Acacia or Vachellia xanthophloea proving = fever tree
http://ir.dut.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10321/1769/GOBIND_2016.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y
Vergleich: Siehe: Fabales
[Anitha Gobind]
A homoeopathic drug proving of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH with subsequent
comparison to its use in African medical tradition
Proving of conducted in the form of a double blinded placebo controlled
study. The investigation consisted of a total of 30 provers divided equally
between two researchers (
(A. Gobind and G. Zondi). The sample was randomly divided into two
groups in which provers(80%) were assigned into the verum group and the
remaining six provers (20%) were allocated to the placebo group.
[Wikipedia]
Acacia xanthophloea is found growing near swamps, riverine forests or on
lake shores, in semi-evergreen bush land and woodland where there is a high
groundwater table.
In seasonally flooded areas it often forms dense single species stands.
The leaves and pods are used to provide food for livestock while the
young branches and foliage are eaten by African elephants while giraffe and
velvet monkeys eat the pods and leaves. The flowers are used for foraging by
bees and provides favoured nesting sites for birds. Like other acacias and
Fabaceae it is a nitrogen fixer, so improves soil fertility. The gum is part of
the diet of the Senegal bushbaby (Gallinago senegalensis) especially in the dry
season.
Butterflies recorded as feeding on Vachellia xanthophloea in Kenya
included the Kikuyu ciliate blue (Anthene kikuyu), Pitman's hairtail (Anthene
pitmani), common ciliate blue (Anthene definita), African babul blue (Azanus
jesous), Victoria's bar (Spindasis victoriae) and common zebra blue (Leptotes
pirithous). In addition 30 species of larger moths have been recorded as
feeding on this tree.
All provers were requested to record their daily symptoms on the
physical, mental and emotional planes in their journals for one week prior to
administration of the proving substance. This formed as a mode of control for
the comparison of symptomatology for the pre-proving and post proving period. A
thorough case history was taken and physical examination performed on each
prover before the commencement of the proving and after the duration of the
proving period.
Each prover received a total of nine powders. Starting on day 8 of the
study the provers consumed one powder 3x daily for 3 days and documented their
daily symptoms
in a journal. The duration of the proving term was six weeks in total.
During this interval the researcher maintained consistent contact with the
provers.
Upon completion of the proving period all journals were collected and
the information contained within these journals was translated into the materia
medica and repertory format. This facilitated the establishment of the remedy
portrait of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH.
A subsequent comparison between the symptomatology that materialised in
the provers and the African traditional medicinal uses was duly conducted.
Results:
An extensive range of symptoms was reported by the provers. The
outstanding themes that emanated from this proving on the mental plane include
anger, anxiety, aversion
to company, cheerful, depression, irritability, mood swings,
restlessness, tranquillity and stress.
A broad range of headaches were described with some headaches being
associated with the eye. Many eye symptoms displayed by the provers incl.
itching, redness, burning sensation and pain.
The stomach symptoms revealed marked increased thirst, changeable
appetite, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea with watery stools.
The female genitalia / sex indicated several symptoms ranging from
painful menstruation, bleeding and copious blood flow.
The greatest number of symptoms in a system was associated with
extremities, producing the greatest number of rubrics in the repertory section.
Dream themes depicted by
the provers were especially visionary, about family and friends in
addition to other themes.
The correlation process between the homoeopathic drug proving of Acacia
xanthophloea 30CH and the African traditional medicinal use of the substance
brought several resemblances to light. There were clear similarities with the
eye symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms and headaches.
Conclusion
As hypothesised Acacia xanthophloea 30CH did produce distinctly
observable signs and symptoms when administered to healthy provers. The
symptoms that emerged during the proving provide evidence that an overlay
exists between the remedy Acacia xanthphloea 30CH and the traditional use of
the crude substance Acacia xanthophloea.
The researcher proposes that further research should be conducted to
determine the symptomatology of various homoeopathic potencies so that a complete
image of the remedy Acacia xanthophloea 30CH can be established and the
clinical applications can be broadened.
Acacia xanthophloea was named tree of the year in 2010. The title of
“tree of the year” shows the national position of the tree in terms of its
importance as an indigenous plant and the need to raise awareness of indigenous
flora (Acacia xanthophloea Benth, 2012). In contemporary homeopathic research
there is a trend towards investigating indigenous substances to allow for
expansion of the therapeutic armamentarium of homoeopathy. The realm of
indigenous African homoeopathic remedies is largely unresearched, a concern
being addressed at DUT. Homoeopathic research on Acacia xanthophloea has not
previously been conducted.
Traditionally the bark of Acacia xanthophloea is used to treat fever and
eye complaints (African Mind Healing Herb, 2012).
Further, it is believed that this substance helps one to communicate
with the ancestral spirits thereby gaining insight and answers (Solomon, 2012).
Sherr (2003:10) states that
a definitive standard and method are to be adhered to for provings to be
valid. If provings were not accurate in the first place then all prescription
indications would be imprecise obscure guesses.
