by Michael Frass  and Katharina Gaertner

Received: 16 January 2019;  Published: 16 April 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1902023

This case reports of a 71-year-old patient with polycythemia vera (PCV). Homeopathic treatment began 15 years after his diagnosis at the age of 51. The frequency of phlebotomies was lowered significantly after the start of the homeopathic treatment; the patient survived another 16 years without chemotherapy, which he had rejected despite appropriate education. For someone with PCV who denied chemotherapy, this patient had a long survival time of more than 30 years, essentially enjoying good health and high quality [...]

by Katia Belvedere  , Elio Rossi  , Mariella Di Stefano  and Sonia Baccetti

Received: 22 February 2019;  Published: 10 April 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1902022

Complementary Medicine (CM) is being increasingly used by European citizens in order to increase their overall state of health and well-being, as well as to treat various illnesses and diseases. The interest for these therapies has progressively risen also in Italy and in Tuscany as well. In response to the increasing demand in the past few years by the Tuscan citizens, the region of Tuscany has started their integration in the healthcare service. Since 1996, the Tuscan Regional Healthcare Plans (RHPs) have been co [...]

by Pei-Chen Lo  , Bo-Ting Lyu  and Wu Jue Miao Tian

Received: 30 July 2018;  Published: 01 April 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1902021

Background: This research aims to develop new methods to investigate the cardiorespiratory interaction of Zen-meditation practitioners (Zen-meditation group) and healthy ordinary young people (control group) by quantitatively evaluating respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) behavior. Methods: Twenty-five voluntary controls and seven Zen-meditation practitioners were recruited. The experimental protocol involved five sessions of different mental-stress levels (control group) and five sessions of Zen-meditation practice [...]

by Carmelo Guido  , Valentina Selmi  , Cosimo Chelazzi  , Giulia Borsotti  , Rita Giachetti  , Vittorio Limatola  , Martina Sicurani  and Angelo Raffaele De Gaudio

Received: 29 September 2018;  Published: 28 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901020

Background: In recent years, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) techniques have become very widespread; among these, acupuncture can play an important role in the treatment of adverse effects related to chemotherapy. This role has been recognized by the National Institutes of Health after many clinical studies, thus allowing the official introduction of acupuncture in supportive therapy for oncological diseases, particularly to prevent nausea and vomiting. The aim of this paper is to describe the activity [...]

by Harry G. Hong

Received: 10 December 2018;  Published: 25 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901019

Background: Electrodermal measurement of acupuncture points has been correlated to physiologic and pathologic conditions with clinical and laboratory studies. Emerging evidence indicates that in addition to therapeutic effect, acupuncture points may also have diagnostic properties. However, physiologic basis of this phenomenon is still unknown. Objective: To determine how electrodermal activity of acupuncture points on hands and feet responds to exercise-induced sympathetic stress and how electrodermal measurement [...]

by Paul D. Loprinzi

Received: 07 February 2019;  Published: 21 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901018

The objective of this brief systematic review was to examine the effects of aquatic exercise on cognitive function. Studies were identified using electronic databases, including PubMed, PsychInfo, Sports Discus and Google Scholar. In total, 13 articles met the inclusionary criteria. Among the 13 studies, all 13 demonstrated beneficial cognitive effects from exercise. This included chronic aquatic exercise-induced improvements in global cognition, executive function, attention, learning and memory, cognitively-relat [...]

by Natalia Sylvia Ramos Díaz

Received: 23 August 2018;  Published: 14 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901017

One of the objectives of psychological intervention is to help patients manage their emotions effectively by providing them with the necessary skills to accompany their own emotional states. To this regard, there seems to be a current lack of therapeutic resources aimed at helping patients assimilate and regulate emotions. This article proposes the application of a new technique which incorporates mindfulness, building on the premises of the model of psychological flexibility which defines "mindfulness" as a practi [...]

by Cynthia M.A. Geppert  and Ronald W. Pies

Received: 01 March 2019;  Published: 04 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901016

Compassion in Clinical Care

by Jeffery Jonathan Joshua (ישוע) Davis  , Florian Schübeler  and Robert Kozma

Received: 26 November 2018;  Published: 04 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901015

Background: Psychophysiological coherence has been widely studied as a bodily state associated with general well-being and cognitive clarity. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) has been shown to be a good biomarker to assess psychophysiological coherence. This paper presents the first general set of results concerning a study that is part of a team effort between a body of researchers in 5 countries led by the HeartMath Institute under the name, International Heart Rate Variability Synchronization (IHRVS) Study. This stu [...]

by James David Adams

Received: 25 February 2019;  Published: 27 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901014

