A look at Homeopathy and Holism and their purported treatment of Scoliosis
Holistic medicine (from the Greek holos, meaning all, whole, entire, total) is a form of alternative medicine that considers the whole person (body, mind, spirit, and emotions) in terms of health and wellness. Holistic medicine operates under the principle that optimal health is dependent upon proper balance in life.
Practitioners of holistic medicine believe that people are comprised of interdependent parts and if one part is not working properly, all the other parts will be affected. This will create imbalances (physical, emotional, or spiritual) and thus negatively affect overall health.
Homeopathy (from the Greek hómoios “like” + páthos “suffering”), was developed more than 200 years ago by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann. According to his doctrine similia similibus curentur (“like cures like”), a substance that causes the symptoms of a disease in a healthy person will cure similar symptoms in sick people. Source
Before we explore the USE of Homeopathy, lets set the record straight…
Modern peer-research published in respected scientific journals has found homeopathic remedies ineffective and their purported benefits implausible. The scientific community regards homeopathy as a sham; the American Medical Association considers homeopathy to be quackery, and homeopathic remedies have also been criticized as for being unethical.
From the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM):
Supporters of homeopathy point to two unconventional theories: “like cures like”—the notion that a disease can be cured by a substance that produces similar symptoms in healthy people; and “law of minimum dose”—the notion that the lower the dose of the medication, the greater its effectiveness. Many homeopathic remedies are so diluted that no molecules of the original substance remain.
Homeopathic remedies are derived from substances that come from plants, minerals, or animals, such as red onion, arnica (mountain herb), crushed whole bees, white arsenic, poison ivy, belladonna (deadly nightshade), and stinging nettle. Homeopathic remedies are often formulated as sugar pellets to be placed under the tongue; they may also be in other forms, such as ointments, gels, drops, creams, and tablets. Treatments are “individualized” or tailored to each person—it is not uncommon for different people with the same condition to receive different treatments.
The Status of Homeopathy Research
Most rigorous clinical trials and systematic analyses of the research on homeopathy have concluded that there is little evidence to support homeopathy as an effective treatment for any specific condition.
Homeopathy is a controversial topic in complementary medicine research. A number of the key concepts of homeopathy are not consistent with fundamental concepts of chemistry and physics. For example, it is not possible to explain in scientific terms how a remedy containing little or no active ingredient can have any effect. This, in turn, creates major challenges to rigorous clinical investigation of homeopathic remedies. For example, one cannot confirm that an extremely dilute remedy contains what is listed on the label, or develop objective measures that show effects of extremely dilute remedies in the human body.
Another research challenge is that homeopathic treatments are highly individualized, and there is no uniform prescribing standard for homeopaths. There are hundreds of different homeopathic remedies, which can be prescribed in a variety of different dilutions to treat thousands of symptoms.
Use in the United States
According to the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, which included a comprehensive survey of the use of complementary health practices by Americans, an estimated 3.9 million adults and 910,000 children used homeopathy in the previous year. These estimates include use of over-the-counter products labeled as “homeopathic,” as well as visits with a homeopathic practitioner. Out-of-pocket costs for adults were $2.9 billion for homeopathic medicines and $170 million for visits to homeopathic practitioners.
Side Effects and Risks
Certain homeopathic products (called “nosodes” or “homeopathic immunizations”) have been promoted by some as substitutes for conventional immunizations, but data to support such claims is lacking. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) supports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations for immunizations/vaccinations.
While many homeopathic remedies are highly diluted, some products sold or labeled as homeopathic may not be highly diluted; they can contain substantial amounts of active ingredients. Like any drug or dietary supplement that contains chemical ingredients, these homeopathic products may cause side effects or drug interactions. Negative health effects from homeopathic products of this type have been reported.
A systematic review found that highly diluted homeopathic remedies, taken under the supervision of trained professionals, are generally safe and unlikely to cause severe adverse reactions.
Liquid homeopathic remedies may contain alcohol. The FDA allows higher levels of alcohol in these remedies than it allows in conventional drugs.
Homeopaths expect some of their patients to experience “homeopathic aggravation” (a temporary worsening of existing symptoms after taking a homeopathic prescription). Researchers have not found much evidence of this reaction in clinical studies; however, research on homeopathic aggravations is scarce.
Regulation of Homeopathic Treatments
Homeopathic remedies are regulated as drugs under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA). Interestingly, under current Agency policy, FDA does not evaluate the remedies for safety or effectiveness. FDA enforcement policies for homeopathic drugs are described in FDA’s Compliance Policy Guide entitled Conditions Under Which Homeopathic Drugs May be Marketed (CPG 7132.15).