A valuable and thorough proving is attributable to the quality of the
proving and not the substance selected in the proving (Sherr2003:7). Therefore
provings form an essential component of homoeopathy.
1.2
THE AIMS OF THE STUDY
The aim of this study was to conduct a randomised double blinded placebo
controlled proving to determine the proving symptomatology of Acacia
xanthophloea 30CH
by recording the signs and symptoms produced by healthy provers after
the administration of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH and the subsequent comparison to
the African traditional medicinal use.
1.3
THE OBJECTIVES
1.3.1
1st objective of this research was to determine and analyse
any symptomatology that may occur in healthy provers when Acacia xanthophloea
30CH was administered.
1.3.2
2nd objective of this research study was to determine and
develop the materia medica of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH by recording the signs
and symptoms produced by healthy provers after the administration of Acacia
xanthophloea 30CH.
1.3.3
3rd objective of this research study was to conduct a
comparative analysis of the proving symptoms of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH to the
traditional African medicinal uses.
1.4
THE HYPOTHESES
1.4.1
1st hypothesis was that Acacia xanthophloea 30CH would
produce clearly observable signs and symptoms in healthy provers.
1.4.2
2nd hypothesis was that the proving of Acacia xanthophloea
30CH would expand the understanding and clinical scope of the medical value of
the remedy by correlating symptoms produced with the African traditional medicinal
uses of Acacia xanthophloea.
1.6
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE STUDY
Acacia xanthophloea is a widely used medicine in African traditional
medicine. The homoeopathic proving of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH adds to the
homoeopathic materia medica as well as increases knowledge in general regarding
the therapeutic benefits of Acacia xanthophloea evident at sites where the
trees are debilitated. Samples of the bark and leaf of Acacia xanthophloea
collected from Baharini Springs revealed high levels of copper.
Njoro river sewage area also showed high levels of copper in plant
samples. The lead levels were higher in the tissues of Acacia xanthophloea
obtained from Baharini Springs.
This investigation proposes that heavy metals like copper are most
likely an aetiological factor affecting Acacia xanthophloea woodland in
particular the young trees located
in Njoro river approaching the Baharini Springs area. It is necessary to
investigate the levels of heavy metals and pollutants so that additional
comprehension of the adverse resultant on the growth of Acacia xanthophloea
trees and suggest a suitable management strategy (Dharani et al., 2007).
The leaves and bark from diseased Acacia xanthophloea trees reveal very
high levels of zinc in the tissues. This high zinc value can be as a result of
anthropogenic activities inputs to Lake Nakuru by means of industrial wastes
which are discharged into the town’s outflow, Njoro river waste and storm water
drainage during excessive rainfall.
The industrial effluents result from battery industry, paint
manufacturing industry, galvanised metals and products containing zinc that are
important sources of zinc to Lake Nakuru. Different sites researched in Lake
Nakuru exposed greater concentration levels of heavy metals (Cd, Co, Pb, Ni, Zn
in the water which is suggestive of anthropogenic inclusion.
Therefore a demand for ongoing inspection and oversee of noxious heavy
metal toxins and persisting organic pollution in the study so that the input of
knowledge can be collected. This knowledge is crucial in frame working
effective management techniques for Lake Nakuru National Park as it serves as a
natural habitat for flamingos and welcomes tourism action (Dharani etal.,
2010).
2.13.8 Health benefits of Acacia xanthophloea
The properties and health benefits of this botanical plant were
identified in scientific research so that the medicinal properties can be
determined.
Made up of three active compounds. These are catechin, catechol and
catecholamine which have been scientifically investigated to determine their
medicinal value and use (Seigler, 2002).
2.13.8.1
Catechin: has antioxidant and anticarcinogenic properties. An
antioxidant provides protection to cells against free radicals which can damage
cells, stimulate heart disease, produce tumours or can result in other
diseases. Free radicals are formed when the body disintegrates food or could
occur as a result of toxic environmental hazards
(African Mind Healing Herb, 2012).
2.13.8.2
Catechol: Small amounts occur naturally in fruits and vegetables with
enzymes polyphenol oxidase or catecholase or catechol oxidase. When the enzymes
are mixed with a substrate and exposed to oxygen the colourless catechol is
oxidised to reddish brown melanoid pigment which is a derivative of benzoquinone
that has antimicrobial properties slowing the spoilage of damaged fruits and
plant parts. This compound has been identified in the brain and endocrine
tissues. The hypothalamus and pituitary contain high concentration of catechol
estrogens. Catechol found in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis plays a
significant role in neuroendocrine regulation.
Catechol is a keymodulator of dopamine, adrenalin and noradrenalin
neurotransmission. There is evidence that catechol plays a role in several
central nervous system disorder, neuropathic pain perception regulation and
anti-inflammatory reactions (African Mind Healing Herb, 2012).
