page 166
can choose not to drink or to drink in moderation
5. I.C.R OPERATIONAL MANUAL, Editor Dr. Anand R. Kapse,
bysecond
limiting the2003;
edition, intake to 2bydrinks
published Dr. M.L.or less inMemorial
Dhawale a day
fortrust;
men and
page 1021todrink
105 or less in a day for women.[2]

ACUTE ALCOHOL INTOXICATION :- Acute

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
alcohol intoxication is a clinically harmful condi- • Less than 500 mg/dl- Loquacity, subjective
tion that usually follows the ingestion of a large feeling of well being
1. Dr Vaishali P. Joshi, M.D (Hom.), • 500-1000 mg/dl- Inebriation, slurred speech,
amount of alcohol in a short period of time.
Homoeopathic Physician emotional instability, in coordination and loss
Clinical features [ 3, 4,5 ] of sensory perception
• 1000-5000 mg/dl- Intoxication that includes
1. CNS depression Ethanol is a CNS depressant, Loss of sensory perception, Muscular
in small quantities interferes with function incoordination, Ataxia, blurred or double
of several neurotransmitter system like vision, convulsions or coma.
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid receptor),
• More than 5000 mg/dl- Very severe
glutamate system and serotonin system and
intoxication that includes coma, hyporeflexia,
predominantly affects frontal cortical control
hypothermia, respiratory depression, poor
and in larger doses, may depress medullary
airway protection.
function.The effects of ethanol on CNS are
generally proportional to blood ethanol 2. Vasodilation: Ethanol causes peripheral
concentration i.e. vasodilatation that may result in hypothermia
and hypotension in highly intoxicated
individual.

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 47

 Subjective

3. Hypoglycemia: There is inhibition of hepatic lipolysis and ketogenesis all together. Onset of
gluconeogenesis that results in hypoglycemia, ketoacidosis follows an ethanol free interval
particularly when poisoning follows fasting, with frequent vomiting so ethanol may be
exercise or chronic malnutrition. Typically, undetectable in blood.
alcohol-induced hypoglycemia occurs within • Amnesia and hangover
6–36 hours after ingestion of a moderate
• Accidents and injuries sustained in any fight
to large amount of alcohol. Usual features
of hypoglycemia like flushing, sweating, • Aspiration of vomitus: leads to coma or
tachycardia are absent but may be present death.
with hypothermia and comatose conditions.
Alcohol Use Disorder [2,6]
4. Lactic acidosis: Usually, it is not so common
but it is a serious complication and occurs in Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition
patients especially with severe liver disease, which is characterized by inability to stop or
pancreatitis or sepsis. control alcohol use regardless of the adverse
5. Alcoholic ketoacidosis: It may develop in social, occupational, or health consequences. It
alcoholics who recently start to consume covered the terms such as alcohol abuse, alcohol
alcohol in heavy amounts. It occurs when a dependence, alcohol addiction, and the colloquial
person has dehydration, glucopenia, increased term, alcoholism. Considered a brain disorder,
AUD can be mild, moderate, or severe.

ALCOHOL USE DISORDER

Mild Moderate Severe

Lasting changes in the brain caused by alcohol 1. Availability of alcohol and social demand for
misuse perpetuate AUD and make individuals its use
vulnerable to relapse. 2. Genetic factors
3. As a way to relieve the anxiety and depression
There is a criterion to define alcohol dependency 4. People who abuse alcohol may have certain
as personality traits like feeling of isolation.
shyness, loneliness, dependency, hostile
and self-destructive impulsivity and sexual
• Narrowing of the drinking repertoire immaturity or may have social problems like
• Priority of drinking over other activities disturbed relationships with family.
(salience) Complications [6]
• Tolerance of effects of alcohol 1. Social problems: Staying away from work,
• Repeated withdrawal symptoms unemployment, marital tension, child abuse,
financial difficulties and problems with the
• Relief of withdrawal symptoms by further
law, such as violence and traffic offences.
drinking
2. Psychological problems:
• Subjective compulsion to drink
• Anxiety
• Reinstatement of drinking behavior after
abstinence • Alcoholic hallucinosis
• Alcohol withdrawal Symptoms usually
Etiology [1,6]
become more about 2 days after the last drink
The following causes may lead to alcohol use disorder and include seizures (‘rum fits’).
• Delirium tremens: they are associated with

48 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective

severe alcohol withdrawal. to motility disorders

• Alcoholic blackouts • Osteopenia
• Depression • Gout
Neurological Complications: • Avascular necrosis (e.g., Femoral head)
• Fractures(malunion)
• Stroke
• Cerebral dementia, cerebellar degeneration Genitourinary and reproductive:
• Demyelinating syndrome – Central pontine • IgA nephropathy
myelinolysis, Marchiafava-Bignami syndrome • Renal tubular acidosis
• Neuropathy: Sensory, motor, mixed, • Renal tract infections
autonomic
• subfertility
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Impotence
• Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
• Spontaneous abortion
• Giddiness, tremors
• Fetal alcohol syndrome
• Pellagra
Dermatological:
• Tobacco-alcohol amblyopia
• skin stigmata of liver disease
Effects on Other Organs [5]:
• Skin infection bacterial, fungal, viral
• Liver & pancreas: fatty change and cirrhosis,
• Local cutaneous vascular effects
hepatocellular carcinoma
• Psoriasis
• Acute and chronic pancreatitis
• Discoid eczema
• Malabsorption syndrome
• Hematological: RBCs- macrocytosis, anemia
• Overt expression of latent genetic hepatic
due to blood loss, folate deficiency and
porphyrias
malabsorption
Gastrointestinal: • WBCs- neutropenia, lymphopenia
• Periodontal disease and caries • Platelets- thrombocytopenia
• Oral infections, leukoplakia and malignancy
• Alcoholic gastritis and hematemesis Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome
• Alcoholic enteropathy and malabsorption It is the characteristic feature of chronic alcohol
syndrome abuse or alcohol dependency. It is characterized
• Colonic malignancy by sudden presentation of central nervous system
Cardiovascular: excitation. They occur after 6-8 hours after the
cessation of alcohol intake and it may last for 2-7
• Cardiac arrhythmia days.[3]
• Cardiomyopathy
Pathophysiology
• Hypertension
• Hypercholesterolemia
Voluntary muscle and skeletal:
• Proximal metabolic myopathy, principally
affecting type II
• Neuromyopathy secondary to motor nerve
damage
• Atrophy of smooth muscle of GI tract leading

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 49

Subjective
Ethanol seems to act on the benzodiazepine g- and dopamine.
aminobutyric acid (GABA) chloride receptor
complex. When a person withdraws from alcohol, Clinical features:
the receptor complex loses the potentiating effects
of ethanol on chloride flux thus decreasing the ef- Clinical features of withdrawal can be classified
ficacy of GABA. It leads to hyperactivity of neu- as given in the following table depending on
rotransmitters such as norepinephrine, glutamate their intensity.

Minor Intermediate Major

Appear within a few hours as Appear within 8-12 hours of Occur between 24-72 hours af-
blood ethanol concentration falls cessation of alcohol and resolve ter the last drink and may last
sharply and subside within 24-72 after 48-72 hours. for about 1-5 days
hours.
1. Weakness 1. Auditory and visual hal- 1. Delirium tremens- It
lucinations, mostly with an consists of agitation,
2. Faintness unpleasant or threatening hallucinations, illu-
content (Alcoholic Halluci- sions, delusions, tachy-
3. Sweating
nosis) cardia, hypertension,
4. Irritability diaphoresis and dilated
2. Convulsions of uncompli- pupils.
5. Catecholamine-Induced cated grand mal type.
Hypertension
3. Dysrhythmias due to elec-
6. Insomnia trolyte disbalance

7. Tremors

Investigations 2. Selenium: Headache of drunkards, after

debauchery. Hungry, at night, longing for
• Breath, blood, urine examination spirituous liquors, an almost irresistible
• GGT- Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase maniacal. Desire for brandy and other strong
drinks .
• MCV (mean corpuscular volume)
3. Ranunculus Bulbosus: Bad effects of alcohol,
• Carbohydrate- deficient transferrin level
delirium tremens. Spasmodic hiccough.
• Phosphatidylethanol (Peth)
4. Sulphuric Acid: Heartburn, sour eructation
• ALT, AST craving for alcohol, water causes coldness of
Homeopathic Therapeutics stomach, loss of appetite,its act wonder whem
nux fails,fully must be mixed with liquor .
The most indicated medicines which are 5. Syphilinum: Craves alcohol [10]. Hereditary
frequently used in treating Alcohol use disorder tendency to alcoholism, obstinate constipation
are as follows [8][9][10][11] for years
1. Nux Vomica: Bad effects of alcoholic 6. Avena sativa—for sleeplessness , nervousness
stimulants, highly spiced, over eating. and general exhaustion . 20 drops of mother
Eructation-sour, bitter, nausea and vomiting tincture in hot water gives wonderful results
every morning with depression of spirits. 7. Apocynum canabinum —For acute
Desire for stimulants, constipation, with alcoholism. Desire for alcoholic drink.very
frequent ineffectual urging, incomplete and good remedy for general oedema and dropsy
unsatisfactory stool. of the body , great thirst and gastric irritability

