Homoeopathy in integrative management of reduced left ventricular ejection fraction

Abstract

Background: Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is the central measure of left ventricular systolic function. It is one of the most useful tools to evaluate cardiac diseases. Heart failure with a reduced ejection fraction affects more than 50% of individuals. This subject is inadequately documented in Homoeopathy. This case study intends to create evidence-based documentation and generate the hypothesis that Homoeopathy can treat these potentially fatal illnesses. Case Summary: A 33-year-old female presented with complaints of palpitation, dyspnoea on least exertion and pain in both upper and lower limbs with associated numbness extending downwards for three months. She had a low pulse rate of 44–46 beats/min. As per echocardiography report, she had severely reduced LVEF (25%). Following the principles of Homoeopathy, Kalmia latifolia was prescribed in 50-millesimal potency. The patient was advised to continue her conventional medication schedule. The subjective evaluation was done using Outcome Related to Impact on Daily Living (ORIDL) scale, which improved gradually. Her pulse rate also increased to 74 beats/min with a regular sinus rhythm. Echocardiography reports are presented as objective evidence, where 50% enhancement of LVEF was recorded. Modified Naranjo Criteria for Homeopathy (MONARCH) established (score +8) the likelihood of improvement between the given intervention and the clinical outcome of the patient. Here, in addition to conventional medicine, Kalmia latifolia in 50-millesimal potency from 0/1 to 0/12 was found to be useful and efficiently managed to show results within six months. Further documentation of this integrated approach is warranted in the future.