2.13.8.3
Catecholamine: hormones and neurotransmitters that are phenethylamines
and phenyl groups which have a catechol skeletal structure. Catecholamine
molecules include dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline which is released in
response to stress.
Dopamine, epinephrine and noradrenaline are catecholamines in the human
body which constitute brain chemistry (African Mind Healing Herb, 2012).
2.13.8.4
Disorders of brain chemistry Acacia xanthophloea, can be a natural
alternative for individuals who suffer from anxiety, depression, autistic
disorder, A DHD, ADD, panic disorder or for those individuals who work on shift
which leads to imbalances in the brain chemistry caused by irregular patterns
of sleep.
Acacia xanthophloea can help in the recovery from chronic fatigue
syndrome and drug addiction (African Mind Healing Herb, 2012).
Research was carried out with the main aim of appraising the anti-asthmatic
action of a decoction of Acacia xanthophloea, Strychnos henningsii and
Microglossia pyrifolia
in asthma induced mice. The outcome revealed that the extracts were
capable of diminishing the serum total IgE levels by up to 100% in relation to
the positive control (Odongo et al., 2015).
2.13.9
African traditional medicine uses of Acacia xanthophloea
Used as one of the ubulawu plants in the Zulu tradition. This causes
visionary and prophetic dreams which allow one to connect and communicate
information from the ancestral and spiritual world. The Zulu’s believe that if
one focuses on a question before going to sleep, then one will receive the
answer in a dream. The bark is added to
a mixture of different dream herbs. It may take a couple of days before
the results can be visible.
The herbs can also be consumed as a tea.
The use of Acacia xanthophloea in the African traditional medicine are
multiple. The fiber increases the levels of HDL cholesterol in the body,
assists in the treatment of
type 2 diabetes mellitus and promotes raised energy levels in the body
(Balick and Cox, 1996). The intensity of a headache is mitigated by applying a
paste of ground
Acacia xanthophloea leaves on the forehead.
Acacia xanthophloea detoxifies the body and assists in weight loss (Van
Wyk, Oudtshoorn and Gericke, 1997). The bark is used in the treatment of fever
and eye ailments.
In Tanzania the bark used to treat sickle cell anaemia and in Kenya a
concoction of the bark is used to treat indigestion. (Van Wyk, Oudtshoorn and
Gericke 1997).
In South Africa the powdered bark is used as an emetic to treat malaria
by the Zulu people (African Mind Healing Herb, 2012).
In India, medicinal plants were used for centuries to treat various
ailments.
Acacia xanthophloea used in traditional medicine revealing a scientific
basis since the chemical compounds within the various species have medicinal
effects.
In Ayurvedic medicine Acacia xanthophloea is believed to aid in the
treatment of premature ejaculation.
2.13.9.1
Gastro-intestinal
The water soluble fibre of Acacia xanthophloea provides roughage and
enhances the smooth bowel movement of the intestines promoting cleansing of the
body. It effectively relieves irritable bowel syndrome.The soluble fibre
absorbs excess water from the colon forming a thick gel that passes through the
gut without decomposition.
Acacia xanthophloea adds bulk to the stools and aids in easy elimination
thus relieving constipation and promoting a healthier digestive system. It
relieves bloating
and trapped gas in the digestive system by regulating the speed of bowel
movements. Acacia promotes the development of bifidobacteria and lactic acid
bacteria.
The bark and leaves of Acacia xanthophloea used to treat diarrhoea and
dysentery.
The gum also effective in treating dysentery, diarrhoea and many other
intestinal conditions. An extract of the gum or a tea can be made to provide
gastro-intestinal relief.
The flowers of Acacia xanthophloea can be made into a tea to treat
hangover, nausea and vomiting (Acacia Information and Facts, 2014).
2.13.9.2
Pregnancy
During pregnancy women need to increase their nutritional and mineral
supplementation. Acacia xanthophloea interferes with supplements containing
iron and some drugs and may provoke an allergic reaction. This can have
negative effects on the health of a pregnant woman. Acacia xanthophloea is best
avoided during pregnancy (Acacia Information and Facts, 2014).
2.13.9.3
Periodontal
The gum of Acacia xanthophloea can be used to destroy the bacteria found
in the mouth that is responsible for periodontal disease. The gum from the
plant is diffused in water and then swished in the mouth to treat gum disease. The
gum serves as a source of food and is taken for oral thrush (Acacia Gum, 2009).
2.13.9.4
Wounds
Acacia xanthophloea gum characterised as an emollient and it soothes the
mucus membranes. The gum is applied to damaged skin to treat small wounds and
scrapes (Acacia Gum, 2009).
2.13.9.5
Ear, nose and throat
Acacia xanthophloea gum is useful in the treatment of cold symptoms and
provides relief from a sore throat related to the cold. The individual may
gargle to relieve the sore throat or they can have a tea manufactured from the
herb.
The African traditional medical use of the leaves, bark and gum include
colds, conjunctivitis and haemorrhage (DeVries, 2015).