The nervous system is everywhere in the body, especially in the skin. Ancient Chinese acupuncture charts show us that the nerves are all connected and can work together to promote health. This connection occurs through the brain and brain stem. It is clear that acupuncture is analgesic by inhibition of transient receptor potential cation channels in the skin [1]. The role of chemokines in pain is becoming understood. Chemokines promote pain in the skin and activate ascending neural pathways that regulate chemo [...]

by Istvan Széchenyi

Received: 16 October 2018;  Published: 26 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901013

Background: In the international auriculotherapy practice there are relatively big differences in the exact localization of the same ear acupuncture point. On one hand, there are specialists who devote their efforts to find the active points. In that case it becomes intriguing that there may be another point (at 1-2 mm distance) near the point to be treated, indicating a relatively strong, even stronger activity than the one they were initially aiming to find. That point may be active because of another health prob [...]

by Gunnel Berry

Received: 13 April 2018;  Published: 25 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901012

Chronic pain is notoriously multifactorial, multifaceted and difficult to manage. Twenty per cent of reported whiplash-injured persons go on to develop a Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) where persistent pain becomes chronic with no prospect of change [1]. Paucity of effective therapies to address the effect of WAD enforces new approaches. This case report, with a patient’s perspective, illustrates a novel therapy, Adapted Reflextherapy (AdRx), which is akin to reflexology and has been used, developed and revised [...]

by Paul D. Loprinzi  , Emily Frith  and Faith Harris

Received: 17 December 2018;  Published: 21 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901011

Background: Learning and memory, unquestionably, are critical for many aspects of life, including acquisition and retention of educational material. The purpose of this brief narrative review is to provide a primer on empirical-based, learning and memory techniques. Methods: A narrative review approach is employed. Results: This review is structured by first discussing contextual factors that influence learning and memory, followed by addressing several specific techniques to help facilitate learning and memory ret [...]

by Peta Stapleton  , Craig Buchan  , Ian MItchell  , Yasmin McGrath  , Paul Gorton  and Brett Carter

Received: 11 December 2018;  Published: 15 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901010

Background: This pilot randomised clinical trial investigated the effect of Clinical Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) on brain activation in response to food craving stimuli using functional magnetic resonance imaging. EFT is a brief stress reduction technique which involves stating a cognitive statement with stimulation of acupressure points with a tapping technique. Method: Fifteen overweight/obese adults were allocated to a four-week group EFT treatment or control condition and completed a measure of food crav [...]

by Robert Marx  and Lisa Burroughes

Received: 13 October 2018;  Published: 02 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901009

Background: Training is generally not available for those wishing to deliver non 8 week Mindfulness Based Interventions (MBIs) adapted for specific contexts and populations. A new model for training in MBIs is developed with the following principle components: teaching on theory, participation in a practice, followed by teaching the practice and receiving feedback, and consultation and discussion of live mindfulness-based work. Methods: A quantitative and qualitative evaluation is presented of the experience of the [...]

by Rosaria Ferreri  , Simonetta Bernardini  , Franco Cracolici  and Francesca Bechini

Received: 29 September 2018;  Published: 01 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901008

Background: Complementary medicines (CM), including homeopathy, acupuncture, and traditional Chinese medicine, have been introduced for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment in the Pitigliano Hospital Centre of Integrated Medicine in order to minimize the side effects of these treatments, which improves quality of life and adherence to conventional therapies. Methods: Cancer patients (240) were enrolled in an integrated care model offering a comprehensive protocol including homeopathy a [...]

by Sharon Freeman Clevenger

Received: 25 November 2018;  Published: 31 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901007

The cornerstone of health care practice is the provision of competent, compassionate care. Compassion is generally considered an important component in the provision of health care; however, self-compassion may be of equal importance for health care practitioners (HCP) to observe and develop. Self-compassion promotes well-being and overall mental health and may reduce fatigue and “burn-out” for HCPs [1]. Estimates of burn out in physicians and nurses range from 35-50% and is associated with emotional exhaustion, hi [...]

by Franco Cracolici  , Simonetta Bernardini  and Rosaria Ferreri

Received: 14 October 2018;  Published: 30 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901006

Background: Acupuncture is an innovative and scientifically supported treatment for oncologic patients, as well as an effective palliative care option. At the Palliative Care Department of "Misericordia" Grosseto Hospital in Tuscany, real integration of acupuncture in palliative medicine has been possible. The objective of this work is to retrospectively evaluate patient treatment outcomes obtained using an integrated medical care approach administered within a palliative care unit. Methods: Medical records of onco [...]

