Faculty of Health Sciences
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Item Homoeopathic perceptions of gut dysbiosis as a clinically significant obstacle to cure(2024) Hendriks, Marizel; Ghuman, ShanazEchoing Hippocrates' notion that “All diseaes begin in the gut”, recent scientific research strengthens the connection between gut microbial health with overall well-being. This study delves into how South African homoeopathic practitioners address gut dysbiosis, a microbial imbalance within the gut linked to various chronic conditions. Homoeopaths interviewed for this study observed a rise in gut dysbiosis, attributing it to factors like lifestyle choices and medication use. Their treatment approach emphasizes individualized remedies and therapies tailored to each patient's unique physical, mental, and emotional symptoms. Treatment plans often incorporate dietary modifications, alongside the use of probiotics and prebiotics to support gut health. The study reveals gut dysbiosis as a significant obstacle to cure in homoeopathic treatment. The high cost of stool analysis tests restricts their use in assessing gut health, making it challenging for the interviewed homoeopaths to arrive at a diagnosis. Participants expressed a strong need for more comprehensive education on gut dysbiosis and bowel nosodes within the South African homoeopathic training curriculum. In conclusion, this study suggests that gut dysbiosis presents a clinically significant obstacle to cure in homoeopathic treatment for chronic conditions. A holistic approach combining homoeopathic remedies with dietary and lifestyle changes appears to be effective. Further research is warranted to enhance homoeopathic education on gut health and its impact on chronic diseases.Item The comparison effect of Avena sativa, Gingko biloba and Withania somnifera on germination of barley seeds (Hordeom Vulgare)(2024) Hadebe, Zanele Nqobile; Couchman, Ingrid; Mugwedi, LutendoBackground Agriculture is one of the main contributors to the South african economy. Feeding a growing population, availability of skilled farmers and sustaining an environment are amongst the three crucial issues agriculture faces. Fertilisers are one of the main solutions for growth of plants in agriculture, however, these fertilisers are often used at the cost of the environment.This has stirred a universal hunt for economic friendly alternatives like biofertiliser. Aim of the study This research study aims to determine the effects of three homoeopathic decimal dilutions (3X) of Avena sativa, Gingko biloba and Withania somnifera on barley seeds (Hordeum vulgare). The homoeopathic decimal dilutions of Avena sativa, Gingko biloba and Withania somnifera were selected as they possess phytochemicals that could be beneficial to increase plant crop yield. Methodology Benyunes(2005) German Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia (GHP) 4a specifications were followed for creating the homoeopathically manufactured (3X) decimal dilutions of Withania somnifera, Avena sativa and Gingko biloba for the investigation. A randomised complete block was used in the experimental setup at the Durban University of Technology's Horticulture Department nursery. Two experiments were conducted simultaneously: Experiment A (treatments made with deionised water) and Experiment B (treatments made with 30% ethanol). Experiment A A total of 600 barley seeds were germinated in three trays labelled 1 to 4 with tags separating the seedling trays into four categories, namely: Avena sativa 3X, Gingko biloba 3X, Withanania somnifera 3X and control (deionised water). Each tray consisted of 200 barley seeds, 200/4 = 50 seeds in each category. Thus, the experiment was replicated three times. Experiment B A total of 600 barley seedswere germinated in three trays labelled 4 to 6 with tags separating the seedling trays into four categories, namely: Avena sativa 3X, Gingko biloba 3X, Withanania somnifera 3X and control (30% alcohol). Each tray consisted of 200 barley seeds, 200/4 = 50 seeds in each category. Thus, the experiment was replicated three times. The study was conducted over a 23-day period. This research utilised a quantitative method to collect data before and post-harvest. The number of seedlings that emerged, stem diameter and shoot height were measured before harvest. Ten seedlings were randomly selected from each replicate (i.e., 30 seedlings per treatment). One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare seed germination, leaf number, stem diameter, shoot height, root length, shoot weight and root weight, followed by the Tukey HSD test (a = 0.05). The paired sample test was used to compare the difference between treatments that used water as a vehicle and those that used ethanol as a vehicle (P = 0.05). The data collected were analysed using software (IBM SPSS Statistics v27; IBM Corp). Results The results indicated that there were significant differences in the germination percentage, leaf number, shoot height and shoot weight in the seedlings grown in deionised water as a vehicle. It was found that with deionised water as vehicle, Avena sativa had the highest germination percentage and highest root weight. Control (deionised water) had the highest leaf numbers and the tallest shoots. Gingko biloba had highest shoot weight for the samples grown using deionised water as the vehicle. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in most of the parameters tested for the seedlings grown in ethanol except for except germination percentage between Gingko biloba and control and another significance of difference in Gingko biloba,Withania somnifera and Avena sativa on germination percentage as parameter as well as significance of difference between control (ethanol),Gingko biloba and Withania somnifera on stem diameter as parameter . It was found that deionised water appeared to be the best growth vehicle for Avena sativa and Gingko biloba extracts while Withania somnifera was the best when ethanol was used as a vehicle. Conclusion Based on the results, it can be concluded that the overall best treatment that can benefit farmers was Avena sativa with deionizide water as a vehicle as it had the highest germination percentage and root weight. Ethanol had an inhibitory effect when used with homoeopathic remedies, so deionised water was the best growth vehicle. The results indicated that there is a potential for homoeopathy in agriculture, and more studies are required. Farmers can then produce good crops while sustaining the environmentItem An exploration into the study of the corresponding materia medica regarding trauma of neglect in canines(2022-09-29) Reuben, Oriel Rose; Hall, Cornelia MariaThis study explores the trauma of neglect presented by canines. It aims to identify the common signs, symptoms and behaviours exhibited, and subsequently to determine the most indicative homoeopathic remedies. Objectives The primary objective was to determine signs, symptoms and behavioural patterns of trauma exhibited by canines. The secondary objective was to establish the common themes surrounding traumatised canines. Lastly, the third objective was to conduct a reportorial and thematic analysis to deduce the most indicative homoeopathic remedies. Methodology The study was done by means of purposive sampling and snowball sampling from ten suitable research participants. These participants are experienced in the care of neglected and traumatised canines and included members of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), veterinarians, and other animal welfare organisations who met the research criteria. After a brief telephonic conversation to confirm suitability, an appointment was made to meet each participant at a specific animal shelter. Each participant was given a letter with a summary of the study and an informed consent form, which allowed the researcher to observe the canines and interview the participants with probing questions. These interviews were audio recorded. Data was assessed for common themes using Hycner (1985) data explication process. General and unique themes as well as symptom profiles were repertorised by means of various reportorial methods of MacRepertory (Archibel 2014), which helped to identify emerging homoeopathic remedies. Results Data analysis revealed six main themes in traumatised and neglected canines and their correlation to the use of homoeopathic treatment for canines. The results illustrated that canines could benefit from homoeopathic medication to treat physical and mental symptoms, which also lays the foundation for future researchers to further explore this conceptItem Investigating the perceptions and experiences of parents and guardians regarding paediatric Homoeopathic care received from Homoeopaths in the eThekwini Municipality(2022-09-29) Strauss, Tylah; Hall, Cornelia Maria; Erwin, KiraBackground: Homoeopathy is a Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapy that is based on the law of similars – “Let Likes be Cured by Likes" – whereby substances that are capable of causing diseases in healthy people can be used in an infinitesimal dose as remedies to treat the similar disorder in someone who is ill. Globally homoeopathy is receiving greater recognition nowadays, particularly for its use in children. This is a result of parents seeking out treatments which they believe to be more tailored and "natural". However, this same trend is not mirrored in a South African setting. Despite there being a greater recognition of homoeopathy, the research on homoeopathy in South Africa (especially paediatric homoeopathy) is scarce and overseas trends cannot be extrapolated to a South African population. Therefore, this study aimed to fill a gap in the literature by exploring and describing the perceptions and experiences of parents and legal guardians regarding paediatric homoeopathy care received from homoeopaths in the eThekwini Municipality. Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the perceptions and experiences of parents and legal guardians regarding paediatric homoeopathic care received from homoeopaths in the eThekwini Municipality. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. This study was conducted on 12 parents regarding paediatric homoeopathy care received from one of the homoeopaths in the eThekwini Municipality. The interviews began with a 'grand tour' question followed by other approved questions to gauge these perceptions and experiences. The interviews were conducted in English and later transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were analysed using Tesch's 8-step approach to qualitative research, whereby specific recurring themes are extracted from the data. Results: A total of 12 participants were interviewed. Four major themes emerged from the data: perceptions of homoeopathy, experiences of homoeopathy, challenges to homoeopathy and their possible solutions, homoeopathy versus allopathy, and an unplanned emergent theme of motherhood. The participants had varying levels of knowledge of homoeopathy depending on their level of connection (i.e. those with a close friend/relative who was in the profession had a better understanding). There were uniform perceptions of homoeopathy being "natural", "gentle", allusions to the law of similars and principle of the minimum dose, individualistic treatment and the stimulation of the vital force in order to allow the body to heal itself. Homoeopathic medication had perceptions of having no side-effects, having the ability to treat a wide array of conditions, and difficult dosages to adhere to. The overall experiences of homoeopathy were exceedingly positive. The participants commented on the thoroughness of the consult, the need for the practitioner to delve deep to find out the cause for the disease, the availability of the practitioner and the empathy and care felt. Awareness and education to the public, public access of OTC homoeopathic remedies, multi-disciplinary approach to paediatric management and integration into public healthcare proved to be the most beneficial solutions. When comparing homoeopathy to allopathy, we see that the homoeopathic holistic approach (whereby all symptoms are considered and there is an attempt to treat on more than just the physical plane) is preferred, there is a great mistrust with the pharmaceutical industry and participants wanted to be active participants in selecting which form of healthcare they chose. Mothers proved to be a valuable source in gaining awareness and mouth-to-mouth referral; their role in paediatric healthcare is paramount. Conclusion: Overall there were positive perceptions and experiences of homoeopathy, however, greater effort needs to be placed on education of the public, building relationships with other professionals and integration into public health care. Future studies should assess a wider catchment area, include quantitative research to get statistical evidence of efficacy, conduct in-person interviews to assure the quality of the data and include the role of mothers in future paediatric healthcare. Recommendations for the homoeopathic community include making information accessible to patients, increasing awareness of homoeopathy to the public and building inter-professional relationships and integrating into public healthcare.Item Exploring the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of Homoeopathy and the Ukuba Nesibindi Homoeopathic Community Centre (UNHCC) in the Warwick Junction community(2022-09-29) Gama, Khulu Khwezi Kwazi; Hall, Cornelia Maria; Ngobese, BrianIntroduction The South African public healthcare system is maintained as an under-resourced and overburdened area of the economy. This has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic which continues to be a source of concern. CAM usage has increased exponentially, with homoeopathy being the second- fastest growing medicinal modality globally. With that said, the assumption would be that homoeopathy is growing in acceptance and understanding. However, research indicates a moderate knowledge of homoeopathy in South African communities, particularly in African communities, which make up 80% of the total South African population. Aim of the study The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions held by the Warwick Junction community members towards homoeopathy and the Ukuba Nesibindi Homoeopathic Community Centre (UNHCC). This was to understand the notable lack of knowledge about homoeopathy and the UNHCC, which is the pioneering satellite clinic under the auspices of the Durban University of Technology, as well as factors influencing this lack of progress in knowledge, despite the increasing need for healthcare. Methodology A qualitative, explorative and phenomenological design was employed in this study. Qualitative research was considered the most appropriate method to collect primary data to ensure an in-depth understanding of the participants’ knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of homoeopathy and the Ukuba Nesibindi Homoeopathic Community Centre (UNHCC). This design also fostered freedom of expression without the hinderance created by a selection of responses as with a