2.13.9.6
Non-medicinal uses
It is used by home owners and landscape architects for home protection. The
sharp thorns stop unwanted persons from entering private properties. This may
prevent break-in
if planted under windows near gutter pipes. Groves of this tree can be
planted next to dams and streams on farms to curb soil erosion.
Early Egyptians made use of Acacia xanthophloea in paints and it was
used as a fragrance for centuries. Acacia xanthophloea are used as a mark in
Freemansory to stand for pureness and stamina of the soul and as a funerary
emblem representing rebirth and eternal life. It is believed in the Christian
culture that the crown of thorns that Christ wore was made from Acacia
xanthophloea thorns.
Acacia xanthophloea serves as a source of income for people located in
rural areas. These individuals are hugely dependent on this plant for their
building materials, fodder and day-to-day fuel.
The bark, root and resin of Acacia xanthophloea are produced to make
incense for rituals (India, Nepal, China and Tibet).
The smoke from the bark was believed to restrain demons and ghosts and
to put god in a happy mood.
An alcohol beverage made from the fruit of Acacia xanthophloea is liked
by people and elephants.
The gum is used in foods as a suspending or emulsifying agent, a
stabiliser, an adhesive, a flavour fixative and to inhibit crystallization of
sugar.
The shoots of Acacia xanthophloea described as feathery and can be used
in curries, soups, stir fries and omelettes. The seeds can be used to make
fritters or various other products.
2.14
CONCLUSION
Homoeopathic proving so find igneous substances withint theDepartment of
Homoeopathy at the Durban University of Technology are crucial for the
expansion of the therapeutic armamentarium of the South African homoeopathic
materia medica.
Plants play a vital role in African indigenous systems of medicine.
Acquiring knowledge of medical plants used in African culture is essential.
Homoeopathic provings on these indigenous plants can provide a
structured, standardised process of prescribing them.This will assist in the
treatment of common health issues experienced in South Africa.
The proving substance Acacia xanthophloea 30CH was prepared by hand by
the researchers as specified in the German Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia (GHP)
3.9
COMPARISON OF THE PROVING SYMPTOMATOLOGY OF ACACIAXANTHOPHLOEA WITH THE AFRICAN
TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL USAGE OF THE PLANT
The traditional medical use of Acacia xanthophloea was discussed in
correlation to the symptoms produced by provers in the proving. This
facilitates accuracy when prescribing the remedy and assists in studying the
remedy.
A comprehensive study of literature found in books, journal articles and
various case studies was undertaken to review the African traditional medicinal
usage of Acacia xanthophloea. The totality of symptoms derived from the proving
of Acacia Xanthophloea 30CH was compared to the indigenous African traditional
medicinal usage of the plant. This emphasises the similarities and the
differences between the two methods.
4.4.1
Mind: [80 RUBRICS]
Desires activity at work
Ailments from mental exertion
Mind - Ailments from being neglected by one’s father
Ambition increased
Anger (in morning/on
waking/causeless/in child)
Anxiety (when a time is set)
Antisocial
Cares about money
Cheerful (in company)
Aversion to company
Concentration difficult - cannot
fix attention/on attempting to concentrate/working/studying
Content with himself
Delusions - body looks ugly
Delusions - time seems earlier
Delusions - exaggeration of time
Delusions of time, and space,
lost or confused
Delusions - working against time
Disgust of own body
Estranged
Escape from society
Fear - of being alone/of
impending danger/of failure/something will happen/of separation of children/of
the unknown
Forgetful
Forsaken feeling - “As if
isolated”
Hopeful
Industrious - desires to finish
his work
Irresolution
Irritability [morning (on
waking)/evening/toward child/from noise/with people/with sleeplessness]
Laziness (morning/on
waking/aversion to work)
Mental exertion
>/</desires/fatigues
Mood alternating/changeable
Rage
Religious affections
Restless (at night/starting from
sleep/from sleeplessness/during weakness)
Sadness - aversion to company;
desire for solitude/desire for company/gloomy
Sensitive - during chill/to
reprimands
Slowness - in motion/in work
Studying difficult
< Talking
Time appears shorter, passes too
quickly
Time - appears longer, passes too
slowly
Tension, mental
Tranquility
Weeping > when alone
Weeping at sad thoughts
Vertigo: [5 RUBRICS]
At noon/in evening
Accompanied + pain in head
“As if head is turning round”
Head: [86 RUBRICS ]
Heaviness in morning
“As if light”
Pain - morning (dull/at night)/noon
Pain - evening >/20 h. (sore)
Pain - evening - bursting pain
Pain + pain in eye
Pain - temples [l./r. (stitching)/daytime/morning/ext.