by Suzie Jokic  , Nicole Jacqueline Albrecht  and Sue Erica Smith

Received: 15 July 2018;  Published: 23 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901004

Background: Adult learners often engage in formal education because they want to create changes in their lives and are determined to succeed in their chosen field. However, they also come with emotional "baggage" of early educational experiences, frequently have to deal with a multitude of competing demands, have financial strain, may face a lack of support, illness and/or injury. In addition, they are often dealing with the challenges of unfamiliar academic work, competing deadlines and initially lack basic academ [...]

by Naoki Ohkura  , Gen-ichi Atsumi  , Seima Uehara  , Mitsuhiro Ohta  and Masahiko Taniguchi

Received: 18 July 2018;  Published: 23 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901005

Metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition comprising a combination of glucose metabolism disorder, high blood pressure and obesity. The main underlying risk factors for metabolic syndrome are abdominal obesity and insulin resistance. Various studies have shown that herbal medicines can effectively reduce the risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Angelica keiskei Koidzumi (ashitaba), a large perennial herb native to the Southeast Pacific coast of Japan, has recently become a popular herbal medicine, dietary [...]

by Andrew Villamil  , Talya Vogel  , Elli Weisbaum  and Daniel J. Siegel

Received: 03 October 2018;  Published: 16 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901003

Research on the physiological and emotional health benefits of meditative practices has grown exponentially over the last two decades, influencing both scientific literature and popular media. Research has highlighted three distinct components or pillars at the core of meditative practices and mind training. They are, focused attention, open awareness, and kind intention. Neuroimaging studies and recent research highlight that the repeated practice of directing attention and awareness can enhance neural connections [...]

by Selma A. Augusta Quist Møller  , Sohrab Sami  and Shauna L. Shapiro

Received: 04 July 2018;  Published: 06 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901002

Background: In this study, we performed a systematic review of randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) examining the health benefits of (mindful) self-compassion-based interventions (SCBIs) and studies which explicitly combine SCBIs and mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs). Based on the compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of MBIs, we evaluated the potential use of MBIs and SCBIs to complement one another, and whether SCBIs may serve as supplementary, or preliminary interventions for individuals not fully [...]

by Randye J. Semple  and Christine Burke

Received: 20 August 2018;  Published: 04 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901001

Background: Research support for a variety of health benefits of mindfulness-based interventions for adults is robust. These include management of stress, anxiety, and depression; as a supportive treatment for eating disorders, PTSD, and psychosis; improved sleep; chronic pain management; support for tobacco, alcohol, and substance abstinence; and as adjunctive treatments for serious or chronic medical illnesses such as HIV, cancer, and heart conditions. As is typical with newer interventions, mindfulness intervent [...]

by Joseph V. Pergolizzi  , Robert Taylor  , Robert B. Raffa  and Jo Anne LeQuang

Received: 27 July 2018;  Published: 28 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804038

Background: The leaves of Mitragyna speciosa (kratom), a tropical tree that is indigenous to Southeast Asia, have been used traditionally to increase stamina, as a digestive aid, and as an analgesic. Kratom use is now increasingly popular in the rest of the world because of easy availability through the Internet and real, or perceived, views of efficacy and safety. Methods: PubMed and MedLine searches were conducted of published articles available in English. Results: Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are the pr [...]

by J. Kim Penberthy  , Dinesh Chhabra  , Nina Avitabile  , J. Morgan Penberthy  , Ngan Le  , Yiqin Roger Xu  , Seara Mainor  , Natalie Schiavone  , Paul Katzenstein  , Janet E Lewis  and Leslie Hubbard

Received: 18 April 2018;  Published: 28 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804039

Over the past few decades, there have been minimal advances in effective new behavioral or psychotherapeutic interventions for people living with autoimmune diseases such as systematic lupus erythematosus. This is problematic due to the severe, debilitating and potentially life-threatening nature of these diseases. Mindfulness based interventions, such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, have demonstrated effectiveness in a wide range of patient populations and we hypothesize such treatment would also benefit pa [...]

by Andrew Hede

Received: 27 July 2018;  Published: 23 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804037

Background: Meditation has developed over many centuries within a diverse range of religious traditions including Middle-Eastern, Indian, and East-Asian. Of these, mindfulness meditation from the Buddhist (Indian) tradition, has been the most extensively adopted in the Western secular world primarily with applications in health and well-being as pioneered by Jon Kabat-Zinn. Review: While originally developed to treat chronic pain and stress in the U.S., mindfulness training was later coupled with cognitive-behavior [...]

by Peta Stapleton  , Ulf Sandstrom  and Gunilla Hamne

Received: 12 September 2018;  Published: 22 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804036

