Abstract
M.Tech. (Homoeopathy)
The common cold is an acute viral infection of the respiratory tract, usually afebrile in nature. It is characterized by inflammation of the airways (Beers and Porter 2006). Influenza, commonly referred to as “flu”, is an acute and highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract. It is easily spread by sneezing and coughing (Balch, 2006). Conventional medication typically includes: aspirin, nasal decongestants, antihistamines, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antiviral drugs, but these substances may produce unwanted side-effects. If a secondary bacterial infection develops, antibiotics are added (Beers, 2003). Linctagon® Forte Capsules are a self-help proprietary medication by Nativa containing Pelargonium sidoides, Quercetin, Bromelain and Zinc, and is used for the treatment of colds and influenza (Nativa, 2011), but further research is required for this product.
The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of Linctagon® Forte Capsules on the symptoms of colds and influenza of female resident students between the ages of eighteen and thirty five years at the University of Johannesburg. Efficacy was determined by means of a modified “Severity of Symptoms Questionnaire” and a modified “Quality of Life Questionnaire”.
Thirty female participants, aged between 18 and 35 years, with symptoms of common cold and influenza, were recruited in this double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized study, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants were recruited by means of advertising flyers and posters at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) campuses as well as the University of Johannesburg female residences. Participants that presented with any of the common cold or influenza symptoms were to immediately contact the researcher to set up an initial interview. The study was conducted over an eight day period with a total of three consultations. During the first consultation, the participants were requested to sign a “Participant Profile Form”, a “Participant Information and Consent Form” and undergo the relevant physical examinations. Participants were then given either the placebo capsules or the Linctagon® Forte Capsules and instructed to take one capsule three times daily. Participants were also requested to complete a modified “Severity of Symptoms Questionnaire” and a modified “Quality of Life Questionnaire” every evening for the duration of the study.
All data collected during the study was statistically analysed using Chi Square as well as the Descriptive Analysis (Smith, 2011).