head/lightning/< thinking of pain]
Pain + nausea
Pain in afternoon (dull)
Pain - bursting/hammering
Pain - >/< closing the eyes
Pain - < company
Pain - > drinking cold water/lying
Pain - dull pain
Pain - >/< (after) eating
Pain - < fasting/< noise
Pain - eating impossible
Pain > exertion/> sleep
Falls - head would fall forward
Pain - < fasting/> (green) tea
Pain in forehead (cutting/dull/< noise/< motion- pulsating/>
after sleep)
Pain - < bending head forward
Pain - after intense headache
Pain - in occiput (morning on waking/> after eating/ext. neck/down
back of neck/ext. shoulders/> lying with head low/pressing (“As from a
cap”)/pulsating)
Pain - > rest/> rubbing
Pain - short lasting
Pain - sides [morning (on waking)/l. (pulsating)/r./bursting/ext.
temples
Pain - from exposure to sun (sore)
Pain - vertex [morning (on waking)/afternoon/dull pain/pulsating/from
light/> lying/> rubbing/< motion (walking)/< noise)]
Pain - violent
Pain - change of weather
4.4.4
Eye: [36 RUBRICS]
Desire to close the eye
Closing the eye (>)
Complaints of eyes (l./r.)
Discharges (watery)
Discoloration - red (l./morning/during headache/inflamed)
Dryness/”As if dry”
Heaviness (in eyebrows - closing the eye/in lids (> closing eyes)
Inflammation - > cold washing
Itching [morning after rising/with lachrymation from (>/<)
rubbing]
Open lid during sleep
Pain [l./< morning after rising/burning/in eyeballs/< exertion of
the eye/”As from exertion of the eye”/”As from foreign body”/> rest]
Pain - sore/stitching
Sleepy feeling of eyes
Swollen r.
Ear: [12 RUBRICS]
“As if foreign body in ear”
Itching - l./r./ in eustachian tubes
Pain - l. (aching/lancinating)/r. drawing pain
Pain - stitching/< walking
“As if stopped”
Nose:[20 RUBRICS]
Congestion (at night during sleep/in sinuses)
Discharge - morning/bloody when blowing/burning/dripping/watery
Dryness - inside
Inflammation - l.
Obstruction (morning/evening/”As if obstructes”)
Pain in l. nostril anterior/sore/raw
Pain in nostrils corrosive
Sneezing at night
4.4.7
Face: [3 RUBRICS]
Eruptions - (white) pimples
Numbness
4.4.8
Mouth: [31 RUBRICS]
Abscess - in gums - painful/on tongue
Bleeding when cleaning the mouth
Discoloration - of gums (bright) red on margins
Discoloration red in spots
Discoloration of gums white
Dryness - > drinks/with thirst/of tongue (center)
Eruption - pimples on inner side lips
Eruption - vesicles on lips
Inflammation (gums)
Itching lip
“As if sand on lips”
Pain burning < eating
Pain sore in gums - < eating< touch
Pain in gums (sore/burning warm weather) < touch/< salt
Pain - lips
Pain in edges of tongue “As if cut”
Sensitive - food and drinks unbearable
Swelling - of lips/gums painful
Taste - diminished
“As if thick” (tongue)
4.4.9
Teeth: [5 RUBRICS]
Pain [< drinking/in incisor/sensitive; tender (incisors/canine)
4.4.10
Throat: [17 RUBRICS]
Dryness [morning/night/+ thirst/itching/painful/> raw egg/with thirst
(for cold water)
Itching
Pain (aching/< cold air/sore/during coryza/”As if raw”/sore)
Scratching - morning
4.4.11
Neck: [15 RUBRICS]
Back: Pain - r./morning/cervical region (> warm
applications/sore/on rising from bed/< turning head to l.)/l./cutting/ext.
downward/< rising head
Stiffness of cervical region (< during sleep)
4.4.12
Stomach. [57 RUBRICS]
Anxiety
Appetite - changeable
Complaints of the
Appetite - constant/increased (in daytime/morning/at night/+ cannot
eat/+ accompanied by fullness)/
Appetite - diminished
Appetite - ravenous (soon) after eating - increases the hunger
Distension (< after drinking)
< Eating
Eructation - > after drinking/< during stool
“As if full”
Heaviness < after drinking water
Heartburn at night
Indigestion < after eating
Nausea (afternoon/< after eating/after tea)
Pain - afternoon (14 h./15 h./16 h./night)/cutting/> cold
drinks)/cramping/< diarrhea/< after eating/during hunger/< before
menses
Pain periodical/pressure/sore/stitching/tearing/rumbling
Sensation of distension
Thirst (daytime/+ thirst/+ < after eating/extreme)
Extremities: Pain in forearms [r.