Background: This pilot trial investigated whether a 3-week self-help model for stress reduction using the Trauma Tapping Technique (TTT) would impact traumatized youth in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on post-traumatic stress symptoms and general happiness. It also focussed on the acceptability of the program to recipients and implementation in a community with complex trauma and conflict. Methods: The study involved 77 youth who received a TTT 3-week model of intervention (self-applied). Post traumatic stre [...]

by James David Adams

Received: 14 January 2018;  Published: 19 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804035

Background: This study presents several case reports of chronic pain patients treated with two different plant medicines from the Chumash Indian tradition. Methods: Patients suffering from self-reported fibromyalgia, chronic back pain, chronic bursitis, chronic tendinitis and other conditions were treated. California sagebrush (Artemisia californica) was grown by the author and made into a liniment. The liniment was applied to painful sites on the skin. Black sage (Salvia mellifera) was made into a sun tea. Chronic [...]

by Lauren Ferguson  , Justin Cantrelle  and Paul Loprinzi

Received: 06 September 2018;  Published: 17 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804034

Background: The present study evaluates the effects of selective directed forgetting (SDF) and directed forgetting (DF) on subsequent memory retrieval and investigate whether acute exercise can facilitate the effects of SDF. Methods: A four-arm (n=20 per group; N=80; Mage=20 yrs), parallel-group, randomized controlled experiment was employed. The four groups included: 1) exercise plus SDF (Ex+SDF), 2) SDF only (SDF), 3) DF only (DF) and 4) R (remember) only (R). Participants viewed two separate word lists (list 1 a [...]

by Megan A. Roney  , Pat L. Sample  , Lorann Stallones  , Marieke Van Puymbroeck  and Arlene A. Schmid

Received: 04 November 2018;  Published: 16 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804033

Background: An adapted yoga intervention was delivered to seven individuals with chronic traumatic brain injury. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the participants' experience of engaging in the 8-week intervention. Methods: Using a phenomenological design, data were collected, analyzed, and coded to generate themes regarding experiences that occurred, how experiences occurred, and why experiences occurred. Results: Participants described experiencing the yoga intervention as a process: from ini [...]

by Nicole Thibodeaux  and Matt J. Rossano

Received: 16 July 2018;  Published: 02 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804032

As alternative forms of medicine have become increasingly popular, research on the health benefits of meditation has grown. Specifically, Mindfulness Meditation, Transcendental Meditation, and Qigong have been shown to be effective in treating psychological disorders, enhancing immune function, and in delaying disease progression in patients diagnosed with HIV, the varicella-zoster virus, and dermatomyositis. This paper briefly reviews the historical background of the many forms of meditation and examines in detail [...]

by Katarina Mark  and Maria Arman

Received: 09 June 2018;  Published: 27 November 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804031

Background: People suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS) commonly use complementary and alternative medicine due to the partial efficacy of conventional treatments, the chronic aspect of MS, the impact of pain and the side-effects of medication. An exploratory descriptive study of three cases was performed to document and analyse the experience patients treated for MS with applied kinesiology. Methods: Qualitative interviews were conducted with three patients who had been diagnosed with MS at the Neurology Departm [...]

by Megan Berberich  and Bettina Bernstein

Received: 10 March 2018;  Published: 13 November 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804030

Background: Treatment of mood and anxiety disorders with supplements, herbs and nutraceuticals (dietary supplements) is at this point viewed as an integrative or alternative treatment, however these substances have been around for quite some time and are regarded as basic to the understanding of human biochemistry, physiology, health and illness in medicine. Methods: This review article was done using a literature search utilizing the National Library of Medicine online data base and the PCOM electronic library dat [...]

by Mariya Shiyko

Received: 17 July 2018;  Published: 08 November 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804029

What is meditation? A tool that empowers you to create your life through working it from inside out, beginning with a thought. There is a story. A father had two sons: one felt a victim of life. He viewed his life through the prism of “My childhood was difficult. My father was an alcoholic. The reason my life is failing is because of that. I was not loved enough.” This is his inner mantra – a cycle of a repetitive thought patterns that he continuously told himself. His life followed that very mantra. He didn’t try [...]

by Nancy Poirier  , Serge Beaulieu  , Sybille Saury  and Sonia Goulet

Received: 24 July 2018;  Published: 05 November 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804028