50 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
, acute alcoholism • KENT-VERTIGO-alcoholic liquors
8. Strychnine nitrate —-Takes away craving for • KENT-HEAD-congestion hyperemia etc. (see
alcohol fullness, pulsation) alcoholic liquors
9. Angilica —-Creates disgust for alcohol , acts • KENT-HEAD-pain, headache in general:
complimentary Alcoholics (see spirituous liquor)
10. Coffea: Headache due to alcoholism. • KENT-HEAD-pain, headache in general: nail,
Intolerance of tight clothing after, after wine as from a, alcoholics, after
and liquor as if nails were driven into head. • KENT-STOMACH-aversion: alcoholic
Worse in open air. Sleeplessness, convulsions stimulants.
and liveliness.
• KENT-STOMACH-desires: alcoholic drinks.
11. Asarum europeum: A great longing for
• KENT-STOMACH-desires: alcoholic drinks:
alcohol.
menses, before.
12. Conium: Intoxication after taking the smallest
• KENT-STOMACH-hiccough: alcoholic
quantity of liquor or even wine in water.
drinks, after.
13. Coca: Longing for alcoholic liquors.
• KENT-RECTUM-diarrhea: alcoholic drinks,
14. Syphillinum: Craving for alcohol in any form. after.
Hereditary tendency to alcoholism.
• KENT-RECTUM-diarrhea: spirits (see
15. Quercus Glandium Spiritus: Antidotes effect alcoholic drinks).
of alcohol, takes away craving of alcoholics
• KENT-GENERALITIES-alcoholic stimulants.
• KENT-GENERALITIES-alcoholic stimulants.
Important rubrics of Chronic Alcoholism from • KENT-GENERALITIES-weakness, enervation
Kent's Repertory[7] (see lassitude, weariness): alcoholic drinks
amel.
Important rubrics of Alcoholism from Phatak's
Repertory[8]

• [Phatak ] [Phatak A-Z] ALCOHOLISM:Acute

• [Phatak ] [Phatak A-Z] ALCOHOLISM:Later
• [Phatak ] [Phatak A-Z]
ALCOHOLISM:Later:Recurrent
• [Phatak ] [Phatak A-Z]DIPSOMANIA (SEE
DELIRIUM TREMENS)
• Rubrics From Complete Repertory

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 51

Subjective
• [COMPLETE] [MIND]ALCOHOLISM,
DIPSOMANIA:
• [COMPLETE] [Generalities]FOOD graph., nux-v., spig., sulph. FACE: PARALYSIS:
AND DRINKS:Alcohol, alcoholic cold, from: cadm., Caust., dulc., ruta. How
drinks:Agg.:Alcoholism, in acute: can we use this information?

The patient’s paralysis is from cold WIND not

bathing so we can eliminate Dulcamara, the
REFERENCES only other strongly showing remedy is Caus-
1. Manthappa M. Manipal Prep Manual of Medicine. 2nd Edition. ticum with a RIGHT sided paralysis, although
New Delhi: Cbs Publishers and Distributor Pvt Ltd;2016 there may be other possible indications in
2. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). the patient’s history. We do not have a three-
Drinking Levels Defined and Alcohol Use Disorder. Available
from: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview- legged stool but have established that there
alcohol-consumption/moderate-binge-drinking is no escape of urine. I had never prescribed
3. .Boloor A, Nayak R. Exam preparatory manual for undergraduates. Cadmium sulphuratum before; indeed only
1st edition. New delhi: jaypee Brothers medical publishers (P)
Ltd; 2017 a check in the abbreviations list showed me
4. Alagappan R. Manual of Practical Medicine. 4th Edition. New that it was not the metallicum. I had so far
Delhi: Jaypee Medical Publications (P) Ltd; 2011 only considered this remedy as a cancer rem-
5. Golwalla AF, Golwalla AS, Nadkar MY. Golwalla’s Medicine for edy in the writings of Grimmer.. Eye open -
Students. 25th ed. New Delhi: Jaypee Brother Medical Publishers
(P) Ltd; 2017 sleep during. Eye closed difficult (face seems
6. Colledge NR, Walker BR, Ralston S. Davidson’s Principles swelling).
and Practice of Medicine. 21st Edition. Edinburgh: Churchill
Livingstone Elsevier; 2010 Prescription
7. Kent JT. Repertory of the Homoeopathic Materia Medica.6th
edition. Noida. B. Jain Publishers(P) Ltd;2018
Cadmium sulphuratum 200C and S.L.
8. Murphy R. Lotus Materia Medica. Homoeopathic Remedy Guide.
Third Revised Edition. New Delhi: B Jain Publishers Pvt Ltd; 2018
Follow up Follow up was seven days later and
9. Clarke JH. A Dictionary of Practical Materia Medica. New Delhi:
B Jain Publisher Pvt Ltd; 2015 there was no trace of the problem at all, the
10. William Boericke. Pocket manual of Homoeopathic Materia main improvement was immediate 75%, and
Medica with Indian medicine and repertory,9th edition, then a gradual improvement of the remain-
published by Indian books and periodicals publishers; 2016 Apr.
der. No continuing treatment was sought.
11. Allen HC. Keynotes rearranged and classified with leading
remedies of the Materia medica added with other leading
Nosodes and Bowel Nosodes,10th edition, published by B. Jain Comment
publishers (p) ltd; c2016.
Cadmium metallicum was thought of as the
remedy for “influenzosis” by William Gut-
man, (BrHomJ 51 pp20-21 1961). Grimmer
ABOUT THE AUTHOR characterises the sulphuratum as having a
1. Dr. Romal Padsumbiya, PG Scholar in fear of solitude, of mental work, worse from
Department of Materia Medica at Rajkot cold winds and a crawling sensation with pa-
Homoeopathic Medical College ralysis on the face. A college note showed
Cadmium sulphuratum to be prescribed in
the CM every 20 minutes for severe ‘flu! (was
this a joke?); I once tracked down the source
of this to Eric Powell’s Natural Home Physi-
cian. Clarke confirmed the facial paralysis and
cold wind aggravation. Clarke and Grimmer
confirmed the unsettled stomach although

continued on page........52

52 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
Case Report

CONCLUSION
Alcoholism And Addiction: Role of
Though superficially, the presentation of patient
is found in many remedies, the basic core of the Homoeopathy
patient differentiates the remedy and we can
reach the similimum. Causative factor and the Dr. Urvashi Dwivedi, Dr. Varnika Prashad
reaction pattern belong to the core and help in
individualisation. Finer aspects of patient’s core
ABSTRACT
feelings help in remedy differentiation.
Alcoholism
The markedisfeature
a disorder marked by a pathological
of Menispermeaceae familypattern of alcohol use that causes serious impairment in
is the profound weakness of the kidneyboth
social or occupational functioning. It includes andalcohol abuse and alcohol dependence. In current times,
occasional usecomplaints
genitourinary of alcohol has slowlypoints
which transformed into a traditional habit that is gradually leading to addiction.
to Pareira
Homoeopathy,
brava. which is a holistic system of medicine, has shown favourable results in treating cases of alcohol
intoxication and other disorders related to alcohol abuse.

REFERENCES
Keywords: Alcoholism, alcohol addiction, homoeopathy, murphy repertory, rubric.
1. Dr.Mahesh Gandhi, Personal Evolution Model The Foundation
Book, first edition reprint 2019; New Delhi, published by The
General Manager Crossbill Publishing Co., pages 61, page 63,
page 65, page 135, page 88
INTRODUCTION identified both through standardized question-
2. ICD Code naires and by elevations in blood test results

A lcohol dependence is a pattern of compulsive

3. Synthesis 1.3 app, created by Archibel SA, based on Synthesis
alcohol use, defined by the presence of three
Repertory version 2009, Editor Dr. Frederik Schroyens.
or more major areas of impairment related to
likely to be seen with regular heavier drinking.
These measures do not establish a diagnosis of an
alcohol-related disorder but can be useful in high-
alcohol
4. Michal occurring within theORDER
Yakir,Ph.D, WONDROUS same Systematic
12 months.Table Of
lighting individuals for whom more information
Homoeopathic Plant Remedies Book One : Flowering Plants, 7th
Alcohol abuse is diagnosed when alcohol is used
edition,Hebrew, English, 2016, Kandern, Narayan Verlag, page should be gathered. The most direct test available
in 164,
physically
page 166 hazardous situations (e.g., driving). to measure alcohol consumption cross-sectionally
Alcohol abuse differs from alcohol dependence in is blood alcohol concentration, which can also be
5. I.C.R OPERATIONAL MANUAL, Editor Dr. Anand R. Kapse,
that it does not include tolerance and withdrawal
second edition, 2003; published by Dr. M.L. Dhawale Memorial used to judge tolerance to alcohol. For example,
or trust;
a compulsive use pattern; rather, it is defined by
page 102 to 105 an individual with a concentration of 150 mg of
negative consequences of repeated use. Although ethanol per decilitre (dL) of blood who does not
alcoholism does not describe a specific mental show signs of intoxication can be presumed to
ABOUT the
disorder, THE AUTHOR
disorders associated with alcohol- have acquired at least some degree of tolerance to
ism generally, can be divided into three groups: alcohol. At 200 mg/dL, most intolerant individu-
1. Dr Vaishali P. Joshi, M.D (Hom.),
Homoeopathic Physician als demonstrate severe intoxication.(2)
(1) Disorders related to the direct effects of alcohol
on the brain (including alcohol intoxication, Role Of Homoeopathy In Alcohol Addiction
withdrawal delirium, and hallucinosis);
(2) Disorders related to behaviour associated
with alcohol (alcohol abuse and dependence);
(3) Disorders with persisting effects (including
alcohol-induced
persisting amnestic disorder, dementia,
Wernicke’s encephalopathy, and Korsakoff’s
syndrome).(1)(2)

