The homoeopathic treatment of acne

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the degree of proficiency of Homoeopathy in the treatment of Acne Vulgaris in terms of its clinical manifestations and the patients perception to the treatment in order to determine the role Homoeopathy plays, if any, in the treatment of this condition. In this study the specific single variable design chosen was the 'before-and-after with control'. A sample of thirty patients was randomly taken from the greater Durban area, and from this sample fifteen patients were treated with Homoeopathic treatment and the remaining fifteen received placebo treatment. Patients were screened using a series of delimitations set out in a consent form which was signed by the patients. An extensive case history was performed on each patient at the first consultation in order to assess their Mental, Emotional and their Physical well being and were seen at regular four week intervals thereafter. The patients were also photographed at the first and all the subsequent visits. Based on the case history and a physical examination, Homoeopathic medication or placebo was prescribed according to the law of similars. At each of the following consultations the patients completed a questionnaire regarding their perception to the treatment and were rephotographed noting any changes.