Background: This study investigated variations in psychic and somatic anxiety during and after completion of MBCT compared to baseline in patients diagnosed with BD. Secondary variables considered were sleep quality and quality of life, as well as depressive and manic symptoms. Methods: HAMD-29, HAMD-7 and YMRS were administered at baseline (n=34), and every two weeks until the end of the eight-week program. PSQI (n=22) and Q-LES-Q-SF (n=29) were also administered at pre, mid- and post- MBCT assessments. Results: T [...]

by Marcus A. Henning  , Tae Joo Park  , Fiona Moir  , Chris Krägeloh  , Christopher Mysko  , Jennifer Hobson  and Craig S. Webster

Received: 25 May 2018;  Published: 26 October 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804027

Background: The purpose of this systematic review was to appraise the empirical evidence pertaining to medical students and the integration of mindfulness and physical exercise regimens. Methods: A systematic review was undertaken. Five databases were used to survey the salient literature. Results: The initial search identified 353 potentially relevant articles of which 17 articles were considered for the final review. The findings indicated that the research was mainly conducted in the USA with some research origi [...]

by Ethan G. Lester  , Amy R. Murrell  and Dickson E. Dickson

Received: 19 June 2018;  Published: 14 October 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804026

Background: Mindfulness meditation (MM) is an increasing area of interest for health professionals and the general public alike. Beneficial outcomes are associated with this practice; however, definitions of mindfulness and meditation are varied, and anecdotal accounts suggest that people hold conceptions about the constructs. Furthermore, mindfulness has been incorporated into therapeutic modalities without much consideration for context, including the client’s previous experiences with and understanding of MM. To [...]

by Marcel Allbritton  and Carrie Heeter

Received: 30 July 2018;  Published: 09 October 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804025

We propose a framework for understanding meditation that can support greater scientific rigor in reporting meditation research, and selecting meditation health interventions. There is no consistent and thorough framework for describing meditation research interventions. This impedes rigor of meditation research design and interpretation of findings. This also limits meaningful comparisons across research studies. The audience for this article includes researchers, meditation experts, healthcare professionals, and t [...]

by Paul A. Barclay  and Clint A. Bowers

Received: 27 July 2018;  Published: 07 October 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804024

(1) Background: Meditation is a common intervention for college students suffering from issues with anxiety. Due to this popularity, several meditation-based video games have been released which can be used to supplement or motivate meditation practice. However, these tools are not often given scrutiny in a laboratory setting before being released to the public. Our lab conducted a brief feasibility pilot study to investigate Meditation Deathmatch, an open-source meditation video game aimed at stimulating meditatio [...]

by Holly Hazlett-Stevens

Received: 20 April 2018;  Published: 29 September 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804023

Background: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an evidence-based intervention developed to teach mindfulness meditation to a wide range of patients. Although the efficacy of MBSR has been established for a variety of medical and psychiatric conditions, measured outcomes rarely include physical symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and/or stress. The current study presents a secondary analysis of data obtained from patients seeking MBSR for symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or other stress-related co [...]

by Michael K. McMullen

Received: 09 July 2018;  Published: 28 September 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803022

The metabolism of fructose by the liver produces uric acid and elevated serum uric acid levels are an independent risk factor for hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. Fructose occurs in fruits and fruit juices, honey as well as in the sweeteners sucrose (common white sugar) and High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS). Dietary fructose may be considered a naturally occurring toxin because it is largely metabolised by the liver with little fructose reaching the systemic blood circulation. Uric acid i [...]

by Hideya Mizuno  , Ayako Taketomi  and Toshikatsu Nakabayashi

Received: 27 June 2018;  Published: 27 September 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803021

St. John’s wort (SJW), or Hypericum perforatum, is a perennial herb that is used to treat depression in several countries. Based on the available evidence, it can be hypothesized that SJW would also have beneficial prophylactic and therapeutic effects in patients with metabolic syndrome. In this review, we summarize and discuss the best designed studies that have investigated the effects of SJW extract on adipocyte differentiation, the inflammatory process, and glucose metabolism, all of which are relevant to [...]

by Methee Phumthum  and Henrik Balslev

Received: 25 April 2018;  Published: 24 September 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803020

Background: Diabetes is a metabolic disorder and a serious global health problem. Over 400 million people suffer from diabetes and it is estimated that the number will dramatically increase in the future. The cost of diabetes treatment for individual patients is very high. However, traditional knowledge could be used to support conventional diabetes treatments. Here, we identify medicinal plants that have been used as treatments for diabetes based on Thai ethnobotanical knowledge. Methods: We present a literature r [...]

by BAGOT Jean-Lionel

Received: 31 May 2018;  Published: 15 September 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803019