(drawing/sore/stitching/< walking/< warm applications/> rubbing)/at
night/< motion
Pain - evening/night/[heat in legs (at night)/in knees viele
Pain - neuralgic - shooting pain
Pain - legs (in tendo Achilles)
Perspiration - foot offensive
Swelling in forearms
Sleep: [52 RUBRICS]
Deep (afternoon/at night)
Disturbed (from anxiety/easily/by heat/by thoughts)
Dozing (in daytime)
Falling asleep (evening/difficult/easy)
Interrupted - Laziness waking too late/li much tossing around/great need
Changes position frequently
Position - reversed/on left side impossible
Prolonged - restless
Restless - morning/at night (before/after midnight)/during heat/tossing
about in bed
Rise - aversion to - waking/desires to remain in bed
Semiconscious - short refreshing
Sleepiness (daytime/afternoon/early evening/overpowering/restless/during
work/with sleeplessness (during heat/from irritability)
Sleeplessness [morning/at night (after midnight)/overpowering/from
restlessness/tossing about/ not from tossing about]
Waking difficult in morning
Waking - frequently/too late
4.4.22
Dreams: [31 RUBRICS]
Anger
Anxious in children
Cooking
Comical
Confused - dead mother appearing
Dead - relatives/of friend/is dying/distant
things/people/entertainment/own family/father/fights/one is fighting/meeting
friends/old friends/frightful/funeral/giants/happy
Lightning/men/partner/body covered with
rash/religious/robbers/tsunami/unremembered/vivid (at night)
4.4.23
Fever: [10 RUBRICS]
Body - anterior/upper part
Burning
Chilliness long into the heat, continuous
Heat in flushes
Shivering
Shivering with (< uncovering)
4.4.24
Perspiration: [7 RUBRICS]
Perspiration - clammy/offensive/sour(profuse (at night)
Perspiration < during
Sticky
4.4.25
Skin: [12 RUBRICS]
Dry (“As if dry”)
Eruptions - dry/itching/pimples/rash/scaly
Moisture
Pain - sore
Sealy
Eruption - scaly
Shining
Soft
Generals: [92 RUBRICS]
l.
Bathing >
Clothes too large
Cold <
Energy excess
Energy (weakness/excess)
Food and Drinks:
Desires: bananas/chicken (tandoori)/chocolate (before menses)/coca
cola/delicacies/fish/herbs/ice cream/milkshake/mutton/potato chips/red
pepper/rich food/roti/spices/sour food, acids/sweets/warm food/hot food;
>: tea/warm drinks;
Aversion: tomatoes
Heat - < during/with perspiration
Influenza + chill
Irritability
Lassitude (with restlessness)
Myalgia (Pain in muscles)
Pain - aching/”As if beaten”/cutting (“As if with a knife”)
Pain - l. (morning)/sore (by exertion, as after great) in joints/in
muscles - cramping/< standing
Relaxation of muscles
Rest >
Restlessness at night
Rubbing > (after)
> artificial heat/warm in bed
Weakness [morning (on waking)/afternoon/at night/going to bed/>
breakfast/excess/excessive (pain)/< exertion/from heat/irritability/in
joints + muscular fatigue/< before menses/< mental exertion
muscular fatigue/from overwork/from pain/> rest/with restlessness/<
sleepiness
Weight loss (in men/in women)
4.4 :
The distribution of rubrics aable
5.2: Grouping of the symptom polarities
GROUP 1
Anger
Antisocial / Aversion to company
Anxiety / Anticipation
Depression
Disconnected / Detached / Unfeeling
Fears
Finances
Forsaken feeling
Forgetful
Indecisive
Irritability
Lazy
Mood swings
Occupation
Restlessness
Time
Stress
GROUP 2
Cheerful / Happy
Concentration
Family / Fun / Entertainment
Hope
Refreshed
Religion / Prayer / Peace
Tranquillity / Relaxation
5.4
COMPARISON OF ACACIAXANTHOPHLOEA 30CH TO AFRICAN TRADITIONAL
MEDICINALUSAGE OF ACACIA XANTHOPHLOEA
Acacia xanthophloea has been used extensively in the African tradition
by the Zulu people as one of the “ubulawu”plants that produce visionary and
prophetic .
This allows one to connect and communicate information from both the
ancestral and spiritual world. The Zulu culture believes that if you focus on a
specific question
prior to ing then you can attain
the answer in your dream. The bark is mixed with a variety of dream herbs. A
visible result of the dream herbs may take a few
days to occur (Azarius Online Smartshop, 2012).
AFRICAN TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL USES SYMPTOMS PRODUCED IN THE PROVING OF
ACACIA XANTHOPHLOEA 30CH
EYE AILMENTS EYE
AILMENTS
VISIONARY AND PROPHETIC VISIONARY
AND PROPHETIC
INDIGESTION INDIGESTION
SORES
SORES
BLOATING BLOATING
ERUCTATIONS ERUCTATIONS
CONSTIPATION CONSTIPATION
DIARRHOEA DIARRHOEA
WOUND TREATMENT WOUND TREATMENT
SORE SORE
NAUSEA NAUSEA
VOMITING VOMITING
ANXIETY ANXIETY
DEPRESSION DEPRESSION
STRESS STRESS
COLDS COLDS
CONJUNCTIVITIS CONJUNCTIVITIS
PERIDONTAL TREATMENT PERIDONTAL
TREATMENT
PHARYNGITIS PHARYNGITIS
DIABETES DIABETES
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
RASHES
RASHES
RESPIRATORY DISORDERS RESPIRATORY
DISORDERS
URINARY DISORDERS URINARY DISORDERS
DIGESTIVE DISORDERS DIGESTIVE DISORDERS
WEIGHT LOSS WEIGHT
LOSS
HEADACHES HEADACHES
ACNE ACNE
INCREASED ENERGY LEVELS INCREASED
ENERGY LEVELS
DETOXIFICATION DETOXIFICATION
5.5
MIASMATIC INDICATION OF ACACIA XANTHOPHLOEA 30CH
The researcher proposes that Acacia xanthophloea 30CH has a predominance
of symptoms correlating to the features of the Psoric miasm. There are also
some symptoms
that may be corresponding to the Sycotic miasm.
