Abstract
M. Tech.
Since year zero of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, homosexuality has been linked to HIV/AIDS (Hooper; 2000). HIV positive homosexual individuals, therefore, are exposed to double stigmatisation; that of being homosexual and of being infected with HIV/AIDS. Taking into account the link between psyche, neural and immunological function, the above statement directly impacts the pathophysiology and prognosis of HIV/AIDS (Forrest and Kanbus; 2004) (De Kooker; 2002). This study examines the psychological and emotional states of the subjects, which are influenced, not only by their disease state but also by social stigmatisation. The aim of the study is to obtain a comprehensive homoeopathic symptom picture of HIV positive homosexual males within a South African context, compare this to existing homoeopathic symptom pictures, discuss HIV/AIDS in terms of miasmatic theory and consider possible homoeopathic treatment options for HIV/AIDS.
This is a qualitative pilot study. Fourteen HIV positive homosexual males, of varying race, were recruited through Caritas Care and interviewed in Gauteng. The participants were between the ages of twenty and fifty and in stage one to three of HIV infection. Six of the participants were on antiretroviral therapy, eight not. The participants were interviewed using set questionnaires and underwent a physical examination. The interview transcripts were analysed and compared to each other then commonalities extracted to obtain a composite symptom picture. The composite symptom picture was compared to existing genus epidemicus symptom pictures and existing nosode proving pictures. The composite symptom picture was analysed using Cara Pro computerized repertorisation to determine possible treatment options. This computer programme affords the user access to multiple repertories simultaneously for rubric selection, and then analyses the case allowing for the use of different strategies. The composite symptom picture was also analysed in terms of miasmatic characteristics.
The study concludes that the composite symptom picture partially matches existing HIV/AIDS genus epidemicus symptom pictures and nosode proving pictures. The composite symptom picture exhibits prominent themes of mental and emotional restlessness, generalized weakness, rebelliousness, desire for control and a desire for warmth. Possible treatment options are indicated. The include the remedies Sepia, Apis mellifica, Bryonia alba, Iodium and Natrum carbonicum but particularly of the Flouratum mineral group remedies such as Calcarea fluorica and Acidum flouricum. The study indicates that HIV/AIDS is emerging as a new miasm exhibiting characteristics of the Sycotic and Tuberculinic miasms.
Dr. L. Solomon
Dr. T. Blake