HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT IN CASES OF CONTACT DERMATITIS USING BOENNINGHAUSEN’S CHARACTERISTICS MATERIA MEDICA AND REPERTORY BY C. M. BOGER- A STUDY

Abstract

Background: Contact dermatitis (CD) is a type of eczema triggered by contact to a particular substance. Itching, rash, dryness of skin, burning or stinging, blisters are some common sign and symptoms of contact dermatitis. Homoeopathy works upon the holistic approach so proper case taking of the patient, is done and medicine is prescribed accordingly.

Objective: To ascertain the efficacy of Homoeopathic Medicines in treatment of cases of Contact dermatitis.

Method: 50 cases were included in the study as per inclusion and exclusion criteria, at the OPD of Dr. M.P.K. Homoeopathic Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Jaipur. These were enrolled for the prospective interventional trial. Detailed case taking of the patient and analysis & evaluation of the symptoms were done. Then repertorisation was done using Boenninghausen’s Characteristics & Repertory and similar medicine in proper dose and potency was prescribed. At least 6 follow–ups of the patient was done from 2- 14 days as per the severity of complaints.

Result: In the study out of 50 cases, 21 cases (42%) were in the age group of 21-30 years. Maximum cases i.e., 32 cases (64%) were females. The maximum incidence as observed in housewives i.e. 15 cases (30%). The predominance of itching as a symptom, was present in 28 cases (56%). 29 cases (58%) showed irritant contact dermatitis. The medicine which was prescribed for the maximum number of times was Sulphur i.e., in 16 cases (32%). 11 cases (22%) showed relative improvement. 37 cases (74%) showed moderate improvement. Thus, in total of 48 cases (96%) showed the positive results.

Conclusion: Homoeopathic medicines are quite effective in the treatment of cases of contact dermatitis and BBCR is a great tool having wide range of rubrics related to contact dermatitis and is useful in the selection of remedy.

Key words: Contact dermatitis, homoeopathy, Boenninghausen’s characteristics and repertory, indivisualised homoeopathic medicine.