Background: After fatigue, pain is one of the major complaints from cancer patients. Regular use of Class 1 analgesics may cause side effects and is not always sufficient to relieve pain. Homeopathy is the complementary and integrative medicine most frequently used in France in supportive care in oncology (SCO). What is its place in the treatment of pain? Method: Extraction and analysis of results concerning pain from three surveys, two of which were carried out in France, on the main indications of homeopathy in S [...]

by Alexandra Koulouris  , Kathleen Dorado  , Christina McDonnell  , Robert R. Edwards  and Asimina Lazaridou

Received: 27 June 2018;  Published: 05 September 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803018

Background: This paper presents a review of the evidence regarding the efficacy and impact of Yoga and mindfulness with meditation among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Patients who suffer from RA express a variety of symptoms that negatively impact their physical functioning and performance in social roles. Yoga and meditation-based therapies have been previously used to manage chronic pain conditions and other persisting disorders in affected populations. The suitability and effectiveness of these practi [...]

by Elio Rossi  , Cristina Noberasco  , Marco Picchi  , Mariella Di Stefano  , Linda Nurra  , Antonella Rossi  and Leonardo Ventura

Received: 28 March 2018;  Published: 03 September 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803017

Background: To manage the adverse effects of anti-cancer treatment, the Homeopathic Clinic of Lucca collaborated with the oncology department of the the Health Unit Toscana North West Lucca and set up an Integrative Oncology Outpatient Unit in the Public Hospital Campo di Marte. Aim: The purpose of this study was to present the results of the homeopathic and complementary integrative medicine treatment targeted at reducing the adverse effects of anti-cancer therapy and cancer symptoms, and to give dietary and lifes [...]

by Peter Morrell

Received: 06 June 2018;  Published: 23 August 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803016

This paper explores some of the conceptual issues that arise when comparing homeopathy with the mainstream medical system, both in terms of their underpinning philosophies and in their treatment methods, and especially when applied to the problem of cancer. A review is under-taken of the key concepts that underpin both medical approaches: the holistic approach of homeopathy and the reductionist approach of mainstream medicine. The article closes with a discussion of the emerging conflicts between classical homeopat [...]

by Fraser L.E. Fisher  and Aileen M. Pidgeon

Received: 10 July 2018;  Published: 21 August 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803015

Elevated levels of psychological distress in university students is a growing area of concern as it is associated with a variety of consequences including mental illness symptoms, absenteeism, and poor academic performance. A growing body of research has indicated that resilience in university students is associated with reduced psychological distress and perceived stress. The construct of resilience and the factors that contribute to its development are not well understood, hampering the development of effective i [...]

by Peta Stapleton  and Hannah Chatwin

Received: 17 May 2018;  Published: 02 July 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803014

(1) Background: Because patients vary in their response to treatment, including adherence, the effect of treatment length in the use of EFT on food cravings was examined by comparing two studies in order to ascertain if shorter programs are as effective. This may then impact treatment adherence and completion. (2) Methods: In study one, 96 overweight and obese adults were randomly allocated to a 4-week treatment for their food craving or waitlist condition. In study two, an 8-week EFT program for 47 adults, the sam [...]

by Patricia Lynn Dobkin

Received: 23 April 2018;  Published: 02 July 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1803013

Objectives: Living with any chronic pain condition is a challenge that can be met when one reduces reactivity to the sensory and evaluative aspects of it. The aim of this case study is to show how a clinical psychologist with expertise in chronic illness applied Buddhist principles to her own experience. Methods: When one realizes that suffering is the combination of pain plus resistance then one can learn how to accept rather than exacerbate it. Applying the Four Noble Truths from Buddhist psychology to understand [...]

by Im Quah-Smith

Received: 09 May 2018;  Published: 25 June 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802012

The Auricular approach to diagnostics and therapeutics has gained momentum over the last 15 years. Battlefield Acupuncture has taken on a life of its own and has been adopted into NATO and even been introduced into neonatal intensive care. It is time to take on the challenge of Auricular Medicine - the application of the neurophysiological phenomenon referred to as the Vascular Autonomic Signal or VAS to identify active ear sites in Auricular interventions. It is time to utilize the VAS in therapeutics, recognizing [...]

by Jonathan Manh Dang  , Luma Bashmi  , Stephen Meeneghan  , Janet White  , Rebecca Hedrick  , Jelena Djurovic  , Brigitte Vanle  , Dennis Nguyen  , Jonathan Almendarez  , Paula Ravets  , Yasmine Gohar  , Sophia Hanna  , Itai Danovitch  and Waguih William IsHak

Received: 28 March 2018;  Published: 25 June 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802011

