The efficacy of individualised homeopathic treatment on constipation

Abstract: Constipation is the term describing either infrequent bowel movements, difficult evacuation of stool, hard stool or a sensation of incomplete defecation (Longmore, 2012). It is the most common gastro-intestinal complaint for which patients seek therapeutic intervention, affecting 2.5-79% of the global population (Mugie et al., 2011). There exists a 50% dissatisfaction with the traditional approach of using laxatives (Johansen and Kralstein, 2007). The effects of constipation compound from impacting on the person’s physical health to effecting their moods and influencing their social life (Marks, 2012). Most conventional treatments strive to treat only local symptoms and do not address concomitant symptoms of constipation. Alternative treatment options such as homeopathy offer a more holistic approach and can be adopted; however, further research is needed to establish its effectiveness in treating constipation. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of individualised homeopathic treatment on chronic constipation in adults using case studies, an adapted bowel function diary and the Bristol stool form scale. This was a case study research design conducted over a six-week period at the University of Johannesburg Homeopathy Health Training Centre. Advertisements were placed around the University of Johannesburg Doornfontein campus and ten adults between the ages of 18 to 50 years who met the Rome II criteria for constipation were selected for participation. At the initial meeting a participant information form was discussed and a consent form was signed. Thereafter, a comprehensive case history was taken. This was then analysed according to the principles of classical homeopathic prescribing and the best suited homeopathic remedy was administered along with an explanation on how and when to take the medication. The participant was requested to monitor and document details related to each defecation event, which they recorded using an adapted bowel function diary and the Bristol stool form scale. There were a total of three follow-up sessions, scheduled two weeks apart. Data collection was in the form of case studies, which were analysed and described. The bowel function diary and Bristol stool form scale were used to assess changes in defecation quality and frequency over the course of the six-week treatment period. The results of these were then represented in the form of graphs. The results of the case studies were positive and holistic...M.Tech. (Homoeopathy