This issue represents the first time that the journal has contained an article that goes beyond our traditional scope of homeopathy-only contributions. In November 2023 we announced that peer-review was being extended to submissions in which homeopathy has been studied in the context of integrative care or used alongside other whole-person therapies such as acupuncture or herbal medicine. Enhancement of the journal's scope also to homeopathy as part of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy)[1] is reflected in this issue's paper by Chaudhary and colleagues, who used AYUSH medicines as prophylaxis during the first wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.[2] Their paper is notable for the huge scale of the study, involving clinical data collection in 21 cities across India, and by its main finding that previous intake of homeopathic or Siddha medicines was associated with some protection against moderate/severe illness and a quicker clinical recovery. As the COVID-19 pandemic proceeded, reaching its third main wave in India in January 2022, the range of typical disease symptoms had evolved. Manchanda et al. note these changes, along with the most frequently indicated homeopathic medicines, in their new Original Research article.[3]

The present issue is notable also for its inclusion of an article that outlines the protocol for a randomised clinical trial.[4] Publication in a journal brings the prospective research into sharper view than solely by its registration in a public-domain clinical trials registry. Valuable investigations with less tightly controlled study designs characterise the subsequent pages of this issue: a case-control study examining the association between acute and chronic inflammatory states in the context of homeopathic treatment,[5] a clinical outcomes analysis of homeopathically treated patients with chronic conditions,[6] and a case series of individuals with sickle cell disorder who come from a particularly vulnerable tribal group in India that is genetically predisposed to the disease.[7] Following those papers is a case series report of a very different nature: the homeopathic veterinary treatment of traumatic myiasis in sheep.[8] In the form of a letter to the editor, a critical appraisal of a recent publication on the pharmacoeconomics of homeopathic medicines completes this 113th annual volume of Homeopathy.[9]

Sharp-eyed readers of our print issues will have noticed a striking recent addition to the journal owners' logo on the front cover: the Faculty of Homeopathy has secured the patronage of His Majesty King Charles III. This distinctive honour reflects The King's continuing recognition of the Faculty's key roles in promoting and supporting the highest standards of practice, education and – via this journal – research in homeopathy.

Article published online:
21 October 2024

© 2024. Faculty of Homeopathy. This article is published by Thieme.

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