DIAGNOSTIC FEATURES

Individuals whose heavier drinking places them

at elevated risk for alcohol use disorder can be

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 53

Subjective
Homoeopathy which is a holistic system of medi- • Stomach-nausea, general, alcoholics in
cine has proved to be of immense use in treating • Stomach-gastritis, inflammation alcohol abuse
cases of alcohol addiction as, mentioned by mas- from
ter Hahnemann himself in the aphorism 221 orga-
• Stomach-gastritis, inflammation, alcoholics in
non of medicine sixth edition “If, however, insan-
ity or mania (caused by fright, vexation, the abuse • Stomach-heartburn, general (see belching)
of spirituous liquors, etc) have suddenly broken alcoholics in
out as an acute disease in the patient’s ordinary • Stomach-hiccoughs, hiccups, alcoholic drinks
calm state although it almost always arises from after
internal psora, like a flame burst in forth from it”. • Stomach-hiccoughs, hiccups, alcoholics in
(3)
• Stomach-pain, stomach alcoholics in
REPERTORY REFERRED: Homoeopathic Medi- • Stomach-retching, gagging alcoholics in
cal Repertory (third revised edition) by Dr. Robin • Stomach-vomiting, general alcoholics, drink
Murphy from
• Stomach-vomiting, general alcoholics of
Rubrics for alcohol addiction and complaints re-
lated to alcohol addiction from Murphy Reper- • Toxicity-alcohol, general
tory that can be referred include- • Vertigo-alcoholic, drinks, from
• Vertigo-alcoholic drinks after, as if
• Clinical-alcoholism, dipsomania
• Weakness-alcoholism, weakness in
• Constitution-alcoholic constitution, delirium
and mental derangement
• Constitution-alcoholic constitution, hands Homoeopathic therapeutic management for al-
trembling cohol addiction:
• Food-alcohol, general, (see clinical, chapter) In the books of homoeopathic therapeutics, rec-
• Food-alcohol general, desires alcohol ommended by theory, against intoxication by al-
• Head-congestion, head, hyperaemia, (see cohol more than 40 medicines that may be useful,
fullness, pulsation). if they are indicated by the totality of psychic and
• Head-congestion, head, hyperaemia, somatic symptoms in the person to be treated.
alcoholic, liquors agg. But while waiting to show their differential in-
dications, the clinical indications seem to be the
• Headaches-alcohol, spirituous liquors, pain most useful. Here are a few medicines according
from. to their order of importance.
• Headaches-alcohol, spirituous liquors, pain
from, amel. Headaches-general, head pain, 1. Nux vomica- Violent people often contradicted,
(dull, pain) whom cares and chagrins force to become
• Headaches-nail, pain as if from alcoholic after intoxicated aid spits often or mild people,
• Mind-depression, sadness, alcoholics in good and sensitive, in ordinary condition and
who is in the state of drunkenness become
• Rectum-diarrhoea, general, alcoholics drink
brutal up to striking, insulting, sometimes
after
weeping. Desire for red wine, white wine,
• Rectum-diarrhoea, general alcoholics in beer.
• Stomach-aversion, alcoholic stimulants 2. Lachesis- People of bad character, vulgarly
• Stomach-belching, eructation, alcoholics in called "difficult to lie with". Tendency to
(see heartburn) violent crimes, vindictive wicked, jealous,
• Stomach-burning, pain alcoholics, in envious, debauch. Likes brandy and absinth.
Using tobacco. Sometimes extravagant,
• Stomach-cramping, pain alcoholics of
sometimes miser, light headed, unreflecting
• Stomach-indigestion, general, alcoholics in mind.

54 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
3. Causticum- Teasing, quibbler, babbler, great glass of wine, vomits after the least excess of
tendency to become softened up to tears drinks. Speaking much when they are drunk.
before, during and after intoxication. Very 10. Opium- Specially drinkers of brandy.
great genital excitement. Desire for brandy Intoxicates himself after humiliation. Very
and rhum, indicated In persons who have lost gay, hebeted, or asleep when drunk. Tendency
their beloved beings. to weep easily. This remedy suits those who
4. Sulphur- Does not have a sense of duty, nor become intoxicated with wine in the first
the will to do it. Likes wine and beer. before case and in the following two, to those who
and after Mild intoxication. More intelligent become intoxicated by ciders, beer, alcohol of
during drunkenness. Saying and doing things grains, of potato.
during drunkenness, which he would not 11. Staphysagria- Suits to drunkards who have
have said or done before. People who have made abuse of venereal pleasures. Being
the tendency to obesity or at least to become innervated he believes he can make himself
corpulent. steady by the abuse of alcohol, specially
5. Calcarea carbonica- Corpulent, obese people. by mild liquors, than by strong liquors.
Have neither the sense of duty or the desire to Sad before, during and after being drunk.
accomplish it. Is not disposed to give services. Hypochondriac .Persecutory delirium. Single
Having antipathy against persons without and specially debauched husbands. Onanism.
any motive. Tendency to become a thief and a Jealous. Use tobacco.
liar. Having done some excessive brain work, 12. Conium maculatum- People who drink to
which has weakened the intelligence and has restore himself, because they are full of ennui,
made him afraid of becoming mad. Envious, cold and frozen. People who cannot tolerate
heinous, vindictive. Sometimes a gambler. continence. Great indifference. Intelligence not
Sometimes miser. Sometimes extravagant for yet well developed. Adults want reasons like
themselves or by ostentation. Without any children. Paralytic weakness of the kidneys,
strength of mind and cannot refuse a glass of specially of the legs. Tendency to paraplegia.
wine.
13. Pulsatilla- People, who, while drinking, want
6. Hepar sulphuris- Affectionate persons, to make strong their stomach and whose
always displeased, easily loses self-control digestion power is really very weak. Sad
and becomes angry up to killing Inclined to during drunkenness. Likes ciders. Chlorotic
become criminal. For making his brain work women or girls who drink for improving their
he drinks wine. debility. Jealous and still more envious even
7. Arsenicum album- Wicked people, vindictive, heinous. Extravagant by ostentation. Timid
inexorable, inclined to become a criminal. and even cowardly.
Tendency to suicide by a dagger, by poison 14. Magnesia carbonica- Suits to persons who
or by hanging. People are always thirsty and drink mild liquors, to those who, in their
need whatever drinks, even water. Tendency food, make frequent uses of dainty things
to vomiting and especially diarrhoea. Great and sweets. Teasing, sad, taciturn, and
tendency to persecute others. loquacious. Face livid or bright red, insomnia
8. Vivus- Always dissatisfied, of everything and at night, Somnolence during the day. Speaks
of himself. Dental caries. Swelling of gums, unceasingly when drunk.(5)(6)(7)
salivation, neuralgias, diarrhoea, dysentery,
tendency to worms. Great gambler, sometimes CONCLUSION
extravagant, sometimes miser. They gradually With the increasing incidence of alcohol addiction
spend all they have; a very difficult character, Homoeopathy has a wide range of medicines in
of weak intelligence. Suffering from diseases treating different stages of alcohol use disorder as
palliated rather than cured. well as de addiction of alcohol by using the medi-
9. Petroleum- Drunkards without energy, cines on the therapeutic basis or carefully selected
without strength of mind, cannot refuse a individualised homoeopathic medicines

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 55

Subjective

REFERENCES
1) Benjamin J. Sadock,Samoon Ahmad,Virginia A. Sadock,Kaplan
and Sadock’s pocket handbook of Clinical Psychiatry,Sixth associating it with yellow fever or cancer, but
Edition,New York,Wolters Kluwer,2018
also with icy coldness and yet with sweat in
2) American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and statistical
manual of mental disorders (DSM-5 (R)). 5th ed. Arlington, TX: the axillae. All this and more was confirmed
American Psychiatric Association Publishing; 2013. 10. Cooper JE, by Hering in seven pages!
World Health Organization
3) Hahnemann Samuel reprint (2001) organon of Medicine 6th This patient was seen some years before the
edition B. Jain publisher, New Delhi.
publication of the work of Jan Scholten on
4) Murphy Robin Homoeopathic Medical Repertory :3rd revised
edition, New Delhi,India:B Jain. Minerals and Elements and provides a clear
5) Boericke W. New manual of homoeopathic materia medica & confirmation of the possible uses of Cadmium
repertory with relationship of remedies: Including Indian drugs, salts. It could be seen as anecdotal evidence. I
nosodes uncommon, rare remedies, mother tinctures, relationship,
sides of the body, drug affinities & list of abbreviation: 3rd edition. prefer to see it as an interesting case study, an
New Delhi, India: B Jain. example of N=1.
6) Gallavardin.Jean Pierre Psychism and homoeopathy: 1st
edition,New Delhi,India:B Jain. Footnote
7) Lilienthal Samuel Homoeopathic therapeutics:4th edition, New
Delhi,India:B Jain.
Modern versions of the repertory such as in
8) Siddesha G, Justina M Steefan, D. Sai Sreehitha et.al. Alcohol
intoxication and homoeopathy - a review. International Journal
MacRepertory™ display Cadm-s as the abbre-
of Research and Review. 2023; 10(1): 429-435. DOI: https://doi. viation for Cadmium sulphuratum.
org/10.52403/ijrr.20230149

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

1. Dr Urvashi Dwivedi Junior Resident
Doctor,Department of Materia medica Pt.
JLNHMC Kanpur.
2. Dr Varnika Prashad Junior Resident
Doctor,Department of Case Taking and
Repertory Pt. JLNHMC Kanpur.

56 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Special
CaseSection
Report
Subjective

CONCLUSION
Homoeopathic Drug Proving on Sick:
Though superficially, the presentation of patient
First Step Towards A Model
is found in many remedies, the basic core of the
patient differentiates the remedy and we can
reach the similimum. Causative factor andDrthe Manpreet Kaur, Dr S M Singh, Dr Pankaj Aggarwal,
reaction pattern belong to the core and help in Dr Vandana Gambhir, Dr Chaturbhuja Nayak
individualisation. Finer aspects of patient’s core
feelings help in remedy differentiation.
ABSTRACT
The marked feature of Menispermeaceae family
isBackground:
the profound Studyweakness
proposed aof research methodand
the kidney for drug proving, clinically.
genitourinary complaints which points to Pareira
Materials and Methods: Patients were screened as per inclusion and exclusion criteria and judgmental sam-
brava.
pling for a period of 18 months. Thirty patients suffering from chronic diseases for whom Pulsatilla nigricans got
selected as an indicated remedy after a detailed homoeopathic case taking in ‘Case taking proforma/Pre-prov-
REFERENCES
ing Assessment and Treatment Format’ were taken as sample size. Qualitative research design was followed.
Clinical case study method was used to collect data from participants. Archival research method was used to
1. Dr.Mahesh Gandhi, Personal Evolution Model The Foundation
compare
Book, firstthe findings
edition reprintof2019;
clinical
New cases
Delhi, with already
published existing sources. After administration of Pulsatilla nigricans,
by The
symptoms pertaining
General Manager to Publishing
Crossbill changes in mind
Co., pagesand
61, body were recorded for two follow-up visits in ‘Follow-up/During
page 63,
page 65, page 135, page 88
and Post-proving Assessment and Treatment Format’ and ‘Patient’s Symptom Recording Sheet’. This data was
2.collected
ICD Code by clinical case study method of research and analysed by content analysis.

