Alternative therapies in health and medicine最新文献

Background: This manuscript describes a newly developed Meditation protocol that has emerged through personal experience of the author over an extended period. Rooted in traditional mindfulness practices but adapted through lived experience, this protocol offers a unique approach to Meditation, aiming to foster cognition, deeper self-awareness, and emotional balance. Unlike other protocols grounded in formal research, this practice is shaped by intuitive insights and personal exploration.

Objective: The primary objective of the novel Pranchakra Meditation is to enhance the practitioner engagement (such as maintaining focus) and foster regular practice along with providing health benefits (such as managing stress).

Methodology: Pranchakra Meditation is a combination practice including pranayama, dhyana, and bandha of Indian traditional yogic origin. The author utilizes personal academic and professional expertise, focus group discussion, and thematic analysis to design the protocol including five practicing academicians in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy and three independent Yoga practitioners.

Results: Preliminary anecdotal feedback suggests that practitioners experience enhanced clarity and relaxation. The protocol showed strong validation overall, with most criteria receiving ≥75% agreement. Feedback highlighted the protocol effectiveness in maintaining engagement.

Conclusion: Pranchakra Meditation represents a promising tool in Meditation practice, although further research is necessary to validate its broader applicability. This protocol has the potential to contribute significantly to the evolving landscape of meditative practices and invites future studies for formal validation.

Keywords: Meditation, Pranayama, Yoga, Bandha, Pranchakra, Protocol design.

Objective: The study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the efficacy of Shenqi Yanshen Granule in ameliorating proteinuria among nephrotic syndrome patients in renal function stages 1-3.

Methods: 100 patients with nephrotic syndrome and renal function stages 1-3, treated at our hospital from May 2021 to March 2023 were enrolled. All patients received Shenqi Yanshen granule treatment. The patients were divided into the control group (n = 68, with proteinuria reduction of ≥50%) and the observation group (n = 32, with proteinuria reduction of <50% or increased proteinuria) at 24 hours after treatment. Clinical data, proteinuria levels at 24 hours after treatment, renal function indices, and mean blood pressure were statistically compared. The efficacy of Shenqi Yanshen Granule in treating proteinuria and factors influencing the efficacy was assessed using multiple logistic regression.

Results: The observation group had a higher average age and duration of disease compared to the control group (P < .05). Upon treatment, proteinuria decreased in both groups (P < .05), with higher levels in the observation group than in the control group. Post-treatment, serum creatinine levels decreased and GFR increased in the control group (P < .05), while the serum creatinine level increased and GFR decreased in the observation group (P < .05). Mean blood pressure decreased in both groups post-treatment (P < .05). The observation group exhibited lower rates of remarkable and effective outcomes and higher rates of general effective and ineffective outcomes (P < .05). Logistic regression analysis highlighted age, severity of nephropathy, underlying conditions, lifestyle, and pre-treatment proteinuria as significant factors influencing the impact of Shenqi Yanshen Granule on proteinuria in patients with nephrotic syndrome (P < .05).

Conclusion: Shenqi Yanshen Granule proves to be a potent intervention for reducing proteinuria in patients with nephrotic syndrome. Notably, age and disease severity emerge as pivotal determinants of drug efficacy.

Keywords: Shenqi Yanshen Granule, Nephrotic syndrome, Proteinuria, Influencing factors of curative effect.

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), marked by social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors, significantly impacts the quality of life for kids and caregivers. Herbal medicines help manage symptoms, yet no comprehensive review has collectively summarized recent evidence (2018-mid-2025).

Methods: This narrative review utilized searches across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify studies published on herbal medicines for ASD. Inclusion criteria prioritized clinical trials and preclinical studies detailing plant bioactive compounds, dosing, and mechanisms.

