Abstract
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a group of physical, mental and behavioural symptoms that occur
cyclically through the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and resolve within three days of the onset
of menstruation. More women are affected by the physical and psychological symptoms of
premenstrual syndrome than any other condition. A study done by Brohi et al. (2011) showed that
PMS is a common problem that occurs in 81.25% of women and has an adverse impact on a
woman’s quality of life. The symptoms of PMS can change the behavior and wellbeing of women
which has an impact on families, social life and work. Research has shown that women with PMS
reported additional days missed from work compared to women that do not suffer with PMS. A
study done by Brohi et al. (2011) showed that PMS is a common problem that occurs in 81.25% of
women and has an adverse impact on a woman’s quality of life. Conventional treatment is limited,
not always effective and is associated with many side effects. Research using individualised
homeopathic treatment in PMS has been shown to be effective, however there have not been any
studies done on homeopathic treatment in Indian females in South Africa.
The aim of this observational study was to determine the efficacy of individualised homeopathic
treatment on females of Indian origin in South Africa who were suffering with symptoms of PMS
using case studies and a PMS grading chart.
This was a 12 week individualised homeopathic study conducted at the Homeopathic Health
Training Centre on the UJ Doornfontein Campus. South African Indian females between 18-40
years of age were recruited using advertisements in the form of posters. Ten South African Indian
females participated in this study. Each participant attended a total of four consultations over a 12
week period. During the first consultation the researcher explained the study to the individuals who
met the criteria based on the selection questionnaire, they were then requested to sign the Participant
Information and Consent Form. A full case history was taken using a standard homeopathic case
taking form. Participants were required to score their daily symptoms on a PMS chart from the
beginning of each menstrual cycle until the beginning of the next cycle. A baseline of each
participant’s premenstrual symptoms was established by an initial treatment free month. During the
follow up consultations (week 4, 8 and end of week 12) the PMS charts were collected, and a case
taking and relevant physical examinations were completed. At the end of the consultation in week 4
and 8 an individualised homeopathic remedy was prescribed...
M.Tech. (Homoeopathy)