Assessing the feasibility of homeopathic interventions for metabolic syndrome: A prospective study

Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a global public health concern closely linked to rising obesity rates. It encompasses metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidaemia and hypertension, significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and type 2 diabetes. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of homoeopathic medicines in managing patients with MetS having high triglyceride (TG) levels and reducing their cardiovascular risk. Material and Methods: A non-randomised prospective clinical study was conducted at the outpatient department of Government Homoeopathic Medical College, Kozhikode, with 30 participants fulfilling the diagnostic criteria. The participants were administered homoeopathic remedies based on symptom similarity. All cases were followed up for 6 months from initiating of treatment. The assessment was based on the change in total scores of assessment parameters, changes in the Framingham risk score and atherogenic index before and after treatment analysed using statistical tests. Results: A higher prevalence of MetS was noted in men and the 40–50 age groups. Sedentary lifestyles and a family history of diabetes, hypertension and CVD were common among participants. Most participants followed a non-vegetarian diet. Significant positive changes were observed in parameters such as body mass index, waist circumference, TG levels, fasting blood sugar, systolic blood pressure and high-density lipoprotein levels. However, there was no significant improvement in diastolic pressure. The observed reduction in both the Framingham risk score and the atherogenic index of plasma due to the intervention is a significant and promising finding. Conclusion: Homoeopathic medicines appeared effective in managing MetS and reducing its cardiovascular risk. While these results are promising, further research is needed to understand the mechanisms involved and establish guidelines for integrating homoeopathic treatments into conventional care for patients with MetS.