Key findings: Prominent herbs include Bacopa monnieri, which can enhance cognitive flexibility via bacosides; Curcuma longa (curcumin), which can reduce oxidative stress and repetitive behaviors; and Green Tea Extract (luteolin), which can modulate neuroinflammation. Cannabinoids show modest improvements in sleep and social engagement, while Ginkgo biloba improves cerebral blood flow. Passionflower and Valerian Root alleviate anxiety and hyperactivity through GABAergic pathways, and probiotic-fermented herbal combinations target gut-brain axis dysfunction. Ashwagandha demonstrates neuroprotective effects in preclinical trials.

Clinical implications: Herbal therapies may address core ASD symptoms (anxiety and hyperactivity) and comorbidities (sleep disturbances and gastrointestinal issues). However, standardization of herbal formulations and rigorous dosing protocols are needed. Integrative approaches combining herbs with behavioral therapies show accepted synergistic potential but require further validation. While herbal medicine may offer supportive benefits, it should never be intended to replace other evidence-based therapies (e.g., applied behavior analysis and speech therapy).

Future directions: Large-scale randomized clinical trials are crucial to confirming efficacy, safety, and optimal dosing. Research must address herb-drug interactions, long-term effects, and biomarkers for personalized treatment.

Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, herbal medicines, narrative review, doses recommendation, therapeutic effects, side effects.

Background: The Unani system of medicine is rooted in the Theory of Humors, where health is maintained through the balance of four bodily fluids (blood, phlegm, bile, and black bile). Its treatment approach is holistic, encompassing Ilaj bil Tadbeer (Regimental therapy), Ilaj bil Ghida (Dietotherapy), Ilaj bil Dawa (Pharmacotherapy), and Ilaj bil Yad (Surgery). Huqna (enema) is a key non-pharmacological regimen therapy in Unani medicine, used to cleanse the bowels and restore humoral balance. Its roots trace back to ancient Greek physicians like Hippocrates and Galen.

Objectives: This integrative review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Huqna therapy, exploring its historical, philosophical, and practical aspects while bridging traditional Unani practices with modern medical paradigms.

Materials and methods: A review of classical Unani literature and modern scientific sources was conducted. Historical texts were analyzed alongside contemporary studies on enema therapy in modern medicine. Relevant English-language literature up to 2024 was evaluated.

Results: The study highlights the definition, principles, and therapeutic applications of Huqna in traditional Unani medicine and compares them with the diagnostic and therapeutic uses of enemas in modern healthcare. Key convergences include their shared utility in managing bowel disorders and inflammatory conditions, while divergences emerge in procedural advancements and safety considerations.

Conclusion: Huqna therapy demonstrates significant potential as a complementary approach in modern healthcare. However, further research is needed to validate its efficacy and address limitations. This analysis fosters a deeper understanding of Huqna therapy, encouraging its integration into contemporary medical practice.

Keywords: Huqna, Enema, Unani Medicine, Integrative Medicine, Traditional Therapy.

Objective: To explore the effect of feedforward control and control system on reducing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) rate in primary hospitals.

Methods: Multi-period PPH special training classes were held in five primary hospitals, such as the Ruyuan Yao Autonomous County People's Hospital, Wengyuan County People's Hospital, located in Shaoguan, Guangdong, China, from 2017 to 2018. In this study, theoretical teaching combined with practical operations were performed. Clinical case-control analysis of PPH risk before and after PPH training was carried out.

Results: After training, the overall incidence of PPH decreased by 0.44% in the five hospitals (χ2 = 7.16, P = .007), the incidence of PPH in natural delivery decreased by 0.47% (χ2 = 5.41, P = .02), and decreased by 0.37% in cesarean section (χ2 = 1.86, P = .173). Uterine atony was the most common cause of PPH, but placental factors caused greater amount of delivery hemorrhage and bleeding 24 hours after delivery in the cases of PPH than uterine atony.

Conclusion: Adopting feedforward control management and constructing a control system in Shaoguan primary hospitals could effectively reduce the incidence of PPH. It is imperative to strengthen the training of pregnancy management and hemostasis surgery for pregnant women with placental factors.

Keywords: PPH, primary hospitals, feedforward control, control system.