3.Results:
Synthesis Symptoms obtained
1.3 app, created fromSA,allbased
by Archibel patients were recorded in ‘Symptoms Compiling Proforma’ under three
on Synthesis
Repertorysymptoms
criteria: version 2009,observed
Editor Dr. Frederik Schroyens.
as disappeared/ameliorated, symptoms observed as appeared/aggravated and
symptoms observed as re-appeared. For validating the obtained symptomatology, they were verified from three
4. Michal Yakir,Ph.D, WONDROUS ORDER Systematic Table Of
source books,Plant
Homoeopathic i.e., Remedies
Materia Book
Medica
One Pura, Hering’s
: Flowering Plants,Guiding
7th Symptoms and Allen’s Encyclopedia in the ‘Proforma
edition,Hebrew,
for English, 2016, Kandern, Narayan Verlag, page
clinical verification of the symptoms’. Symptoms verified from one or more source books were designated as
164, page 166
clinically verified symptoms (n=97) and the rest as new clinical symptoms (n=42).
5. I.C.R OPERATIONAL MANUAL, Editor Dr. Anand R. Kapse,
Conclusion:
second edition,The model
2003; hasbyproved
published Dr. M.L.significant in obtaining
Dhawale Memorial more symptoms for the pathogenesis of Pulsatilla
trust; page 102 to 105
nigricans.

ABOUT THE
Keywords: AUTHOR
clinical drug proving, drug proving, homeopathic drug proving, homeopathic drug proving
on sick, Pulsatilla nigricans
1. Dr Vaishali P. Joshi, M.D (Hom.),
Homoeopathic Physician
INTRODUCTION of proving. Amongst them, there were only Al-
brecht von Haller, Anton von Stoerk, Coste and Wille-

D rug proving is a process carried out to

discover the positive characteristic of the
action of the drug on the vital energy of the human
min, whose works leave an indication about drug-
proving on sick individuals. But none of these
persons attempted to follow up the invaluable
being.1 The symptoms from homoeopathic drug hint3 of carrying out drug proving on an extensive
proving can be derived by two modes- healthy scale.
and sick individuals.2
The first evidence of proving of drugs dates back Hahnemann instituted drug proving with a defi-
to 3000 BC, when, Shen Nung, the Chinese father nite methodology on the most extensive scale and
of medicine3 tested herbs upon himself for elicit- published his results.4 He did this work in two
ing therapeutic efficacy. Later, there have been 33 ways: 1) Drug proving on healthy human beings
persons, before Hahnemann, including Paracelsus, and 2) Drug proving on sick human beings. His
Conrad Gessner, Albrecht von Haller, Anton Stoerck work on proving started in 1805 with Fragmenta de
and others who did pioneering work in the field Viribus Medicamentorum Positivis to the last edition

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 57

Special Section
of Die Chronischen Krankheiten in 1839. He proved says that the following symptoms should be re-
100 drugs in all, but 99 drugs are on record. garded as the symptoms of the medicine when it
is proved over the sick individuals 7:
Hahnemann began with conducting proving on
the healthy individuals and included 66 medi- i. The symptoms which were observed a long
cines in his Materia Medica Pura. Then, after estab- time previously but reappeared during the
lishing his ‘theory of chronic diseases’ in 1827, he whole course of the disease 7
further proved his drugs on the sick individuals.5,6
ii. The new symptoms which were never
By such a proving, he has compiled 47 medicines
observed before but appeared during the
in his Chronic Diseases. Amongst these 47 medi-
course of the disease 7
cines, 16 medicines have reappeared from his
Materia Medica Pura. So, the symptoms of these Moreover, Dr. Richard Hughes in his works
medicines which are again found in the Chronic talks about how Hahnemann used to collect
Diseases must have been obtained from their re- pathogenetic symptoms of his medicines from
proving on the sick individuals. his patients and which symptoms he regarded
as medicinal symptoms. This is evident from the
Along with the symptoms of proving obtained following quotes from the work 5 of Dr. Richard
from sick individuals, the Chronic Diseases of Hughes:
Hahnemann contains several healthy drug prov-
ing symptoms borrowed from provings of Stapf, “There can be no doubt, indeed, that, with
Hartlaub and Trinks, Professor Joerg etc. along proper precautions, the pathogenetic effects of
with sick. This is evident from the ‘Prefatory Note a drug may be observed upon patients taking it
to Materia Medica Section’, of Chronic Diseases 6, for their ailments almost as well as upon healthy
where Dr Richard Hughes writes that: subjects… The disease must be of a definite and
limited character, consistent with fair general
“Hahnemann was further able, at this time, to health; all symptoms conceivably resulting from
draw upon independent sources of drug-patho- it, or occupying the same seat, must be excluded,
genesy. Hartlaub and Trinks had published a and likewise all phenomena previously observed
Materia Medica of their own. Stapf had begun to in or by the patient during his ill health.
issue his journal known as the Archiv, and many
provings adorned its pages. Lastly, outside the He also says, in his Medicine of Experience (1806):
Homoeopathic school, Professor Joerg, of Leipsic, “how, even in diseases, amid the symptoms of the
was following in Hahnemann’s track and prov- original disease, the medicinal symptoms may
ing medicines on himself and his students. Of all be discovered, is a subject for the exercise of a
these materials Hahnemann availed himself in higher order of inductive minds, and must be left
the present work, which thus presents a complex solely to masters in the art of observation.” This
whole, made up of very heterogenous elements, statement stands unchanged in the last edition
and needing analysis that it may be appraised and of the Organon (1833); and a note is added to the
used aright.” words “medicinal symptoms,” explaining them
to be such as “during the whole course of the
Hahnemann had collected clinical symptoms disease might have been observed only a long
from his patients’ records while writing on prov- time previously, or never before; consequently,
ing of the medicines in his Chronic Diseases. These new ones belonging to the medicines.”
medicines are based upon §142 of Organon of
Medicine where Hahnemann has instructed about In another paragraph5, he says that:
drug proving on the sick individuals. This apho-
rism tells that when a medicine is given to a sick “In the later Organon, he lays down the canon
individual suffering from a natural disease, the (§ cxxxviii) that “all the sufferings, accidents,
medicine also produces certain symptoms which and changes of the health of the experimenter
can be distinguished amongst the disease symp- during the action of a medicine (provided
toms.2 Also, in the footnote of §142, Hahnemann the proper conditions are complied with) are
solely derived from this medicine, and must be

58 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Special Section
regarded and registered as belonging peculiarly the influence of a drug, Hahnemann recorded it,
to this medicine, as symptoms of the medicine, adding “Heilwirkung” (curative action).”
even though the experimenter had observed, a
considerable time previously, the spontaneous In his book, The Knowledge of the Physician Hughes
occurrence of similar phenomena in himself” He
4
says that:
seems to have entertained the same principle in
“The observation of symptoms in the sick became
his mind as regards the administration of drugs in
quite common; and these patients afforded yet
disease, and to have considered “all the sufferings,
another opportunity for supplying the Materia
accidents, and changes of health” of the patient
Medica with symptoms. Aggravations of their
as “solely derived from the medicine” he was
existing troubles occurred from time to time
taking.”
during treatment, and were of course ascribed
Then again, he writes 5 that: to the energy of the medicines they were taking;
and these were, not without countenance from
“There is one source especially on which Hahnemann, set down among the symptoms
Hahnemann seems to have relied at this time for of the drug…But the imitators of the master’s
pathogenetic effects of drugs. I mean aggravations, weaknesses have quite outdone him as regards
real or supposed, of the existing symptoms of the utilisation of the sick for enriching the
patients. In 1813, he had written to Stapf:*—“You Symptomen Codex. When in a prover some
are right in supposing that the increase by a existing deviation from health disappeared
medicine of symptoms that had been previously during the action of a drug, Hahnemann recorded
present most probably indicates that the medicine it, adding “Heilwirkung” (curative effect).”
given can of itself also excite similar symptoms.”
Also, Hahnemann himself tells that the symptoms
In his book, The Principles and Practice of obtained from the sick individuals are collaborative
Homoeopathy also, Hughes 8 writes that: and require verification with a source containing
pure effects of the drugs in healthy persons, for
“This verdict must be passed still more decisively being validated as the pathogenetic symptoms of
on another mode in which Hahnemann, in later the medicines. He writes in the author’s preface of
years, utilised the sick in the construction of his his Materia Medica Pura, Volume 1 9:
pathogeneses. I refer to aggravations, real or
supposed, of their symptoms. In 1813, he expressed “Among the observations from extraneous sources
the opinion that such aggravation “most probably in the following pages are some which were
indicates that the medicine given can itself also observed in patients; but as these were the subjects
excite similar symptoms,” but he would not have of chronic disease whose morbid symptoms were
such symptoms set down as pathogenetic. In the well known and were not confounded with the
‘Chronic Diseases,’ however, there is good reason new effects caused by the medicine taken–at least
to believe that he departed from his salutary GREDING seems to have carefully avoided doing
caution; and many of the apparently wonderful so–these observations are not altogether valueless;
effects of drugs which experience has proved of at all events, they serve occasionally to confirm
the ‘Materia Medica Pura,’ are–so far as they are similar or identical symptoms that may appear in
Hahnemanner obtained.” pure experiments on the healthy.”

