Comparative Clinical Evaluation of Bryonia Alba vs. Arsenicum Album in Acute Bronchitis: A Randomized Clinical Study

This randomized comparative study evaluated the clinical efficacy of Bryonia alba and Arsenicum album in the management of acute bronchitis. Eighty patients aged 20 to 60 years were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group A received Bryonia alba 30C, and Group B received Arsenicum album 30C, each administered thrice daily for seven days. Clinical assessment was done using a Bronchitis Symptom Score (BSS), including cough, sputum production, dyspnea, and fatigue. Mean BSS reduction was greater in the Bryonia group (78.4%) than in the Arsenicum group (71.2%), indicating a significant difference (p < 0.05). Both remedies were well tolerated without adverse effects. The study concludes that Bryonia alba is slightly more effective for dry, painful coughs with chest pain and less dyspnea, while Arsenicum album is preferable for restless and anxious patients with a burning sensation. Homoeopathy offers safe and symptom-specific management for acute bronchitis in community practice.