Background: Wound infections are a common complication of trauma or pathological disorders, posing significant treatment challenges. Historical medical texts describe around 60 procedures to facilitate wound healing, ensure proper tissue approximation, and achieve scar-free recovery. Among these, techniques involving bloodletting have proven particularly effective. One such method, leech therapy, is a biological debridement technique that supports wound cleaning and healing through controlled bloodletting. This minimally invasive and cost-effective therapy improves circulation, reduces local swelling, and enhances wound healing by removing infected or congested blood. Additionally, anticoagulants and bioactive substances in leech saliva help with inflammation reduction, wound cleaning, and tissue regeneration. With high efficacy in cleansing and repairing wounds, leech therapy is invaluable in treating infected or chronic wounds. Its simplicity, safety, and effectiveness make it an accessible therapeutic option for healthcare settings. Leech salivary gland secretions (SGS) contain over 150 bioactive ingredients like Hyaluronidase, Hirustasin, Eglins, and Bdellins, which have analgesic, anaesthetic, anti-microbial, blood-thinning, and anti-inflammatory properties, which collaboratively work in favour of wound healing and pain management.

Aims and objectives: To evaluate the impact of Jalaukavcharan (blood-letting) on wound healing and pain relief. This study aims to present an evidence-based practice of leech therapy in the form of a case series.

Material and methods: Four patients with infected wounds, including some with non-healing wounds.

Results: All the patients showed steady improvement in wound healing and pain management.

Conclusion: Jalaukavacharan, combined with oral antibiotics and herbal medications, exhibits notable efficacy in wound healing within wound management protocols, showcasing remarkable effects on the overall healing process.

Keywords: Infected wounds, chronic non-healing wound, Ayurveda, Leech Therapy, case series.

Background: Depression is a prevalent mental health disorder affecting millions globally, leading to significant personal and societal burdens. Characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and various cognitive and physical symptoms, it remains a major clinical challenge. Current treatment methods primarily rely on antidepressants and psychotherapy; however, many patients experience limited relief or adverse side effects, necessitating alternative approaches. Unani medicine offers a holistic strategy, focusing on humoral balance through natural remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.

Objectives: This review aims to examine depression from both modern and traditional perspectives.

Methodology: A comprehensive review was conducted by analyzing classical Unani manuscripts and contemporary scientific databases. Foundational texts such as Al-Qanoon Fit Tib, Kamil-us-Sana'a, Zakhira Khwarzam Shahi, Al Aqseer, and Moulijat Buqratiya were assessed for insights. Modern databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were systematically searched with terms like "Malikhuliya", "Unani medicine", "depression", "black bile", and "mental disorders". Articles addressing both theoretical frameworks and clinical perspectives on depression were included in the study.

Results and discussion: Comparing modern and traditional treatments provides key insights into depression management. Conventional pharmacotherapy, including Selective Serotonin Reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), effectively alleviates symptoms but has drawbacks such as delayed efficacy, side effects, and relapse risks. Studies suggest that integrating Unani principles with modern therapies may enhance treatment outcomes by improving adherence, reducing side effects, and promoting holistic well-being.

Conclusion: Unani medicine provides complementary strategies that emphasize overall well-being. Integrating both systems may enhance treatment effectiveness, ensuring a balanced and personalized approach. Clinical trials assessing Unani herbal formulations alongside conventional medications could optimize depression management, paving the way for improved mental health care globally.

Keywords: depression, psychotherapy, melancholy, Unani Medicine, Malikhuliya.

Background: Ageing leads to changes in the musculoskeletal, vascular, and nervous systems, diminishing strength, balance, and coordination, which increases the risk of fall (RoF), and may result in injuries, fear, and social isolation. Yoga effectively reduces RoF in older adults by improving flexibility, strength, and balance, enhancing stability, confidence, and overall well-being.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of a four-week yoga intervention on the RoF, gait speed, and quality of life (QoL) in the young-old population.

Setting: The study was conducted in a single geographical area (Belagavi city, Karnataka, India) from October 2024 to February 2025.