Background: An increasing number of patients and practitioners are using mindfulness meditation programs despite uncertainty about the evidence supporting these programs’ health benefits. Aim: To review the current evidence on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) on depressive symptoms and quality of life (QOL) among patients with depression comorbid medical conditions and those with major depressive disorder. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and PsycINFO was performed [...]

by Katie M. Hinsey  , Karen E. Atler  , Christine A. Fruhauf  , Ruby A. Bolster  , Marieke Van Puymbroeck  and Arlene A. Schmid

Received: 07 March 2018;  Published: 11 June 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802010

Background: A fall prevention intervention was delivered to people with chronic stroke (Merged Yoga and Occupational Therapy intervention-MY-OT). All caregivers were invited to also attend the 8-week intervention and were included in these analyses. Methods: The aim of this study was to examine changes in caregiver burden, positive aspects of caring, and caregiver's experiences after participating in the MY-OT intervention. This was a secondary data analyses and the purpose of this mixed-methods study was to quanti [...]

by Alberto Dionigi

Received: 16 February 2018;  Published: 31 May 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802009

Clowning has a varied tradition and a long history. Recently, clowns have been adopted in the medical setting with the aim of decreasing the negative emotions that can be experienced during hospitalization and medical procedures, as well as inducing positive feelings in patients, their relatives, and the hospital staff. Due to an increase in the number of clowns working in hospitals and the large amount of interest shown in utilizing this approach, an increasing number of studies have focused on testing the efficac [...]

by Emily Gutierrez  and Yousef Elyaman

Received: 04 March 2018;  Published: 23 May 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802008

Lifestyle and dietary interventions can have a significant impact on patients with dyslipidemia and should be encouraged with the use of dietary supplements. With new research, there is evidence that using dietary supplements, specifically nutraceuticals can be helpful for cholesterol management. Four commonly used supplements are: Red Yeast Rice, Omega 3 Fatty Acids, Niacin and Berberine.

by Stephanie Bryan  , Maryellen Hamilton  and Elizabeth Finn

Received: 21 February 2018;  Published: 15 May 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802006

Purpose: High levels of mindfulness correspond with some positive health behaviors such as exercise participation, fruit and vegetable intake, and effective stress management. This study provided mindfulness meditation during an academic semester to a group of predominantly minority college students derived from a population in which 77.9% of the students are considered economically disadvantaged, to assess the effects of mindful meditation on various health behaviors and mindfulness to combat avoidable health ineq [...]

by Andrew Hanna  and Aileen M. Pidgeon

Received: 04 April 2018;  Published: 15 May 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802007

Objective: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have shown promise in cultivating resilience and are widely accepted as efficacious in the treatment of a range of psychological disorders. This paper explores the feasibility of a Mindful-Awareness and Resilience Skills Training (MARST) program to enhance mindfulness and resilience, as a means of increasing psychological well-being and alleviating burnout and compassion fatigue in human service professionals. Method: In this randomised control trial, 46 human servi [...]

by Fung Kei Cheng

Received: 02 March 2018;  Published: 23 April 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802005

Background: Dementia erodes the quality of life of patients and their caregivers, and the growing dementia population threatens public finance in the health and social services. In addition to formal medical treatments, complementary and alternative medicine is applicable to dementia, in which acupuncture has become an option for prevention, remedy, and rehabilitation. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical method that uses needle penetration at acupoints (specific points throughout the body which will be sti [...]

by Michael Frass

Received: 07 April 2018;  Published: 20 April 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802004

Oncology patients often suffer from the side-effects of conventional therapy, such as chemotherapy, radiation and/or surgery. Additive complementary medicine, such as homeopathy might be beneficial in the support of these patients. Several case reports as well as some studies have suggested the beneficial effects of homeopathy in cancer patients. Furthermore, homeopathy may also be helpful in improving quality of life (QoL). Homeopathic remedies also offer the advantage that they can be combined with a variety of c [...]

by Richard Sarnat

Received: 09 March 2018;  Published: 12 April 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802003

While “miraculous healings” of various disease states have been scientifically reported previously, the exact mechanism, which allow for these seeming miracles or spontaneous remissions is poorly understood. [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15] By contrast, the mechanism of action underlying the “miraculous healings” in the three case studies reported herein: Sarcoidosis, Chronic Lyme disease and Fibromyalgia seems to be understood with greater clarity, as these case reports are representative of the many hundreds [...]

by Samskruthi Menashi  , Lawrence B Cohen  and Manuela G. Neuman

Received: 10 February 2018;  Published: 28 March 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1801002