5.5.1
The Psoric Miasm
According to Sankaran (1997:219) The Psoric miasm has two central
concepts; perceiving stress from the outside and anxiety with self-doubt in
terms of capacity to deal
with stress. As a result there is worry and fears of poverty and
failure. Choudhury(1997:9-30) states that the Psoric miasm has the following
indications; hypersensitivity, restlessness, timidity, inflammation of mucous
membranes, affections with pruritis, neuralgic pains, nervousness and anxiety,
burning sensations, weakness with emaciation. The complaints of Psora are
essentially functional and sensational in character (Sankaran, 2005:9).
The proving symptoms of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH appeared to display the
above mentioned Psoric features and particularly the following symptoms:
Anxiety and lack of self confidence, with self doubt about the future.
Fear of poverty.
Fear of failure
Hypersensitivity to light, noise and company.
Hypersensitive and allergic type symptoms of inflammation + itching
especially of the nasal passages and the conjunctiva.
Restlessness.
Eruptions such as dermatitis, fungal type eruptions and pimples.
Itching or pruritis + eruptions.
The burning sensation predominated the areas of inflammation like the
eye and other mucous membranes.
The generalised symptoms of inflammation of redness, swelling, heat and
pain was present with the inflammation of the mucous membranes.
The lack in energy, drained feeling and generalised lazy feeling.
Decrease in body mass.
Various pains and symptoms, that were functional in nature, described as
sensations such as poking, burning, hitting, pulling, bloated feeling and
heartburn.
5.5.2
The Sycotic Miasm
The main expression of the Sycotic miasm is excessive discharges and the
affection of the genitourinary system (Choudhury 1997:66) as is seen in the
female symptoms of
Acacia xanthophloea 30CH, of protracted menorrhagia with clotting.
5.6
CLINICAL INDICATIONS FOR ACACIA XANTHOPHLOEA 30CH
In the proving of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH a broad range of symptoms were
revealed. These were the indications for clinical conditions that may be
treated by
prescribing the proving remedy, Acacia xanthophloea 30CH. It is
therefore vital that further research studies are conducted to determine the
efficacy and effectiveness of
Acacia xanthophloea 30CH in the treatment of these clinical conditions.
The clinical application of these conditions includes the following:
Acne / Pimples
Allergic dermatitis
Abcesses
Fungal eruptions
Arthritis and arthralgia
Fibromyalgia
Neck pain
Backache
Concentration abnormalities
Anxiety
Depression
Diabetes mellitus
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Abdominal cramps
Heart burn
Nausea and vomiting
Apthous ulcers
Irritable bowel syndrome
Eye complaints such as allergic conjunctivitis
Headache
Influenza
Malaise / Tiredness
Sinusitis
disorders / insomnia
Stress related disorders
Cystitis
Vertigo
5.7
SUMMARY
The correlation between the African traditional medicinal usages of
Acacia xanthophloea to the symptoms produced by the provers during the duration
of the proving was distinctly evident. However, it is acknowledged that the
correlation between the proving substance and the African traditional medicinal
usages of Acacia xanthophloea are subjective. The interpretation can be
performed in a different method or procedure from one person to another.
5.5
MIASMATIC INDICATION OF ACACIA XANTHOPHLOEA 30CH
The researcher proposes that Acacia xanthophloea 30CH has a predominance
of symptoms correlating to the features of the Psoric miasm. However there are
also some symptoms that may be corresponding to the Sycotic miasm.
5.5.1
The Psoric Miasm
[Sankaran] (1997:219) The Psoric miasm has two central concepts;
perceiving stress from the outside and anxiety with self-doubt in terms of
capacity to deal with stress.
As a result there is worry and fears of poverty and failure.
Choudhury(1997:9-30) states that the Psoric miasm has the following
indications; hypersensitivity, restlessness, timidity, inflammation of mucous
membranes, affections with pruritis, neuralgic pains, nervousness and anxiety,
burning sensations, weakness with emaciation.
The complaints of Psora are essentially functional and sensational in
character (Sankaran, 2005:9).
The proving symptoms of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH appeared to display the
above mentioned Psoric features and particularly the following symptoms:
Anxiety and lack of self confidence, with self doubt about the future.