Participants: 23 participants (11 men and 12 women) with mild to moderate balance impairment. Participants are aged 65 to 74 years old. The group had an average BMI of 25.38, was capable of walking 3 meters, and had no serious comorbid conditions. One person was lost to follow-up, and no adverse effects were reported.

Intervention: Participants underwent a week-wise structured yoga intervention: a 30-minute session, thrice a week, for four weeks. Each session included 5 minutes of pre-workout, 20 minutes of yoga asanas, and 5 minutes of cool-down. Asanas progressed weekly in complexity and balance challenge.

Primary outcome measures: RoF using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Gait speed using the Timed Up and Go test (TUG), and QoL using the Older People's Quality of Life (OPQOL)-Brief questionnaire.

Results: Yoga intervention showed significant improvements (P < .05) over time in BBS, TUG, and OPQOL-Brief scores.

Conclusion: Yoga intervention led to notable improvements in reducing the RoF, improving gait speed, and QoL from baseline to week 4 among the young-old population.

Keywords: elderly, yoga, risk of fall, gait speed, berg balance scale, quality of life.

Background: Psoriasis remains an incurable and recurrent condition despite modern treatment. Traditional Unani Medicine recommends numerous formulations for psoriasis, but with little supporting scientific evidence.

Primary study objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Majoon Mundi and Roghan Gul compared to apremilast and coconut oil in managing chronic plaque psoriasis (CPP).

Methods/design: The study was a randomized, open-label, standard-controlled clinical trial, with 33 participants. 20 patients completed the 6-week treatment course in the test group, while 10 patients completed the 6-week treatment course in the control group.

Setting: The study was conducted at the National Institute of Unani Medicine (NIUM), Bangalore, India, from June 2021 to December 2021.

Participants: Participants aged 18-60 years, of either gender, diagnosed with CPP, and based on psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score.

Interventions: The participants in the test group received 10 g of Majoon Mundi orally twice daily after meals and Roghan Gul for topical use twice daily, while the participants in the active control group received apremilast orally in a titrated dose and coconut oil as a topical application twice daily.

Outcome measures: The primary outcome of the study was a reduction in PASI score, and the secondary outcome was a reduction in dermatology life quality index (DLQI) score. Photographic assessments were conducted at the 14th, 28th, and 42nd day of the follow-up period.

Results: Intragroup analyses revealed that the test and control groups experienced a statistically significant reduction in PASI and DLQI scores (P < .001). Intergroup analysis showed no statistically significant difference in the reduction of PASI and DLQI scores between groups (P = .772 and .775, respectively).

Conclusion: This study found that together, Majoon Mundi and Roghan Gul are as effective as apremilast and coconut oil in decreasing PASI and DLQI scores for managing CPP.

Keywords: apremilast, comparative study, herbal medicine, psoriasis, unani medicine.

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition often associated with hypertension and diabetes, leading to impaired renal function and poor quality of life.

Objective: This study employed alternative and holistic approaches to enhance kidney function in a 56-year-old male diagnosed with CKD in 2021, hypertension in January 2021, and diabetes mellitus type 2 in 2022, who presented with worsening renal function and back pain symptoms.

Study design: Single-patient case study at a single centre.

Intervention: A 12-day intervention based on an integrated naturopathy and yoga approach was provided, which included therapeutic yoga, diet, hydrotherapy, manipulative, and relaxation techniques.

Setting: Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Yoga and Nature Cure Hospital, Dharmasthala, India.

Outcome measures: General parameters (weight and body mass index), blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), kidney profile (creatinine and urea), urine profile (protein and sugar), blood glucose (fasting blood sugar and postprandial blood sugar), and pain (using Visual Analog Scale).

Results: Post-treatment evaluation showed a notable improvement in his fasting blood sugar (15%), postprandial blood sugar (32%), blood pressure (~10%), serum creatinine (32%), proteinuria, glycosuria, and pain score relief (60-80%).

Conclusion: This suggests that an integrated yoga and naturopathy approach may be considered an alternative or adjunct treatment for managing CKD. However, additional research is needed to validate these findings.

Keywords: chronic kidney disease, yoga, naturopathy, diet, case study.