The efficacy of a homoeopathic flu complex (arsenicum iodatum, gelsemium sempervirens, eupatorium perfoliatum and ferrum phosphoricum) in the treatment of influenza type syndrome.

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of a homoeopathic flu complex consisting of Arsenicum album, Gelsemium sempervirens, Eupertorium perfoliatum and Ferrum phosphoricum in the treatment of influenza type syndrome in terms of the patient's response to the treatment and the patient's oral temperature. It was hypothesised that the flu complex would reduce the severity and duration of symptoms in patients suffering from influenza type syndrome in terms of the patient's response to the treatment and the patient's temperature. This complex was formulated in the 30th potency by Dr Bloch and Dr Lewis of Cape Town, who have had much success using it in the treatment of influenza type syndrome, especially where no clear symptoms were present on which to prescribe. The remedies in the complex are often individually used to treat 'flu' ,with good results. This study was a double blind randomised, placebo-controlled investigation. Convenience sampling was used to select 30 patients of both sex and between the ages of 18 and 60 years, from the greater Johannesburg-Pretoria area. Patients had to have an oral temperature of 37.8\xB0C greater and had to experience influenza like symptoms of s 24 hour duration. 111ou