Fear of poverty.
Fear of failure.
Hypersensitivity to light, noise and company.
Hypersensitive and allergic type symptoms of inflammation + itching
especially of the nasal passages and the conjunctiva.
Restlessness.
Eruptions such as dermatitis, fungal type eruptions and pimples.
Itching or pruritis accompanied the eruptions.
The burning sensation predominated the areas of inflammation like the
eye and other mucous membranes.
The generalised symptoms of inflammation of redness, swelling, heat and
pain was present with the inflammation of the mucous membranes.
The lack in energy, drained feeling and generalised lazy feeling.
Decrease in body mass.
Various pains and symptoms, that were functional in nature, described as
sensations such as poking, burning, hitting, pulling, bloated feeling and
heartburn.
5.5.2
The Sycotic Miasm
The main expression of the Sycotic miasm is excessive discharges and the
affection of the genitourinary system (Choudhury 1997:66) as is seen in the
female symptoms of
Acacia xanthophloea 30CH, of protracted menorrhagia with clotting.
5.6
CLINICAL INDICATIONS FOR ACACIA XANTHOPHLOEA 30CH
In the proving of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH a broad range of symptoms
were revealed. These were the indications for clinical conditions that may be
treated by
prescribing the proving remedy, Acacia xanthophloea 30CH. It is
therefore vital that further research studies are conducted to determine the
efficacy and effectiveness of
Acacia xanthophloea 30CH in the treatment of these clinical conditions.
The clinical application of these conditions includes the following:
Acne / Pimples
Allergic dermatitis
Abcesses
Fungal eruptions
Arthritis and arthralgia
Fibromyalgia
Neck pain
Backache
Concentration abnormalities
Anxiety
Depression
Diabetes mellitus
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Abdominal cramps
Heart burn
Nausea and vomiting
Apthous ulcers
Irritable bowel syndrome
Eye complaints such as allergic conjunctivitis
Headache
Influenza
Malaise / Tiredness
Sinusitis
disorders / insomnia
Stress related disorders
Cystitis
Vertigo
5.7
SUMMARY
The correlation between the African traditional medicinal usages of
Acacia xanthophloea to the symptoms produced by the provers during the duration
of the proving was distinctly evident. However, it is acknowledged that the
correlation between the proving substance and the African traditional medicinal
usages of Acacia xanthophloea are subjective. The interpretation can be
performed in a different method or procedure from one person to another.
Suche Greek
A
homoeopathic drug proving of Acacia Xanthophloea 30CH, with subsequent
comparison to the doctrine of signatures
[Gugulethu Moonlight Zondi]
The objective of the following study was threefold: to conduct a
homoeopathic drug proving of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH on healthy individuals in
order to elucidate the totality of signs and symptoms produced by the drug
substance; to analyse the signs and symptoms gathered from the proving, collate
the data, and convert the symptoms into materia medica symptoms and rubrics; to
compare the symptoms of the proving to the doctrine of signatures.
Methodology
This proving study was a double-blinded, placebo controlled study.
Thirty provers or participants were recruited for the study and the sample size
was divided equally between two researchers (A. Gobind and G. Zondi). The
sample was randomly divided into two groups, with one group receiving an active
substance (verum group) and the other group receiving a placebo (control
group). Amongst the 30 provers, 24 participants received verum and six received
placebo. Each prover was given a journal to record their symptoms, a pen and
nine powders. The duration of this proving study was six weeks including the
first week of baseline during which time each prover was required to record
their symptoms before taking the proving substance. This procedure was clearly
explained to each prover and an information sheet with detail explanation of
the proving procedure was provided and informed consent obtained. A thorough
case history was taken in the initial consultation and physical examinations to
ensure that individuals participating met the inclusion criteria and were
healthy.
Results
Information derived both researchers was combined and the extraction of
signs and symptoms then commenced. The symptoms were translated into materia
medica and repertory format and graded accordingly. Thereafter the symptoms
that emerged from the study were discussed and compared with the doctrine of
signatures of Acacia xanthophloea.
Provers experienced a wide range of symptoms mentally and emotionally
e.g. anger, poor concentration and focus, disconnected feeling, depression,
stress, anxiety, antisocial/ aversion to company, tranquillity. A large number
of physical symptoms were noted by provers e. g. headaches, ailments of
extremities (joint pain, weakness), female related symptoms (irregular menses,
decrease/ increase libido etc.), eye symptoms, skin symptoms and general
symptoms. The comparison of the symptoms of Acacia xanthophloea 30CH to the
doctrine of signatures of the tree Acacia xanthophloea illustrated certain
similarities, especially with regard to skin symptoms, eye symptoms,
gastrointestinal symptoms and headaches.
Conclusion
The proving substance Acacia xanthophloea 30CH did produced signs and
symptoms when given to healthy individuals as hypothesised. The symptoms when
compared to the doctrine of signatures of the acacia xanthophloea tree did show
correlation as hypothesised.