FDA allows homeopathic remedies that meet certain conditions to be marketed without agency pre-approval. For example, homeopathic remedies must contain active ingredients that are listed in the Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States (HPUS). The HPUS lists active ingredients that may be legally included in homeopathic products and standards for strength, quality, and purity of that ingredient. In addition, the FDA requires that the label on the product, outer container, or accompanying leaflet include at least one major indication (i.e., medical problem to be treated), a list of ingredients, the number of times the active ingredient was diluted, and directions for use. If a homeopathic remedy claims to treat a serious disease such as cancer, it must be sold by prescription. Only products for minor health problems, like a cold or headache, can be sold without a prescription.
Homeopathic Treatment of Scoliosis : Overview of the point of view of Homeopaths and their supporters who swear by these unusual remedies…
DISCLAIMER: There is no evidence that homeopathy will help scoliosis and claims are completely unsubstantiated!!!
From: hpathy.com – A pro-homeopathic website.
“The selection of remedy is based upon the theory of individualization and symptoms similarity by using holistic approach. This is the only way through which a state of complete health can be regained by removing all the sign and symptoms from which the patient is suffering. The aim of homeopathy is not only to treat scoliosis but to address its underlying cause and individual susceptibility. As far as therapeutic medication is concerned, several well-proved medicines are available for scoliosis treatment that can be selected on the basis of cause, sensation and modalities of the complaints. For individualized remedy selection and treatment, the patient should consult a qualified homeopathic doctor in person. Some important remedies are given below for scoliosis treatment:
Bryonia, Calcaria Carb, Calcaria Flour, Calcaria Sulph, Merc Cor, Silicea, Phosphoric Acid, Thuja, Carbo Veg, Calcaria Phos, Rhus Tox, Sepia, Nux vom, Sulphur, Arsenic, Pulsatilla, Belladonna, and many other medicines.”
“Even if you don’t have scoliosis now, there are early signs that you will see that will indicate the possibility of scoliosis in the future. These include
an inability to tolerate your mother’s milk, with vomiting of the milk
slow development as a child
recurring infections, often in the ear, nose and throat, but also colds and flu, abscesses and glands anywhere
constipation”
– This is an illustration of the irresponsibility of a self-defined homeopathic expert making statements that have no basis in reason. I consider it absurd to link vomiting of mother’s milk to a susceptibility to scoliosis and in 30 years have never seen this link.
Various So-Called “Scoliosis Remedies” from the world of Alternative or Holistic “Medicine”
Important Note: – In my opinion, herbal treatments only provide the possibility of pain relief and perhaps muscle relaxation but there is no evidence that they could correct the scoliosis.
Herbal Oils
Individual oils of thyme, oregano, cypress, birch, basil, peppermint and marjoram are used. A kit called “The Raindrop Technique,” available online, includes full instructions and oils for home application.
Function
It is reputed that repeated application once a month will produce some realignment of the spine.
Effects
Aromatherapy combined with massage application produces a surge of energy. Oils deliver a frequency of energy, building on each other. Source
Bach Flowers (primarily used for emotional imbalances)
From: scoliosis.homestead.com
Dr. Edward Bach
There are 38 flower remedies that were discovered by the late Dr. Edward Bach in the early 1930’s.
Bach Flowers are purported to be useful for not only the patient who has suddenly found out that he or she has scoliosis, it will also help family members deal with the shock and anxiety that often comes with hearing the news.
Rescue Remedy is the most well known bach flower. It is used for shock.
Bach flowers purportedly work on emotional states and tend to work over a period of time on a subtle level.
The 38 BACH FLOWERS
Bach Flower Drops
Mimulus – for known fears, eg: fear of heights, pain, darkness, poverty, death, being alone, of other people. Also fantastic for timidity and shyness.
Fear of Scoliosis and what it might mean for the future.
Gorse – for feelings of despair, hopelessness and futility.
A feeling that nothing is going to help, that there is no cure for Scoliosis.
Wild Rose – for those who are apathetic and have resigned themselves to their circumstances, making little effort to improve things or to find joy.
What’s the point, the doctors say there is nothing that’s going to help, so why should I bother trying anything. “Poor me” feeling.
White Chestnut – for persistent, unwanted thoughts, mental arguments, or preoccupation with some worry or episode.
Constant worrying for parents and patient.
Walnut – for stabilizing emotions during periods of transition, such as teething, puberty, adolescence, and menopause, for breaking past links and adjusting to new beginnings, such as new jobs, adjusting to new residence, cultures or even relationships.
Getting Scoliosis is life changing. Walnut is going to help with the transition of being a person not having to worry about scoliosis, to a person who now has to consider scoliosis in their future.
Larch – for those who, despite being capable, lack self-confidence. Anticipating failure, they often do not make a real effort to succeed.
Confidence can sometimes be lost, and needs to be gained again to take action for finding ways to address Scoliosis. Especially for children and teenagers, they may have issues of being “different”.
Pine – for those not satisfied with their own efforts, who are self-reproachful and suffer much from guilt and the faults they attach to themselves, feeling they should or could have done better. They are often quick to blame themselves for the mistakes of others.