In another paragraph, he writes 8 that: This quote of Hahnemann has been mentioned by
Dr. Richard Hughes also in his Pharmacodynamics5,
“Not only were fresh sensations and phenomena as (see underlined):
occurring in the course of their treatment set
down to the medicines they were taking, but “Nor did Hahnemann fail to recognise the
aggravations of their existing troubles were necessity of such precautions to obtain even a
ascribed to these, and registered as pathogenetic tolerable result, as is evident from his preface to
effects accordingly…When in a prover some the first volume of the Reine Arzneimittellehre. He
existing deviation from health disappeared under there writes:—“Among the observations of others

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 59

Special Section
which are mingled with the following symptoms Therefore, it is evident that Hahnemann has
some were obtained from sick persons. However, described a clinical method for identifying the
inasmuch as they were chronic patients, with pathogenetic symptoms of a medicine amongst
symptoms well known, these last need not be the symptoms of the disease of a sick individual.
confounded with the effect produced by the
medicines, as Greding has shown and carefully So, keeping the medicine Pulsatilla nigricans into
exemplified. Symptoms observed upon such focus, this study demonstrates a method for clinical
patients, therefore, are not without value, and drug proving [Figure 1], following the guidelines
may at any time serve for corroboration when suggested by Hahnemann. Here clinical drug
analogous or identical symptoms appear among proving means a method through which the
the pure effects of the drugs in healthy persons.” proving symptoms of a drug can be obtained
during its administration to a sick individual.

60 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Case
Case Study
Report
Subjective

CONCLUSION
Urethral Stricture And Its Management
Though superficially, the presentation of patient
with Homoeopathic Medicines
is found in many remedies, the basic core of the
patient differentiates the remedy and we can
reach the similimum. Causative factor and the Dr. Jaykumar Chandarana, Dr. Vaibhav Shah
reaction pattern belong to the core and help in
individualisation. Finer aspects of patient’s core
feelings help in remedy differentiation.
The marked feature of Menispermeaceae family
ABSTRACT
is the profound weakness of the kidney and
The urethra is the
genitourinary thin tubewhich
complaints that carries
points urine from the urinary bladder out of the body. Both in the males and
to Pareira
females the urethra's main function is to pass urine outside the body. It also plays an important role in ejacula-
brava.
tion for men. Sometimes a scar is formed due to reasons like swelling, injury or infection which may block or
slow down the flow of urine in it. This is called a urethral stricture. Some people feel pain with a urethral stric-
REFERENCES
ture whereas some may not.
1. Dr.Mahesh Gandhi, Personal Evolution Model The Foundation
ABook,
urethral (u-REE-thrul)
first edition stricture
reprint 2019; is when
New Delhi, narrowing
published by The from scar tissue occurs in the urethra. Scar tissue
causes
narrowing of theCrossbill
General Manager urethraPublishing
and canCo.,
be pages
due to61,various
page 63,causes like A medical procedure, Trauma or injury,An en-
page 65, page 135, page 88
larged prostate or previous surgery, Radiation therapy, Ca of the urethra or prostate etc. The tube could now
2.become
ICD Codenarrow and cause difficulty and discomfort during the process of micturition. This condition is labeled
as urethral stricture. Although not every time it could so happen that a urethral stricture may need immediate
3.medical
Synthesisattention. A stricture
1.3 app, created restricts
by Archibel the flow
SA, based of urine from the bladder and can lead to an array of symptoms
on Synthesis
Repertory version 2009, Editor Dr. Frederik Schroyens.
or medical problems in the urinary tract, including inflammation or infection.
4. Michal Yakir,Ph.D, WONDROUS ORDER Systematic Table Of
Homoeopathic Plant Remedies Book One : Flowering Plants, 7th
edition,Hebrew, English, 2016, Kandern, Narayan Verlag, page
164, page 166
Keywords: Urethral Stricture, Incontinence Of Urine, Traumatic Bladder Catheterization, Homeopathic
Individualisation
5. I.C.R OPERATIONAL MANUAL, Editor Dr. Anand R. Kapse,
second edition, 2003; published by Dr. M.L. Dhawale Memorial
trust; page 102 to 105

INTRODUCTION
ABOUT THE AUTHOR interventions have made great progress with
time. But what if a patient does not want surgery

T he scar tissue causes the urethra to become

1. Dr Vaishali P. Joshi, M.D (Hom.),
narrow, making it more difficult for urine
Homoeopathic Physician
to flow. Sometimes, the inflammation or injury
to be done or is fed up with repeated dilatations?
There are many instances like these where the role
of Homoeopathy becomes all the more important.
to the urethra happens long before the stricture Homoeopathic literature is rich with many
becomes noticeable. In other cases, the stricture names of medicines for the treatment of urethral
happens soon after a urethral injury. It can strictures.
lead to obstructive micturition problems at any
age and over time can irreversibly damage the AETIOLOGY
entire urinary tract. They are usually caused by
transurethral interventions and traumatic bladder The commonest cause is Trauma particularly the
catheterization. Diagnosis is chiefly on the basis of rupture of the membranous urethra following
uroflowmetry and cystourethrography. Urethral fracture of the pelvis. At times it follows endoscopy
stricture is much more common in males than in but the most common causes appear to be chronic
females. Mostly the cause remains unknown. inflammation or injury where scar tissue can
gradually form.
In allopathy, there are no definite medications
available. This makes handling of such cases 1. CONGENITAL CAUSE
all the more difficult. Dilatation and surgical 2. TRAUMATIC CAUSE - Which could be

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 61

Case Study
because of the rupture of the bulbous or indwelling catheter is introduced roughly such
membranous part of the urethra. An injury to stricture may occur following injury to the
the penis or scrotum or a straddle injury to the urethral mucous membrane. If an indwelling
scrotum or perineum can also lead to it. catheter is kept for a long time, urethritis may
3. INFLAMMATORY CAUSE– Gonorrhea is occur which may in turn cause stricture. .
the commonest reason in this group leading 5. POST OPERATIVE CAUSES – This happens
to post gonococcal stricture. However its after surgeries like prostatectomy or
incidence is now coming down rapidly due amputation of penis. Whatever the method
to better medicines available. Post gonorrheal applied, about 3 to 4 % of the cases develop
stricture is commonly seen in the bulband stricture following prostatectomy. Such
and constitutes 70 to 80 % of cases. Next stricture is usually situated in the proximal
in frequency is at the penoscrotal junction endof the prostate urethra. It could take the
and the least common site is the distal form of a shelfat the junction of the bladder
part of the spongy urethra. Often in this with the prostatic bed. It may be opened
condition, multiple strictures may be seen. perurethrally and its edges are resected with
Post gonorrheal stricture is never seen in the a urethrotome. While doing suprapubic or
membranous or in the prostatic parts. Usually retropubic prostatectomy, such shelf may be
post gonorrheal stricture develops during the resected with a pair of scissors and then the
1st year after infection. This is followed by margins are carefully sutured.
non gonorrheal acute urethritis or sexually
PATHOLOGY – Whatever may be the cause,
transmitted infections like chlamydia.
it is usually caused by the infiltration of round
Tuberculosis is also one of the causes.
cells and fibroblasts into the periurethral tissue.
4. INSTRUMENTAL CAUSES – Introduction of This usually follows injury or inflammation
indwelling catheter in inexperienced hands or to the urethral mucosa. Gradually there is
endoscopy. This usually occurs due to trauma scar formation to the periurtethral tissue. This
due to passage of too large an endoscope. If gradually encroaches the mucous membrane and

CLASSIFICATION 1

PROXIMAL Common in bulbous urethra ( 70% )

DISTAL Congenital (in the external meatus). It is often traumatic in children

CLASSIFICATION 2

PERMEABLE Permits urine to pass

IMPERMEABLE Does not permit urine to pass

62 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Case Study
CLASSIFICATION 3

PASSABLE Allows catheter to pass

PASSABLE Catheter cannot pass

CLASSIFICATION 4

SINGLE One stricture

MULTIPLE More than one strictures

CLASSIFICATION 5 (According to Part Involved)

THE ROOF Most Common

THE FLOOR Less Common

CLINICAL FEATURES found.

SYMPTOMS COMPLICATIONS
• The most common and initial symptom is • Obstruction to the outflow of urine gradually
gradual diminution of the force and caliber of causes dilatation of the urethra proximal to
the urinary stream. There is decreased urine the stricture. This results in compensatory
stream and incomplete evacuation of the hypertrophy of the bladder musculature
bladder. and there may be formation of diverticula.
• Spraying of the urine stream The back pressure that is caused may lead to
hydroureter or hydronephrosis.
• Some patients also have to strain to urinate.
• The stasis that occurs could lead to
• Increased urge to urinate or more-frequent
infections resulting in prostatitis, cystitis and
urination
pyelonephritis.
• Sometimes pain mild or severe may be felt
• The combined effect of stasis of urine and
depending upon the underlying condition
infection there could be formation of calculi.
and present status.
• Other complications like periurethral
• Symptoms of cystitis like increased frequency,
abscess, urinary fistula etc may be seen.
urgency or nocturia are late to appear.
When periurethral abscess occurs proximal
SIGNS to a tight urethral stricture the patient passes
most of the urine through many such urinary
In long standing cases, it is often possible to fistulae. This condition is called Watering Can
palpate the stricture. A tender mass may be Perineum.
present if periurethral abscess has developed.
• Urethral diverticulum may develop due to
In late untreated cases, urinary fistulas may be

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 63

Case Study

increased intraurethral pressure proximal to elastic bougies) are passed through the
the stricture. stricture under urethroscopy. 2 or 3 are
• At times if the obstruction to the flow of urine passed through the urethra and by to and fro
is severe there could be Urinary Retention. movement, one will pass through the stricture.
It is left in position for 12 hours for sufficient
• If a patient strains excessively or repeatedly, he
dilatation to facilitate subsequent intermittent
could develop Rectal Prolapse, Haemorrhoids
procedures. Otherwise FOLLOWERS made
Or Hernia.
up of gum elastic material is screwed to the
INVESTIGATIONS AND DIAGNOSIS filiform bougie whose caliber is gradually
becoming larger for immediate dilatation.
Urethrogram and voiding cystourethrogram
3. RAPID – full dilatation in one sitting is
reveals the site, lenmgth of the stricture or presence
performed by the KOHLMANN DILATOR.
of a diverticulum. Excretory urograms may reveal
However its not much used because of the
urinary calculi or calculi within the diverticulum
trauma which may be caused.
or changes compatible with pyelonephritis.
SURGICAL TREATMENT –
Retrograde urethrogram. Here a contrast agent is
used. It is squirted into the opening of the penis 1. External urethrotomy
and then the x rays are taken. The contrast that 2. Internal urethrotomy
is visualized on the X-ray film helps locate the 3. Urethroplasty or surgical reconstruction -
stricture and its length. At times, the patient may Here the stricture is excised and urethra is
be asked to urinate once the bladder is full so that reconstructed using preputial skin or scrotal
the stricture can be recognized during the voiding skin (Johanson’s urethroplasty).
process.