survey. Thirteen participants from the Warwick junction community were interviewed. Results It was discovered that 23% of the participants were familiar with homoeopathy and 45% understood the functioning of the UNHCC. Of the 23% that were familiar with homoeopathy, it was viewed as a natural but foreign medicinal modality and not well understood. Of the 45% that understood the purpose of the UNHCC facility, there was an understanding that the facility was reserved for HIV testing and counselling. The lack of knowledge regarding homoeopathy and the UNHCC can be ascribed to the lack of effective marketing of the facility, linked to commercial advertising legislations; the ambiguous nomenclature ’Ukuba Nesibindi’ and the physical location of the facility. The generally poor growth in knowledge of homoeopathy can also be attributed to the increase in conventional medicine through mass production of pharmaceutical drugs and polypharmacy for financial gain, with no parallel strategy evident in the distribution of CAM.Item Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of community members of the Maluti-a-Phofung municipality, Free Sate, on homoeopathy(2021) Monareng, Karabo Innocentia; Alwar, Vanishree; Couchman, IngridIntroduction: In South Africa Registered Homoeopaths are able to diagnose, prevent or treat physical and mental disease, illness or deficiencies in humans, prescribe or dispense medicine, or provide or prescribe treatment for such disease, illness or deficiencies in humans. Homoeopathy is one of the fastest growing healthcare systems worldwide (Manchanda 2018). Nevertheless, in South Africa there is a lack of knowledge and understanding of Homoeopathy and this has led to the limited utilization thereof. This survey intended to meet the following objectives; 1) To determine the knowledge of Homoeopathy amongst residents of the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality in Free State Province and 2.) To determine the attitudes toward Homoeopathy amongst residents in the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality in Free State Province and 3) To determine the perceptions of Homoeopathy amongst residents in Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality in Free State Province. Methodology: The study employed a quantitative design, which utilised a self-administered questionnaire to collect data. The setting of the study was at Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality, Free State Province, Qwaqwa, also called Witsieshoek, which has a population of 100 228. The data that emerged from the research was analysed in line with achieving the research objectives. All analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. The collected data was analysed by use of both descriptive and inferential statistics with the level of significance set at 0.05. Results: Out of the 226 respondents who participated in the survey, only 27% (n=61) had heard about Homoeopathy and most of their knowledge was from the media. Among this group (n=61) the majority believed that Homoeopathic medicine can treat the majority of diseases, that it emphasises a healthy life style, prescribes plants extracts, boosts the immune system, usually prescribes a diet, and prescribes medicines that are diluted and shaken. The majority of the respondents in this group (n=61) also perceived that the practice of Homoeopathy has scientific base, the medicines have undergone clinical validation through experimentation, are safe for use in infants, during pregnancy and in the elderly. Equally as important, it was found that some of the respondents (n=23) considered Homoeopathic medicine to be more effective in the treatment of both acute and chronic conditions than orthodox medicine. Subsequent to answering the survey, some of the participants mentioned that they would consider consulting with a Homoeopath because it was natural and many of the respondents showed interest in learning more of Homoeopathy. Conclusion: The data collected in this study confirms that of the 226 respondents who participated in the survey, only 27% (n=61) had heard about Homoeopathy. This confirms the significant lack of knowledge of the profession amongst residents of Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality.Item An investigative documentation of the homoeopathic management of diabetes mellitus type 2 in KwaZulu-Natal(2020-11-30) Moodley, Nivania; Maharaj, M.; Alwar, VanishreeDiabetes mellitus, or commonly known as diabetes, is a chronic condition that manifests when the pancreas can no longer produce insulin or when the body is unable to utilise the insulin that the pancreas produces. In diabetes mellitus type 2, patients commonly affected are middle aged adults. Prior to diagnosis there is an asymptomatic stage classified as prediabetes. During this stage there is mild hyperglycaemia, insulin resistance and an early decrease in insulin secretion. Diabetes mellitus type 2 is a growing concern among the Black and Asian community in South Africa, more so affecting the high density of the abovementioned race