Good for parents to take Often it is quite normal to have feelings of guilt.
Sweet Chestnut – for those who feel they have reached the limits of their endurance, for dark despair, when the anguish seems to be unbearable.
For serious depression and hopelessness.
Star of Bethlehem – for mental and emotional stress during and following such traumatic experiences as grief, loss and accidents.
Good for parents who have to now research and take on the responsibility for their child’s health and the stress that comes with that.
Willow – for those who have suffered from some misfortune or circumstance they feel was unjust or unfair. As a result, they become resentful and bitter toward others.
It can be easy to be feeling a bit sorry for yourself when life deals you a challenge like Scoliosis.
Rescue Remedy – A combination of Cherry Plum, Clematis, Impatiens, Rock Rose, Star of Bethlehem. All purpose emergency composite for effects of anguish, examinations, going to the dentist etc.. Comforting, calming and reassuring to those distressed by startling experiences.
Excellent for family and patient to have after the shock of hearing a diagnosis.
Rock Rose – for extreme terror, panic, hysteria, fright and nightmares
Cherry Plum – for fear of losing mental and physical control: inclination to uncontrollable rages and impulses, with fear of causing harm to oneself or others, for example suicidal tendencies, or losing one’s temper.
Aspen – for vague fears and anxieties of unknown origin, a sense of foreboding, apprehension, or impending disaster.
Red Chestnut – for excessive fear or over concern for others – especially loved ones, for example, over concern during their illness, automobile trips, etc.. always anticipating that something unfortunate may happen to them.
Cerato – for those who doubt their own ability to judge and make decisions. They are constantly seeking others advice and are often misguided.
Scleranthus – for those who are indecisive, being unable to decide between two choices, first one seeming right then the other. They may also be subject to energy or mood swings.
Gentian – for those easily discouraged, in whom even small delays may cause hesitation, despondency and self-doubt.
Hornbeam – for that Monday-morning feeling of not being able to face the day; for tiredness and a tendency towards procrastination, for those who feel that some part of their bodies or minds need strengthening.
Wild Oat – for those dissatisfied in their current career or life style, their difficulty however, is in determining exactly what career to follow.
Clematis – for those who tend toward escapism living more in the future than in the present, for lack of concentration, daydreaming, lack of interest in present circumstances, and spaciness.
Honeysuckle – for those dwelling too much in the past, reminiscing about the good old days, nostalgia and homesickness.
Olive – for total mental and physical exhaustion and weariness, for sapped vitality from a long illness or personal ordeal.
Mustard – for deep gloom that comes on for no apparent reason, bringing sudden melancholy and heavy sadness.
Chestnut bud – for those who fail to learn from experience, continually repeating the same patterns and mistakes.
Water Violet – for those whose preference is to be alone, seeming aloof, proud, reserved, self-reliant, sometimes superior in attitude. Capable and reliable they will advise, but not get personally involved in others affairs.
Impatiens – for those quick in thought and action but often impatient, especially with those who are slower than they, for those who show irritability through lack of patience.
Heather – for those talkative persons who constantly seek the companionship of anyone who will listen to their troubles. They are self – absorbed, generally poor listeners, and have difficulty being alone for any length of time.
Agrimony – for those not wishing to burden others with their troubles, covering up their suffering with a cheerful facade, they often seek escape from pain and worry through the use of drugs or alcohol.
Centaury – for those who have difficulty in saying no, often becoming subservient in their desire to serve others, anxious to please they can be easily exploited, neglecting their own interests.
Holly – for negative feelings such as envy, jealousy, suspicion, revenge and hatred, showing a need for more love.
Elm – for those who overextend themselves and become overwhelmed and burdened by their responsibilities.
Oak – for those who despite illness and adversity never give up. They are brave and determined to overcome all obstacles in order to reach their intended goal.
Crab Apple – for feelings of shame, uncleanliness, or fear of contamination, for poor self-image, particularly as it relates to parts of or growths on the body. Will assist in detoxification and the cleansing of wounds, both internal and external.
Chicory – for those who are overfull of care and possessive of those close to them, they can be demanding and self-pitying, with a need for others to conform to their ideals.
Vervain – for those who have strong opinions, always teaching and philosophizing. They are easily incensed by injustices, and when taken to the extreme can be over enthusiastic, argumentative and overbearing.
Vine – for those who are strong-willed leaders in their own right. However, when carried to extremes, they can become autocratic, dictatorial, ruthless, and dominating.
Beech – for those who, while desiring perfection, easily find fault with people and things. Critical and intolerant at times, they may fail to see the good within others, overreacting to small annoyances or others people’s idiosyncrasies.”
Rock Water – for those who are strict and rigid with themselves, struggling toward some ideal or to set an example for others. This would include strict adherence to a lifestyle or to religious, personal or social disciplines.