Cystoscopy –it is a 10 to 20 minutes procedure

where a small, flexible, camera called a cystoscope HOMEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT AND
is inserted into the penis. Now the inside of the CONCLUSION
urethra is visualized.
In allopathy, there are no definite medications
TREATMENT available. This makes handling of such cases
all the more difficult. Hence the importance of
Using strict aseptic precautions Dilatation is treatment with Homoeopathy which has no side
carried out. There are 3 types of instrumental effects and is a holistic science. Also we have a
dilatations – intermittent, continuous and rapid. number of medicines which can treat judiciously
depending on detailed case taking and symptom
1. INTERMITTENT – This is the most popular similarity. In such cases where surgery is advised
of the 3 methods. Obviously a stricture can Homeopathy definitely has a role to play as is
not be rectified by just a single dilatation. proved by the case. The Homeopathic approach
Repeated dilatations would be required at is always holistic and not merely pathology
intervals. In the 1st instance a medium size related. Also one should remember that we need
bougie is used to dilate. Then sequentially to monitor the patient closely and keep a proper
bigger size bougies are used. This dilatation follow up to check for recurrence if any.
at first is done biweekly and every time the
largest bougie is inserted. After this dilatation Let’s prove this point using the Synthesis
is done weekly for a month. Then fortnightly repertory. It has a specific rubric URETHRA
for 3 months. Then once a month for next 6 STRICTURE ( pg 1063 ). If we dwell deeper into
months, then half yearly for the next 2 years it then we find 77 remedies listed under it. Also it
and lastly once a year. The dilators commonly is further divided into 7 sub rubrics. Of them the
used are Lister’s dilator, Clutton”s dilator or chief remedies are CAN, CLEM, NIT AC, PETR,
filiform Bougies. PULS.
2. CONTINUOUS – Filiform bougies( gum

64 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Case Study
If we were to use Robin Murphy’s repertory, Clearly He Was Losing His Patience And Hope
under the main rubric BLADDER ( PG 208) we Too..
find SRTICTURE, URETHRA. If we dwell deeper
into it then we find 70 remedies listed under it. Past history
Also it is further divided into 5 sub rubrics. Of • BPH in 2015 - Surgery dome
them the chief remedies once again are CAN,
• HTN – On allopathic Medication.
CLEM, NIT AC, PETR, PULS,
• Osteoarthritis – on allopathic medication.
SOME OF INDICATED HOMEOPATHIC • Family history
REMEDIS FOR URETHRAL STRICURES ARE
• He has 5 brothers and 4 Sisters having H/O
1. Clematis Dm 1 and Hypertension.
2. Chimaphila • Mother- HTN - died at 82 yrs
3. Cantharis • Father - Hydrocele - died at 89 yrs
4. Thiosinaminum Personal History
5. Conium mac.
• Thermal stage - Chilly
6. Arnica mon.
• Perspiration - Normal
7. Thuja Occ.
• Appetite- Adequate
8. Cannabis sativa
• Desire- sweet
9. Merc sol
• Thirst-7 to & glass/day
10. Magnesium iod.
• Urine -↑ frequency nocturnal urination is
11. Sulph iod. much more. Also troublesome.
12. Mag. Mur. • Bowel- Constipation Sometimes and then ok
A CASE OF URETHRAL STRICTURE TREATED at times.
WITH HOMEOPATHY • Sleep –sound

A 75 YRS MALE patient who is k/c/o Urethral Mind

Stricture came with burning urination with • Wants everything neat and clean
polyuria and dysuria esp. at night. He had to go
• Fastidious + +
5-6 times to pass urine every night.
• He is Specific for time & date.
He is k/c/o Osteoarthritis. • Extroverted in nature
Patient was absolutely well before 2015 suddenly • Hobby - reading, cricket
he had c/o increased frequency of urine, he had • Happy go lucky person in the past
consulted a urologist and was diagnosed as a case • Intelligent person
of Benign Prostatic Enlargement (Grade 3) for • Hopelessness and despair now (“Am feeling
which he underwent thallium laser eradication out of my mind. As if mind and body have
of prostate. Thereafter he was well but after some become separated”)
days he had developed urethral stricture for which
• Cried, nervous, was trying to find correct
he was advised surgical intervention Cysto + VIU
words to narrate.
holmium laser. After that in 2021 again urethral
stricture was diagnosed. On Examination

This time the patient lost all patience and hope. • BP 114/ 70 mm of Hg
He said he was fed up with all this. “Maybe I am • Pulse 86/ min
never going to come out of this vicious circle”, he
said. “I never wanted to undergo any surgery but
Kya Karein”.

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 65

Case Study

Treatment • Decrease in frequency of urine.

• Pain has decreased while passing of urine.
• Thuja occ. 10M / I dose.
Urinary flow is better now
• Cannabis Indica 30C/ 3 doses on every 4th
• BP 120/ 80 mm of hg
day.
• Pulse 84/min
• Nat Sulph 6x /tds / 14 days
Rx
1st follow-up
Thuja occ.. 10M / I dose.
• Feels better
Cannabis Indica 30C/ 3 doses on every 4th day.

66 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Case Study
2nd follow up Rx
• Better by 25 %. in all complaints. But still Cantharis 30/ I dose
complains of nocturnal aggravation in Berb. Vulg.Q / 15° / 7 days.
micturition.
7th follow up
Rx
• No burning urination. Totally relieved.
Merc sol 30/200/1M on day 1/ 2 / 3
• Burning only on while eats spicy food.
Sac lac 200 C/ tds / 14 days Rx
3rd follow up Sac lac 200 C / tds/ 30 days
• 50% better in all aspects inspite of severe cold. Berb. Vulg.Q / 15° / 30 days.
Mentally also feeling much relaxed.
The patient is very happy. Mentally relaxed. He
Rx talked with the hospital staff too and now is a
Thuja occ.. 10M / 3 doses on every 4th day. staunch believer of Homoeopathy.
Sac lac 200 C/ tds
REFERENCES
Alfalfa Q / 20 drops / 14 days 1. S. DAS, A CONCISE TEXTBOOK OF SURGERY, 9TH EDITION,
PUBLISHED BY DR. S. DAS, KOLKATA, INDIA.2016. PG NO [
4th follow up 1300 – 1302]
2. SRIRAM BHAT M, SRB’S MANUAL OF SURGERY, 5TH
• He is feeling much better. EDITION, PUBLISHED BY JAYPEE BROTHERS MEDICAL
• Urine Stream now improved remarkably. PUBLISHERS (P) LTD, NEW DELHI 2016. PG NO [1053 – 1055]
3. DR. FREDERIK SCHROYENS, AUGMENTED CLINICAL
• BP -110/90 mm of HG. SYNTHESIS EDITED , EDITION 9.1, B JAIN PUBLISHERS (P)
• Pulse - 82/min LTD, 2016.
4. DR. J.T.KENT,REPERTORY OF THE HOMOEOPATHIC
Rx MATERIAL MEDICA BY LOW PRICE EDITION AUG 2006,B
Thuja occ.. 10M / 3 doses on every 4th day. JAIN PUBLISHERS PVT. LTD. DELHI
5. DR. S.R.PHATAK,A CONCISE REPERTORY OF HOMOEPATHIC
Sac lac 200 C / tds MEDICINES BY FOURTH REPRINT EDITION 2006, B JAIN
PUBLISHERS PVT. LTD. DELHI
Withania Q / 20 drops / 14 days 6. WILLIAM BOERICKE, BOERICKE’S POCKET MANUAL OF
HOMOEOPATHIC MATERIA MEDICA AND REPERTORY -
5th follow up LOW PRICE EDITION 2004, B JAIN PUBLISHERS PVT. LTD.
DELHI
• Burning micturition 75% better. Flow of urine
improved remarkably.
• BP-140/90 mm of Hg.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Rx
1. Dr. Jaykumar Chandarana, B Sc. BHMS,
Sac lac 200 C / tds / 14 days NDDY, PGIRPM, M.D.(HOM)
Withania Q / 20 drops / tds /14 days Principal and Medical Superintendent, Prof.
and HOD P.G. dept of Hom. Materia Medica.,
6th follow up (After 1 year)
Baroda Homoeopathic Medical College and
• 100% better in urinary stricture related Hospital, Vadodara Gujarat 391101
complaints 2. Dr. Vaibhav Shah (B.H.M.S.), Senior Medical
• No allopathic medicines or any surgical Officer, Baroda Homoeopathic Medical
intervention was done during the course. College and Hospital,Vadodara, Gujarat
• Now urinary flow is normal but a new
complaint of burning urine since week .
• Burning sensation after urination ++

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 67

 Subjective

Alcoholism And Addiction: What is the

Role of Homoeopathy?
Dr. Devika Chaturvedi, Dr. Ram Prasad Yadav, Dr. Zubair ali khan

ABSTRACT
Alcoholism and substance use disorder are a challenge in day-to-day life. The ever advancing era, change in
lifestyle as well as stress to meet the needs of the society are some of the factors which contribute to addiction
of alcohol and other euphoric substances among youth nowadays. Long working hours, night shifts are some of
the factors which add to addiction. Research and studies are required in the field to find the ways to uproot this
problem. Homoeopathy being a holistic science has the capability to remove the hereditary tendency to addic-
tion as well as to remove the bad effects of substance use.