groups in the KwaZulu-Natal Province. According to a recent investigation conducted (Brown et al, October 2015) in 2014 it was recorded that the KwaZulu-Natal Province had 1,288,973 diabetic patients registered in governmental health schemes. According to an article published on the National Health portal of India, Homoeopathy has had a positive role in the treatment and management of early diagnosed diabetes mellitus cases (Das 2016). Although at present there is no standard protocol for the Homoeopathic treatment and management of diabetes mellitus Type 2, Yoga, Naturopathy and homoeopathic remedies are among the many holistic methods utilized by homoeopaths. The main priority is to first control the elevated blood sugar levels to save the patient from life threatening complications. This is often done by prescribing homoeopathic remedies that could reduce the blood sugar levels. Aim The aim of this qualitative study is to determine the homoeopathic management of diabetes mellitus type 2 in the KwaZulu-Natal Province Methodology A study paradigm of qualitative, descriptive and exploratory design was employed in this study. Qualitative methods were selected for this study to gain an in-depth view of the methods homoeopathic practitioners use to manage type 2 diabetes in their patients. The population for this study included a minimum of 10 homoeopathic practitioners all of whom were registered with the Allied Health professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA) and were practicing in KwaZulu-Natal for a minimum of 5 years (in private practice), selected through purposive sampling. The data collected was analysed using Tesch and Creswell’s methods of analysis. Results The results showed that the homeopathic management of diabetes mellitus type 2 involved indepth case taking and analysis with individualization of each case. Practitioners were involved in the health and well-being of their patients and put emphasis on patient education. Some of the ways in which practitioners managed diabetes mellitus type 2 in their practices included prescription of a constitutional remedy attained through thorough case taking, phytotherapeutic modalities, nutrition advice and referrals to specialist practitioners when necessary Conclusion In light of the results and discussion shared in Chapters 4 and 5, the main aspects of the homoeopathic management of Diabetes mellitus type 2 consist of full case taking and analysis by the practitioner, leading to a constitutional prescription for the patient. The findings in this study reveal that, unlike in allopathic treatment, there is no one specific remedy or group of remedies that are the first point of treatment for a patient seeking homoeopathic care. The management process is a very tailored and individualized method of treatment that considers the patient in their entiretyItem A model for the integration of homeopathy into the public healthcare system in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa(2020-06-10) Majola, Sindile Fortunate; Nkosi, P. B.Background The public healthcare system in South Africa services the majority of its population, as many are unable to afford the services that exist in the private sector. Due to this momentous task of servicing millions of South Africans, the public sector has become overburdened with many issues. Some of the issues that plague this sector include a lack of resources, insufficiency of personnel and financial constraints due to over-usage. Based on this context, the introduction of complementary alternative medicine, such as homoeopathy, into the public healthcare system exists as one of the potential resolutions to this burdened healthcare sector. Aim The aim of the study was to gather data, both descriptive and statistical, from healthcare professionals in KZN in order to develop a model for integrating homoeopathy into the public healthcare system. Methodology The researcher conducted a mixed methods study using an explanatory sequential design. Thus, the study was conducted in two Phases. Phase 1 employed quantitative measurement tools, where data was collected from medical doctors, nurses and homoeopaths through paper-and-pen/ electronic surveys. This data was analysed using version 25 of the SPSS software. Phase 2 incorporated measurement tools, where data was collected from Chief Operating Officers as well as nursing managers through semi-structured interviews. This data was analysed using Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis. The data from both phases was then compared and contrasted to formulate a model for integration. Findings Based on the current circumstances that exist in South Africa, it was established from the results of the study that the integration of homoeopathy into the public healthcare system would be complex in nature, due to the changes that would need to be made in both the public and private sectors. Albeit a model of integration was developed, based on the limitations identified in this study, further research needs to be conducted to investigate this phenomenon.