29/10/2026
Lymphatic filariasis is a major public health burden, particularly in endemic regions, with millions suffering from chronic lymphoedema and hydrocele. Effective morbidity management remains a significant challenge.
Researchers recently published a paper investigating the value of homeopathy in managing lymphoedema.
Methods:This open-label, exploratory, interventional study, conducted at the Regional Research Institute for Homoeopathy, Puri, Odisha, India, aimed to evaluate the effects of individualized homoeopathic medicines in managing grade III/IV unilateral/bilateral lower-limb lymphoedema associated with lymphatic filariasis. Outcomes included changes in limb circumference (Australasian Lymphology Association standards), limb volume (Water Displacement Method), health-related quality of life (7D5L scale), dermatological changes (Dermatology Life Quality Index), acute adenolymphangitis episodes, skin health, and serological markers over one year. A total of 104 eligible participants were enrolled, and followed-up monthly for one year. 61 participants dropped out of the study, and 43 participants successfully completed all the follow-ups.
Results: Statistically significant improvements were observed in quality of life and dermatological indices (p-value < 0.0001), along with alleviation of limb volume. Decreased Og4C3 and TNF-α levels, resolution of entry lesions and ulcers, and reduction in occurrence of fungal infections were documented.
Discussion: The study demonstrated the potential benefits of homoeopathy in managing advanced filarial lymphoedema by improving quality of life. Further controlled studies with larger sample are warranted.
Source: Suhana PA, Shruti JV, Choudhury S, Gupta J, Guddattu V, Sahoo PK, Sehgal C, Bhandari P, Das M, Varamballi P and Kaushik S (2026) Evaluating the impact of homoeopathy in managing the morbidity associated with grade III and IV lower limb lymphoedema in adults with lymphatic filariasis. Front. Parasitol. 5:1939673. doi: 10.3389/fpara.2026.1939673