Keywords: Acetaldehyde, alcoholism, apoptosis, cirrhosis, ethanol, homoeopathy

INTRODUCTION Complications can occur if there is inflammation

of the stomach or oesophagus resulting in gastro-

T he term Alcoholism stands for the condition

when alcohol intake starts affecting physical
and mental health of the individual consuming
intestinal bleeding. Chronic pancreatitis or pan-
creatic cancer are among severe complications. [3]

it. The World Health Organization has estimated Effect on liver:

that as of 2016, there were 380 million people with
alcoholism worldwide (5.1% of the population Chronic alcoholism
over 15 years of age).
Decreased oxidation of fatty acids
frequency and quantity of intake increases the per-
son gets trapped in this vicious cycle of addiction. Accumulation of fat in liver
Acute withdrawal symptoms include headache, Fatty liver disease, hepatitis or cirrhosis [4]
anxiety, nausea, vomiting, insomnia and some-
times hallucinations, confusion and disorienta- Effect on heart-
tion.
Cardiac arrhythmia can occur as a result of binge
Chronic alcoholism increases the risk of gastro- drinking; a syndrome known as holiday heart. [5]
intestinal, nervous, cardiovascular, immune, and
other systemic disorders.[2] Effect on CNS-

Ethanol metabolism Chronic alcoholism can affect the functioning of

CNS in following ways:
Accumulation of acetaldehyde in cells
• Peripheral neuropathy resulting in tingling or
Damage to intracellular proteins numbness especially in hands and feet.
Cell death through apoptosis • Nystagmus due to atrophy of cerebellum.
• Progressive neurological syndrome affecting

68 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
gait and stance. [6] • Taxing alcohol to increase its cost.
• Severe misuse leads to dementia and cognitive • Providing education and treatment.[7]
impairment.

STEPS TO CONTROL ALCOHOLISM- DIAGNOSIS-

• Regulating and limiting the sale of alcohol The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Men-
(particularly to minors) tal Disorders (DSM) is used in United states as a
manual for diagnosis of substance use disorder.

• Alcohol abuse - repeated use despite recurrent

Alcohol abuse, or Alcohol adverse consequences.
DSM-IV • Alcohol dependence - alcohol abuse combined
dependence with tolerance, withdrawal, and an uncontrollable
drive to drink.[8]”

EFFICACY OF HOMOEOPATHY-Homoeopath- received placebo, another group received homeo-

ic literature illustrates the efficacy of homoeopa- pathic remedies and the third group was given
thy in alcoholism and substance use disorders. conventional detox treatment. Among all the
three groups, patients who were given homeo-
A french physician Dr. Gallavardin published a pathic medicines had the lowest relapse rate that
book in 1890 “The Homeopathic Treatment of Alco- is only 32 percent compared to 68 percent in the
holism” in which he explained about treatment of placebo group and 72 percent in the conventional
over two thousand alcoholics from homoeopathic detox group.
remedies.[9] In this book he mentioned homoeo-
pathic medicines having peculiar affinity in case A study was published in 2014 in India describing
of alcoholism like Nux vomica, Lachesis, Sulphur the use of homeopathic medicines for acute alco-
etc. hol withdrawal (AAW) symptoms. [11]

He explained a case in which he accidentally re- HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINES FOR ALCO-

lieved a woman of an “addiction to Southern HOLISM- [12]
Comfort” (her words) using Sulphur. The woman
consulted for some other complaint. Southern
Comfort was her favourite alcoholic beverage 1. ABSINTHIUM- Sudden and severe giddiness,
which she consumed daily. After one month of delirium with hallucinations and loss of
consultation when she came for follow up she said consciousness. Nervous excitement and
that she has completely lost interest in Southern sleeplessness. Hallucinations. Frightful vision.
Comfort. Even she can’t look at the bottle which Loss of memory. Forgets what has happened
makes her feel nauseating. recently.
2. AGARICUS MUSCARIUS- It corresponds
to various forms of cerebral excitement
In 1993, a randomized, double-blind, placebo- rather than congestion. Thus, it is indicated
controlled trial was conducted at Hahnemann in alcoholism (delirium tremens). Delirium
College of Homeopathy in Albany, California in characterized by singing, shouting and
which homeopathy was given both for chemical muttering; rhymes and prophecies.
and alcohol dependency.[10] The duration of the 3. APOCYANUM CANNABINUM- Indicated in
study was eight months including seven hundred acute alcoholism
three drug and alcohol patients. All the study sub-
4. ASARUM EUROPAEUM- Desire for alcoholic
jects were divided into three groups, one group

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 69

Subjective
drinks with loss of appetite, flatulence, 21. STROPHANTHUS HISPIDUS- Nausea with
eructations and vomiting. special disgust for alcohol and thus aids in
5. AVENA SATIVA- Sleeplessness especially the treatment of dipsomania. Seven drops of
in alcoholics. Nervous exhaustion, sexual tincture.
debility, morphine habit often call for this 22. SULPHURICUM ACIDUM- Craving for
remedy in rather material dose. alcohol. Water causes coldness of the stomach
6. CALCAREA ARSENICOSA- Complaints in and must be mixed with liquor. Relaxed
drunkards after abstaining feeling in the stomach.
7. CAPSICUM ANNUM- Abstainers from 23. SULPHUR- Very forgetful. Difficulty in
accustomed alcoholism. Delirium tremens. thinking. Delusions; thinks rags are beautiful
Prostration and feeble digestion in alcoholics. things; that he is emmensely wealthy. Averse
to business; loafs; too lazy to rouse himself.
8. CARBONEUM SULPHURATUM- Very useful
Great acidity, sour eructation.
in patients broken down by abuse of alcohol.
24. SYPHILLINUM- Hereditary tendency to
9. COCCULUS INDICUS- Desire for cold drink
alcoholism. Apathetic; feels as if going insane
especially beer.
or being paralyzed. Craves for alcohol.
10. COFFEA CRUDA- Excessive hunger and
25. VERATRUM ALBUM- A perfect picture of
intolerance of tight clothing after wine and
collapse with extreme coldness, blueness
liquor.
and weakness is offered by this drug. Cold
11. FLOURICUM ACIDUM- Hob-nailed liver of perspiration on forehead.
alcoholics.
“coprophagia” violent mania alternates with a
12. KALI BICHROMICUM- Nausea and vomiting refusal to talk. Sullen indifference.
after beer. Desire for beer and acids.
26. ZINCUM METALLICUM- Cannot stand the
13. LACHESIS- Craving for alcohol and oysters. smallest quantity of wine. Ravenous hunger
14. NUX MOSCHATA- Irresistible drowsiness. around 11am.
Great inclination to become unconscious.
15. NUX VOMICA- For individuals who lead RUBRICS FROM DIFFERENT REPERTORIES
a sedentary life who seek for stimulants like RELATED TO ALCOHOLISM-
coffee, wine, possibly in excess, he hopes to
quiten his excitement, by indulging in sedative I. Rubrics from Kent’s repertory- [13]
effect of tobacco, if not really a victim to the
sedative drugs like opium. MIND- DIPSOMANIA
16. QUASSIA AMARA- Atonic dyspepsia with MIND- Mania-a-potuVERTIGO - ALCOHOLIC
gas and acidity. Heartburn and gastralgia. liquors
Regurgitation of food.
17. QUERCUS GLANDIUM SPIRITUS- Takes HEAD - CONGESTION, hyperaemia etc., - alco-
away the craving of alcohol. Antidotes bad holic liquors agg.
effect of alcohol.
HEAD - PAIN - alcoholics.
18. RANUNCULUS BULBOSUS- Bad effect of
HEAD - PAIN - odors - alcohol,of
alcohol; delirium tremens.
HEAD - PAIN - nail,as from a - alcoholics, after
19. SELENIUM METALLICUM- Desire for
brandy and other strong drinks. STOMACH - AVERSION to - alcoholic stimulants
20. STRAMONIUM- Delirium tremens. Sensation
as if limbs were separated from the body. STOMACH - DESIRES - alcoholic drinks
Loquacious, garrulous, laughing, singing,
praying, beseeching, rhyming. Delirium with STOMACH - HICCOUGH - alcoholic drinks, after
a desire to escape.

70 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
RECTUM - DIARRHOEA - alcoholic drinks, after- MIND - INDIFFERENCE - dearest friends; even
RECTUM - DIARRHOEA - spirits towards - alcoholism; in chronic

URINE - ALBUMINOUS - alcohol, after abuse of MIND - KORSAKOFF's psychosis - alcoholism

COUGH - ALCOHOL MIND - MANIA - alcoholic drinks; from

CHILL - ALCOHOL, abuse of MIND - QUARRELSOME - alcoholism; in

GENERALS - ALCOHOLIC stimulants MIND - SADNESS - alcoholics; in

GENERALS - DRUNKARDS MIND - STUPOR - alcoholic

GENERALS - WEAKNESS,enervation - alcoholic MIND - TIMIDITY - alcohol amel.

drinks amel.
MIND - UNCONSCIOUSNESS - alcoholic
II. RUBRICS FROM SYNTHESIS REPERTORY-
[14]
VERTIGO - ALCOHOLIC drinks, from

VERTIGO - ALCOHOLICS; in
MIND - AILMENTS FROM - alcoholism - absti-
nence of alcohol HEAD - ALCOHOLIC drinks

MIND - ALCOHOLISM HEAD - CONGESTION - alcoholic liquors agg.

etc.
MIND - ALCOHOLISM - excitement, from alco-
holism III. RUBRICS FROM MURPHY REPERTORY-
[15]

MIND - ALCOHOLISM - hereditary

ABDOMEN - COLDNESS - drinking, after - alco-
MIND - CLARITY of mind - alcohol; in spite of hol, spirituous, after

MIND - CONCENTRATION - difficult - alcohol ARMS - WEAK, arms - powerless - alcoholism, in

amel. chronic

MIND - CONFUSION of mind - alcoholic drinks; BLADDER - STRICTURE, urethra - alcoholics, in

after
BLADDER - URINATION, general - painful, uri-
MIND - DELIRIUM - alcoholic nation - alcoholic drinks, from

MIND - DELIRIUM TREMENS - small quantity of BLOOD - LEUKEMIA, general - constitutions

alcoholic stimulants, from broken down by gonorrhea, syphilis, alcohol, etc.