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medicinal practice. The present review includes translational research characterizing obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We reviewed published research on improving function through Ayurvedic medicine by searching electronic databases (Medline, Embase) using terms such as: Ayurveda, obesity, NAFLD, NASH, the effect of exercise interventions in obesity, change in body composition. We aim to (1) determine the immuno-pathology of [...]

by Russell Razzaque

Received: 28 January 2018;  Published: 27 March 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1801001

The value of mindfulness for clinical staff in the mental health field has thus been increasingly recognised over recent year and thus is now culminating in the evaluation and, potential future role out, of whole system approaches like Open Dialogue that put clinician mindfulness at the heart of the model. It is anticipated that this will ultimately be for the benefit of both staff and clients of these services alike, creating improvements and improving lives, therefore, on many levels.

by Gerhard Litscher

Received: 07 November 2017;  Published: 10 November 2017;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1704004

The treatment by auricular therapy has a long history. Ear acupoint research has been advancing step by step worldwide [1-17] . The introduction of lasers into medicine brought besides the already existing stimulation with needles, electricity, pressure and liquids an additional technique to auricular acupuncture.

by Steven K. H. Aung

Received: 02 May 2017;  Published: 20 July 2017;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1703003

Spirituality may be generally conceptualized as the precious, personal path of our apparently soulful vital energy within the context of the power of our compassionate consciousness. The body, mind and spirit encompasses a constantly inspiring vital energetic field that must be in diligent interaction and harmony in the interest of past, present and future generations. In the clinical application of the healing arts and sciences, as physicians or other dedicated health care providers of whatever nation, race, cultu [...]

by Fengxia Liang  , Qi Huang  , Rui Chen  , Song Wu  , Gary Lu  , Jianmin Liu  , Jia Li  , Lu Wang  , Hua Wang  and Gerhard Litscher

Received: 19 February 2017;  Published: 08 May 2017;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1702002

Qigong is a form of traditional Chinese exercise combining breathing, movement, and meditation to improve fitness for the purpose of preventing disease and prolonging life. We review the clinical efficacy and underlying mechanism of the application of Qigong in the healthcare setting. In addition, we discuss topics such as the impacts on respiratory, cardiovascular function, and immune function, as well as studies of the influences on brain function and mental health. In summary, there is strong evidence of the cli [...]

by Toshiaki Suzuki  , Makiko Tani  , Kaito Takamori  and Maki Yamada

Received: 21 January 2017;  Published: 20 February 2017;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1701001

(1) Background: Acupoint stimulation physical therapy (ASPT) is a novel method of physical therapy that combines physical and acupuncture methods. This study aimed to examine the effect of ASPT in three hemiplegic patients with cerebrovascular disease using F-wave as a measure of the excitability of spinal neural function. (2) Methods: Subjects included three hemiplegic patients with cerebrovascular disease who presented with three types of neurological findings. All patients had moderate hypertonic muscles on the [...]

by Bo Pang  , Qi Zhang  , Guang-Yu Cheng  , Wei-Ping Cheng  , Daniela Litscher  , Lu Wang  , Zemin Sheng  , Ingrid Gaischek  , Zhong-Ren Sun  and Gerhard Litscher

Received: 08 June 2016;  Published: 23 August 2016;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1601003

(1) Background: Within this study, we assessed the effects of acupuncture on heart rate variability (HRV) in Chinese post-stroke patients. (2) Methods: In 30 Chinese post-stroke patients (14 f, 16 m; mean age ± SD 64.3 ± 3.8 years; range 40 - 80 years) electrocardiographic signals before, during and after acupuncture at the left Weizhong acupoint (BL40) were recorded in Harbin and analyzed in Graz using teleacupuncture via internet. HRV data were analyzed in the time and frequency domain and a protoco [...]

by Daniela Litscher  and Gerhard Litscher

Received: 24 May 2016;  Published: 17 August 2016;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1601002

The present report deals with some current important aspects of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) education and practice in Europe and China. The data and facts are based on a lecture of one of the authors (G.L.) prepared for a conference in Wuhan about acupuncture education in Europe, and lectures of two high-ranking representatives of renowned Chinese institutions (State Administration of TCM and Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin). In addition to current figures regarding TCM in general, the ad [...]

by Gerhard Litscher

Received: 27 May 2016;  Published: 15 August 2016;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1601001

Integrative and Complementary Medicine (ICM-OBM) is an international peer-reviewed, open-access journal which covers all evidence-based scientific studies on integrative and complementary approaches to improving health and quality of life. Integrative and complementary medicine comprises science-oriented “university” or academic medicine, but also experience-based medicine with all its complementary methods. It is not a special field in itself, but a signal for an all-encompassing medicine, open-minded about the p [...]