MIND - DIPSOMANIA BLOOD - VARICOSE, veins, general - alcohol,

from
MIND - DRINKING alcohol; complaints after
BRAIN - COMA, unconsciousness - alcoholic
MIND - EXCITEMENT - alcohol amel.
BRAIN - COMA, unconsciousness - alcoholic - de-

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 71

Subjective
lirium tremens syphilis, alcohol, etc.

BRAIN - COMA, unconsciousness - delirium tre- DISEASES - DELIRIUM tremens, mania-a-potu

mens
DISEASES - DELIRIUM tremens, mania-a-potu -
BRAIN - COMA, unconsciousness - vertigo, dur- small quantity of alcoholic stimulants, from
ing - alcoholics, of
DISEASES - EDEMA, general, external - alcohol-
BREATHING - DIFFICULT, breathing - alcoholics ism, from

CHEST - BLEEDING, from lungs and chest - al- DISEASES - GASTRITIS, stomach - alcohol
coholics, in abuse, from

CHILLS - ALCOHOL, abuse from DISEASES - GOUT, general - alcoholics, in

CONSTITUTIONS - ALCOHOLIC, constitutions DISEASES - HEARTBURN - alcoholics, in

CONSTITUTIONS - ELDERLY, people - alcohol, DISEASES - PULMONARY, edema, lungs - alco-

women accustomed to taking holics, in

CONSTITUTIONS - GOUTY, constitutions - alco- DISEASES - STRICTURE, urethra - alcoholics, in

holics etc.

CONSTITUTIONS - RHEUMATIC, constitutions IV. RUBRICS FROM BOGER BOENNING-

- abuse of alcohol HAUSEN CHARACTERISTICS AND
REPERTORY(BBCR)- [16]
CONSTITUTIONS - WEAK, constitutions - alco-
holic drinks amel. MIND - Alcoholism, intoxication, etc.

CONSTITUTIONS - WEAK, constitutions - alco- MIND - Amelioration - alcoholic stimulants

holism, in
SENSORIUM - Alcoholism, as of
COUGHING - ALCOHOL, from drinking
HEAD - Internal - aggravation - alcoholic liquors
COUGHING - ALCOHOLICS, coughs of
HEAD - Internal - amelioration - alcoholic liquors
COUGHING - SPIRITS
EYES - Aggravation - alcoholism, from
DELUSIONS - DOOMED, being - alcoholics, in
EYES - Vision - aggravation - alcohol, abuse of
DISEASES - ALCOHOL, general
NOSE - Bleeding - alcoholics
DISEASES - ALCOHOLISM, dipsomania
NOSE - Smell - illusions of - brandy, alcohol, etc.
DISEASES - BRIGHT'S disease, kidneys - alcohol,
from abuse of CORYZA - Aggravation - alcoholic drinks

DISEASES - CANCER, general - leukemia, FACE - Pimples on - red (acne of alcoholics)

blood - constitutions broken down by gonorrhea,

72 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

 Subjective
TEETH - Aggravation - alcoholic drinks 3. Nitsche C, Simon P, Weiss FU, et al. Environmental risk
factors for chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. Dig Dis.
2011;29(2):235–242.
MOUTH - Aggravation - alcoholic drinks 4. Gao B, Bataller R. Alcoholic liver disease: pathogenesis and new
therapeutic targets. Gastroenterology. 2011;141(5):1572–1585.

APPETITE - Aversion - alcoholic drink 5. Greenspon AJ, Schaal SF. The “holiday heart”: electrophysiologic
studies of alcohol effects in alcoholics. Ann Intern Med.
1983;98(2):135–139.
APPETITE - Desire - alcoholic liquors; for 6. Chopra K, Tiwari V. Alcoholic neuropathy: possible mechanisms
and future treatment possibilities. Br J Clin Pharmacol.
2012;73(3):348–362.
NAUSEA AND VOMITING - Amelioration - 7. World Health Organization (January 2015). “Alcohol". Archived
alcoholic drinks from the original on 23 May 2015.
8. VandenBos GR (2006). APA dictionary of psychology. Washington,
DC: American Psychological Association. ISBN 978-1-59147-380-
STOMACH - Cramp, gastric - of alcoholics and 0.
gluttons 9. Gallavardin JP. The Homoeopathic Treatment of Alcoholism.
Philadelphia, PA: Hahnemann Publishing House, 1890.
STOMACH - Digestion - weak - alcoholics, in 10. Garcia-Swain S. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial applying
homeopathy to chemical dependency. Albany, CA: Hahnemann
College of Homeopathy, 1993.
STOMACH - Amelioration - alcoholic, liquors 11. Nayak D, Arora S, Singh U, et al. Managing acute alcohol
withdrawal with homoeopathy: a prospective, observational,
multicentre exploratory study. Indian Journal of Research in
URINE - Micturition - urination - strangury - Homoeopathy 2014;8(4):224-30.
alcohol, from 12. Boericke W. Boericke’s New Manual of Homoeopathic Materia
Medica with Repertory.9th Edition. New Delhi:B Jain Publishers
Pvt Ltd;2011
URINE - Conditions of urination - alcohol, abuse 13. Kent JT.Repertory of the Homoeopathic Materia Medica. 6th
of edition. Noida. B.Jain Publishers(P) Ltd;2018
14. Schroyens F.Synthesis Repertorium Homoeopathicum
Syntheticum 9.1ed.B.Jain publishers Ltd.2008
UPPER EXTREMITIES - Aggravation - alcohol-
15. Murphy R.Homoeopathic medical repertory. New Delhi. 1st
ism edition. Indian books and periodical syndicate;1993
16. Boger CM, Boger Boenninghausen’s Characteristics and
SENSATIONS AND COMPLAINTS IN GEN- Repertory. B. Jain Publishers Pvt. Limited;2016
ERAL - Trembling - alcoholics, of
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
CONDITIONS OF AGGRAVATION AND AME- 1. Dr. Devika Chaturvedi, PG Scholar,
LIORATION IN GENERAL - Food - alcoholic Department of Case taking and repertory,
drinks State National Homoeopathic Medical College
and Hospital, Lucknow
CONCLUSION 2. Dr. Ram Prasad Yadav, PG Scholar,
Department of Case taking and repertory,
Thus, study of various literatures shows us the State National Homoeopathic Medical College
efficacy of homoeopathy in management of bad and Hospital, Lucknow
effects of alcoholism and other substance use but 3. Dr. Zubair ali khan, PG Scholar, Department of
more studies and researches are needed in the Materia Medica, State National Homoeopathic
field for validation of results. Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow
REFERENCES
1. Grant BF, Chou SP, Saha TD, et al. Prevalence of 12-month alcohol
use, high-risk drinking, and DSM-IV Alcohol Use Disorder in the
United States, 2001-2002 to 2012-2013: results from the National
Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions. JAMA
Psychiatry 2017;74(9):911-23.
2. Guo R, Ren J. Alcohol and acetaldehyde in public health: from
marvel to menace. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2010;7:1285–
1301.

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 73

 Book Review

Gentle Medicine By
Dr. Joachim-F. Gratz

About the Reviewer conflicts, biological rule of handedness, the impact

of this on creation of disease and the analysis from
Dr. Kavita Chandak , MD (India), the perspective of modern medicine and homeopa-
PG. Hom(London),PHD(France) thy.
is an author, international
trainer, speaker and promoter The next chapter explains Encephalopathy -A neces-
of homeopathy, practicing sary consequence of vaccinations. With clear refer-
for 23 years, honored by three ences, Dr. Gratz explains how statistical tricks have
Golden Book of World Records, recipient of been used to spread the so-called benefits of vacci-
many prestigious awards(the recent ‘Excellence nation, how vaccination became the main cause of
in Homeopathy-2022) providing her services demyelinating encephalopathies, how vaccination
through her web clinic in 20+ countries. can intensify the primary miasmas and can shift the
general health situation towards destruction.
Health today is standing on a precarious junction, The chapter that follows comprehends Dr. Gratz’s
a vicious and dangerous menacing turn. Though practice and experience in treating patients with
we have seen increased life span but will it last for
how many generations is questionable. At a very gentle medicine. They are
young age, we are getting pushed towards chronic different patients of neu-
illnesses, dangerous chemical drugs and incorrect rodermatitis, psoriasis,
diagnosis; this eventually leads to early deaths un- Lyme, disease infections,
less something magical happens to the perceiver's cardiovascular diseases,
health and disease. chronic asthma, allergies
and many more.
Dr. Joachim-F. Gratz’s book Gentle Medicine, the
true causes of diseases, healing and health reinforc- The next chapter features
es repeatedly the universal law of nature and why FAQs. Among other things
correct medical approach is needed. This book gives vaccination, antibiotics,
us a new perspective and understanding about ill- conventional treatment
ness and health. This book does not present theories
or hypotheses or ask to believe in any one system. and protocols are discussed.
It serves to clarify, reinforce, strengthen and to un- This amazing journey of Dr. Gratz ends with an
derstand health diseases with classical homeopathy. elaborate Appendix. Every serious homeopath, ev-
Chapter by chapter he has resolved the entire if and ery single nonprofessional and every generous hu-
buts we have in our minds with rational and logi- man being must appreciate this hoard of treasure
cal thinking. The scientific frauds perpetuated in the being worthy of everyone’s bookshelf. This has ticks
past the horrendous treatment methods used and on all the right boxes. Good quality paper, printing,
harrowing stories of some atrocities done under the binding and front back cover. This is worthy of be-
title of development and science in the recent years. ing read not once but more often like our Organon.

The chapters give us vision to identify individual My thanks and gratitude to Dr. Gratz for writing
miasm and the need to focus on correct prescription such an amazing book. This will inspire generations
and with a miasmatic understanding of the dynam- of all the practitioners, homeopaths and common
ic and zestful process of real disease. person. This is a recipient of esteem pride amongst
the important and most intensely loved book collec-
In the next chapter, Dr. Gratz skillfully explained tion.
German New Medicine, the section on biological

74 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023

August 2023 | The Homoeopathic Heritage | 75
76 | The Homoeopathic Heritage August 2023